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Kitty's War
Kilkenny, 1939 . Kitty Flinn is only seventeen when she is forced to give up her newborn to a mother and baby home. Heartbroken and desperate for a fresh start she leaves Ireland behind for London, vowing to never look back.
Years go by and Kitty has a new life in England, but when her communist brother Anthony is injured during the war and ends up in hiding from the authorities, she has no choice but to return home. Food and medicine are hard to come by, so when she lands a nursing job at a hospital in Naas it seems the answer to all their problems. But things become more complicated when her ability to read German is noticed by an ambitious Irish official, Sam Daley ...
Sam will stop at nothing to exploit Kitty's translation skills to gather intel from German prisoners, even resorting to digging into her past to ensure her loyalty. Kitty doesn't want to play any part in the war, especially when she finds out it could put Anthony's life at risk. But when Sam offers Kitty a one-time chance of finding her baby in exchange for her help, will she choose her past or her future?
Inspired by real life events Kitty's War is the new sweeping historical novel by the bestselling author of Dublin's Girl , Eimear Lawlor.
What readers are saying about Eimear
'This book was reminiscent of Pam Jenoff's WWII novels and carried the suspense and anticipation of Eoin Dempsey's Finding Rebecca ... The chemistry between the main characters was incredible' 5* reader review
'Loved this!... Full of romance, political intrigue, suspense, and history ' 5* blogger review , Arrow Reads
'Fantastic read. I have been completely unable to put this one down . I cannot wait to read more by this author' 5* bloggerreview , Little Miss Book Lover 87
' I loved this book and can't wait to read what the author writes next... Very highly recommended!' 5* reader review
' Dublin's Girl by Eimear Lawlor is a great historical fiction novel that has romance, political intrigue, suspense , and most definitely action... At first it seems as if it is a historical romance... it has so much more' 5* reader review
'Wow... it was exciting and captivating ' 5* reader review
'I love learning about this time period in Irish history... The plot and the setting drew me in immediately ' 4* reader review
Years go by and Kitty has a new life in England, but when her communist brother Anthony is injured during the war and ends up in hiding from the authorities, she has no choice but to return home. Food and medicine are hard to come by, so when she lands a nursing job at a hospital in Naas it seems the answer to all their problems. But things become more complicated when her ability to read German is noticed by an ambitious Irish official, Sam Daley ...
Sam will stop at nothing to exploit Kitty's translation skills to gather intel from German prisoners, even resorting to digging into her past to ensure her loyalty. Kitty doesn't want to play any part in the war, especially when she finds out it could put Anthony's life at risk. But when Sam offers Kitty a one-time chance of finding her baby in exchange for her help, will she choose her past or her future?
Inspired by real life events Kitty's War is the new sweeping historical novel by the bestselling author of Dublin's Girl , Eimear Lawlor.
What readers are saying about Eimear
'This book was reminiscent of Pam Jenoff's WWII novels and carried the suspense and anticipation of Eoin Dempsey's Finding Rebecca ... The chemistry between the main characters was incredible' 5* reader review
'Loved this!... Full of romance, political intrigue, suspense, and history ' 5* blogger review , Arrow Reads
'Fantastic read. I have been completely unable to put this one down . I cannot wait to read more by this author' 5* bloggerreview , Little Miss Book Lover 87
' I loved this book and can't wait to read what the author writes next... Very highly recommended!' 5* reader review
' Dublin's Girl by Eimear Lawlor is a great historical fiction novel that has romance, political intrigue, suspense , and most definitely action... At first it seems as if it is a historical romance... it has so much more' 5* reader review
'Wow... it was exciting and captivating ' 5* reader review
'I love learning about this time period in Irish history... The plot and the setting drew me in immediately ' 4* reader review
384 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2024
16 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 6, 2024
1941. Kathleen Flynn, left Ireland and moved to England with her friend Eve when she had a huge falling out with her mother. When she receives a telegram from her families kindly neighbour James she has no choice but to return to Kilkenny and he’s worried about her brother Anthony's health. You would expect Kathleen to be happy to leave the Blitz behind, but she dreads returning home, the bad memories and she’s worried people will find out about her secret pregnancy and the parish priest and her mother dealt with. Anthony fought in the Spanish Civil War, and Kitty returns to care for him and she has to supplement their income and applies for a job as a nurse’s aide.
