63 pages • 2 hours read
Lovely War
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Book Brief
470
Novel • Fiction
Europe • 1910s
2019
YA
14-18 years
HL650L
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.
Romantic
Emotional
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
63,201 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
63,201 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
James Aldridge
James Aldridge
A 19-year-old from Chelmsford who serves as a sniper in the British armed forces during World War I. He has a profound relationship with Hazel, whom he meets at a parish dance in London.
Colette Fournier
Colette Fournier
A Belgian woman with a soulful singing voice who volunteers at the YMCA camp in France during World War I. She forms a connection with Hazel and later falls in love with Aubrey.
Aubrey Edwards
Aubrey Edwards
A talented ragtime pianist who plays with the New York 15th National Guard band, also known as the Harlem Hellfighters. He befriends Hazel and develops a romantic relationship with Colette during his service in France.
Aphrodite
Aphrodite
The goddess of love who can take human form and observes the relationships of mortals. She reflects on love through the stories of Hazel and James, and Aubrey and Colette.
470
Novel • Fiction
Europe • 1910s
2019
YA
14-18 years
HL650L
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