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63 pages 2 hours read

Julie Berry

Lovely War

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Lovely War by Julie Berry, Greek goddess Aphrodite, accused of infidelity, recounts the romantic stories of two couples during World War I to explain her actions. James and Hazel fall in love before James is shipped off to war, while Hazel meets Colette, a Belgian volunteer, and Aubrey, an African American jazz musician. Through trials of love and war, their lives intertwine, culminating in deeply moving experiences of redemption and human connection. This novel references racial prejudice, violence, and trauma.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Julie Berry's Lovely War is acclaimed for its inventive narrative style, blending romance, mythology, and historical fiction set during WWI and WWII. Readers praise its emotional depth, distinct character voices, and rich historical detail. Some critiques mention a slow pace and occasional predictability. Nonetheless, Berry's unique storytelling captivates most readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lovely War?

Readers who enjoy historical romance with a touch of mythology will love Lovely War by Julie Berry. Fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will appreciate the blend of magical realism, lyrical prose, and poignant storytelling set against the backdrop of World War I.

Book Details
Pages

470

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1910s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL650L

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