The Book of Lost Names: The novel Heather Morris calls 'a truly beautiful story'

A classic historical romance set in the Second World War in France. The central character has Polish ancestry, raised as a Jew and finds herself involved in forgery helping the French resistance following the capture of her father by the Narzis. Not a particularly original storyline but then I have read a large number of war based historical romances. The characters were appealing and relatable and the story realistic. I wouldn’t classify this as a dual timeline as the modern day input is very sparse and not very involved; it’s more like the narrator pops in occasionally to piece together the story so far. For that reason I can’t put it up there with the best historical romances I have read. It just isn’t sophisticated enough in the flipping storyline; the modern day section would need more development and more intriguing intertwining to hit the top spot. That said a well researched sweet classic tale of war time romance.

Just finished this and would really recommend it. It tells of a group of life savers in world War 2 whom I hadn’t really thought about before.It was their skill and courage that enabled so many children and adults to escape to freedom but this book breathes life into their activities and examines their emotional involvement as well as dedication and skill. It is page turning, well written and the book of names containing the codes to record the real names of the saved children is the central core that draws characters and plot together.

I do not want give too much away but as an overall read,this book is up there with the best.Not only is the story fantastic but the author is one of the most talented writers I have read in a long time.I cannot believe how young she is to be able to write like this.Thankyou for such a great read and also knowledge that not alot know.Kristin you are amazing and I look forward to reading more or your writing.An absolute must read.This book will stay with me forever.

If you read this expecting to find out what it was like in occupied France during the 2nd world war you will be disappointed. I lost count of the number of times the heroine 'blinked back tears' and her detailed thoughts about her guilt and feelings dominated the pages.

Unbelievably boring. Predictable and badly written. I give up with these reviews. How did this book get 4 plus stars?