The Secret Sewing Society: An utterly gripping and heartbreaking historical novel full of family secrets

by Siobhan Curham

As enemy soldiers march in the streets, the Needles of Freedom embroider by candlelight beneath the faded gold sign of an old dressmaker’s store. Will their secret messages help win the war?

Occupied Ukraine, 1940. Zirka has been sewing ever since she was a little girl. But now, every stitch contains a spark of rebellion. Together with her cousin Perla, as war rages around them they sew vital secret messages for the resistance into embroidered shirts.

Every night, Zirka leaves to meet with her fiancé in secret and Perla pours her heart out into her diary. Nobody else knows that Perla is living under false papers. If the two women are caught, or betrayed, it would mean certain death…

Lviv, 2022. As Ana gazes around at the peeling wallpaper, she hopes this little shop will bring her closer to the memory of her grandmother Zirka. After Ana’s mother suddenly refused to see or speak to Zirka decades ago, Ana has been desperate to find out what terrible secret tore them apart.

A diary hidden in a long-forgotten kitchen drawer tells of a secret sewing society vital to the war effort long ago. Ana knows she must continue her grandmother’s legacy of resistance now another war has come to her beloved country. But she’s no closer to finding the truth about her own family… and when she does, will she learn that some wartime secrets are too dangerous to uncover?

The Secret Sewing Society is a sweeping, heartbreaking tale about a devastating family mystery, a doomed love affair, and generations of women coming together against the odds. Fans of Evie Woods, Fiona Valpy and The Keeper of Happy Endings will be utterly swept away.

What readers are saying about The Secret Sewing Society :

‘WOW!... this novel completely pulled me in… gripping… unforgettable… heart-breaking in the best way… powerful.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘HEARTBREAKING… powerful and emotional…will stay with you long after you finish it… Gripping.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Fantastic… I loved this book so much… had me hanging on to every word… my favourite read!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A must-read... I adored this book… loved... A wonderful novel. Five stars.’ Betsysbookshops, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Utterly captivating… heartbreaking, hopeful… A moving read that lingers… excellent.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Beautiful... I had to keep looking down through tears… I was so moved from this book.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Loved… both heart-breaking and hopeful… gripping… utterly swept away</

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

464 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2026

About the author

Hi, I’m Siobhan - which for those of you not familiar with the wonder of Irish names, is actually pronounced, Shiv-on!

I’m an award-winning author of over 50 books, fiction and non-fiction, for adults, young adults and children, and my first book was published back in 2000, so I’ve been at this writing game for almost a quarter of a century now.

I’m also a former council estate kid and a university drop-out - I dropped out because I didn’t think I had what it took to make it in the middle class world of publishing. Thankfully I managed to overcome my self doubt and fear and achieve my writing dreams, and now I love helping others do the same through my mentoring, courses and talks.

I don’t know about you, but during the pandemic I felt as if my life had collapsed in on itself and I’d had to shrink myself to fit this strange new world of lockdowns and zoom calls (oh, so many Zoom calls!) and working from home and working alone. Even when things returned to some semblance of normal back in 2022, I felt that I’d lost sight of who I was and I’d definitely lost my joy for living.

Then, an unexpected trip to Jamaica changed everything, jolting me back to life and reminding me of who I truly am. In a bid to never lose sight of myself and my sense of wonder and purpose again, I started travelling more and writing a weekly Substack letter called Wonderstruck. And in September 2023 I gave up my home in the UK and pretty much all of my worldly goods to solo travel the world while I write my books and mentor other writers.

I send Wonderstruck out to my subscribers every Sunday morning, writing about the places I visit and the lessons I learn there. My sole aim for writing this letter is to inspire others to rediscover their own sense of purpose, wonder and adventure.

If you've enjoyed reading any of my books I'd love it if you joined the Wonderstruck community over on Substack.

Thanks so much for reading and reviewing my books, I really appreciate it!

