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The War Pianist
Pianist: NOUN. Informal. A person who operates or controls a radio transmitter – often in code.
July, 1940
Blitz-ridden London: Marnie Fern’s life is torn apart when her grandfather is killed in an air raid. But once she discovers that he’d been working undercover as a radio operative – or Pianist – for the Dutch resistance, Marnie knows she must complete his mission – no matter the cost…
Nazi-occupied Amsterdam: At the other end of the wireless, fellow pianist Corrie Bakker is caught in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse as she desperately tries to keep her loved ones out of the line of fire – even if it means sacrificing herself…
Bound together by the invisible wires of their radios, the two women lead parallel lives in their home cities, as both are betrayed by those they trust the most. But when the Nazis close in on one of them, only the other can save her…
Two cities. Two spies. But which woman survives?
July, 1940
Blitz-ridden London: Marnie Fern’s life is torn apart when her grandfather is killed in an air raid. But once she discovers that he’d been working undercover as a radio operative – or Pianist – for the Dutch resistance, Marnie knows she must complete his mission – no matter the cost…
Nazi-occupied Amsterdam: At the other end of the wireless, fellow pianist Corrie Bakker is caught in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse as she desperately tries to keep her loved ones out of the line of fire – even if it means sacrificing herself…
Bound together by the invisible wires of their radios, the two women lead parallel lives in their home cities, as both are betrayed by those they trust the most. But when the Nazis close in on one of them, only the other can save her…
Two cities. Two spies. But which woman survives?
384 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2023
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March 24, 2023
The War Pianist was the third book that I have read by Mandy Robotham. Little had I realized before reading The War Pianist that a pianist during World War II was “a person who operates or controls a radio transmitter- often in code”. I had never heard that title used for radio transmitters before reading this book. The War Pianist was a riveting book that drew me in immediately. It was well paced and had its share of twists and turns. Like in most books written by Mandy Robotham, there were strong female protagonists. The War Pianist took place in both London during the Blitz and in Nazi occupied Amsterdam. It was well plotted and the characters were quite convincing.
Marnie Fern lived and worked in London as the Blitz started to become a reality. Her parents had evacuated their London home and moved to Scotland. Marnie was employed by the British Broadcasting Company or the BBC. Her beloved grandfather, Gilbert Coop, remained in London despite the dangers. Marnie had always had a very close relationship with her grandfather. She felt closer to her grandfather than to her own parents. Gilbert Coop was a very proficient tailor with an excellent reputation. He was also a “pianist” or radio transmitter working with the Dutch resistance during World War II. Marnie had never known or suspected anything about this secret her grandfather had kept from her.
After so many months of quiet, Marnie surprisingly found herself seeking shelter as the first air raid siren went off warning the people of London of an attack. Marnie found shelter underground. After the all clear signal was sounded, Marnie went to check on her grandfather and make sure he was alright. To her complete devastation, the bombs had exploded on her grandfather’s home and killed him. Marnie had never experienced such sorrow before in her whole life. Her grandfather was everything to her. The next day, Marnie went to collect some of her grandfather’s possessions. It was then that Marnie discovered a radio transmitter. She was so puzzled over it. What was her grandfather doing with a radio transmitter? The next thing Marnie knew was that she was being approached by a handsome man close to her age that she had never met before. His name was Willem, and he explained to Marnie that he was her grandfather’s contact in London. It was then that Marnie learned what her grandfather had been doing. Marnie’s grandfather had been working with the Dutch resistance. Willem shared Marnie’s grief over the loss of her grandfather. He had approached Marnie to express his sympathy but also to ask her to take over the important role her grandfather had played in helping the Dutch resistance. Marnie’s grandfather had taught her Morse Code as a child. To honor her grandfather and continue his work for the Dutch resistance, Marnie agreed.
Back in Amsterdam, another radio operator known as Daisy had sent a message to her contact named Gatsby but to no avail. Gatsby, code name for Marnie’s grandfather, was not answering. Daisy suspected the worst and she was right. Daisy was saddened that something must have happened to Gatsby. After Marnie received her training, she and Daisy exchanged coded messages frequently. Sometimes, Marnie found herself set up in a basement and sometimes in an attic. It was important to move locations often so not to be discovered. She knew she had to be fast when transmitting messages. Her fingers had to fly across the keys in record time so no one could trace her coded messages or intercept them. Marnie became quite proficient at it and looked forward to receiving and sending messages through Daisy.
Marnie’s contact with Willem was one she felt herself looking forward to more and more. She was attracted to Willem and longed to find out more about him. The longer Marnie worked as a pianist to help the Dutch resistance, the more Marnie started to become suspicious of everyone about her. She wasn’t sure who she could trust. Willem had warned her to trust no one. There was talk of Fifth Columns that had infiltrated London. Then Daisy sent Marnie a message for Willem. Marnie did not know how to find him. Willem had always come to her. With the help of Willem’s good friend, Marnie discovered that Willem had returned to Amsterdam. Why the sudden departure? What had Willem learned about to make him act so impulsively? Marnie had made up her mind that she had to find Willem. She would do whatever she needed to do even if it meant that she and Willem’s friend would have to leave London and go to Amsterdam. Marnie had to find out why Willem had returned to Amsterdam so suddenly. Would Marnie be able to find him and deliver the message she had received for him? What role would Marnie play in Amsterdam? Could she be of help to the resistance cell Willem was part of?
I really enjoyed reading The War Pianist by Mandy Robotham. It portrayed the actions of the Dutch citizens who formed resistance cells and rose up against the Nazis. The Dutch resistance could not fight the Nazis alone, though. Willing volunteers like Marnie and her grandfather until he was unmercifully killed by German bombs and those in Amsterdam, teamed together, worked tirelessly and at times put their lives in danger, all to help their countries win the war against the Nazis. The War Pianist was about courage, family, loss, betrayal, espionage, bravery, strength, resolve and love. It was well written and researched. Mandy Robotham’s talent as a storyteller was masterful. I really enjoyed reading The War Pianist and recommend it highly.
Thank you to Avon Books for allowing me to read The War Pianist by Mandy Robotham through Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Marnie Fern lived and worked in London as the Blitz started to become a reality. Her parents had evacuated their London home and moved to Scotland. Marnie was employed by the British Broadcasting Company or the BBC. Her beloved grandfather, Gilbert Coop, remained in London despite the dangers. Marnie had always had a very close relationship with her grandfather. She felt closer to her grandfather than to her own parents. Gilbert Coop was a very proficient tailor with an excellent reputation. He was also a “pianist” or radio transmitter working with the Dutch resistance during World War II. Marnie had never known or suspected anything about this secret her grandfather had kept from her.
