For our first episode, we explored Ruta Sepetys’ historical fiction novel, ‘Between Shades of Gray.’ Unlike most historical fiction novels, this book revolves around the mass genocide of the Baltic States at the hands of the Soviet Union, and there’s tons to cover! We go in-depth about some key features that make this novel so impactful. We talk about the significance of the title, writing, themes, and characterisation, all of which come together to create such a beautiful story.