A – Z Book Reviews

Kristin Hannah writes primarily Fiction and Historical Fiction novels, though I tend to lean a bit more towards her Historical Fiction. Her novels with settings in the present day are every bit as engaging, I just tend to favor the bits and pieces of history lessons she offers in the Historical Fictions. I find myself learning little tad bits of information in many of her novels, and I really enjoy that aspect.

My absolute favorite of hers is The Nightingale. This is a story of World War II heroes and the incredible journey of a few very brave individuals. It was not just another World War II novel focused on a historical romance in an unlikely time. It took you into the lives of Vianne and Isabelle, two sisters living in Paris when the Nazis invaded and overran their home. It introduced Isabelle’s decision to join the underground while living alongside the Nazis. It revealed the danger, the heartache and the harsh truth of standing up against the Nazi Regime. I was at the edge of my seat through the entire book; the writing style and verbiage used to describe the lives of the women who are trapped in the warzone were captivating.

Another Historical Fiction of Kristin’s that is worth mentioning is Winter Garden. This looks at the Russian front during World War II, and those that were trapped behind the Iron Curtain at the worst of times. It is a story of past and present that is told from the standpoint of a woman who escaped the Russian borders with half her heart missing. It tells her story in a way that makes your heart break for her and also teaches a bit about what the Russian people overcame during this time period.

Some of Kristin’s best Fiction Novels to mention that are a bit closer to present day are Firefly Lane and Home Front. Firefly Lane was actually turned into a Netflix special; but I much preferred the book (per usual!). It is a story of an unlikely friendship that spans a lifetime. It is funny, light-hearted and just a generally entertaining novel. It was nothing revolutionary, but it was engaging. If you are looking for more of a “light read”, this is a good one! Home Front takes on a different tone and is a bit more serious in nature. It brings you into the life of a woman marine who tries to balance career and family. Stress, pride, joy, and guilt seem to plague most working moms, and this book depicts the scene wonderfully. A marine is dangerous work, and the danger comes to fruition in this novel. It’s the story of a family overcoming tragedy and learning to be stronger from it.

My least favorite novel I have read of Kristin’s would have to be Between Sisters. This was simply a book that wasn’t capturing in any way. I struggled to make it through the entire novel. If it weren’t for my dedication to Kristin, I would have stopped half-way through the book, simply because I wasn’t intrigued. This would never be my first recommendation for a book of hers simply because it does not offer much excitement. At least not in the way some of her other books were brought to life through their diction, character development and plot lines.

Kristin Hannah has an impressive list of novels, almost all of which I would consider above average. At least 3 of her novels are in my top 20 reads of all time. Only a small handful fall into my “less than perfect, I won’t recommend it” list. Any time I hear Kristin has a new release, I am at the edge of my seat waiting to snatch it up!