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Nightingale Mystery #1
Death of a Flying Nightingale
Three very different young women serve as air ambulance nurses bravely flying into WWII combat zones risking their lives to evacuate the wounded. Irish Maeve joined the RAF after her fiancé was killed; streetwise Etta fled London’s slums in search of a better life, and farm girl Betty enlisted to prevent the wounded from dying like her brother.Newspapers have given these women a romantic “The Flying Nightingales.” Not that there’s anything romantic about what they do. The horrific injuries they encounter on a daily basis take their toll, so when one of the Nightingales is found dead, they Was it an accident? Suicide? Or something else?After another nursing orderly dies mysteriously, they Someone’s killing Nightingales. The friends grapple with their loss all while keeping a stiff upper lip and continuing to care for casualties as they’re being strafed by the Luftwaffe.Inspired by true events this novel is a tribute to a group of overlooked heroes who kept calm and carried on, while the fighting raged about them. These courageous women proudly did their bit for King and country and found solace and camaraderie in the lasting friendships forged in war.
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About the author
Laura Jensen Walker
32 books230 followersLaura Jensen Walker is the author of several books, including the Lefty nominated historical fiction, DEATH OF A FLYING NIGHTINGALE, called "riveting and affecting" by NYT bestselling author Susan Elia MacNeal.
Laura's second historical, THE POSTMISTRESS OF PUDDLINGTON, also set in WWII England, has been called "a must read for fans of THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY," and releases in August 2026.
THE PILGRIMAGE OF PRIMROSE HONEYCHURCH, Laura's women's fiction debut about a solitary curmudgeonly senior who prefers books to people and sets off on a literary pilgrimage to "the Town of Books" in Wales, releases in October 2026. "A heartfelt exploration of courage, reinvention, and the quiet bravery it takes to choose a different life." -Emily Colin, NYT bestselling author of THE MEMORY THIEF.
Laura is also the author of several fun mysteries, including the Agatha-nominated MURDER MOST SWEET, and 2006's THE ALPHABET SLEUTHS. (Think The Golden Girls meets The Thursday Murder Club.)
Laura's second historical, THE POSTMISTRESS OF PUDDLINGTON, also set in WWII England, has been called "a must read for fans of THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY," and releases in August 2026.
THE PILGRIMAGE OF PRIMROSE HONEYCHURCH, Laura's women's fiction debut about a solitary curmudgeonly senior who prefers books to people and sets off on a literary pilgrimage to "the Town of Books" in Wales, releases in October 2026. "A heartfelt exploration of courage, reinvention, and the quiet bravery it takes to choose a different life." -Emily Colin, NYT bestselling author of THE MEMORY THIEF.
Laura is also the author of several fun mysteries, including the Agatha-nominated MURDER MOST SWEET, and 2006's THE ALPHABET SLEUTHS. (Think The Golden Girls meets The Thursday Murder Club.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 31, 2024
SYNOPSIS
A courageous group of Allied women serve as air ambulance nurses flying into WWII combat zones risking their lives to evacuate the wounded. They're given a romantic nickname: “The Flying Nightingales.”
Not that there’s anything romantic about what they do. The horrific injuries they encounter on a daily basis take their toll, so when one of the Nightingales is found dead, they wonder: Was it an accident? Suicide? Or something else? After another nursing orderly dies mysteriously, they think: Someone’s killing Nightingales.
Inspired by true events, this novel is a tribute to a group of overlooked "sheroes" who kept calm and carried on, while the fighting raged about them.
MY THOUGHTS
I saw that inspired cover and grabbed the NetGalley ARC ASAP and am so glad I did! This is a unique look at WWII with its focus on a group of brave women I had not known about before. The narrative bristles with action during oft turbulent flights to evacuate the wounded under enemy fire, while heroic nurse orderlies do all they can to keep these gravely injured men alive until they can reach hospital care. Add in a series of frightful murders, and you have one enormously intriguing read. Highly recommended!
PS Be sure to read the author's note about the real-life flying nightingales. It's as compelling as the book!
A courageous group of Allied women serve as air ambulance nurses flying into WWII combat zones risking their lives to evacuate the wounded. They're given a romantic nickname: “The Flying Nightingales.”
Not that there’s anything romantic about what they do. The horrific injuries they encounter on a daily basis take their toll, so when one of the Nightingales is found dead, they wonder: Was it an accident? Suicide? Or something else? After another nursing orderly dies mysteriously, they think: Someone’s killing Nightingales.
Inspired by true events, this novel is a tribute to a group of overlooked "sheroes" who kept calm and carried on, while the fighting raged about them.
MY THOUGHTS
I saw that inspired cover and grabbed the NetGalley ARC ASAP and am so glad I did! This is a unique look at WWII with its focus on a group of brave women I had not known about before. The narrative bristles with action during oft turbulent flights to evacuate the wounded under enemy fire, while heroic nurse orderlies do all they can to keep these gravely injured men alive until they can reach hospital care. Add in a series of frightful murders, and you have one enormously intriguing read. Highly recommended!
PS Be sure to read the author's note about the real-life flying nightingales. It's as compelling as the book!
April 2, 2024
Having downloaded this book last night, I looked forward to reading it over the next couple of days. However, once I read the first page I couldn't put it down and read the entire book...WOW. With every page, I was more and more in awe of the Flying Nightingales. Their bravery in active warzones, skills, and compassion while bringing home severely wounded men were astonishing. These women weren't even trained nurses. They received 6 weeks of medical training before their first flight and there was only one Nightingale to care for 24 wounded men in each plane. Heroes isn't a big enough word to describe these women. This is a character-driven story that begins one week after D-Day and ends in the summer of 1945. Through the experiences of these women, the reader follows the major battles of Normandy, Market Garden, Battle of the Bulge, and Remagen as well as the liberation of Bergen Belsen and many POW camps.
I am so impressed by this book. Not only does the author shine a spotlight on the Flying Nightingales but she also weaves serious social issues into the characters and the plot. In addition to the nail-biting, heartbreaking air ambulance flights and the personal stories of the women, three of the Nightingales die unexpectedly. Is it murder, suicide, or accidental? That's just another gem in this stellar book! Once published, I'll be sure that my daughters and friends get a copy of Death of a Nightingale. This book is not to be missed and we honor these unsung heroes by reading it. I'll be thinking about this one for a long time. I loved it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are my own.
I am so impressed by this book. Not only does the author shine a spotlight on the Flying Nightingales but she also weaves serious social issues into the characters and the plot. In addition to the nail-biting, heartbreaking air ambulance flights and the personal stories of the women, three of the Nightingales die unexpectedly. Is it murder, suicide, or accidental? That's just another gem in this stellar book! Once published, I'll be sure that my daughters and friends get a copy of Death of a Nightingale. This book is not to be missed and we honor these unsung heroes by reading it. I'll be thinking about this one for a long time. I loved it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are my own.
September 30, 2024
Interesting story about life as air ambulance nurses in WWII, something I wasn’t familiar with. The characters are fascinating and well-developed and I enjoyed getting to know them and seeing the war through their eyes. This was not, however, a mystery. Yes, nurses die and yes, you do get a resolution but there is very little investigation so I wouldn’t consider it a mystery. It starts slowly but once it gets going, it is an enjoyable story.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
September 9, 2024
Death of a Flying Nightingale
This book is listed under the genres of Historical Fiction and it’s a Nightingale Mystery #1.
What I Enjoyed:
• The historical setting
• The historical influences (mentioned in the Author’s Note)
• The Nightingales
• The characters
I enjoyed the characters Mauve, Betty, and Albert. Etta’s backstory was tragic. The Author’s Note at the end of the book is very helpful for understanding the historical background and why certain things happen in the book. If you want to appreciate the book more, the author’s note is a must read.
I also did enjoy one of the romances (there are many in this book). One of them was sweet and kept me reading on.
What I didn’t enjoy:
There’s no mystery to solve or be solved by a sleuth (-1.0 star):
I took off 1 star because this book isn’t a good mystery. There are three deaths and the characters wonder: who did it and why? But if you’re expecting sleuthing, clues, a list of suspects in a traditional sense, that doesn’t happen in this book. At the end of the book there is a confession. None of the characters actually finds out who did it. Throughout most of the book, you may be left wondering: does anyone even care about the deaths? After the first Nightingale is discovered dead, the story skips over it and moves on to romance until about midway through the last half of the book.
The Romances:
I’m personally not a romance genre reader. However, I did enjoy the romance between Albert and Betty. Their relationship is sweet even if it mostly occurs through letters.
However, I wasn’t expecting this book to jump from character to character often from one paragraph to another. And it also jumps from romance story to another romance story.
