Code Name Elodie

The Bletchley Park Girls #2

by Anna Stuart

1943, Bletchley In the dark of night, my heart is pumping with adrenalin as I wait for news of the secret agent operating under the code name Elodie. She has a dangerous part to play in the Normandy landings and so many lives are at stake. But I couldn’t bear to lose her…

Inspired by the brave women of Bletchley Park, this is a totally gripping World War Two novel of friendship, heartbreak and hope. Perfect for fans of The Rose Code, The Alice Network and The Nightingale.

Valerie Rousseau is burning with determination to help free her beloved France from the Nazi regime. Working at the mysterious Bletchley Park, she strikes up an unexpected bond with smart, fiercely loyal Fran Morgan as they spend long days together with their heads bent over maps of France in preparation for the Allied invasion.

Their friendship grows increasingly important as they distract themselves from the dark days of war with afternoons skating across the icy pond at the heart of Bletchley Park and evenings talking late into the night. But Valerie’s wartime role is shrouded in secrecy and there are things that she can’t even tell Fran.

When Valerie volunteers for a dangerous mission linked to the D-Day landings in Normandy, Fran is devastated. Valerie has knowingly put her life on the line and Fran is terrified that she will never see her again.

Soon, Fran hears about the bravery of the agent operating under the code name Elodie. She’s certain it’s Valerie and she knows the work she is doing in her little office, overlooking the green fields of England, could be the difference between life and death for this secret agent…

Can both women secure victory for their country? Or will the fight for freedom cost them their love – and their lives?

Genres: Historical Fiction, World War II, Fiction, Historical, Mystery

382 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 29, 2023

About the author

I wanted to be an author from the moment I could pick up a pen and was writing boarding-school novels by the age of nine. I made the early mistake of thinking I ought to get a ‘proper job’ and went into Factory Planning – a career that gave me some wonderful experiences, amazing friends and even a fantastic husband, but didn’t offer much creative scope. So when I stopped to have children I took the chance to start the ‘improper job’ of writing. During the baby years I wrote in the brief gaps provided by sleeps, playschools and obliging grandparents, publishing short stories and serials in all the women’s magazines.

But my ultimate aim was to write longer fiction and several years ago I published a series of successful historical novels under the pseudonym Joanna Courtney. I will continue to publish under that name but am delighted, as Anna Stuart, to also be able to write contemporary fiction. Bonnie and Stan is a true to life romance set in both the present day and sixties Liverpool and Four Minutes to Save a Life is a domestic drama about how small acts of kindness might just change the world!

Reviews

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based on a true story, Code Name Elodie begins in Bletchley Park, a quirky old Victorian mansion standing in 58 acres of grounds in the countryside of sleepy Buckinghamshire. In 1943 it served as the top-secret home of the World War Two Codebreakers.

The storyline follows a group of young women thrust into a world at war, and one in which their contribution will have a huge impact on the eventual outcome. Although the girls are from hugely differing backgrounds, the challenges they are faced with and the importance of the work they are carrying out means that their friendship and loyalty to each other is without question. Secret agent Elodie is well known to the Bletchley girls. Working undercover in Normandy she is at the heart of the D Day Landings, but will she be one of the lucky ones who survived the carnage? For one of the Bletchley girls in particular it will mean everything.

Well written, well researched, this is an inspirational read and a great addition to the historical fiction genre.

*Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four close friends, four young women working at helping to save their countries in the war effort. Ailsa, whose husband Ned was overseas, working with the close knit people coding and decoding. Steffie, whose fiance Matteo was a double agent, sending important information back to London. Valerie, a French girl on English soil, desperate to join her family and the resistance to fight for La France. And Fran, happily living in the caravan on Gloria and Alfie's farm, and working with the other three young women at Bletchley Park.

The importance of the messages coming in to Bletchley Park, and raced through to London; cracking the German code, which changed regularly each month (and was relatively easy to break) - the work was constant, busy with long hours. But everyone knew how important it was. When friends of Valerie's, now Fran's, told of first one, then the second important member of the resistance being captured, grief and desolation caused Valerie to volunteer for the D-Day plans in Normandy. But everyone knew how dangerous it would be over there. Valerie's grand-mere was Elodie - hence her code name was Elodie. Could she make it through to the other side?

Code Name Elodie is the 2nd in The Bletchley Park Girls by Anna Stuart and I enjoyed it very much. A little bit rambly in places, nevertheless, it was well worth the read, and catching up with the girls in their little caravan was great. I'm looking forward to #3 to come. Recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three friends, Fran, Stefania and Ailsa, go above and beyond with regard to their efforts towards winning the war in 1943. With D-Day on the horizon, their work was critical. Reunited again at Bletchley Park, each of them faced serious duty as well as heartbreak while the brutal war just might be nearing its end.

