V2 by Robert Harris

A fascinating look at the development and use of the V2 rockets by the Germans during the Second World War. Highly detailed and informative, the story is from two perspectives: the young German who reluctantly is involved with the V2 and the bombing of London, and an English woman, based in Belgium, who is trying to decipher where the bombs will land and how to prevent the damage and loss of life.

The story takes place over five intense days in November 1944, explicitly tracking the terrifying moment when the world's first supersonic ballistic missiles rain down on the capital. London is the ultimate emotional and structural anchor to the whole novel though.

Both of the central characters share the idea that neither of them are comfortable in their surroundings, feeling as though they don't fit in. The German engineer wanted to put a rocket on the moon, not destroy London. The English woman is having an affair with her married senior, which creates added tension and awkwardness, especially as the affair becomes public knowledge. The affair isn't a significant feature as ultimately, this is the story of the V2 with a perfect blend of fact and fiction, with a seamless description of life at that time.

Harris is a great storyteller and it is easy to get caught up in the tale because of his  excellent writing style. However, V2 is classed as a thriller, which it isn't, not until the last quarter of the book. A great read for those who are interested in the use and development of the V2.​

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Published by Random House, Cornerstone, Hutchinson on 17 September 2020.
Advance review copy supplied by the publisher.

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Capital Chronicles: London Through Time ​