Cover Image: Daughters of the Resistance

Daughters of the Resistance

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Member Reviews

I thought this book was stunning. It had me hooked from the first page and was beautiful, harrowing and heartbreaking. From the blurb I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy it but I’m so glad I read it.

The descriptions were so vivid I felt the cold and hunger as I read and the twists, including the ending were brilliantly surprising.

I learned so much about aspects of World War 2 and the impact on the Ukraine that I didn’t previously know.

I will definitely be reading more by Lana Kortchik.

100% recommend.

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My thanks to Net Galley for the chance to review this absolutely excellent book!

This story is told from 2 points of view. Lisa Smirnova is on a train being taken to a certain death. Her train is intercepted by the partisans , led by Maxim, the husband of Irina Antoniva. Maxim saves Lisa and she joins the partisans to assist them to stop the Nazis, and falls in love with Maxim.

From the other point of view, Irina is working, raising her daughter, Sonya, while living with Maxim s parents Zina and Kirill, and battling with her mother in law on how to raise her daughter.

Tragic circumstances occur to bring Irina back to her husband and join forces with Lisa for a difficult task.

Loved this. Engaging story with a good flow. These characters have many dimensions and you will find yourself rooting for. A must read.!!

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I have read and enjoyed a lot of WW2 books so I didn't hesitate when I saw this one. I have never read any of Kortchik's books before so I was excited to give this a go.
The books I have previously read on this subject all seem to be very similar and not much distinguishes them - this book was unlike any other WW2 book I've read! The subject matter was refreshingly different, and not at all what I expected. I've never heard much or read anything about the partisans, so this was a real eye opener for me. It was fascinating reading about their sacrifices, their way of life, and their comradery. The bravery that Kortchik writes about is palpable.
I enjoyed the chapters being from two alternate viewpoints from two very different , but very strong women of war. It makes the novel pacey and fluid, Take war away, and Irina has the troubles of a 'normal' woman; a job she dislikes, a turbulent relationship with her mother in law, an adorable toddler. The addition of war torn Kiev brings heartbreak, struggle and endless uncertainty.
The harsh conditions for Lisa at the partisan settlement is tangible; the way Kortchik writes about the freezing temperatures, never ending risk, and lack of food truly brings it to life.
There is a lot of heartbreak in this book, and it comes in many different forms. There are lots of characters and plot events that stayed with me long after I finished reading - I would definitely recommend, Having read and liked this novel, I am definitely going to read Kortchik's Sisters Of War!

Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for an eARC of this book to read and review.

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Daughters of the resistance was a amazing book that did not let me down on any level. I loved Irina and Lisa’s story and felt that this was well wrote book if you like books about world war 2 era this may be one for you

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One of my favorite genres. This book did not disappoint. It was very very good. Can’t wait for more by this author.

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Daughters of the Resistance by Lana Kortchik is an excellent WWII-era historical fiction novel that takes place in Ukraine. This book has it all: history, suspense, love, loss, and a wonderful narrative that kept me turning page after page in hopes of finding out more.

I really loved Ms. Kortchik’s previous book, Sisters of War, so I knew I had to read this book that also takes place in Ukraine. The author clearly knows her history in regards to what the people of this area were subjected to during its horrific occupation from the Nazis, and it clearly shows in this stunning book.

This particular novel delves more into what the citizens in Keiv experienced. How many families were torn apart. How many lives were lost...futures destroyed...a country forever changed. It was fascinating (and devastating) to see all of the turmoil that took place. This book focusses on 1943-1945. We see not only how the everyday citizen was affected, but also some of the groups, resistance fighters, partisans, and individuals that did what they could individually and as a group to help fight for their survival and for their country.

I truly loved Lisa and Irina. I found both women incredibly brave, passionate, strong, and was in their corner throughout. They were able to represent and give a voice to all of the women that were present during these atrocities to help keep the memory of the people of Keiv that perished (and also survived ) this horrific time so that they will never be forgotten.

A stunning novel that I truly love and heartedly recommend. I think I have found a new, favorite author.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and HQ Digital for this stunning 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.

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I love WWII fiction, especially stories of resistance fighters (I was never the same after reading "The Nightingale". This book was really good and I was so thankful it was given to me by Netgalley. If you like WWII fiction, dont miss this one!

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