Fran is living unconventionally, and in fact, this is in part where the title of this book comes into play. For Ailsa, being newly married and separated from her husband due to the war, this is not the only change her life takes on. Then there is Stefania, missing her new love and facing tragedy while never giving up hope or in her efforts.

This second book in the Bletchley Girls series is just as emotional and as captivating as was the first. These women were strong and all had great value when it came to military strength and intelligence. This was also a powerful story of friendship and dedication. While individually their lives could not be more different, the strength of their friendship and the important nature of their work proved to be strong and lasting bond for all of them.

Anna Stuart has once again written a pivotal story that showed both great research as well as wonderful writing talent, thus making this book a compelling read.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Code Name Elodie is the second book in the Bletchley Park Girls series by Anna Stuart, but I read this as a standalone and had no issues with the story, the characters or the history of the events. I will however, read the previous book as I liked this one and want to know more about the women featured in the story. Fran Morgan, a well off British woman, Stefania Carmichael, the daughter of a General and Ailsa Robinson, daughter of fisherfolk in Scotland are friends working at Bletchley Park. They are living in a caravan on a farm. Each of these women take a different path, do their part and help the allies to win the war. Ailsa is great at decoding Japanese messages. She marries Ned, who is sent to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) to serve. When Ailsa realizes she is pregnant, she wants to be with him. She tells no one and argues and fights until the government lets her to and work for the radio service to be with her husband. Fran meets Valerie Rousseau, a determined French Woman who wants to do all she can to liberate France from the Nazis. They fall in love and it is Valerie's story that makes up a large portion of this book. Steffie is engaged to Matteo. He is an Italian working as a double agent stationed in Malta. All three of these women are excellent at what they do from breaking code, deciphering messages, intuiting what is coming and mapping areas. Their stories are not easy, but they are interesting and show the importance of women during WW2.

These women were strong, independent and extremely intelligent. Their courage, especially Valerie/Elodie, was exceptional. Of course, women were not considered to be as intelligent as men during this time, but this group were often able to convince their supervisors to allow them to take on roles that would normally go to men. The way they dealt with people and showed what they could to earned them the trust and admiration of the higher ups. Along with that, this is a story of friendship, love and family. There is tragedy as there is in any war story, but there is hope as well. I recommend Code Name Elodie to those who enjoy historical fiction, especially the role of women in WW2.

[Caroline D’cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Code name Elodie is the second book in the series of The Bletchley park girl and I must say that author Anna Stuart never disappoints. The book is a continuation of the life of the girls who left their homes to dedicate they lives to help in the on going ww2 at the Bletchley park.

The book based on a true story is well researched by the author. The characters are loveable and its was nice to follow the journey of Ailsa, Steffie and Fran once again. The Bletchley park girls story is an inspirational story of women’s contribution to the world war 2.

Overall a great inspiring story of war, friendship and survival.

Thanks to netgalley, the publisher and the author Anna stuart for this ARC

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is the continuing story of the hard work of the Bletchley Park Girls. Based on true events of Bletchley Park, Anna Stuart has introduced us two three very different girls brought together by their hope to end the war and start living a, somewhat, normal adult life.
This is, once again, a riveting World War II story and like Anna Stuart’s other books, this will leave you celebrating in the small, and large, victories. Feeling the heartbreak of characters as they endure loss. And feeling the anticipation of the end of the war.
This was a slower pace than the first book. There wasn’t as much action as the first, or a least it was a different kind of action. Some parts did read a bit slower. However, the amount of secret work and deception that were used in the war were predominant which was it’s own kind of excitement.
Just like in the first book this one follows Steffie, Fran and Ailsa. Once again, they have incredible character development and personal growth throughout this book. They continue to showcase the brilliance and strength women showed during the war as part of the war efforts. They all experience some kind of heartbreak in their own way but they also all experience incredibly happy moments too.
Anna Stuart has such an amazing writing style and you can feel the passion she has for everything that she’s writes. Code Name Elodie is no exception.
I definitely recommend Code Name Elodie if you are a historical fiction lover, if you love books with strong female protagonist.


Thank you Anna Stuart, Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Ronald Ross · Rating 1 out of 5]

Incredulous

This story stretches the limits of incredulity...a preposterous plot with a lot of modern language and cultural quirks...pretty red dress on the cover.

