Alan Hlad’s debut novel is a remarkable piece of fiction based on true events. I was completely engrossed with it and I had such a hard time putting it down. I wanted to know more and learn more. I learned things about WWII I hadn’t ever known before—using hundreds of homing pigeons to collect intelligence. Displaying mannequin-like dummies and tanks made out of cardboard to fool the Germans. Removing street signs to confuse the Germans if invaded. Just tidbits of information that generally aren’t talked about in WWII novels.

The character development is beautifully created and I felt so tied to them and Susan’s pet pigeon. The story of Ollie and Susan involves romance, intrigue, history, and a healthy dose of love for animals. The repeated obstacles the two lovers face kept me engaged non-stop throughout the book.

I cheered for the characters, cried for them, feared for them, and smiled with them. It definitely had some very intense nail-biter scenes that kept me hung in the balance.

Once I finished the book, I didn’t want to start another one right off the bat. I wanted to relish in it and ponder on it.

The research is incredible and I loved how the author intertwined some unknown true events that sparked the plot for this story. It’s an incredible weaving of fact and fiction.

I loved this book. It’s one I’d read again and again. I look forward to more books written by Alan Hlad.

Content: (S) None. (V) Typical war violence of shooting, stabbing, hitting, and some poor treatment of animals. (L) Mild.