Book Review: The Light We Left Behind by Tessa Harris

“If the pen is mightier than the sword, then the typewriter must be stronger than the tank.”

Tessa Harris, The Light We Left Behind

Review:

I cannot resist a WWII novel based on a true story. The Light We Left Behind had me gripped from the prologue. Right away we get a feel for Maddie and Max’s rapport before we jump eight years into the future. Now separated by circumstance, they are both doing their parts for the war effort all the while wondering what’s happened to the other and if promises made still stand.

After the prologue, the first quarter of the book is a little slow but gradually picks up between mysterious deaths, fake identities, and a love triangle. With such lovable characters, I found this to be an exceptionally emotional story. I particularly liked the scenes between Maddie and Hammler. His character gives an interesting perspective to the Nazi antagonist without condoning his actions. I almost wish there had been more scenes with him. The focus was mostly on Max and Maddie’s relationship.

Another notable relationship is that of Maddie and Dr. Baskin along with Maddie’s intuitiveness surrounding his death. This is a driving force for her part of the story and brings everything together. This book has a little bit of everything. Action, mystery, intrigue, romance, deception, miscommunication, loss, heroism, joy… It was an enjoyable read.

A huge thanks to Harper360 for sending me a free copy of the book to read and review.

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• Max. He’s the character I latched onto the most. I loved his emotion.
• Hammler’s storyline and the effect Maddie has on him. He’s haunting, but there is a human quality about him.
• Max and Maddie’s chemistry. They are a delightful pair.
• The conflict with Eddie and his place in Maddie’s life.

What I didn’t like:

• Sometimes the writing could be a little over the top. This usually occurred during sections of dialogue. It didn’t feel authentic some of the time.
• The pacing could have been better. However, it became less of an issue in the second half of the book.

Afterthoughts:

Though I have a few quips here and there, I ultimately enjoyed the book very much. I’m curious to read Tessa Harris’ book Beneath A Starless Sky now.

Where to buy the book: