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The Girls from the Beach
"We'd heard stories about the nurses in tent seven. A secret mission, stolen money, and spies..."
In 1944, four American nurses disappeared for five days. No one knew what happened to them. Until now.
When Kit and Red set foot on French soil during the Normandy landings, they know they have to rely on each other. As they head for the battlefield, their aim is simple: save lives. But when they're called away on a top-secret mission to patch up a few men behind enemy lines, everything changes.
Alongside fellow nurses, Roxy and Gail, they're told to prepare for the worst, trading in their nurses' fatigues for civilian clothes and hiding medical supplies under their skirts. But it's a lie. Their real mission tasks them with the impossible – to infiltrate the Reich and steal something the Nazis desperately need to win their losing war.
In an ultimate test of courage and comradeship, each woman must decide what she is prepared to risk and what she has to live for.
In 1944, four American nurses disappeared for five days. No one knew what happened to them. Until now.
When Kit and Red set foot on French soil during the Normandy landings, they know they have to rely on each other. As they head for the battlefield, their aim is simple: save lives. But when they're called away on a top-secret mission to patch up a few men behind enemy lines, everything changes.
Alongside fellow nurses, Roxy and Gail, they're told to prepare for the worst, trading in their nurses' fatigues for civilian clothes and hiding medical supplies under their skirts. But it's a lie. Their real mission tasks them with the impossible – to infiltrate the Reich and steal something the Nazis desperately need to win their losing war.
In an ultimate test of courage and comradeship, each woman must decide what she is prepared to risk and what she has to live for.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 8, 2021
486 people are currently reading
1498 people want to read
About the author
Andie Newton
9 books249 followersAndie Newton is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction. Her work has been published in multiple languages and has topped e-book bestseller charts around the world. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Washington State University and a master’s in teaching. When she’s not writing gritty war stories about women, you can usually find her trail running in the desert and stopping to pet every dog that crosses her path. She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
June 13, 2022
WWII Historical fiction with a bit of a different outlook.
Four American nurses serving in France are tricked into taking on what turns out to be a covert assignment which they know nothing about until they find themselves in harm’s way and in a situation for which they are certainly not trained to handle. When they find themselves in mortal danger they have only each other to depend on.
The camaraderie between the women was evident from the beginning but after their ordeal it is heart wrenching.
The story is slow to start but it packs a punch that you don’t expect.
Something I didn’t know: The Normandy landing of 1945 included nurses attached to the 45th Field Hospital – nurses who did not expect to be in a war zone wearing battle fatigues.
Four American nurses serving in France are tricked into taking on what turns out to be a covert assignment which they know nothing about until they find themselves in harm’s way and in a situation for which they are certainly not trained to handle. When they find themselves in mortal danger they have only each other to depend on.
The camaraderie between the women was evident from the beginning but after their ordeal it is heart wrenching.
The story is slow to start but it packs a punch that you don’t expect.
Something I didn’t know: The Normandy landing of 1945 included nurses attached to the 45th Field Hospital – nurses who did not expect to be in a war zone wearing battle fatigues.
July 11, 2021
Kit and Kat formed a strong bond when they landed on Utah Beach during the Normandy landings and work together in a busy field hospital. They treat badly wounded American soldiers, not wearing a white nurse’s dress that Kit imagined, they wear practical men’s army fatigues and boots.
One day in 1944, four army nurses disappear for five days and it’s kept a secret. Kit, Kat, Roxy and Gail think they will be treating wounded soldiers behind enemy lines, they stock up with medical supplies and set off with Dr Burk. It’s actually a top secret mission and an extremely dangerous one. The assignment is to find a chest full of precious treasure, needed to save allied prisoners of war and before the German werewolves do. The women have to walk the whole way, disguised in dresses, they endure everything that’s thrown at them, and all the sets backs and establish a strong friendship.
The Girls From The Beach is an action packed story, I didn’t know that nurses landed on the beaches of Normandy during D-Day and came under fire. Kit, Kat, Roxy and Gail were four courageous, strong and brave women. By reading the book, it also makes you aware of the mental toll the war had on the nurses both during and after the war.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me.
One day in 1944, four army nurses disappear for five days and it’s kept a secret. Kit, Kat, Roxy and Gail think they will be treating wounded soldiers behind enemy lines, they stock up with medical supplies and set off with Dr Burk. It’s actually a top secret mission and an extremely dangerous one. The assignment is to find a chest full of precious treasure, needed to save allied prisoners of war and before the German werewolves do. The women have to walk the whole way, disguised in dresses, they endure everything that’s thrown at them, and all the sets backs and establish a strong friendship.
The Girls From The Beach is an action packed story, I didn’t know that nurses landed on the beaches of Normandy during D-Day and came under fire. Kit, Kat, Roxy and Gail were four courageous, strong and brave women. By reading the book, it also makes you aware of the mental toll the war had on the nurses both during and after the war.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me.
September 26, 2025
4.9 shiny stars rating from me ✨✨✨✨✨
I really loved this book!! It's full of action, many twists and turns and it kept me on the edge of my seat!!
It's about four nurses in 1944 who went missing for five days in Germany. They were really on a secret mission to retrieve " the giant" ( a lot of diamonds and rubys ) that the Nazis stole from people. Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail became best friends and went through a lot of danger in retrieving the giant. The friendships that are formed are so real and the women so believable, that they jump off the page and into your heart! It's really hard to put down!
I very highly recommend this one!
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫💫
I really loved this book!! It's full of action, many twists and turns and it kept me on the edge of my seat!!
It's about four nurses in 1944 who went missing for five days in Germany. They were really on a secret mission to retrieve " the giant" ( a lot of diamonds and rubys ) that the Nazis stole from people. Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail became best friends and went through a lot of danger in retrieving the giant. The friendships that are formed are so real and the women so believable, that they jump off the page and into your heart! It's really hard to put down!
I very highly recommend this one!
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫💫
July 13, 2021
Andie Newton is one of my favorite authors in the historical fiction genre. I have loved and adored her previous novels and I was more than excited to read this novel most especially because it was about nurses and their contribution to the war efforts risking their lives. This @nursebookie was definitely very very excited for this. After such a tough year working in the front lines during the pandemic, reading about these nurses really was very inspiring to me.
The Girls From the Beach blew me away - the story line was so thrilling and suspenseful, I literally could not put this book down. This enthralling read was packed full of wonderful stories and examples of bravery as the women took on such dangerous and top-secret mission. I love being immersed into the stories of Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail - a story of female friendships, and the endurance and sacrifice by brave women.
