Florian, Emilia and Joana are all from various countries that Hitler invaded. All three cross paths and help each other on the way to freedom. Florian protects them, Joana heals them, and Emilia provides hope for them. Each of the three have rough backgrounds, starting from running away from definite death to leaving homes with families still inside. Sepetys brings out the worst and best of these relatable characters, and really gives them a human face. This book is suitable for people who don’t like historical fiction because it’s filled with romance, friendship, and tragedy as well.