Siobhan

Substack: siobhancurham.substack.com
Facebook: Siobhan Curham Author
Instagram: @SiobhanCurhamAuthor
Twitter: @SiobhanCurham

For more information about my books, mentoring and courses, please visit: http://www.siobhancurham.com

Reviews

[linda hole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Family secrets, heartbreaking choices. Dual timeline. Close friendship and Grief. I really enjoyed it, but for me it was a little too early to read about the Ukrainian invasiion. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

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

A beautiful and interesting novel. Siobhan genre of historical fiction is perfection. A unique plot, beautiful words and engaging novel that I loved and will recommend highly.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society is a very timely story, even though it is told in a dual timeline. The story is set in Ukraine, in the city of Lviv, Liwow, or Lemberg as it's various incarnations occur. For those of you who don't know a lot about Ukranian history, it has been part of Russia, occupied by both Russia and Germany during WW2, Part of the USSR, finally an independent country, and once again Russia is trying to take it over again.

The past storyline is set between 1940 to 1945, while the present is set beginning in 2022, all in the same city, in fact, in the same building. Zirka is running her mother's sewing store after her death, but when war breaks out and Germany is marching through Poland, they will reach the Ukraine soon. Zirka's cousin, Perla, who she has never met, is Jewish. Her parents send her from Krakow to Lviv to live with Zirka and her father. The story shares what these young women go through during the time from 1940 to 1945 when the city was occupied by the Russians, then the Germans, then the Russians again. They made vyshyvankas, the Ukrainian clothing that is colourful and symbolic, even when they weren't supposed to. They were, "The Needles of Freedom" sewing and embroidering to bring hope and luck to others. In 2022, Anastaysia's mother Viktoria had died and she finds out that she has inherited a property in the Ukraine. She decides to head there and see what it is and perhaps sell it. She connects with the home, the neighbourhood and the country immediately and decides to stay. The house is derelict as it has been empty for years. She hires someone to rennovate it, and as he does, secrets are revealed in secret hiding places. Even once Russia invades, Ana decides to stay.

This is a much longer book than I normally read (489 pgs.) but it didn't seem like it. I was pulled into this story and read every possible moment that I could. Both timelines were equally engaging and I liked all three of the women in the story. Did they make mistakes? Yes. Were there times they were frustrating, Yes. They were brave, at times naive, loving, caring and women that I would love to meet. I don't remember reading anything set during this time in The Ukraine, and with the war with Russia ongoing, it brought it home to me. There are many secrets about Zirka and Perla that are revealed, but not all at once, they are gradually shared, as clues and items are found in the house. Much told through Perla's diary. Siobhan Curham's writing was wonderful. It was real and emotional. If you enjoy historical fiction, then I highly recommend The Secret Sewing Society, but make sure you have tissue handy.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can always, always count on Siobhan Curham to write a deeply moving, intriguing and historically rich novel.

This 5-star historical fiction novel centers around the fight for Ukraine’s freedom.

Choosing two timelines, the former Soviet occupation of Ukraine and the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, added to the success of this story. In both cases, readers become aware of the fortitude and strength of these people, as well as the many forms of their resistance.

I learned about Vyshyvankas and how they were reclaimed as an act of resistance, Holodomor, and ghost signs. I also realized that during wartime, life and love aren’t as black and white as we’d like them to be, and that choices made have different outcomes than during peacetime.

I appreciated the message that God’s path is seldom easy, but it is always lit with courage.

This binge-worthy novel is one historical fiction lovers will want on their reading list!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Melissa * bookedwithmel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read set in Ukraine during WWII. The multiple timelines really make the story. In the present timeline, Ana goes to Ukraine after her mother dies to learn about her grandmother’s history. The past timeline unfolds as Ana finds more details about her family’s history.

Perla seeks refuge with her cousin Zirka during the war. What starts as an unsteady relationship becomes a connection that was unbreakable.

Ana’s timeline was during the occupation of Ukraine in 2022. As much as that was my favorite timeline, it was also hard to read about how the area was affected. Reading about war and unrest in the far past is much different than reading about a time I’ve lived during.