No Character Arc (-0.5star):
Because this book jumps from character to character and romance to romance, there was no character arc. No overarching themes. No lessons learned from the characters. The Nightingales are heroic by virtue of being brave nurses, but they don’t evolve in any way. They are brave from the beginning until the end with no growth as people. Same goes for the other characters in the novel. Even after they learn who did the murders it doesn’t change anything and everyone moves on with their lives.
The Boring Points (-0.5 star):
The lack of story structure, character development, jumping from character to character and romance to romance, and then anecdotes from the war made this story difficult to finish. At many points, I thought I would DNF this book because I kept wondering, why should I continue?
The Strange Religious Commentary (-0.5 star) :
As a Catholic myself, I’m not sure how to feel about how many times Catholicism, religion is mentioned in this book. The commentary is strange, misappropriated, and borderline offensive at points. The word “Catholic” is mentioned 5 times, “Jesus” is mentioned 2 + 4 times (misspelled), “religious”, “religion” 5 times, “prayer” 10 times, “sin”, “mortal sin” 4 times, “crucifix”, “crucifixion” 3 times. I should add that the relationship between Albert and Betty was completely wholesome. I mention this because they express their faith in a good way. Other parts of the novel seem critical of Catholic teaching in regard to chastity until marriage, teaching on life & hell (see CCC 2280 – 2283) “we should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance.” I found the story of the crucifix offensive, but in the author’s note, it’s mentioned to be based on a true story.
I gave this book a 2.5 but I’ll round up to 3.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book in exchange for an honest review. #DeathofaFlyingNightingale #NetGalley
This book is listed under the genres of Historical Fiction and it’s a Nightingale Mystery #1.
What I Enjoyed:
• The historical setting
• The historical influences (mentioned in the Author’s Note)
• The Nightingales
• The characters
I enjoyed the characters Mauve, Betty, and Albert. Etta’s backstory was tragic. The Author’s Note at the end of the book is very helpful for understanding the historical background and why certain things happen in the book. If you want to appreciate the book more, the author’s note is a must read.
I also did enjoy one of the romances (there are many in this book). One of them was sweet and kept me reading on.
What I didn’t enjoy:
There’s no mystery to solve or be solved by a sleuth (-1.0 star):
I took off 1 star because this book isn’t a good mystery. There are three deaths and the characters wonder: who did it and why? But if you’re expecting sleuthing, clues, a list of suspects in a traditional sense, that doesn’t happen in this book. At the end of the book there is a confession. None of the characters actually finds out who did it. Throughout most of the book, you may be left wondering: does anyone even care about the deaths? After the first Nightingale is discovered dead, the story skips over it and moves on to romance until about midway through the last half of the book.
The Romances:
I’m personally not a romance genre reader. However, I did enjoy the romance between Albert and Betty. Their relationship is sweet even if it mostly occurs through letters.
However, I wasn’t expecting this book to jump from character to character often from one paragraph to another. And it also jumps from romance story to another romance story.
No Character Arc (-0.5star):
Because this book jumps from character to character and romance to romance, there was no character arc. No overarching themes. No lessons learned from the characters. The Nightingales are heroic by virtue of being brave nurses, but they don’t evolve in any way. They are brave from the beginning until the end with no growth as people. Same goes for the other characters in the novel. Even after they learn who did the murders it doesn’t change anything and everyone moves on with their lives.
The Boring Points (-0.5 star):
The lack of story structure, character development, jumping from character to character and romance to romance, and then anecdotes from the war made this story difficult to finish. At many points, I thought I would DNF this book because I kept wondering, why should I continue?
The Strange Religious Commentary (-0.5 star) :
As a Catholic myself, I’m not sure how to feel about how many times Catholicism, religion is mentioned in this book. The commentary is strange, misappropriated, and borderline offensive at points. The word “Catholic” is mentioned 5 times, “Jesus” is mentioned 2 + 4 times (misspelled), “religious”, “religion” 5 times, “prayer” 10 times, “sin”, “mortal sin” 4 times, “crucifix”, “crucifixion” 3 times. I should add that the relationship between Albert and Betty was completely wholesome. I mention this because they express their faith in a good way. Other parts of the novel seem critical of Catholic teaching in regard to chastity until marriage, teaching on life & hell (see CCC 2280 – 2283) “we should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance.” I found the story of the crucifix offensive, but in the author’s note, it’s mentioned to be based on a true story.
I gave this book a 2.5 but I’ll round up to 3.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book in exchange for an honest review. #DeathofaFlyingNightingale #NetGalley
May 3, 2024
🦭 ꒰ 메모 ꒱ ۪ ݁ 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
the inner workings of 3 nurses known as the flying nightingales. what. a. story.
this book is narrated by 3 nurses with different personalities, values, and stories to tell. i don’t want to say much about this book because it is still an ARC and it is yet to be published so this review will be written in a more general way.
death of a flying nightingale is an ARC written by Laura Jensen Walker and it is the most real, raw, sad, but also moving piece of literature i have ever read in my life that has truly made an impact on me. i was more than excited when i saw the word “Nightingale” on a book that’s sitting prettily on NetGalley and requested for the book IMMEDIATELY.
i’ve always wanted to be a military nurse because i’ve met one and her story was beyond amazing, thrilling, and admirable. and so, i was really inspired by her and now i am striving hard to become a nurse. though now, i want to be a pediatric nurse <3 but who knows right? if that being a military nurse is my calling then i will answer it whole heartedly. upon reading this book, i was introduced to a more realistic day to day basis of what one’s life is flying in the air. the duties of a nurse is so HARD if i am being frank. it is one of the hardest medical related course in my opinion and i’m saying this not because i am struggling with my course, but because nurses are the one who are doing it all.
nurses are doing so much and in most cases, they are the ones doing it ALL for their patients and the patient’s family. and yet what saddens me is how belittled they are. i would hear people often say that nurses are like dogs because they just follow doctors blah blah blah but no! nurses have a mind of their own.
anyways, what i really wanted to emphasize is that we should give nurses more recognition and love ! the flying nightingales has become another source of inspiration for me to do well in college and study more for the people in need. imagine a world without nurses.. what would our lives be like?
to end, i gave this book a 5 star rating BECAUSE!! just read it y’all please i am begging lol it has so much depth, drama, funsies, and more! i love my nightingales <3
Thank you to the author for this wonderfully written book! I would love to have a paperback version of this one when it finally releases! thank you to NetGalley as well <3
the inner workings of 3 nurses known as the flying nightingales. what. a. story.
this book is narrated by 3 nurses with different personalities, values, and stories to tell. i don’t want to say much about this book because it is still an ARC and it is yet to be published so this review will be written in a more general way.
death of a flying nightingale is an ARC written by Laura Jensen Walker and it is the most real, raw, sad, but also moving piece of literature i have ever read in my life that has truly made an impact on me. i was more than excited when i saw the word “Nightingale” on a book that’s sitting prettily on NetGalley and requested for the book IMMEDIATELY.
i’ve always wanted to be a military nurse because i’ve met one and her story was beyond amazing, thrilling, and admirable. and so, i was really inspired by her and now i am striving hard to become a nurse. though now, i want to be a pediatric nurse <3 but who knows right? if that being a military nurse is my calling then i will answer it whole heartedly. upon reading this book, i was introduced to a more realistic day to day basis of what one’s life is flying in the air. the duties of a nurse is so HARD if i am being frank. it is one of the hardest medical related course in my opinion and i’m saying this not because i am struggling with my course, but because nurses are the one who are doing it all.
nurses are doing so much and in most cases, they are the ones doing it ALL for their patients and the patient’s family. and yet what saddens me is how belittled they are. i would hear people often say that nurses are like dogs because they just follow doctors blah blah blah but no! nurses have a mind of their own.
anyways, what i really wanted to emphasize is that we should give nurses more recognition and love ! the flying nightingales has become another source of inspiration for me to do well in college and study more for the people in need. imagine a world without nurses.. what would our lives be like?
to end, i gave this book a 5 star rating BECAUSE!! just read it y’all please i am begging lol it has so much depth, drama, funsies, and more! i love my nightingales <3
Thank you to the author for this wonderfully written book! I would love to have a paperback version of this one when it finally releases! thank you to NetGalley as well <3
August 8, 2024
4.5 gladly rounded up to 5.
Death of a Flying Nightingale is the best of two worlds: historical fiction and murder mystery.
Although I knew of the existence of the Flying Nightingales is was very interesting to read and learn more about this courageous group of women who served as air ambulance nurses as the wounded were evacuated to safety during WW2
The mystery of who murdered one was the icing on the cake and cranked up the tension.
Mauve, Betty and Etta are three stand out Nightingales that the story revolves around.
I cheered them all on , I cried with them all, I worried about them but most of all I admired their strength, determination and tenacity.
