Book Review: "If I Were You" By Lynn Austin

A remarkable connection between two women, through two time frames, inevitably during a tumultous time as America entered into war against Hitler's Nazi Germany.

"During and in the aftermath of war, women who have voluntary relationships with military personnel of an occupying force have historically been censured by their own society. Women who became pregnant from such unions would often take measures to conceal the father's status." Wikipedia

In addition, many of these war children were outcasts by society, "As the war ended, the children and their mothers were made outcasts by many among the general populace in formerly occupied countries, as societies grieved and resented the losses of the war, and actively rejected everything associated with Germany. The children and their mothers were often isolated socially, and many children were bullied by other children, and sometimes by adults, due to their origin." Wikipedia

This novel touched on not just these two women who shared a history together but also the class division in which Eve was poor while Audrey was wealthy with substantial assistance and servants.

With the war in full force these women took it upon themselves to join the front lines and risk life and limb for their countries. Their significant others be them as they may also participated in the war efforts.

The sadness crept upon them during a time when Lady Rosa Munde died during the bomb blast which reverberated throughout this extending and intriguing plot.

Audrey's mom may not have been perfect but she was family and it was difficult for her to come back whole and feeling fulfilled.

That's until Audrey fell in love similarly to how Eve fell in love but the switch up was quite extraordinary.

When the telegram arrived at the doorstep was another shocking portrayal of just how devastating the war was but in fact we must not get ahead of ourselves as there's another backstory to Robert's history.

The consequences from these relationships are shocking and create a ripple effect upon not only the women but the children involved including Eve's son Harry and Audrey's son Bobby.
The fact that Audrey stayed in England while Eve pretended to live a life not her own was life altering and created dire circumstances for those who took her in under false pretenses.
I enjoyed this entire premise, the well constructed plot, the altering twists and turns, and the riveting ending.

All of it was superb with plenty of well researched historical discussions that created an atmosphere of elusiveness, excitement, and spontaneity in living life to the fullest with zero regrets.

Praise to these characters and praise to Lynn Austin for creating such an immersive read.