A novel—inspired by the most celebrated regiment in the Red Army—about a woman’s sacrifice, courage, and love in a time of war.Russia, 1941. Katya Ivanova is a young pilot in a far-flung military academy in the Ural Mountains. From childhood, she’s dreamed of taking to the skies to escape her bleak mountain life. With the Nazis on the march across Europe, she is called on to use her wings to … her wings to serve her country in its darkest hour. Not even the entreaties of her new husband—a sensitive artist who fears for her safety—can dissuade her from doing her part as a proud daughter of Russia.
After years of arduous training, Katya is assigned to the 588th Night Bomber Regiment—one of the only Soviet air units composed entirely of women. The Germans quickly learn to fear nocturnal raids by the daring fliers they call “Night Witches.” But the brutal campaign will exact a bitter toll on Katya and her sisters-in-arms. When the smoke of war clears, nothing will ever be the same—and one of Russia’s most decorated military heroines will face the most agonizing choice of all.
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Really good book! It was interesting to read and learn about the female pilots who flew for Russia during WWII. Their bravery and dedication were amazing. The fact that they outperformed the male flight crews is not surprising. They had to work much harder to be acknowledged for their accomplishments.
I appreciated the author’s note at the end in confirming where she deviated from fact. Her effort to provide a true picture of the “Night Witches” and their experiences was worthwhile.
I could have done without the sex scenes…they didn’t really add value to the story. But other than those few episodes, the book is one I would highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for a unbiased review.
My WWII genre books are one if not the #1 genre I read. I am adding this one to my favorites list. This novel educated me to events I did not know about. Learning about the Night Witches was fascinating. I will definitely recommend this book to others. Once you begin this book, it is hard to put down. A moving, stirring tale of daring women during war.