Laura Jensen Walker writes a very well written and researched book on the Flying Nightingales that is so atmospheric I felt I was on the flights with them.
Please take time to read the author's note at the end as they add so much to the book and were really appreciated.
Thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the privilege of reading and reviewing this wonderful book.
Death of a Flying Nightingale is the best of two worlds: historical fiction and murder mystery.
Although I knew of the existence of the Flying Nightingales is was very interesting to read and learn more about this courageous group of women who served as air ambulance nurses as the wounded were evacuated to safety during WW2
The mystery of who murdered one was the icing on the cake and cranked up the tension.
Mauve, Betty and Etta are three stand out Nightingales that the story revolves around.
I cheered them all on , I cried with them all, I worried about them but most of all I admired their strength, determination and tenacity.
Laura Jensen Walker writes a very well written and researched book on the Flying Nightingales that is so atmospheric I felt I was on the flights with them.
Please take time to read the author's note at the end as they add so much to the book and were really appreciated.
Thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the privilege of reading and reviewing this wonderful book.
May 17, 2024
I had never heard of the flying nightingales and I love learning new things about the WW2. These ladies were really brave! And the murders were a great addition to this book. Although I loved the rare times something different happend after landing.
Also, the different perspectives were great and you really get to know these women.
I did have an issue with this book: it became really repetitive. Lots of details about the characters and what they did on the flights got repeated a lot of times.
What really got my attention with this books: the author did such a great job with the epilogue! The feeling put into this part of the book was really amazing!
3,5 stars from me.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with the arc of this book. My opinions are my own.
Also, the different perspectives were great and you really get to know these women.
I did have an issue with this book: it became really repetitive. Lots of details about the characters and what they did on the flights got repeated a lot of times.
What really got my attention with this books: the author did such a great job with the epilogue! The feeling put into this part of the book was really amazing!
3,5 stars from me.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with the arc of this book. My opinions are my own.
April 11, 2024
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this one! I had never heard of the Flying Nightingales, despite my vivid interest in WWII. The writing was easy to get into and the characters albeit a little tropey at first, were enjoyable to read about. The characters became more fleshed out as the story went on and I really liked how nuanced they became in the epilogue. This was a thoroughly enjoyable historical fiction, with loveable characters and a fast paced plot.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #DeathOfAFlyingNightingale #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this one! I had never heard of the Flying Nightingales, despite my vivid interest in WWII. The writing was easy to get into and the characters albeit a little tropey at first, were enjoyable to read about. The characters became more fleshed out as the story went on and I really liked how nuanced they became in the epilogue. This was a thoroughly enjoyable historical fiction, with loveable characters and a fast paced plot.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #DeathOfAFlyingNightingale #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 7, 2024
Death Of A Flying Nightingale is a fantastic book. I enjoyed reading about the remarkable courage of these young women, which is in no way inferior to that of their male counterparts.
I would classify the book as a historical women's fiction with a dash of murder mystery. It shows that feminism and traditional values can exist side by side.
But it also deals with topics such as war, loss and grief, suicide, hunger, human cruelty, friendship, family, love and homosexuality.
I highly recommend reading this story.
I would classify the book as a historical women's fiction with a dash of murder mystery. It shows that feminism and traditional values can exist side by side.
But it also deals with topics such as war, loss and grief, suicide, hunger, human cruelty, friendship, family, love and homosexuality.
I highly recommend reading this story.
May 18, 2024
The Flying Nightingales are a group of air ambulance nurses tasked with looking after the wounded soldiers left behind as WWII casualties. Often overlooked by history, this book gives a glimpse into the lives of the Nightingales in and out of war, the essential supportive roles they played, the relationships they formed, love they found, and the tragedies that they suffered.
I was not overly impressed by this book. It book barely qualifies as a mystery novel and only describes the role of the Flying Nightingale's in WWII in a basic surface level sense. It's more accurate to describe this book as a romance novel with a WWII setting. The character's backgrounds and personalities are interesting, but they lack depth and nuance. Overall this book is very fluffy and light except for a handful of instances of explicit scenes mostly including descriptions of injury and discussions of rape. It did not fulfill the promises of being a gritty description of the Nightingale's war duties or building an interesting mystery. However this might be a good story for someone who likes wholesome romances and happy endings set on a background of war.
The book starts out quite strong with great descriptions of the Nightingales doing their jobs on the Dakota planes and treating the injured soldiers. It was really impactful to hear about the emotional impact that seeing all of the injured soldiers has on the nurses and how that impacts their psyches. Unfortunately that side of the story falls to the wayside incredibly early and we no longer accompany the ladies on their flights. We get very brief single sentence descriptions that they had been on a jump across the channel and that was it. I found this really disappointing because hearing about the nurses important and often forgotten jobs on the planes was what originally drew me to this book. Similarly the mystery aspect of the story was incredibly underdeveloped and really had no place being in this story as it is. Several of the Nightingale's die under mysterious circumstances, but the remaining characters do not do anything to investigate their deaths.
Despite my personal feelings towards this book, I absolutely think that this could be a good book for a certain kind of reader. If you are looking for a feel good story where the characters experience and grow from traumatic experiences, but the trauma itself is not extensively described. If you want a story of people overcoming past traumas to find loving relationships and happiness. If you want to read a story set in a war, but you don't want to read about the nitty gritty details then this book is for you! The romances are sweet! The bonds built between the women are fun to read about. It's great that the book is bringing attention to a group of women who played an essential role in the war that have gone unrecognized to this point. But it's not a mystery novel and it's not a war story.
Thank you to Netgalley, Level Best Books, and IBPA for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
I was not overly impressed by this book. It book barely qualifies as a mystery novel and only describes the role of the Flying Nightingale's in WWII in a basic surface level sense. It's more accurate to describe this book as a romance novel with a WWII setting. The character's backgrounds and personalities are interesting, but they lack depth and nuance. Overall this book is very fluffy and light except for a handful of instances of explicit scenes mostly including descriptions of injury and discussions of rape. It did not fulfill the promises of being a gritty description of the Nightingale's war duties or building an interesting mystery. However this might be a good story for someone who likes wholesome romances and happy endings set on a background of war.
The book starts out quite strong with great descriptions of the Nightingales doing their jobs on the Dakota planes and treating the injured soldiers. It was really impactful to hear about the emotional impact that seeing all of the injured soldiers has on the nurses and how that impacts their psyches. Unfortunately that side of the story falls to the wayside incredibly early and we no longer accompany the ladies on their flights. We get very brief single sentence descriptions that they had been on a jump across the channel and that was it. I found this really disappointing because hearing about the nurses important and often forgotten jobs on the planes was what originally drew me to this book. Similarly the mystery aspect of the story was incredibly underdeveloped and really had no place being in this story as it is. Several of the Nightingale's die under mysterious circumstances, but the remaining characters do not do anything to investigate their deaths.
Despite my personal feelings towards this book, I absolutely think that this could be a good book for a certain kind of reader. If you are looking for a feel good story where the characters experience and grow from traumatic experiences, but the trauma itself is not extensively described. If you want a story of people overcoming past traumas to find loving relationships and happiness. If you want to read a story set in a war, but you don't want to read about the nitty gritty details then this book is for you! The romances are sweet! The bonds built between the women are fun to read about. It's great that the book is bringing attention to a group of women who played an essential role in the war that have gone unrecognized to this point. But it's not a mystery novel and it's not a war story.
Thank you to Netgalley, Level Best Books, and IBPA for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
June 12, 2024
Slightly mixed feelings about this book. The romances were all very sweet, including Etta and Louise, which I was fully expecting to end up in a 'gal pals, no no, it's all very hetero' situation, but it was actually just *extremely* slow burn, because, well, Etta hadn't considered the possibility because it was, you know, the 1940s. The epilogue was a nice touch, with all three of the gay characters getting happy endings (I read a fair few 'saga books' and I've only read two with anyone gay in, and only one had a hesitant tentative 'maybe she's met someone?' ending). Maeve and her new love, and Betty finally being properly seen after always being 'the plain one' were both very sweet, too, and all of them made me have a little cry at one point or another. The cast of characters were also mostly strongly characterised, and I enjoyed 'getting to know' them all.
The stories of the nursing orderlies' work was an interesting (and apparently based in a decent bit of research although I'm sure there was some embellishment as there always will be in historical fiction) look into the types of things that went on. But there was a bit of a disjointed feel to it, there were some 'subplots' that ran through the book (the romances, the deaths of the three women, and so on) but there didn't really feel like there was much of an overarching plot, just a series of vignettes of their life in the last year of the war.
