With a foray into more recent history than Simon Scarrow’s previous novels, the Greek Resistance in World War Two is brought vividly and violently to life in ‘Hearts of Stone’. The prologue set in 1938 highlights three young friends (two Greek and one German) on an archaeological dig, from then on in, the book switches between 2013 and the war years of 1940 and 1943. The three main characters are tossed into a sea of conflict, it feels as though they have little choice in the decisions and actions they take. The writing is quite matter of fact and not overly descriptive, giving the impression of a truthful recounting rather than a work of fiction. The chapters set in 2013 create a natural pause between the tales of the battling friends and also slaps your awareness with how quickly the world moves on, yet stays in many ways exactly the same. This is an action packed novel full of interest, it also contains a hushed stillness and encourages thought and reflection making for a captivating read. ~ Liz Robinson
The fierce courage of the men and women of the Greek Resistance is brought to vivid life in Sunday Times bestseller Simon Scarrow's powerful new novel of World War II. 1938. A perfect summer on the Greek island of Lefkas for three young people untroubled by the simmering politics of Europe. Peter, visiting from Germany while his father leads an archaeological dig, has become close friends with locals Andreas and Eleni. As the world slides towards conflict and Peter is forced to leave, they swear to meet again. 1943: Andreas and Eleni have joined the partisan forces resisting the German invasion. Peter has returned - now a dangerously well-informed enemy intelligence officer. A friendship formed in peace will turn into a desperate battle between enemies sworn to sacrifice everything for the countries that they love...
Praise for Simon Scarrow's highly acclaimed novels:
'Gripping... ferocious and compelling, it is a story of blood, romance and sacrifice' Daily Express
'Scarrow's [novels] rank with the best' Independent
'I really don't need this kind of competition... It's a great read' Bernard Cornwell
'A rip-roaring page-turner... Sturdy elegance and incisive wit' Historical Novel Review
'A fast-moving and exceptionally well-paced historical thriller' BBC History Magazine
Author
About Simon Scarrow
Simon Scarrow is a Sunday Times No. 1 bestselling author. His bestsellers include his earlier novels featuring Roman soldiers Macro and Cato, most recently Praetorian and The Legion, as well as Sword and Scimitar, about the 1565 Siege of Malta, and four novels about the lives of the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon Bonaparte - Young Bloods, The Generals, Fire and Sword and The Fields of Death. He is the author with T. J. Andrew s of the bestselling Arena. Simon's novels have been published in the USA and in translation all around the world.