I did not know a lot about the nurses that landed in the beaches of Normandy during D-Day and this novel definitely highlighted and educated me on the heroism of WWII nurses. The research done for this novel was impeccable and really appreciated all the details that went to writing this beautiful and riveting novel.
I highly recommend this novel for a fast-paced read that highlighted the women and nurses whose commendable bravery made a difference in the war efforts. Historical Fiction readers cannot miss this novel and will devour this five star read.
The Girls From the Beach blew me away - the story line was so thrilling and suspenseful, I literally could not put this book down. This enthralling read was packed full of wonderful stories and examples of bravery as the women took on such dangerous and top-secret mission. I love being immersed into the stories of Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail - a story of female friendships, and the endurance and sacrifice by brave women.
I did not know a lot about the nurses that landed in the beaches of Normandy during D-Day and this novel definitely highlighted and educated me on the heroism of WWII nurses. The research done for this novel was impeccable and really appreciated all the details that went to writing this beautiful and riveting novel.
I highly recommend this novel for a fast-paced read that highlighted the women and nurses whose commendable bravery made a difference in the war efforts. Historical Fiction readers cannot miss this novel and will devour this five star read.
April 8, 2021
The Girls from the beach by Andie Newton is a great WWII-era historical fiction that has it all: mystery, history, intrigue, suspense, and strong female characters.
I really enjoyed Ms. Newton’s previous book, The Girl from Vichy, so I really wanted to read her newest book. It is definitely a great read.
There is a snippet of a dual-timeline introduced to help aid in telling the gripping story of a wonderful cast of characters in the latter years of WWII. I really enjoyed how Ms. Newton slowly drew out the fascinating stories of Roxy, Gail, Kit, and Red and their harrowing journeys and tasks that they went through, I learned a bit more about the Nursing Corps during WWII that were working in the line of fire, and I really enjoyed that addition. The reader thinks they know what this book will be about in the beginning, but it sure does present some welcoming surprises. I loved most of all the suspense, the action, and the amazing twists and turns that truly impressed me. There were stressful moments, heartbreaking moments, but also heartwarming as well. I really, really loved the ending.
This book was so enjoyable, truly unique, and I most definitely recommend this to anyone that loves a great historical fiction novel and wants to be entertained. It definitely sets itself apart from the rest.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Aria & Aries for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/8/21.
I really enjoyed Ms. Newton’s previous book, The Girl from Vichy, so I really wanted to read her newest book. It is definitely a great read.
There is a snippet of a dual-timeline introduced to help aid in telling the gripping story of a wonderful cast of characters in the latter years of WWII. I really enjoyed how Ms. Newton slowly drew out the fascinating stories of Roxy, Gail, Kit, and Red and their harrowing journeys and tasks that they went through, I learned a bit more about the Nursing Corps during WWII that were working in the line of fire, and I really enjoyed that addition. The reader thinks they know what this book will be about in the beginning, but it sure does present some welcoming surprises. I loved most of all the suspense, the action, and the amazing twists and turns that truly impressed me. There were stressful moments, heartbreaking moments, but also heartwarming as well. I really, really loved the ending.
This book was so enjoyable, truly unique, and I most definitely recommend this to anyone that loves a great historical fiction novel and wants to be entertained. It definitely sets itself apart from the rest.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Aria & Aries for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/8/21.
April 13, 2021
A wild ride of a book, laced with beautifully flawed characters, impeccable research, and a story that will make you cry with tears of joy and sorrow. A resounding five-star read!
May 11, 2021
This is a unique and incredibly imaginative story inspired by the nurses who worked on the front line in WW2. It is action packed and full of unexpected drama around every turn, I just had to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next! With the focus on four American girls, Newton’s dialogue flows very naturally and authentically. A face-paced adventure - readers who enjoyed her earlier books, will be sure to love this one!
July 13, 2021
Confronted with questions about her past, Evelyn Jones struggles with the PTSD she has hidden and relives the events she has kept secret for forty years in The Girls from the Beach by Andie Newton.
As she relives her time as a frontline battle nurse known as Kit, her experiences in World War II begin to unfold along with the camaraderie she shares with fellow nurses Red and Roxy. Just as a fourth nurse takes up residence in their tent, they are pulled into a mission that takes them behind enemy lines and deeper into danger than they have experienced before.
A well researched, well written, and absolutely fantastic work of historical fiction that feels so plausible, down to the reaction Evelyn’s confession of her ongoing battle sickness (PTSD) receives from a doctor not long after the war. The slow revelations and changes between first and third person points of view in this perfectly paced novel make for a compelling read that put me through a bit of an emotional wringer, with a repeated ratcheting up of tension and vivid depictions of the horrors experienced and witnessed by Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail.
Highly recommended, this is one of the best works of World War II fiction I have read.
This review refers to a temporary digital galley I voluntarily read via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
As she relives her time as a frontline battle nurse known as Kit, her experiences in World War II begin to unfold along with the camaraderie she shares with fellow nurses Red and Roxy. Just as a fourth nurse takes up residence in their tent, they are pulled into a mission that takes them behind enemy lines and deeper into danger than they have experienced before.
A well researched, well written, and absolutely fantastic work of historical fiction that feels so plausible, down to the reaction Evelyn’s confession of her ongoing battle sickness (PTSD) receives from a doctor not long after the war. The slow revelations and changes between first and third person points of view in this perfectly paced novel make for a compelling read that put me through a bit of an emotional wringer, with a repeated ratcheting up of tension and vivid depictions of the horrors experienced and witnessed by Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail.
Highly recommended, this is one of the best works of World War II fiction I have read.
This review refers to a temporary digital galley I voluntarily read via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
May 16, 2021
Wow! This book is incredible. It is gripping, heart-wrenching, and so much more. Whenever I picked up "The Girls from the Beach", I was whisked back in time, and went on such an emotional journey with this story.
This is the second book I have read by Andie Newton, and, she is truly one of my favorite authors. Her storytelling is riveting, and she brilliantly blends history and historical fiction. As the reader, I am immediately drawn into the story she is telling, and her characters all feel like such incredibly real people. Her character's fears, needs, wants, and desires are so clear that I feel like they are jumping off of the page right before my eyes. Furthermore, I can only begin to imagine the amount of research Ms. Newton must have done, as each and every aspect of this book felt so authentic, in both the past and contemporary time periods. She seamlessly blends her dual-timelines.
