As I finish up the sequel to Bianca’s Vineyard (to be released this fall), I want to send out a big mille grazie to my readers.  Your encouragement and the stories you’ve shared with me over the last few months have strengthened me in ways you can’ t imagine and have greatly enriched my life.  And to those of you who recommended books for me to read, this is an update.  I am reading them!  Two short reviews follow:

FRANCA’S STORY by Diane Kinman               

This book truly hit home for me, as Franca Mercati Martin lived in the same area as the Bertozzi and Sigali families.  The book, though not written by Franca herself, still reads like her memoir.  Her recollections of WWII as a child – the deaths, the fear, the destruction — are riveting.  They left me in awe of the human spirit and in awe of Franca, a hero in the true sense of the word.  This book can be appreciated by men and women alike, and by all ages.

SARAH’S KEY by Tatiana de Rosnay

So many of my readers suggested I read Sarah’s Key, and told me that Bianca’s Vineyard reminded them of it, that I finally bought it.  Having just finished it last night, I must say it was excellent, but also emotionally challenging because it dealt with some of the youngest victims of the Holocaust.  You could say there were nights I was “haunted” by visions of what happened.  Based on the true story of the infamous Val’ d’Hiv’  roundup of Jews in Paris during the Occupation, this book is a sober reminder that as long as there is evil in the world, none of us can rest.

These books are a reminder that the events of WWII – the most destructive conflict in history — continue to impact the world.  Books and movies relating to that era — Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, and Inglorious Basterds, to name a few — are still so compelling they are blockbuster hits.  I was struck by the fact that WWII historical fiction includes the same elements of drama as the most well researched documentary: good vs. evil, rampant persecution of the vulnerable, fear, intimidation, huge refugee movements and displacement of citizens.  In fact, a WWII story would not be complete without showing how individuals caught up in this global conflict rose to the challenges placed before them and why they made the choices they did.

Do check out  “99 Fascinating Facts about WWII” at http://facts.randomhistory.com/world-war-ii-facts.html .  After reading them, I realized it was no wonder I’m a sucker for WWII historical fiction!

I’ll be keeping you up-to-date on the sequel, and when you can expect it to see it hit the shelves.

Until next time, enjoy every moment of every day as much as it is possible, and keep the book recommendations coming!  You’re the best!!