Book Review: The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
When I first stumbled upon The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer, I knew I had to dive in—drawn not only by the beautiful cover but by the promise of history intertwined with love and heartache. Rimmer, known for her gripping narratives, has a gift for pulling us into the emotional depths of her characters, and this novel is no exception. From its very first pages, I was captivated by the dual timelines that revealed a rich tapestry of family secrets echoing through generations.
Set against the harrowing backdrop of WWII, the story follows Alina Dziak, a young woman living in Nazi-occupied Poland, and Alice, her granddaughter in modern-day America. Alina dreams of marrying her childhood sweetheart, Tomasz, but the realities of war shatter her idyllic life and mark her with a longing that resonates through time. Rimmer does a brilliant job of showcasing the damaging silence that can seep into families, often burrowing deep into our identities.
Through Alina, I felt the weight of loss and hope, and the fierce determination to uncover the truth about her family’s past. The narrative swings back and forth between her wartime struggles and Alice’s frantic search for answers as her own family grapples with its legacy. It made me ponder how our histories shape us and how often the stories we hold close remain untold, just waiting to be reclaimed.
Rimmer’s writing is as lyrical as it is poignant. Her ability to draw vivid imagery coupled with raw emotion had me laughing, crying, and ultimately reflecting on my own familial ties. I found myself physically unable to put the book down, especially during the emotionally charged moments that foreshadowed revelation. One particularly haunting line encapsulated the essence of the book: "The truth is rarely simple, yet it binds us fiercely to those we love." This sentiment lingered with me long after reading, reminding me of the complexities of familial love.
Many readers have echoed my sentiments, highlighting how The Things We Cannot Say resonates with fans of historical fiction, and I wholeheartedly agree. It’s heartwarming to see this book compared to beloved novels like The Nightingale and Lilac Girls, as it similarly marries heart-wrenching truths with an inspiring sense of hope.
However, some may find the pacing a tad slow at first as Rimmer meticulously sets the stage and builds layers of character depth. Still, I see this as a necessary choice that ultimately elevates the reader’s experience—allowing us to grow as invested in Alice’s contemporary challenges as we do in Alina’s historical tribulations.
If you’re looking for a book that deftly blends history with heartfelt storytelling, The Things We Cannot Say is an absolute must-read. It’s a reminder of the strength of family ties and the unbreakable spirit of love. Whether you’re a history buff or a romantic at heart, this novel will leave you reflecting on the stories we carry with us and the truths we may still need to face.
As I closed the final chapter, I found myself contemplating my own family’s tales—ones that could use a voice. Rimmer has truly gifted us an unshakable reminder that, while we may often silence our deepest truths, they ultimately shape who we are and who we aspire to be. So, grab some tissues and prepare for an emotional journey; you won’t regret it.