This book tells the story of four nurses during WWII. They save lives every single day, and endure, and see, so much horror. When they are sent on a secret mission to steal a chest from enemy territory, Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail must face more unimaginable horrors, where they continue to find the strength in themselves, as well as in each other to continue forward. What happens affects them not only in the past (as it is happening to them), but in the future as well. I do not want to spoil anything in this review, so, I will simply say, please read this book. There are parts of this book that are extremely difficult to read due to the atrocity of so much history that is displayed in it's pages. It also tells an incredible story of strength, determination, and friendship.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend this book. It had me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and many moments had me holding my breath. I can't wait to read what Ms. Newton writes next.
Thank you so much to to the author, Andie Newton, Aria, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book, it is incredible. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Please Note: The author does deal with some heavy topics in this book, including many horrors of war and PTSD. I believe she handles them with great care, and it is so important that these stories be told.
This is the second book I have read by Andie Newton, and, she is truly one of my favorite authors. Her storytelling is riveting, and she brilliantly blends history and historical fiction. As the reader, I am immediately drawn into the story she is telling, and her characters all feel like such incredibly real people. Her character's fears, needs, wants, and desires are so clear that I feel like they are jumping off of the page right before my eyes. Furthermore, I can only begin to imagine the amount of research Ms. Newton must have done, as each and every aspect of this book felt so authentic, in both the past and contemporary time periods. She seamlessly blends her dual-timelines.
This book tells the story of four nurses during WWII. They save lives every single day, and endure, and see, so much horror. When they are sent on a secret mission to steal a chest from enemy territory, Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail must face more unimaginable horrors, where they continue to find the strength in themselves, as well as in each other to continue forward. What happens affects them not only in the past (as it is happening to them), but in the future as well. I do not want to spoil anything in this review, so, I will simply say, please read this book. There are parts of this book that are extremely difficult to read due to the atrocity of so much history that is displayed in it's pages. It also tells an incredible story of strength, determination, and friendship.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend this book. It had me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and many moments had me holding my breath. I can't wait to read what Ms. Newton writes next.
Thank you so much to to the author, Andie Newton, Aria, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book, it is incredible. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Please Note: The author does deal with some heavy topics in this book, including many horrors of war and PTSD. I believe she handles them with great care, and it is so important that these stories be told.
April 27, 2021
4.5/5
First, let me thank NetGalley and Andie Newton for early access to this lovely story. As of late, I’ve been reading several books portraying the heroism of WWII nurses and this story both enlightened and educated me.
Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail joined the Army Nurses Corp to save lives. The sights, the sounds, the selflessness they encountered during five days in September profoundly effected them for years to come. Tricked into crossing into the enemy’s territory, they were assigned a mission of portraying “werewolves” to retrieve a war chest that was going to be used to fund the destruction of POW camps. The mission hit Kit particularly hard as her brother was said to be interned in one of those camps. Together the ladies faced evil straight on and summoned the strength and the courage to fulfill the mission. Their experiences are something that remained in the past, unable to tell their families after the war the whole truth about that week and why they disappeared....shedding light into the post traumatic stress that even the nurses returned home with.
This book is a great weekend read. It’s a bit fast paced though I imagine if I were in Kits shoes, the time would have crawled by. The characters were easy to like and feel empathy towards. I wish there was a bit more background to them but in wartime...do they even share the details of their lives at home with each other? Some do, some don’t. Most importantly, I appreciate the awareness brought to PTSD. According to the authors notes, and this is something I didn’t know, women returning from war were often accused as being liars when they shared PTSD symptoms with doctors. They found inconceivable that the nurses could suffer the same mental ailments as the soldiers. But their post war struggles were very real and I think it’s important that people know that because it could explain a lot when veterans remain silent about their experiences during WWII.
So definitely get a hold of this story when it becomes available. It keeps you on the edge of your seat.
First, let me thank NetGalley and Andie Newton for early access to this lovely story. As of late, I’ve been reading several books portraying the heroism of WWII nurses and this story both enlightened and educated me.
Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail joined the Army Nurses Corp to save lives. The sights, the sounds, the selflessness they encountered during five days in September profoundly effected them for years to come. Tricked into crossing into the enemy’s territory, they were assigned a mission of portraying “werewolves” to retrieve a war chest that was going to be used to fund the destruction of POW camps. The mission hit Kit particularly hard as her brother was said to be interned in one of those camps. Together the ladies faced evil straight on and summoned the strength and the courage to fulfill the mission. Their experiences are something that remained in the past, unable to tell their families after the war the whole truth about that week and why they disappeared....shedding light into the post traumatic stress that even the nurses returned home with.
This book is a great weekend read. It’s a bit fast paced though I imagine if I were in Kits shoes, the time would have crawled by. The characters were easy to like and feel empathy towards. I wish there was a bit more background to them but in wartime...do they even share the details of their lives at home with each other? Some do, some don’t. Most importantly, I appreciate the awareness brought to PTSD. According to the authors notes, and this is something I didn’t know, women returning from war were often accused as being liars when they shared PTSD symptoms with doctors. They found inconceivable that the nurses could suffer the same mental ailments as the soldiers. But their post war struggles were very real and I think it’s important that people know that because it could explain a lot when veterans remain silent about their experiences during WWII.
So definitely get a hold of this story when it becomes available. It keeps you on the edge of your seat.
April 16, 2021
Andie Newton has done it again! I really enjoyed her previous books, The Girl I Left Behind and The Girl From Vichy, so I was looking forward to this one and it does not disappoint. If anything, I think this is Andie Newton's best work so far.
The story is fast paced and exciting, and the characters are brilliantly drawn; I fell in love with all of them. The dual timeline was cleverly done, with just enough revealed along the way to stop it being confusing, but enough kept back for the finale, which made me cry (in a good way!).
Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and WWII stories.
The story is fast paced and exciting, and the characters are brilliantly drawn; I fell in love with all of them. The dual timeline was cleverly done, with just enough revealed along the way to stop it being confusing, but enough kept back for the finale, which made me cry (in a good way!).
Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and WWII stories.
May 18, 2021
Wow! This is the first book I've read by this author but it definitely is not my last. What an amazing read. I would like to thank Net Galley, the author and publisher for the Arc of this incredible story.
Post WWII novel which is a beautiful tribute to the nurses and the large part they played in the nation's history. The characters are genuine and likable with a depth to their friendship drawn in part from necessity. The writing is
vivid, action packed and believable. The research impeccable. I really appreciate the passion that went into the telling of this story.
