The Girl from Guernica

The Girl from Guernica by Karen Robards

The Girl from Guernica by Karen Robards is a captivating and emotionally charged novel set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War. The story begins on an April day in 1937, when the German Condor Legion bombs the town of Guernica, devastating the city and its inhabitants. Among the chaos and destruction, young Sibi (Sybil) and her family are caught in the horrors of the attack. With the city burning and civilians deliberately targeted, Sibi's world is torn apart.

In the midst of the destruction, Griff, an American military attaché, risks his life to pull Sibi from the wreckage and saves her several times over the course of just a few hours. Tragically, her mother and sister are killed in the bombing, and Sibi’s father, Conrad Hellinger, manages to escape with her and the rest of their family, seeking refuge in Nazi Germany.

The narrative shifts to Berlin, where Sibi, now determined to survive at all costs, offers to spy for Griff, despite the growing dangers around her. What unfolds is a gripping tale of espionage, resilience, and the brutality of war. Through Sibi’s eyes, readers witness the stark realities of survival in a world scarred by conflict, while also witnessing the strength of family bonds and the courage of women in wartime.

The Girl from Guernica is not just a war story; it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who lived through history’s darkest hours. Robards weaves an intricate tale of intrigue and deception, bringing to life a young woman’s journey through the perilous and often heartbreaking choices of war. This book is an enthralling read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction filled with suspense, emotion, and an unwavering sense of hope amidst adversity.

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Christopher (Reading Circle Participant)