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Women of the Post
An emotional story, based on true events, about the all-Black battalion of the Women's Army Corps who found purpose, solidarity and lifelong friendship in their mission of sorting over one million pieces of mail for the US Army.
1944, New York City. Judy Washington is tired of working from dawn til dusk in the Bronx Slave Market, cleaning white women’s houses and barely making a dime. Her husband is fighting overseas, so it's up to Judy and her mother to make enough money for rent and food. When the chance arises for Judy to join the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) and the ability to bring home a steady paycheck, she jumps at the opportunity.
Immediately upon arrival, Judy undergoes grueling military drills and inspections led by Second Officer Charity Adams, one of the only Black officers in the WAC. Judy becomes fast friends with the other women in her unit—Stacy, Bernadette and Mary Alyce—who only discovered she was Black after joining the army. Under Charity Adams’s direction, they are transferred to Birmingham, England, as part of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion—the only unit of Black women to serve overseas in WWII. Here, they must sort a backlog of over one million pieces of mail.
The women work tirelessly, knowing that they're reuniting soldiers to their loved ones through the letters they write. However, their work becomes personal when Mary Alyce discovers a backlogged letter addressed to Judy that will upend her personal life. Told through the alternating perspectives of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce, Women of the Post is an unforgettable story of perseverance, female friendship, romance and self-discovery.
1944, New York City. Judy Washington is tired of working from dawn til dusk in the Bronx Slave Market, cleaning white women’s houses and barely making a dime. Her husband is fighting overseas, so it's up to Judy and her mother to make enough money for rent and food. When the chance arises for Judy to join the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) and the ability to bring home a steady paycheck, she jumps at the opportunity.
Immediately upon arrival, Judy undergoes grueling military drills and inspections led by Second Officer Charity Adams, one of the only Black officers in the WAC. Judy becomes fast friends with the other women in her unit—Stacy, Bernadette and Mary Alyce—who only discovered she was Black after joining the army. Under Charity Adams’s direction, they are transferred to Birmingham, England, as part of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion—the only unit of Black women to serve overseas in WWII. Here, they must sort a backlog of over one million pieces of mail.
The women work tirelessly, knowing that they're reuniting soldiers to their loved ones through the letters they write. However, their work becomes personal when Mary Alyce discovers a backlogged letter addressed to Judy that will upend her personal life. Told through the alternating perspectives of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce, Women of the Post is an unforgettable story of perseverance, female friendship, romance and self-discovery.
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2023
161 people are currently reading
7266 people want to read
About the author
Joshunda Sanders
12 books467 followersJoshunda Sanders is the author, most recently, of a debut novel forthcoming soon from Park Row Books, two children's books including I Can Write the World, the story of a budding journalist named Ava Murray. She also wrote The Beautiful Darkness: A Handbook for Orphans (2016) and How Racism and Sexism Killed Traditional Media: Why The Future of Journalism Depends on Women and People of Color (2015). A speechwriter and long-time book lover and critic, she has taught writing for the School of the New York Times Summer Academy, Lehman College, the New School, the University of Texas at Austin and various other institutions. She lives in The Bronx, her hometown.
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July 20, 2023
4.5⭐️
“Segregation in civilian life was still very much the law of the land, but the wartime needs in all areas of the military forced the government to admit that they would need to make some exceptions in order to win the war.”
In 1944, as WWII rages on, Judy Washington and her mother are struggling to make ends meet. Judy’s husband Herbert is off fighting the War, enlisting after the bombing of Pearl Harbor resulted in African American men being drafted into the Armed Services. However, correspondence and money from Herbert had been irregular, forcing Judy and her mother to join the Bronx Slave Market where Black women wait on street corners hoping to be employed for domestic services by White women in exchange for a pittance. With the men fighting the war, there was an opportunity for women to join the Woman’s Army Corps (WAC) and after the massive loss of lives in the D-Day Invasion, Allied soldiers from different branches including those handling the post were also called onto the front leading to short staffing and a lag in postal services thereby creating an opening for women, including Black women to join the war effort. Judy decides to enlist eventually becoming a part of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion or the Six Triple Eight Battalion as it was commonly referred to, led by Captain Charity Adams (one of the most high-ranking Black officers in the WAC). The Battalion included approximately 850 Black women who were tasked with sorting and redirecting a massive backlog of correspondence between soldiers and their loved ones back home.
“No mail, no morale. It will be our mantra.”
We also meet others from Judy’s Battalion including Stacy McFadden who hails from a farming family in Missouri, Bernadette Moore from Chicago and Mary Alyce Dixon from Vermont whose journey is made more difficult after a personal revelation leaves her shaken. The narrative follows these women over the next year and a half as they complete their training, cross the Atlantic and are eventually stationed in Birmingham, England till the end of the war. We bear witness to their personal struggles and aspirations, their camaraderie and how they become an integral part of one another’s support systems in difficult moments. The story is shared from the perspectives of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce for the most part and not only details the working of the Six Triple Eight Battalion but also paints a picture of the bigotry, segregation, sexism and discrimination not only in WWII era United States by also within Army ranks and also how their experiences outside their country allows them an opportunity to view life as Black women from a different perspective, which impacts the decisions they make in the aftermath of the war.
“Everything in America, in life, made it clear that remembering one’s place meant remembering your inferiority to anyone white. The signs, the looks, the treatment—what waited for her back home was now the inferior version of a run-down waiting room, a crowded hospital, a diner’s back entrance or a broken water fountain.”
The brilliant Author’s Note sheds light on the real events and people who inspired this novel while also detailing the facts and fictionalized elements that have been woven into the narrative.
Overall, I found Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders to be an impeccably researched, informative, insightful and engrossing read that highlights the contribution of African American women to the WWII effort. This is the first work of fiction where I have come across this aspect of the war effort and I commend the author for the beautiful way she has told this story. With its excellent writing, superb characterizations and a rare glimpse into a part of history that is rarely talked about, this is an exceptionally written novel that I would not hesitate to recommend to those who enjoy WWII fiction inspired by true events/people.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row Books for the digital review copy and a special thanks to the publisher for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 29, 2023
Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders was a very moving historical fiction debut novel. Joshunda Sanders wrote about aspects of World War II that I had no knowledge of before I read Women of the Post. It took place in New York, Vermont, Iowa, Birmingham, England and France during the later years of World War II. Women of the Post was told from the POV of three very brave and determined young women, Judy Washington, Charity Adams and Mary Alyce Dixon. Their stories and experiences were so inspirational and compelling. Each young woman came from a different background but they had one thing in common. They each played an important part in the success of the Six Triple Eight Postal Battalion. Their contributions and stand up attitudes were reflected in all the work they were able to accomplish. Their successful work ethics earned them proper recognition and acknowledgment from their superiors when all was said and done. Women of the Post was written as a tribute to the hundreds of Black women that served in the military during WWII.
