3 out of 4 stars
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The terrors of living in France under German occupation during World War II challenge the Cannet family in The Women of Saint Germain: Tour of Duty. Author C. Claire Lucka tells the tale of a young woman and her family as they face the hardships brought upon the people of France by the German army.
Simone Cannet lives in rural France with her father, mother, and three sisters on their family farm. She has plans to get a job in Paris and live with her aunt, once she is through with school. However, her family home becomes occupied by German Officers that seem to have inappropriate intentions with her young sisters. Simone’s father and her best friend join the French Resistance and often go out on dangerous secret missions. With life completely changed, Simone, her sisters, and their mother find strength that they never knew they had to protect themselves and their property. The Cannet family experiences moments of fear, betrayal, love, loss, and triumph that will either bring the family closer together or tear them apart forever.
This story is loosely based on the life of the author’s family. The love and admiration she feels for her family shines through in this novel. Each character is beautifully developed with their own unique flaws and personality. I was emotionally invested in the family’s story. Simone’s mother is strong and brave as she does whatever it takes to protect her children. Simone’s sisters are bright and likable young girls. I was terrified for them as they were constantly on guard while living with the German Officers. These men were disrespectful and a perpetual threat to the family’s safety and well-being.
I enjoy true and fictional stories set during World War II. Historical fiction is always my first choice, and this book did not disappoint. There is a perfect balance of dramatic storytelling and conveyance of historical facts. Readers of romance and historical fiction will enjoy this book.
I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars. There are two minor grammar errors in the book. Many of the dramatic storylines were rushed. More detail would have added to the reader’s emotional ties to the characters. Nonetheless, this is a well-written story with likable heroes and detestable villains. The Women of Saint Germain: Tour of Duty highlights the importance of a close family and the determination to fight in the face of unimaginable fear.
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The women of saint germain
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