The Nightingale

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

In the past month, I was given three books by three dear friends. Each has left a lasting impression. Having just finished the first, I highly recommend it and Goodreads voted it “Best Historical Novel of the Year.” The Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah, is set in France during World War II. 

The novel is loosely based on true stories of several women who dared defy the Nazi regime. Two sisters with opposite temperaments think the worst of each other while dealing with the evils of war. They’re both forced to make hard choices that determine the outcome of their lives. The younger one is rash, impetuous, and reckless. For her, rules are meant to be broken and she speaks her mind while holding an anger from lack of love in her childhood. The older is quiet and careful, always following the rules. She plays it safe, until safety is no longer an option.

In the end, both sisters gravely underestimate each other but risk their lives to boldly love their neighbors as best they can. Neither knows the sacrifice the other is making. I found myself wanting to shout warnings at the characters as they misjudged each other and their enemies.

I was left wondering what I would do if put in the same circumstances, which is always a healthy question to ponder while watering the garden. I may get to ask again as it’s being made into a movie.

Until next week,

Kate