The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

I absolutely loved this book. The storytelling was amazing, the storyline flowed smoothly and wasn't confusing or dragged on and the characters were very likeable. I hated finishing this book because then I knew it was over. I recommend this book to anyone who says they want to start getting into reading.

Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah is a phenomenal story of two sisters and their harrowing journeys to survive World War 2. Such a beautifully written story about such an ugly time in our history. Even as a historical fiction it was so emotionally charged with powerful storytelling keeping you engaged through the entire book. I didn’t want to put it down. By far my favorite book that I have read this year.

I am going to need days to recover from this book. I’ve never put off sleep more than I did when reading this, because I could not put it down. WWII novels/stories are heart wrenching. They are beautiful in a way you would never expect, while reading about such brutality and horror. K. Hannah did such an incredible job, weaving words and stories together to bring this masterpiece to life. I sobbed often, and my heart shattered at every turn.

First, I need to say that some of my nitpicking may not be fair because I have an advanced degree in history and this is a historical FICTION book. However, there were MANY historical inaccuracies that should not have been in there and I believe it was simply a matter of not enough research on the time period and subject matter- WWII, occupied France and the French Resistance. In essence, this book is about what it’s like being a woman during war. The story centers around two sisters who each take very different paths. I did end up caring about the sisters, but I think there could have been more descriptive scenery and it bears repeating- more research because the author uses things like antibiotics and shower curtains, while showing she doesn’t truly understand how ... MoreFirst, I need to say that some of my nitpicking may not be fair because I have an advanced degree in history and this is a historical FICTION book. However, there were MANY historical inaccuracies that should not have been in there and I believe it was simply a matter of not enough research on the time period and subject matter- WWII, occupied France and the French Resistance. In essence, this book is about what it’s like being a woman during war. The story centers around two sisters who each take very different paths. I did end up caring about the sisters, but I think there could have been more descriptive scenery and it bears repeating- more research because the author uses things like antibiotics and shower curtains, while showing she doesn’t truly understand how the French Resistance worked nor how the French lived and survived during that time. Knowing that kind of ruined the book for me. It’s still a top 100 box and going to be made into a movie staring Dakota and Elle Fanning. I never say this, but I’ll probably enjoy the movie far more than the book. It has so many 5 star reviews that, as I said in the beginning, I feel I’m just nitpicking, but I honestly feel the writer could have done this book and the characters far more Justice.

Best Read

The best book I read of 2023. It was incredibly written and dual perspectives keeps you captivated the entire story. The author does an amazing job bringing the story full circle. This book left me wanting nothing more. It’s a true masterpiece that I cherish. I recommend everyone read it

Best book

Best book I have read in 2023 if not best book ever. Though it is thick, it was a quick read. Loved the characters and learning a few new things about WW2 as well. I recommend it to everyone. It’s the educational emotional rollercoaster I didn’t know I needed but will keep this book in my personal library forever

Disappointing

This used book was not at all in good shape as was promoted in the description; fair condition would be more accurate. The cover and pages were warped as though the book had gotten wet at some point and one corner of the book was chewed (by a family pet, perhaps?). Anyway, it was not much cheaper than a brand new copy would have cost, so I expected a book that was in much better condition. Not really worth it just to save a couple of bucks.

Heartbreaking masterpiece

This was one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. Although this is a fiction novel of two sisters during the Holocaust era, you know this was the reality of many women. Fiction inspired by true, heartbreaking realities. Everyone needs to read!

Once in a generation must read!

I absolutely loved this book. It is my favorite of Kristen Hannah’s books. I read it in ONE day! I couldn’t put it down. Tremendous character development, historical insight that almost transports a person to that time period. Tender, and heartbreaking at times. I cried at least 4 times. Beautiful story of love, family, selflessness and friendship and the commitment to the four, even in the most astonishingly difficult times. I will be reading it again!!!

Such a beautiful & heartfelt book.

I adore this book. It’s a little slow at first but eventually pulls you right in and you won’t want to put it down. A beautiful and heartfelt story that really got me back into reading after not picking up a book for many years. Highly recommend! Also, can we just talk about how STUNNING the cover is?!