At the start of the war Ireland chose to stay out of the war in Europe and remain neutral, but their ports could help the Germans to invade England and the local governments worried members of the IRA might back the Germans and despite Ireland being part of the Commonwealth. The IRA boys are all arrested and sent and internment camp in county Kildare and German prisoners of war are also kept at Curragh Military Camp.
Her mother was born in Germany, Kitty can speak the language, she discovers the Irish Intelligence or the G2 has been watching her and Anthony, Kitty has no choice and she starts working as an interpreter for them and they want her to check the German prisoner of war’s letters being send back and forth to Germany.
The author Eimear Lawlor cleverly uses real events and social issues relevant in Ireland during the Second World War, to create her latest historical fiction book. A story about family and secrets, the influence of the church, having to take sides and espionage and blackmail.
I received a copy of Kitty’s War from Aria & Aries and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I must say, I had never thought about how the Second World War impacted the Irish people, how they felt about it, it was in a prime position and to travel to England they needed a pass and identity card.
The German prisoners of war were treated well, they consonantly mentioned the food was bland and they ate better than the English people did, many wondered if this was a way of sending secret messages back to Germany and the Ms. Lawlor used this as a bases and to write her fascinating narrative around and four stars from me and I'm keen to read her previous novel, Dublin Girls.
At the start of the war Ireland chose to stay out of the war in Europe and remain neutral, but their ports could help the Germans to invade England and the local governments worried members of the IRA might back the Germans and despite Ireland being part of the Commonwealth. The IRA boys are all arrested and sent and internment camp in county Kildare and German prisoners of war are also kept at Curragh Military Camp.
Her mother was born in Germany, Kitty can speak the language, she discovers the Irish Intelligence or the G2 has been watching her and Anthony, Kitty has no choice and she starts working as an interpreter for them and they want her to check the German prisoner of war’s letters being send back and forth to Germany.
The author Eimear Lawlor cleverly uses real events and social issues relevant in Ireland during the Second World War, to create her latest historical fiction book. A story about family and secrets, the influence of the church, having to take sides and espionage and blackmail.
I received a copy of Kitty’s War from Aria & Aries and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I must say, I had never thought about how the Second World War impacted the Irish people, how they felt about it, it was in a prime position and to travel to England they needed a pass and identity card.
The German prisoners of war were treated well, they consonantly mentioned the food was bland and they ate better than the English people did, many wondered if this was a way of sending secret messages back to Germany and the Ms. Lawlor used this as a bases and to write her fascinating narrative around and four stars from me and I'm keen to read her previous novel, Dublin Girls.
May 26, 2024
Katie Flynn had escaped from her mothers’ clutches and is now living in London as nurse when she receives a letter from home that her mother is dead, and her brother is very sick after coming home from the war. Her brother is her last living relative, and he hasn’t got anyone else, so she returns home to care for him. But when she returns home to Ireland who is neutral in the current war. She finds out that her brother is being blackmailed for his homosexuality. So, to pay the blackmailer she takes on a job as a nurse’s maid to pay them off. But when commandant Doolin hears her talk German to one of the prisoners in the hospital she is asked to become a translator and to read the letters that the prisoners are sending back home.
The is another emotional read from the author that I really enjoyed, and it told me things I wasn’t aware of with Ireland’s involvement in WW2. 4 stars from me.
The is another emotional read from the author that I really enjoyed, and it told me things I wasn’t aware of with Ireland’s involvement in WW2. 4 stars from me.
November 5, 2024
What a beautifully written story. A story of love, friendship, family & forgiveness!
This book was such a lovely read, it was packed with so much kindness, and friendship, and the resilience of Kitty had me in awe of her.
There were so many characters that I loved, so many kind hearted, lovely ones that made this book so beautiful, Alice, James, Kitty, and Markus to name a few.
I thought that Kitty’s resilience was astounding in how much she just kept on going even after everything that happened.
There were some twists in the book that I didn’t see coming and that made me so happy to be honest 🤣
Reading this book made me feel so happy, and content.
To me it’s not just a historical fiction book but also a story of love, loss, friendship, forgiveness & hope!
This book was such a lovely read, it was packed with so much kindness, and friendship, and the resilience of Kitty had me in awe of her.
There were so many characters that I loved, so many kind hearted, lovely ones that made this book so beautiful, Alice, James, Kitty, and Markus to name a few.
I thought that Kitty’s resilience was astounding in how much she just kept on going even after everything that happened.
There were some twists in the book that I didn’t see coming and that made me so happy to be honest 🤣
Reading this book made me feel so happy, and content.
To me it’s not just a historical fiction book but also a story of love, loss, friendship, forgiveness & hope!
