After the War Paperback – April 4, 2023

After the War by Anita Frank was a wonderful story. At first, I was not that interested, but after the second chapter, I was definitely into the story. This is a story of secrets, many secrets. Gwen’s story is heartbreaking, at least for her. Jack is on the run from an imagined law-breaking. They meet at Gen’s father’s farm after he saves Gwen from a fall from a horse. He helps her back to her home and after speaking with her father is offered a job since Gwen is unable to help out.Even though he knows nothing about farming, he soon realizes that he enjoys the work. Gwen is not keen on him staying though. She has a secret that will eventually lead her to have to make a difficult decision. To that end, she and Jack marry, and Jack joins the war. He promises never to return because Gwen marries him to protect her secret.I loved this book! Although it was hard to read at times because of the difference between the English colloquial speech and what I am used to. The story was not a new one, but the approach to telling it caught me in and held me to the end. I will be looking for other books by Ms. Frank because I like her style of writing and know that her books will be some of my favorites.

I really enjoy reading historical fiction books and especially those that are set during WWII. This one was a little different focus than what I typically read in this genre with learning about life after Jack returns home. The first half of the book seemed to drag on for me and the back-and-forth focus on pre- and post-war distracted me. However, the second half did pick up and I enjoyed it much more. I wish the relationship between Jack and Gwen was given a little more depth. But it is a good book and a nice addition to the historical fiction genre.

I tbought this book would predominantly focus on the horrors of war, but it was a broader story of prolonged unrequited love and perseverance. I really admired the depth of character development against varied backdrops, the 1930-1940 British historical details, including vivid details of farm life, and local norms. Some of the conflict centers on local aristocracy with the entitlement of that time period which grates me but we have our own equivalent of societal corrupt capitalists and politicians in the US. The author created a satisfying read with believable circumstances and details and without unnecessary longwinded drama and drudgery. I really look forward to her other books.

I thoroughly enjoyed so many aspects of this book.I was hooked at the synopsis. This book was right up my alley. I thought I'd enjoy the story about Gwen and Jack but I didn't realize I'd love the detailed accounts of farming life and the time period. The author does a great job weaving these details into the story.I, personally, think this would be a great book club choice. There is so much to discuss.I would recommend this story that is full of substance but is also so enjoyable you don't want to put it down.

Well written story that kept me wanting to read more. Many reviewers have gone into great lengths of the story details so I won’t repeat that. However, the ending was happy, but completely anticlimactic. The readers and the characters deserved better after wading through all the twists and turns.

Very beautifully written story of love, friendship and family. I loved the way the story unfolded. All the characters were well developed. I definitely plan to reaD more by this author.

A story of perseverance against the odds, or is it just obsession. Who determines one from the other.Not much as far as historical significance but an entertaining read , I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Very well written. I recommend this book. Y characters feel real. I liked all the farm descriptions. I liked all the sacrifices.