After so many months of quiet, Marnie surprisingly found herself seeking shelter as the first air raid siren went off warning the people of London of an attack. Marnie found shelter underground. After the all clear signal was sounded, Marnie went to check on her grandfather and make sure he was alright. To her complete devastation, the bombs had exploded on her grandfather’s home and killed him. Marnie had never experienced such sorrow before in her whole life. Her grandfather was everything to her. The next day, Marnie went to collect some of her grandfather’s possessions. It was then that Marnie discovered a radio transmitter. She was so puzzled over it. What was her grandfather doing with a radio transmitter? The next thing Marnie knew was that she was being approached by a handsome man close to her age that she had never met before. His name was Willem, and he explained to Marnie that he was her grandfather’s contact in London. It was then that Marnie learned what her grandfather had been doing. Marnie’s grandfather had been working with the Dutch resistance. Willem shared Marnie’s grief over the loss of her grandfather. He had approached Marnie to express his sympathy but also to ask her to take over the important role her grandfather had played in helping the Dutch resistance. Marnie’s grandfather had taught her Morse Code as a child. To honor her grandfather and continue his work for the Dutch resistance, Marnie agreed.
Back in Amsterdam, another radio operator known as Daisy had sent a message to her contact named Gatsby but to no avail. Gatsby, code name for Marnie’s grandfather, was not answering. Daisy suspected the worst and she was right. Daisy was saddened that something must have happened to Gatsby. After Marnie received her training, she and Daisy exchanged coded messages frequently. Sometimes, Marnie found herself set up in a basement and sometimes in an attic. It was important to move locations often so not to be discovered. She knew she had to be fast when transmitting messages. Her fingers had to fly across the keys in record time so no one could trace her coded messages or intercept them. Marnie became quite proficient at it and looked forward to receiving and sending messages through Daisy.
Marnie’s contact with Willem was one she felt herself looking forward to more and more. She was attracted to Willem and longed to find out more about him. The longer Marnie worked as a pianist to help the Dutch resistance, the more Marnie started to become suspicious of everyone about her. She wasn’t sure who she could trust. Willem had warned her to trust no one. There was talk of Fifth Columns that had infiltrated London. Then Daisy sent Marnie a message for Willem. Marnie did not know how to find him. Willem had always come to her. With the help of Willem’s good friend, Marnie discovered that Willem had returned to Amsterdam. Why the sudden departure? What had Willem learned about to make him act so impulsively? Marnie had made up her mind that she had to find Willem. She would do whatever she needed to do even if it meant that she and Willem’s friend would have to leave London and go to Amsterdam. Marnie had to find out why Willem had returned to Amsterdam so suddenly. Would Marnie be able to find him and deliver the message she had received for him? What role would Marnie play in Amsterdam? Could she be of help to the resistance cell Willem was part of?
I really enjoyed reading The War Pianist by Mandy Robotham. It portrayed the actions of the Dutch citizens who formed resistance cells and rose up against the Nazis. The Dutch resistance could not fight the Nazis alone, though. Willing volunteers like Marnie and her grandfather until he was unmercifully killed by German bombs and those in Amsterdam, teamed together, worked tirelessly and at times put their lives in danger, all to help their countries win the war against the Nazis. The War Pianist was about courage, family, loss, betrayal, espionage, bravery, strength, resolve and love. It was well written and researched. Mandy Robotham’s talent as a storyteller was masterful. I really enjoyed reading The War Pianist and recommend it highly.
Thank you to Avon Books for allowing me to read The War Pianist by Mandy Robotham through Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 16, 2022
Well who knew that a pianist in Ww1/2 is a controller or operator of a radio transmitter, tapping Morse fast as if playing a lively tune on a piano?? It’s July 1940 and Corrie Bakker in an Amsterdam under Nazi occupation, works for the Resistance. Danger approaches on all sides as she desperately tries to protect her family from the encroaching threats especially in the form of rising Abwehr ‘star’ Lothar Selig.
London in September 1940 is raining fire courtesy of the Luftwaffe intent on bringing Britain to her knees in the Blitz. Marnie Fern who works at the BBC, picks her way through the burning debris to the safety of the Underground. Once the raid ends she makes her way to her beloved grandad’s house to discover he has been killed in the attack. She’s further shocked by the discovery that he’s been working as a pianist connecting to Corrie. Marnie knows she has to continue the work in honour of her grandfather. This is a story of connecting parallel lives in a desperate bid to survive.
Mandy Robotham writes war stories so well as she seems to be able to bring it alive and make you utterly invest in the main characters lives. You can smell the cordite in the air as well as taste the fear, see the rubble left behind and hear the danger especially from the approaching boots in occupied Amsterdam. The writing is vivid and although you know what happens it still has the capacity to shock because the author makes it personal.
This is a story of exemplary bravery with unseen danger and the very real possibility of betrayal. It’s very tense at times particularly in Amsterdam but all the characters have to have their eyes peeled and use all their senses the whole time as there’s the claustrophobia of being watched. It’s a story of survival anyway, anyhow. It’s full of fear, cruelty, terrifying manipulation but also of audacity. There’s everything from treachery to sadness and grief to firm bonds of friendship. I become totally caught up in their lives and will them on.
The ending feels a bit rushed and though it brings everything up to date I think this powerful novel deserves a powerful ending. Despite this I have no hesitation in recommending to fans of historical fiction.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
London in September 1940 is raining fire courtesy of the Luftwaffe intent on bringing Britain to her knees in the Blitz. Marnie Fern who works at the BBC, picks her way through the burning debris to the safety of the Underground. Once the raid ends she makes her way to her beloved grandad’s house to discover he has been killed in the attack. She’s further shocked by the discovery that he’s been working as a pianist connecting to Corrie. Marnie knows she has to continue the work in honour of her grandfather. This is a story of connecting parallel lives in a desperate bid to survive.
Mandy Robotham writes war stories so well as she seems to be able to bring it alive and make you utterly invest in the main characters lives. You can smell the cordite in the air as well as taste the fear, see the rubble left behind and hear the danger especially from the approaching boots in occupied Amsterdam. The writing is vivid and although you know what happens it still has the capacity to shock because the author makes it personal.
This is a story of exemplary bravery with unseen danger and the very real possibility of betrayal. It’s very tense at times particularly in Amsterdam but all the characters have to have their eyes peeled and use all their senses the whole time as there’s the claustrophobia of being watched. It’s a story of survival anyway, anyhow. It’s full of fear, cruelty, terrifying manipulation but also of audacity. There’s everything from treachery to sadness and grief to firm bonds of friendship. I become totally caught up in their lives and will them on.
The ending feels a bit rushed and though it brings everything up to date I think this powerful novel deserves a powerful ending. Despite this I have no hesitation in recommending to fans of historical fiction.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
The blitz in London was in full swing when Marnie Fern's life was shaken badly. Her beloved grandfather was killed when a bomb levelled his shop, but in her grief she felt him beside her. Marnie discovered, on searching for anything she could save, that her grandfather was Gatsby, a clandestine radio operator for the Dutch resistance. Marnie was determined to take over his role, knowing she could do it as her nimble fingers meant she'd be a successful pianist for the cause. With Willem, her grandfather's handler in London, getting her started with the training she needed, it wasn't long before Marnie was crossing the airwaves to Daisy in Amsterdam, her own call sign Lizzie.
When Corrie Bakker disappeared, suspected to be in Nazi hands, the resistance immediately started planning for her rescue. With Willem, his good friend Gus and Marnie heading to Amsterdam to join the resistance in their search, no one knew what would happen in the days ahead. Would the Nazis prevail? Or would the Dutch resistance succeed? And did they have a spy within their group?