November 5, 2024
What a beautiful book weaving the harrowing darkness of the Mother and Baby homes and WW2 so seamlessly. I have not cried so hard at an ending of a novel in years, such a gorgeously uplifting ending that so many women would dream to have had. Thank you Eimear.
June 24, 2025
Set in 1939 Kilkenny, Kitty’s War follows the story of Kitty Flynn, a young woman who has already faced significant challenges in her life. At just seventeen, she was forced to give up her child and fled to London, hoping for a fresh start.
However, in 1941, Kitty learns that her brother, Anthony, who was injured in the Spanish Civil War, is gravely ill. She returns home to care for him, but the situation is bad. In Ireland, where food and medicine are in short supply, Kitty is relieved to find work as a nurse. But her troubles are just beginning when G2, the Irish Intelligence, discovers her proficiency in German.
The agency wants to use Kitty’s translation skills to gather information from German internees at The Curragh Military Camp, using her brother as leverage. Caught in a dangerous game of espionage, Kitty faces a heartbreaking choice: will she put herself on the line to save her brother?
Inspired by true events, Kitty’s War is a gripping historical novel that captures the struggles of a young woman in a time of turmoil. Eimear Lawlor's storytelling brings to life the challenges and sacrifices Kitty must make, making this a compelling read for anyone interested in history and resilience.
However, in 1941, Kitty learns that her brother, Anthony, who was injured in the Spanish Civil War, is gravely ill. She returns home to care for him, but the situation is bad. In Ireland, where food and medicine are in short supply, Kitty is relieved to find work as a nurse. But her troubles are just beginning when G2, the Irish Intelligence, discovers her proficiency in German.
The agency wants to use Kitty’s translation skills to gather information from German internees at The Curragh Military Camp, using her brother as leverage. Caught in a dangerous game of espionage, Kitty faces a heartbreaking choice: will she put herself on the line to save her brother?
Inspired by true events, Kitty’s War is a gripping historical novel that captures the struggles of a young woman in a time of turmoil. Eimear Lawlor's storytelling brings to life the challenges and sacrifices Kitty must make, making this a compelling read for anyone interested in history and resilience.
June 22, 2025
One of my favourite genres is historical fiction based around world war 2 . I love reading about the every day people who suffered during those times and how they coped . When I read the synopsis for this one and saw it was set in Ireland during that time and was based on real life events I couldn’t wait to start it. The author Eimear Lawlor has created some wonderful characters in this book and none more so than the main character Kitty. Kitty had such a strength and determination about her no matter what life throws at her. She really was an inspiration. As I progressed through the book I could see clearly how much research the author put into the writing of the book and this was particularly obvious in the chapters centring around the Curragh Army Camp. I was so focused on this story and how everything was going to turn out that I completely blocked out everyday life as I was reading this . There were a couple of great twists that I honestly never suspected until they were actually revealed and had me gasping in disbelief. Yes I did shed a tear or two as well . To sum up Kitty’s War is a wonderful and emotional read and I loved every bit of it .
June 26, 2025
I love historical fiction and this was another great read, depicting a beautiful story of strength, love and friendship.
I really liked Kitty's character, as she demonstrated strength, bravery and loyalty throughout. Her dedication to her brother was heartwarming, especially her actions towards the end. I was so happy with how the story ended for her, with the twist at the end, which I was not expecting.
There were various side characters who helped Kitty on her journey and showed kindness throughout. James and Alice were such kind hearted people and I really liked their contribution to the story.
The writing style of the book was easy to read and it immediately had me engrossed within the story. I could have carried on reading and really didn't want it to end, so I would love another book to follow on with the characters and their journeys.
I really liked Kitty's character, as she demonstrated strength, bravery and loyalty throughout. Her dedication to her brother was heartwarming, especially her actions towards the end. I was so happy with how the story ended for her, with the twist at the end, which I was not expecting.
There were various side characters who helped Kitty on her journey and showed kindness throughout. James and Alice were such kind hearted people and I really liked their contribution to the story.
The writing style of the book was easy to read and it immediately had me engrossed within the story. I could have carried on reading and really didn't want it to end, so I would love another book to follow on with the characters and their journeys.