The mystery element (which I rather assumed would be the central plot, with one or more of the main characters involved in investigation, given the title makes it sound like a murder mystery) felt very underdone, someone died, no real explanation was found, everyone stopped worrying, someone died, an explanation was found, everyone stopped worrying. Someone died, everyone worried and the (military) police finally got involved, but they came to the conclusion it was an awful accident. Then near the end, someone exposed the killer (of two of the women) and also knew what happened with the second, but also he'd just killed the guy (deservedly so on many counts) so it was all fine and nobody needed to know, and it was the guy I'd pretty much expected it to be for about 60% of the book (although there was a bit of a twist relating to one of the dead women, and the relationship between the killer and the one who put a stop to him, I suppose). That said, I suppose because it was actually only a very minor sub-plot, it doesn't matter too much that it wasn't much of a mystery, but if I had been here only as a fan of mysteries (rather than as someone who enjoys slightly melodramatic historical fiction set in WWII (the aforementioned saga books)) I'd have been quite put out.
Additionally, there are a number of Americanisms ('scooch over', 'cold-cocked') which as a modern English reader I understand well enough, but which don't really feel fitting to British/Irish characters in this time period (I can't imagine my grandmother saying 'jerk' or 'your hair's gotten mussed'), and there's also a moment where the Irish character finds a fridge in a rural cottage she's staying in and is entirely blasé about it - I am not 100% certain how common they were in 1940s Ireland, but as far as I can find out, only about 2% of homes in Britain had a fridge at that time, so I'd expect, well, no fridge, but if there was a fridge, I'd expect her to be a bit impressed or surprised at least! (My understanding is that closer to 50% of US homes at that time had fridges, so I would guess the author simply has a different cultural context on that and it didn't occur to her that people in Britain and Ireland might not have been so used to seeing them! Which is fair enough, but still)
And yet, in spite of all that complaining I just did (okay, the surprise (I mean, I spent the whole book hoping Etta was being set up as unknowingly gay, but assuming it would all end up as 'gal pals') lesbians helped quite a lot, but also, I'm a sucker for a sweet romance, and this had three of those) I'm glad I read this book, and the author's note at the end was a nice overview of the research she did. Plus, who doesn't love a book with an Audrey Hepburn easter egg?
With thanks to Netgalley and Level Best Books for the ARC
The stories of the nursing orderlies' work was an interesting (and apparently based in a decent bit of research although I'm sure there was some embellishment as there always will be in historical fiction) look into the types of things that went on. But there was a bit of a disjointed feel to it, there were some 'subplots' that ran through the book (the romances, the deaths of the three women, and so on) but there didn't really feel like there was much of an overarching plot, just a series of vignettes of their life in the last year of the war.
The mystery element (which I rather assumed would be the central plot, with one or more of the main characters involved in investigation, given the title makes it sound like a murder mystery) felt very underdone, someone died, no real explanation was found, everyone stopped worrying, someone died, an explanation was found, everyone stopped worrying. Someone died, everyone worried and the (military) police finally got involved, but they came to the conclusion it was an awful accident. Then near the end, someone exposed the killer (of two of the women) and also knew what happened with the second, but also he'd just killed the guy (deservedly so on many counts) so it was all fine and nobody needed to know, and it was the guy I'd pretty much expected it to be for about 60% of the book (although there was a bit of a twist relating to one of the dead women, and the relationship between the killer and the one who put a stop to him, I suppose). That said, I suppose because it was actually only a very minor sub-plot, it doesn't matter too much that it wasn't much of a mystery, but if I had been here only as a fan of mysteries (rather than as someone who enjoys slightly melodramatic historical fiction set in WWII (the aforementioned saga books)) I'd have been quite put out.
Additionally, there are a number of Americanisms ('scooch over', 'cold-cocked') which as a modern English reader I understand well enough, but which don't really feel fitting to British/Irish characters in this time period (I can't imagine my grandmother saying 'jerk' or 'your hair's gotten mussed'), and there's also a moment where the Irish character finds a fridge in a rural cottage she's staying in and is entirely blasé about it - I am not 100% certain how common they were in 1940s Ireland, but as far as I can find out, only about 2% of homes in Britain had a fridge at that time, so I'd expect, well, no fridge, but if there was a fridge, I'd expect her to be a bit impressed or surprised at least! (My understanding is that closer to 50% of US homes at that time had fridges, so I would guess the author simply has a different cultural context on that and it didn't occur to her that people in Britain and Ireland might not have been so used to seeing them! Which is fair enough, but still)
And yet, in spite of all that complaining I just did (okay, the surprise (I mean, I spent the whole book hoping Etta was being set up as unknowingly gay, but assuming it would all end up as 'gal pals') lesbians helped quite a lot, but also, I'm a sucker for a sweet romance, and this had three of those) I'm glad I read this book, and the author's note at the end was a nice overview of the research she did. Plus, who doesn't love a book with an Audrey Hepburn easter egg?
With thanks to Netgalley and Level Best Books for the ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
DEATH OF A FLYING NIGHTINGALE by Laura Jensen Walker is the 1st book in A Nightingale Mystery series. This story revolves around three women – Maeve, Betty, and Etta. All from different walks of life. All now members of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force as nursing orderlies – commonly called the Flying Nightingales.
Maeve Firzgerald, 21 years old, signed up after the death of her fiancé while fighting the Germans. Living in Ireland, considered a neutral nation neither had to enter the war. Each felt duty bound to do so and had joined the British forces. Betty Hall, 17 years old and the youngest Nightingale, She joined after her brother, Wilf, was killed in action. Her mother’s declaration that she was “a plain girl, but good and strong”, had Betty considered herself very ordinary. Etta, neglected and abused, joined to get away from the East Side and her family with a great desire to be a nurse. Sally, a fellow Nightingale, often referred to as everyone’s friend – especially to the male species, became a true and dear friend to Betty, Maeve and Etta.
With the death of several Nightingales and each under strange circumstances, it has everyone’s nerves on edge. However, there was still work to be done, injured to be brought back on the Douglas Dakotas, the “heavy lifters” of the war. Each trip out meant they could deliver supplies and bring back 24 injured soldiers (9 stretchers on each side in rows of 3 with lowest on the floor and then squeeze 6 sitting wounded in the middle). Through it all, the Nightingales saw and did things other couldn’t even begin to imagine. They were a strong lot – loyal to the cause and to each other.
Through it all, relationships develop – some just as a way to escape the events of the war and some life long - some long distance by letters and others within the confines of Cotswolds camp.
DEATH OF A FLYING NIGHTINGALE is an exceptional historical fiction story based on many actual facts from World War II. It’s a fabulous story of hardship, sacrifice, commitment, drive, lifelong friendships, loyalty, family, mystery, romance, murder, intrigue and perseverance. Laura Jensen Walker packs quite the wallop within a time frame of 13 months (June 1944 to July 1945) ending with an epilogue that takes place in September 2015 with the remaining member of the Nightingales. Within that time, she shows us the heroic actions of the brave women and men during that war, the tragic results of war, the different ways people cleared their minds of what they had seen in order to face each new day, and that even in war many of the normal every day emotions formed – like friendships, love, loss, jealousy, secrets, death and kindness. DEATH OF A FLYING NIGHTINGALE is definitely FIVE STAR reading and I recommend it to anyone that loves historical fiction, searching out clues to solve a mystery or just an outstanding read. Being the first book in this series, I can’t wait for future additions to be added!
I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#DeathofaFlyingNightingale #ANightingaleMystery #LauraJensenWalker #HistoricalFiction #mystery
Maeve Firzgerald, 21 years old, signed up after the death of her fiancé while fighting the Germans. Living in Ireland, considered a neutral nation neither had to enter the war. Each felt duty bound to do so and had joined the British forces. Betty Hall, 17 years old and the youngest Nightingale, She joined after her brother, Wilf, was killed in action. Her mother’s declaration that she was “a plain girl, but good and strong”, had Betty considered herself very ordinary. Etta, neglected and abused, joined to get away from the East Side and her family with a great desire to be a nurse. Sally, a fellow Nightingale, often referred to as everyone’s friend – especially to the male species, became a true and dear friend to Betty, Maeve and Etta.
With the death of several Nightingales and each under strange circumstances, it has everyone’s nerves on edge. However, there was still work to be done, injured to be brought back on the Douglas Dakotas, the “heavy lifters” of the war. Each trip out meant they could deliver supplies and bring back 24 injured soldiers (9 stretchers on each side in rows of 3 with lowest on the floor and then squeeze 6 sitting wounded in the middle). Through it all, the Nightingales saw and did things other couldn’t even begin to imagine. They were a strong lot – loyal to the cause and to each other.
Through it all, relationships develop – some just as a way to escape the events of the war and some life long - some long distance by letters and others within the confines of Cotswolds camp.
