Though this book held me sufficiently to want to finish it, the main characters, Isabel and Eva we’re difficult to genuinely believe or care about. Somehow, they remain caricatures for me rather than true characters. I also felt that the ending was somewhat contrived and predictable.

This book was fantastic. I could not put it down. The writing is concise, thrilling and not one word is wasted. I've read so many books about WWII and this was such an interesting viewpoint to consider.

just wonderful

An easy read, evocative and erotic, almost to the point of being a turn off - but the twist and its development makes it deserving of the Short List.

My goodness what an absolutely beautiful treasure of a novel. The characters were all brilliantly drawn, the words like poetry and the plot was perfection from beginning to end. I cannot adequately describe, in words, how wonderful this novel is. Bravo.

The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden is a captivating and emotionally charged debut novel that explores themes of desire, obsession, and the lingering effects of war. Set in the rural Dutch province of Overijssel in 1961, the story revolves around Isabel, a solitary woman living in her late mother's country home, and Eva, her brother's new girlfriend who unexpectedly arrives to stay with Isabel. Gripping Character Dynamics Van der Wouden masterfully crafts the complex dynamic between Isabel and Eva, two contrasting personalities forced into close proximity. Isabel, rigid and obsessive, finds her routines and control over the household disrupted by Eva's carefree and disrespectful attitude towards the property[1][3]. This tension builds into an intense, almost obsessive fascination, leading Isabel to develop a fury-fueled desire for Eva[4]. Unexpected Twists and Revelations As the narrative progresses, the story takes an unexpected turn, revealing Eva's true motives and the haunting secrets of the house's past[1][3]. The final chapters, told from Eva's perspective through journal entries, provide crucial insights and a riveting climax that answers lingering questions[1]. Powerful Prose and Emotional Depth Van der Wouden's prose is rich and evocative, capturing the nuances of human relationships and the weight of historical trauma[3][4]. The novel's exploration of the aftermath of World War II and the lingering impact of the German occupation adds depth and poignancy to the emotional core of the story[4]. Conclusion The Safekeep is a haunting and beautifully crafted debut that immerses readers in a world of passion, obsession, and the complexities of human nature. Van der Wouden's ability to weave a compelling narrative, coupled with her nuanced character development and powerful prose, makes this novel a must-read for fans of literary fiction[1][3][4].