This is a brilliant and disturbing book. Charlotte is a strong, intelligent and convincing heroine, and Faulk's writing style remains refreshingly realistic, even when he is dealing with sentimental scenes. Faulk's description of the Holocaust is unflinching and harrowing; it will haunt you even after you've finished reading. I read this entire book in the space of two days - the plot is highly captivating. This is the kind of novel that I am always trying to force friends and family to read - I can definitely recommend it!