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One Good Thing
From the New York Times�bestselling author of We Were the Lucky Ones, an unforgettable story of hardship and hope, courage and resilience, that follows one young woman’s journey through war-torn Italy
1940, Emilia Romagna. Lili and Esti have been best friends since meeting at the University of Ferrara; when Esti’s son Theo is born, they become as close as sisters. There is a war being fought across borders, and in Italy, Mussolini’s Racial Laws have deemed Lili and Esti descendants of an ‘inferior� Jewish race, but life somehow goes on—until Germany invades northern Italy, and the friends find themselves in occupied territory
Esti, older and fiercely self-assured, convinces Lili to flee first to a villa in the countryside to help hide a group of young war orphans, then to a convent in Florence, where they pose as nuns and forge false identification papers for the Underground. When disaster strikes at the convent, a critically wounded Esti asks Lili to take a much bigger step: To go on the run with Theo. Protect him while Esti can’t.
Terrified to travel on her own, Lili sets out on an epic journey south toward Allied territory, through Nazi-occupied villages and bombed-out cities, doing everything she can to keep Theo safe.
A remarkable tale of friendship, motherhood, and survival,One Good Thing is a tender reminder that love for another person, even amidst darkness and uncertainty, can be reason to keep going.
1940, Emilia Romagna. Lili and Esti have been best friends since meeting at the University of Ferrara; when Esti’s son Theo is born, they become as close as sisters. There is a war being fought across borders, and in Italy, Mussolini’s Racial Laws have deemed Lili and Esti descendants of an ‘inferior� Jewish race, but life somehow goes on—until Germany invades northern Italy, and the friends find themselves in occupied territory
Esti, older and fiercely self-assured, convinces Lili to flee first to a villa in the countryside to help hide a group of young war orphans, then to a convent in Florence, where they pose as nuns and forge false identification papers for the Underground. When disaster strikes at the convent, a critically wounded Esti asks Lili to take a much bigger step: To go on the run with Theo. Protect him while Esti can’t.
Terrified to travel on her own, Lili sets out on an epic journey south toward Allied territory, through Nazi-occupied villages and bombed-out cities, doing everything she can to keep Theo safe.
A remarkable tale of friendship, motherhood, and survival,One Good Thing is a tender reminder that love for another person, even amidst darkness and uncertainty, can be reason to keep going.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published March 4, 2025
573 people are currently reading
42.1k people want to read
About the author
Georgia Hunter
7books2,296followersMy first book, We Were the Lucky Ones, was inspired by a family reunion in 2000 that opened my eyes to the astounding, untold wartime stories of my grandfather, his parents and his siblings. In 2008, I set off to research and record this piece of my ancestry and a decade later, We Were the Lucky Ones was born. The book has been published in over twenty languages and has been adapted for television by Hulu as an eight-part limited series.
My second book, One Good Thing, is a historical novel set in Holocaust-era Italy. Told from the perspective of of a young woman forced to trust her inner strength as she navigates a world turned upside-down, One Good Thing is a story of friendship and motherhood, love and survival. You can pre-order now, and look for it on shelves on March 4th, 2025.
When I'm not writing, giving author talks, or dreaming up ideas for my next book, you can find me at home in Rowayton, Connecticut, or on the road in search of adventure with my husband and two boys and our Aussie Shepherd, Dash.
My second book, One Good Thing, is a historical novel set in Holocaust-era Italy. Told from the perspective of of a young woman forced to trust her inner strength as she navigates a world turned upside-down, One Good Thing is a story of friendship and motherhood, love and survival. You can pre-order now, and look for it on shelves on March 4th, 2025.
When I'm not writing, giving author talks, or dreaming up ideas for my next book, you can find me at home in Rowayton, Connecticut, or on the road in search of adventure with my husband and two boys and our Aussie Shepherd, Dash.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
November 24, 2024
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This story takes place in Italy during World War II and it is heart-wrenching and beautiful. It’s about two Jewish best friends, Lili and Esti, who are just trying to get through the war alive. Esti has a baby son named Theo and he is the one good thing during this terrible time they’re going through.
This was such an emotional read that was so heartbreaking. It made me feel thankful for the time I live in and for being Canadian. I am truly one of the lucky ones (that’s a nod to Hunter’s first book) What these innocents went through simply because they were Jewish was horrific, to say the least. Imagine your own countrymen being after you as if it wasn’t bad enough to be invaded by the Germans. Lili’s strength and love for Theo and his mother is what got them through this ordeal and helped her to carry on. I loved all the side characters they met along the way and Hunter’s descriptions of the roads that they travelled and the places they stopped were perfection, they really put me into the story and gave me chills.
The ending of this one wasn’t as satisfying as the rest of the book or as I would have liked it was a little too picture-perfect for me but I’m hoping that there’s another book in this series about these characters in the future, I would like to know what happens to them now that the war is over.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
This story takes place in Italy during World War II and it is heart-wrenching and beautiful. It’s about two Jewish best friends, Lili and Esti, who are just trying to get through the war alive. Esti has a baby son named Theo and he is the one good thing during this terrible time they’re going through.
This was such an emotional read that was so heartbreaking. It made me feel thankful for the time I live in and for being Canadian. I am truly one of the lucky ones (that’s a nod to Hunter’s first book) What these innocents went through simply because they were Jewish was horrific, to say the least. Imagine your own countrymen being after you as if it wasn’t bad enough to be invaded by the Germans. Lili’s strength and love for Theo and his mother is what got them through this ordeal and helped her to carry on. I loved all the side characters they met along the way and Hunter’s descriptions of the roads that they travelled and the places they stopped were perfection, they really put me into the story and gave me chills.
The ending of this one wasn’t as satisfying as the rest of the book or as I would have liked it was a little too picture-perfect for me but I’m hoping that there’s another book in this series about these characters in the future, I would like to know what happens to them now that the war is over.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
February 17, 2025
I was delighted go get a copy of this book as I enjoyed the author’s previous novel “We Were the Lucky Ones�
This story begins in 1941 and is entirely set in Italy.
