Ava and Shalom wrapped around my heart while breaking it at the same time. My mind engaged with unique storytelling, copious historical details and intricate characterization. The book took me to places of disquiet, anguish, disgust, sorrow, anger, joy and hope. Though difficult to read at times due to the Holocaust subject matter, I am so very glad I did. Sometimes we need sobering reality to gain perspective. The thing is, what happened in the story happened to many, many real people. Millions of innocents were persecuted, humiliated, tortured, demoralized, dehumanized and slaughtered by evil. The authors did not gloss over the cruelty of the Nazis, especially the SS, but also included many sweet moments of happiness.

Set near the enchanting Bavarian town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber from 1921 to after World War II, artist Hanz met his lovely wife Maria, married and settled on a grain farm with animals and garden. Hanz was also a caretaker. After experiencing the heartache of childlessness, it was serendipitous that newborn twin girls were left in their barn with a note from their Jewish mother who couldn't care for them. The couple told everyone they were their biological children, including the girls, which worked at first. A German boy was also adopted into their loving household. But the Nazis later came. Families were ripped apart. Betrayals occurred. Many were killed outright, others were taken to concentration camps where they experienced the terror that was Dr. Josef Mengele. Ava and Shalom's birth mother sought Hanz for help in desperation, placing many in danger. But danger came from all over, causing widespread pain and fear.

The significance of the deer and tree was touching. The nature writing was poetic and gentle. Characters ranged from kind and caring to horrifying and despicable. Plots and subplots flowed seamlessly and engaged me from beginning to end. Those who read World War II Historical Fiction ought to priorize this one. You won't regret it.

My sincere thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this achingly beautiful and memorable novel.