DEATH OF A FLYING NIGHTINGALE is an exceptional historical fiction story based on many actual facts from World War II. It’s a fabulous story of hardship, sacrifice, commitment, drive, lifelong friendships, loyalty, family, mystery, romance, murder, intrigue and perseverance. Laura Jensen Walker packs quite the wallop within a time frame of 13 months (June 1944 to July 1945) ending with an epilogue that takes place in September 2015 with the remaining member of the Nightingales. Within that time, she shows us the heroic actions of the brave women and men during that war, the tragic results of war, the different ways people cleared their minds of what they had seen in order to face each new day, and that even in war many of the normal every day emotions formed – like friendships, love, loss, jealousy, secrets, death and kindness. DEATH OF A FLYING NIGHTINGALE is definitely FIVE STAR reading and I recommend it to anyone that loves historical fiction, searching out clues to solve a mystery or just an outstanding read. Being the first book in this series, I can’t wait for future additions to be added!
I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#DeathofaFlyingNightingale #ANightingaleMystery #LauraJensenWalker #HistoricalFiction #mystery
February 11, 2025
Death of a Flying Nightingale — A Gripping Tribute to WWII’s Unsung Heroes
In Death of a Flying Nightingale, author Laura Jensen Walker delivers a powerful and heart-wrenching tale inspired by the real-life heroines of World War II—the courageous women known as “The Flying Nightingales.” Far from the romantic image painted by wartime newspapers, this novel strips away the glamour to reveal the grit, resilience, and sacrifices of the air ambulance nurses who risked everything to save the wounded from the front lines.
The story follows three extraordinary women from vastly different backgrounds:
Maeve, an Irishwoman fueled by grief after her fiancé’s death, whose determination to serve in the RAF masks her inner heartbreak.
Etta, a street-smart survivor fleeing the harsh realities of London’s slums, yearning for a better life amidst the chaos of war.
Betty, a farm girl haunted by the loss of her brother, whose enlistment is both an act of defiance against fate and a personal mission to prevent others from suffering as he did.
Together, they form an unbreakable bond, forged in the crucible of war. Their daily reality is anything but glamorous—grappling with horrific injuries, emotional trauma, and the ever-present threat of enemy fire as they evacuate the wounded from active combat zones. The tension escalates when one of their own is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Was it an accident? A suicide? Or something far more sinister?
When another nurse dies mysteriously, the question becomes chillingly clear: Is someone targeting the Flying Nightingales?
Despite their grief and fear, Maeve, Etta, and Betty must navigate the dual battlefields of war and suspicion, all while maintaining the stoic bravery expected of them. The mystery adds a gripping layer of suspense, intertwining seamlessly with the raw, emotional portrayal of wartime camaraderie, loss, and the enduring strength of friendship.
Pros:
Authentic Historical Detail: The novel vividly captures the harsh realities of WWII, from the danger-filled skies to the emotional toll on the home front.
Complex, Relatable Characters: Maeve, Etta, and Betty are brilliantly written—each flawed, fierce, and deeply human.
A Unique Perspective on WWII: Focusing on the often-overlooked role of air ambulance nurses brings fresh insight into the war’s unsung heroes.
Suspenseful Mystery: The element of intrigue keeps readers on edge, blending historical fiction with a compelling whodunit.
Cons:
Graphic Descriptions: Some scenes depicting war injuries and trauma are intense, which might be overwhelming for sensitive readers.
Pacing Fluctuations: The narrative occasionally slows during introspective moments, though these deepen character development.
Final Verdict:
Death of a Flying Nightingale is more than just a WWII novel; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the bravery, resilience, and sisterhood of the Flying Nightingales. A gripping blend of historical fiction and mystery, this story will stay with readers long after the final page—reminding us of the countless unsung heroes who fought their own battles far from the front lines.
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.5/5)
In Death of a Flying Nightingale, author Laura Jensen Walker delivers a powerful and heart-wrenching tale inspired by the real-life heroines of World War II—the courageous women known as “The Flying Nightingales.” Far from the romantic image painted by wartime newspapers, this novel strips away the glamour to reveal the grit, resilience, and sacrifices of the air ambulance nurses who risked everything to save the wounded from the front lines.
The story follows three extraordinary women from vastly different backgrounds:
Maeve, an Irishwoman fueled by grief after her fiancé’s death, whose determination to serve in the RAF masks her inner heartbreak.
Etta, a street-smart survivor fleeing the harsh realities of London’s slums, yearning for a better life amidst the chaos of war.
Betty, a farm girl haunted by the loss of her brother, whose enlistment is both an act of defiance against fate and a personal mission to prevent others from suffering as he did.
Together, they form an unbreakable bond, forged in the crucible of war. Their daily reality is anything but glamorous—grappling with horrific injuries, emotional trauma, and the ever-present threat of enemy fire as they evacuate the wounded from active combat zones. The tension escalates when one of their own is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Was it an accident? A suicide? Or something far more sinister?
When another nurse dies mysteriously, the question becomes chillingly clear: Is someone targeting the Flying Nightingales?
Despite their grief and fear, Maeve, Etta, and Betty must navigate the dual battlefields of war and suspicion, all while maintaining the stoic bravery expected of them. The mystery adds a gripping layer of suspense, intertwining seamlessly with the raw, emotional portrayal of wartime camaraderie, loss, and the enduring strength of friendship.
Pros:
Authentic Historical Detail: The novel vividly captures the harsh realities of WWII, from the danger-filled skies to the emotional toll on the home front.
Complex, Relatable Characters: Maeve, Etta, and Betty are brilliantly written—each flawed, fierce, and deeply human.
A Unique Perspective on WWII: Focusing on the often-overlooked role of air ambulance nurses brings fresh insight into the war’s unsung heroes.
Suspenseful Mystery: The element of intrigue keeps readers on edge, blending historical fiction with a compelling whodunit.
Cons:
Graphic Descriptions: Some scenes depicting war injuries and trauma are intense, which might be overwhelming for sensitive readers.
Pacing Fluctuations: The narrative occasionally slows during introspective moments, though these deepen character development.
Final Verdict:
Death of a Flying Nightingale is more than just a WWII novel; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the bravery, resilience, and sisterhood of the Flying Nightingales. A gripping blend of historical fiction and mystery, this story will stay with readers long after the final page—reminding us of the countless unsung heroes who fought their own battles far from the front lines.
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.5/5)
October 16, 2024
The story follows four Flying Nightingales in camp during World War II. We get a view of the difficult times encountered, the anxiety with the challenges they faced, and the friendships forged going through something so arduous.
Sally, Betty, Maeve, and Etta are the four main characters. You get some back story for each - where they're from, information about their families, and you see the deep meanings that led to them joining the WAAF as Flying Nightingales. Nightingales would fly back and forth between active military camps to pick up wounded soldiers, and transport them back to the camp in Down Ampney, where they could get them to doctors and hospitals in England. Due to carrying munitions on the plane, they were not allowed to mark the aircraft with the symbol of the Red Cross, making them a target for Axis militaries and increasing the danger of these expeditions.
While dealing with the drama that is war time, caring for wounded soldiers, and witnessing the atrocities of active battle, Flying Nightingales keep turning up dead. Are these the seemingly innocuous deaths that they are made out to be (albeit awful luck), or is there something more sinister at play? Tensions run high, as this "family" must learn who they can really trust and who they shouldn't.
When I began this book, I didn't know anything about Flying Nightingales. It was a compelling topic to learn about and something I will definitely be looking into more! It is clear the author did thorough research to present these women as the heros they were in a commonly overlooked job.
The story itself was a little slow to get into, and some of the story got a little repetitive for me. The mystery aspect was enjoyable - I just wish it had been a little more in-depth and weaved through out as opposed to so much monotony through the first half or so of the book. By the end, I believe all of the storylines had been tied up sufficiently - even with an unexpected twist within the last 50 pages. Some characters' stories ended how I thought they would, and others didn't.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. I likely wouldn't read it again just because the mystery aspect has been solved for me. However, for an obscure aspect of WW2 in the WAAF and the Flying Nightingales, my interest has been piqued.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sally, Betty, Maeve, and Etta are the four main characters. You get some back story for each - where they're from, information about their families, and you see the deep meanings that led to them joining the WAAF as Flying Nightingales. Nightingales would fly back and forth between active military camps to pick up wounded soldiers, and transport them back to the camp in Down Ampney, where they could get them to doctors and hospitals in England. Due to carrying munitions on the plane, they were not allowed to mark the aircraft with the symbol of the Red Cross, making them a target for Axis militaries and increasing the danger of these expeditions.
While dealing with the drama that is war time, caring for wounded soldiers, and witnessing the atrocities of active battle, Flying Nightingales keep turning up dead. Are these the seemingly innocuous deaths that they are made out to be (albeit awful luck), or is there something more sinister at play? Tensions run high, as this "family" must learn who they can really trust and who they shouldn't.