[Jack Maxwell]

Discovery book

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect novel for readers of romance and friendship set in WWII. Interesting as well. I loved the first book, and had enjoyed all historical details set outside Europe during the war. In this novel though, the story mostly takes place in Bletchley Park with a good insight at what was going on there... A light and great read!
I received a complimentary ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Code Name Elodie is the second in the Bletchley Park Girls series by Anna Stuart which continues on the story of Fran, Steffie and Alisa. I adored the first book, The Bletchley Girls, so I was delighted to see a second book as I felt the first concluded with a lot of unfinished business. Yes, this new book can be read as a standalone but to get a real flavour for the girls and their experiences during the war, I would suggest starting with book number one. What, I love about these characters and their stories is that we are getting an insight into an aspect of the war that at the time was top secret and it’s only as the years have passed that details have been released as to the astonishing and incredible work that was carried out at Bletchley Park.

It’s also brilliant to see women having such a prominent and important role in war work.The plot showed how they stepped outside of their expected place as viewed by society, that area being the home and the role of rearing children and stepped up to the mark when needed most even if there was still an aspect of hesitancy with men viewing some of the women with disdain and not being capable of doing their job. But Fran, Alisa and Steffie are three remarkable women among many and their individual stories which come together as a whole were brilliant to discover making this book a very enjoyable read.

The first few chapters helped me to refamiliarize myself with the characters of Fran, Steffie and Alisa who all do vital war work at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire. Security is of the utmost importance and the Nazi’s musn’t discover what work goes on there. Fran comes from a family of medics. Steffie is the daughter of the military attaché to Rome and Alisa hails from a remote Scottish island where her family are fisherfolk. So each of the young woman comes from a very varied background but they all have special and unique talents which add so much to the crucial work that is carried out day in day out at the park in order to thwart the continued domination of the Nazi’s.

The main focus of this book is the plans by the British and Americans to invade France in order to over throw the Germans. This goes on to be D Day which occurs in the later stages of the book. I loved all the technical terms and detailed descriptions of the work carried out by the girls. Be it working as a wireless operator or translating decrypts and turning them into messages or simply the brilliant organisational work carried out by Fran. The whole system of operations was riveting and just gives a greater appreciation for how vast the entire war effort was. That plans were always afoot and even if the results of said plans may be months away from coming to fruition the girls and the team around them never rested on their laurels as they were all so closely united with one common aim.

I felt in this book both Steffie and Alisa really stepped up to the mark in terms of the work they carried out. I felt Fran, although extremely good at her job, seemed to have her mind on other things, most notably Valerie, the French lady whom she has found love with. Don’t get me wrong she did do her job but I got the sense that Valerie was dissatisfied with being at the park that she would much rather get in on the action in her home territory of France but that her love for Fran was holding her back. Valerie was restless and had a wild spirit about her and her love and dedication to her country and to the cause deserves nothing but admiration. Yet, she does have to choose between Fran or France and I felt they went through a tumultuous time especially towards the end as mentioned in the blurb. I did feel the blurb focused rather on the later section of the book rather than giving an overall picture of the themes, life stories and issues being explored. I think the blurb could have been edited a bit and a more general overview given. But my enjoyment of the book wasn’t spoilt by this.

For me, it was Alisa and Steffie who were the stand out characters this time around. I felt they both matured in different ways both in terms of both their personal and professional lives. Alisa is now married to Ned and I think she epitomised women at the time who were willing to step outside of their comfort zone and do their bit for their country. Having done this Alisa had the taste and passion for wireless operating and she strived to make her way in a male dominated world. A world where she was just as good if not better than some of her work colleagues and although there were innumerable rules and stipulations put in her path she broke down barriers time and time again. I loved this about her and that she went against convention and kept forging forward doing what she believed was right even if it did go against rules and at times her life was put in danger. Her bravery, courage and determination are such admirable qualities to have and she had them in spades. She wanted to be an equal along side Ned and his colleagues. She felt it was almost a sense of injustice that it was against the rules for married women to go abroad to work. But I loved how stubborn she was and dare I say it a little bit underhand in what she did but she had her love for both Ned and her job at the centre of everything she did even if she was hiding a little secret which she almost refused to accept herself. But truly I thoroughly enjoyed how her aspect of the story was developed. It showed how resourceful stubborn, forceful she was and how she was made of very stern and tough stuff.

As for Alisa, I could see where her aspect of the plot was going to go from a mile off but the journey to get there was interesting, emotional and heartfelt. She has come a long way from being an officials daughter and I loved how she stepped up into even bigger parts that ultimately played a crucial role in the much larger machine that was forever evolving and turning. There is plenty of heartbreak and emotional change for Alisa and she weathered the storm with grace and integrity as do all the girls really. The destruction, sacrifices, loss and pain they all experience alongside moments of pure joy and happiness amidst the darkness are all nicely balanced and help make this an important read.

