Reviewed by phyllish on
Full of intrigue, The Songbird and the Spy follows Claire into occupied France as her family is torn from her and she finds herself alone, trying to escape so she can return to America.
I really liked the character of Michael. He was full of integrity, and yet everything about him was a lie. How's that for a contradiction! Full of poise, his quick thinking got him out of more than one dangerous situation.
The French resistance and the Frenchmen simply trying to survive were an integral part of this story. Little pieces of the hardships they endured at the hands of the Germans were shown - the many ways they had to do without. I never really thought about the callousness of the German soldiers in frequenting the taverns run by the very people they were oppressing. Hmm.
The story was full of twists and turns and intrigue. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, something else did!
I was unaware of Churchill's SOE (Special Operations Executive) forces until now. The sacrifices these men made in their attempt to thwart the advances of the Germans is so admirable! I'm so glad the author shared their story here.
While a story of war and oppression, it is full of hope. There is very little violence - that which is here is not described in detail. My one cautionary note is to not use the translate feature on your Kindle for every foreign phrase used. One phrase I translated contained a word considered inappropriate in polite company. . .
Aside from the above caution, I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading WWII fiction with a hint of inspirational romance added.
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I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- Finished reading
- 4 April, 2019: Reviewed