Tattooist of Auschwitz - Heather Morris, 2018

The tattooist of Auschwitz tells the story of Slovakian Jew, Lale Sokolov who was transported to Auschwitz concentration camp. Whilst their he became the head tattooist, whose job was tattoo numbers onto the arms of incoming prisoners. Whilst their he fell in love with Gita and he spent his time and used his privileged position as head tattooer to protect her and as many other prisoners as he could. Heather Morris spent several years hearing Lale tell his story and thiis book tells the truly harrowing yet gripping tale of Lale and Gita's love story.

Whilst reading the story I found myself tearing up more than once whilst reading how much this fledging relationship had to endure and I just had to keep reading to find out they would make it out alive and end up together. It is beautifully told by Morris and it is clear she truly cared about Lale and getting a story across he would be proud of. There are some really graphic and horrific stories but they are important to get across the true situation that Lale, Gita and the others featured in this book, would have to endure on a near daily basis. Morris did not shy away from writing about these aspects of Auschwitz and it only helps to make this book a true reflection of what happened.

The one criticism I do have of this book is the lack of character depth. Lale is portrayed well and it is clear that the author knew him well, was even his friend. But as for the other people in the book you find yourself struggling to really know who they were, what there personality was and why they were part of Lale's story. I really enjoyed this book and for anyone who wants a story that is a little deeper and darker than your normal romance I would highly recommend it.

Rating - 3.5 Snapping Turtles