Review by kadinkins14 -- Code Name Lily by Julien Ayotte

kadinkins14 · Post by **kadinkins14** » 05 Dec 2019, 19:47

[Following is a volunteer review of "Code Name Lily" by Julien Ayotte.]

3 out of 4 stars

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Code Name Lily by Julien Ayotte offers a glimpse into the hardships faced by Belgian citizens as they rebel against German authority in World War II by helping downed Allied pilots escape to safe territory while avoiding capture. Through a network known as the Comet Line these citizens risked their lives and the lives of their families by hiding and stealthily guiding the stranded pilots across dangerous terrain from Belgium into France and then into Spain. This fictional account of these resistance fighters and the pilots they saved are based on true stories and are supported by historical facts.

The beginning of the novel begins with a modern day discovery of hidden World War II medals and a love letter in a closet that was once owned by a veteran of World War II. These prestigious medals were stowed away in a secret room that was found when the current owners were renovating their house. The son of the medal recipient was contacted and he discovered that his father, Gerard Papineau, was one of the downed airmen that was saved by a female Belgian resistance fighter after he parachuted out of an injured plane. During his time in Belgium evading capture he meets Lily and they had fall in love during their journey to Spain. The story then flashbacks to World War II and tells the story of how these brave women and men actually managed their incredible feats.

I would give this novel a 3 out of 4 stars. I thought the novel was well researched and the author did a phenomenal job of telling the stories of these resistance fighters that risked so much for the safety of so many airmen. I found their stories to be truly inspirational and they made me wonder if I have the bravery, strength, and perseverance that these citizens displayed in the face of great adversity. I appreciated that the ending described what happened to each of the characters after World War II. I also enjoyed that the novel concluded with Gerard Papineau’s casket being moved to Arlington Cemetery and his family receiving closure on the mystery that surrounded Mr. Papineau and his relationship with Lily.

My only complaint regarding this novel is that it was hard to follow at times. The chapters jumped around to various characters at different times in their journeys and I often felt like I wasn’t sure of who I was reading about or where they were. A remedy to this problem would be to begin each chapter with a header such as “Lily-Baztan Valley, Belgium, April 2nd, 1942.” This would help clarify the questions regarding the who, when, and where of the chapter. The Belgian and French names often confused me too, although that is not the fault of the author but simply of my unfamiliarity of those languages.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction that is based on true stories will love this novel. I think anyone that is even remotely interested in World War II history will also find themselves intrigued by the story of these brave women and men. It is a well-written story that is full of history with a little romance and mystery tossed in.

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Code Name Lily
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Rayasaurus · Post by **Rayasaurus** » 12 Jan 2020, 19:44

I love well-researched historical fiction, so I'd probably enjoy this book! I'm also interested in WW2, so I'll have to add it to my list. Thank you for the review!

Roger Glasgow · Post by **Julius_** » 26 Jan 2020, 09:28

I enjoy historical fiction based on true stories, so I'll take a look at this one. Thanks for the review and recommendation.

kdstrack · Post by **kdstrack** » 30 Jan 2020, 21:40

The author's research comes through in the story. I appreciated your reference to the closure for the family. This looks fascinating! Thanks for the recommendation.