5*
Post WWII novel which is a beautiful tribute to the nurses and the large part they played in the nation's history. The characters are genuine and likable with a depth to their friendship drawn in part from necessity. The writing is
vivid, action packed and believable. The research impeccable. I really appreciate the passion that went into the telling of this story.
5*
May 31, 2021
‘We’d heard stories about the nurses in tent seven. A secret mission, stolen money, and spies…’
“In 1944, four American nurses disappeared for five days. No one knew what happened to them. Until now.”
Such a wonderfully unique read; mystery, adventure and romance against a WW2 backdrop. I read a lot of this genre, so it’s nice to have a refreshing look at this time in history. I read don’t recall ever reading a book about the Army Nurse Corp during the Normandy landings arriving on Utah Beach and working in a field hospital. Sound boring? It’s any thing but boring when Andie Newton pens the tale! One day 4 American nurses are asked to go on a secret mission to patch up a few men behind enemy lines. The experience has such a profound effect on them that they never forget it.
You’ll love the non-stop action; hotwiring a car while Nazis are nipping at their heels, taking cover with bodies to foil the enemy, walking into a Nazi military parade whilst in possession of stolen Nazi property, and tiptoeing through a minefield! These are just some of the adventures the girls face. Newton has stuffed the story with adrenaline rushing action. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails. The girls looked evil in the eye, felt its wrath and managed to dodge it so many times. I was completely immersed in the story from the first page. What a ride!
You’ll also love the masterful characterization. Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail will instantly make their way into your heart and you will genuinely care about what happens to them. Out of necessity the girls have formed a tight friendship and are fiercely loyal to each other and you’ll feel it as you read. I laughed with them. I cried with them. I didn’t want the book to end. The antagonists are fabulous, too. I loved to hate The Butcher and Crazy Gilda. Andie Newton has made sure we won’t forget her book any time soon!
I don’t think I’ll ever listen to Clair de Lune again without thinking of this spectacular read. This is a wonderful homage to the real nurses who served and reminds readers of their bravery and heroism. Newton sheds light on those who returned and suffered PTSD and the lack of support given to those who gave so much.
Congratulations to Andie Newton for your impressive research, amazing plotting and spectacular writing style; this one’s a winner!
This book will be right up there with my favourite reads of 2021!
Publishes July 8, 2021.
I was gifted this superb advance copy by Andie Newton, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
“In 1944, four American nurses disappeared for five days. No one knew what happened to them. Until now.”
Such a wonderfully unique read; mystery, adventure and romance against a WW2 backdrop. I read a lot of this genre, so it’s nice to have a refreshing look at this time in history. I read don’t recall ever reading a book about the Army Nurse Corp during the Normandy landings arriving on Utah Beach and working in a field hospital. Sound boring? It’s any thing but boring when Andie Newton pens the tale! One day 4 American nurses are asked to go on a secret mission to patch up a few men behind enemy lines. The experience has such a profound effect on them that they never forget it.
You’ll love the non-stop action; hotwiring a car while Nazis are nipping at their heels, taking cover with bodies to foil the enemy, walking into a Nazi military parade whilst in possession of stolen Nazi property, and tiptoeing through a minefield! These are just some of the adventures the girls face. Newton has stuffed the story with adrenaline rushing action. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails. The girls looked evil in the eye, felt its wrath and managed to dodge it so many times. I was completely immersed in the story from the first page. What a ride!
You’ll also love the masterful characterization. Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail will instantly make their way into your heart and you will genuinely care about what happens to them. Out of necessity the girls have formed a tight friendship and are fiercely loyal to each other and you’ll feel it as you read. I laughed with them. I cried with them. I didn’t want the book to end. The antagonists are fabulous, too. I loved to hate The Butcher and Crazy Gilda. Andie Newton has made sure we won’t forget her book any time soon!
I don’t think I’ll ever listen to Clair de Lune again without thinking of this spectacular read. This is a wonderful homage to the real nurses who served and reminds readers of their bravery and heroism. Newton sheds light on those who returned and suffered PTSD and the lack of support given to those who gave so much.
Congratulations to Andie Newton for your impressive research, amazing plotting and spectacular writing style; this one’s a winner!
This book will be right up there with my favourite reads of 2021!
Publishes July 8, 2021.
I was gifted this superb advance copy by Andie Newton, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 18, 2021
Kit is a battlefield nurse in WWII France, dropped off on the Omaha beach during the D-Day landings. Along with her two best friends Red and Roxy, they’re there to save lives. And then a new girl is introduced to their group – Gail. At first things are a bit tense but when their Doctor asks them to go on a secret mission behind enemy lines to help save a few of their men, they have to pull together, for their country and their men.
But what they don’t expect is to find out what they’re really there for once they’ve arrived and it’s too late to turn back….. They’re expected to go undercover and get something from the Nazi’s – something that will save thousands of their men. They must pull together, and overcome more than. they could have imagined. But will they be successful? And will they all make it back alive?
I absolutely adored this book; it’s absolutely up there with one of my favourite reads of the year. It pulled me in from the first page and didn’t put me down until the last. I laughed, I cried, and I didn’t want it end. This is a gripping tale, full of danger and action, but more importantly friendship, camaraderie and the desire to do the right thing.
You will fall in love with the characters. An absolutely brilliant bunch of girls who see and go through so much. They are strong, independent and brave beyond belief. Their friendships are strong and will bring out so many emotions. Especially when you go through everything with them. They made me laugh, surprised me, and made me proud of them.
The setting is obviously quite heart wrenching. Set in the battle fields of WWII France and then behind enemy lines, it’s dangerous, dirty, unpredictable and will have you on the edge of your seat. It will also bring to life the reality of the conditions that people had to live in and the things they had to see, and it will make you feel like you’re there, with them. I could hear the bombs, the guns, the rain….everything.
The story is mainly told from the viewpoint of Kit as a young woman serving in 1944. However, the chapters also alternate to 1989 where the consequences of war becomes apparent. The story is told in a beautiful and warm way but with some truly heart wrenching moments. It will take you on a bumpy rollercoaster ride and fill you with happiness, dread, hope, despair and every emotion in between.
Honestly – I don’t have enough words to praise this book enough and I just hope this review does it justice. If you’re a fan of historical fiction or WWII fiction then this is an absolute must read. I will be getting this when it’s available in paperback and keeping on my shelves forever. A moving, gripping and fantastic story. Highly recommended by me. I would absolutely love to see this on screen one day so will keep my fingers well and truly crossed.
