20 best books on women in wwii – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you fascinated by the remarkable stories of women in WWII? Look no further! We have curated a list of the top 20 books on women in WWII that will transport you back in time and introduce you to the incredible heroines who played a vital role during this tumultuous period. From spies and resistance fighters to nurses and pilots, these books will uncover the untold stories of courage, resilience, and sacrifice. Get ready to be inspired by these extraordinary women in WWII books!


The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale is an extraordinary tale of courage, resilience, and sacrifice set against the backdrop of World War II. This gripping book on women in WWII follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the treacherous realities of occupied France.

Vianne, a quiet and dutiful wife, finds herself forced to make impossible choices to protect her family and keep them alive. Isabelle, rebellious and adventurous, joins the French Resistance, risking her life to fight against the Nazi occupation. As the war intensifies, their bond is tested, and they must summon the strength to survive in a world where women’s roles are often overlooked.

Kristin Hannah masterfully weaves a tale of love, loss, and the indomitable spirit of women. With vivid prose and compelling characters, this book about women in WWII transports readers to a time when ordinary women became extraordinary heroes. The Nightingale is a testament to the bravery and resilience of women during one of the darkest periods in history.

Prepare to be captivated by this powerful women in WWII book that will leave you breathless and in awe of the incredible strength and determination displayed by women during the war. The Nightingale is a poignant reminder of the untold stories of women who played a vital role in shaping the outcome of World War II.

Code Name Verity

by Elizabeth Wein

Code Name Verity is an electrifying and heart-wrenching book about the incredible bravery and resilience of women during World War II. Set in Nazi-occupied France, this gripping novel follows the intertwined lives of two courageous young women, as they navigate the treacherous landscape of espionage and sacrifice. With its vivid portrayal of friendship, loyalty, and the indomitable spirit of women in the face of adversity, Code Name Verity is a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating and empowering story about the unsung heroes of World War II.

The Alice Network

by Kate Quinn

The Alice Network by Kate Quinn is a captivating book about women in WWII that takes readers on a thrilling journey through espionage, bravery, and resilience. Set in both 1915 and 1947, this historical fiction novel weaves together the stories of two remarkable women, Eve Gardiner and Charlie St. Clair, who are connected by the enigmatic Alice Network.

Lilac Girls

by Martha Hall Kelly

Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly is a captivating book that delves into the lives of three remarkable individuals during World War II. Set in the backdrop of the war, this novel provides a unique perspective on the experiences of women during this tumultuous time. Through the eyes of a socialite, a Polish teenager, and a young German doctor, we witness the strength, resilience, and courage of these remarkable women.

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is an extraordinary book on women in WWII that takes readers on a heart-wrenching journey through the eyes of a young girl named Liesel. Set in Nazi Germany, this book about women in WWII showcases the resilience, bravery, and indomitable spirit of women during one of the darkest periods in history. Through the power of words, Liesel discovers solace and hope amidst the chaos and destruction that surrounds her. This captivating women in WWII book is a testament to the strength and courage of individuals who dare to defy the status quo and find light in the midst of darkness.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of a group of individuals on the island of Guernsey during World War II. Set in the aftermath of the war, this book takes readers on a journey through the lives of women who played significant roles during this tumultuous period.

The Invisible Bridge

by Julie Orringer

The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer is an exquisite and captivating book that transports readers into the turbulent world of World War II. Set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Europe, this powerful novel explores the lives of resilient and courageous individuals, including those who may have been overlooked in other historical accounts. Orringer’s masterful storytelling shines a spotlight on the untold stories of the strong and determined heroines who played an integral role in shaping the outcome of the war. This remarkable book is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the lives and experiences of the remarkable women who fought to make a difference during one of the darkest periods in history.

The Zookeeper’s Wife

by Diane Ackerman

The Zookeeper’s Wife by Diane Ackerman is a captivating book about women in World War II. Set amidst the chaos and destruction of Nazi-occupied Warsaw, this extraordinary true story follows the lives of Antonina Żabińska and her husband, Jan, who run the Warsaw Zoo.

As the war escalates, the Żabińskas find themselves facing unimaginable challenges. However, instead of succumbing to despair, they courageously decide to use their zoo as a hiding place for Jewish refugees. With ingenuity and determination, Antonina becomes a savior for countless lives, risking her own safety and that of her family.

Ackerman’s vivid and poetic prose transports readers back to this dark period in history, capturing the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Through the lens of Antonina Żabińska, readers gain a unique perspective on the horrors of war and the power of compassion.

The Zookeeper’s Wife is a remarkable book on women in WWII, shedding light on the often overlooked contributions and sacrifices made by women during this tumultuous time. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope and humanity can prevail.

The Women in the Castle

by Jessica Shattuck

The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck is a captivating book about women in WWII that delves into the untold stories of resilience and courage. Set in post-war Germany, this novel follows the lives of three extraordinary women who are bound together by the aftermath of the war.