Lili and Esti have been friends since university� after Esti has a baby their bond is very close.. like sisters.
Mussolini’s Racial Laws have deemed them descendants of “inferior Jews�
Esti convinces Lili to leave with her to help hide a group of war orphans to a villa in the countryside, then to a convent in Florence where they pose as nuns� and forge false identification papers for the Underground.
A disaster happens at the convent and Esti is badly injured� she convinces Lili to leave with little Theo and that they will meet later in Assisi.
Here.. the story becomes a very dangerous and epic journey ..mostly on foot.. for Lili and Theo throughout Italy to reach allied territory.
There were many brave people who helped them along their journey but there were also several close calls.
This is a great story about friendship, motherhood, and survival.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random Hose for the ARC!
This story begins in 1941 and is entirely set in Italy.
Lili and Esti have been friends since university� after Esti has a baby their bond is very close.. like sisters.
Mussolini’s Racial Laws have deemed them descendants of “inferior Jews�
Esti convinces Lili to leave with her to help hide a group of war orphans to a villa in the countryside, then to a convent in Florence where they pose as nuns� and forge false identification papers for the Underground.
A disaster happens at the convent and Esti is badly injured� she convinces Lili to leave with little Theo and that they will meet later in Assisi.
Here.. the story becomes a very dangerous and epic journey ..mostly on foot.. for Lili and Theo throughout Italy to reach allied territory.
There were many brave people who helped them along their journey but there were also several close calls.
This is a great story about friendship, motherhood, and survival.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random Hose for the ARC!
January 26, 2025
4.5 stars One Good Thing follows the story of Lili and Esti, two Jewish women living in Italy under Mussolini who is supporting Hitler with The Race Laws he implements. Things get even more difficult when the Germans invade Italy. Esti asks Lili to flee with her son Theo as she trusts her implicitly. The bonds of their friendship are as strong as family. Lili is forced to leave everyone she loves to protect the one good thing in her life, Theo.
This is a heartbreaking story of survival, loss, and resilience. Lili is able to do much more than she ever thought she could against insurmountable odds. Along her journey south, they meet many good individuals who assist them, including the Catholic church. Despite the horrific events of the day, this is also a story of love and hope and the lengths people will go to for the people they love and to make the world a better place for others.
Hunter does a superb job of crafting characters that are relatable and endearing. I found myself highly invested in all of their journeys and outcomes. Her writing is informative and captivating. I loved this story of WWII Italy, which I did not know much about even though I have read a lot about WWII. This is a must-read for those who love books about this time period. Many thanks to NetGalley, Pamela Dorman Books, and Georgia Hunter for an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is a heartbreaking story of survival, loss, and resilience. Lili is able to do much more than she ever thought she could against insurmountable odds. Along her journey south, they meet many good individuals who assist them, including the Catholic church. Despite the horrific events of the day, this is also a story of love and hope and the lengths people will go to for the people they love and to make the world a better place for others.
Hunter does a superb job of crafting characters that are relatable and endearing. I found myself highly invested in all of their journeys and outcomes. Her writing is informative and captivating. I loved this story of WWII Italy, which I did not know much about even though I have read a lot about WWII. This is a must-read for those who love books about this time period. Many thanks to NetGalley, Pamela Dorman Books, and Georgia Hunter for an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 30, 2024
You know when you connect with characters so deeply that you simultaneously can’t wait to finish the book to see what happens but also don’t want to finish because you don’t want to let go of these characters you’ve come to love?! That’s how I felt about Lili and Theo. As I neared the end and knew that also meant the end of my time engaged in their story, I felt a little sad. This book was deep and beautifully written. Character development was obviously spot on. The only reason I don’t give this book 5 stars is because the end left so many questions unanswered. What happened to Esti? To Niko? What will happen next in Lili, Theo, and Thomas� lives? It ended too abruptly!!!!!! I’m hoping that means a sequel will be coming?! But overall it’s a story & characters who I will cherish forever. It’s a book I will read again!
I loved the author’s first book We Were The Lucky Ones, so when I saw Georgia Hunter had a new book coming out I was so excited! Then I saw the giveaway on Good Reads for the book & put my name in the drawing. I never thought I’d win, but I was elated when I did! Thanks Good Reads for the beautiful book & for the opportunity to be one of the first to read a copy of One Good Thing!
I loved the author’s first book We Were The Lucky Ones, so when I saw Georgia Hunter had a new book coming out I was so excited! Then I saw the giveaway on Good Reads for the book & put my name in the drawing. I never thought I’d win, but I was elated when I did! Thanks Good Reads for the beautiful book & for the opportunity to be one of the first to read a copy of One Good Thing!
August 19, 2024
One Good Thing
By: Georgia Hunter
Pub date: March 4, 2025
Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books
Hunter’s debut novel We Were the Lucky Ones is one of my all-time favorites, so I was thrilled to get an ARC of this one.
Italy 1941
Lili and Esti met at the University of Ferrara and became as close as sisters. When Esti has a son Theo a war has broken out and Mussolini’s Racial Laws have made it unsafe for Jewish and their descendants. When Germany invades Italy, things heat up and they are now in occupied territory.
Lili flees to a villa to help orphans, then to Florence in a convent where they pose as nuns. After getting false papers and when Esti is wounded she asks Lili to get her son Theo to safety.
An emotional journey that sets Lili in the path of danger, while trying to get Theo to safety. The people she meets along the way and the struggles she will go through to save a little boy are dangerous, but worth every step. Love, loss and survival as their relationship is tested in many situations. Another wonderful novel by Hunter.
By: Georgia Hunter
Pub date: March 4, 2025
Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books
Hunter’s debut novel We Were the Lucky Ones is one of my all-time favorites, so I was thrilled to get an ARC of this one.
Italy 1941
Lili and Esti met at the University of Ferrara and became as close as sisters. When Esti has a son Theo a war has broken out and Mussolini’s Racial Laws have made it unsafe for Jewish and their descendants. When Germany invades Italy, things heat up and they are now in occupied territory.
