Everyone Brave is Forgiven

The novel portrays interesting aspects of WWII, particularly the siege of Malta. However, I found the characters to be flat.

I hate to give this book 3 stars as it's set in a place and era that I love to read about: London during the Blitz WW2. The siege of Malta was also something I found interesting to read about. The author did an excellent job of describing this time and place hence I enjoyed the book, but I did not love it. It took me a while to identify what I didn't like about it. A lot happening plot-wise, both good and bad for the characters yet no conflict, which seems strange which is why it took me a while to put my finger on the issue. There is no conflict because the main character Mary North is perfect, a manic-pixie-dream-girl essentially. She is from a wealthy upper class family and so naturally doesn't need to worry about money, or think about cooking a meal or doing her own laundry etc. they have servants for that. She is also a 'rebel' to her class and is extremely liberal in her views and hence on the right side of everything politically and philosophically to the 21st C reader but very unlikely back then. She is stunningly beautiful so every man wants her (and drowns in her eyes), yet also intelligent with a quirky sense of humor. The men are the same. Perfect specimen of the gallant British Lad who even in the worst scenarios are gentlemen to the last with the self-deprecating sarcastic humour that make the British... British. So there was never any doubt, that somehow it would all turn out fine.

3.5-4 stars. Probably closer to 3.5 because it took me almost 5 months to finish it. It was real and depressing and sad and wonderful. Thoroughly enjoyed the dialogue, and the four main characters were lovely. ETA: Read as part of the 2017 New Years Readathon on Instagram.