When I began this book, I didn't know anything about Flying Nightingales. It was a compelling topic to learn about and something I will definitely be looking into more! It is clear the author did thorough research to present these women as the heros they were in a commonly overlooked job.
The story itself was a little slow to get into, and some of the story got a little repetitive for me. The mystery aspect was enjoyable - I just wish it had been a little more in-depth and weaved through out as opposed to so much monotony through the first half or so of the book. By the end, I believe all of the storylines had been tied up sufficiently - even with an unexpected twist within the last 50 pages. Some characters' stories ended how I thought they would, and others didn't.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. I likely wouldn't read it again just because the mystery aspect has been solved for me. However, for an obscure aspect of WW2 in the WAAF and the Flying Nightingales, my interest has been piqued.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2024
What an amazing story based on the lives of real heroes!
The first time that I had heard of women accompanying flights to nurse soldiers was a book by Soraya Lane about the Medical Air Evacuation Transport Squadron. I remember thinking that for someone who devours any book set during WW2, how had I not heard of these medics before?
When I read this book, not only did it contain stories from a group I had never heard of but they were my countrymen too. I devoured it like I would toast with Betty's mum's jam!
The 3 female leads had strong distinguishable characters and were extremely likable. I followed their stories hoping for their happy endings and feeling every high and low right along with them. I enjoyed a lot of the secondary characters and feel like everyone had endings that I would want for them. The Sister is one character that I feel didn't get the consequences that I thought her indiscretions would and should give her.
The story flowed so well and didn't get slow or dull in any section. It was very well written and I feel the author had done a tremendous amount of research in preparation for such a seamlessly written book. I'm not quite sure that the title is the right fit for the story as it refers to a singular Nightingale. Maybe Death of THE Flying Nightingales would be more accurate, and if I'm honest, more of a draw. The fact that this is the start of a series is very exciting. Maybe the next books will be based at different bases to the Down Ampney crew.
I appreciate any book that highlights heroic actions or people. Especially so, when so little is published about them already. Reading the authors note at the end and hearing how so much of it was based on true memoirs from the Nightingales, made me feel closer and more appreciative of these brave women. I loved the little Easter Eggs that were included. It makes the characters even more real when they act through history that we know is real. I am very interested in exploring what else Laura Jensen Walker has written.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for a chance to read a copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
The first time that I had heard of women accompanying flights to nurse soldiers was a book by Soraya Lane about the Medical Air Evacuation Transport Squadron. I remember thinking that for someone who devours any book set during WW2, how had I not heard of these medics before?
When I read this book, not only did it contain stories from a group I had never heard of but they were my countrymen too. I devoured it like I would toast with Betty's mum's jam!
The 3 female leads had strong distinguishable characters and were extremely likable. I followed their stories hoping for their happy endings and feeling every high and low right along with them. I enjoyed a lot of the secondary characters and feel like everyone had endings that I would want for them. The Sister is one character that I feel didn't get the consequences that I thought her indiscretions would and should give her.
The story flowed so well and didn't get slow or dull in any section. It was very well written and I feel the author had done a tremendous amount of research in preparation for such a seamlessly written book. I'm not quite sure that the title is the right fit for the story as it refers to a singular Nightingale. Maybe Death of THE Flying Nightingales would be more accurate, and if I'm honest, more of a draw. The fact that this is the start of a series is very exciting. Maybe the next books will be based at different bases to the Down Ampney crew.
I appreciate any book that highlights heroic actions or people. Especially so, when so little is published about them already. Reading the authors note at the end and hearing how so much of it was based on true memoirs from the Nightingales, made me feel closer and more appreciative of these brave women. I loved the little Easter Eggs that were included. It makes the characters even more real when they act through history that we know is real. I am very interested in exploring what else Laura Jensen Walker has written.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for a chance to read a copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 5, 2024
Death of a Flying Nightingale is far from a traditional mystery, although there are three deaths of air ambulance nursing orderlies stationed at combination air stripes/field hospitals in England. It was from these rural facilities that Douglas Dakota transport planes flew medical supplies, food and munitions to France, Belgium and the Netherlands and returned each carrying up to 24 wounded from battles starting with D-Day and lasting until after the end of the war in Europe.
As usual the role of military women in the forefront of war has long been downplayed or remained unknown. What Laura Jensen Walker has done in this primarily historical novel is to pay homage to the young woman of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force who served as Flying Nightingales aboard air evac flights. These gals were not nurses, but volunteers given 6 weeks of training for duty caring for the physical and emotional needs of the wounded on flights over the channel to an area of southern England north of Portsmith and west of Oxford. Although the return trips were humanitarian missions, the outbound trips were not and therefore more subject to enemy fire.
Told from the points of view of three nursing orderlies from different backgrounds, the storyline covers all aspects of their professional and personal lives during their service. The clever use of letters to and from back home added significantly to understanding what unique positions these women found themselves in between their normal prewar lives and the stresses of their military lives.
Meticulously researched, Ms. Walker has done an excellent job of putting the reader into the minds and hearts of these women whose contributions to the war effort and the survival of thousands of wounded and later on also POWs, is much in need of recognition.
For fans of WWII novels, especially those set in England or those which cover little known subjects, I recommend this book and look forward to another in what may be a series.
Thank you to the author, the publisher Level Best Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC.
As usual the role of military women in the forefront of war has long been downplayed or remained unknown. What Laura Jensen Walker has done in this primarily historical novel is to pay homage to the young woman of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force who served as Flying Nightingales aboard air evac flights. These gals were not nurses, but volunteers given 6 weeks of training for duty caring for the physical and emotional needs of the wounded on flights over the channel to an area of southern England north of Portsmith and west of Oxford. Although the return trips were humanitarian missions, the outbound trips were not and therefore more subject to enemy fire.
Told from the points of view of three nursing orderlies from different backgrounds, the storyline covers all aspects of their professional and personal lives during their service. The clever use of letters to and from back home added significantly to understanding what unique positions these women found themselves in between their normal prewar lives and the stresses of their military lives.
Meticulously researched, Ms. Walker has done an excellent job of putting the reader into the minds and hearts of these women whose contributions to the war effort and the survival of thousands of wounded and later on also POWs, is much in need of recognition.
For fans of WWII novels, especially those set in England or those which cover little known subjects, I recommend this book and look forward to another in what may be a series.
Thank you to the author, the publisher Level Best Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC.
May 2, 2024
This story delves into the lives and experiences of air ambulance nurses known as the Flying Nightingales, who dedicated their lives to ensuring that severely injured soldiers of the war could return home in hopes of making a fresh start, despite the gruesome traumas and experiences they faced on the battlefield. Though a work of historical fiction, some scenes and details are inspired by true events.
Truth be told, this is my top favorite ARC I've read this year so far. It's akin to how no words can adequately describe my love for this book! Everything about this is absolutely stunning, evocative, and life-changing.
The characters in this book are so endearing — especially the women, the Flying Nightingales, who braved everything to be of service to those in need. Mauve has captured my heart in an instant. Her story is so enchanting that it had me crossing my fingers while reading this ARC, hoping for the peace, happiness, and love she rightfully deserves.
Witnessing Betty's growth from start to finish, I couldn't be prouder. Etta, on the other hand, is a beautiful revelation; her journey may be harrowing, but her strength is admirable. She's an inspiration, and I have grown to deeply love her character as I read this story. And goodness, Sally's character will always have a special place in my heart, even though she wrecked me.
From the narration of events, to the introduction of each character, the development of the story, and the progression of relationships — I would definitely say that this book is a masterpiece, meant not only to educate about the realities of war, but also to help people grasp the importance of history and remember those who went to great lengths to make the present and future better.
I also love the fair share of romances in this book; it's so poetic, beautifully descriptive, and reminds me of what makes life even more worth living. Oh, how I would love to read this story over and over again! I actually aim to have a physical copy of this book once it's out! Thank you, NetGalley and Level Best Books for this ARC! 🤍
Truth be told, this is my top favorite ARC I've read this year so far. It's akin to how no words can adequately describe my love for this book! Everything about this is absolutely stunning, evocative, and life-changing.
The characters in this book are so endearing — especially the women, the Flying Nightingales, who braved everything to be of service to those in need. Mauve has captured my heart in an instant. Her story is so enchanting that it had me crossing my fingers while reading this ARC, hoping for the peace, happiness, and love she rightfully deserves.
Witnessing Betty's growth from start to finish, I couldn't be prouder. Etta, on the other hand, is a beautiful revelation; her journey may be harrowing, but her strength is admirable. She's an inspiration, and I have grown to deeply love her character as I read this story. And goodness, Sally's character will always have a special place in my heart, even though she wrecked me.