Lili flees to a villa to help orphans, then to Florence in a convent where they pose as nuns. After getting false papers and when Esti is wounded she asks Lili to get her son Theo to safety.
An emotional journey that sets Lili in the path of danger, while trying to get Theo to safety. The people she meets along the way and the struggles she will go through to save a little boy are dangerous, but worth every step. Love, loss and survival as their relationship is tested in many situations. Another wonderful novel by Hunter.
October 22, 2024
If I could give a book 6 stars there’d be no question about this one. I loved “We Were the Lucky Ones� and was so excited to get this book as an ARC on NetGalley! This book provides a great insight into Italy in WW2 and the tumultuous political turmoil the country went through during that time. I loved the story of Lili & Esti and friendship through war and just one avenue of what loving your people looks like. 1000% a must read and I’ll buy this one anyways!
November 3, 2024
I was surprised when I saw One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter on the Net Galley list of reads. Having read her first book, I stopped reading the book I was reading to jump into one of my favorite authors new read. I wasn’t sure when it started it if was going to be as good as We Were The Lucky Ones but I was wrong. A great story about friendship, love, loss and family during WWII. I was sucked in and could not put it down till the very end. The book just kept getting better and better. A must read if you liked Georgia’s first novel. A 5 plus star read. I just hope we get another book by her sooner than later. Thanks to Net Galley for my early copy.
October 3, 2024
Somehow I was not expecting to be so swept away by One Good Thing. Hunter creates an amazing sense of place, transporting readers to World War II Italy. I felt the sting of each goodbye Lili and Theo make just a little bit more than the last. I needed to reach the end but feared where the characters were going to find. One Good Thing is a worthy follow up to We Were The Lucky Ones.
March 8, 2025
Oh I am so sad this book is over. It’s been a little while since I was soo fully immersed in a story like this. The writing is just totally consuming, I felt like I was living through WWII Italy right there with these characters. It’s not as sad/emotional as We Were the Lucky Ones, but it is still a fantastic read!
March 24, 2025
Thank you PRH Audio for the #gifted audiobook.
I listened to this entire book in a day. Which I do all the time right? But not with an almost 14 hours audiobook and not when I can only speed it up to 2x speed. This story was unputdownable. (I also got some organizing done which is a plus)
Expect 👉🏼 Historical Fiction, WW2, Guardian, Hidden Heritage, Occupied Italy
I went in blind on a rec from Amanda and didn’t know what it was about other than the author had written We Were the Lucky Ones and that was enough for me to go download it.
Follow Emilia through occupied Italy as she hide’s her heritage, protects her best friend’s child and helps with the resistance and even has a little bit of a romance.
This book was fantastic. Emilia didn’t know her own bravery. She hesitated when I would have but she did the difficult things no matter what. She was brave and loyal and true. Her love and devotion to her friends and family was undying.
I haven’t read nearly as many books about occupied Italy as I have about France. I didn’t realize how long Jews were able to remain in Italy while other counties in Europe were already under German control. I was fascinated to get a more well-rounded picture of Europe during the war.
This story captured my heart and the narration by Eva Feiler was incredible.
I listened to this entire book in a day. Which I do all the time right? But not with an almost 14 hours audiobook and not when I can only speed it up to 2x speed. This story was unputdownable. (I also got some organizing done which is a plus)
Expect 👉🏼 Historical Fiction, WW2, Guardian, Hidden Heritage, Occupied Italy
I went in blind on a rec from Amanda and didn’t know what it was about other than the author had written We Were the Lucky Ones and that was enough for me to go download it.
Follow Emilia through occupied Italy as she hide’s her heritage, protects her best friend’s child and helps with the resistance and even has a little bit of a romance.
This book was fantastic. Emilia didn’t know her own bravery. She hesitated when I would have but she did the difficult things no matter what. She was brave and loyal and true. Her love and devotion to her friends and family was undying.
I haven’t read nearly as many books about occupied Italy as I have about France. I didn’t realize how long Jews were able to remain in Italy while other counties in Europe were already under German control. I was fascinated to get a more well-rounded picture of Europe during the war.
This story captured my heart and the narration by Eva Feiler was incredible.
April 1, 2025
Another moving WWII story about female friendship and courageous women fighting against racism and anti-Semitism. This book had it all, romance, adventure and a touching plot involving a woman protecting her best friend's young Jewish son while also working to help the resistance with forging identity documents. Great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Pam Jenoff. Many thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
March 2, 2025
One Good Thing
3.5 bumped to a 4
This was a great story of friendship, love, and sacrifice. I’ve read many WWII historical fiction novels. I was invested in the lives of the main characters, but I needed a little more.
3.5 bumped to a 4
This was a great story of friendship, love, and sacrifice. I’ve read many WWII historical fiction novels. I was invested in the lives of the main characters, but I needed a little more.
March 19, 2025
I had high hopes for this book as the debut novel by this author was one of my favorites of all time. Unfortunately, this was not nearly as captivating. I’ve read tons of books in this same genre and time period and this felt very middle of the road. Glad I read it but not memorable.
March 2, 2025
One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter chronicles Lili's journey of survival during German occupied Italy. I feel WWII Historical Fiction is an important and timely genre because of the current political landscape and for that reason these perspectives and glimpses into the past are important.
I liked but did not love this particular story. I did love the strong female friendships and characters as well as the courage of side characters and the humanity that was shown throughout.
What I thought this book lacked was that while it is a character based book, the reader only got to know Lili on the surface. The writing focused on Lili's journey but didn't dive much deeper into her as a person. Even the love story was very surface level. Lili's lack of depth left me skimming at times to get to the next part of her journey.
While lovers of WWII Historical Fiction will likely enjoy this book, I ultimately did not think it added much to the genre as a whole.
I rated this book 3 starts on ŷ and 3.25 stars on Storygraph.
I liked but did not love this particular story. I did love the strong female friendships and characters as well as the courage of side characters and the humanity that was shown throughout.