The Lost Girls of Paris

by Pam Jenoff

The Lost Girls of Paris is a captivating book about women in WWII that will transport you back in time to the secret world of female spies. Set in the heart of World War II, this historical fiction novel by Pam Jenoff follows the lives of three remarkable women who become entangled in a web of espionage, danger, and sacrifice.

The Light Over London

by Julia Kelly

The Light Over London by Julia Kelly is a captivating book on women in WWII that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary lives of courageous females during one of the darkest periods in history. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this gripping tale immerses readers in the untold stories of resilient and determined women who fought against adversity with unwavering strength and unwritten heroism. Through its compelling narrative and vivid imagery, this book about women in WWII unveils the remarkable roles played by these unsung heroines, shedding light on their sacrifices, triumphs, and unbreakable spirit. A must-read for anyone eager to explore the untold stories of women in WWII, this meticulously researched and beautifully written novel will leave you inspired, moved, and forever changed.

The Secret Keeper

by Kate Morton

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the riveting world of the past? The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton is a captivating book that delves deep into the lives of courageous women during the tumultuous era of World War II.

This enthralling tale takes place in London during the Blitz, where secrets lie hidden beneath the rubble and uncertainty of war. The story revolves around a young girl named Laurel, who witnesses a shocking scene that leaves her haunted for decades. As an adult, Laurel becomes determined to uncover the truth behind that fateful day.

With its intricate plot and masterful storytelling, The Secret Keeper will transport you back to a time where women played a vital role in the war effort, their strength and resilience shining through even in the darkest of times. This book about women in WWII will keep you on the edge of your seat, as secrets are unraveled and hidden connections are revealed.

So, if you are seeking a riveting and evocative read that explores the triumphs and tribulations of women during World War II, look no further than The Secret Keeper. Dive into this mesmerizing tale and discover the untold stories of these remarkable individuals who shaped history with their bravery and determination.

The Baker’s Secret

by Stephen P. Kiernan

The Baker’s Secret by Stephen P. Kiernan is a captivating and poignant novel that delves into the hidden stories of courageous women during World War II. Set in a small French village under German occupation, this mesmerizing book explores the resilience and strength of those who were often overlooked in history. With its vivid descriptions and compelling characters, The Baker’s Secret sheds light on the untold experiences of women in the midst of war, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the incredible stories of those who fought for freedom.

The Paris Seamstress

by Natasha Lester

The Paris Seamstress is an extraordinary tale that takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of strong and resilient women during the tumultuous era of World War II. Set in both Paris and New York, this mesmerizing novel by Natasha Lester delves deep into the experiences of talented seamstresses, courageous spies, and determined fashion designers, all intertwined in a web of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.

This remarkable book on women in WWII showcases the strength and tenacity of these unsung heroes, highlighting their invaluable contributions to the war effort. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Lester brings to life the struggles and triumphs of women who played a pivotal role in shaping history.

With its rich historical backdrop and compelling characters, this book about women in WWII is a captivating read that will transport you to a bygone era and leave you in awe of the immense courage and resilience displayed by these remarkable women. Prepare to be enthralled by the stories of love, friendship, and bravery that unfold within the pages of The Paris Seamstress.

The Lost Wife

by Alyson Richman

The Lost Wife by Alyson Richman is a captivating book about women in WWII that will transport you to a world of love, loss, and resilience. Set against the backdrop of one of the darkest periods in history, this novel weaves together the lives of two young artists, Lenka and Josef, whose paths intersect in the most unexpected way.

The Girl from the Savoy

by Hazel Gaynor

Step back in time to the glamorous and tumultuous world of 1920s London in The Girl from the Savoy by Hazel Gaynor. This captivating novel takes readers on a journey through the lives of three remarkable women, each with their own dreams and desires.

Set against the backdrop of the aftermath of World War I, this book delves into the lives of women during this transformative period in history. From the suffragette movement to the roaring twenties, Gaynor paints a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced by women in this era.

Our protagonist, Dolly Lane, works as a chambermaid at the iconic Savoy Hotel, where she harbors dreams of becoming a famous actress. Through her eyes, we witness the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age, as well as the struggles faced by women in a society that often undervalues their worth.

As Dolly’s world intertwines with that of Loretta May, a former dancer recovering from the horrors of war, and Teddy Cooper, a young man haunted by his experiences on the battlefield, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. Love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams are all explored in this gripping tale.

With its rich historical detail and compelling characters, The Girl from the Savoy is a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of women during the tumultuous years of the early twentieth century. Gaynor’s writing is masterful, drawing the reader in and immersing them in the vibrant world she has created.

So, if you’re looking for a book that beautifully captures the spirit and resilience of women in World War I era, look no further than The Girl from the Savoy. Prepare to be swept away by this captivating story of love, ambition, and the power of dreams.

The Fire by Night

by Teresa Messineo

The Fire by Night: A Gripping Tale of Courage and Resilience

Embark on a riveting journey through the untold stories of brave female fighters during World War II. Teresa Messineo’s The Fire by Night is a powerful and captivating novel that sheds light on the extraordinary lives of women who defied societal norms to serve their countries on the frontlines.

