I can't think of a more perfect depiction of the Blitz that I've encountered. Beautifully told, with respect for the reality of war and the requisite melancholy given the subject matter, Cleave also managed to imbue the dialogue with the wit and stuff-upper-lip humour that helped to get the inhabitants of London through the war. This isn't a page-turning thriller, but rather a book to be savoured. 
 The author's note at the end, which outlines Cleave's grandparents experiences during the war, was also quite moving and added to the meaning of the novel for me.