Judy Washington grew up in the Bronx, a borough of New York City. In 1944, Judy found herself with her mother at “The Bronx Slave Market “. Her father had died and Judy hadn’t heard from her husband who was fighting overseas in months. Judy’s husband had been sending her letters as often as he could. He usually enclosed some of his pay from the army in his letters. The money that he sent helped her mother and herself pay the rent and made their lives a little easier. There had been no letters or money, though, in months. At “The Bronx Slave Market”, suburban white women drove by and looked for black women to clean their homes in exchange for very little compensation. Judy was fed up with working this way. The work was humiliating and the pay was so unfair. It was at “The Slave Market “ one day that Judy noticed a group of women that had gathered nearby. Charity Adams, a member of the Women’s Army Corps, had come to New York, to recruit other Black woman to join the WAC. Judy was impressed with the way Charity spoke about her experiences in the WAC so far and was drawn to the opportunity of joining the WAC. She took the papers from Charity. There was something about Judy that impressed Charity as well. Charity encouraged Judy to sign up and mention that she had recommended Judy. The next thing Judy knew, a letter of acceptance arrived at her home and she was on her way to Iowa.
Judy traveled by train to Fort Des Moines in Iowa. She reported for the six weeks of basic training in the WAC. The women were told that if they did not pass basic training they would be sent home. Judy could not handle not succeeding. She just had to pass. There was no alternative. Fort Des Moines was completely segregated. The white women trained, ate and slept with the other white women at the Fort. Black women did the same with their own kind. At basic training, Judy was grouped with women who would become her best friends throughout the war. Stacey was from a farm in Missouri and Bernadette was from Chicago. Bernadette’s family owned a hair salon in Chicago. Their superior was no other than Charity Adams who was now a Second Officer. The drills and training in basic training were difficult and strenuous but all three women passed. Now they anxiously awaited their orders for what they would do next.
Some of the white women had already received orders that they were being sent to Northern Africa. Mary Alyce Dixon was one of those women. She had come to training camp with her two best friends from her small hometown in Vermont. One afternoon, Mary Alyce was told to report to the Colored regiment immediately. Why was she being told to go to the Colored camp? Whites and Coloreds did not mix. There had to be a misunderstanding. Mary Alyce was soon to learn that her biological father had been Colored. He died before she was born. Mary Alyce never knew him and her mother never spoke about him to her. On her birth certificate, though, as clear as day, her father was identified as Colored. That made Mary Alyce Colored. She had always lived in the world of white people but here she was living and working with Company B, the Colored regiment. Mary Alyce would have to learn how to adapt to her new circumstances or go home. Her friends from home wanted nothing to do with her. Could Mary Alyce find friendship with Judy, Stacy and Bernadette?
A few weeks later, Charity learned that she had been promoted to Major and asked to lead the women in her company to Europe. Major Adams and her troops were going to Birmingham, England to sort through more than a million pieces of mail and packages. She had six weeks to complete this mission. That was when the Six Triple Eight Central Postal Battalion was formed. It was the singular “self-contained unit of Negro women serving in the war.” Major Adams explained to the women in her Company, “Our task is to reunite soldiers at war with their families through this small but significant gesture.” The mantra of the Six Triple Eight Central Postal Battalion became, “No mail, No Morale.” The trip to Birmingham, England was not without incident but they finally arrived. The women of 6888 Central Postal Battalion would live and work at King Edwards School. Abby Campbell accepted Charity’s request to become her second in command. She organized the women and made a schedule for them that allowed them to work in shifts. There were three shifts each day and they worked six days a week. Somehow, some way, they would sort the mail and get it delivered. They were determined to succeed. Would Major Charity Adams be able to lead her battalion to accomplish this monumental task? Would these brave, resilient, resourceful and determined Colored women of the 6888 set the path for future Colored women?
I learned so much from reading Joshunda Sanders’s Women of the Post. Before reading this book, I had never heard of the Bronx Slave Market. The name alone made me feel embarrassed that this even existed. It was just so sad how these desperate Black women had to humble themselves to these greedy and uncaring white women in order to make a little for a grueling day of hard and exhausting work. I was so glad to learn that the Bronx Slave Market soon was prohibited by the law. New laws made it easier for black women to secure all types of jobs with decent and fair wages. They no longer were forced to only clean houses for practically nothing in return. I had never heard of any of the endeavors or accomplishments of the 6888 Central Postal Battalion either. Even when faced with skepticism, downright hostility, racism and even sexism, this strong group of women persevered and embraced their challenges head on. These women deserve to be recognized and should be applauded for all their hard work, dedication and accomplishments. Women of the Post was about friendship, supporting each other, the sisterhood that the women formed, prevailing through racism and sexism, romance and acceptance. It was so well written and researched. Joshunda Sanders’s author’s note at the conclusion of the book was very informative. Since Women of the Post was based on true events and included some real people, she clarified what was real and what was fiction in her author’s notes. I really enjoyed reading Women of the Post and highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction. I look forward to seeing what Joshunda Sanders writes next.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for allowing me to read Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Judy Washington grew up in the Bronx, a borough of New York City. In 1944, Judy found herself with her mother at “The Bronx Slave Market “. Her father had died and Judy hadn’t heard from her husband who was fighting overseas in months. Judy’s husband had been sending her letters as often as he could. He usually enclosed some of his pay from the army in his letters. The money that he sent helped her mother and herself pay the rent and made their lives a little easier. There had been no letters or money, though, in months. At “The Bronx Slave Market”, suburban white women drove by and looked for black women to clean their homes in exchange for very little compensation. Judy was fed up with working this way. The work was humiliating and the pay was so unfair. It was at “The Slave Market “ one day that Judy noticed a group of women that had gathered nearby. Charity Adams, a member of the Women’s Army Corps, had come to New York, to recruit other Black woman to join the WAC. Judy was impressed with the way Charity spoke about her experiences in the WAC so far and was drawn to the opportunity of joining the WAC. She took the papers from Charity. There was something about Judy that impressed Charity as well. Charity encouraged Judy to sign up and mention that she had recommended Judy. The next thing Judy knew, a letter of acceptance arrived at her home and she was on her way to Iowa.
Judy traveled by train to Fort Des Moines in Iowa. She reported for the six weeks of basic training in the WAC. The women were told that if they did not pass basic training they would be sent home. Judy could not handle not succeeding. She just had to pass. There was no alternative. Fort Des Moines was completely segregated. The white women trained, ate and slept with the other white women at the Fort. Black women did the same with their own kind. At basic training, Judy was grouped with women who would become her best friends throughout the war. Stacey was from a farm in Missouri and Bernadette was from Chicago. Bernadette’s family owned a hair salon in Chicago. Their superior was no other than Charity Adams who was now a Second Officer. The drills and training in basic training were difficult and strenuous but all three women passed. Now they anxiously awaited their orders for what they would do next.
Some of the white women had already received orders that they were being sent to Northern Africa. Mary Alyce Dixon was one of those women. She had come to training camp with her two best friends from her small hometown in Vermont. One afternoon, Mary Alyce was told to report to the Colored regiment immediately. Why was she being told to go to the Colored camp? Whites and Coloreds did not mix. There had to be a misunderstanding. Mary Alyce was soon to learn that her biological father had been Colored. He died before she was born. Mary Alyce never knew him and her mother never spoke about him to her. On her birth certificate, though, as clear as day, her father was identified as Colored. That made Mary Alyce Colored. She had always lived in the world of white people but here she was living and working with Company B, the Colored regiment. Mary Alyce would have to learn how to adapt to her new circumstances or go home. Her friends from home wanted nothing to do with her. Could Mary Alyce find friendship with Judy, Stacy and Bernadette?