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Siobhan Curham is back with her latest book, The Secret Sewing Society. It has the most beautiful cover with a very striking image which is symbolic of the themes throughout the book. It was so refreshing to see a book based on World War Two that had a different setting in this case Ukraine. Siobhan did a phenomenal job throughout of bringing the history and culture of this beautiful yet troubled country to life and it was only as I was reading the end notes did I discover the connection she has to Ukraine which made this read all the more poignant. This is a work of fiction although heavily rooted in fact and you read through the chapters with a growing sense of dismay that war is happening again. Everything we have seen and heard on the news helps you connect to the events described throughout. But you desperately wish this wasn’t the case. I’d have loved nothing more than to be reading the more modern day point of view without the main character having to endure conflict, danger and terror but sadly this can’t be the case. But we live in the hopes that one day soon this will come to fruition.

Told in the dual timeline format the story moves back and forth between WW2 and the present day and the similarities between both time periods are very striking but for all the wrong reasons. History is once again repeating itself in modern times and it quickly becomes evident that this country has for many years endured periods of invasion where the Ukrainian spirit and culture is under threat of being quashed and eradicated but the secret society of the title is determined not to let this happen and will play their bit in the country’s fight for freedom using their messages of bravery, strength, love and courage. The chapters are short and snappy providing just enough information to whet your appetite yet at the same time the detail is rich and informative before the end of each chapter moves you back to the present or vice versa. At no point did I feel there were any lulls in the book but it also wasn’t jam packed with action and reveals throughout. It didn’t need to be at all and I was grateful that this wasn’t the case. Instead, the characters are allowed to develop and you can really get inside their hearts and minds and understand their motivations and actions.

In the present day, 2022, Ana is feeling a bit of the empty nest syndrome as her son has left for America. She remains in England facing the challenges of her mother Viktoria entering the final phases of her dementia battle. Ana reluctantly visits her in the nursing home but the experience is never pleasant as Viktoria had treated her with contempt and disdain throughout her life and the disparaging comments persists despite her illness. Why had Viktoria found it so hard to love Ana and why did she have a bad relationship with her own mother Zirka whom Ana was more or less brought up by? In a moment of lucidity and warmth Viktoria tells Ana to take a battered old chocolate tin and within it lays an apology and the news that she has been she has been left a property in Lviv, Ukraine. Viktoria passes away and Ana travels to Lviv beginning a journey of finding herself in the present and reconciling events from the past.

I enjoyed reading of Ana’s story as she tries to piece together just what the property was and why she has been left it. But news breaks that the Russians are attacking and this initially turns everything upside down but she more than made the best of a terrible situation. Given Lviv proximity to the Polish boarder she felt she was safe enough that she could remain and transform the property enough to make it habitable. I thought she was mad to be honest, staying on given what circumstances were unfolding but the ties to the past and finding out the truth about both her mother and grandmothers heritage were enough to make her want to stay. She soon discovers the shop was once run by her grandmother Zirka as an embroidery and dress making store and given her own love of fashion design and as certain things are discovered a remarkable story of resistance, dedication and strength begins to emerge she starts to bring the shop back to life. In doing so, she finds pieces of herself she hadn’t fully realised were missing and along the way a romantic element emerges all thanks to her jotting down her thoughts and feelings in a journal. Here many parallels between herself and Zirka and their situations begin to emerge.

As much as I did enjoy reading about Ana in the present day and understood her inclusion to bridge the gap between past and present, it was Zirka’s story in the past that had me completely enthralled. She resides in Lwow (modern day Lviv) with her father who is a lecturer and librarian. They both still deeply mourn the passing of Zirka’s mother but she does her best to continue the tradition of the dress making shop which specialises in the vyshyrankas, the traditional Ukranian shirt in which images, symbols and messages of strength and defiance are hidden within. Zirka was a fantastic character who only grew in strength the more that was thrown at her. First the Russians invaded then retreated when the Germans arrived and life as they had known it in their beloved Ukraine irrevocably changed forever. A long lost cousin, Perla, arrives from Poland fleeing from Jewish persecution and here is were the secret sewing society of the title begins to make sense. Going back to their grandmothers time a family story emerges which makes Zirka question everything that she knew. There is a story here waiting to be told one of several throughout the book which all emerge into one heartbreaking yet fascinating conclusion which provides plenty of food for thought.

