I recently finished reading The Resistance Daughter by Joanne Kormylo, a debut historical fiction novel inspired by true stories from World War II. Being a fan of historical fiction, especially narratives that explore the human spirit amidst adversity, I was drawn to this book based on its premise: a young Polish woman, Anna Kowalski, who joins the resistance movement after her home in Warsaw is destroyed. Anna’s story of courage and resilience, as she works to smuggle children out of the Warsaw Ghetto, was compelling enough to pique my interest.
From the very first chapter, I was captivated by the richness of the setting and the emotional depth of the characters. Kormylo’s intricate detailing gave life to the backdrop of war-torn Poland, and the tension was palpable as Anna navigated the perils of her chosen path. The dual narratives of Anna and RAF pilot Johnnie Nowak struck a balance between the heartfelt and the harrowing. Their journey together, particularly when Anna is captured and sent to Ravensbrück, gripped me tightly and made for some heart-wrenching moments.
Many readers, including one who reflected on their personal connection to the war, noted how The Resistance Daughter evoked strong emotions. This sentiment resonated with me as well; the book indeed brought me to tears several times. The author’s ability to capture humanity in its darkest hours while still infusing a sense of hope was awe-inspiring. I appreciated the praise this work has received, with one reviewer stating, “It brought me to tears more than once,” encapsulates the emotional weight of the narrative.
However, while the book excels in its character development and moving storytelling, I also noted some critiques that seem to echo across various reviews. For instance, some readers found elements of the plot improbable or lacking in authenticity, particularly regarding certain character choices that felt perhaps contrived given the high stakes. Although these points didn’t drastically affect my enjoyment, they were noticeable. A reviewer expressed this concern, suggesting that the author could have benefitted from examining the works of literary greats like Hemingway in terms of character development and style.
Moreover, while the book provides a gripping insight into the Polish resistance and the plight of WWII prisoners, I felt that certain portions leaned heavily into melodrama at times. Yet, I can also see how this was likely intentional, as it aimed to amplify the emotional stakes.
Kormylo’s meticulous research shines through the story, particularly in her portrayal of the underground efforts to save children from Nazi persecution. One review that caught my eye praised it as “the most realistic, factual and mind-grabbing account” the reader has encountered regarding that era. I wholly agree with this sentiment; Kormylo crafted a narrative that feels both authentic and insightful, shedding light on a significant yet often overlooked aspect of World War II history.
In summary, The Resistance Daughter is a compelling and emotional read that successfully marries fact with fiction. The themes of courage, love, and survival amidst despair are brought to life through the lens of two unforgettable characters. Despite some pacing issues and moments of character decisions that could be questioned, Kormylo’s debut is largely satisfying. I would certainly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a poignant tale set against the backdrop of one of history’s most tragic periods. Overall, I would rate this book a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars, and I look forward to what Kormylo produces next.