One Good Thing
A Novel
by Georgia Hunter
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Pub Date Mar 04 2025 | Archive Date May 03 2025
PENGUIN GROUP Viking Penguin | Pamela Dorman Books
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Description
1940, Italy. Lili and Esti have been best friends since they first met at university. When Esti’s son Theo is born, they become as close as sisters. While a war seethes across borders, life somehow goes on—until Germany invades Italy, and the friends suddenly find themselves in occupied territory
Esti, older and fiercely self-assured, convinces Lili to join the resistance efforts. But when disaster strikes, a critically wounded Esti asks Lili to take a much bigger step: To go on the run with Theo. Protect him while Esti can’t.
Terrified to travel on her own, Lili sets out with Theo on a harrowing journey south toward Allied territory, braving Nazi-occupied villages and bombed-out cities, doing everything she can to keep the boy safe.
A remarkable tale of friendship, romance, motherhood, and survival, One Good Thing reminds us what is worth fighting for—and that love, even amidst a world in ruins, can triumph.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781984880932 |
| PRICE | $30.00 (USD) |
| PAGES | 432 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Reviewer 1547974
If I could give a book 6 stars there’d be no question about this one. I loved “We Were the Lucky Ones” and was so excited to get this book as an ARC on NetGalley! This book provides a great insight into Italy in WW2 and the tumultuous political turmoil the country went through during that time. I loved the story of Lili & Esti and friendship through war and just one avenue of what loving your people looks like. 1000% a must read and I’ll buy this one anyways!
Jessie H, Educator
Somehow I was not expecting to be so swept away by One Good Thing. Hunter creates an amazing sense of place, transporting readers to World War II Italy. I felt the sting of each goodbye Lili and Theo make just a little bit more than the last. I needed to reach the end but feared where the characters were going to find. One Good Thing is a worthy follow up to We Were The Lucky Ones.
Librarian 253116
Just when I thought I couldn't read another book about WWII, this one captured my heart. Not only does one get a sense of place, but also can feel so strongly about these two young women. I couldn't put it down and highly recommend this tragic and heartwarming novel.
Kelly H, Reviewer
When WWII reaches the Italian front, dear friends Lili and Esti find themselves in grave danger under Mussolini’s laws, which have made life perilous for Jews. With Esti’s young son in tow, the friends embark on a treacherous journey in search of safety. The strong character development and vivid setting make this slower-paced story a very worthwhile read. One Good Thing is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring strength of friendship.
Read this if you:
-are eager to read more from the author of We Were the Lucky Ones
-feel inundated with WWII stories–this is a standout
-appreciate well-researched and beautifully written historical fiction
Many thanks to Viking and NetGalley for an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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