What I thought this book lacked was that while it is a character based book, the reader only got to know Lili on the surface. The writing focused on Lili's journey but didn't dive much deeper into her as a person. Even the love story was very surface level. Lili's lack of depth left me skimming at times to get to the next part of her journey.
While lovers of WWII Historical Fiction will likely enjoy this book, I ultimately did not think it added much to the genre as a whole.
I rated this book 3 starts on ŷ and 3.25 stars on Storygraph.
February 24, 2025
This was a highly anticipated read for me after loving Hunter’s debut novel, We Were the Lucky Ones. As a grandchild of Holocaust survivors, she writes WWII historical fiction from a personal and emotional perspective. In One Good Thing, she explores the impact of WWII on Jewish people living in Italy under the rule of Mussolini.
This perspective reminded me of one of my favorite reads from last year, The Curse of Pietro Houdini. Both are set in Italy which, for me, seems to be a fairly unique perspective; so much of WWII historical fiction seems to be set more in Germany and Eastern Europe. I appreciate getting to see the war from a different angle (Greece is also mentioned in One Good Thing - another country I haven’t read much about).
One Good Thing was true to what I remembered about Hunter’s style - detailed, researched, and compelling. However, I had a harder time becoming emotionally invested in this story. There felt like a lot of “telling� and not as much “showing”…that always keeps things fairly surface level for me. And, for a story where the main characters were always on the run to save their lives, I didn’t feel the danger. They walked miles and miles and miles, yet didn’t encounter any real threats. The ending was true to reality - a big piece of the puzzle was left hanging without any real conclusion - and while it’s frustrating, it does feel fair to the situation.
Unfortunately, this story made me feel like the war wasn’t that scary and that the characters simply had to endure - everyone who has read a history book knows this absolutely was not the case. Overall, this one just felt too safe for me, and I would have liked Hunter to take more risks and to let the story tell itself. The Italian side of the story was super fresh and interesting and I did learn more from that aspect.
This perspective reminded me of one of my favorite reads from last year, The Curse of Pietro Houdini. Both are set in Italy which, for me, seems to be a fairly unique perspective; so much of WWII historical fiction seems to be set more in Germany and Eastern Europe. I appreciate getting to see the war from a different angle (Greece is also mentioned in One Good Thing - another country I haven’t read much about).
One Good Thing was true to what I remembered about Hunter’s style - detailed, researched, and compelling. However, I had a harder time becoming emotionally invested in this story. There felt like a lot of “telling� and not as much “showing”…that always keeps things fairly surface level for me. And, for a story where the main characters were always on the run to save their lives, I didn’t feel the danger. They walked miles and miles and miles, yet didn’t encounter any real threats. The ending was true to reality - a big piece of the puzzle was left hanging without any real conclusion - and while it’s frustrating, it does feel fair to the situation.
Unfortunately, this story made me feel like the war wasn’t that scary and that the characters simply had to endure - everyone who has read a history book knows this absolutely was not the case. Overall, this one just felt too safe for me, and I would have liked Hunter to take more risks and to let the story tell itself. The Italian side of the story was super fresh and interesting and I did learn more from that aspect.
March 11, 2025
This remarkable book takes place in the Holocaust-era of Italy. It is a story of friendship, motherhood, and survival. The one good thing is love. Even in the darkness and uncertainty of times, it can be the reason to keep going.❤️
March 30, 2025
Interesting WWII story set in Italy. Two women are in hiding with a child. Most of the WWII books that I have read are set in France or Germany so it was interesting to see how the war affected Jews in Italy.
March 31, 2025
1940. Northern Italy. Lili and Esti are best friends. When Esti gives birth to Theo, they grow even closer. When Germany invades, they help young refugees to hide, then take refuge in a convent. There, they pose as nuns, whilst forging papers for the underground. When the Italian Blackshirts attack, Esti begs Lili to take Theo on the run and keep him safe...
World War II is my favorite genre but I hadn't read many books set in Italy, so this one felt very fresh and new. Highly recommended.
World War II is my favorite genre but I hadn't read many books set in Italy, so this one felt very fresh and new. Highly recommended.
March 20, 2025
This book blew me away with how good it was. You never hear about the Holocaust in Italy, and this brought a whole new perspective to things. It was so beautifully written. This might be my favorite book so far for the year
March 25, 2025
Another GREAT book by Georgia Hunter. I’m not sure I loved it as much as We Were the Lucky Ones, her first novel but it was close. Her characters are so real and you feel like you have been with them on their jpurmey. It’s a book of survival, hope, sacrifice and people willing to help in dangerous times!
March 24, 2025
I chose to DNF this one. It wasn’t that it was bad, just mediocre compared to so many thrilling WW2 books available now. I felt like Lili’s entire character was mostly an extension of Evie’s life. She mostly just reacted to whatever was going on in Evie’s world. Just wasn’t for me.
January 14, 2025
Thank you ŷ & Penguin Random House for this ARC.
4 1/2 stars rounded up! This was an excellent novel set in Italy during the span of WWII & the Jewish people who lived in Italy during that time. Lili is a young woman forced to forge Aryan papers in order to try to escape to a safer city in Italy, all while bringing a 3 year old boy. His mother, Lili’s best friend, was severely injured by Germans & was unable to escape. While the story was heavy with sadness, there were many bright spots in Lili’s travels. I love when I enjoy a story & learn a lot at the same time. The cover made me think it was going to be a wartime love story, but that was not the case. Lili is on her own until three-fourths of the way through when she helps an American soldier. The entire book is heart wrenching & an eye opener to the atrocities of war.
4 1/2 stars rounded up! This was an excellent novel set in Italy during the span of WWII & the Jewish people who lived in Italy during that time. Lili is a young woman forced to forge Aryan papers in order to try to escape to a safer city in Italy, all while bringing a 3 year old boy. His mother, Lili’s best friend, was severely injured by Germans & was unable to escape. While the story was heavy with sadness, there were many bright spots in Lili’s travels. I love when I enjoy a story & learn a lot at the same time. The cover made me think it was going to be a wartime love story, but that was not the case. Lili is on her own until three-fourths of the way through when she helps an American soldier. The entire book is heart wrenching & an eye opener to the atrocities of war.
