I've read a lot of war books, but never one from an artist's perspective. This book was so lovingly and beautifully written, even in the horrific and grizzly descriptions of battle and death the author approaches with great care and respect. It's a wonderful tribute to both his grandfather and the Belgians who lived and died at that time.

This was a really satisfying read. I think if Tracy Chevalier and Neil Gaiman ever collaborate it would turn out something like this. I loved that the fantasy was believable and that the main character, Faith, learned to cope with her loss and anger in a way that gave her a more realistic view of people.

This wasn't what I'd hoped for. The Irish ambassador put this as a pick to gain insight to the culture and the country. It started really strong with the story of the first Trans-Atlantic flight. I thought I was in for something really interesting. Instead the attempt to weave in other stories and bring them together made for a disjointed read with an ending that felt barely connected to anything else that came before. I was really disappointed.