Product Description

It is 1943, the German army has been defeated at Stalingrad, and the tide is beginning to turn. But on occupied Guernsey, the reality of war seems a lifetime away. Recreating life on the occupied island, this novel asks questions about collaboration and the nature of war.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #42826 in Books
• Published on: 1999-05-07
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 368 pages

Customer Reviews

My all time favourite novel!
A who-dunnit set against the backdrop of Nazi occupation of part of the British Isles, Guernsey. As with most fine novels, the plot is of less importance than the central themes running through this masterpiece. The main theme, to my mind, is a discussion about the rule of law - an English bobby is forced to solve a murder under the Nazi rule.

I have to admit that I read this novel over five years ago, so the details are somewhat hazy, but I always offer this as my favourite novel to anyone who cares to ask. And, therefore, was somewhat miffed at the review below. Island Madness will probably not be your favourite novel, but it is well worth a read, and it was recommended to me.

Who's collaborating and who's not? Who are the enemy?
A fascinating study of occupation in the channel islands. In a world where the German soldiers and construction officers are in command, the power on the island shifts to the women - much in demand by the Germans. Trasitional male pillars like the island's police are imasculated. The island's womens mark their status by the rank and influence of their German lovers. Meanwhile, the reader is challenged with the question "who exactly is the enemy". Some of the Germans are humane and many of the islanders are very definitely not. A fantastic and complex read!

A fascinating and thought provoking story.
Tales set in countries occupied by enemy forces during the second world war have been told many times. The occupation of Guernsey by German forces and it's effect on the small population is the basis of "Island Madness". This is a murder mystery and love story which draws together all the characters,friends and enemies alike.In a non-judgemental manner the author describes how the lives of ordinary people can change under abnormal circumstances. I found it fascinating and thought provoking.