But what they don’t expect is to find out what they’re really there for once they’ve arrived and it’s too late to turn back….. They’re expected to go undercover and get something from the Nazi’s – something that will save thousands of their men. They must pull together, and overcome more than. they could have imagined. But will they be successful? And will they all make it back alive?
I absolutely adored this book; it’s absolutely up there with one of my favourite reads of the year. It pulled me in from the first page and didn’t put me down until the last. I laughed, I cried, and I didn’t want it end. This is a gripping tale, full of danger and action, but more importantly friendship, camaraderie and the desire to do the right thing.
You will fall in love with the characters. An absolutely brilliant bunch of girls who see and go through so much. They are strong, independent and brave beyond belief. Their friendships are strong and will bring out so many emotions. Especially when you go through everything with them. They made me laugh, surprised me, and made me proud of them.
The setting is obviously quite heart wrenching. Set in the battle fields of WWII France and then behind enemy lines, it’s dangerous, dirty, unpredictable and will have you on the edge of your seat. It will also bring to life the reality of the conditions that people had to live in and the things they had to see, and it will make you feel like you’re there, with them. I could hear the bombs, the guns, the rain….everything.
The story is mainly told from the viewpoint of Kit as a young woman serving in 1944. However, the chapters also alternate to 1989 where the consequences of war becomes apparent. The story is told in a beautiful and warm way but with some truly heart wrenching moments. It will take you on a bumpy rollercoaster ride and fill you with happiness, dread, hope, despair and every emotion in between.
Honestly – I don’t have enough words to praise this book enough and I just hope this review does it justice. If you’re a fan of historical fiction or WWII fiction then this is an absolute must read. I will be getting this when it’s available in paperback and keeping on my shelves forever. A moving, gripping and fantastic story. Highly recommended by me. I would absolutely love to see this on screen one day so will keep my fingers well and truly crossed.
July 6, 2021
I received this as an ARC from Netgalley. I have read a lot of WWII historical fiction and non-fiction, and this is the first story I read about battle nurses. Andie Newton did a beautiful job of bringing Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail to life. The vivid imagery throughout the book, made me feel like I was on the beach of D-Day, in the clinic area, and all other parts these ladies travel to.. While the story itself is a work of fiction, the struggles these nurses dealt with during the war and PTSD after are very real.
June 29, 2021
This is a fast-paced, dynamic and compelling read. The characters are strongly drawn and utterly captivated me. The themes of friendship, heroism and sacrifice are effectively woven throughout the story and I could not put it down. Historical fiction at its best.
April 27, 2021
Honestly, this started out strong. I was really excited to read about battle nurses, their comradery and grit. However, the farther I got into it, the more unlikely the plot seemed to be. I get it, it's a work of fiction. However, this is a work of historical fiction, there is supposed to be an element of history or at least some basis of facts. Four nurses who secretly sneak into Nazi Germany to steal the Nazi treasure chest should have been my first clue that this was going to be a bit far fetched. As can be expected, trials and tribulations befall our heroines along the way. Also the unveiling at the end was in no way surprising.
I am VERY tired of historical fiction authors using flashbacks! I am so tired of going back and forth in time. It's exhausting. Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for review.
I am VERY tired of historical fiction authors using flashbacks! I am so tired of going back and forth in time. It's exhausting. Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for review.
June 10, 2021
This book was such a poignant, heartwarming read that would make a great movie. Its my first Andie Newton book but certainly won't be my last.
Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail are 4 American nurses working on the front line in battle hospitals during WW2. They are sent, with their Doctor, behind enemy lines to carry out a secret mission. Interspersed within the chapters are a few chapters in present time dedicated to Evelyn who is suffering from PTSD from what she witnessed and experienced. When a book makes me smile and cry I know I've read something that will stay with me
Many thanks to Andie for writing this masterpiece, Netgalley and publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail are 4 American nurses working on the front line in battle hospitals during WW2. They are sent, with their Doctor, behind enemy lines to carry out a secret mission. Interspersed within the chapters are a few chapters in present time dedicated to Evelyn who is suffering from PTSD from what she witnessed and experienced. When a book makes me smile and cry I know I've read something that will stay with me
Many thanks to Andie for writing this masterpiece, Netgalley and publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
May 1, 2021
What a story! 'The Girls from the Beach' took me on a roller coaster ride of mystery and suspense. I blame Andie Newton for my lack of sleep over the past few days. Her writing is taut and vivid, her dialogue intense. I was completely absorbed in the story of Red, Roxy, Kit and Gail. The Girls from the Beach is a testimony to courage, integrity and female friendship. And that ending – wow!
July 10, 2021
This is another great WWII historical fiction novel you need to add to your list! I have not read many with women from the US who were over there helping to fight in the front line. This story follows four women nurses who were on the front lines of battle, and also has a dual storyline of one of the women later in life.
They were in the midst of the seeing it all – and working fourteen plus hour shifts when needed. Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail are asked to go on a mission. This is a life or death mission and there will be no turning back. But there is a need for them to do this, they need to go and help nurse back some of our own men that were hurt. They need to go into enemy lines to complete this, and if all goes well, they would be back later that night with no one the wiser that they had left camp.
They get taken by vehicle and dropped off in the woods, where they have to cross a river and a few miles in they will find a town and need to find the correct building within the square. That is where the men will be for them to give aid. But thing do not go as planned, and quickly the women are on their own in carrying out the mission. Knowing their lives are on the line, they find the correct building. But upon getting there, they are then told the real reason they were requested, the real mission that still lies ahead, that only women could accomplish.
Evelyn gets an unexpected visitor at her door. She has done all she can to put that past behind her, and tries to live everyday not remembering the horrors of war. A familiar face is persistent and wanting to speak to her, and then he hands her a photo and wants to know what happened when they disappeared for five days, and no one had any idea what happened or where they went. It is still a mystery today. What really happened during that mission, and what exactly did they have to do?
Thank you to the author and Aria for the free ebook! I think I might have to buy this one when it releases to add to my WWII historical fiction collection. It was very interesting to read about what these women did, and how brave they were to risk their own lives to save others.
They were in the midst of the seeing it all – and working fourteen plus hour shifts when needed. Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail are asked to go on a mission. This is a life or death mission and there will be no turning back. But there is a need for them to do this, they need to go and help nurse back some of our own men that were hurt. They need to go into enemy lines to complete this, and if all goes well, they would be back later that night with no one the wiser that they had left camp.
