“Death is everywhere, but so is life.”

Vera and Edith were friends who should have been sisters. They lived across from each other in Budapest and when their families were rounded up to be taken to concentration camps, they managed to escape together. They faced loneliness, cold and hunger during a year of hiding and now that the war is over, they have to decide what their future holds – but they’ll do it together.

The Light After the War won’t be released until Feb. 4, 2020, but I was able to get an advanced copy through NetGalley. I love reading historical fiction, so I jumped at the chance to read an advanced copy. The plot sounded intriguing with two women trying to rebuild their lives after WWII.

First, the girls end up in Naples and have to find jobs. They moved away from Hungary because both believed no one in their families survived the war, including Edith’s fiancé. In Naples, they both find distractions with work and love. Vera works for the American embassy and wants to write. Edith dreams of being a fashion designer while working as a seamstress. As secrets are uncovered and love goes awry, the girls fight to stay together.

The Light After the War is a interesting read about the time after WWII and gives insight into how people worked to put their lives back together. The plot is captivating, but the characters at times feel a bit flat. I enjoyed reading the story and lovers of historical fiction will enjoy reading The Light After the War.

Do you think you’d be interested in reading The Light After the War? Comment on the blog!

Buy The Light After the War here (affiliate link). Preorder until Feb. 4, 2020.