The War Pianist is another brilliant historical novel by Mandy Robotham which I enjoyed very much. The radio operators were called "pianists" for their nimble fingers, with the need to send morse coded messages in under a minute, so their position wasn't compromised. Filled with excellent characters - Marnie, Corrie, Felix, Willem to name but a few - I found I couldn't put this one down. I really enjoy this author's writing, and this one is no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When Corrie Bakker disappeared, suspected to be in Nazi hands, the resistance immediately started planning for her rescue. With Willem, his good friend Gus and Marnie heading to Amsterdam to join the resistance in their search, no one knew what would happen in the days ahead. Would the Nazis prevail? Or would the Dutch resistance succeed? And did they have a spy within their group?
The War Pianist is another brilliant historical novel by Mandy Robotham which I enjoyed very much. The radio operators were called "pianists" for their nimble fingers, with the need to send morse coded messages in under a minute, so their position wasn't compromised. Filled with excellent characters - Marnie, Corrie, Felix, Willem to name but a few - I found I couldn't put this one down. I really enjoy this author's writing, and this one is no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2023
Marnie Fern is employed by the British Broadcasting House, her grandfather Gilbert Coop is a tailor and she visits him after work. So far in England there hasnt been any air raids, but when they begin the Luftwaffe drop bombs every night and it's catastrophic. Marnie is devastated when her beloved grandfather is killed in one of these raids, she returns to his shop, Marnie discovers a radio set and he’s being working as an undercover radio operative and helping the Dutch resistance.
Corrie Bakker is a mother, she lives in Amsterdam and owns a bookshop and at night she works as a radio operative. When she doesn’t hear from Gatsby she’s worried, she has no idea he’s been killed and his granddaughter is keen to follow his footsteps. Two women living in different war torn cities, both want to help their countries and at considerable risk to their own safety.
Marnie’s grandfather taught her Morse code, after a week’s training somewhere in Oxfordshire, she easily passes, and Marnie continues to work for the BBC during the day and Lizzy sends messages to Daisy in Amsterdam at night. War tore up the rule book for many women, for Connie and Marnie it was a meeting of like minds over the airwaves. Both are excellent "pianists" the nick name given to radio operators, but both face challenges daily and the danger of being betrayed.
Marnie meets Willem Bakker, he escaped Amsterdam with his friend Gus and she has no idea he’s Connie son. In Amsterdam, Connie is trying to keep her daughter Kees safe and her aging Uncle Hendrik, from the Gestapo, SS and the Abwehr and most of all the evil German officer Lothar Selig. People are in hiding all over Amsterdam, in a series of safe houses and even at the Artis zoo.
I received a copy of The War Pianist from NetGalley and Avon Books UK in exchange for an honest review. Mandy Robotham has done it again, a thoroughly researched and interesting narrative set during the Second World War. I had never heard of the term “pianist” for a radio operator before, their fingers did have to move quickly and they only had a short time to send a coded message. Both of the main characters are focused, realistic, saw things as they were, women who wanted to change the course of the war and did. I highly recommend reading this book if you enjoy WW II historical fiction and Ms. Robothams previous books, The Berlin Girl and The Resistance Girl, and another five star read for me.
Corrie Bakker is a mother, she lives in Amsterdam and owns a bookshop and at night she works as a radio operative. When she doesn’t hear from Gatsby she’s worried, she has no idea he’s been killed and his granddaughter is keen to follow his footsteps. Two women living in different war torn cities, both want to help their countries and at considerable risk to their own safety.
Marnie’s grandfather taught her Morse code, after a week’s training somewhere in Oxfordshire, she easily passes, and Marnie continues to work for the BBC during the day and Lizzy sends messages to Daisy in Amsterdam at night. War tore up the rule book for many women, for Connie and Marnie it was a meeting of like minds over the airwaves. Both are excellent "pianists" the nick name given to radio operators, but both face challenges daily and the danger of being betrayed.
Marnie meets Willem Bakker, he escaped Amsterdam with his friend Gus and she has no idea he’s Connie son. In Amsterdam, Connie is trying to keep her daughter Kees safe and her aging Uncle Hendrik, from the Gestapo, SS and the Abwehr and most of all the evil German officer Lothar Selig. People are in hiding all over Amsterdam, in a series of safe houses and even at the Artis zoo.
I received a copy of The War Pianist from NetGalley and Avon Books UK in exchange for an honest review. Mandy Robotham has done it again, a thoroughly researched and interesting narrative set during the Second World War. I had never heard of the term “pianist” for a radio operator before, their fingers did have to move quickly and they only had a short time to send a coded message. Both of the main characters are focused, realistic, saw things as they were, women who wanted to change the course of the war and did. I highly recommend reading this book if you enjoy WW II historical fiction and Ms. Robothams previous books, The Berlin Girl and The Resistance Girl, and another five star read for me.
January 4, 2023
There’s no tickling the ivories in this one!
Go into this one blind. Don’t read the synopsis.
You’ll have to read to find out what a ‘war pianist’ really is and why they were essential to the resistance movement.
I loved that both pianists, one in Blitzed London and one in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam relied on their skill and put their life on the line for the war effort. Robotham made sure her readers knew exactly what was involved in this risk and the tension is palpable. As I got further into the book, I realized how similar these two girls’ journeys really were and the trust they needed to develop in each other to survive. I appreciated the fresh perspective of ‘fighting’ in the Dutch resistance.
Robotham wraps her readers tightly in her taut plot and continues to feed the tension with brazen acts of bravery, the acknowledgement of a mole within the ranks, and imprisonment. Counterbalancing it is a much-needed respite full of love and, albeit complicated, romance. I felt as though I were right there with Corrie and Marnie because Robotham appealed to my 5 senses and allowed me to enter the mind of a war pianist. I’ll admit to being a little let down with the ending, but appreciated the fine writing in this survival against-all-odds story. As always, Robotham amazes me with her skill to place me in the action and leave me with thankfulness for my freedom.
Congratulations on a fantastic cover!
I was gifted this spectacular story by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Go into this one blind. Don’t read the synopsis.
You’ll have to read to find out what a ‘war pianist’ really is and why they were essential to the resistance movement.
I loved that both pianists, one in Blitzed London and one in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam relied on their skill and put their life on the line for the war effort. Robotham made sure her readers knew exactly what was involved in this risk and the tension is palpable. As I got further into the book, I realized how similar these two girls’ journeys really were and the trust they needed to develop in each other to survive. I appreciated the fresh perspective of ‘fighting’ in the Dutch resistance.
Robotham wraps her readers tightly in her taut plot and continues to feed the tension with brazen acts of bravery, the acknowledgement of a mole within the ranks, and imprisonment. Counterbalancing it is a much-needed respite full of love and, albeit complicated, romance. I felt as though I were right there with Corrie and Marnie because Robotham appealed to my 5 senses and allowed me to enter the mind of a war pianist. I’ll admit to being a little let down with the ending, but appreciated the fine writing in this survival against-all-odds story. As always, Robotham amazes me with her skill to place me in the action and leave me with thankfulness for my freedom.