Perla was hard to warm to because of the way she acted but then I did grow to understand her more and the relationship that developed between her and Zirka was very special even if at times they rubbed each other up the wrong way and that was because of ridiculous things that Perla did. I liked how Perla’s viewpoint was told through her diary entries as it offered a different stance on things that I would have just blindly accepted had they only been told through Zirka. There is so much that happens in the element of the story focusing on the past that to say much more here would give away far too much. Suffice to say that embroidery, resistance, romance, danger, mystery and intrigue fill the pages and make for a real page turner.

The Secret Sewing Society was a brilliant read and one in which I feel I have learned so much about the history of Ukraine and how as a country and individually they still bravely battle on today in order to preserve their culture, heritage and future. I would definitely recommend this passionate, awe inspiring, heartbreaking and compelling read.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society is a beautifully woven, emotionally rich novel that moves effortlessly between past and present, stitching together a story of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds between generations of women. Siobhan Curham delivers a tale that is both sweeping in scope and intimate at heart, filled with quiet acts of rebellion and the lingering echoes of secrets long buried.

The 1940s storyline is utterly captivating. Zirka and her cousin Perla, sewing coded messages for the Ukrainian resistance under the faded gold sign of a dressmaker’s shop, bring a fresh and deeply human perspective to wartime fiction. Their world is one of candlelit danger, whispered plans, and love that must be hidden to survive. Curham handles their fear, bravery, and sisterly devotion with tenderness, making their chapters pulse with tension and hope.

In 2022, Ana’s journey to uncover her grandmother’s past adds a compelling emotional anchor. The peeling wallpaper, the forgotten diary, the little shop that still seems to hum with memory—these details create a vivid sense of place. As Ana tries to understand the rift between her mother and Zirka, she becomes a bridge between generations, carrying forward a legacy of resistance at a moment when her country once again faces unthinkable hardship.

Curham excels at exploring how the past shapes the present, and how the stories we inherit—especially the ones wrapped in silence—can define us. The dual timelines complement each other beautifully, each revelation deepening the emotional impact of the next. The novel’s themes of identity, survival, and the quiet heroism of ordinary women resonate long after the final page.

The Secret Sewing Society is heartbreaking, hopeful, and exquisitely told. Fans of Evie Woods, Fiona Valpy, and The Keeper of Happy Endings will be swept away by its atmosphere, its heart, and its celebration of women who refuse to be forgotten.

A powerful, moving read that lingers like a thread pulled tight.

My thanks to Siobhan Curham, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Stefani Higdon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where has Siobhan Curham been hiding from me?! This book definitely reinforced my love of historical fiction. I don’t usually enjoy dual timelines, but this one really worked for me and kept me invested the whole way through.

The story is told from three POVs—Ana in 2022, and Zirka and Perla in 1939—and each voice brought something different and emotional to the story. When Ana inherits a property in Ukraine from her dying mother, she discovers it was once her grandmother’s sewing shop. What begins as a simple trip becomes a journey into a past she never knew existed.

In the 1939 timeline, Zirka is already living in Ukraine, while her cousin Perla arrives after fleeing Germany, carrying her own fears and complicated history. Their relationship starts out rocky, but watching them slowly settle their differences and build a life together was one of my favorite parts of the book. Curham does a beautiful job showing how ordinary women survive extraordinary times.

In the modern timeline, Ana’s decision to stay in Ukraine during the recent invasion added an emotional weight I didn’t expect. Seeing her restore her grandmother’s shop and reconnect with a community shaped by generations of strength was incredibly moving. I loved how embroidery and sewing were used as symbols of memory, identity, and healing.

I’ll admit—I went in expecting a bit more focus on the actual “secret sewing society,” but still got a fantastic story about mothers and daughters, sacrifice, and the way history echoes through families.

