One of the best books I've read this year. It completely blew me away. The concept itself was a bit bold and might cause hesitation for specific readers. Hell, even I hesitated to pick up this book. When I found this on netgalley, I wasn't sure of it and despite my younger sister's discouragement (she HATES WWII stories excluding Night) I read the first 30 pages...and stopped.
By that time, I got my hands on the hardcover book itself. I'm so glad I didn't give up on this. This is truly one unique story and told in a queer but not unlikable perspective. I admit, it's not for everyone, people will tend to falter when dealing with war, torture (yes, torture), friendship in the face of malignant enemies and life-changing choices. This is not a book one can read through easily. Sometimes it is hard to go through certain passages and I certainly did cry an awful lot through Part 2. Don't expect a happy ending for all and the book description gives fair warning already.
But I guarantee you, there is a bit for everyone and never will you come across another book like this.