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A review by alynnhays
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
challenging
emotional
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
⚠️ This rating does not reflect my personal views but rather my understanding that the book was technically good. Continue reading at your own risk! ⚠️
I'm saying it. I hate historical fiction. My memory is terrible and I can already see myself inaccurately recounting a book about code breaking and false imprisonment to a history buff. I'd likely get both the facts and the fiction completely wrong and make myself look like an asshole. I appreciate the context, but I'd rather have my history served up in an hour by a foul-mouthed podcaster.
The book was good. Like, on paper, it was well-written, had a compelling story, and described the plight of people during WWII (hence the 4 stars). Still, I was so happy to finish this book.
On a positive note, the character development deserves recognition. I was genuinely disappointed by the inevitable tragedies (because, of course, historical fiction loves to romanticize grief and misery). The fact that I cared at all means the author did something right. After SIXTEEN HOURS with these characters, I'd have to be a sociopath not to feel something. This book felt longer than a Taylor Swift song! At least the ending was decent—not just because it was over, but because it was actually pleasant.Spoiler alert: the dog lives!
I'm saying it. I hate historical fiction. My memory is terrible and I can already see myself inaccurately recounting a book about code breaking and false imprisonment to a history buff. I'd likely get both the facts and the fiction completely wrong and make myself look like an asshole. I appreciate the context, but I'd rather have my history served up in an hour by a foul-mouthed podcaster.
The book was good. Like, on paper, it was well-written, had a compelling story, and described the plight of people during WWII (hence the 4 stars). Still, I was so happy to finish this book.
On a positive note, the character development deserves recognition. I was genuinely disappointed by the inevitable tragedies (because, of course, historical fiction loves to romanticize grief and misery). The fact that I cared at all means the author did something right. After SIXTEEN HOURS with these characters, I'd have to be a sociopath not to feel something. This book felt longer than a Taylor Swift song! At least the ending was decent—not just because it was over, but because it was actually pleasant.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child death, Death, Forced institutionalization, Grief, and Medical trauma