June 23, 2025
I couldn’t put down Kitty’s War, it’s a beautifully written story that really drew me into war time Ireland during 1939 and 1941. I felt so connected to Kitty’s journey, from the heartbreaking choices she had to make to give up her child, to her brave dive into the dangerous world of espionage. The book does a great job showing how war affects personal lives and the stress and trauma the real time effect it has on us. Eimear Lawlor’s storytelling made everything feel so vivid and real. It’s a powerful, emotional read that sheds light on a side of history I didn’t know much about and loved exploring.
June 24, 2025
Kitty Flynn returns to Ireland from London in 1941 following the death of her mum and the illness of her brother Anthony. Kitty has German blood which hinders her but also means she can help out in times of strong anti German feelings. I am always fascinated by books based around war time and this book was no exception. Combining fiction and historical fact I liked the setting of Ireland, not the usual location of most books depicting this period of history. I thoroughly enjoyed this book which covers more themes than just the war, Kitty’s back story was particularly poignant as was Anthony’s story. I warmed to James and Alice, both wonderfully kind and supportive people. Overall I found this to be a very readable Second World War themed book with several twists and a unique location which I found refreshing.
August 14, 2025
Time taken to read - in and out over 6 days
Pages - 317
Publisher - Head of Zeus
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
Kilkenny, 1939. Ireland might be neutral, but Kitty Flynn is caught in her own war. Forced to give up her child at seventeen, she escaped to London in search of a fresh start.
However, in 1941, upon hearing that her brother, Anthony, who had been injured during the Spanish Civil War, is now gravely ill, Kitty must return home to care for him. In a time where food and medicine are scarce, Kitty is relieved to secure a nursing job – that is, until G2, the Irish Intelligence notices her proficiency in German…
G2 are determined to use Kitty's translation skills to extract information from the German internees at The Curragh Military Camp, even using Anthony as leverage.
Before she knows it, Kitty finds herself in the treacherous world of espionage. And soon Kitty must will she sacrifice herself to save her brother?
Inspired by real life events Kitty's War is the new sweeping historical novel by the bestselling author of Dublin's Girl, Eimear Lawlor.
My Review
So Kitty is our main character, living in London after fleeing for a fresh start, unwed and forced to give up her baby - it is 1939, Ireland. Her plan is a new life and with her friend they both are going into healthcare. When Kitty has to go home due to a bereavement she finds her brother in trouble, now it is just the two of them they need to stick together. Kitty will do whatever it takes to save her brother, from illness, from authorities even from himself.
Poor Kitty, travelling whilst a war and bombs are going on, getting caught up in all kinds of dodgy situations and everything comes back to saving her brother. She risks just about everything for him, they had a turbulent childhood, often depending on each other and now as adults he needs her more than ever.
I kinda wish I hadn't read the blurb because it goes on about Kitty being caught up in espionage which doesn't come until later, much later. I thought the book was going to be thick of war/espionage and whilst war and threat is peppered throughout this is really all about Kitty. She has constant inner battles, putting herself in some really dodgy situations all in desperation of doing what is right for her brother.
The whole war/Ireland part was really interesting, I know not a lot about the wars so I fond myself having to put the book down and reading up XYZ. I love when books make me do that. There are some dodgy characters and Kitty had me frustrated at times but again it was all through the love and devotion she had to her brother. The book also deals with issues relevant to the time period, babies out of wedlock and being hidden away as a result, the impacts that kind of loss has. Her mother 's treatment and her ideals/memories of her father.
The book has huge threads of family weaved throughout, dodgy morals, sexuality, family, friendship, accusations of espionage, mistrust of anyone seemingly linked to or sympathising with Germans/IRA or a parent being German. There is a lot going on and I wasn't sure where it was all headed, I do enjoy a book that keeps you guessing. Touching in places, some bits she had me ripping my knittin and some emotive scenes. This is my first by this author, I would absolutely read her again.
Pages - 317
Publisher - Head of Zeus
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
Kilkenny, 1939. Ireland might be neutral, but Kitty Flynn is caught in her own war. Forced to give up her child at seventeen, she escaped to London in search of a fresh start.
However, in 1941, upon hearing that her brother, Anthony, who had been injured during the Spanish Civil War, is now gravely ill, Kitty must return home to care for him. In a time where food and medicine are scarce, Kitty is relieved to secure a nursing job – that is, until G2, the Irish Intelligence notices her proficiency in German…
G2 are determined to use Kitty's translation skills to extract information from the German internees at The Curragh Military Camp, even using Anthony as leverage.
Before she knows it, Kitty finds herself in the treacherous world of espionage. And soon Kitty must will she sacrifice herself to save her brother?