A few weeks later, Charity learned that she had been promoted to Major and asked to lead the women in her company to Europe. Major Adams and her troops were going to Birmingham, England to sort through more than a million pieces of mail and packages. She had six weeks to complete this mission. That was when the Six Triple Eight Central Postal Battalion was formed. It was the singular “self-contained unit of Negro women serving in the war.” Major Adams explained to the women in her Company, “Our task is to reunite soldiers at war with their families through this small but significant gesture.” The mantra of the Six Triple Eight Central Postal Battalion became, “No mail, No Morale.” The trip to Birmingham, England was not without incident but they finally arrived. The women of 6888 Central Postal Battalion would live and work at King Edwards School. Abby Campbell accepted Charity’s request to become her second in command. She organized the women and made a schedule for them that allowed them to work in shifts. There were three shifts each day and they worked six days a week. Somehow, some way, they would sort the mail and get it delivered. They were determined to succeed. Would Major Charity Adams be able to lead her battalion to accomplish this monumental task? Would these brave, resilient, resourceful and determined Colored women of the 6888 set the path for future Colored women?
I learned so much from reading Joshunda Sanders’s Women of the Post. Before reading this book, I had never heard of the Bronx Slave Market. The name alone made me feel embarrassed that this even existed. It was just so sad how these desperate Black women had to humble themselves to these greedy and uncaring white women in order to make a little for a grueling day of hard and exhausting work. I was so glad to learn that the Bronx Slave Market soon was prohibited by the law. New laws made it easier for black women to secure all types of jobs with decent and fair wages. They no longer were forced to only clean houses for practically nothing in return. I had never heard of any of the endeavors or accomplishments of the 6888 Central Postal Battalion either. Even when faced with skepticism, downright hostility, racism and even sexism, this strong group of women persevered and embraced their challenges head on. These women deserve to be recognized and should be applauded for all their hard work, dedication and accomplishments. Women of the Post was about friendship, supporting each other, the sisterhood that the women formed, prevailing through racism and sexism, romance and acceptance. It was so well written and researched. Joshunda Sanders’s author’s note at the conclusion of the book was very informative. Since Women of the Post was based on true events and included some real people, she clarified what was real and what was fiction in her author’s notes. I really enjoyed reading Women of the Post and highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction. I look forward to seeing what Joshunda Sanders writes next.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for allowing me to read Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 9, 2023
In 1944, the Bronx, New York City, Judy Washington is sick of the way she and her mother have been forced to live, they struggle to pay their rent and every day they have look for work. Early in the morning they join the crowd of desperate coloured women at the “Bronx slave Market” hoping a white woman will select one of them to clean her house and for a pittance. Judy’s husband Herbert is fighting overseas, she hasn't heard from him in months, or been sent any money and she’s had enough.
Judy joins the Women’s Army Corps or the WAC, she does six weeks of basic training at Fort Des Moines, Iowa and in charge is Second Officer Charity Adams and she's one of a handful of coloured female officers in the American army.
Judy becomes friendly with other women in her unit, Stacy, Bernadette and Mary Alyce who only found out she was coloured after she joined the army and it was a huge shock. The women are from Missouri, Chicago, Vermont, and the South. After finishing basic training the recruits are keen to find out where they will be sent, the only issue is the army has no idea what to do with it's coloured female members and eventually they decided to send them to Birmingham, England.
Here, there's a back log of mail, it’s stored in an abandoned school, and it needs to be sorted, prioritized and forwarded on to be checked again by the censors. The army knows the importance of mail to it’s serving members and no mail means low morale amongst the troops.
The women are part of the 6888th Central postal Battalion, the only unit of coloured women to serve overseas during the Second World War. The ladies work hard and in cold conditions, three shifts and six days a week, and they sort over 65,000 letters and packages a day. Many have been stored for so long, the envelopes are open, or have been damaged along with the addresses and it's like solving a huge puzzle.
I received a digital copy of Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders from Edelweiss and HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Sanders did extensive research into the all coloured female battalion of the Women’s Army Corps and read a memoir written by a veteran of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion and combined it provided the inspiration for her own fascinating novel.
A story told from the points of view of the three main characters, Judy, Charity and Alyce, three coloured women who wanted more, a break from cultural, social, racial, economic and sexist restrictions. They formed a sisterhood and life long friendships, with solidarity and support, and they faced racism, with resilience, grit, dignity, perseverance, and integrity. Five stars from me, a narrative with a strong emphasis on self discovery, doing the unexpected and testing the boundaries at the time.
Judy joins the Women’s Army Corps or the WAC, she does six weeks of basic training at Fort Des Moines, Iowa and in charge is Second Officer Charity Adams and she's one of a handful of coloured female officers in the American army.
Judy becomes friendly with other women in her unit, Stacy, Bernadette and Mary Alyce who only found out she was coloured after she joined the army and it was a huge shock. The women are from Missouri, Chicago, Vermont, and the South. After finishing basic training the recruits are keen to find out where they will be sent, the only issue is the army has no idea what to do with it's coloured female members and eventually they decided to send them to Birmingham, England.
Here, there's a back log of mail, it’s stored in an abandoned school, and it needs to be sorted, prioritized and forwarded on to be checked again by the censors. The army knows the importance of mail to it’s serving members and no mail means low morale amongst the troops.
The women are part of the 6888th Central postal Battalion, the only unit of coloured women to serve overseas during the Second World War. The ladies work hard and in cold conditions, three shifts and six days a week, and they sort over 65,000 letters and packages a day. Many have been stored for so long, the envelopes are open, or have been damaged along with the addresses and it's like solving a huge puzzle.
I received a digital copy of Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders from Edelweiss and HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Sanders did extensive research into the all coloured female battalion of the Women’s Army Corps and read a memoir written by a veteran of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion and combined it provided the inspiration for her own fascinating novel.
A story told from the points of view of the three main characters, Judy, Charity and Alyce, three coloured women who wanted more, a break from cultural, social, racial, economic and sexist restrictions. They formed a sisterhood and life long friendships, with solidarity and support, and they faced racism, with resilience, grit, dignity, perseverance, and integrity. Five stars from me, a narrative with a strong emphasis on self discovery, doing the unexpected and testing the boundaries at the time.
July 20, 2023
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WOMEN OF THE POST by Joshunda Sanders is an emotionally charged historical fiction based on the true story of the WAC 6888th Central Postal Battalion during WWII. This was the first all-Black, all female Army battalion formed and sent overseas to England to expedite the backlog of wartime mail delivery to the troops.
This novel features several black women’s lives beginning in 1944, but the main protagonist is Judy Washington. She lives with her mother in the Bronx and seeks daily work on the Bronx Slave Market cleaning houses for white women for barely any money. One day Judy is approached by an impressive Black woman in uniform and informed about the Army WAC program. She joins not only to send real money home to her mother, but also to hopefully discover what happened to her husband who went to war, but she has not heard from in several months.
The story follows Judy into the Army and introduces her to lifelong friends as they all are on the path of self-discovery. Besides Judy, you are introduced to Stacy, who is big and built strong who works the family farm in Missouri, Bernadette, who works with her mother in a beauty salon in Chicago, and Mary Alyce who discovers her father was a black man after joining the Army and being raised white. There is also a sub-plot intertwined throughout about the two commanding officers of the Battalion and their love for each other.
