Bookgirl86's Reviews > Lighting the Stars

'Lighting The Stars,' by Gabriele Wills is a novel that is not only captivating but emotionally moving. If you are a fan of historical fiction, World War II fiction or coming of age novels, this is the story for you.
Both beautifully researched and marvellously written, 'Lighting The Stars' is the literary equivalent of a warm, filling meal. Spanning years and following a large cast of characters, the novel begins with an interrupted afternoon.
15-year-old Merilee Sutcliffe is visiting her best friend, Peggy and her mother when they get the alarming news that the area right next-door is soon to be turned into a camp for German prisoners of war. Peggy's family is given the option to leave the area. However, Peggy's father refuses, insisting that he will never leave his ancestral land.
What follows is a life changing plunge into the freezing waters of war and many decisions that affect the characters lives forever. This novel has a broad cast of characters that are all revealed in the helpful guide in the introduction. Wills brings all of these characters together in really cool and interesting ways and by the end of the novel, every major character gets an ending that fits.
For a book that has a historical setting, the problems that the characters face are relatable. Problems with romance, friendship and loyalty are always relevant and Wills creates characters that are likable and who you can easily find yourself rooting for.
Of all of the great historical fiction novels that I have read over the past year, this was definitely one of the best. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a good, emotional read and anyone who likes a good hearty meal of a book.