Escape to Florence by Kat Devereaux (Review by Danielle Urban)

Rating: 5-stars

Escape to Florence by Kat Devereaux is an epic journey of one young lady’s resistance efforts during World War II. Her story disappears along with her. Then, later, a family member starts to unravel her family’s hidden past. One that leads her back to the untold story of a young girl. The details in this story are breath taking. Kat Devereaux sets up a world set in the world’s darkest times. The atmosphere is thick with uncertainty, danger, and secrets. I love how Kat Devereaux leads readers slowly back to Stella, the main character. Stella is just one of many people who fought against the evil leaders of her time.

The tale is full of heartbreak, mystery, and an emotional roller coaster ride unlike any other. I love the main setting of the story set in Tuscany, Italy. The language of the country, the scenes, and the characters pop to life as I read the pages. It is easy to lose oneself inside this book. The beginning lures me in deep with curiosity and hope for the characters. The middle of this tale brings out the stronger emotional pulls. I never stopped rooting and hoping like crazy for the characters to win. I wanted them to have a good ending. Then, the ending comes up, and I am thrilled. When a writer creates such an engaging novel, I cannot help but to love it. This is my first read by Kat Devereaux and I am looking forward to reading more by her in the future. I recommend this book for fans of Christina Baker Kline, Jennifer Chiaverini, and Delia Owens.