There is so much beauty and dignity in the portrayal of these women as they face prejudice and discrimination, not only in the South, but everywhere. I read so much about WWII and yet I had never heard of these women and their service. I am so glad I know about them now.
This is a captivating and memorable historical fiction novel that I highly recommend!
WOMEN OF THE POST by Joshunda Sanders is an emotionally charged historical fiction based on the true story of the WAC 6888th Central Postal Battalion during WWII. This was the first all-Black, all female Army battalion formed and sent overseas to England to expedite the backlog of wartime mail delivery to the troops.
This novel features several black women’s lives beginning in 1944, but the main protagonist is Judy Washington. She lives with her mother in the Bronx and seeks daily work on the Bronx Slave Market cleaning houses for white women for barely any money. One day Judy is approached by an impressive Black woman in uniform and informed about the Army WAC program. She joins not only to send real money home to her mother, but also to hopefully discover what happened to her husband who went to war, but she has not heard from in several months.
The story follows Judy into the Army and introduces her to lifelong friends as they all are on the path of self-discovery. Besides Judy, you are introduced to Stacy, who is big and built strong who works the family farm in Missouri, Bernadette, who works with her mother in a beauty salon in Chicago, and Mary Alyce who discovers her father was a black man after joining the Army and being raised white. There is also a sub-plot intertwined throughout about the two commanding officers of the Battalion and their love for each other.
There is so much beauty and dignity in the portrayal of these women as they face prejudice and discrimination, not only in the South, but everywhere. I read so much about WWII and yet I had never heard of these women and their service. I am so glad I know about them now.
This is a captivating and memorable historical fiction novel that I highly recommend!
July 29, 2023
4.5⭐️ I love reading WWII stories about how each and every person contributed to the war efforts in whatever way they could. This is a very important story about the all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps who contributed both at home and oversees, helping to ensure soldiers and their loved ones received their letters.
While there are a couple of romances woven in, the focus here is on the significant friendships they formed during this time as well as on the racism and discrimination they faced even while serving their country. A slow burn story, and not one you can binge, but one that will move you and leave you thinking about these characters long after you finish.
Thank you HTP Books, Graydon House and Harper Audio for the gifted copies.
While there are a couple of romances woven in, the focus here is on the significant friendships they formed during this time as well as on the racism and discrimination they faced even while serving their country. A slow burn story, and not one you can binge, but one that will move you and leave you thinking about these characters long after you finish.
Thank you HTP Books, Graydon House and Harper Audio for the gifted copies.
May 9, 2023
Joshunda Sanders your book taught me so much about Black women in the Army. Charity Adams was the highest ranking Black woman in the army. Adams sorted mail in Europe during the war. It covered apart of WW2 history I never knew about, the Women's Auxiliary Army Corps. It was fast paced and kept my interest. It was nice to gain knowledge about this corner of history and the real people that lived through this historical fiction novel. I highly recommend. A very interesting book that you will want to keep reading.
January 8, 2025
“Clearly, they would not defy the God of their bigotry, even abroad.”
“Allowed but maybe not welcome.”
Women were needed during World War II, and thus the Six Triple Eight Battalion was formed. Coming from different backgrounds, including the Bronx Slave Market, something I had never heard of prior to reading this book, women were joining the Army. The Black women in this story were Judy Washington, Charity Adams and Mary Alyce, among others. These Black women, and many others, joined the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). From making maybe $.50 for eight hours of work to $50 a month was a great opportunity.
Judy joined with hopes of growing closer with hopes of finding her husband, who had also joined the Army, and whom she has not heard from for quite some time. The other women had their reasons for joining. Mary Alyce’s story was quite compelling, because it wasn’t until joining the WAC that she saw her birth certificate for the first time, and she found herself segregated with the Black women that had joined. All her life, she thought she was white and having never met her father there was a huge piece of her life that she was unaware of. This gave her problems, but also a new perspective while she served in the military. There were also Bernadette and Stacy and the book shows how these women fared during their service.
I found this book to be quite compelling, and I love that it was told from the points of view of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce. This made this story even more captivating. These women were very strong and faced many challenges, and the work that they did was very important, even though they served in the background. Not only was this an excellent book, but Joshunda Sanders also did extensive research in order to write this fabulous book.
Many thanks to Park Row and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
“Allowed but maybe not welcome.”
Women were needed during World War II, and thus the Six Triple Eight Battalion was formed. Coming from different backgrounds, including the Bronx Slave Market, something I had never heard of prior to reading this book, women were joining the Army. The Black women in this story were Judy Washington, Charity Adams and Mary Alyce, among others. These Black women, and many others, joined the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). From making maybe $.50 for eight hours of work to $50 a month was a great opportunity.
Judy joined with hopes of growing closer with hopes of finding her husband, who had also joined the Army, and whom she has not heard from for quite some time. The other women had their reasons for joining. Mary Alyce’s story was quite compelling, because it wasn’t until joining the WAC that she saw her birth certificate for the first time, and she found herself segregated with the Black women that had joined. All her life, she thought she was white and having never met her father there was a huge piece of her life that she was unaware of. This gave her problems, but also a new perspective while she served in the military. There were also Bernadette and Stacy and the book shows how these women fared during their service.
I found this book to be quite compelling, and I love that it was told from the points of view of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce. This made this story even more captivating. These women were very strong and faced many challenges, and the work that they did was very important, even though they served in the background. Not only was this an excellent book, but Joshunda Sanders also did extensive research in order to write this fabulous book.
Many thanks to Park Row and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
July 18, 2023
Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders is an excellent WWII era historical fiction that gives a glimpse of dome amazing real women.
I absolutely love that this based on true events and women that were true trailblazers. Reading about these stunning and brave women that signed up and served overseas as part of the 6888 Central Postal Battalion (all-Black battalion )of the Women’s Army Corps in WWII, I was just beyond impressed at their fortitude, strength, and courage.
Lieutenant Colonel Charity Edna Adams Earley was an amazing woman. Being able to read about this fictionalized account if her role and life, and also what she fought for before, during, and then leading go research to see after the war, is something that will stay with me for a long time. The treatment of women, of African American women especially, before the war in our own country, and then during the war is nothing short if shameful. However, these women fought that suppression where they could and brought to light that everyone, no matter where they are from, their physical appearance, or “how much money they have” should be treated and loved any different from anyone else. I like to think that we are all in this together, so why should we not join forces for the greatest good?
I also liked how the book was told in the alternating voices of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce…as it gave a well-rounded account overall of the narrative and kept things fresh, intriguing, and entertaining as well. The author’s note at the end helped give me insight in her research, passion, immense intellect, and what was true vs what had to be artfully created and flexed to present the wonderful book that I had just finished reading. Just wonderful.
I highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you EW Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row 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 7/18/23.
I absolutely love that this based on true events and women that were true trailblazers. Reading about these stunning and brave women that signed up and served overseas as part of the 6888 Central Postal Battalion (all-Black battalion )of the Women’s Army Corps in WWII, I was just beyond impressed at their fortitude, strength, and courage.