Admittedly, similar to the first book, I did find the first half of the book quite slow and you are left wondering when something exciting or twist turning will happen? As with the last book it was in the last 25% or so that things really heated up and made my opinion of the book as a whole change. I felt like the last section of the book more than made up for the slow start and in fact middle too. The last section detailing the different viewpoints of each character as D Day was launched was just astounding and in fact spine chilling to read. The author really made it feel like you were there alongside the characters and the vivid and detailed imagery was so remarkable that as I was reading I felt like a movie scene by scene was being played out in my head. Such sheer emotion was spilling from the pages and to read of all the different perspectives was just fascinating and really awe inspiring as you realised how each and every person put their heart and soul into a plan determined to read to rid the world of the evil of Hitler once and for all.

As I was enjoying the story so much, I was disappointed when it came to what I felt was like an abrupt ending. Yes, the ending was satisfactory but it just felt like it all happened too quickly and things were wrapped up within a page or two which was a shame given generally how well developed things had been throughout the book even if the pacing had been slow. Or maybe, it’s just the selfish part of me that wanted to continue reading more of the three girls who are all such strong and fantastic characters who forged a path for all the females who followed in their wake. Pushing, my issues aside with the abrupt ending, Code Name Elodie, is another very good read from Anna Stuart and one I enjoyed reading very much. I sense that this is the end from this set of characters so I am intrigued as to what part of the war ( if any) she will turn her attention to for her next book as despite reading innumerable books set during this period I really can’t get enough of them.

[Deidre · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story gripped me from the get go and never let go. Fran and Valerie are two women from different backgrounds forced together to plan and prepare for the Allie’s invasion in Normandy. Valerie willingly and voluntarily puts her life on the line while Fran eagerly awaits news from her, anxious she’ll never see her again. Soon Fran hears word of a spy that only goes by the name “Elodie” and knows in her heart that it must be Valerie. I shed tears while reading this and absolutely loved reading Valerie and Fran’s story - several times there was a knot in my stomach as I read but this was a fantastic book about badass women and the important part they played in the war.

[Stephanie Latham · Rating 1 out of 5]

Couldn't get into it like her last book...really a shame

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to return to the Bletchley Park Girls Series by Anna Stuart after thoroughly enjoying book 1. This author without fail delivers powerful, well-developed, researched stories. And I can say most sincerely, I was pinned to the pages of her latest offering. Time evaporated as I fell into step with the characters while they moved from one event to the next. I was dying to see the outcomes (both personal and military). It was a satisfying journey to pick up where the first book left off with best friends and co-workers Steffie, Ailsa and Fran along with their love counterparts Matteo, Ned and Valerie. They each continue fighting the war on various fronts. Their determination, will and drive to defeat the enemy shines in Code Name Elodie which ramps up even greater when heartbreak hits. And with D-Day in their sights, they muster up every ounce of strength they can to see victory on the horizon. But victory will come with a cost, for war is predictable in that it always snatches innocent lives on the path to freedom. So, who will be left standing?

I continued to admire Steffie, Ailsa and Fran throughout book two but just as in book one, I was particularly taken with Ailsa. She is a girl with a Celtic heart, a warrior that often runs ahead of danger and ignores practicalities. Her passion to persist and defeat enemies and overcome obstacles are a pleasure to watch. I admire her for her love of love, too, sacrificing sometimes her own safety to be with or help those she deeply cares about. She is not a single woman now. Ailsa is married to a man she met on a previous mission who, I’d say, is a great match for her. Now, we learn she is pregnant but her husband has been shipped off to Ceylon and he does not know of their bundle of joy brewing. She utilises her will and skill to fight the enemy and combines it with her great love and devotion to her husband to be with him again. And being resourceful, she finds a way. I loved watching her part of the story unfold. Her courage is like the fierceness of the strong salt winds of Scotland. Ailsa still stands as my favourite Bletchley Park Girl.

Steffie’s story has its challenges. Her father’s position as a major general has most likely been a blessing and a curse for her. She is expected to understand the sacrifices imposed by war and be strong: to wait. Her own language abilities come into play once again as she is sent abroad to help but what she finds there, is not what she expects. And the revelations will change her heart forever. Though a friendship develops that will sustain her through the rough patches.

Literature-loving Fran (from a family of medics) also faces upheaval and her heart will become tossed like a wave on a troubled sea. She constantly hears a mantra in her mind over and over, that was once spoken to her in the heat of an argument: ‘perhaps it is better, in wartime, not to love at all.’ Will she embrace this thought or throw all caution to the wind in the end when threatened with loss? On the work skills front, her desire to be a journalist still thrives in her soul. The outcomes for her are appropriate. When D-Day comes, there is more than one turning of the tide event for her.

This is a beautifully written, thoroughly researched WW2 novel by Anna Stuart and a great addition to her Bletchley Park Girls Series. I have not mentioned the title or what it means but can say emotions run high throughout and peak in the latter section with a dangerous mission linked to D-Day and Valerie’s connection to the Elodie Code. Fran fears for her partner’s safety and there are some hair-raising, heart-in your-throat moments in this passage that change the course of many lives.