Congratulations on a fantastic cover!
I was gifted this spectacular story by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 2, 2023
I finished this amazing book a few days ago and I have been writing and rewriting my review in my head and I still can't find a way to write it so as not to spoil it for any one who wants to read it! So here goes!
" Pianist [ NOUN] Informal. A person who operates or controls a radio transmitter - often in code."
I told a couple of my friends that this book cover should say, " Warning ⚠️ Once you start reading it, you can't put it down!! " 🤣 It's true, I was completely, utterly glued to it and I kept turning the pages to see what was going to happen next! When I was getting close to the end of the story, I wanted to see how it ended but at the same time I didn't want this story to end. The writing is flawless and flows so beautifully like the notes flying off a piano while the pianist is playing a beautiful melody.
There's so much going on, I mean it takes place WW2 during the Blitz in London in July, 1940. Here Air raid sirens go off so frequently that the people start taking them for granted. Parents are making some hard decisions to send their children to safety in other countries and bombings are happening everywhere. Posters are all over the place saying things like " Chin up and stay strong!" Also in Nazi- occupied Amsterdam where the Resistance is battling the Nazis and not only Jews, but other people are hiding from the Nazis in order to survive. I learned that people actually hid in zoos because that's the last place a German soldier would look. During all this Marnie in London is a pianist communicating with Corrie in Amsterdam as they try to protect those they love. I have to mention a little boy named Felix! He's in Amsterdam and on orphan taken in by Corrie, he's maybe 9 years old. Felix jumped in my heart and made his home there!!
It's a story full of people betrayed by others that they thought they could trust, love, courage, adventure, family and friends with strong bonds and some mysteries to solve. There's so many twists and turns all the way through and a final gut wrenching twist that will have you close the book with a smile on your face and tears in your eyes. It's an action packed story and a fast read that doesn't disappoint. Only one minor flaw, towards the end of the book, there's a small amount of swearing, but I could overlook it because it's not a lot and it's a fantastic book!! I really highly recommend this emotionally moving book!
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨
" Pianist [ NOUN] Informal. A person who operates or controls a radio transmitter - often in code."
I told a couple of my friends that this book cover should say, " Warning ⚠️ Once you start reading it, you can't put it down!! " 🤣 It's true, I was completely, utterly glued to it and I kept turning the pages to see what was going to happen next! When I was getting close to the end of the story, I wanted to see how it ended but at the same time I didn't want this story to end. The writing is flawless and flows so beautifully like the notes flying off a piano while the pianist is playing a beautiful melody.
There's so much going on, I mean it takes place WW2 during the Blitz in London in July, 1940. Here Air raid sirens go off so frequently that the people start taking them for granted. Parents are making some hard decisions to send their children to safety in other countries and bombings are happening everywhere. Posters are all over the place saying things like " Chin up and stay strong!" Also in Nazi- occupied Amsterdam where the Resistance is battling the Nazis and not only Jews, but other people are hiding from the Nazis in order to survive. I learned that people actually hid in zoos because that's the last place a German soldier would look. During all this Marnie in London is a pianist communicating with Corrie in Amsterdam as they try to protect those they love. I have to mention a little boy named Felix! He's in Amsterdam and on orphan taken in by Corrie, he's maybe 9 years old. Felix jumped in my heart and made his home there!!
It's a story full of people betrayed by others that they thought they could trust, love, courage, adventure, family and friends with strong bonds and some mysteries to solve. There's so many twists and turns all the way through and a final gut wrenching twist that will have you close the book with a smile on your face and tears in your eyes. It's an action packed story and a fast read that doesn't disappoint. Only one minor flaw, towards the end of the book, there's a small amount of swearing, but I could overlook it because it's not a lot and it's a fantastic book!! I really highly recommend this emotionally moving book!
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨
January 12, 2023
July 1940
Marnie Fern works as a production assistant for the BBC in London. She is devasted to hear that her grandfather has been killed while working at his shop. While visiting the ruins, as she wants something to remember him by, she meets Willem who tells her that her grandfather worked for the resistance as a Pianist, which was also known as a Radio operator. Tapping Morse coded messages to and from the resistance in Amsterdam. She tells Willem what she does at the BBC to Willem and tells her she will be a great candidate to be a Pianist herself. Taking over the duties left from her grandfather. She agrees to help them fight the war against the Nazi’s.
Whilst working she builds up a relationship which one of the resistance operators in the Netherlands Corrie Bakker who has connection to Willem. When Willem receives a letter telling him that Corrie has gone missing. His first action is to decide to go and find out what happened to her. Marnie decides to go with him to help him find her.
The War Pianist by Mandy Rob is the sixth book from the author that I have read and another powerful and emotional story about the Resistance in WW11. From the first page I was intrigued. As I have heard a lot of the Resistance in France but not so much of what happened to the people that risked their lives in the Netherlands and the horrors that they endured. This is another 5-star read from the author. I highly recommend.
Marnie Fern works as a production assistant for the BBC in London. She is devasted to hear that her grandfather has been killed while working at his shop. While visiting the ruins, as she wants something to remember him by, she meets Willem who tells her that her grandfather worked for the resistance as a Pianist, which was also known as a Radio operator. Tapping Morse coded messages to and from the resistance in Amsterdam. She tells Willem what she does at the BBC to Willem and tells her she will be a great candidate to be a Pianist herself. Taking over the duties left from her grandfather. She agrees to help them fight the war against the Nazi’s.
Whilst working she builds up a relationship which one of the resistance operators in the Netherlands Corrie Bakker who has connection to Willem. When Willem receives a letter telling him that Corrie has gone missing. His first action is to decide to go and find out what happened to her. Marnie decides to go with him to help him find her.
The War Pianist by Mandy Rob is the sixth book from the author that I have read and another powerful and emotional story about the Resistance in WW11. From the first page I was intrigued. As I have heard a lot of the Resistance in France but not so much of what happened to the people that risked their lives in the Netherlands and the horrors that they endured. This is another 5-star read from the author. I highly recommend.
February 7, 2023
July 1940. Blitz-ridden London: Marnie Fern's life is torn apart when her grandfather is killed in an air raid. But once she discovers that he'd been working undercover as a radio operative - or pianist - for the Dutch Resistance, Marnie knows she must complete his mission - no matter the cost....
Nazi-occupied Amsterdam: At the other end of the wireless, fellow pianist Corrie Bakker is caught in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse as she desperately tries to keep her loved ones out of the line of fire - even if it means sacrificing herself....
This is a well-researched and descriptively written book. I did not know that a radio operative was also called a pianist during the war, as their fingers deftly moved across the keypad. We learn of two women who were pianists for the Dutch Resistance in Holland during WWII. Marnie was based in London and Corrie in Amsterdam. There are a few twists, betrayal, and a love story included. The pace is steady, and the characters are strong, brave and courageous. A story of family, friendship, love and loss. Once I got into the story, I was hooked. The story is told from multiple points of view. I loved this book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #MandyRobotham for my ARC of #TheWarPianist in exchange for an honest review.
Nazi-occupied Amsterdam: At the other end of the wireless, fellow pianist Corrie Bakker is caught in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse as she desperately tries to keep her loved ones out of the line of fire - even if it means sacrificing herself....
