The Nightingale is a Historical Fiction novel set in World War 2. This book is written with a dual perspective of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, about their experience throughout the War. In 440 pages Kristin Hannah shows us how “In love we find out who we want to be. In war we find out who we are.”
Vianne and Isabelle are presented as polar opposites. However, as the story evolves, we discover how that might not be the case after all. Kristin does a wonderful job at developing both the characters and the story though vivid writing that leaves you hooked on every word. I especially loved the book due to its major themes of chosen family, inner strength, self discovery.
At the beginning, I found myself rooting for one sister more than the other and wasn’t sure where the story would go. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I was missing the entire point. The duality of siblings is fascinating; just because they’re different in personalities doesn’t make one better than the other. This book made me cry, laugh, and smile separately and sometimes all at once. Despite all the heartbreaking moments they faced, I left feeling inspired and proud of the two sisters strength and loyalty.
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