I hadn't even read the synopsis yet when I realized I wanted to read this book. This is one of the rare instances when a book cover completely sold me. The use of the clock just really stood out to me. Thankfully, this turned out to be a compelling historical fiction read which was worthy of a good cover.
It's 1946 and Grace Healey is working in Manhattan after losing her husband during the war. While at Grand Central terminal she discovers a suitcase containing photographs. She soon learns the suitcase belongs to Eleanor Trigg, the leader of a group of female secret agents in London who were sent out on missions as radio operators and couriers during World War 2. Twelve of the women never returned home and what happened to them remains a mystery until Grace decides to go looking for answers. This is a story inspired by real life events and courageous women.
I read one of the author's other books, The Orphan's Tale, recently and while I did enjoy it I struggled at times connecting with the characters. With this book I found it much easier to feel for the characters because the story line during the war is so high stakes and intense it's hard not to feel like you are right there with them. And Grace is also someone to root for as she is trying to make it on her own after the death of her husband. I thought the back and forth timelines during and after the war provided a nice balance to the story. For me the real heart of the story was the importance of not letting these brave women be forgotten.
While the book might not be among my all time favorites for World War 2 historical fiction it is definitely a solid read and worthy of your time if you enjoy the genre.
Thank you to BookishFirst and the publisher for sending me a free advance copy!
It's 1946 and Grace Healey is working in Manhattan after losing her husband during the war. While at Grand Central terminal she discovers a suitcase containing photographs. She soon learns the suitcase belongs to Eleanor Trigg, the leader of a group of female secret agents in London who were sent out on missions as radio operators and couriers during World War 2. Twelve of the women never returned home and what happened to them remains a mystery until Grace decides to go looking for answers. This is a story inspired by real life events and courageous women.
I read one of the author's other books, The Orphan's Tale, recently and while I did enjoy it I struggled at times connecting with the characters. With this book I found it much easier to feel for the characters because the story line during the war is so high stakes and intense it's hard not to feel like you are right there with them. And Grace is also someone to root for as she is trying to make it on her own after the death of her husband. I thought the back and forth timelines during and after the war provided a nice balance to the story. For me the real heart of the story was the importance of not letting these brave women be forgotten.
While the book might not be among my all time favorites for World War 2 historical fiction it is definitely a solid read and worthy of your time if you enjoy the genre.
Thank you to BookishFirst and the publisher for sending me a free advance copy!