Lieutenant Colonel Charity Edna Adams Earley was an amazing woman. Being able to read about this fictionalized account if her role and life, and also what she fought for before, during, and then leading go research to see after the war, is something that will stay with me for a long time. The treatment of women, of African American women especially, before the war in our own country, and then during the war is nothing short if shameful. However, these women fought that suppression where they could and brought to light that everyone, no matter where they are from, their physical appearance, or “how much money they have” should be treated and loved any different from anyone else. I like to think that we are all in this together, so why should we not join forces for the greatest good?
I also liked how the book was told in the alternating voices of Judy, Charity and Mary Alyce…as it gave a well-rounded account overall of the narrative and kept things fresh, intriguing, and entertaining as well. The author’s note at the end helped give me insight in her research, passion, immense intellect, and what was true vs what had to be artfully created and flexed to present the wonderful book that I had just finished reading. Just wonderful.
I highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you EW Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row 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 7/18/23.
August 12, 2023
I was really conflicted about this one.
For the positive, I’ve read about the 6888th before and was looking forward to fleshing out more of the history and little-told story of Black women serving in WW2. This book did that well, explaining a little more detail of the history than what I read before, and gave a really good look at the racism these women sadly faced. I think I would find it really hard to come back to the US after seeing such a lack of segregation and a lesser amount of racism overseas, but it’s commendable the way so many of those black women and men who came back used their experiences to push forward the Civil Rights Movement. The Bronx Slave Market was a new piece of information to me as well, and as awful as it was, I am glad to have learned of it.
I also enjoyed the look at female friendship the women in their battalion had, and it was portrayed well. Always a favorite focal point for me.
What I did not care for, was first, some of the writing style being very narrative, and at times, almost like a documentary or non-fiction book. I get that the author was trying to convey a lot of history as well as a fictional story, but it felt a bit dry or slow at times.
Mostly though, I was really annoyed at the change of Charity Adams’ - who was a very real person - character being fictionalized as a lesbian when she was not. And not just mentioned here and there as a gay person, but most of the Charity POV was primarily focused on her feelings for her friend/love interest. It’s a fictional book - it doesn’t make any sense to alter a *real* person like that just to introduce a gay perspective when there were plenty of fully fictional characters at the author’s disposal if that’s what she wanted to do, as stated in her Author’s Note. If you wouldn’t change a real historical person’s race, nationality, or gender, why would you change her sexual orientation for no real reason? It felt sensationalized, false and wrong to her memory to change her on a whim and with that much focused content if that’s not who she was.
For the positive, I’ve read about the 6888th before and was looking forward to fleshing out more of the history and little-told story of Black women serving in WW2. This book did that well, explaining a little more detail of the history than what I read before, and gave a really good look at the racism these women sadly faced. I think I would find it really hard to come back to the US after seeing such a lack of segregation and a lesser amount of racism overseas, but it’s commendable the way so many of those black women and men who came back used their experiences to push forward the Civil Rights Movement. The Bronx Slave Market was a new piece of information to me as well, and as awful as it was, I am glad to have learned of it.
I also enjoyed the look at female friendship the women in their battalion had, and it was portrayed well. Always a favorite focal point for me.
What I did not care for, was first, some of the writing style being very narrative, and at times, almost like a documentary or non-fiction book. I get that the author was trying to convey a lot of history as well as a fictional story, but it felt a bit dry or slow at times.
Mostly though, I was really annoyed at the change of Charity Adams’ - who was a very real person - character being fictionalized as a lesbian when she was not. And not just mentioned here and there as a gay person, but most of the Charity POV was primarily focused on her feelings for her friend/love interest. It’s a fictional book - it doesn’t make any sense to alter a *real* person like that just to introduce a gay perspective when there were plenty of fully fictional characters at the author’s disposal if that’s what she wanted to do, as stated in her Author’s Note. If you wouldn’t change a real historical person’s race, nationality, or gender, why would you change her sexual orientation for no real reason? It felt sensationalized, false and wrong to her memory to change her on a whim and with that much focused content if that’s not who she was.
April 17, 2023
4.5⭐️Women of the Post is the first book I read that focuses solely on Black women’s contributions during WWII, and I was fascinated by all that I learned. The story alternates between the perspectives of three women part of the all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps and the first ever to be sent oversees to help with the war effort. Their job, which aligns with the title, was to sort through over one million pieces of backlogged mail, so soldiers and families can communicate and reunite. At times it’s easy to forget about all the small roles that made a huge difference, as many WWII books I read center in on those in combat, the resistance or intelligence. And just seeing the process of how these women sorted through all the mail and thoroughly reviewed the content made me greatly appreciate what they did!
Even more than that, this was a story of female friendship, love and belonging. I loved how the three narratives were woven together and how each women discovered a little bit more about themselves after singing up and working in the army. Plus, there were letter correspondences throughout the book detailing messages between the protagonists and their families that gave more insight into life during the war, both at home and in Europe, and further explained how these characters upbringings shaped their later experiences.
Overall, this was a powerful and strong debut that I cannot wait to recommend to readers who love fast-paced WWII historical fiction.
Thank you HTP and Park Row for the ARC!I
Even more than that, this was a story of female friendship, love and belonging. I loved how the three narratives were woven together and how each women discovered a little bit more about themselves after singing up and working in the army. Plus, there were letter correspondences throughout the book detailing messages between the protagonists and their families that gave more insight into life during the war, both at home and in Europe, and further explained how these characters upbringings shaped their later experiences.
Overall, this was a powerful and strong debut that I cannot wait to recommend to readers who love fast-paced WWII historical fiction.
Thank you HTP and Park Row for the ARC!I
August 2, 2023
The story was good. The accuracy was off particularly because the author was writing about real people. I didn't like the direction of Charity Adams. She was a real living person who got married and had a family. The author chose to portray her as gay. I understand that this is historical fiction but when writing about real historical people, in my opinion, authors shouldn't take license to change their story to address an issue that the author feels should be addressed. In that case, create a fictitious character and address it that way.
Books are powerful mediums. For me after reading historical fiction, I look up events and people and expand my knowledge. I was aware of Charity Adams from another book and was bothered seeing the direction that the author went with Charity Adams.
Books are powerful mediums. For me after reading historical fiction, I look up events and people and expand my knowledge. I was aware of Charity Adams from another book and was bothered seeing the direction that the author went with Charity Adams.
July 17, 2023
"Everything in America, in life, made it clear that remembering one's place meant remembering your inferiority to anyone white."
"To be a Negro woman meant to cloak your true feelings behind a mask of pleasant, polite acceptance because no one cared if you felt otherwise."
Women of the post is a powerful, gripping, heartfelt and moving historical fiction novel about an all-Black Women's Battalion called the Six triple eight. The battalion was led by the first Black Woman Officer in the Women's Army Corps, Charity Adams. They sorted the postal mail and served during the World War II. Sanders highlights the resilience, courage and strength of Judy, Charity, Bernadette and Mary Alyce. It begins with a letter to a local newspaper written by Judy, she mentions that Black Women are being left out in the discussion of Black and Women's rights. Women of the post is about friendship, sisterhood, and self-discovery.
Thank you Hear our voices book tours and Joshunda Sanders for this important book. Women of the post comes out tomorrow, July 18.