From the narration of events, to the introduction of each character, the development of the story, and the progression of relationships — I would definitely say that this book is a masterpiece, meant not only to educate about the realities of war, but also to help people grasp the importance of history and remember those who went to great lengths to make the present and future better.
I also love the fair share of romances in this book; it's so poetic, beautifully descriptive, and reminds me of what makes life even more worth living. Oh, how I would love to read this story over and over again! I actually aim to have a physical copy of this book once it's out! Thank you, NetGalley and Level Best Books for this ARC! 🤍
April 28, 2024
Thank you to Laura Jensen Walker and net galley for allowing me to read this book.
This book details the flying nightingales a group of nurses AIDS that flew on planes during the war to pick up injured You're fighting men and flying them back to get them into hospitals. In this book detailed the lives of these young ladies before they came to the camp and while they were at the camp and it also had a little bit of a murder mystery aspect to it As there were a few at several deaths during the book and at the time you weren't really sure where these murders were they accidental deaths.
The primary nurse that was followed is Mauve she was From ireland. I love the way they this book detailed their lives before they came to the camp and alsoI love the way they this book detailed their lives before they came to the camp and also Turn in a little romance free to the nurses.
As I mentioned there were several deaths in this book and at the time you weren't really sure where they murdered or was it an accidental death and as the book progressed you came to learn these answers and it was a fascinating read.
I also loved the way the author tied up everything at the end so any questions that you had throughout the book were neatly answered and everyone likes a good ending.
She even detailed years later on their lives and how everyone ended up.
Also love the acknowledgment and information at the end of the book that's 84 detail into the nurses and the fine nightingales and historical information that she provided was very fascinating.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction who loves a little murder mystery and maybe a little romance thrown in as well it was a great book and I would recommend this to anyone
This book details the flying nightingales a group of nurses AIDS that flew on planes during the war to pick up injured You're fighting men and flying them back to get them into hospitals. In this book detailed the lives of these young ladies before they came to the camp and while they were at the camp and it also had a little bit of a murder mystery aspect to it As there were a few at several deaths during the book and at the time you weren't really sure where these murders were they accidental deaths.
The primary nurse that was followed is Mauve she was From ireland. I love the way they this book detailed their lives before they came to the camp and alsoI love the way they this book detailed their lives before they came to the camp and also Turn in a little romance free to the nurses.
As I mentioned there were several deaths in this book and at the time you weren't really sure where they murdered or was it an accidental death and as the book progressed you came to learn these answers and it was a fascinating read.
I also loved the way the author tied up everything at the end so any questions that you had throughout the book were neatly answered and everyone likes a good ending.
She even detailed years later on their lives and how everyone ended up.
Also love the acknowledgment and information at the end of the book that's 84 detail into the nurses and the fine nightingales and historical information that she provided was very fascinating.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction who loves a little murder mystery and maybe a little romance thrown in as well it was a great book and I would recommend this to anyone
May 15, 2024
"Death of a Flying Nightingale" is a romance set in 1944-1945 in England. There was no mystery, just people dying. A pregnant nursing orderly from a nearby base was murdered, but the main characters quickly forgot about her. Another nursing orderly was found dead, apparently suicide. But was it? They soon stopped questioning it but hid that it might have been a suicide to make it easier on her parents. Then another nursing orderly's found clearly murdered. They left the investigation to the military police. Later, someone spontaneously confessed. So, not a mystery.
Most of the story was about the growing romances between Maeve and a doctor, Etta and a nurse, and Betty with one of her patients. Betty's romance was mostly through letters, but many of the women in the story were having sexual relationships outside of marriage. It didn't seem very realistic that so few were shocked by or disapproved of the barely-hidden sexual encounters going on, including Etta ending up in a lesbian relationship and a reoccurring male character in a homosexual relationship.
There were scenes describing the types of situations that a nursing orderly dealt with. While interesting, I never felt immersed in the story nor was I left feeling like these people might have really existed. Which is a little ironic since some of these scenes were based off of a real person's experiences as a 'Flying Nightingale.' There were no sex scenes. There was a fair amount of bad language.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Most of the story was about the growing romances between Maeve and a doctor, Etta and a nurse, and Betty with one of her patients. Betty's romance was mostly through letters, but many of the women in the story were having sexual relationships outside of marriage. It didn't seem very realistic that so few were shocked by or disapproved of the barely-hidden sexual encounters going on, including Etta ending up in a lesbian relationship and a reoccurring male character in a homosexual relationship.
There were scenes describing the types of situations that a nursing orderly dealt with. While interesting, I never felt immersed in the story nor was I left feeling like these people might have really existed. Which is a little ironic since some of these scenes were based off of a real person's experiences as a 'Flying Nightingale.' There were no sex scenes. There was a fair amount of bad language.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
August 24, 2024
Even though much of this story was very sad and horrific; the mystery, the "who done it", kept me going when all I wanted to do was sit and cry. Like all historical fiction books, I used this book to guide to discover more about World War Two.
If you have not read much about the Flying Nightingales this story is a great beginning. The author takes the reader into the lives of the brave women and men that flew on Dakotas. Their job was to bring back injured soldiers that need extensive care and surgeries. They kept them breathing. They dressed their wounds. They kept them calm as they doled out tea and comfort.
The story centers on a hut of ladies as they work and live together. There are numerous personalities and the gals come from a wide range of demographics. All those different women created lots and lots of drama. I always enjoy being a fly on the wall, but these gals were super entertaining.
The Flying Nightingales not only had to deal with the dangers of war but be wary of someone trying to kill them. Not much is known. Those in command aren't saying much. Don't go out alone just doesn't seem enough. I had my suspicions. Some of the characters had their own ideas.
I thought I had the mystery solved. I was wrong. The characters were wrong. The ending left me speechless. I was in shock. Truths silence me.
And the I read the epilogue. I closed the book in tears, wanting to learn as much as can about these brave dedicated war heroes.
If you have not read much about the Flying Nightingales this story is a great beginning. The author takes the reader into the lives of the brave women and men that flew on Dakotas. Their job was to bring back injured soldiers that need extensive care and surgeries. They kept them breathing. They dressed their wounds. They kept them calm as they doled out tea and comfort.
The story centers on a hut of ladies as they work and live together. There are numerous personalities and the gals come from a wide range of demographics. All those different women created lots and lots of drama. I always enjoy being a fly on the wall, but these gals were super entertaining.
The Flying Nightingales not only had to deal with the dangers of war but be wary of someone trying to kill them. Not much is known. Those in command aren't saying much. Don't go out alone just doesn't seem enough. I had my suspicions. Some of the characters had their own ideas.
I thought I had the mystery solved. I was wrong. The characters were wrong. The ending left me speechless. I was in shock. Truths silence me.
And the I read the epilogue. I closed the book in tears, wanting to learn as much as can about these brave dedicated war heroes.
August 9, 2024
Historical Fiction Mystery set in England 1944 featuring three very different women serving as WWII air ambulance nurses as they turn sleuth after a fellow nursing orderly dies mysteriously.
1/5 stars: This is the first entry in Jensen Walker's Nightingale Mystery series which is a Historical Fiction Mystery set in 1944 England featuring three very different women, an Irishwoman; a streetwise Londoner and a farm girl, serving as WWII air ambulance nurses as they team up to uncover the truth behind a fellow nursing orderly's mysterious death. I will say the mystery doesn't really get cooking until about 40%. This is more a historical fiction novel with a bit of a murder mystery plot but as I enjoyed the characters and subject matter I kept reading. Told in multiple POV, Jensen Walker's character work's nicely done; the characters are well-rounded and incredibly likable. Be warned, Jensen Walker touches on some very tough and sensitive topics, so take care and the CWs. Even though, I liked learning about this group of overlooked female WWII heroes and I could tell Jensen Walker did a lot of research I hated the reveal at 88% which lead me to DNF the book. Very disappointing.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
1/5 stars: This is the first entry in Jensen Walker's Nightingale Mystery series which is a Historical Fiction Mystery set in 1944 England featuring three very different women, an Irishwoman; a streetwise Londoner and a farm girl, serving as WWII air ambulance nurses as they team up to uncover the truth behind a fellow nursing orderly's mysterious death. I will say the mystery doesn't really get cooking until about 40%. This is more a historical fiction novel with a bit of a murder mystery plot but as I enjoyed the characters and subject matter I kept reading. Told in multiple POV, Jensen Walker's character work's nicely done; the characters are well-rounded and incredibly likable. Be warned, Jensen Walker touches on some very tough and sensitive topics, so take care and the CWs. Even though, I liked learning about this group of overlooked female WWII heroes and I could tell Jensen Walker did a lot of research I hated the reveal at 88% which lead me to DNF the book. Very disappointing.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
May 24, 2024
I originally requested this book because of the cover and the synopsis. I'm a fan of history so I was intrigued by the topic because I have never heard of the Flying Nightingales before, even though I took several WWII classes in my life.
