I'm a big fan of dual timelines, but dual timelines written skillfully are few and far between. Thankfully, Angela Petch did not disappoint; she constructed a lovely narrative that allows the reader to vacillate easily between time periods. In addition, she created a story ripe with vivid imagery and characters that warm readers' hearts.
I just love how Ms. Petch encourages her audience to immediately connect with the protagonist from page one. Billy, a gunner in the Royal Air Force, is struck with amnesia after being shot down over Puglia, Italy. Written in first-person, his disorientation and frustration are palpable as he navigates his new reality. The end result to this particular story is so honest and genuine, you'll have to read to understand.
It isn't until Chapter 5 that Susannah is introduced. I love that she wrote this present-day story in third person; it really delineates the two timelines, allowing no room for confusion. And I felt just as invested in this story as I did in 1945.
Ms. Petch did a great job in creating authentic love stories and an engaging secret that must be uncovered. She also reconciled the two timelines perfectly.
WWII is always my favorite Historical Fiction time frame. There are so many stories to be told, so many places affected, so much heartache to share and Angela Petch truly excelled in bringing this story to life.
This was a story of the paths that we take and the bonds we create, and the beauty of all that lies in-between.
Thanks a ton @theliterateleprechaun for convincing me to pick up this story (her reviews are always SO good that she inevitably adds to my TBR).
Read 6/15/22
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