This book taught me so much about Ukrainian history I’d never encountered before, and it did so through characters who felt real, flawed, and deeply human. If you love historical fiction centered on resilient women and family secrets, this one is absolutely worth picking up.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Siobhan for this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. Opinions are entirely my own.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society by Siobhan Curham is a powerful dual timeline novel set in Lviv, Ukraine.
The action is set during World War II and 2022. Both periods see Ukraine being invaded by the Russians (and also the Nazis in World War II). Fresh in the memories of the people is the Holodomor of the 1920’s when the Soviets caused a man-made famine in Ukraine. People had a strong spirit and the secret sewing society was born. “We stitch what they try to silence.” Messages of hope are sewn into clothes.
The two time periods are linked by strong females in the same family tree. In 2022 the leading lady travels from the UK to Ukraine after her mother leaves her a property that she did not know about. Whilst in Lviv the Russians invade. The leading lady decides to stay as the building slowly gives up its’ secrets.
The leading ladies in both time periods are gutsy as they stay to face their oppressors. Their stories are similar but different.
Not all Soviets are cruel. Love blossoms where it will, even when it is forbidden.
In times of war, people cling to faith. “Faith becomes very important when you know you could be killed any day.” We have to believe there is something more. People need hope and a will to survive. “In the face of so much death, she was going to live.”
We witness a character fleeing from the Nazis. “She knew what it was like to be oppressed simply because of her identity, and to have her rights taken away.” Freedom in Lviv in the 1940’s is short lived as once the Soviets march out, the Nazis march in.
All the characters were well drawn and believable.
Siobhan Curham has penned a powerful tale that consumed me from the start.
I received a free copy from the publishers for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this!! Set in Ukraine both during the Second World War, and also the present day - where yet again the Russians are fighting more or less the same war. Ana has inherited a building which she goes to inspect in person, and ends up caught in the middle of the Russian-Ukraine war while also trying to piece together the mystery of her family. I seem to be reading a lot of dual timeline stories lately and this is definitely up there with the favourites! It’s chilling to read about countries which were both under soviet and Nazi occupation at different times during the war, and how it wasn’t so black and white which of the occupying forces were the worst ones - for Zirka whose grandparents starved in the Holodomor the Soviets are the bad guys and the Germans are a welcome change, however for her Jewish cousin Perla the Soviets are the lesser of two evils!

I liked how we had the two girls’ alternating points of view during the earlier set chapters, and I really enjoyed the present day parts as well. From the safety of Australia it honestly just seems unreal to read about a country under fire in the 21st century, with such stark parallels between now and the 40s in the same neighbourhoods.

[Charlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dual story of the invasion of Ukraine.

When Ana goes to Ukraine, her goal is to discover why her estranged mother has purchased a building in the city of Lvov. Once Ana discovers that her grandmother Zirka and her aunt had lived there, she chooses to stay in a country that Russia is planning to overcome. Both her ex-husband and her son River try to dissuade her, but she commits to finding out more about her family and the shop that once occupied the building.

Parallel to Ana’s story is the story of Zirka and her Jewish cousin Perla who comes to live with Zirka and her grandfather Tato to evade the Germans who would have imprisoned her in her native country of Poland. Soon, the Russians arrive and Tato is put in prison and a Russian soldier is housed in his room. And then the Russians leave and the German army arrives.

This is a poignant story of resistance and survival by the strong women of the multiple generations in the home and the multiple invasions trying to strip their Ukraine heritage away. There are several love stories, but not all end happily. Tying them all together is the women stitching and its importance to them and the fight. It’s a great story about that fight for heritage that continues today in Ukraine.

[Kelly Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in two turbulent eras, 1939 and 2022, this novel weaves together the stories of three women connected by family, conflict and the quiet power of craft. As war spreads across Europe, Zikra welcomes her cousin Perla into her home. Perla has fled Poland in the hope of finding safety, but the cousins soon become absorbed in uncovering the remarkable tale of their grandmothers, whose embroidery once served as a subtle act of resistance.

Decades later, in 2022, Ana arrives in Lviv just as another war erupts. She has come searching for answers about her grandmother’s past and the mystery behind the abandoned sewing shop she has inherited. Her journey unfolds alongside the echoes of the earlier timeline, revealing how history repeats, reshapes and refuses to be forgotten.

This is exactly the kind of historical fiction that captivates me—multiple timelines, distinct voices, and a country whose history is often overshadowed by the more familiar narratives of Paris, London or Berlin. The novel offers a compelling insight into Ukraine’s past and present, showing how war has touched every corner of Europe and continues to shape lives today.