They get taken by vehicle and dropped off in the woods, where they have to cross a river and a few miles in they will find a town and need to find the correct building within the square. That is where the men will be for them to give aid. But thing do not go as planned, and quickly the women are on their own in carrying out the mission. Knowing their lives are on the line, they find the correct building. But upon getting there, they are then told the real reason they were requested, the real mission that still lies ahead, that only women could accomplish.
Evelyn gets an unexpected visitor at her door. She has done all she can to put that past behind her, and tries to live everyday not remembering the horrors of war. A familiar face is persistent and wanting to speak to her, and then he hands her a photo and wants to know what happened when they disappeared for five days, and no one had any idea what happened or where they went. It is still a mystery today. What really happened during that mission, and what exactly did they have to do?
Thank you to the author and Aria for the free ebook! I think I might have to buy this one when it releases to add to my WWII historical fiction collection. It was very interesting to read about what these women did, and how brave they were to risk their own lives to save others.
July 23, 2021
Andie Newton is back again with another exciting, fascinating historical featuring some of the bravest women I've ever read about!
The book kicks off in 1989 with a reporter on the trail of a "story of a lifetime". His boss has asked him to write a piece on nurses in WWII he remembered a box that his mother had sent to him containing information and photos of when she was a nurse at a field hospital. He finds a diary that mentions the mysterious incident involving a group of nurses who went missing for five days, and that a woman named Kit may know what happened.
The book alternates between that time and back in 1944 where Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail are nurses on the front line. One day they are asked to go on a secret mission to help tend to wounded soldiers behind the enemy lines, and despite the danger in that they agree, but they later find out what their true mission is, and it's even more complicated than they ever expected.
This book was a nail-biter for sure! Andie's writing is so good - she literally drops you into the scene like you are there, especially the scenes where the women are on the front lines, with explosions and death all around. I could see it playing in front of me like a movie!
This is a wonderfully unique historical that even readers who are "WWII'd out" can appreciate. It's a tale of the bravery of women, friendship, and fighting for your country. I highly enjoyed it and definitely recommend you checking out!
The book kicks off in 1989 with a reporter on the trail of a "story of a lifetime". His boss has asked him to write a piece on nurses in WWII he remembered a box that his mother had sent to him containing information and photos of when she was a nurse at a field hospital. He finds a diary that mentions the mysterious incident involving a group of nurses who went missing for five days, and that a woman named Kit may know what happened.
The book alternates between that time and back in 1944 where Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail are nurses on the front line. One day they are asked to go on a secret mission to help tend to wounded soldiers behind the enemy lines, and despite the danger in that they agree, but they later find out what their true mission is, and it's even more complicated than they ever expected.
This book was a nail-biter for sure! Andie's writing is so good - she literally drops you into the scene like you are there, especially the scenes where the women are on the front lines, with explosions and death all around. I could see it playing in front of me like a movie!
This is a wonderfully unique historical that even readers who are "WWII'd out" can appreciate. It's a tale of the bravery of women, friendship, and fighting for your country. I highly enjoyed it and definitely recommend you checking out!
July 23, 2021
Well, I have to say, The Girls from the Beach is certainly a very intense historical fiction!
This is written in two timelines…….war torn 1944 France to 1989. The author draws you into the drama, horrors and chaos that the nurses were drawn into. What true heroines they were. Not only asked to preform their nursing duties. They are also tasked with going under cover to discover something vital to the war effort.
The ending was bit unusual for me. I’m actually not quite sure how I feel about it. Still thinking about it.
I highly recommend reading this book. It shows the what the nurses on the battlefield went through.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is written in two timelines…….war torn 1944 France to 1989. The author draws you into the drama, horrors and chaos that the nurses were drawn into. What true heroines they were. Not only asked to preform their nursing duties. They are also tasked with going under cover to discover something vital to the war effort.
The ending was bit unusual for me. I’m actually not quite sure how I feel about it. Still thinking about it.
I highly recommend reading this book. It shows the what the nurses on the battlefield went through.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 3, 2021
Four young women from disparate backgrounds enlist as nurses during WWII. Right away, they’re forced to discard dreams of tapping down hospital halls like angels in white dresses and shoes with blue capes as wings, for the grisly reality of battlefield nurses in blood- and mud-soaked fatigues.
And more changes await. First, head nurse Red and feisty Kit are sent on a secret assignment. They obtain information that leads to an even bigger mission—one behind enemy lines. Red and Kit, along with tent-mates Roxy and Gail, think they are going to help an injured surveillance convoy, but it’s much more than that. Inspired by a historically accurate five-day pause in the fighting the German army took to refuel, author Andie Newton has imagined how U.S. forces could have taken advantage of this break to attempt a dangerous operation could turn the tide in the war...and save American POWs, including Kit’s brother.
This is Newton’s first story about American women in WWII, and it struck me as very American. The characters are sassy and sometimes over-confident, characteristics that are what make the completion of their mission possible. Each character is so well-developed that you feel like you know her. The fast-paced, harrowing plot includes suspense, terror, duty, and even love. The frame story puts the women’s accomplishment into context and illustrates how life-long trauma can be the price one pays for superhuman courageous acts.
Equally riveting is the tale of the evolving relationships between the women, especially Kit and Red, who are thrown together during a harrowing landing in France, slogging onto Utah Beach under gunfire. Their respect for one another grows as they survive ever-increasing stakes. What do you call someone who saves your life—more than once—taking risks that are nothing short of heroic? It’s a bond stronger than friendship or family. I was in tears when Red prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to save Kit. And again at the book’s surprising and emotional ending.
The next time you see an elderly woman holding up the line at the supermarket, consider that she might have spent her speedier years standing in the mud, stitching up soldiers faster than you can imagine, just like The Girls from the Beach.
And more changes await. First, head nurse Red and feisty Kit are sent on a secret assignment. They obtain information that leads to an even bigger mission—one behind enemy lines. Red and Kit, along with tent-mates Roxy and Gail, think they are going to help an injured surveillance convoy, but it’s much more than that. Inspired by a historically accurate five-day pause in the fighting the German army took to refuel, author Andie Newton has imagined how U.S. forces could have taken advantage of this break to attempt a dangerous operation could turn the tide in the war...and save American POWs, including Kit’s brother.
This is Newton’s first story about American women in WWII, and it struck me as very American. The characters are sassy and sometimes over-confident, characteristics that are what make the completion of their mission possible. Each character is so well-developed that you feel like you know her. The fast-paced, harrowing plot includes suspense, terror, duty, and even love. The frame story puts the women’s accomplishment into context and illustrates how life-long trauma can be the price one pays for superhuman courageous acts.
