The Things We Cherished; Pam Jenoff

ARC

Publisher: Doubleday (July 12, 2011)

Language: English

Synopsis

An ambitious novel that spans decades and continents, The Things We Cherished tells the story of Charlotte Gold and Jack Harrington, two fiercely independent attorneys who find themselves slowly falling for one another while working to defend the brother of a Holocaust hero against allegations of World War II–era war crimes.

The defendant, wealthy financier Roger Dykmans, mysteriously refuses to help in his own defense, revealing only that proof of his innocence lies within an intricate timepiece last seen in Nazi Germany. As the narrative moves from Philadelphia to Germany, Poland, and Italy, we are given glimpses of the lives that the anniversary clock has touched over the past century, and learn about the love affair that turned a brother into a traitor.

Rich in historical detail, Jenoff’s astonishing new work is a testament to true love under the worst of circumstances.

My Review

Being accused of a war crime is no walk in the park, it's also tough when you won't speak on your own behalf. If he won't speak that must mean he has something to hide. What they find out even shocked me.

  Charlotte, well she was intelligent and seemed to be a right fit for her job. She did tend to over think situations. I didn't like that even after a her heart was saying Jack that she would entertain the idea of her old flame, Jack's brother Brian. Jack's character was honorable and stern, a little gruff around the edges. A character you like trying to figure out, he does draw you in.

The history and the flash backs were incredibly well written. The calamity of what is in the past bleeds off the paper. It was painfully wonderful to read. Pam Jenoff really has a way of capturing raw emotions with words.  I won't go into details but your past doesn't always stay your past. Jenoff managed to blend past and present with superb detail.
It's quite funny how she portrayed Polish people. I have on many occasions seen them drink till their hearts are content and the next morning be up and about as the night before never happened. (Polish Husband)
The Things We Cherished captured historical tragedies, with the hope of better tomorrows in the future. Highly recommendable to those who need a little romance with their history.
Find Pam Jenoff here