Savaged Lands

Lana Kortchik’s historical fiction book “Savaged Lands” is set in World War II. The narrative centers on two teenage sisters, Natasha and Lisa Smirnova, whose lives drastically alter when Hitler sends his army into Ukraine. The sisters encounter danger, starvation, and fear as the Red Army withdraws.

Lisa’s intentions for marriage under occupation turn disastrous, and Natasha develops feelings for Mark, a Hungarian soldier conscripted in the Nazi army. Throughout this tragic time, the book depicts the tragedies and hopes of common Kyivans, showing their fight to endure famine and despotism.