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What a fantastic book. I can't recommend this one highly enough.

It's an epic tale centred around the life of a Hungarian Jew called Andras during the events of WWII. A couple of years before the outbreak of war he's on his way from Hungary to Paris with a scholarship to study architecture and high hopes for his future, he's asked to deliver a secret letter and events lead him to fall in love with the letter's recipient. As the situation in Europe changes so does his fortunes and those of his freinds and family.

Hungary was an ally of Germany and as result the Hungarian Jews were not sent to the death camps (at least not initially). Instead they were conscripted into a 'second army' as Jews were not felt trustworthy enough to be taught fighting skills and to bear arms. The 'second army' was essentially a labour force that was deployed ahead of the main army forces on road or bridge building projects or to clear snow or minefields etc. At first they weren't treated too badly, with the inevitable exception of a few individuals within the system, the authorities made great strides to protect it's Jewish population and did not submit to the demands of the Germans. In the end however, as the course of the war progresses the fortunes of those within the labour force change.

Andras is eventually forced back to Hungary when the war begins and is soon married. His wife has a complicated relationship with Hungary, one that makes it even more perilous for their families. Andras is conscripted into the labour force several times throughout the novel and comes across the best and worst of men. He becomes a father and makes several indisolvable friendships. His experiences are shocking and at times heartbreaking but are also peppered with heartwarming and life affirming moments. In describing the details of the experiences of the individual members of two very different families and several linked friends this novel is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Some survive the war, some do not.

The story is even more poignant as reading the acknowledgements it becomes clear that this is, at least in part, a true story and relates to the writer's own family history. It's the type of book that makes you want to re-assess the star marking you've given to any book you read before it. Well worth a read!