March 7, 2025
Georgia Hunter, acclaimed for her previous novel We Were the Lucky Ones, returns with One Good Thing, a deeply moving historical fiction set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Italy. Inspired by real events, Hunter masterfully weaves a tale of courage, friendship, and the relentless human spirit in times of war.
With her signature meticulous research and evocative prose, Hunter brings to life Lili and Esti, two Jewish women navigating the perils of Mussolini’s Racial Laws, Nazi invasion, and the underground resistance. Through their intertwined fates, One Good Thing offers a haunting yet hopeful reminder of how love and sacrifice can triumph amid the darkest times.
Plot Summary: A Perilous Journey Through War-Torn Italy
The novel follows Lili and Esti, best friends who, despite Italy’s rising antisemitism, attempt to maintain normalcy in their lives. Lili, a reserved and pragmatic young woman, and Esti, the fiercely independent and outspoken daughter of Greek immigrants, have been inseparable since university. When Esti gives birth to her son Theo, Lili becomes his beloved “Zia� (aunt), further strengthening their bond.
However, their world collapses when Nazi forces invade Italy, shattering their illusions of safety. As Jewish persecution intensifies, the two women embark on a desperate journey, first hiding in a countryside villa with war orphans, then forging false identities in a convent. When Esti is critically injured during a raid, she entrusts Lili with her most precious possession—Theo—and urges her to flee south toward Allied-controlled territory.
Lili, unprepared for such an enormous responsibility, must summon inner strength she never knew she had. As they evade German patrols, navigate bombed-out cities, and rely on the kindness of strangers, Lili transforms from a cautious observer into an active resistor.
Their journey is perilous, marked by close calls, betrayals, and unthinkable loss. Yet, at its heart, One Good Thing is a testament to the power of love—between friends, between a surrogate mother and child, and between those who risk their lives for the sake of humanity.
Character Analysis: Strength in Vulnerability
Lili Passigli: The Reluctant Hero
Lili is the novel’s emotional anchor, undergoing the most profound transformation. At the novel’s start, she is a young woman defined by her structured life and cautious approach to risk. However, as the war escalates, she is forced into situations that challenge her deepest fears.
Her evolution is not immediate, which makes it deeply realistic and compelling. She does not instantly become a fearless warrior but instead grapples with fear, doubt, and the unbearable weight of responsibility. The novel’s greatest triumph is in showing her gradual courage—not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it.
Esti Ezratti: The Fierce Survivor
If Lili is the reluctant hero, Esti is the firebrand—bold, defiant, and unwilling to accept injustice. She is a sharp contrast to Lili’s quiet caution, often pushing boundaries, speaking out against oppression, and risking herself to help others.
Her arc is heartbreaking yet powerful. Though physically broken after her brutal assault at the convent, her spirit never wavers. Even in her darkest moments, she fights—whether it’s by forging false documents or ensuring Theo’s safety.
One critique, however, is that Esti’s fate is left somewhat unresolved, a narrative choice that, while realistic, might frustrate readers hoping for a clearer resolution.
Theo: The Symbol of Hope
Theo, though a child, represents the novel’s core theme: the resilience of the next generation. His innocence, curiosity, and unwavering trust in Lili make his presence both heartwarming and gut-wrenching.
Unlike many war novels where children are merely passive figures, Theo is given depth—he senses the fear in the adults around him, struggles with the absence of his mother, and yet, in his small way, helps keep Lili moving forward.
Themes: Layers of Survival and Sacrifice
Friendship as a Lifeline
At its heart, One Good Thing is not just a war story—it’s a story about friendship and chosen family. The relationship between Lili and Esti is tender, complex, and deeply authentic. Even when separated, their bond drives the novel’s emotional core.
Motherhood Beyond Biology
The novel challenges traditional notions of motherhood, portraying it not as a biological role, but as an act of sacrifice and love. Lili’s transformation into Theo’s protector is deeply moving—she doesn’t see herself as a mother, yet she assumes that role in ways that define her strength.
The Moral Dilemmas of War
The novel does not shy away from moral ambiguity. Lili and Esti, like many in the resistance, forge papers, deceive authorities, and rely on illegal networks to survive. Hunter asks an essential question: When survival is at stake, where does one draw the line between right and wrong?
This complexity makes the story more than just good vs. evil—it highlights the difficult choices real people had to make.
Writing Style and Historical Accuracy
Hunter’s Evocative Prose
Georgia Hunter’s writing is immersive and atmospheric. Her descriptions of war-torn Italy are vivid without being gratuitous, balancing beauty with devastation.
Her ability to shift between urgency and introspection is a hallmark of great historical fiction. The prose is measured yet emotional, allowing the reader to feel the weight of every moment.
Historical Detail: A Double-Edged Sword
One of Hunter’s greatest strengths is her meticulous research. From the architecture of Florence to the procedures of the underground resistance, her world feels authentic and historically rich.
However, in some sections, the historical detail can become overwhelming, slowing the pacing. While this will appeal to history buffs, some readers may find it excessive.
Critiques: Where the Novel Falters
Uneven Pacing
The novel’s first half is stronger than its second. The early chapters, rich with character development, build tension beautifully. However, once Lili and Theo are on the run, the plot becomes somewhat episodic—a series of obstacles rather than a clear narrative arc.
Lack of Closure for Certain Characters
While One Good Thing excels at realism, some character fates remain ambiguous. The novel’s ending, though poignant, might leave readers longing for a more definitive resolution, particularly regarding Esti’s fate.
Limited Exploration of Esti’s Trauma
The novel powerfully depicts Esti’s assault and subsequent injuries, but her psychological trauma is not explored in depth. Given the novel’s emotional weight, a deeper dive into her healing process would have added even more layers to her character.
