The Bletchley Girls

By: Anna Stuart

Narrated by: Eilidh Beaton

Bletchley Park, 1940: As I stand alone outside the imposing gates in the darkness of the night, I have no idea what lies ahead. All I have with me is a suitcase of clothes and a handful of letters from my fiancé. But I’m determined to fight in whatever way I can for freedom and for love....

Inspired by the unforgettable true story of the women of Bletchley Park, this utterly gripping novel of secrets, love, and courage shines a light on the incredible wartime work that changed the course of history.

When Stefania Carmichael steps into the mysterious world of Bletchley Park, she immediately finds herself signing the Official Secrets Act. In whispers, she is told that she’s been recruited because of her talent for languages. Before the war ripped Europe apart, Stefania was living in Rome, charming everyone she met with her quick wit and sharp mind, and engaged to the man of her dreams, handsome and brave Matteo. And now everything has changed.

With secrets swirling around the building, Stefania finds it hard to know who to trust, until she forms a close bond with two other new recruits. Ailsa is a gifted radio operator and Fran a logistics genius, and the two women help Stefania navigate her new world of codebreaking. But even though Stefania’s skills are crucial to the war effort, her position is put in jeopardy when Italy joins the opposite side of the battle—and her beloved fiancé becomes the enemy.

Her heart belongs to Matteo, but she knows she must do whatever it takes to help England win the war. So when she is asked to go on a classified mission, she jumps at the chance. But it soon becomes clear there’s a traitor in their midst, and all eyes turn to her....

With her life at stake, can she prove herself innocent and save the man she loves? Or will Stefania lose everything?

An absolutely addictive World War Two novel of friendship, betrayal, and heartbreak. Perfect for fans of The Rose Code, The Alice Network, and The Nightingale.

©2022 Anna Stuart (P)2022 Bookouture, an imprint of Storyfire Ltd.

Excellent story until about 1/2 way in

I loved this story until it was about 1/2 way through then the characters fell apart completely. It became totally unrealistic. Despite having signed The Official Secrets Act these women just couldn't keep their mouths shut or their actions from being openly dangerous.

The conditions on Malta were starkly written. I knew it had been dangerous but I hadn't realized how close they were to surrounding to Rommel. I plan to look for a goods non-fiction book on the siege of that island.

I enjoyed it very much.

This was a great story & factual in so many areas. It kept me interested & wasn’t too graphic like some WWII stories can be. The narrator was excellent. I loved learning the facts at the end.

Bravery

Unfortunately the same sex liaison became distracting. The story was good but that wasn’t necessary for this story.

history's mystrey

true history in a great novel that brings unknown history to light. this is a great way to interest people in ww2

Great characters and interesting settings

I loved the characters and getting to learn about WWII in the Mediterranean because most historical fiction focuses on other geographies. And to those that are clutching their pearls about the lesbian love storyline: LGBTQ+ people have existed since the start of recorded history. Our stories are just as beautiful and valid as hetero love stories and deserve the same treatment. And in this book it was only one small part and worked wonderfully with the character development.

the narration

when the same sex relationship first mentioned. it was an unnecessary addition to the book

Very disappointed

I enjoyed several other captivating WW2 novels by Anna Stuart. I am so disappointed with the unnecessary homosexual characters in this story.