Set in Carcassonne during WWII, Citadel by Kate Mosse explores the history, legends & secrets of Languedoc. This is a powerful story about courage, loyalty & betrayal packed with action & mystery. The novel follows the young heroine Sandrine, her secret ‘ Citadel’ network, & the characters involved in the struggle under the German occupation. The background is provided by a rich history of the region & an ancient legend about a heretical text that becomes the reason behind torture, murder & treason. The vivid action scenes & the poignant detailed observations of daily lives bring the sacrifices & horror of the struggle to life. This book can be read as the concluding part of a trilogy set in the south west of France, & readers of the previous instalments will find some recurrent themes & characters. Nevertheless, the novel stands perfectly well on its own. Citadel is a remarkable story of courage & people fighting for their beliefs, entwined with romance & mysticism. The unremitting tension & high emotions, marking the story that unravels in a powerful historical background, make this book a page turner.