I personally am not a fan of multiple POV books, however, I did enjoy getting to know Maeve, Betty and Etta. I think a lot of women's stories from WWII get pushed to the side, but I think it's important to bring them to light.
I wouldn't say this is a historical mystery, I would name it as a cozy read. At the moment, I am not a big fan of this book, which is absolutely no ones fault but my own, I'm just not in the historical novel mood. The beginning started off great, however, along the way it fell flat for me. I became bored with the flight missions and no longer felt interested in the book, unfortunately, but it did spark an interest enough for me to look up the actual Flying Nightingales.
I would like to give this a 2.5/5 stars. Hopefully when it's published, I will be in a better mood to reread it!
Thanks NetGalley and Publisher for the ARC!
I personally am not a fan of multiple POV books, however, I did enjoy getting to know Maeve, Betty and Etta. I think a lot of women's stories from WWII get pushed to the side, but I think it's important to bring them to light.
I wouldn't say this is a historical mystery, I would name it as a cozy read. At the moment, I am not a big fan of this book, which is absolutely no ones fault but my own, I'm just not in the historical novel mood. The beginning started off great, however, along the way it fell flat for me. I became bored with the flight missions and no longer felt interested in the book, unfortunately, but it did spark an interest enough for me to look up the actual Flying Nightingales.
I would like to give this a 2.5/5 stars. Hopefully when it's published, I will be in a better mood to reread it!
Thanks NetGalley and Publisher for the ARC!
September 12, 2024
Death of a Flying Nightingale is a gripping tribute to the unsung heroines of WWII, the brave women known as “The Flying Nightingales.” Laura Walker crafts a poignant, heart-wrenching story of three nurses—Maeve, Etta, and Betty—each from vastly different backgrounds but united by their courage and determination to save lives in the middle of a war zone.
The novel beautifully portrays the emotional and physical toll of war. The scenes are vivid, capturing not just the brutal realities of the battlefield but also the tight-knit bonds formed between these women. What starts as a story of resilience quickly becomes a mystery when one of the Nightingales is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Was it an accident, or is there something more sinister at play?
This novel shines in its ability to balance the intensity of war with the personal struggles of its characters. Each woman is richly developed, and their stories will stay with you long after you turn the last page. If you’re a fan of historical fiction with strong female leads and a hint of mystery, this is a must-read.
The novel beautifully portrays the emotional and physical toll of war. The scenes are vivid, capturing not just the brutal realities of the battlefield but also the tight-knit bonds formed between these women. What starts as a story of resilience quickly becomes a mystery when one of the Nightingales is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Was it an accident, or is there something more sinister at play?
This novel shines in its ability to balance the intensity of war with the personal struggles of its characters. Each woman is richly developed, and their stories will stay with you long after you turn the last page. If you’re a fan of historical fiction with strong female leads and a hint of mystery, this is a must-read.
September 18, 2024
I’ll start off by saying I give this between 3 and 3.5 stars. I was intrigued by the description and the idea of learning about these flying nurses during WWII. For the most part the story delivers on that front. I’m not quite sure how I would characterize this book other than historical, it’s not quite a mystery or thriller, it’s not really a romance although it does contain aspects of all of those genres. So in that it made the experience a bit confusing. I did enjoy learning about this new to me information about women during the Second World War, although I wasn’t such a fan of all the jumping around between narrators. That was hard to follow for me and it kept knocking me out of the flow of the story. There are some graphic parts but in context I don’t think they are gratuitous. It is a war story after all. I think there are great parts and some confusing aspects. Overall I just don’t think this book fully delivered. That’s my two cents your mileage may vary.
I received an ARC through NetGalley this review is my honest opinion.
I received an ARC through NetGalley this review is my honest opinion.
April 16, 2024
‘Death of a Flying Nightingale’ is a bit outside of my go-to genres, and am so glad I took the chance! Laura Jensen Walker created beautiful, unique characters from many differing walks of life that the reader gets to know intimately. The mystery was certainly thrilling - each murder and subsequent investigation was shocking and left me on the edge of my seat, nervous to find out what happened next.
I had never heard of the Flying Nightingales despite enjoying WWII literature, and have found yet another group of heroes - all women - who were overlooked in their day and age. I look forward to learning more about their significant contributions to the Allied war effort.
You must read the Author’s Note - she gives a wonderful history and context for the novel. It was really fun to hear real-life stories she learned about and then incorporated throughout the book.
Thank you to Level Best Books and NetGalley for this eARC copy!!
I had never heard of the Flying Nightingales despite enjoying WWII literature, and have found yet another group of heroes - all women - who were overlooked in their day and age. I look forward to learning more about their significant contributions to the Allied war effort.
You must read the Author’s Note - she gives a wonderful history and context for the novel. It was really fun to hear real-life stories she learned about and then incorporated throughout the book.
Thank you to Level Best Books and NetGalley for this eARC copy!!
June 17, 2024
After D-Day there were thousands of wounded soldiers needing flight transport back to England for more restorative care and the Flying Nightingales were there to provide care. They were all called orderlies (now trained practical nurses of either gender). This was as strenuous and exhausting calling then as now. One night the group of Nightingales on their way to a dance came upon one of their own strangled and left at the side of the road. This is where the mystery is added to the personal stories of the young women and it is very well done. The characters are so well done and engaging that it is easy to identify with them and the varied branches of the tale held my interest strongly. I await the next one!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles via NetGalley. Thank you!
#NightingaleMysteryBk1of3
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles via NetGalley. Thank you!
#NightingaleMysteryBk1of3
September 5, 2024
Death of a Flying Nightingale is an enjoyable read of World War II historical fiction. When I was a kid I used to go to garage sales/rummage sales and look through the old books. I bought and read a couple about Cherry Ames she was a flight nurse during the war during one of the books. This book was similar to that one except with a the allusion of spice. Sex is talked about but it is more fade to black. The mystery of the death of the Nightingale(s) though is not the centerpiece of the story. From the title and description you think you are solving a mystery. Oh, they are scared there is evil lurking out there wanting to kill Nightingales, and they talk about it, but if the person didn't confess to two of his friends what happened, it would not have been solved so that was a bit disappointing. In addition, it was too long. Thank you to Net Galley #netgalley and Level Best Books for my advance reader copy.
September 24, 2024
Death of a Flying Nightingale tells the fictionalized yet historically inspired story of a group of women known as the Nightingales, who served as entertainers and caregivers during World War II. Through multiple points of view, the novel explores their bravery, friendships, and the challenges they faced, weaving in real-life accounts to bring this period of history to life.
Following multiple points of view isn't always easy for me, but once I got into it and understood the structure, I appreciated how well it told the story of the Nightingales. I love historical fiction because it’s both entertaining and educational, and the author did an amazing job blending these elements. The ending really tugged at my heartstrings, especially seeing how each woman's story wrapped up or continued. Learning about the real Nightingales and how their experiences were woven into the book made it even more impactful for me.
Following multiple points of view isn't always easy for me, but once I got into it and understood the structure, I appreciated how well it told the story of the Nightingales. I love historical fiction because it’s both entertaining and educational, and the author did an amazing job blending these elements. The ending really tugged at my heartstrings, especially seeing how each woman's story wrapped up or continued. Learning about the real Nightingales and how their experiences were woven into the book made it even more impactful for me.
November 28, 2024
Death of a Flying Nightingale by Laura Jensen Walker tells the story of the Flying Nightingales, young women who volunteered for the Women's Auxiliary Air Force in Great Britain during WW II. After a bit of medical training, they were assigned to fly into front line areas to evacuate injured servicemen back to British hospitals. The author's level of research resulted in a book that reads like history, she even used stories from memoirs and an interview with a surviving Nightingale in the book. The interactions between the Nightingales, doctors, nurses, pilots and the injured men are very real and keep you reading to find out what will happen. Several of the Nightingales die under mysterious circumstances and the investigation into the deaths, as well as several romances and each woman's goals for the future kept me interested right to the end. Readers of historical fiction and mysteries will love the story while learning about a part of history that deserves to be better known.
August 5, 2024
I started this book in the afternoon thinking I’d read just a bit of it and then couldn’t stop until I finished it. More historical fiction than mystery, I was excited to learn more about these amazing women in WWII flying wounded soldiers out of battlefields. Each Nightingale had their own storyline which was done well with the mystery being part of the book but not the main focus. Each woman had their own past to deal with and needed to confront their own insecurities or trauma to do their job efficiently. I can say that I laughed out loud a couple of times and cried too. I wrote down the books the Author mentioned and now want to read more about these amazing women who were forgotten for so many years! Great book!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
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