The Lovely War, by Julie Berry

 War is not lovely, unless it is the backdrop for a pair of love stories told by author Julie Berry. Narrated by Aphrodite and Ares, the goddess of love and the god of war, respectively, four people navigate the horrors of World War 1, racism, family, love and loss, and the definition of "home" in this beautifully told story. I have not read a Berry book before, but would look for her at the library after reading The Lovely War. The way she tells this story is creative and unique, and the writing flows wonderfully, even if the chapters get a little choppy at times. If you enjoy better-than-average romance stories, you must read this! If you like historical fiction, especially war fiction, this may appeal to you as well, as the details of WW1 are more than most YA books I've read. Even if you enjoy mythology, you'll likely appreciate the narration in this story, even if it's the backdrop for the main themes. Not for every middle age reader, this one will appeal to stronger readers at the upper ends of middle school and into high school. If you fall into those categories, do yourself a favor and read this! 5 paws!