This is a well-researched and descriptively written book. I did not know that a radio operative was also called a pianist during the war, as their fingers deftly moved across the keypad. We learn of two women who were pianists for the Dutch Resistance in Holland during WWII. Marnie was based in London and Corrie in Amsterdam. There are a few twists, betrayal, and a love story included. The pace is steady, and the characters are strong, brave and courageous. A story of family, friendship, love and loss. Once I got into the story, I was hooked. The story is told from multiple points of view. I loved this book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #MandyRobotham for my ARC of #TheWarPianist in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2023
I liked the premise of this story unfortunately I found the writing style dull and lackluster. By page 134 I still didn’t know who all the characters were or their relationship to each other. I didn’t care for the ones I did know. I felt no connection to any of them.
February 14, 2023
This is now my fourth Mandy Robotham book and it's making me think I need to go back and read the first two so I can have 6/6.
This one follows two war pianists, aka radio operators, one in London and the other in Amsterdam, and it was pretty cool.
My dad was a radio operator when he was doing military service and I could also be a radio operator in the future with my degree, so books like these tickle my brain in a specific way. With that said, this one isn't my fav by the author, but it was still good.
The War Pianist made me cry early on, when Marnie lost her grandfather and whenever she remembered him after. There was one specific moment, where she felt his presence when she was about to start broadcasting that really touched me.
Other than that, not a lot happened, and the book is kind of slow paced. Most of the excitement is near the end, and the end itself wasn't totally satisfactory, even though it was a happy one.
I felt like the characters just woke up and were ready to take on anything and anyone...and then the book ended. So I do wish it was longer.
I'm still excited for whatever Mandy Robotham puts out next. As for this one, it's a 3.5ish.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This one follows two war pianists, aka radio operators, one in London and the other in Amsterdam, and it was pretty cool.
My dad was a radio operator when he was doing military service and I could also be a radio operator in the future with my degree, so books like these tickle my brain in a specific way. With that said, this one isn't my fav by the author, but it was still good.
The War Pianist made me cry early on, when Marnie lost her grandfather and whenever she remembered him after. There was one specific moment, where she felt his presence when she was about to start broadcasting that really touched me.
Other than that, not a lot happened, and the book is kind of slow paced. Most of the excitement is near the end, and the end itself wasn't totally satisfactory, even though it was a happy one.
I felt like the characters just woke up and were ready to take on anything and anyone...and then the book ended. So I do wish it was longer.
I'm still excited for whatever Mandy Robotham puts out next. As for this one, it's a 3.5ish.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
January 24, 2024
The War Pianist is exquisite writing of historical fiction at its finest. Thoroughly researched, the characters cove alive under the author's pen.
Marnie Fern has a close relationship with her grandfather and is devastated when his shop is destroyed during a bombing. The blitz in London is affecting everyone's lives. Combing through the rubble she discovers a radio set he had unbeknownst to her been working as an undercover radio operator helping the Dutch resistance.
I will admit the title of the book had me fooled. No piano or playing of one was included in the book.
Pianist were referred to as such during WWII as a person of any age operating a radio often in Morse code. Marnie knows she must continue on as a radio operator now, for him.
Another pianist is in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. these women put their lives on the line for the war effort. You can feel the tension rolling in with the twists and turns as the book moves along at a good pace. We see a lot of character development in Marnie compared to the start of the book, her grandfather's death encourages her to move onward and upward.
An emotionally moving book.
Pub Date 16 Feb 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Marnie Fern has a close relationship with her grandfather and is devastated when his shop is destroyed during a bombing. The blitz in London is affecting everyone's lives. Combing through the rubble she discovers a radio set he had unbeknownst to her been working as an undercover radio operator helping the Dutch resistance.
I will admit the title of the book had me fooled. No piano or playing of one was included in the book.
Pianist were referred to as such during WWII as a person of any age operating a radio often in Morse code. Marnie knows she must continue on as a radio operator now, for him.
Another pianist is in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. these women put their lives on the line for the war effort. You can feel the tension rolling in with the twists and turns as the book moves along at a good pace. We see a lot of character development in Marnie compared to the start of the book, her grandfather's death encourages her to move onward and upward.
An emotionally moving book.
Pub Date 16 Feb 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 3, 2023
The War Pianist is a love story with crossed wires. It has good details and I loved the writing.
For all that the plot was based around what women would want from a book and lacked a bit of realism. The author imagined the BBC really well though, and life in England in 1940. I found Marnie developed into someone brave enough to stitch wounds were the reader saw her as someone almost backward at the start of the book.
For all that the plot was based around what women would want from a book and lacked a bit of realism. The author imagined the BBC really well though, and life in England in 1940. I found Marnie developed into someone brave enough to stitch wounds were the reader saw her as someone almost backward at the start of the book.
February 3, 2023
Marnie Fern works at the BBC in wartime London. When her beloved grandfather is killed during a bombing raid, she discovers he was a radio transmitter, known as a pianist, assisting the Dutch resistance. She is approached and accepts an offer to take his place, transmitting secret messages to Corrie Bakker, her contact in Amsterdam. She is thrust into a world of intrigue where at any moment lives could be endangered and traitors could be afoot. Who can she really trust?
I have read and enjoyed quite a few of Robotham’s historical fiction works.
While this might not have been my favorite, she is a great story teller. Her books are well researched, tension filled, and engrossing, usually featuring a strong female character. While there is a lot of inhumanity, horror, and sadness in this book, it concludes with a feeling of hope. As a reader, I always want to know “what happened next?”. Her ending answered that question for me.
Thanks to #Netgalley and #avonbooksUK for the ARC.
I have read and enjoyed quite a few of Robotham’s historical fiction works.
While this might not have been my favorite, she is a great story teller. Her books are well researched, tension filled, and engrossing, usually featuring a strong female character. While there is a lot of inhumanity, horror, and sadness in this book, it concludes with a feeling of hope. As a reader, I always want to know “what happened next?”. Her ending answered that question for me.
Thanks to #Netgalley and #avonbooksUK for the ARC.
May 30, 2023
A moving WWII story about two women radio operators sending secret codes to one another only for one to be captured by the Nazis spurring the other to try to help mount a rescue. I knew a little about mobile radio operators (aka pianists) from another book but this was still an interesting read with some twists I didn't see coming at the end and well done on audio. Definitely recommended if you like WWII stories featuring brave women spies/morse code workers.
June 17, 2023
At the beginning of WWII, the Netherlands were invaded long before France. The Dutch resistance were working with London to share information to try and stop Hitler. This story taught me about a Pianist: A person who operates or controls a radio transmitter – often in code. Marnie Fern works for the BBC, but when her grandfather is killed in an air raid, she finds out that he was working undercover as a pianist, a radio operator, with the Dutch resistance. She quickly figures out the code and begins to transmit messages to his contact, known as Daisy. She takes on the name of Lizzy, from one of her favourite books. When there is no response one night, Willem heads to Amsterdam to see if they can find out what happened to her. Marnie convinces his co-resistance worker to take her to Amsterdam to try and find Willem, so they set off. What has happened to Daisy, aka Corrie Bakker, Willem's mother. His sister, Kees, has already been killed, his mother must survive. Where is Willem now?