"To be a Negro woman meant to cloak your true feelings behind a mask of pleasant, polite acceptance because no one cared if you felt otherwise."
Women of the post is a powerful, gripping, heartfelt and moving historical fiction novel about an all-Black Women's Battalion called the Six triple eight. The battalion was led by the first Black Woman Officer in the Women's Army Corps, Charity Adams. They sorted the postal mail and served during the World War II. Sanders highlights the resilience, courage and strength of Judy, Charity, Bernadette and Mary Alyce. It begins with a letter to a local newspaper written by Judy, she mentions that Black Women are being left out in the discussion of Black and Women's rights. Women of the post is about friendship, sisterhood, and self-discovery.
Thank you Hear our voices book tours and Joshunda Sanders for this important book. Women of the post comes out tomorrow, July 18.
August 9, 2023
In 1944, Judy Washington and her mother go most mornings to the corner referred to as the Bronx Slave Market, where Black women line up to be hired by white women to clean for very low pay. Judy tires of the exploitation, and decides to enlist in the WACs, despite her mother's objections. Judy meets several new friends in training: Stacey, Mary Alyce, Bernie, and their CO, Charity; they are assigned to the 6888 Battalion to sort mail in England, the only Black women serving abroad. The history was fascinating and well researched, and the characters really came alive. This is easily one of the best books I've read this year, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading well researched and well written historical fiction.
July 14, 2023
After reading this title, I am left thinking about whether or not a story really needs a climax because nothing really happened in this story.
Thematically, it has the potential to be a great story because it follows how an all Negro woman battalion help sort mail to increase morale during World War 2. Topics discussed include sexuality, racism, passing, and sisterhood. The historical piece is the most exciting because it really situates the story.
However, I got really bored towards the end. I no longer really cared for the characters or the story. Fortunately the pace was great so that it was a simple read. I do believe that this would be a great movie or series.
Thematically, it has the potential to be a great story because it follows how an all Negro woman battalion help sort mail to increase morale during World War 2. Topics discussed include sexuality, racism, passing, and sisterhood. The historical piece is the most exciting because it really situates the story.
However, I got really bored towards the end. I no longer really cared for the characters or the story. Fortunately the pace was great so that it was a simple read. I do believe that this would be a great movie or series.
July 25, 2023
Inspired by true events, The Women of the Post is the story of the all-Black Women’s Army Corps Battalion which sorted over one million pieces of mail for the U.S. Army during WW11.
Judy Washington works from dawn til dusk in the Bronx Slave Market. She jumps at the chance to join the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) when the opportunity presents itself. Judy makes friends with other women in the unit which is under the leadership of Second Officer Charity Adams, one of the only Black officers in the WAC. They are transferred to Birmingham, England as part of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion also known as the “six triple eight” (the only unit of Black women to serve overseas). The women work tirelessly to reunite soldiers with their loved ones through the letters they write.
This story of friendship and women supporting women is told from three perspectives: Judy, Charity, and Mary Alyce. (Charity and Mary Alyce are based on real individuals) Each POV is engaging and informative.
I love the untold stories that historical fiction provides! Of course, it always sends me down a Google rabbit hole of research. It’s easy to find pictures and info about this battalion.
In addition to the historical context, I also love the themes of perseverance, determination, problem-solving, friendship, breaking barriers, and women supporting women. More difficult to read about but just as thought-provoking are the instances of racism and prejudice.
Part of the FUN of reading is when books talk to each other! In other words, you might read several books in a month that all have the same theme or same location or the same historical event. Sometimes, when reading histfic, I wonder to myself if a certain character in my current book knows of other characters in related books! Am I the only one who does this?
Well, just before reading Women of the Post I read The First Ladies which features Mary McLeod Bethune. What literary fun to have Bethune mentioned in Women of the Post. I thought Hey, I know her! The Black women in the 6888th Battalion were able to serve because of Bethune’s activism.
As is sometimes the case, my Google research leads to questions that affect my reading experience. Charity Adams is a real person who in real life marries a man and has children after her years of military service. In Women of the Post, the author portrays her as gay. In her author notes, Sanders mentions this and indicates that this part of her portrayal isn’t reality. She continues to explain that she wanted to incorporate this aspect of life that was probably a real occurrence among some women who served. I completely understand and appreciate her intentions, but I wish that the author had portrayed this using a fictional character.
I recommend Women of the Post for fans of engaging historical fiction and for readers who appreciate thoughtful stories of real women who served their country and broke barriers. Book clubs might enjoy thoughtful discussion possibilities.
Thanks #NetGalley @HTP_Books @ParkRowBooks for a complimentary e ARC of #WomenOfThePost upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
Judy Washington works from dawn til dusk in the Bronx Slave Market. She jumps at the chance to join the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) when the opportunity presents itself. Judy makes friends with other women in the unit which is under the leadership of Second Officer Charity Adams, one of the only Black officers in the WAC. They are transferred to Birmingham, England as part of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion also known as the “six triple eight” (the only unit of Black women to serve overseas). The women work tirelessly to reunite soldiers with their loved ones through the letters they write.
This story of friendship and women supporting women is told from three perspectives: Judy, Charity, and Mary Alyce. (Charity and Mary Alyce are based on real individuals) Each POV is engaging and informative.
I love the untold stories that historical fiction provides! Of course, it always sends me down a Google rabbit hole of research. It’s easy to find pictures and info about this battalion.
In addition to the historical context, I also love the themes of perseverance, determination, problem-solving, friendship, breaking barriers, and women supporting women. More difficult to read about but just as thought-provoking are the instances of racism and prejudice.
Part of the FUN of reading is when books talk to each other! In other words, you might read several books in a month that all have the same theme or same location or the same historical event. Sometimes, when reading histfic, I wonder to myself if a certain character in my current book knows of other characters in related books! Am I the only one who does this?
Well, just before reading Women of the Post I read The First Ladies which features Mary McLeod Bethune. What literary fun to have Bethune mentioned in Women of the Post. I thought Hey, I know her! The Black women in the 6888th Battalion were able to serve because of Bethune’s activism.
As is sometimes the case, my Google research leads to questions that affect my reading experience. Charity Adams is a real person who in real life marries a man and has children after her years of military service. In Women of the Post, the author portrays her as gay. In her author notes, Sanders mentions this and indicates that this part of her portrayal isn’t reality. She continues to explain that she wanted to incorporate this aspect of life that was probably a real occurrence among some women who served. I completely understand and appreciate her intentions, but I wish that the author had portrayed this using a fictional character.
I recommend Women of the Post for fans of engaging historical fiction and for readers who appreciate thoughtful stories of real women who served their country and broke barriers. Book clubs might enjoy thoughtful discussion possibilities.
Thanks #NetGalley @HTP_Books @ParkRowBooks for a complimentary e ARC of #WomenOfThePost upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
January 9, 2026
Overall, this book was interesting and I’ll rate it a 3.5. The book follows three women during World War II, who get involved in the war effort, ensuring that soldier’s mail moved through the system. One squad was captained by a black woman, who was the highest ranked female in the army. Based upon the same story as the Netflix film The Six Triple Eight, the book provides some additional detail. The characters were likable, but I would have expected more history. As an avid historical fiction reader, I expect some consolidation of minor characters, some movement of important events and their dates, etc., but in this book, the author chooses to create a relationship between the two highest ranked female leaders that historically did not exist, and there’s no evidence to indicate otherwise. It’s always more enjoyable to read historical fiction when you know the author is trying to be true to the characters and the time that they lived in.
