This novel tells the story of Vivienne de la Mare, wife and mother of two, during Nazi occupied Guernsey. It is the dawn of World War II and Vivienne's husband is away fighting while she is left to head the family, looking after her two daughters and her mother-in-law on this tranquil island in the English Channel. As Vivienne begins to adapt to the sacrifices required by the forces of war, she realizes that food shortages and curfews may be the least of her concerns when German soldiers move into the house next door, and one in particular catches her eye. Gunther is a dark soldier who is both mysterious and familiar. As Vivienne begins to spend time with this stranger, she craves him with every part of her being. But loving Gunther and protecting her family begin to seem mutually exclusive and Vivienne must decide what matters to her most.
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Best part of story, including ending:
I really liked this story because it shows how feelings and emotions are sometimes stronger than logic. Every part of Vivienne was hesitant of getting involved with Gunther but in his presence something strong than her guided her judgement.
Best scene in story:
My favorite scene is them in the yard after dark beneath the apple tree. He is smoking a cigar and the sweetness of apples permeate the air around them. The scene is so vivid. The author conjured all of the senses at once and Vivienne's attraction for Gunther is palpable although she is doing everything in her power to fight it.
Opinion about the main character:
I liked Vivienne's sense of adventure the most. It seemed that she had the world on her shoulders when the restrictions started being enforced after the occupation, but she managed to let herself feel emotions that she hadn't felt for years. I admired her for taking a chance on love.