Although this story is not based on one real person, it is the culmination of many resistance fighters. Research using personal diaries helped flesh out the characters in the resistance as well as Marnie who was based on Marjorie Redman, a sub-editor for The Spectator Magazine. Lothar Selig is an evil German officer, who is trying to work his way up in Hitler's favour. He is ruthless, yet vain as well. This is used against him. Although this is historical fiction, settings and events, such as hiding wanted persons in the Artis Zoo actually happened. The characters are brave, smart, willing to give up their lives to save others, and tenacious. They move from place to place while sending messages so as not to get caught. Once they complete a mission they are on, the story quickly wraps up, a bit too quickly for me, as I had become invested in this story and it felt a bit rushed to me. The War Pianist is a book about courage, family, loss, betrayal, espionage, bravery, strength, resolve and love. It was well written and researched, what I have come to expect from Mandy Robotham's books. I liked that I learned about another aspect of WW2 and the terrible things that happened. We must never forget. Holly Janowski narrated this audiobook and she did a fine job. I have not heard her before, but I enjoyed her performance.
Although this story is not based on one real person, it is the culmination of many resistance fighters. Research using personal diaries helped flesh out the characters in the resistance as well as Marnie who was based on Marjorie Redman, a sub-editor for The Spectator Magazine. Lothar Selig is an evil German officer, who is trying to work his way up in Hitler's favour. He is ruthless, yet vain as well. This is used against him. Although this is historical fiction, settings and events, such as hiding wanted persons in the Artis Zoo actually happened. The characters are brave, smart, willing to give up their lives to save others, and tenacious. They move from place to place while sending messages so as not to get caught. Once they complete a mission they are on, the story quickly wraps up, a bit too quickly for me, as I had become invested in this story and it felt a bit rushed to me. The War Pianist is a book about courage, family, loss, betrayal, espionage, bravery, strength, resolve and love. It was well written and researched, what I have come to expect from Mandy Robotham's books. I liked that I learned about another aspect of WW2 and the terrible things that happened. We must never forget. Holly Janowski narrated this audiobook and she did a fine job. I have not heard her before, but I enjoyed her performance.
Read
January 25, 2024No rating. I'm a pianist and was interested just by the title alone. No piano or even playing the piano was mentioned. The first part of the book is sad and where I stopped -- it was even more so. I do not like reading "dark" books. There have to be glimmers of light here and there. For me, I lost interest in trying to find one and set the book on NetGalley as "not reviewing".
February 18, 2023
I thought the war pianist was about something Else lol. But I really enjoyed this book, people risking their own lives, to fight the nazis. I liked the Main characters, how they grew. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
August 6, 2023
2.5 stars
I wanted to love this, I really did. This one just missed the mark for me.
The plot was shallow, there was no proper character development, and everything moved at a very slow pace. It's possible I didn't enjoy this because I was comparing it to the author's other novels as well as other WWII fiction, but even with a lower standard, this fell flat.
The synopsis of the novel focused on two female spies/radio transmitters risking their lives on either side of the radio. Although they were the main characters and they did risk their lives, there wasn't a lot of radio transmitting actually done and I wish there would have been more details about the resistance's actions and the effects of the transmissions. Everything here seemed extremely surface level. Even when the book did pick up a bit (without spoilers I'll say it was on Corrie's end), it slowed again quickly. Once a novel picks up on the rise and fall leading the climax, it should not stop short.
The ending itself was very meh. The answer we were waiting for the entire book did not have any thought put in and felt like such a waste of a mystery. *Slight spoiler* When the author revealed who the traitor was I was like "Him? Seriously? He was so irrelevant!!" and it just ruined the whole effect. She shouldn't have even bothered because it didn't add anything to the novel or the plot.
Overall, definitely not my favourite Mandy Robotham. If you enjoy historical fiction, read The German Midwife instead...
I wanted to love this, I really did. This one just missed the mark for me.
The plot was shallow, there was no proper character development, and everything moved at a very slow pace. It's possible I didn't enjoy this because I was comparing it to the author's other novels as well as other WWII fiction, but even with a lower standard, this fell flat.
The synopsis of the novel focused on two female spies/radio transmitters risking their lives on either side of the radio. Although they were the main characters and they did risk their lives, there wasn't a lot of radio transmitting actually done and I wish there would have been more details about the resistance's actions and the effects of the transmissions. Everything here seemed extremely surface level. Even when the book did pick up a bit (without spoilers I'll say it was on Corrie's end), it slowed again quickly. Once a novel picks up on the rise and fall leading the climax, it should not stop short.
The ending itself was very meh. The answer we were waiting for the entire book did not have any thought put in and felt like such a waste of a mystery. *Slight spoiler* When the author revealed who the traitor was I was like "Him? Seriously? He was so irrelevant!!" and it just ruined the whole effect. She shouldn't have even bothered because it didn't add anything to the novel or the plot.
Overall, definitely not my favourite Mandy Robotham. If you enjoy historical fiction, read The German Midwife instead...
January 9, 2023
July, 1940
This gripping and heartbreaking WW11 historical fiction is set in Blitz-ridden London and Nazi-occupied Amsterdam.
In London:
The story tells us how Marnie after the death of her grandfather replaced him at his post and became an undercover radio operator or pianist for the Dutch resistance and set to complete his mission at any cost.
While in Amsterdam:
Fellow pianist Corrie Bakker is at the other end of the wireless and trying to survive caught in a cat and mouse game.
My thoughts:
Powerful and haunting, Ms. Robotham captures the tension and fear in her unique and captivating style. This story is well-written, fast-paced and very suspenseful. With multiple points of views this gripping story of Morse code, adventure, bravery and courage is one of a kind and very hard to put down, it has so much to offer. I was utterly invested in the characters’ lives, they seemed so real. Richly told you can picture the rubble left behind and hear the bombs falling even smell the cordite in the air and the scary marching boots in Amsterdam.
Set in the era I love to read “The War Pianist” ticks all the boxes for me: vivid descriptions, interesting insights in the resistance, wonderful characterization and a compelling storyline that flows very well.
Thank you Avon Books UK and Netgalley for this ARC
This gripping and heartbreaking WW11 historical fiction is set in Blitz-ridden London and Nazi-occupied Amsterdam.
In London:
The story tells us how Marnie after the death of her grandfather replaced him at his post and became an undercover radio operator or pianist for the Dutch resistance and set to complete his mission at any cost.
While in Amsterdam:
Fellow pianist Corrie Bakker is at the other end of the wireless and trying to survive caught in a cat and mouse game.
My thoughts:
Powerful and haunting, Ms. Robotham captures the tension and fear in her unique and captivating style. This story is well-written, fast-paced and very suspenseful. With multiple points of views this gripping story of Morse code, adventure, bravery and courage is one of a kind and very hard to put down, it has so much to offer. I was utterly invested in the characters’ lives, they seemed so real. Richly told you can picture the rubble left behind and hear the bombs falling even smell the cordite in the air and the scary marching boots in Amsterdam.
