The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Diane chose the book and hosted the discussion, serving vegan vegetable soup with French bread, salad with French dressing, fruit salad, and moist apple cake.

SPOILER ALERT: This recap contains spoilers to the book.

Most members of our group liked this book very much. It is the story of two sisters, Isabelle and Vianne, who endured the occupation of France during WWII. Though very different from one another in temperament, they both proved to be heroes in their own right. We discussed with which of these two women we could most identify and, if in a similar situation, would we be able to muster the strength these women displayed. We decided that we could not possibly know how we would react in similar circumstances but, as mothers, did understand Vianne's overwhelming drive to protect her daughter, Sophie.

We talked about how war can bring about change in one's demeanor and behavior, citing the girls' father as an example. We also discussed how women's courage and contributions are overlooked in most history books, appreciating that this book focused on the important role of women during war times. We acknowledged that the success of these two women was, in part, due to Germans thinking women incapable of success in covert operations.

The book began and ended with an elderly woman who attended a WWII reunion, but who was not identified until the end of the book. It turned out to be Vianne. Unlike her sister, she survived to live to an old age, outliving her devoted daughter, and was dedicated to her son, Julien, who tenderly looked after his mother not knowing anything of her past. We discussed whether or not Vianne should tell him about his parentage, and most thought that was best kept secret.

We agreed that this book was a tear jerker, especially with the loss of Sarah and when young Ali was yanked away from the only family he knew, and even more so when he was reunited with the woman who had saved his young life. The book had unexpected twists, like when the elder Julien was revealed to also be fighting for the cause and the ultimate sacrifice he made to save his daughter. We appreciated the love Gaetan had for Isabelle and were saddened that they could not live happily ever after.

Again, this book was very well-liked by most, It was a complete package because it was suspenseful, made us both laugh and cry, and was a poignant love story. It was a story of hope in the midst of dire circumstances.

Author's website: http://kristinhannah.com/books/the-nightingale/