I enjoyed the story quite a bit, but I had a few problems with the writing. First, Gerta's intelligence seems to vary based on what's most dramatic at the moment. None of the characters are very well developed, but this was the most glaring example.

Second, every story needs conflict but I felt like several of the conflicts in this book were only there for the sake of adding drama or an unexpected twist. Many of the problems the characters faced only seemed to prolong the book rather than advancing the plot in any way. Escaping a totalitarian regime doesn't really need conflict just for the sake of conflict or drama just for the sake of drama.

However, if there's a sequel about how Gerta and her family adapt to life in the west, I will definitely read it.