Set in the era I love to read “The War Pianist” ticks all the boxes for me: vivid descriptions, interesting insights in the resistance, wonderful characterization and a compelling storyline that flows very well.
Thank you Avon Books UK and Netgalley for this ARC
March 28, 2023
‘… when the streets outside are layered in dust and debris, as if Hitler has shaken the contents of a giant vacuum cleaner bag across Britain’s capital.’
I have read and loved all of Mandy’s books and I believe her latest offering, The War Pianist, may very well be one of her best! As always Mandy offers her readers a story packed with everything historical fiction readers love - espionage and betrayal, to plights and flights whether it be in blitz ridden London or Nazi occupied Amsterdam.
‘… a mesh of letters and numbers … the vital work of a radio ‘pianist’ with nimble fingers … this fleeting stream of dots and dashes spells out ‘hope’ in her mind.’
There is never any doubt on the amount of research Mandy undertakes for her books. I learnt so much as I had never heard of radio operators being referred to as ‘pianists’ for their lightning finger movement in sending coded messages in quick time so as their position may never be compromised. Mandy’s war stories come alive off the page as she makes each and everyone of her characters someone you care about. You not only see the rubble in the streets of London but you feel the fear as Nazi boots are heard approaching on the streets of Amsterdam. Mandy’s writing is so vivid that despite all the knowledge readers bring, she still can invoke fear and shock as events play out.
‘Only inside are you allowed to die and scream and pummel your heart back into life and weep into your WVS tea, which swills alongside the swallowed-back tears.’
The story is brilliantly paced with twists and turns, with courage and bravery and with a touch of romance (shout out to the Jane Austen references, “Darcy to her Lizzy”.) Told from multiple points of view, Mandy’s writing is sure to hook you especially as Marnie is just an ordinary person like many of us and therefore so relatable in her thoughts and actions. Congratulations Mandy on yet another winning book. I have read and adored all your books and recommend them highly to all lovers of historical fiction.
‘Is she strong enough to withstand it? Equally, can she walk away and pretend this doesn’t exist?’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
I have read and loved all of Mandy’s books and I believe her latest offering, The War Pianist, may very well be one of her best! As always Mandy offers her readers a story packed with everything historical fiction readers love - espionage and betrayal, to plights and flights whether it be in blitz ridden London or Nazi occupied Amsterdam.
‘… a mesh of letters and numbers … the vital work of a radio ‘pianist’ with nimble fingers … this fleeting stream of dots and dashes spells out ‘hope’ in her mind.’
There is never any doubt on the amount of research Mandy undertakes for her books. I learnt so much as I had never heard of radio operators being referred to as ‘pianists’ for their lightning finger movement in sending coded messages in quick time so as their position may never be compromised. Mandy’s war stories come alive off the page as she makes each and everyone of her characters someone you care about. You not only see the rubble in the streets of London but you feel the fear as Nazi boots are heard approaching on the streets of Amsterdam. Mandy’s writing is so vivid that despite all the knowledge readers bring, she still can invoke fear and shock as events play out.
‘Only inside are you allowed to die and scream and pummel your heart back into life and weep into your WVS tea, which swills alongside the swallowed-back tears.’
The story is brilliantly paced with twists and turns, with courage and bravery and with a touch of romance (shout out to the Jane Austen references, “Darcy to her Lizzy”.) Told from multiple points of view, Mandy’s writing is sure to hook you especially as Marnie is just an ordinary person like many of us and therefore so relatable in her thoughts and actions. Congratulations Mandy on yet another winning book. I have read and adored all your books and recommend them highly to all lovers of historical fiction.
‘Is she strong enough to withstand it? Equally, can she walk away and pretend this doesn’t exist?’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
November 8, 2022
From London to Amsterdam
An exciting and heartbreaking story of WWII resistance in Amsterdam. A story of courage and strength of those brave men and women that resisted the Nazi's during the occupation of Amsterdam.
Marnie is working at the BBC in London when she is recruited by Willem a member of the resistance to be a Pianist during the London Blitz of WWII. A pianist was what a radio operator was known as. He finds her in the ruins of her grandfather's shop and tells her that her grandfather was working with the resistance and that she would be perfect to take over his job. She is thinks about the offer and the fact that her grandfather was killed during the Blitz by a bomb. After that she decides she must do what she can to help stop the Nazi's.
As a pianist for the resistance she talks to a pianist in Amsterdam passing on news from London to Amsterdam as they are occupied by the Nazi's and have no outside news coming in. The two women Marnie and Corrie grow fond of each other. When Corrie goes missing and Willem disappears she travels to Amsterdam with another resistance member to find them
An exciting historical story of the fight in Amsterdam. The Characters are wonderfully set for the story, the places and scenes are vividly described and the war scenes are accurately described for the historical period covered.
War is never pleasant it is always brutal and evil and should never happen. Unfortunately it does and when it does it is tragic for everyone . One of the greatest things we can ever pray for is peace.
This story has everything, espionage, love and romance, danger, betrayal, flight, imprisonment by the Nazi's and the daring exploits of the young resistance fighters.
This was a great story and I enjoyed reading it. I would recommend it.
Thanks to Mandy Robotham for writing another great WWII story, to Avon Books U.K. for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
An exciting and heartbreaking story of WWII resistance in Amsterdam. A story of courage and strength of those brave men and women that resisted the Nazi's during the occupation of Amsterdam.
Marnie is working at the BBC in London when she is recruited by Willem a member of the resistance to be a Pianist during the London Blitz of WWII. A pianist was what a radio operator was known as. He finds her in the ruins of her grandfather's shop and tells her that her grandfather was working with the resistance and that she would be perfect to take over his job. She is thinks about the offer and the fact that her grandfather was killed during the Blitz by a bomb. After that she decides she must do what she can to help stop the Nazi's.
As a pianist for the resistance she talks to a pianist in Amsterdam passing on news from London to Amsterdam as they are occupied by the Nazi's and have no outside news coming in. The two women Marnie and Corrie grow fond of each other. When Corrie goes missing and Willem disappears she travels to Amsterdam with another resistance member to find them
An exciting historical story of the fight in Amsterdam. The Characters are wonderfully set for the story, the places and scenes are vividly described and the war scenes are accurately described for the historical period covered.
War is never pleasant it is always brutal and evil and should never happen. Unfortunately it does and when it does it is tragic for everyone . One of the greatest things we can ever pray for is peace.
This story has everything, espionage, love and romance, danger, betrayal, flight, imprisonment by the Nazi's and the daring exploits of the young resistance fighters.
This was a great story and I enjoyed reading it. I would recommend it.
Thanks to Mandy Robotham for writing another great WWII story, to Avon Books U.K. for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
January 6, 2023
Unfortunately this one was just okay. Many, many times I struggled trying to get through this book. I just kept telling myself it would get more and more exciting and it just didn’t. I really love this author so I’m very sad to have to write this review.
I did like the two main characters in the book. I thought they were really well written and easy to follow. I didn’t however have an emotional reaction to them. I like when characters make me feel things and then I try to put myself in their shoes.
This one just didn’t do it for me. I will continue to read books from this author though as I love all her other work.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy!