I won’t say more but this is a must-read novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Some parts will make you cry. You may even feel frustrated at the battles women faced at that time. But the beautiful sisterhood theme is empowering, forcing the negatives to fade into the background. I loved Code Name Elodie and highly recommend it. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful piece of writing – an extraordinarily detailed insider view of wartime activities in the run-up to the D-Day landings (my goodness, the research…), wrapped around a compelling story of female friendship, both gripping and moving, as their separate lives take a number of directions they could never have expected.

I will admit that I think I might have engaged with the book rather better at the start had I read the first in the series (although there’s enough catching up to put the individual stories in context), and the characters, at first, were just a little blurred as I sorted out their relationships and became increasingly involved in their lives. As the D-Day landings draw closer, Fran finds herself in a key role at Bletchley, pursuing her dream of becoming a journalist whenever the opportunity arises. Her French girlfriend Valerie becomes increasingly involved in the activities of the Free French, and her passion for her country has consequences for their relationship and sees her making decisions that take her into considerable danger.

Steffie’s journey is fascinating too, if tragic and distressing on a personal level – involved with the secret world of the Twenty Committee and their various activities focused on deceiving the enemy on a number of fronts. I particularly enjoyed some of the detail the author draws into the story, especially the ingenuity of Operation Mincemeat – and was fascinated by Fran’s involvement in collecting photos and postcards to inform the production of booklets to be carried by the invading forces to show them the lie of the land. And then there’s Ailsa, with a significant secret of her own, overcoming the prejudice about a meaningful wartime role for married women and convincing the authorities to allow her to travel to Ceylon – where she can use her particular skill set and rejoin her husband Ned.

Their individual stories are wonderfully told – exceptionally involving, sometimes emotional – but this is also the story of strong female friendship, and of the bravery of a group of women showing immense fortitude while showing how very capable they can be. The social landscape is particularly well drawn – the ridiculous rules preventing women from fulfilling their potential and taking up their rightful roles, the misogynistic attitudes of those in charge, their constant struggle to prove their worth.

If I do have one criticism – and with apologies – I wasn’t entirely convinced that the book’s title was the right one. The story of Elodie – although edge-of-the-seat and very well told – only comes to the fore later in the book, and I felt was always subsidiary to the ongoing struggles of Fran, Steffie and Ailsa. But perhaps that’s just me – and it certainly drove home the message that “love is too painful to indulge in during wartime”, but also endorsed the fact that it’s the one key thing that keeps everyone going. Emotionally, the author just gets everything absolutely right – there are certainly tears along the way, but the conclusion of all the individual stories is heartwarming, satisfying, and particularly uplifting.

This really was an excellent read, and one I really enjoyed on so many levels – and a book I’d thoroughly recommend to others.

[Marea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series The Bletchley Girls. Ailsa, Steffie and Fran all came from different walks of life but came together as sisters when they started to work together in Bletchley Park during WW2. Each of them skilled in different ways that helped to take the Allies to victory.

Aisla met her husband while in Malta, now she wants to follow him to Ceylon after he receives his orders there. While the military doesn’t like women serving, they definitely do not like pregnant women on overseas assignments. So Aisla hides it from almost everyone until she gets there. Luckily she not only has a husband who supports her 100% but also the men she supervises so they allow her to stay.

Steffie has become part of a special group of people putting specific plans in action. As the daughter of a high ranking officer she knows a lot about the military and is glad to put the knowledge into action. Especially if it will help her and Matteo be together sooner rather than later.

Fran and Valerie’s relationship is something that has happened for centuries but never really talked about. Fran is an important part of Bletchley in making sure parts are run smoothly and is put to task in putting together special information for D-Day, when the troops set their feet on the ground in France. Valerie is a confusing character, there are lots of men in her life but yet says she loves Fran. She also hates that she is so far away from the action in her home country of France she decides she will do anything to go back and help the Resistance, especially after 2 important parts of it are killed. Now she sacrifices everything to go home. Fran worries about her until she gets a message about Elodie, recognizing that is Fran’s grandmothers name she realizes she is safe. Or is she?

This book touches on so many subjects that women had to go through then and in some ways now while being a part of organizations and departments. They were often treated like crap and many believed they were not that smart. It shows you how different life could be for us all if it wasn’t for women going against the odds and making a difference. It is a great series to have in your collection. I almost hope there will be a 3rd one talking about the end of the war and then later on in their lives.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Code Name Elodie is a intriguing, enlightening followup to The Bletchley Park Girls. The author had me hooked on the story from the very beginning. Code Name Elodie gives insight into the demands on the people at Bletchley Park as they moved closer to the planned invasions in Europe. I was clueless. I had know idea how much planning was needed. This story is a great example of the importance of having "all your ducks in a row" before implementing a plan.

