Review: Jackdaws by Ken Follett

[Teresa50]

​I have long been a fan of Ken Follett and this book was as enjoyable as any other of his I have read. Although the novel is not based on the historical fact the meticulous research and detailed story telling make this tale feel as though it could have happened. Perhaps it is a composite of several events rather than the recounting of a single story.

Knowing the action takes place in France during WWII, just before D-Day I was aware that the story would be harrowing. And, indeed, in some places the events are difficult to read but the storytelling is so intense it just keeps you moving along, desperate to find out what happens next.

The role of women in SOE operations during this period has never been properly acknowledged and this book does actually go a long way towards making amends for history's lack of interest in the subject.

An ordinary thriller set in this period can rely on the stereotypes of Allies=good, Germans=bad. Ken Follett writes much more intelligently than this. He knows that causes might be right or wrong and that no sane person would argue that the ideology behind Nazi Germany was anything but evil. However, he makes clear that individual people on either side of a cause might at times act in ways we could consider despicable or heroic. For example, one of the main characters hates the mayhem and murder of civilians caused by indiscriminate bombing, loves his country and wants to protect both his home and the people he is responsible for. Unfortunately, his country is Germany, the bomb makers are the French Resistance and the innocent civilians are French collaborators.

An interesting, thought provoking read.

[rssllue]

It sounds like a great story and a thrilling read! Thanks for sharing it with us!