Once We Were Here: A Novel

As World War II intrudes upon their home, three young friends risk everything for freedom, love, and a chance at a better life.

On October 28, 1940, Mussolini gives Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas an ultimatum: either allow Axis forces to occupy their country, or face war. Greece’s response is swift. “Oxi!” they say. “No!”

In a village nestled against the radiant waters of the Aegean Sea live Alexei, the son of a local fisherman, and his best friend Costa, who were both born on the same...