The author has written a story about some amazing characters. I couldn't help but become invested in their lives. The story follows the friendship of Fran, Valerie, Stephania and Ailsa. Each of them is doing something of great importance even if they can't discuss it with each other. Their personal lives add a dramatic flare to the story. Even in war, love can grow.

For Valerie, working at Bletchley Park is not enough. She wants to do more. She needs to do more. She leaves her job to join the SOE before returning home to aid the resistance. Such bravery.

Ailsa is desperate to be reunited with her husband in Ceylon. Her abilities get her transferred. Her talents have them turning a blind eye to her being married. She is keeping a secret that could change everything.

Stefania's story has me exploring the history of the war in more detail. I had no idea what was going on in some aspects until her character became involved. She works hard to keep her fiancee safe behind enemy lines as he spies on the Italians. Every day he risks his life to get back to her.

I don't know where we would have been in the war without the talents of people like Fran.
I gained understanding of the struggles of what women experienced while trying to help in the war effort. I learned so many details about the importance of Bletchley Park.

We owe these women and others like them so much for their dedication. It was not just the men on the ground that won the war. If not for books like this one, we would remain in the dark about the unsung heroes. I am so grateful for authors like Anna Stuart. They remind me that we should never stop learning. The more knowledge we have the less we risk repeating the horrors of the past.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it. The title and the book description is a bit misleading. I thought the book was going to center around Valerie and what she was up to in France while helping the resistance. That is only a very small part and doesn't happen until the very end of the book on D-Day. I loved getting to see Ailsa, Steffie and Fran all working back at Bletchley Park. The book is pretty much a continuation of The Bletchley Girls. The woman were still treated differently than the men, even though they were doing the same job. Heaven forbid if the woman becomes pregnant!!!! It was great to see all the men under Ailsa stand up for her. My favorite part was the relationship Ailsa, Fran and Steffie formed with each other. They were truly best friends and became their own little family and were there for each other. Aisla always seems to get to go to the exotic locations. First Malta and then Ceylon. Wherever she goes, something always happens. I love how the book shows how much women helped during the war. Valerie was my least favorite character. She pretty much complained about everything and would blow up and become angry so easily. She was definitely not an easy person to love.

Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, story and writing style. I would love to read more about the girls and see what they are up to after the end of the war. I'm not sure if any of them would be happy being a housewife after all the work they did at Bletchley Park. Look forward to reading more books by the author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[L.S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I generally lap up any story involving Bletchley Park, so this was a must-read for me – and I was not disappointed other than to say how did I miss the first book in the series? That is a mistake I’ll rectify very soon. Even so, let me add, that not having read book one made no difference in my enjoyment of this book.
Fran (and her French girlfriend, Valerie), Ailsa (and her husband Ned) and Steffie (and her Italian fiancé, Matteo) have been working at Bletchley Park for some when their skills are needed in ways they might never have imagined.
Fran, a budding journalist, is assigned a vital role prior to the D Day landings; Ailsa has cunningly convinced the powers-that- be that, even though she’s married, she’s still the best operator and set-repairer they have and so should be allowed to join her husband, Ned, and Stefania is called upon to put her language skills to their best use. As each woman plays her part, they all have personal reasons that spur them on. Fran and Valerie’s love is tested when Valerie insists on leaving for France to join family members in the Resistance. Ailsa hides something very important from her bosses in order to convince them to let her travel overseas, and Steffie awaits news of Matteo, now undercover in Mussolini’s Italy.
Their personal struggles are as fascinating and well-written as their war work and proves – if there was ever any doubt – that women are as capable as men, and their work, so varied, played a critical role in the war effort. I raced through the pages and loved each storyline, all of which made this an engrossing, tense and yet heart-warming read.

[Vicky-Leigh Sayer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Code Name Elodie is the 2nd book in Anna Stuart's Bletchley Park Girls book series, but it can read as a standalone.

Personally I haven't read the first installment (though wish that I had, simply because the writing is so good).

This is the story of Fran, Steffie, Ailsa and Valerie, all doing their bit for the war effort, in varying degrees of secrecy and danger at Bletchley Park (BP as it's affectionally known).

Each woman is exceptional at her job, and with war time comes opportunities and challenges that they may not have had to think of previously. Each of them in turn is forced to make a decision that will impact their future. But if they don't make it, they could impact the war.

The book covers operation mincemeat and the D-Day landings from a particularly unique perspective, that of the folk who were working so hard, day and night at Bletchley Park to decipher and deliver the intelligence to ensure that the troops were where they needed to be, and the enemy as far away as possible.

I'm not 100% sure that the title fits the novel to be honest, though I can offer no more sensible suggestions, I just felt that it wasn't all about Elodie (as much as that part of the story is important).