Equally riveting is the tale of the evolving relationships between the women, especially Kit and Red, who are thrown together during a harrowing landing in France, slogging onto Utah Beach under gunfire. Their respect for one another grows as they survive ever-increasing stakes. What do you call someone who saves your life—more than once—taking risks that are nothing short of heroic? It’s a bond stronger than friendship or family. I was in tears when Red prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to save Kit. And again at the book’s surprising and emotional ending.
The next time you see an elderly woman holding up the line at the supermarket, consider that she might have spent her speedier years standing in the mud, stitching up soldiers faster than you can imagine, just like The Girls from the Beach.
May 19, 2021
Some books propel me into the thick of things immediately. I sure felt it here! It grabbed my heart and didn't let go the entire time. Dual timelines are fabulous if done well and are done superbly here. The first is 1944 France in the middle of WWII when four American nurses with completely different personalities are working with all they have on the front line and must often improvise and make tough decisions on the spot. Rules are broken often under war circumstances. But in war it is all about survival.
We catch more than just glimpses into the war zone as Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail swallow back mental and physical bile and perform amazing feats on their patients. The girls are fiercely loyal to each other and really show their mettle under duress, time and time again. The characters are believably flawed and the story itself seemed very realistic to me. What they went through!
The second timeline is forty years later as unbearable memories are brought to the surface by a journalist. For some talking about it understandably brings incredible fear. PTSD is depicted extremely well here. It is impossible to imagine the anguish and horror people suffered. But learning about it very important.
I always pay close attention to the author's inspiration for stories if applicable and was happy to read Andie Newton's take on inspirations including the Nazi war chest aspect. Unique storylines like this are breathtaking and well worth reading. I like that the horrors of war aren't glossed over and it is obvious the author's soul is in this book. So, I recommend it to ALL General Fiction, Historical Fiction and Women's Fiction readers.
My sincere thank you to Aries & Area and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this wonderful, wonderful book! I enjoyed it thoroughly.
We catch more than just glimpses into the war zone as Kit, Red, Roxy and Gail swallow back mental and physical bile and perform amazing feats on their patients. The girls are fiercely loyal to each other and really show their mettle under duress, time and time again. The characters are believably flawed and the story itself seemed very realistic to me. What they went through!
The second timeline is forty years later as unbearable memories are brought to the surface by a journalist. For some talking about it understandably brings incredible fear. PTSD is depicted extremely well here. It is impossible to imagine the anguish and horror people suffered. But learning about it very important.
I always pay close attention to the author's inspiration for stories if applicable and was happy to read Andie Newton's take on inspirations including the Nazi war chest aspect. Unique storylines like this are breathtaking and well worth reading. I like that the horrors of war aren't glossed over and it is obvious the author's soul is in this book. So, I recommend it to ALL General Fiction, Historical Fiction and Women's Fiction readers.
My sincere thank you to Aries & Area and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this wonderful, wonderful book! I enjoyed it thoroughly.
June 18, 2021
The Girls on the Beach
Andie Newton
Oh, I absolutely adored this one. I’m a sucker for anything WW2 and Newton certainly led me along a path to a situation of which I had no previous knowledge. Of course, I’ve always been aware of the allied landings, but I suppose never really taken into consideration the nurses who were taken and left on the beach to first of all survive and then to do their utmost to help the wounded soldiers fighting the battles. From the very start I was hooked, following not only the everyday hard work that the nurses endured, but also the intrigue surrounding Kit, Kit, Roxy, Red and Gail and their involvement in a secret – and obviously dangerous – mission. Beautifully and very cleverly written, with what must have been careful and intense research, we are taken into a past that probably none of us had thought much about before, as well as reading of the heart-stopping adventure on which the four nurses embark. And onto Kit’s present life where she wants to keeps her secrets just that.
This is certainly one to read for 2021. 5 stars – couldn’t give it any less!
I was gifted a copy from the publisher
Andie Newton
Oh, I absolutely adored this one. I’m a sucker for anything WW2 and Newton certainly led me along a path to a situation of which I had no previous knowledge. Of course, I’ve always been aware of the allied landings, but I suppose never really taken into consideration the nurses who were taken and left on the beach to first of all survive and then to do their utmost to help the wounded soldiers fighting the battles. From the very start I was hooked, following not only the everyday hard work that the nurses endured, but also the intrigue surrounding Kit, Kit, Roxy, Red and Gail and their involvement in a secret – and obviously dangerous – mission. Beautifully and very cleverly written, with what must have been careful and intense research, we are taken into a past that probably none of us had thought much about before, as well as reading of the heart-stopping adventure on which the four nurses embark. And onto Kit’s present life where she wants to keeps her secrets just that.
This is certainly one to read for 2021. 5 stars – couldn’t give it any less!
I was gifted a copy from the publisher
June 6, 2021
Fans of historical fiction, you can’t miss this action-packed page turner!
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed Andie Newton’s first two books, The Girl I Left Behind and The Girl From Vichy and was really excited to get an early copy of The Girls From The Beach. I can tell you it lived up to my expectations and more and I’ve devoured in a weekend the emotional and dramatic journey of Gail, Roxy, Red and Kit, four WWII American nurses. The characters leap off the page, the writing is immersive, and the action is nonstop in this gripping story of friendship, resilience, and determination. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed Andie Newton’s first two books, The Girl I Left Behind and The Girl From Vichy and was really excited to get an early copy of The Girls From The Beach. I can tell you it lived up to my expectations and more and I’ve devoured in a weekend the emotional and dramatic journey of Gail, Roxy, Red and Kit, four WWII American nurses. The characters leap off the page, the writing is immersive, and the action is nonstop in this gripping story of friendship, resilience, and determination. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
September 13, 2021
I have read all of Andie Newton’s books so far and not once have I been disappointed! She is an amazingly talented writer and her historical research and detail is always spot on. Plus she has a wonderful prose and creates interesting characters. So when this one came up for review there was zero question if I would read it or not!
Not only is the cover to DIE for but I loved the sound of this plot…..American nurses tasked with a secret mission go missing and infiltrate the Nazi regime. It couldn’t sound more compelling if it tried! Spies and Nazis are a hot ticket right now. There are so many books about women spies infiltrating or working against the Nazis during WWII right now but Andie Newton is at the tip of that sword for me.
