I adore reading books set during major historical events because the backdrop is often more moving and exciting than most other novels. This book however is dull. It is slow right from the start, the only reason i continued reading was the thought that something exciting must happen, some deep family secret - but there was nothing. The author has added too many pointless characters with confusing names, so you can never remember who is who. The only positive thing that I can say about this book is that it did very well in highlighting the plight of the Czech people during the war. A good book to read before bed if you're looking to be sent to sleep.