[Dee Groocock · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Zirka meets her cousin, Perla, things get off to a tricky start. Perla isn’t happy about being sent away from her home in Krakow, she misses her family and her boyfriend. It’s 1940 and Ukraine has been occupied by Russia.

The girls find out that their grandmothers were sewing secret messages into embroidered clothing (vyshyvankas), when Ukraine had been occupied previously. As Zirka has sewn from a young age, she teaches Perla, and they both start to sew secret messages into the same way their grandmothers did.

In 2022, Ana goes to see her mother in the care home she lives in. She rarely remembers Ana now, but for a few lucid moments, she leaves a tin to her. Ana finds that her grandmother, Zirka, left a house in Lviv. Making a big decision, Ana heads off to Lviv and decides to do up her grandmother’s home … and many hidden secrets start to emerge.

I loved this story but also found it quite difficult and emotional at times. With what is happening now in Ukraine, it does make for a tough read. I found this to also be an informative read, and I was fascinated by the secret messages sewed into clothing.

I enjoyed reading about all the secrets that dated right back in history for the family. I admired the strong women of the family, they made me feel proud.

I was fascinated with the author’s information at the end of the book. To stay in a country while it’s being bombed must have been so scary, and I felt that knowing what she had been through, gave me food for thought at the end.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Jessica Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society by Siobhan Curham was a moving and thoughtful read that I ultimately really enjoyed. The story is rich with history, especially surrounding Ukraine and the impact of war, which added a lot of depth and emotional weight to the book.

I especially liked the split timeline and the multiple character viewpoints. Seeing the story unfold through different voices made the connections feel layered and meaningful, and it kept me invested in how everything tied together. There’s also a touch of romance woven in, which complemented the heavier themes nicely without overpowering the story.

That said, the book did feel a bit long in places, and there were moments where the pacing slowed and the story seemed to stall. Still, the emotional impact and historical elements carried it through for me. Overall, this was a solid four-star read—heartfelt, informative, and worth picking up if you enjoy historical fiction with strong emotional threads.

[Luna · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔍 This historical novel tells a moving, multi-generational story about women connected by family, shared struggles, and long-hidden secrets. Set against a richly drawn historical backdrop, the narrative explores resilience, solidarity, and the strength found in unexpected places. As past and present intertwine, long-buried secrets gradually come to light, reshaping everything the characters 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 they knew and their lives across generations.

💭 A WOW book, I couldn't stop reading! The plot is beautifully constructed, emotionally engaging, and filled with moments that feel both intimate and powerful. The storytelling is gripping, and the historical setting is rich with atmosphere and heart.

📚 Read if you like: historical fiction with strong female bonds, family secrets spanning generations, emotionally driven stories.

🙏🏼 Thank you to #SiobhanCurham #NetGalley and #Bookouture for the ARC and the opportunity to read and review this wonderful story.

[Cherise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose this book because I love sewing and boy was I in for a treat! Curham’s writing style made me feel emotionally connected and invested in the story that it was hard to put down because I wanted to just keep reading. Told through a dual timeline about the war in Ukraine (both past and present) and the love of two cousins, Zirka and Perla, the secrets they shared with each other but also from one another. In the present day, Ana goes to Ukraine to hopefully uncover some family secrets left in Ukraine, only to find herself in the present day war. This story of family secrets, family loyalty, and forgiveness is one that will stay with me for a long time. I was longing for a memorable historical fiction novel and I finally found another one to add to my list of favorites! This was my first novel by Sioban Curham and it definitely won't be my last.

Thanks to NetGalley for giving me access to this book.

[Ducket Draws · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the Perla and Zirka timeline. Getting to read there story and the relationship between these two cousins was very enjoyable. Every time a chapter appeared in there name, I would get excited to read. On the other hand, the present timeline was a bit slower at times. I enjoyed reading about her discovering the history of her family and the sewing shop she had inherited. However, the overall plotline was a bit slower and I was particularly a fan of “Mak” the romantic character in the present. All in all, it was a good book and I would reccommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. If you’ve never read a historical fiction, especially one about WW2, this is a good place to start! This book isn’t too dark or descriptive and would be a great way to dive into that genre!

Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC!

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society is a beautifully written, historical fiction novel set in the Ukraine. It gripped my attention from the very beginning, with its dual timeline and wonderfully strong female characters. The story weaves together the lives of cousins, Zirka and Perla during WW2 and Ana living in occupied Ukraine, 2022. The use of traditional Ukrainian embroidery - vyshyvanka, is the thread that holds multiple generations of the women together, as they support the resistance with hidden messages. A fascinating story of friendship, love, resilience, loss, family traditions and secrets.
A must read for lovers of historical fiction.
I will definitely be looking for other books by this author!
Thank you to Bookouture for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Chelsea Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society by Siobhan Curham is a poignant dual-timeline novel that beautifully weaves together female resistance in WWII-era Ukraine and a modern family mystery in 2022 Lviv.

Why it’s great:
Inspiring Resistance: The "secret messages" sewn into garments add a unique, tactile layer to the history of the Ukrainian resistance.
Emotional Depth: It's a raw, heartbreaking look at female friendship and the survival of family secrets across generations.
Relevant Setting: Setting the modern arc in 2022 adds a powerful, timely resonance to the historical struggle.

The trade-offs:
Slow Start: The initial world-building takes time to gain momentum.
Heavy Themes: The overlapping tragedies of two different war eras make for an emotionally taxing (though rewarding) read.

A moving 4-star pick for fans of Historical Fiction and stories of unsung heroines.

[Chantal Agapiti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading outside of my comfort zone since last year, I’ve grown fond of Historical Fiction.
And this book has only confirmed that feeling.

A tale about courageous women through time, women from different generations belonging to the same family.
The author tells it through three female main characters in a dual timeline:
- Perla and Zirka during WWII
- Ana today

Both timelines are set in Lviv, Ukraine making it so heartbreaking that they’re still fighting for their freedom even as we speak.
A people so proud and full of the will to live, that they inspire us all beyond fictional tales.

This book is about a family’s secret, and a granddaughter on her path of discovery.
A discovery of her present and future self, and the missing pieces of her family’s puzzle.

It’s a compelling read, which I recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this opportunity.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a very good book that I sped through in just a few days. It primarily centers on the wars in Ukraine, now and during the Nazi and Russian occupations during WW2. The characters are strong women who use sewing as a means of protest.

The narration of the book shifts among 3 related people in these 2 time periods, but also involves the actions of 2 cousins from a previous generation who started the sewing society. Initially, I found the 3 layers a bit confusing but I soon was able to follow.

This is a timely book about Ukraine and the quest for freedom. It made me feel the pain of the Ukrainians now and in earlier times.

I recommend this book and will definitely search out the previous historical novels of the author.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this is a powerful and gripping novel that sweeps you into Ukraine during WW2 and the recent invasion. It’s the first dual timeline story I’ve read set in Ukraine and Siobhan did a fantastic job capturing the culture, setting, history and the present. It was interesting how the embroidery and sewing symbolized the resistance and healing of generations. The Secret Sewing Society is an emotional novel that weaved a beautiful story of love, loss, friendship and rebellion as family secrets are slowly revealed.
I loved this book so much that i bought the audiobook. Amy Noble did a wonderful job bringing the characters and story to life.
I would like to thank the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.
#TheSecretSewingSociety #NetGalley.

[PamelaF1998 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a frequent reader of both fiction and nonfiction about World War II, and this book immediately caught my attention because it explores Ukraine during WWII as well as its current war with Russia. I don’t often come across dual–timeline novels where the present-day events are as dramatic as the historical ones. This book does an excellent job depicting the Russia–Ukraine war and showing how it affects everyday citizens. I also learned a great deal about the Russian soldiers who originally captured Lviv and the hardships they placed on the local population. I have read Siobhan Curham’s novels before, and like her previous books, this one did not disappoint. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great. A tear jerker. I don't usually have time to review but this demands it. Even if you have never learned anything about this part of Europe you will understand where the Ukrainian people got the nerve and desire to stand up to Russia when they attacked for at least the second time. All the countries in this part of the world have changed borders and dictators so often they crave strongly to be free. They will do whatever it takes. They prefer not to die but they will just to have not to live in terror all the time. I think everyone should read this book to better understand what is in the news. I read it because there is a remote chance I might have relations in this part of the world. I spent much to much time reading this story but could not put the book down. Highly recommend.

