Germany, 1944. The Red Army is advancing through Eastern Prussia, occupying cities and villages, and forcing civilians to flee. Among them there are Annie and Werner, two teens whose love story gets interrupted when Werner is drafted. From then on, they struggle to survive as the political landscape changes.

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This story spans decades, and it will keep you enthralled for hours. I loved Annie and Werner from the start, and although their journey is not an easy one, Oppenlander does a wonderful job bringing it to life. There were a few moments that brought tears to my eyes, and I couldn't help but keep hoping that the two lovers wrenched apart so suddenly and cruelly by war would once again find each other. I have to admit, this wasn't always easy to read, but does bring to light some lesser known atrocities committed during the war. If you're looking for an emotional historical fiction with an underlying thread of lost loves trying to find each other, then you've found the perfect book. ( )