Inspired by real life events Kitty's War is the new sweeping historical novel by the bestselling author of Dublin's Girl, Eimear Lawlor.
My Review
So Kitty is our main character, living in London after fleeing for a fresh start, unwed and forced to give up her baby - it is 1939, Ireland. Her plan is a new life and with her friend they both are going into healthcare. When Kitty has to go home due to a bereavement she finds her brother in trouble, now it is just the two of them they need to stick together. Kitty will do whatever it takes to save her brother, from illness, from authorities even from himself.
Poor Kitty, travelling whilst a war and bombs are going on, getting caught up in all kinds of dodgy situations and everything comes back to saving her brother. She risks just about everything for him, they had a turbulent childhood, often depending on each other and now as adults he needs her more than ever.
I kinda wish I hadn't read the blurb because it goes on about Kitty being caught up in espionage which doesn't come until later, much later. I thought the book was going to be thick of war/espionage and whilst war and threat is peppered throughout this is really all about Kitty. She has constant inner battles, putting herself in some really dodgy situations all in desperation of doing what is right for her brother.
The whole war/Ireland part was really interesting, I know not a lot about the wars so I fond myself having to put the book down and reading up XYZ. I love when books make me do that. There are some dodgy characters and Kitty had me frustrated at times but again it was all through the love and devotion she had to her brother. The book also deals with issues relevant to the time period, babies out of wedlock and being hidden away as a result, the impacts that kind of loss has. Her mother 's treatment and her ideals/memories of her father.
The book has huge threads of family weaved throughout, dodgy morals, sexuality, family, friendship, accusations of espionage, mistrust of anyone seemingly linked to or sympathising with Germans/IRA or a parent being German. There is a lot going on and I wasn't sure where it was all headed, I do enjoy a book that keeps you guessing. Touching in places, some bits she had me ripping my knittin and some emotive scenes. This is my first by this author, I would absolutely read her again.
September 15, 2025
I got this book in a subscription book box, and I thought it would be more suitable for my wife. I started reading it at was hooked after about 20 pages. It a wonderful story of the trials and tribulations of a young Irish woman in neutral Ireland in the second world war. A beautiful and sometimes brutal tale of family life at a difficult time. Give it a go, you won't be sorry
September 17, 2024
This is a fascinating insight into a protagonist Kitty, who escapes from the freedom, excitement, independence and danger of life in wartime London to her isolated rural home in Kilkenny simply as her conscience will no let her abandon her brother. Kitty's War deals with hard-hitting subjects and the social implications in Ireland surrounding homosexuality, mother and baby homes, corruption, women trying to break through the patriarchy, and, of course, prisoners of war
I had no idea how Ireland treated the many German POWs so well, yet the English less so during these times of great tension. This book offers drama, lots of tension and twists, and a fabulous protagonist. I tried to pace myself but ended up racing through this to unearth the outcomes for all. It was fabulous.
Two characters in particular stood out to me, and I completely fell in love with Alice and(though it was never stated, her neurodivergent son) Peter. This relationship was so touching and beautiful, and for me, the real hero in this book was Alice. Kitty's War has suspense, intrigue, and wonderful characters. Based on actual events and places, it is an absolute must-read for historical fiction fans.
I had no idea how Ireland treated the many German POWs so well, yet the English less so during these times of great tension. This book offers drama, lots of tension and twists, and a fabulous protagonist. I tried to pace myself but ended up racing through this to unearth the outcomes for all. It was fabulous.
Two characters in particular stood out to me, and I completely fell in love with Alice and(though it was never stated, her neurodivergent son) Peter. This relationship was so touching and beautiful, and for me, the real hero in this book was Alice. Kitty's War has suspense, intrigue, and wonderful characters. Based on actual events and places, it is an absolute must-read for historical fiction fans.
Read
January 16, 2025Kitty's War highlighted what life was like for young unmarried mothers in Ireland during World War II. The women were treated appallingly by society and their own families. Left by the man she loved, Kitty Flinn builds a life in England.
It's lovely to see the care and love that Kitty has for her brother, Anthony. They are treated with suspicion by all because their mother was German.
Kitty steals medicine and remains in Ireland to look after Anthony. Anthony is gay and Kitty owes money to the nuns for her stillborn child, so they have a lot to lose.