I did like the two main characters in the book. I thought they were really well written and easy to follow. I didn’t however have an emotional reaction to them. I like when characters make me feel things and then I try to put myself in their shoes.
This one just didn’t do it for me. I will continue to read books from this author though as I love all her other work.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy!
November 15, 2022
The War Pianist. Much better title than radio operator. Never knew a Morse code operator is called a pianist, very poetic. And that’s just what this book is, poetry. Absolutely fave book by this author. She really knows how to weave live, betrayal, intrigue, murder, war and turmoil into a beautiful story. Thanks so much for giving me an early opportunity to read this historical fiction book of the year! Historical, Poetic masterpiece!
November 26, 2022
My first Mandy Robatham book and definitely won’t be my last! Ticked all the boxes for me and I learned so much I didn’t know about the Dutch resistance. The best war saga I’ve read since The Nightingale by Kristen Hannah.
June 16, 2023
Thank you Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
The bravery and selflessness of the resistance fighters in World War Two is well documented as they risked their lives for the betterment of mankind and slowdown the mechanical rut of the inhumanity.
Their stories and plights must never be forgotten and Mandy once again has showcased their resilience and the sacrifice.
Two women, two cities and one cause unites these spies.
Marnie is in London, a city that the Germans wanted obliterated and made life scary and dangerous for its inhabitants.
Air raid sirens and a landscape of debris becoming normal as the stoic people continued to fight on every front.
The death of her grandfather in an attack alters the course of her life as she discovers his secrets.
Corrie is living in occupied Holland and is radio operator sending coded messages to fight the enemy within.
A friendship forming over the radio waves.
A story of strong female friendship, unity and survival in tumultuous times.
I feel confident when Mandy takes me on journey back in time, her characters are given a realistic type of respect and depth and I always learn something new.
I did not know the radio operators were known as Pianists and or too much about Dutch occupation.
She captures ordinary people doing extraordinary things very well.
The bravery and selflessness of the resistance fighters in World War Two is well documented as they risked their lives for the betterment of mankind and slowdown the mechanical rut of the inhumanity.
Their stories and plights must never be forgotten and Mandy once again has showcased their resilience and the sacrifice.
Two women, two cities and one cause unites these spies.
Marnie is in London, a city that the Germans wanted obliterated and made life scary and dangerous for its inhabitants.
Air raid sirens and a landscape of debris becoming normal as the stoic people continued to fight on every front.
The death of her grandfather in an attack alters the course of her life as she discovers his secrets.
Corrie is living in occupied Holland and is radio operator sending coded messages to fight the enemy within.
A friendship forming over the radio waves.
A story of strong female friendship, unity and survival in tumultuous times.
I feel confident when Mandy takes me on journey back in time, her characters are given a realistic type of respect and depth and I always learn something new.
I did not know the radio operators were known as Pianists and or too much about Dutch occupation.
She captures ordinary people doing extraordinary things very well.
May 30, 2024
I am so glad I don’t live in the war times. The things that people had go through is unimaginable!
I like the way it was written and I listened to that version. I really enjoy when they have different voices for the different characters.
I enjoyed this time piece!
I like the way it was written and I listened to that version. I really enjoy when they have different voices for the different characters.
I enjoyed this time piece!
November 9, 2022
This is my third read by Mandy Robotham and in my opinion it’s her best book so far. I thought it was written beautifully and is an absolute pleasure to read. The book captured my interest immediately and held it all the way through. I really liked the two main characters Marnie and Willem and was rooting for them throughout. I thought the writing was very eloquent and descriptive, the story flowed really well, and I enjoyed reading this through the perspectives of Marnie and Corrie. I could picture scenes of the Blitz in London in my mind, and think the author portrayed her characters thoughts, feelings, emotions and actions perfectly. I loved the tension in the story, not knowing who to trust and I was desperate to know what would come next at times.. I’ve not read many books about how the war affected the people in Holland so this was a very refreshing and interesting read. I enjoyed the different country settings, and thought this gave the book a lot more depth. As the story was coming to its conclusion I was willing the characters on and thought the ending was very fitting. Overall this is a fab read, probably one of the best historical fiction books I’ve read this year and if you’re a fan of this genre give this a try, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Cannot fault this book at all, I loved everything about it.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 19, 2025
3.5 stars - This book is filled with brave, unselfish people who during WWII, gave everything they had for the safety and well-being of others. It's about two strong women, one living in London, the other in Amsterdam, who both are pianists, which is someone who does Morse code on a radio transmitter. Marnie works at the BBC in London during the Blitz, when she meets Willem and starts secretly transmitting messages to Amsterdam for the Dutch resistance. That's where she encounters Corrie, who is part of the Dutch resistance in Amsterdam and is very special to Willem. After Willem disappears back to Amsterdam, Marnie decides to leave her mundane life in London and go to Amsterdam to help look for Willem. There, she encounters brave resistance fighters and does her best to fit in and help. After finding Willem, they find out Corrie is a prisoner of the Reich. They all decide to come up with a plan to free her. This is a well-written, well-researched, book filled with great characters and lots of heart and love.
September 25, 2025
The War Pianist is set during the Second World War and features both the home front and the occupation of Holland.
Marnie works at the BBC, assisting with programme production. Early in the story we hear that her Grandfather dies as a result of a bomb during the London Blitz. While sorting through the remains of his home, Marnie discovers a wireless radio transmitter and various code books. They remind her of the Morse code games that she used to play with her Grandfather when she was a child.
This discovery leads nicely into her encounter with a member of the Dutch resistance. Willem befriends Marnie and reveals that her Grandfather played a vital role in sending and receiving messages to a Dutch resistance cell. He proposes that Marnie takes over the role.
While part one of the book takes place in London, part two sees the action in Holland. Marnie’s contact goes silent and Willem gets an urgent message from home. Soon they are in the thick of resistance work and their lives are now in real danger.
The story hops back and forth between Marnie and her counterpart in Holland. I liked how this story featured the resistance in Holland, as opposed to the quantity of similar stories that are set in France. I also liked the parts about the BBC and Marnie’s work there. A few times I felt that events were a little too convenient and unrealistic, but overall the story was worth reading.
Marnie works at the BBC, assisting with programme production. Early in the story we hear that her Grandfather dies as a result of a bomb during the London Blitz. While sorting through the remains of his home, Marnie discovers a wireless radio transmitter and various code books. They remind her of the Morse code games that she used to play with her Grandfather when she was a child.
This discovery leads nicely into her encounter with a member of the Dutch resistance. Willem befriends Marnie and reveals that her Grandfather played a vital role in sending and receiving messages to a Dutch resistance cell. He proposes that Marnie takes over the role.
While part one of the book takes place in London, part two sees the action in Holland. Marnie’s contact goes silent and Willem gets an urgent message from home. Soon they are in the thick of resistance work and their lives are now in real danger.
The story hops back and forth between Marnie and her counterpart in Holland. I liked how this story featured the resistance in Holland, as opposed to the quantity of similar stories that are set in France. I also liked the parts about the BBC and Marnie’s work there. A few times I felt that events were a little too convenient and unrealistic, but overall the story was worth reading.
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