July 6, 2023
Women of the Post is a well-researched, eye opening story of Black women who enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps during World War II. The women want to make a difference and to find opportunities that are otherwise not available to them. The women featured in the book come from various backgrounds and experiences. They form friendships and explore what they can do after the war when they return home, back to Jim Crow. Based on real women, this book is a keeper. I will add this to my high school library to enlighten the students and introduce them to the little known facts of the Black experience in the military both on the battlefield and upon their return home.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2024
It's truly sad that as students in our public schools, we're not learning our full American history. This story is well-written and extremely informative.
May 19, 2025
Having seen the excellent movie “The 6888”, I was very interested in reading “The Women of the Post”. A historical fiction novel that tells the story of the experience of the only battalion of black women WACs during WWII. Led by Charity Adams and Abbie Campbell who were actual officers of the 6888, we follow four fictional characters as they perform a monumental task of sorting warehouses filled with undeliverable mail. I found the book interesting as the women each confront the realties of being black even while serving their country overseas. The author’s notes at the end told how many of the events in the book actually happened. This was a 3.5 rounded up to a 4.
April 8, 2025
The subject of this book, the 6888th Central Postal Battalion of the Women’s Army Corp, was of great interest to me and it was brought to life here through both real-life women as well as fictional characters. I also liked the epistolary portions that enabled the author to expand on lesser known historical aspects in US history like the “slave markets” in NYC or Marian Anderson, who was later the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1963. As well this format allowed the inclusion of how Jim Crow in the US continued “back home” while Black Americans fought, and died, overseas for their country. Having said all of that there were too many problems with this book for me to give it more than a 3 star rating. Syntax problems that included confusion of sentence subjects as well as issues with punctuation (or lack thereof) and just plain awkward wording were too numerous for me to overlook. Whether this can be attributed solely to the author or to poor editing I am not sure. I also took issue with PFCs being continually referred to as officers. In addition I did not like the author’s choice to create a lesbian relationship between Charity and Abbie for the simple fact that they were not fictional characters and that is a big change to make for real life people. Had she chosen to create such a relationship between fictional characters I would have had no problem with it. But as I stated initially, a very interesting and important part of both American and WWII history in general.
December 22, 2022
I adored this book! It covered apart of WW2 history I never learned, the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps. Specifically this novel highlights the contributions of the all black 6888th Battalion led by Charity Adams who sorted mail in Europe during the war. Adams was the highest ranking Black woman in the Army by the end of the war and completed the important “low mail, low morale” mission. I loved learning about this corner of history and the real people that lived through this historical fiction novel. It was fast paced, engaging and I always love when I end a book with new knowledge!
Want to read
May 19, 2023Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders - Powerful, strength and battle of racism and sisterhood bond in WWII - and finding the inner and outer strength. Absolute best book to read and honestly I didn't put it down.
I just reviewed Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders. #WomenofthePost #NetGalley
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I just reviewed Women of the Post by Joshunda Sanders. #WomenofthePost #NetGalley
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December 17, 2024
I would give this 3.5 stars. The subject matter— black women’s role in WWII —was interesting and new to me, but the characters didn’t have the depth that I was hoping for and that kept it from a full 4 stars.
May 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! The characters were wonderfully depicted and relatable. This was a great look into the African American view point of WWII. I really recommend this book!
Read
February 4, 2025Women of the post is inspired by true events, bringing to light the women who proudly served in the all-Black battalion 6888 of the Women’s Army Corps in WWII. It is important to note it was inspired by and I will explain later why I mention this. The story centers on Judy Washington from the Bronx, as well as Stacy, Bernadette and Mary Alyce from various places in the US. Judy joins the Women’s Army Corps or the WAC, she does six weeks of basic training at Fort Des Moines, Iowa. Under the leadership of Second Officer Charity Adams, they receive orders to sort over one million pieces of mail in England, becoming the only unit of Black women to serve overseas during WWII. Their first stop is Birmingham, England. Facing racism within the army itself, they have to fight that war as well as doing the job assigned to them.
The story is told from three POVs, Charity, Judy and Mary Alyce. They joined the WAC for various reasons, but they are all dedicated, hard working and intelligent, but you would never know it based on the way they were treated by the white soldiers and officers. This group became friends and sisters. They faced racism head on, shared secrets from their past and were strong, gritty, women who served with dignity. So now for my reason for the comment above. The author included a storyline for Charity that she was gay and in a secret same sex relationship. I read Charity Adams' book and this is not the case. She married and had children. The author included in her notes that this was a fictitious storyline, but to attribute that to a real character is wrong in my opinion. If she wanted to include a LGBTQ+ storyline, she could have done that with any of her fictional characters she added to the story. Besides that issue, I think this book does a good job highlighting this important part of history and these women who did an all important job with no thanks or recognition. Robin Miles is the narrator and does a wonderful job with the voices and the story. I enjoyed my listening experience with this book. If you enjoy audiobooks, I recommend you listen to this one.
The story is told from three POVs, Charity, Judy and Mary Alyce. They joined the WAC for various reasons, but they are all dedicated, hard working and intelligent, but you would never know it based on the way they were treated by the white soldiers and officers. This group became friends and sisters. They faced racism head on, shared secrets from their past and were strong, gritty, women who served with dignity. So now for my reason for the comment above. The author included a storyline for Charity that she was gay and in a secret same sex relationship. I read Charity Adams' book and this is not the case. She married and had children. The author included in her notes that this was a fictitious storyline, but to attribute that to a real character is wrong in my opinion. If she wanted to include a LGBTQ+ storyline, she could have done that with any of her fictional characters she added to the story. Besides that issue, I think this book does a good job highlighting this important part of history and these women who did an all important job with no thanks or recognition. Robin Miles is the narrator and does a wonderful job with the voices and the story. I enjoyed my listening experience with this book. If you enjoy audiobooks, I recommend you listen to this one.
July 17, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Women of the Post is well written and informative book in which we learn of the 6888th Postal Battalion. The different POV’s of Judy, Mary Alyce and Charity allows you to immerse yourself in the very different ways these women navigated things before, during, and after the time spent in the Women’s Army Corps.
In one ordeal Judy works hard all day cleaning and at the end of the working day she is paid using her own money, which the woman stole from her(meaning she worked for free). It has been months since Judy has heard from her husband or been sent any money to survive on. Growing tired of this Judy enlist in the Women’s Army Corp (WAC).
During basic training Judy becomes friends with Stacy, Bernadette, and Mary Alyce, who only finds out she’s black when she enlists. After finishing basic training the women wait to find out where they will be sent. The army eventually decide to send them to Birmingham, England where they will be sorting the back logged mail. These women work tirelessly to get the mail out knowing that mail received serves as a boost of morale for the troops.
Thank you Hear Our Voices Tours, Park Row and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Women of the Post is well written and informative book in which we learn of the 6888th Postal Battalion. The different POV’s of Judy, Mary Alyce and Charity allows you to immerse yourself in the very different ways these women navigated things before, during, and after the time spent in the Women’s Army Corps.
