You know that I am a big fan of historical fiction so the sound of The Helsingør Sewing Club by Ella Gyland really appealed to me. We went to Denmark on our honeymoon back in 2008 and totally fell in love with the country. I was excited to learn more about its role in the Second World War.

The Helsingør Sewing Club by Ella Gyland

Inspired by the incredible true story of how the people of Denmark saved their Jewish neighbours during the Second World War.

Helsingør, Denmark, 1943

In the midst of the German occupation during World War Two, Inger Bredhal joins the underground resistance and risks her life to save members of Denmark’s Jewish community and help them escape to Sweden.

Copenhagen, 2018

Inger’s granddaughter, Cecilie Lund, is mourning her death when a mysterious discovery while cleaning out Inger’s flat leads past and present to intersect. As long-held secrets finally see the light of day, Cecilie learns the story of her grandmother’s courage and bravery, and of the power of friendship, love, and standing for what’s right…even when you have everything to lose.

The Helsingør Sewing Club is an inspiring tale of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. I loved reading it and finding out more about the main characters. I really liked the fact it was set during the Second World War and current day, following the journey of both Inger and her grand-daughter Cecilie. Some bits were upsetting but definitely added to the suspense of the story.

You may be interested in other reviews of historical fiction:

Daughters of War by Dinah Jefferies

Shadows over the Spanish Sun by Caroline Montague

The Dream Weavers by Barbara Erskine