Review of Do You Really Want To Know?

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis
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Re: Review of Do You Really Want To Know?

Post by Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis »

Nice descriptive review, Gerry!. I'm glad that you enjoyed the book. It sounds like a good one if you are into that genre.
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Stephen Christopher 1
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Post by Stephen Christopher 1 »

Many people will find this book fascinating. I've read quite a lot of books set during WWII that I don't feel that I want to read any more. You said it jumps around 15 times, is that too many or does it flow well enough that it's needed?
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Gerry Steen
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Post by Gerry Steen »

Stephen Christopher 1 wrote: 18 Apr 2024, 19:43 Many people will find this book fascinating. I've read quite a lot of books set during WWII that I don't feel that I want to read any more. You said it jumps around 15 times, is that too many or does it flow well enough that it's needed?
Hi, Stephen. Thank you for your reply. To answer your question, The going back and forth worked out well because the WWII events that happened to the characters helped to explain what was going on with them in the 1960s. The traumas of their youth were still present in their minds as adults in the 60s.
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Post by Renee S »

I think the book will be a good read for me because I answered yes to your first two questions. I do not know about Hungary's involvement in World War II and that's something I don't mind learning. Thanks for your recommendation.
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Post by Leia Temple »

We often forget to empathize with the victims of World War II, instead sensationalizing what we've heard and read. According to your well-written review, this book sounds like the opposite, detailing the events with raw detail. This was a great review, Gerry, and although I'm not a fan of war or history, I can admit my interest is piqued!
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Post by Jeff Kanda »

Hey Gerry, I am a great fan to historical books, especially those that describe world wars. I have enjoyed reading your review and I am now eager to read this book. Thanks for the engaging review!
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Post by Anu Anand »

Hi Gerry, thank you for sharing such a detailed and thoughtful review. Your insights into the characters and the historical backdrop of World War II are enlightening. Your review truly captures the essence of the book. Well done!
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Terry Kimble
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Post by Terry Kimble »

This is one of those books I would need to be in a conditioned mindset to read. I feel as though I have read enough about the subhuman murderous nazis in my lifetime to last me the rest of my life. :( Another well-written review, Gerry.
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Post by Kshitija Sonawane »

When I read the title, I thought it was going to be a children's book. I believe better work can be done in choosing the title. Other than that, the book seems interesting and a must read for those who are interested in studying history.
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Post by Julie Marie Basil »

I have read a number of historical fiction books that are set during the time period of World War II, but none that have focused on people from Hungary. This sounds like a very poignant story, and your review is very well written. Looking forward to hearing more from you soon, Gerry!
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Post by Claudia Angelucci »

This sounds like a very engaging and emotional read. I'm not surprised you were saddened, but it's great that the book has a positive message. Forgiveness is liberating indeed. Well done, Gerry! What a great review.
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Post by Abdullah Fawmi »

I like to know how the wwII effected different countries. It's an interesting topic for me. At the same time, when I read about the atrocities of Nazis, it makes me wonder how humans can be so cruel to another human. I think I would read the book sometime in the recent future. Thank for an excellent description of the book Gerry.
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Post by RJ Reviews »

This is such a sad part of our history. The horrors of war are unimaginable. Yet we're still going to wars with our fellow humans! This book will certainly help us remind ourselves of the frutile nature of war. A great review of a great book. Thank you.
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Post by Bettny Andrade »

Traumas, self-identity and leaving the past. A great premise, although I feel like it's not a read I would particularly enjoy. Thank you very much for your meticulous review Gerry!
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Post by Anaïs Quesson »

I always struggle with rating autobiographies, especially when they're about a subject this difficult. I feel bad about judging someone's writing when all they do is pouring their own heart and life into a book.
Thank you for this heartfelt review, Gerry. This must have been a powerful read.
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