All the Broken Places by John Boyne follows Gretel, Bruno's sister from The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, navigating the aftermath of World War II. She deals with guilt and secrets about her family's Nazi history as a teenager in Paris and later as a 91-year-old in London. The novel alternates between her past and present, exploring themes of trauma, guilt, and the impact of historical atrocities. The book depicts trauma tied to the Holocaust and World War II, as well as child and domestic abuse, gaslighting, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grooming.

John Boyne's All the Broken Places is lauded for its compelling narrative and deep character development. Readers appreciate the nuanced exploration of guilt and redemption. However, some criticize the pacing and find certain plot points implausible. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that effectively engages with complex themes.

Readers who appreciate deeply emotional narratives, historical fiction, and complex character studies will be drawn to All the Broken Places by John Boyne. Similar to fans of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale and Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See, this novel offers a poignant exploration of the shadows cast by World War II.

Mysterious / Melancholic / Emotional / Contemplative / Bittersweet

**Gretel Fernsby**  
The central narrator and main character of the story, whose perspective filters everything the reader experiences. Gretel is characterized by her complicated background and journey toward self-awareness and redemption.

**Alexander Darcy-Witt**  
The primary present-day antagonist, known for his abusive behavior toward his family. His character is symbolic of the malignant figures exposed by societal movements for justice.

**Kurt Kotler**  
Gretel's childhood crush and the teen SS officer who becomes an antagonist in her youth. His presence reminds Gretel of the past and the violence associated with it.

**Heidi Hargrave**  
A long-time resident of the building who is looked after by Gretel. She struggles with health issues and is seemingly supported by Gretel in making sound life choices.

**Eleanor**  
Initially underestimated by Gretel, she emerges as a confident and health-conscious woman. She evolves into a trusted confidant and friend to Gretel.

**Caden Fernsby**  
Gretel's son, who at first appears predatory, focusing on financial gain. His intentions are later reassessed as the story progresses.

**Oberon**  
Heidi's grandson, with initially dubious intentions regarding her flat. His character develops through the story, revealing genuine care for his grandmother.

**Henry Darcy-Witt**  
The young son of Madelyn and Alex, who becomes a symbol of penance and redemption for Gretel. Enamored with exploration and reading, he draws parallels to Gretel's past.

**Madelyn Darcy-Witt**  
Alex's wife and Henry's mother, initially perceived as superficial by Gretel. Her character reveals complexity as she deals with the effects of her husband's behavior.

**Nathalie Guéymard**  
Gretel's mother, serving as a contrast to Gretel's character. Her actions and inability to confront their past highlight Gretel's journey.

**Cait**  
A vibrant woman Gretel meets on her way to Australia, important for her humorous and independent nature. She shares a secret that sparks Gretel's contemplation of her own past.

**Edgar Fernsby**  
Gretel's husband, a historian with an ironic connection to her hidden past. His relationship with Gretel roots her existence in a broader historical context.

**David Rotheram**  
Gretel's romantic interest, who ultimately cannot reconcile her past with his personal trauma. His background amplifies the narrative's emotional complexity.

**Émile Vannier and Rémy Toussaint**  
Two French characters who pose as romantic interests to Gretel and Nathalie. Their true intents become apparent as the story unfolds.

**Shmuel**  
A young boy Gretel meets during her time at Auschwitz. He unintentionally highlights her ignorance of the atrocities surrounding her.

**Bruno**  
Gretel's younger brother, whose story symbolizes her silent past and trauma. His memory is a haunting presence throughout the narrative, marking Gretel's growth.

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Devil’s Daughter (London 2022 / Paris 1946)”

Part 1, Chapters 1-11

All the Broken Places Part 1, Chapters 1-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapter 12-Interlude 1

All the Broken Places Part 1, Chapter 12-Interlude 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Beautiful Scars (London 2022 / Sydney 1953)”

Part 2, Chapters 1-11

All the Broken Places Part 2, Chapters 1-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapter 12-Interlude 2

All the Broken Places Part 2, Chapter 12-Interlude 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Final Solution (London 2022, London 1953)”

Part 3, Chapters 1-9

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Part 3, Chapter 10-Author’s Note

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