In one ordeal Judy works hard all day cleaning and at the end of the working day she is paid using her own money, which the woman stole from her(meaning she worked for free). It has been months since Judy has heard from her husband or been sent any money to survive on. Growing tired of this Judy enlist in the Women’s Army Corp (WAC).
During basic training Judy becomes friends with Stacy, Bernadette, and Mary Alyce, who only finds out she’s black when she enlists. After finishing basic training the women wait to find out where they will be sent. The army eventually decide to send them to Birmingham, England where they will be sorting the back logged mail. These women work tirelessly to get the mail out knowing that mail received serves as a boost of morale for the troops.
Thank you Hear Our Voices Tours, Park Row and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2023
Judy is tired of working for pennies. She joins the WAC. She wants a steady paycheck and she wants to know where her husband is. He joined the army and she has not heard a word from him. She ends up becoming friends with several other women in her group. They all end up overseas (even though they are not allowed to go!) with specific orders to fix the mess of the mail.
Well! I am a huge WWII reader (if you have not guessed!). And I had never heard of the women who straighten out the mess of the mail in WWII. I learned so much reading this novel.
First of all, I didn’t know about the African American women in the Army. I didn’t know all the trials they had to overcome. But these women were amazing. Then there is the Slave Market in the Bronx during the 1930s and 1940s. You can read more about that piece of awful history here. Plus, Mary McLeod Bethune is mentioned in this novel. She has a special place in my childhood reading so I learned more about her in these pages.
There is so much that this novel encompasses. Not only is it full of rich history, it is also full of friendship, strength and a bit of romance.
Need a unique, well researched, WWII tale…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
Well! I am a huge WWII reader (if you have not guessed!). And I had never heard of the women who straighten out the mess of the mail in WWII. I learned so much reading this novel.
First of all, I didn’t know about the African American women in the Army. I didn’t know all the trials they had to overcome. But these women were amazing. Then there is the Slave Market in the Bronx during the 1930s and 1940s. You can read more about that piece of awful history here. Plus, Mary McLeod Bethune is mentioned in this novel. She has a special place in my childhood reading so I learned more about her in these pages.
There is so much that this novel encompasses. Not only is it full of rich history, it is also full of friendship, strength and a bit of romance.
Need a unique, well researched, WWII tale…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
September 19, 2025
I give this book a 3.0. I wanted to like this book more. I really did but it just didn't do it for me.
This book follows Judy Washington, Mary Alyce, Bernadette, and Stacy as they enter the first all negro women's regiment. They are commanded by fellow negro women Commander Charity Adams and Abigail Campbell (I forget her rank in the book). The 3rd person POVs are from Judy, Mary Alyce and Charity. Charity, it apprears, is the only one based on a real person. 6888th regiment were vital in sorting through the backlog of mail that didn't get sent out towards the end of the war. This was the first time an all negro women's regiment went overseas during the war and were tasked with more than just cleaning up.
I really wanted to like this book but the writing just didn't do it for me. It really could've used some editing. Two different people would be talking in the same paragraph so I had to re-read a few paragraphs a few times to understand who was saying what to whom. The chapters themselves didn't flow very well. I understand that they were from different POVs but the way they were placed didn't make the story progress smoothly. Also, for this to be a historical fiction about an all negro regiment, I expected to hear more about the adversities that the regiment faced.
Judy's character was quite perplexing as well. Why was she so adamant on not discussing her husband with her new found friends? And a reason was never given as to why? Also, Judy made quite an effort to comfort Mary Alyce once she found out she was negro. While that is very admirable, it kind of just rubbed me the wrong way. I guess it is just me being tired of BW taking on the emotional burdens of others.
Charity was the ONLY character in the book that was based on a real person and the author made her a lesbian. Why? It did nothing but add an unnecessary romance to a story that didn't need one. Plus, out of all of the made up characters, you changed this about a real person. Why?
I gave this the rating I did because of the small historical aspect but if you're looking to learn more about the history of this regiment, what they accomplished, and how...this isn't the book for you.
This book follows Judy Washington, Mary Alyce, Bernadette, and Stacy as they enter the first all negro women's regiment. They are commanded by fellow negro women Commander Charity Adams and Abigail Campbell (I forget her rank in the book). The 3rd person POVs are from Judy, Mary Alyce and Charity. Charity, it apprears, is the only one based on a real person. 6888th regiment were vital in sorting through the backlog of mail that didn't get sent out towards the end of the war. This was the first time an all negro women's regiment went overseas during the war and were tasked with more than just cleaning up.
I really wanted to like this book but the writing just didn't do it for me. It really could've used some editing. Two different people would be talking in the same paragraph so I had to re-read a few paragraphs a few times to understand who was saying what to whom. The chapters themselves didn't flow very well. I understand that they were from different POVs but the way they were placed didn't make the story progress smoothly. Also, for this to be a historical fiction about an all negro regiment, I expected to hear more about the adversities that the regiment faced.
Judy's character was quite perplexing as well. Why was she so adamant on not discussing her husband with her new found friends? And a reason was never given as to why? Also, Judy made quite an effort to comfort Mary Alyce once she found out she was negro. While that is very admirable, it kind of just rubbed me the wrong way. I guess it is just me being tired of BW taking on the emotional burdens of others.
Charity was the ONLY character in the book that was based on a real person and the author made her a lesbian. Why? It did nothing but add an unnecessary romance to a story that didn't need one. Plus, out of all of the made up characters, you changed this about a real person. Why?
I gave this the rating I did because of the small historical aspect but if you're looking to learn more about the history of this regiment, what they accomplished, and how...this isn't the book for you.
July 17, 2023
Thanks to Park Row and HTP for my copy of Women of the Post.
This is a World War II Historical Fiction about the incredible women of the 6888, the all-black battalion of the Women's Army Air Corps who sorted the mail and were the only unit of black women to serve overseas.
I enjoyed this book and the main characters of Judy, Charity, Bernadette and Alyce - four women who all joined the WAC for different reasons. I loved the sisterhood and solidarity these women showed as they worked hard and proved to others that they could do anything.
The author's note at the end was really good in the fact vs fiction as most of the characters in the story were fictional. While I enjoyed this book, I read Sisters in Arms when it was published in 2021, also about the 6888 so already had some background on these women and Charity Adams. I did find the Bronx Slave Market part very interesting as well.
If you want to know more about this amazing group of women check out Women of the Post.
This is a World War II Historical Fiction about the incredible women of the 6888, the all-black battalion of the Women's Army Air Corps who sorted the mail and were the only unit of black women to serve overseas.
I enjoyed this book and the main characters of Judy, Charity, Bernadette and Alyce - four women who all joined the WAC for different reasons. I loved the sisterhood and solidarity these women showed as they worked hard and proved to others that they could do anything.
The author's note at the end was really good in the fact vs fiction as most of the characters in the story were fictional. While I enjoyed this book, I read Sisters in Arms when it was published in 2021, also about the 6888 so already had some background on these women and Charity Adams. I did find the Bronx Slave Market part very interesting as well.
If you want to know more about this amazing group of women check out Women of the Post.
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