Final Verdict: A Poignant and Worthy Read
One Good Thing is a deeply moving, beautifully written, and historically immersive novel that captures the resilience of the human spirit during WWII. While its uneven pacing and unresolved character arcs slightly diminish its impact, it remains a standout work of historical fiction.
With her signature meticulous research and evocative prose, Hunter brings to life Lili and Esti, two Jewish women navigating the perils of Mussolini’s Racial Laws, Nazi invasion, and the underground resistance. Through their intertwined fates, One Good Thing offers a haunting yet hopeful reminder of how love and sacrifice can triumph amid the darkest times.
Plot Summary: A Perilous Journey Through War-Torn Italy
The novel follows Lili and Esti, best friends who, despite Italy’s rising antisemitism, attempt to maintain normalcy in their lives. Lili, a reserved and pragmatic young woman, and Esti, the fiercely independent and outspoken daughter of Greek immigrants, have been inseparable since university. When Esti gives birth to her son Theo, Lili becomes his beloved “Zia� (aunt), further strengthening their bond.
However, their world collapses when Nazi forces invade Italy, shattering their illusions of safety. As Jewish persecution intensifies, the two women embark on a desperate journey, first hiding in a countryside villa with war orphans, then forging false identities in a convent. When Esti is critically injured during a raid, she entrusts Lili with her most precious possession—Theo—and urges her to flee south toward Allied-controlled territory.
Lili, unprepared for such an enormous responsibility, must summon inner strength she never knew she had. As they evade German patrols, navigate bombed-out cities, and rely on the kindness of strangers, Lili transforms from a cautious observer into an active resistor.
Their journey is perilous, marked by close calls, betrayals, and unthinkable loss. Yet, at its heart, One Good Thing is a testament to the power of love—between friends, between a surrogate mother and child, and between those who risk their lives for the sake of humanity.
Character Analysis: Strength in Vulnerability
Lili Passigli: The Reluctant Hero
Lili is the novel’s emotional anchor, undergoing the most profound transformation. At the novel’s start, she is a young woman defined by her structured life and cautious approach to risk. However, as the war escalates, she is forced into situations that challenge her deepest fears.
Her evolution is not immediate, which makes it deeply realistic and compelling. She does not instantly become a fearless warrior but instead grapples with fear, doubt, and the unbearable weight of responsibility. The novel’s greatest triumph is in showing her gradual courage—not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it.
Esti Ezratti: The Fierce Survivor
If Lili is the reluctant hero, Esti is the firebrand—bold, defiant, and unwilling to accept injustice. She is a sharp contrast to Lili’s quiet caution, often pushing boundaries, speaking out against oppression, and risking herself to help others.
Her arc is heartbreaking yet powerful. Though physically broken after her brutal assault at the convent, her spirit never wavers. Even in her darkest moments, she fights—whether it’s by forging false documents or ensuring Theo’s safety.
One critique, however, is that Esti’s fate is left somewhat unresolved, a narrative choice that, while realistic, might frustrate readers hoping for a clearer resolution.
Theo: The Symbol of Hope
Theo, though a child, represents the novel’s core theme: the resilience of the next generation. His innocence, curiosity, and unwavering trust in Lili make his presence both heartwarming and gut-wrenching.
Unlike many war novels where children are merely passive figures, Theo is given depth—he senses the fear in the adults around him, struggles with the absence of his mother, and yet, in his small way, helps keep Lili moving forward.
Themes: Layers of Survival and Sacrifice
Friendship as a Lifeline
At its heart, One Good Thing is not just a war story—it’s a story about friendship and chosen family. The relationship between Lili and Esti is tender, complex, and deeply authentic. Even when separated, their bond drives the novel’s emotional core.
Motherhood Beyond Biology
The novel challenges traditional notions of motherhood, portraying it not as a biological role, but as an act of sacrifice and love. Lili’s transformation into Theo’s protector is deeply moving—she doesn’t see herself as a mother, yet she assumes that role in ways that define her strength.
The Moral Dilemmas of War
The novel does not shy away from moral ambiguity. Lili and Esti, like many in the resistance, forge papers, deceive authorities, and rely on illegal networks to survive. Hunter asks an essential question: When survival is at stake, where does one draw the line between right and wrong?
This complexity makes the story more than just good vs. evil—it highlights the difficult choices real people had to make.
Writing Style and Historical Accuracy
Hunter’s Evocative Prose
Georgia Hunter’s writing is immersive and atmospheric. Her descriptions of war-torn Italy are vivid without being gratuitous, balancing beauty with devastation.
Her ability to shift between urgency and introspection is a hallmark of great historical fiction. The prose is measured yet emotional, allowing the reader to feel the weight of every moment.
Historical Detail: A Double-Edged Sword
One of Hunter’s greatest strengths is her meticulous research. From the architecture of Florence to the procedures of the underground resistance, her world feels authentic and historically rich.
However, in some sections, the historical detail can become overwhelming, slowing the pacing. While this will appeal to history buffs, some readers may find it excessive.
Critiques: Where the Novel Falters
Uneven Pacing
The novel’s first half is stronger than its second. The early chapters, rich with character development, build tension beautifully. However, once Lili and Theo are on the run, the plot becomes somewhat episodic—a series of obstacles rather than a clear narrative arc.
Lack of Closure for Certain Characters
While One Good Thing excels at realism, some character fates remain ambiguous. The novel’s ending, though poignant, might leave readers longing for a more definitive resolution, particularly regarding Esti’s fate.
Limited Exploration of Esti’s Trauma
The novel powerfully depicts Esti’s assault and subsequent injuries, but her psychological trauma is not explored in depth. Given the novel’s emotional weight, a deeper dive into her healing process would have added even more layers to her character.
Final Verdict: A Poignant and Worthy Read
One Good Thing is a deeply moving, beautifully written, and historically immersive novel that captures the resilience of the human spirit during WWII. While its uneven pacing and unresolved character arcs slightly diminish its impact, it remains a standout work of historical fiction.
January 7, 2025
Es la segunda vez que Georgia Hunter me deja con el corazón en un puño ❤️�, pero quiero leer todo lo que escriba porque madre mía qué librazo.