I sat down to read this one and expected to read it in a couple of days—wrong, I read it in like a day. It was so great and I loved the larger narrative and characters so much but it’s the uniqueness of the story that really shines. This book isn’t due out in the US until October so my review is really early, but when it becomes available in the US you will want to snag yourself a copy because it’s a wonderful novel!
As I mentioned, I read this one super fast. It has a lot of action and intrigue to keep readers captivated and invested in the story. It had such great pacing and every time I would come to the end of a chapter I was like ‘oh no I can’t stop there just one more’. Newton has a knack for leaving off at just the right moment where readers won’t want to stop. I don’t want to give away too much about the plot and story but let’s just say it’s so good. I loved the bond between the nurses and how they had to work together on their secret mission. The secret mission is an excellent addition to the story and really kept things interesting and exciting.
I especially loved how the nursing profession was explored and highlighted in this book. Like most readers and the characters in this book, I always think of battle field nurses as wearing their white dresses and working on patients as needed. But in reality the life of a battlefield nurse is far from that. I did my master’s thesis on battlefield nurses in the Civil War so I should know better but whenever I read historical fiction with nurses, I fall into the same pitfalls as many readers and have this idyllic image of them. In this book Newton does a fantastic job creating realistic nurses and their conditions without going overboard to shatter the vision but enough to remind readers and the characters that nursing is often a dirty and messy business.
The four main characters Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail were very well done and I think readers will find things to sympathize with and flaws that make them real and human. I loved their story and I had a hard time picking which one was my favorite. In the end I think I liked Kit the best but all of the women were well draw and interesting. Although my one criticism would be to give a bit more of their back story. I loved their characters so much that I wanted to know more about their lives etc.
Newton’s historical research is top shelf and you cannot go wrong with any of her books. I love them all for different reasons and haven’t been disappointed yet. This book is one that you will want on your TBR for fall immediately! It’s so good and you are doing yourself a disservice by not reading this one. If you have read Newton’s other books, you will know how special each of her books are. Another 5 star from me!
See my full review here
Not only is the cover to DIE for but I loved the sound of this plot…..American nurses tasked with a secret mission go missing and infiltrate the Nazi regime. It couldn’t sound more compelling if it tried! Spies and Nazis are a hot ticket right now. There are so many books about women spies infiltrating or working against the Nazis during WWII right now but Andie Newton is at the tip of that sword for me.
I sat down to read this one and expected to read it in a couple of days—wrong, I read it in like a day. It was so great and I loved the larger narrative and characters so much but it’s the uniqueness of the story that really shines. This book isn’t due out in the US until October so my review is really early, but when it becomes available in the US you will want to snag yourself a copy because it’s a wonderful novel!
As I mentioned, I read this one super fast. It has a lot of action and intrigue to keep readers captivated and invested in the story. It had such great pacing and every time I would come to the end of a chapter I was like ‘oh no I can’t stop there just one more’. Newton has a knack for leaving off at just the right moment where readers won’t want to stop. I don’t want to give away too much about the plot and story but let’s just say it’s so good. I loved the bond between the nurses and how they had to work together on their secret mission. The secret mission is an excellent addition to the story and really kept things interesting and exciting.
I especially loved how the nursing profession was explored and highlighted in this book. Like most readers and the characters in this book, I always think of battle field nurses as wearing their white dresses and working on patients as needed. But in reality the life of a battlefield nurse is far from that. I did my master’s thesis on battlefield nurses in the Civil War so I should know better but whenever I read historical fiction with nurses, I fall into the same pitfalls as many readers and have this idyllic image of them. In this book Newton does a fantastic job creating realistic nurses and their conditions without going overboard to shatter the vision but enough to remind readers and the characters that nursing is often a dirty and messy business.
The four main characters Kit, Red, Roxy, and Gail were very well done and I think readers will find things to sympathize with and flaws that make them real and human. I loved their story and I had a hard time picking which one was my favorite. In the end I think I liked Kit the best but all of the women were well draw and interesting. Although my one criticism would be to give a bit more of their back story. I loved their characters so much that I wanted to know more about their lives etc.
Newton’s historical research is top shelf and you cannot go wrong with any of her books. I love them all for different reasons and haven’t been disappointed yet. This book is one that you will want on your TBR for fall immediately! It’s so good and you are doing yourself a disservice by not reading this one. If you have read Newton’s other books, you will know how special each of her books are. Another 5 star from me!
See my full review here
July 19, 2021
I have loved every book by Andie Newton so far and The Girls From The Beach is quite possibly my favourite. Four American nurses in France take on the ultimate challenge beyond enemy lines and show immense bravery in doing so. The danger and horrors faced on their journey and the depth of love and friendship between Kit and her fellow nurses as they come up against them are intertwined perfectly to create a breathtaking tale of wartime heroism that’s packed with action and that will literally leave you in tears.
July 19, 2022
I didn't realize that women landed on the beaches of Normandy, but it makes sense. I enjoy historical fiction that makes me want to do further research on a subject, and this one certainly did.
There are many stories of the comeraderie developed among men in battle, but this is a first for me focusing on women. This book got me emotionally involved with the characters, which is what a really good book does. I highly recommend it.
There are many stories of the comeraderie developed among men in battle, but this is a first for me focusing on women. This book got me emotionally involved with the characters, which is what a really good book does. I highly recommend it.
July 10, 2022
"It wasn’t every day a reporter was hand-delivered the story of a lifetime—the kind that made you wonder, the kind that made the little hairs on the back of your neck stand up—the kind that made you question what you knew about the war and its heroine nurses."
There's so much story, so much emotion packed into this story, that you won't believe you're reading fiction. Having served in the military, and having lived in Germany for a few years when I was young, it was all too easy to see the scenes unfold. To remember how the air smells different than it does in America. To remember touring some of the battlefields and prisoner camps that are still there as reminders to us all. These amazing women, the battle nurses who not only served in the middle of a war zone, but went home only to be told that "only men who served in the war have PTSD", they deserve so much more accolade than we've ever given them.
Easily said, this is one of the best books I've ever read.
There's so much story, so much emotion packed into this story, that you won't believe you're reading fiction. Having served in the military, and having lived in Germany for a few years when I was young, it was all too easy to see the scenes unfold. To remember how the air smells different than it does in America. To remember touring some of the battlefields and prisoner camps that are still there as reminders to us all. These amazing women, the battle nurses who not only served in the middle of a war zone, but went home only to be told that "only men who served in the war have PTSD", they deserve so much more accolade than we've ever given them.
Easily said, this is one of the best books I've ever read.
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