This is a brilliantly written, thoroughly researched historical fiction novel (with a sprinkling of factual information) and I look forward to reading the next in the series ... and also actually going back to read the first in the series!

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story starts in 1943 during WWII and is set largely in Bletchley Park the secret unit of Allied Codebreakers, an highly important part of the war effort. I didn’t realise until I was reading it, and something made me check, but it is the second book in a series following four women working at Bletchley - Fran, Valerie, Ailsa and Stephania (Steffie).

Briefly, Fran, a would be journalist, and Valerie are a couple but working at Bletchley isn’t enough for French Valerie who wants to help the resistance in La France. Ailsa is recently married but her husband is in Ceylon and she is desperate to join him. For me Steffie’s story was the most interesting. Brought up in a well to do family she is given a role that would never normally be given to a woman. Sorry no spoilers so you need to read it!

This was a very enjoyable read. Bletchley Park has always fascinated me and I was aware that women formed a large percentage of the people working there. Well written and clearly very well researched this book had everything; romance, friendship, heartbreak, bravery and lots of historical detail (I know because I was interested enough to check). Although this is fiction, I think this type of historical fiction is really important, it’s ensures that the next generation are aware of the amazing sacrifices and struggles this generation endured. A good historical drama.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Code Name Elodie is book 2 in the Bletchley Park Girls series.
I find it fascinating that it's based on a true story. I love reading a historical novel that I learn from.
The characters all have depth, with believable back stories that helps me to envision them in my mind which makes them more relatable.
The book is heartbreaking and gripping, I had to read one more chapter, then one more and before I knew it I was done.
Starting off in 1943, Bletchley Park with bombs dropping all around you can feel the women's fear and it pulls you into the story. The 3 main characters are women, and we follow their journey as they seek freedom for their country. We still often think of men when we think of war but so many women bravely sacrificed for their country during war time as well.
War is devastating but these women had a strong friendship, displayed bravery and had determination. Through it all war doesn't stand in the way of love though. Despite the war raging though there is hope through it all.
I have really enjoyed this series and will be reading more by this author.

Published March 29,2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bletchley Park, 1943 as the war rages on across Europe, Valerie Rousseau has a mission, to protect France from the Nazi regime. Bombs dropping throughout Europe the war torn country is in shambles, but the resilience of the people is amazing. Valerie is a spy, and she is a coder and her days are spent reading maps and with her new found friend, Fran Morgan. Coding and decoding is their life day in and day out. Valerie volunteers for a critical mission in Normandy. It’s one that she may never survive, but it must be done. She risks her life to ensure the survival of her country.

Author Anna Stuart writes amazing historical fiction books. The research that she pours into her stories, educates the reader and makes them feel as if they are being taught a lesson in history. Yet at the same time she pulls you into the story and makes you feel like you are personally invested in the characters. I loved this installment of The Bletchley Park Girls series. The courage, sacrifice and heartbreaking storyline of the coders, made me love this book as I devoured it. I was inspired and completely emotional for the characters, and many times reached for the Kleenex box. This is a wonderful must read that I highly recommend.

[Christine M in Texas (stamperlady50) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first in this series The Bletchley Girls, so I knew I wanted to read this one. I hope this series continues.

Stuart does Historical Fiction beautifully. I am always highly invested in the strong female leads and their accomplishments in times when women where only expected to have children.

Valerie Rousseau and Fran Morgan spend their days working for Bletchley Park. Valerie’s role is full of secrecy. Their bond develops as they are working long hours. Once Valerie takes on a dangerous mission, Fran is worried. Her mission has something to do with the D-Day landings in Normandy. The other ladies Alisa, and Steffie add to this novel with their unique stories.

The role that Bletchley Park in WWII is crucial to the war efforts. I enjoy reading books about this area. Absolutely gripping how everyone played a crucial part with codes, missions and so much more to make sure their country and loved ones were safe.

This novel is based on the true story, Code Name Eloide in Bletchley Park. Who would think a Victorian mansion on 58 acres of grounds in Buckinghamshire would be the center of the top-secret work of codebreakers?

[Miranda YEUNG · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been to Bletchley Park few years ago,
therefore it’s easier for me to understand what’s going on there back in World War Two. Bletchley Park was utterly important place for WW2, since it’s the place to decode the German letters.

This historical fiction was written beautifully, about friendship, courage and hope. Although Code Name Elodie is the second book in the Bletchley Park Girl Series, still it can be read as stand alone.

Fran, Ailsa and Steffie worked in Bletchley Park. They did their important part to end the WW2 and preparing for the D-Day. For Elodie, it’s the code name of the secret agent and the Bletchley Girls knew her very well.