They form a strong friendship with Markus Biegel, a German who is highly opposed to what Hitler is doing in Germany. Markus and Anthony are arrested, and Kitty risks everything to protect them. Upon finding out that Commandant Frank Doolin is a half brother of Kitty and Anthony, Kitty sees her mother's lack of empathy in him when he wants to hang her brother. Kitty and Sam Daly get Anthony on an RAF ship and out of Ireland. The story was really interesting and gave a great insight into life for civilians during wartime. The hardship and death was difficult to read about but the courage love and strength of Kitty and Anthony was admirable.
It's lovely to see the care and love that Kitty has for her brother, Anthony. They are treated with suspicion by all because their mother was German.
Kitty steals medicine and remains in Ireland to look after Anthony. Anthony is gay and Kitty owes money to the nuns for her stillborn child, so they have a lot to lose.
They form a strong friendship with Markus Biegel, a German who is highly opposed to what Hitler is doing in Germany. Markus and Anthony are arrested, and Kitty risks everything to protect them. Upon finding out that Commandant Frank Doolin is a half brother of Kitty and Anthony, Kitty sees her mother's lack of empathy in him when he wants to hang her brother. Kitty and Sam Daly get Anthony on an RAF ship and out of Ireland. The story was really interesting and gave a great insight into life for civilians during wartime. The hardship and death was difficult to read about but the courage love and strength of Kitty and Anthony was admirable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2025
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Eimear Lawson’s Kitty’s War is a sweeping historical novel you will savour and remember long after the last page is turned.
Kitty Flynn had been desperate for a fresh start. After falling pregnant at seventeen and being forced to give up her child, Kitty had left Kilkenny for London and vowed never to return to Ireland ever again. Unfortunately, when war is declared, her new beginning is cut short when she receives news that her brother Anthony has been injured during the Spanish Civil War and she must return to Ireland to care for him.
On her return back home, Kitty prepares for the struggles ahead of her. With food and medicine in short supply, Kitty is thankful that she manages to find a nursing position. However, her skills and proficiency in German attracts the attention of the G2, who are determined to put her linguistic prowess to good use. The G2 plans to use Kitty to glean information from the Germans internees at the Curragh Military Camp.
Now navigating the treacherous waters of espionage, Kitty finds herself having to make the biggest decision of her life. But will she make the right choice? Or will she lose everyone – and everything – she holds dear to her heart?
Eimear Lawlor’s Kitty’s War is a powerful, poignant and compulsively readable historical novel about love, courage and sacrifice that is so moving it could seriously sever your heartstrings. With a bold, resilient and resourceful heroine you will root for and relate to, Kitty’s War is a dramatic tale of deadly secrets, family ties and the bonds that break from Eimear Lawlor perfect for Heather Morris and Kristin Hannah fans.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Eimear Lawson’s Kitty’s War is a sweeping historical novel you will savour and remember long after the last page is turned.
Kitty Flynn had been desperate for a fresh start. After falling pregnant at seventeen and being forced to give up her child, Kitty had left Kilkenny for London and vowed never to return to Ireland ever again. Unfortunately, when war is declared, her new beginning is cut short when she receives news that her brother Anthony has been injured during the Spanish Civil War and she must return to Ireland to care for him.
On her return back home, Kitty prepares for the struggles ahead of her. With food and medicine in short supply, Kitty is thankful that she manages to find a nursing position. However, her skills and proficiency in German attracts the attention of the G2, who are determined to put her linguistic prowess to good use. The G2 plans to use Kitty to glean information from the Germans internees at the Curragh Military Camp.
Now navigating the treacherous waters of espionage, Kitty finds herself having to make the biggest decision of her life. But will she make the right choice? Or will she lose everyone – and everything – she holds dear to her heart?
Eimear Lawlor’s Kitty’s War is a powerful, poignant and compulsively readable historical novel about love, courage and sacrifice that is so moving it could seriously sever your heartstrings. With a bold, resilient and resourceful heroine you will root for and relate to, Kitty’s War is a dramatic tale of deadly secrets, family ties and the bonds that break from Eimear Lawlor perfect for Heather Morris and Kristin Hannah fans.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 15, 2025
Kitty’s War by Eimear Lawler is a powerful historical novel that I read in just one sitting.
The novel is set in Southern Ireland in 1941. As the tale opens, the leading lady is heading home from the mainland to look after her brother.
We see that German origins can be a curse even though the leading lady has no ties with Germany.
Although Southern Ireland was neutral, the war still touched lives as there were bombing raids and German pilots were shot down. The Germans had all been perceived as evil Nazis but many were just young men with families who missed them.
Catholic Southern Ireland had some harsh and cruel laws for unmarried mothers and homosexual men. There were those who were kind and passed no judgement. It is awful to see how many had to hide their true selves.
