In Hendrix’s debut novel, an unlikely romance develops between two people on opposing sides of a war.
Love, it seems, can appear in the most unexpected places. Mark Bergner is a young American soldier stationed in Germany shortly after World War II. He meets Lauren, a beautiful young German girl, in a chance encounter at a camera store, and they both feel an instant connection despite their differing backgrounds. Mark’s parents warn him to stay away from her, as they’re concerned about their Jewish son mingling with a German Fräulein. But Mark can’t resist, and, undaunted by Laura’s quiet refusals, repeatedly pursues her. As they begin their relationship, Mark’s parents worry about his allegiance to his religion and identity, while Laura’s father insists that she focus on school and church, and not deviate from the life he’s set up for her. As their complicated love deepens, Mark’s life in the army grows increasingly tense; he’s targeted in an investigation into a car accident that killed two people, in which he was one of the drivers. Soon he faces a court martial that threatens to end his army career; at the same time, he faces a rival for Laura’s affection. As Mark and Laura face down their respective demons, they must decide if they can dare to defy their families, their obligations and their cultures in order to be together. Told in a straightforward, well-paced style, this love story comes across as universal and timeless. The pair’s forbidden passion is sweetly depicted, and the WWII backdrop artfully serves as a reminder of where prejudice can ultimately lead. Mark and Laura form a union of hope during a dark chapter of history, and this believable, readable tale will likely resonate with any romantic.
A compelling love story about two people with divided loyalties.