I will go back and read the first book in this series, so as to give me a complete story. I can’t wait for the next book from Anna Stuart. Easy to read, emotional and heart-broken based on true event.

Many thanks to netgalley, bookouture and Anna Stuart for the opportunity to read this book.

Page: 382
Pub date: March 29, 2023

[Firetruckmama · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.

“Code Name Elodie” is the second book in “The Bletchley Park Girls” series by Anna Stuart. This book, however, can be read as a stand-alone, though reading the first book gives this book greater background information. For me, this book wasn’t as strong as the first one, though there were a number of exciting things that happened, such as the preparations for D-Day. While I knew about some of the diversions the British and US had planned, I didn’t realize the extent of those diversions. I understand why the Publisher chose the title of this book, but I thought Elodie’s story would take up a lot more of the book than it actually did (just my opinion). If you like reading books about what the Bletchley Park women did and what, in general, British women working for the military did during WWII, this book might be something you enjoy.

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Code Name Elodie is the second book in the fantastic Bletchley Park Girls series. This second book certainly doesn’t disappoint and is as good if not better than book 1; The Bletchley Girls.
It was wonderful to be back with Ailsa, Fran, Stefania and of course Valerie. This series is based on a true story and from the way the book is written you can tell how much effort the author has put into their research of this book. Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and even more so when it’s based on a true story. Code name Elodie is a book thst shows the courage and determination of women during War times and especially the Bletchley Girls who played a huge part in helping with the war effort. This book had me fascinated right from the start and I just didn’t want to stop reading. 5⭐️

[joyce brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!!!!

Loved this book right from the very beginning. It was lovely to follow the lives of Stephania, Frances and Ailsa again and to see how they became more involved with the work at Bletchley Park and beyomd, to help Britain won the war with Germany. There were many ups and downs along the way, but It was a fascinating tale . Anna Stuart is a brilliant writer and storyteller. The reader feels that she is part of the story and lives the characters, through their highs and lows. I visited Bletchley after I had read the first book about these 3 girls, The Bletchley Girls, so I was able to picture the their working environment from first hand experience. Thank you Anna Stuart for bringing this important work done at Bletchley to life and allowing the reader to experience what went on to win WWII.

[Sue Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this brilliant book

the second book in this brilliant series and the bletchley girls are well established in their roles now and it was great to catch up with everyone and see how they are progressing....

Valerie Rousseau is working at bletchley house but she longs to help france free itself from the tyranny of the germans and so she volunteers for a dangerous mission

fran soon hears the name elodie and the daring exploits of this resistance fighter, could it really be her friend....

what a read and i am loving this series, cant get enough stories about the roles the women played in the war and at Bletchley park

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored the first book in this series, so jumped at the chance to be on the tour for Code Name Elodie, the second in The Bletchley Park Girls series.

Continuing on from book one we catch up with friends Fran, Steffie and Ailsa and their continued efforts to code break and defeat Hitler.

The story is based on true events at Bletchley Park, it's well researched and is a fantastic story of friendship, bravery and the war efforts of women.

The characters are realistic and I fast found myself invested in them and their stories. Bletchley Park is shrouded in mystery and for me an absolutely fascinating place.

I'm already excited for book three!

Many thanks to Bookouture for my tour spot.

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Joanne D'Arcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am back with the girls at Bletchley Park. It is now 1943 and war is progressing and plans are being made for an advance in 1944. But there is so much to do before then and all of the three women, Ailsa, Steffie and Fran have their part to play, at Bletchley but much further afield.

Fran is still coming to terms with her choice of love, Valerie Rousseau is French, passionate and desperate to help at home on the front line, not from behind some cryptic messages in an old country house in England. Through all her passions, Valerie leaves Fran with the unknown – what she is really doing in Occupied France.

Alisa, now married to Ned is separated from him. But when a chance to go and work where he is, in Ceylon she jumps at the chance. Trouble is she might have to keep her extra passanger quiet as she knows the rules even if she is one of the best when it comes to wireless sets and finding frueqwncuies. Some things the Ministry will not overlook. But that still does not stop strong wlled Alisa from taking part in as much of the last days of war as she can.

Steffie, is in a different place in her life to other women. Her skills at languages and the influence of her father leads her to become involved in operative planning to confuse the enemy. She suddenly realises that she has quite a lot to give. So does the American solider who has been detailed off to accompany her, but she seems to spend most of time laughing at his use of the English language and not picking up on what is really going on.

All of this weaved to together as we see the planning for D-Day, Operation Mincemeat and the end of the War. The research is so detailed and thorough, that Anna Stuart brings it to life from the page and just like her first, this was a book I could not put down. In fact I was bereft when it ended, but the three women needed to go on and live their lives knowing that they had played a vital part in history.

Thoroughly fascinating, engaging and a must for all fans of historical fiction.