Grief is a terrible master. It threatens to sink characters.
A character’s health was weakened by fighting in the Spanish Civil War. His sister tries to nurse him back to health.
We hear of the uprising in the 1920’s and of the formation of the IRA.
Kitty’s War was a compelling and powerful read. I want to hear what happens next and hope there will be another book!
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The novel is set in Southern Ireland in 1941. As the tale opens, the leading lady is heading home from the mainland to look after her brother.
We see that German origins can be a curse even though the leading lady has no ties with Germany.
Although Southern Ireland was neutral, the war still touched lives as there were bombing raids and German pilots were shot down. The Germans had all been perceived as evil Nazis but many were just young men with families who missed them.
Catholic Southern Ireland had some harsh and cruel laws for unmarried mothers and homosexual men. There were those who were kind and passed no judgement. It is awful to see how many had to hide their true selves.
Grief is a terrible master. It threatens to sink characters.
A character’s health was weakened by fighting in the Spanish Civil War. His sister tries to nurse him back to health.
We hear of the uprising in the 1920’s and of the formation of the IRA.
Kitty’s War was a compelling and powerful read. I want to hear what happens next and hope there will be another book!
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
June 25, 2025
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
This moving story follows a brave young woman named Kitty during WWII. At the start of the book, Kitty learns that her mother has passed away, and her brother Anthony is very unwell. Kitty, who has been living in London for some time, returns to Kilkenny to take care of her brother. To support the two of them, Kitty accepts a job as a nurse’s aide. Kitty speaks a little German, and this catches the attention of the Irish Intelligence. What does it mean for Kitty and her brother?
It seemed to me that even at the start of the book, Kitty had been through a lot already. I found her a likeable protagonist, as she seemed both kindhearted and strong-headed. Her close bond with her brother Anthony went to my heart, and as I carried on reading, there were some other characters that I enjoyed getting to know too. I found Kitty's story inspiring and heartwarming, and I became unexpectedly emotional towards the end.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This moving story follows a brave young woman named Kitty during WWII. At the start of the book, Kitty learns that her mother has passed away, and her brother Anthony is very unwell. Kitty, who has been living in London for some time, returns to Kilkenny to take care of her brother. To support the two of them, Kitty accepts a job as a nurse’s aide. Kitty speaks a little German, and this catches the attention of the Irish Intelligence. What does it mean for Kitty and her brother?
It seemed to me that even at the start of the book, Kitty had been through a lot already. I found her a likeable protagonist, as she seemed both kindhearted and strong-headed. Her close bond with her brother Anthony went to my heart, and as I carried on reading, there were some other characters that I enjoyed getting to know too. I found Kitty's story inspiring and heartwarming, and I became unexpectedly emotional towards the end.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
June 12, 2025
A beautifully written story that I felt comforted by. Kitty is the most resilient woman that I know. After all she went through and it is a lot, she remains strong, kind and smart. The story is so much more than historical fiction. I can't believe how much women went through back then. It breaks my heart and by the end of the story I was a sobbing mess so I really don't know how they survived. The author has obviously done extensive research and has knowledge on the timeline. I take my hat off to Eimear for writing a beautiful, honest and powerful emotional read. Historical fiction lover's will love it.
July 9, 2024
I knew very little about this time in Ireland. 1940 and Eire was neutral. (I had thought they supported the Germans, but the situation was far more complex). In telling Kitty's tale, Eimear Lawlor has written a moving and illuminating story of what life was like. I was drawn to Kitty, as a woman struggling on so many levels, who rolled up her sleeves and determined to win through. I loved all the period detail of Ireland, so lovingly observed. A great read (and without spoilers, but for those who need this: It has a relatively happy ending).
October 15, 2024
The writing flowed with some beatiful descriptions and it was easy to go on Kittys journey as she battle the social norms at the time (1941 Ireland) . We learn how unwed mothers are treated, it also approached an abusive mother but not in a way that is distressing, and how homosexuality was still in crime. Sit also touched on true friendship between Alice and Kitty and Alices son Peter. Then the real conflict in the story is Kitty's relationship with the crashed LuftwaffAnd great twist at then end. I closed this book feeling satisfied.
