The Girl from the Train provides something a bit different than many of the WWII novels I’ve read in the recent past. In terms of geography, the settings are primarily Poland and South Africa. While both lands are richly described, I felt I learned a lot about the terrain and culture of South Africa during the period. I appreciated the details that made it very obvious that the author had thoroughly researched the war as it related to the specific people and places described in the book. The story itself contains many smaller stories and themes that are seamlessly woven in throughout the book.
I found the characters to be likable enough but perhaps too perfect. Based on the description of the book, I hadn’t expected it to be so romance-heavy. I appreciate that there are lots of people out there who really love to read romance but it’s just not my thing. I think the book could have had the same good ending without quite as much love drama.
While I can say I’m glad I read this book, and I enjoyed it, I wouldn’t say it’s one of my favorite WWII novels. Two that come to mind that I’d recommend if you are interested in reading about that period are The Paris Architect and The True Story of Hansel and Gretel.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson via NetGalley for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My rating: 3 stars
You are the second person I’ve seen review this book. I was intrigued at the first review, but now that you mentioned it’s rather romance-heavy I’m not quite so thrilled. It’s a shame so many authors feel the need to put their characters in relationships. Or make romance and love such a focus. But that’s one of my weird pet peeves.