December 19, 2024
One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter is a wonderful and stunning WWII era novel. Just wow.
I loved the author’s first book, so I couldn’t wait to read this gem…and gem it is.
Here we are immersed into WWII and the horrific experiences of those that lived in Italy faced, namely the Jewish citizens and population. The main characters were beautifully written and portrayed. The emotions, trials, fears, and experiences were heart wrenchingly described and I felt as if I was there during many parts within the novel.
It is such an amazing book, and I feel lives up to the author’s freshman novel, We Were the Lucky Ones, and that is certainly saying something.
I highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and PENGUIN GROUP Viking Penguin | Pamela Dorman Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/4/25.
I loved the author’s first book, so I couldn’t wait to read this gem…and gem it is.
Here we are immersed into WWII and the horrific experiences of those that lived in Italy faced, namely the Jewish citizens and population. The main characters were beautifully written and portrayed. The emotions, trials, fears, and experiences were heart wrenchingly described and I felt as if I was there during many parts within the novel.
It is such an amazing book, and I feel lives up to the author’s freshman novel, We Were the Lucky Ones, and that is certainly saying something.
I highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and PENGUIN GROUP Viking Penguin | Pamela Dorman Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 3/4/25.
March 7, 2025
1940, Emilia Romagna. Lili and Esti have been best friends since meeting at the University of Ferrara; when Esti’s son Theo is born, they become as close as sisters. There is a war being fought across borders, and in Italy, Mussolini’s Racial Laws have deemed Lili and Esti descendants of an ‘inferior� Jewish race, but life somehow goes on—until Germany invades northern Italy, and the friends find themselves in occupied territory
Esti, older and fiercely self-assured, convinces Lili to flee first to a villa in the countryside to help hide a group of young war orphans, then to a convent in Florence, where they pose as nuns and forge false identification papers for the Underground. When disaster strikes at the convent, a critically wounded Esti asks Lili to take a much bigger step: To go on the run with Theo. Protect him while Esti can’t.
Terrified to travel on her own, Lili sets out on an epic journey south toward Allied territory, through Nazi-occupied villages and bombed-out cities, doing everything she can to keep Theo safe.
*Thank you to the publisher, PENGUIN GROUP| Pamella Dorman Books, for providing me with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All Opinions are my own*
From the first chapter, I was captivated by this story. I may not understand what it's like to live through the War, but reading from Lili's point of view made me feel connected to her and everything she and Theo went through. While reading this novel, I felt so many emotions, including dread, fury, and hope. I was angry at what the Germans were putting everyone through in this horrific war, afraid that Lilli and Theo would be discovered and captured, and hopeful that they would make it through the war. I've read many World War II historical fiction books over the years, so I was pleased that this one occurred in Italy rather than Europe. I felt like I learned so much about what Italy had endured during that awful time. One Good Thing is a story that makes you think about many topics, including what you would do in Lili's situation.
I adored Lilli from the start. Running with her best friend’s son, Theo, could be easy without her best friend. That’s an unbreakable bond when you would do anything for your friend, even if it’s the hardest thing you must do. Not only did the war affect Lilli, but it also changed Theo, who had to bear a great deal for someone so little. Without his mother by his side, I can't even comprehend what was going through his head then. I was glad that it was Lilli that he had by his side. Throughout the novel, I hoped Lilli would find a way to reconnect with her best friend, Esti. I, like Lilli, wondered what had happened to her. I admired Lilli's determination to find her best friend. Their friendship reminded me so much of myself and my best friend, Mariah.
In 2019, I read Georgia Hunter's debut novel, We Were The Lucky Ones, and fell in love with the story, writing, and characters. I enjoyed everything about that book but loved One Good Thing much more. Despite the heavy theme, I read late into the night to see how it would end. It was evident to me how much research went into this book. I have discovered yet another favorite author, and I am eager to see what comes next from Georgia Hunter ! One Good Thing is about love, friendship, courage, and hope. I would highly recommend it to any historical fiction fans.
Esti, older and fiercely self-assured, convinces Lili to flee first to a villa in the countryside to help hide a group of young war orphans, then to a convent in Florence, where they pose as nuns and forge false identification papers for the Underground. When disaster strikes at the convent, a critically wounded Esti asks Lili to take a much bigger step: To go on the run with Theo. Protect him while Esti can’t.
Terrified to travel on her own, Lili sets out on an epic journey south toward Allied territory, through Nazi-occupied villages and bombed-out cities, doing everything she can to keep Theo safe.
*Thank you to the publisher, PENGUIN GROUP| Pamella Dorman Books, for providing me with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All Opinions are my own*
From the first chapter, I was captivated by this story. I may not understand what it's like to live through the War, but reading from Lili's point of view made me feel connected to her and everything she and Theo went through. While reading this novel, I felt so many emotions, including dread, fury, and hope. I was angry at what the Germans were putting everyone through in this horrific war, afraid that Lilli and Theo would be discovered and captured, and hopeful that they would make it through the war. I've read many World War II historical fiction books over the years, so I was pleased that this one occurred in Italy rather than Europe. I felt like I learned so much about what Italy had endured during that awful time. One Good Thing is a story that makes you think about many topics, including what you would do in Lili's situation.
I adored Lilli from the start. Running with her best friend’s son, Theo, could be easy without her best friend. That’s an unbreakable bond when you would do anything for your friend, even if it’s the hardest thing you must do. Not only did the war affect Lilli, but it also changed Theo, who had to bear a great deal for someone so little. Without his mother by his side, I can't even comprehend what was going through his head then. I was glad that it was Lilli that he had by his side. Throughout the novel, I hoped Lilli would find a way to reconnect with her best friend, Esti. I, like Lilli, wondered what had happened to her. I admired Lilli's determination to find her best friend. Their friendship reminded me so much of myself and my best friend, Mariah.
