The story of Rumi and Jens is a compelling, emotive read. The descriptions of snowy Norwegian landscape, the smell of fish at the market and the ferocity of sea are so beautifully described and picturesque that you can visualise clear, vivid images of Rumi’s surroundings and daily encounters. The Resistance Girl is set in Norway in 1942, following the lives of Rumi, Jens and other resistance fighters in thwarting the Nazi occupation of Norway and in particular rescuing a few unwed Mothers and unborn babies from a local Lebensborn home.
Although I thoroughly enjoy historical WW2 fiction I have to admit my ignorance to the Nazi occupation in Norway which I feel is featured very little in other books. Prior to this novel I hadn’t heard of the Lebensborn concept or how desired the Norwegian women were for their blonde hair and blue eyes that were considered “crucial” to the Aryan race.
As with all of Mandy Robothams’ novels, the resistance girl is the perfect combination of historical information and an enjoyable fiction read. It is clear how much research and background information is sought to create such an engaging, informative and enlightening story. I am yet to find a novel of Mandy’s that I dislike however I think The Resistance Girl has to be my new favourite which I am so grateful for the opportunity to read. I had my hopes set on a little romance between Jens and Rumi from their first encounter in the woods and as always, I wasn’t disappointed!
Reviewed via NetGalley
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