In this remarkable book about women in WWII, Messineo unveils the hidden truths behind the heroic contributions made by these indomitable individuals. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, she paints a vivid picture of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs faced by these unsung heroes.

Set against the backdrop of the war-ravaged Europe and the Pacific, The Fire by Night follows two American nurses, Jo and Kay, as they navigate the horrors and heartaches of the battlefield. Despite the chaos and despair surrounding them, these women display unwavering bravery and compassion, risking their own lives to save others.

This enthralling book on women in WWII captures the unique challenges faced by these remarkable individuals, as they battle not only the physical ordeals of war but also the emotional toll it takes on their spirits. Messineo deftly explores the complexities of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice, painting a poignant and authentic portrait of the indomitable human spirit.

Through her skillful prose, Messineo brings to life the untold stories of women who fought valiantly, defying societal expectations and leaving an indelible mark on history. The Fire by Night is not just a captivating tale of resilience and courage but also a testament to the extraordinary power of women in times of adversity.

If you are looking for a compelling women in WWII book that will transport you to the heart of the battlefield and leave you in awe of the indomitable spirit of these remarkable individuals, then The Fire by Night is an absolute must-read.

The Lilac Girls’

by Martha Hall Kelly

The Lilac Girls is a captivating and powerful book that delves into the lives of remarkable women during World War II. This remarkable tale, written by Martha Hall Kelly, transports readers to a time when the world was at war and showcases the resilience and strength of these unsung heroes.

From the bustling streets of New York City to the harrowing confines of a concentration camp, The Lilac Girls weaves together the stories of three women, each with their own unique experiences and struggles. Caroline Ferriday, a socialite and philanthropist, uses her privilege to aid French orphans and later becomes an advocate for the survivors of the Ravensbrück concentration camp. Kasia Kuzmerick, a young Polish girl, is imprisoned and subjected to unimaginable horrors at Ravensbrück. Herta Oberheuser, a German doctor, becomes entangled in the Nazi regime and becomes complicit in their gruesome medical experiments.

Through alternating perspectives, Kelly masterfully explores the complexities of war, love, and the indomitable spirit of these women. The Lilac Girls offers a poignant and heartfelt portrayal of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of friendship. It sheds light on the atrocities committed during this dark period of history, while also highlighting the resilience and bravery of those who fought against it.

With rich historical detail and vivid storytelling, The Lilac Girls stands as a testament to the strength and determination of women in World War II. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling and inspiring narrative about the indomitable spirit of these remarkable women.

The Last Year of the War

by Susan Meissner

The Last Year of the War by Susan Meissner is an extraordinary book about women in WWII that will transport you back in time. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this captivating novel follows the journey of Elise Sontag, a young German-American girl, as she is interned in a U.S. internment camp along with her family.

Meissner’s masterful storytelling explores the challenges and triumphs of Elise as she navigates the complexities of her dual identity and the harsh realities of war. Through her experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound sacrifices made by countless women in WWII and the resilience they displayed in the face of adversity.

The Last Year of the War is a poignant and thought-provoking tale that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history. Meissner’s vivid descriptions and well-drawn characters make this book on women in WWII an immersive and unforgettable read. It serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and courage exhibited by women during one of the darkest periods in history.

If you’re a fan of historical fiction and are looking for a captivating women in WWII book, The Last Year of the War is a must-read. It will transport you back in time and leave you with a profound appreciation for the remarkable women who played a pivotal role in shaping our world.

The Women of the Copper Country

by Mary Doria Russell

The Women of the Copper Country by Mary Doria Russell is an extraordinary book that transports readers back to the early 20th century, immersing them in the fascinating world of women during the tumultuous era of World War I.

This captivating historical novel sheds light on the lives of the brave and resilient women who fought for their rights and dignity in the copper mines of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It tells the empowering story of Anna Klobuchar Clements, a courageous and formidable woman who led a strike against the oppressive mining companies in 1913.

Through Russell’s vivid storytelling and meticulous research, readers are introduced to a cast of vibrant and inspiring characters who defy societal norms and expectations. The book delves into the lives of these women, highlighting their courage, strength, and unwavering determination to bring about change.

With its richly detailed descriptions and compelling narrative, The Women of the Copper Country captures the struggles and triumphs of women during a pivotal moment in history. It is a book that celebrates the indomitable spirit of these remarkable individuals and serves as a reminder of the power of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

For those seeking an enthralling and thought-provoking read about the remarkable women who played a vital role in shaping the course of history, The Women of the Copper Country is an absolute must-read.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about women in WWII provide a captivating and eye-opening glimpse into the extraordinary lives and experiences of women during this tumultuous period in history. From the daring spies and resistance fighters to the dedicated nurses and factory workers, these stories shed light on the immense contributions and sacrifices made by women during the war. Whether you’re a history buff, a feminist, or simply looking for a compelling read, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives and narratives that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. So, dive into these pages and discover the untold stories of courage, resilience, and strength that have shaped the world we live in today.