[Dawn Lawrence Read_with_Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society was fantastic, what a way to finish 2025! I loved this book so much, the story was interesting and had me hanging on to every word. It felt so different to other WW2 novels because it was a dual timeline story and so current. Ukraine in WW2 and the current conflict with Russia, this made it seem so real as part of the story is happening now. It was a story of heartbreak, love, friendship, family and loyalty, it was sensitively and. Beautifully written and I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It’s one of my favourite reads of 2025! Publication date 26 January 2026.

[ABain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of an advance copy received from Netgalley

I really enjoyed this story, although the pacing was slower at first, I quickly became invested and ended up reading far faster than I expected.

It was told through a dual timeline of Ana inheriting a house in Lviv in 2022 and her Grandmother Zirka's experience in 1940. The structure was easy to follow and had short chapters that worked really well.

The story is clearly well researched, and although it was heartbreaking, it was also a story of hope and the possibility of a better future.

Overall this was a powerful and memorable read.

Thank you to Bookouture for providing this book for review via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Sewing Society by Siobhan Curham has a dual timeline that reads so real and believable. Taking place in the Ukraine, this well written story travels between the 1940’s and present time from several character’s perspectives. The stories and experiences of Lviv in present day Ukraine and her grandmother in WWII are stitched together. They are women with strong courage, enduring hardships, experiencing heartaches yet still making a difference. The conflict may have changed but women’s grit and grace has not. An unforgettable story that will stay with you long after you finish reading the last page.

[Lorna Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Siobhan Curham and Bookouture for my physical copy to read and review.
1939 and Zikra has been joined by her cousin Perla as the war begins to march across Europe. Perla is Jewish and she leaves her family in Poland in the hope that she will be safe in her cousin’s house. The two girls are intrigued by the story of their grandmothers and how they used embroidery as an act of resistance in the past.
2022 and Ana is visiting Lviv when the war breaks out. She is there to find out what happened to her grandmother and why her mother left her a derelict old sewing shop.
This is exactly the kind of historical fiction that I love. This story has different timelines when Ukraine is facing very difficult challenges. It also goes back in the history of the Ukraine with the girls’ grandmothers own story. It also has different voices – we hear from both Perla and Zerka during WW2 and from Ana in 2022.
Historical fiction that gives me an insight into a different country or a different story is fascinating. Whilst we all know about Paris and London and Berlin, it is good to hear how the war engulfed every corner of Europe. And how places in the Ukraine are still facing war today.
This book teaches us about the value of family, the challenges and heartbreak of war and about secrets that have to be kept. It reminds us of war – past and present so that we never forget.
A fantastic read for historical fictions fans. Ideal for lovers of Mandy Robotham and Anna Stuart.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ana was raised by her grandmother, Zirka, and she doesn't have a good relationship with her mother, Viktoria, who is suffering from dementia. In a lucid moment before she dies Ana feels close to her and in her will she has given her property in the Ukraine. I found Zirka's story during WW2 interesting. Her and her cousin, Perla, were Needles for Freedom, something that was started by their own grandmothers. Ana finds that the property used to belong to her family and really her part of the story was finding clues. It's a longish book at 464 pages and probably would have done just as well being shorter and taking out the whole Ana part.

[Sarahlovesbooks76 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a dual timeline story, set in Ukraine in World War II, and in the modern day - both time periods see the country being invaded by Russia.

In the modern day, Ana has inherited a building in Lviv, and through various discoveries, begins to learn more about her grandmother and other relatives. The story is powerful as it is relatable with current events being written about - it is very well researched, and I enjoyed learning more about Ukranian clothing and the hidden meaning of embroidery.

A beautifully written book, with the subject matter emotive and sensitively handled.