September 30, 2025
really enjoyed Kitty’s War by Eimear Lawlor. It’s a gripping story set in Ireland during WWII, following Kitty Flinn, who gets pulled into espionage while coping with personal loss and family struggles. I loved how the book weaves in the history of The Curragh and Ireland’s neutrality—it gave the story a unique angle I hadn’t read before. Kitty is a strong, believable heroine, and her journey is full of tension, secrecy and moral choices. The writing is atmospheric and kept me turning the pages, even if a couple of twists were a bit predictable.
January 3, 2026
Ok the first 170'ish pages were good. Some issues with a lack of transition and characters could be fleshed out better but generally good. But after that, we throw transition, character development, themes, etc. all out the window. The writing gets totally chaotic. The characters start developing random superficial traits and dropping previous traits, the story lines all get beyond murky and oh my god it's like the writer just said "scr3w this" and lost the plot, literally and figuratively... this was so promising then so so disappointing...
September 25, 2024
This book was gifted to me and I normally don’t read historical fiction but I couldn’t put it down. Not only was it a great historical read and learned so much of what life was like in Ireland during World War Two in which Ireland was neutral. But, that the German and British airmen were interned for the duration of the war. I followed Kittys journey navigating Ireland and was rooting for her for the whole book.
October 26, 2024
The story surprised me. I don’t usually like historical fiction, but there were more layers to it, like the horrible mother and baby homes, social challenges for gay men, and the harshness of war. But the story was about Kitty's resilience in overcoming her pastand facing the enemy. There is so much history, and the author shared it without dumping information. Fast-paced and , easy to get lost in the story
June 22, 2025
I read Eimear Lawlor’s first novel, Dublin’s Girl, and really enjoyed how she wove history into a gripping, page-turning story. Kitty’s War gave me that same pleasure. I felt totally engaged with Kitty and rooted for her throughout her journey. As with her debut, the historical detail was woven seamlessly into the plot. I read it while on holiday and finished it in just a couple of days — I couldn’t put it down.
September 9, 2024
I never knew Ireland was neutral during world warm2.
I loved this story and was rooting formKitty. The writing was beautiful and full of compassion. I was aware of the horrendous treatment of unmarried mothers and it was crafted into a fascinating story of the crashed Luftwafe airmen who were interned for the war.
I loved this story and was rooting formKitty. The writing was beautiful and full of compassion. I was aware of the horrendous treatment of unmarried mothers and it was crafted into a fascinating story of the crashed Luftwafe airmen who were interned for the war.
October 14, 2024
The book is about Kitty Flynn doing World War Two in neutral Ireland and her fighting adversity and social problems as an unmarried mother in 1940s There was so much history I found it well researched and it didn’t feel like info dumping. It was a page turner the characters were likeable and enyoyed learning about the history in Ireland during world war two. K
June 24, 2025
I’m a huge fan of historical fiction, adding in the setting of Ireland, I’m sold! I was instantly drawn to the plot, mainly due to wanting to compare to my own grandfathers role in the war as as a fellow Irish who spoke German.
The author perfectly portrays the attitude of Ireland towards unwed mothers, a persons sexuality and the impact these put upon Kitty.
Throughout these times, we also learn about Kitty in her own right, I especially enjoyed following her into her chosen career and the freedom that this allows, reflected in her need to help her brother and how this need, was at the forefront of her decisions.
This is a must read for historical fiction, I will be adding the authors first book to my TBR.
The author perfectly portrays the attitude of Ireland towards unwed mothers, a persons sexuality and the impact these put upon Kitty.
Throughout these times, we also learn about Kitty in her own right, I especially enjoyed following her into her chosen career and the freedom that this allows, reflected in her need to help her brother and how this need, was at the forefront of her decisions.
This is a must read for historical fiction, I will be adding the authors first book to my TBR.
October 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book and was surprised to learn about the German Luftwaffe interned in Ireland during World War II. Much has been written about the mother and baby homes in Ireland, but this was included in the story, which was much more about Kitty's journey to find happiness and overcome her past. the story was insiring and heartfelt
September 28, 2024
What a lovely book! I really enjoyed Kitty's story. It was fast-paced and I was glued to the pages, always wanting to know what happened next.
Highly recommended if you enjoy the historical fiction genre.
Highly recommended if you enjoy the historical fiction genre.
August 12, 2025
I got this as a Christmas present and only getting around to reading it now.
An interesting perspective on the impact of World War II on neutral Ireland. Kitty’s War is meticulously researched and offers a vivid, engaging portrayal of a little-explored slice of history.’
An interesting perspective on the impact of World War II on neutral Ireland. Kitty’s War is meticulously researched and offers a vivid, engaging portrayal of a little-explored slice of history.’
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