There Was Still Love

In the midst of war, hate, and love, three different stories unfold in Prague, Melbourne, and Melbourne in 1938, 1980, and 1980, respectively. The characters face challenges and hardships, but they also find hope and connection. The book explores the themes of loss, resilience, and the power of love to overcome adversity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 22 October 2020
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

A captivating tale woven by a masterful storyteller, this book resonates with profound humanity. It sings with a chorus of emotions that touch the depths of the soul.

Sarah Winman, the acclaimed author of this extraordinary work, has been honored with multiple prestigious awards, including the Australian Indie Book Award in 2020, where it claimed the titles of Book of the Year and Fiction Book of the Year. Additionally, it found itself on the shortlist for the esteemed Stella Prize in 2020.

Set against the backdrop of three distinct time periods—Prague in 1938, Melbourne in 1980, and Melbourne in 1980—this novel weaves a tapestry of interconnected lives, each with its own unique struggles and triumphs.

In 1938, Eva, a young woman navigating the streets of Prague, encounters a man who abruptly steps out in front of her. In a moment of panic, she collides with him, causing her to fall to the ground hard. As she regains her senses, she notices that his hat has fallen into the gutter. However, it is the man's anger that initially strikes her, but it is his hatred that holds the power to shape their destinies. The looming shadow of war casts a dark cloud over their lives, forcing countless individuals to pack their belongings into small, brown suitcases, ready to embark on a journey of uncertainty and hardship.

In 1980, Ludek, a young boy, finds himself hidden beneath a heavy blanket that envelops the city. The fear that grips the hearts of others fails to reach him, for he is shielded by an unbreakable sense of freedom. Ludek possesses a keen eye for observation, witnessing the world around him with a detached curiosity. He cares little for the consequences that the world may bring, for his heart is consumed by the love he holds for Babi, his soulmate. Babi is his entire world, and he eagerly awaits her warm embrace in their cozy flat, where they can create a life filled with warmth, love, and the cherished memories of Prague and the loved ones left behind.

In 1980, Mala Liska, a granddaughter, climbs the stairs to her third-floor flat accompanied by her grandmother. The air within is suffused with the comforting aroma of warm pipe tobacco and homemade cakes, creating a sense of familiarity and warmth. Mana and Bill, her parents, have built a life for themselves and their granddaughter, infusing it with the spirit of Prague and the memories of the loved ones they have lost. Despite the hardships and challenges they face, they hold onto the belief that love is an unwavering force that can transcend any obstacle.

Through the lives of Eva, Ludek, and Mala Liska, this novel explores the themes of resilience, love, and the enduring power of memory. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope and the possibility of a brighter future. It is a testament to the human spirit's enduring strength and the capacity for compassion and connection.

A beautifully crafted book that will leave a lasting impression on readers, "The Nightingale" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the profound impact that literature can have on our lives.

Weight: 162g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529343571