A heart-wrenching tale of love and loss (and love again!) based on real events during the occupation of Guernsey, a British island, during WWII.

Taking place shortly after the end of WWII, a successful London-based author named Juliet Ashton finds herself on a journey of self-discovery after a letter arrives in the mail from a book club, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. The book club, formed by accident to prevent its members from being arrested by German officers after an illegal dinner party during the occupation of Guernsey, invites Juliet to visit their island. Once there, and intrigued by their story, she decides to write a book based on their experiences during WWII. Based on the real-life German occupation of the British island of Guernsey, the movie weaves a stunning tale of hope, love, and forgiveness in the face of adversity.

Truth be told, I have watched this movie multiple times. I was skeptical at first because it’s a book adaption, and those are always hit or miss, but I was NOT disappointed! Not only is it beautifully directed with a talented cast (fans of Downtown Abbey will recognize several notable actors), but the costumes and settings are true to life during the reconstruction period after WWII.I grew up reading historical fiction and romance novels, so I never shy away from a period piece, but this movie was so vivid that it wasn’t even my favorite part. I’m also a history enthusiast, so anything related to WWI and WWII is right up my alley, but this movie’s themes still felt relevant to today. The movie is surprisingly complex, with several major story lines that brought me to tears or made me break out in laughter. Led by a strong, mostly female cast, the movie highlights the role women played in the occupation and the repercussions the war had on their homes and families.