In 2019, I read Georgia Hunter's debut novel, We Were The Lucky Ones, and fell in love with the story, writing, and characters. I enjoyed everything about that book but loved One Good Thing much more. Despite the heavy theme, I read late into the night to see how it would end. It was evident to me how much research went into this book. I have discovered yet another favorite author, and I am eager to see what comes next from Georgia Hunter ! One Good Thing is about love, friendship, courage, and hope. I would highly recommend it to any historical fiction fans.
March 4, 2025
Georgia Hunter's "One Good Thing" takes readers on an emotional and captivating journey set in World War II Italy.
The story follows Lili Passigli, a young Jewish woman, as she traverses the dangerous landscape of Nazi-occupied Italy. When her friend Esti is injured, Lili assumes the role of guardian for Esti's young son, Theo. Together, they undertake a perilous journey south toward the Allies. Along the way, they meet individuals who risk their own lives to help them, including resistance fighters and members of the Catholic Church.
Lili's journey sees her transform from a student to a tenacious and dedicated protector. Her character growth is closely tied to supporting characters like Theo, who embodies hope and innocence amidst the chaos. Thomas, an American soldier, adds an element of warmth and potential love, emphasizing the significance of human connection during wartime.
The novel explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, resonating with contemporary societal issues of prejudice and the need to stand up against hatred.
Hunter's writing style is vivid and engaging, though some readers may find the narrative more conventional compared to her debut novel, "We Were the Lucky Ones." The atmosphere is tense and emotionally charged, transporting readers into the heart of war-torn Italy.
For me, the book was both heartbreaking and uplifting, evoking strong emotions while showcasing the human spirit's potential for survival and love. While some chapters felt a bit drawn out, the overall impact of the story remains powerful. This novel stands out because it sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of WWII history—Italy's role—and reminds us of the importance of empathy and shared responsibility.
In the context of historical fiction, "One Good Thing" holds its own, though it might lack the historical authenticity that made "We Were the Lucky Ones" so remarkable.
Nonetheless, it is a gripping read for those interested in WWII stories, offering a fresh perspective on Italy's experience during the war.
The book encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences with resilience and the profound impact small acts of kindness can have on people's lives.
3.5/5
The story follows Lili Passigli, a young Jewish woman, as she traverses the dangerous landscape of Nazi-occupied Italy. When her friend Esti is injured, Lili assumes the role of guardian for Esti's young son, Theo. Together, they undertake a perilous journey south toward the Allies. Along the way, they meet individuals who risk their own lives to help them, including resistance fighters and members of the Catholic Church.
Lili's journey sees her transform from a student to a tenacious and dedicated protector. Her character growth is closely tied to supporting characters like Theo, who embodies hope and innocence amidst the chaos. Thomas, an American soldier, adds an element of warmth and potential love, emphasizing the significance of human connection during wartime.
The novel explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, resonating with contemporary societal issues of prejudice and the need to stand up against hatred.
Hunter's writing style is vivid and engaging, though some readers may find the narrative more conventional compared to her debut novel, "We Were the Lucky Ones." The atmosphere is tense and emotionally charged, transporting readers into the heart of war-torn Italy.
For me, the book was both heartbreaking and uplifting, evoking strong emotions while showcasing the human spirit's potential for survival and love. While some chapters felt a bit drawn out, the overall impact of the story remains powerful. This novel stands out because it sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of WWII history—Italy's role—and reminds us of the importance of empathy and shared responsibility.
In the context of historical fiction, "One Good Thing" holds its own, though it might lack the historical authenticity that made "We Were the Lucky Ones" so remarkable.
Nonetheless, it is a gripping read for those interested in WWII stories, offering a fresh perspective on Italy's experience during the war.
The book encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences with resilience and the profound impact small acts of kindness can have on people's lives.
3.5/5
December 2, 2024
4.25. A very compelling and engaging read. I really liked Ms. Hunters earlier debut novel, We Were The Lucky Ones and this one did not disappoint. As in her earlier novel, this book focused on World War II, but this one was centered in Italy with the protagonist’s struggle with hardship and survival along with family and friendship. Although many WWII novels focus on Eastern Europe, France and Germany, far fewer deal with similar atrocities in Italy. The challenges and hardships were similar but not as well chronicled. We followed the friendship of Lili and Esti, the former from Bologna, while the latter was from Greece in pre world war II, to the imposition of Mussolini’s Racial Laws in 1939 that restricted the Jewish population in Italy. Lilli and Esti start a journey to safety through various places in Italy, finding the fellowship and assistance of some in the Catholic Church (though not all), the kindness and hostility of neighbors and strangers, the partisans fighting against the Axis, and others. Lilly’s journey takes on many challenges and unspeakable horrors but shows the perseverance for the ideals of safety and peace, along with the love for friends and family. Extremely well researched with good character development. Thank you to Netgalley for providing me an advance copy in exchange for an honest and candid review.
February 28, 2025
Two things really drew me into this book. First, it's another account of Jewish characters during Hitler's regime, but instead of being set in the typical Germany or Poland, its set in Italy, and tells about the struggles of Italian Jews during this time, something that I haven't read about, nor appreciated, before. Second, it focuses on the incredibly close friendship of two women, and what each of them will do for each other under horrific circumstances. This is a story of deep friendship, bonds that can't be broken, and the sacrifices they make for each other. What helps this is incredible characters in Esti and Lili. They were simply two amazing women. This book also had great supporting characters � some with bigger roles than others, but all equally important.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2025
Reading One Good Thing made me realize that I knew next to nothing about Italy's role in WWII. This book fully immerses you in the timeline and helps you see that even when there is unspeakable horror happening around you, that there are still good people willing to risk their lives to help save yours. Lili, the main character, showed incredible strength and fortitude. She was the kind of friend that most of us can only hope to be. I also enjoyed how Hunter brought real life people into the story. It made Lili and Theo more real and helped highlight that stories about WWII and the Holocaust aren't just stories that sell novels but rather stories that need to be told so that we can learn from history, so that some day we might actually stop letting history repeat itself.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin for the advance copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin for the advance copy.
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