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The Invisible Woman
In the depths of war, she would defy the odds to help liberate a nation...a gripping historical novel based on a remarkable true story from the bestselling author of Hemingway's Girl
France, March 1944. Virginia Hall wasn't like the other young society women back home in Baltimore--she never wanted the debutante ball or silk gloves. Instead, she traded a safe life for adventure in Europe, and when her beloved second home is thrust into the dark days of war, she leaps in headfirst.
Once she's recruited as an Allied spy, subverting the Nazis becomes her calling. But even the most cunning agent can be bested, and in wartime trusting the wrong person can prove fatal. Virginia is haunted every day by the betrayal that ravaged her first operation, and will do everything in her power to avenge the brave people she lost.
While her future is anything but certain, this time more than ever Virginia knows that failure is not an option. Especially when she discovers what--and whom--she's truly protecting.
Listening length: 10 hours, 30 minutes
France, March 1944. Virginia Hall wasn't like the other young society women back home in Baltimore--she never wanted the debutante ball or silk gloves. Instead, she traded a safe life for adventure in Europe, and when her beloved second home is thrust into the dark days of war, she leaps in headfirst.
Once she's recruited as an Allied spy, subverting the Nazis becomes her calling. But even the most cunning agent can be bested, and in wartime trusting the wrong person can prove fatal. Virginia is haunted every day by the betrayal that ravaged her first operation, and will do everything in her power to avenge the brave people she lost.
While her future is anything but certain, this time more than ever Virginia knows that failure is not an option. Especially when she discovers what--and whom--she's truly protecting.
Listening length: 10 hours, 30 minutes
353 pages, Paperback
First published February 9, 2021
708 people are currently reading
17604 people want to read
About the author
Erika Robuck
12 books1,364 followersErika Robuck is the national bestselling author of historical fiction including THE LAST TWELVE MILES and THE INVISIBLE WOMAN. In 2024 she was named a Maryland Writer’s Association Notable Writer and won the Anne Arundel County Arts Council Literary Award. A photography enthusiast, she resides in Annapolis with her husband and three sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 703 reviews
August 10, 2023
The Invisible Woman by Erika Robuck, narrated by Caroline Hewitt
American Virginia Hall worked as an Allied spy during WWII. For her heroic actions she received the Distinguished Service Cross (the only one awarded to a civilian woman in World War II), was awarded the Croix de Guerre by France, and she was made an honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire. The Invisible Woman mostly focuses on her work from March 1944 to the end of the war, while sometimes taking us back to her earlier war days, via flashbacks. By the time we meet Virginia (codename Diane) she has hardened her heart and mind due to the massive loss of life she's witnessed and her great feelings of guilt over many of those losses.
By 1944 the Gestapo considered Virginia the most dangerous of Allied spies and her wanted poster was plastered all over France. Due to having lost the lower part of her left leg, Virginia wore a wooden leg and walked with a limp, a very serious impediment when it came to avoiding notice by anyone looking for her. But Virginia was a master of disguise and would transform herself into an old woman, thus allowing her limp to become just a part of her decrepit old lady disguise.
This audiobook sent me off for more information about Virginia. It's so easy to see how this high achieving woman would take each and every death, of those who depended on her, to heart. But she couldn't "care", couldn't allow feelings to interfere with the hard decisions she had to make every single day. She was responsible for getting supplies and weapons to the French resistance and also responsible for helping to train the men for an enemy that would get even more brutal once they knew defeat was on the horizon.
This story brought to life so much more than all that Virginia did to further the Allied cause. We see the roadblocks she faced because she was a woman sent to train and supply men. While the various factions needed to work together, many were not at all willing to listen to a woman, an old woman. Often she could win them over once they could see just how much she was able to do for them and how much she was willing to risk for them. As a wireless operator during the last part of the war, Virginia was the link to supplies and weapons that were the only hope against an enemy that was destroying every man, woman, or child in their path.
This is a remarkable story but it doesn't just tell Virginia's story. Even though people and events were often combined or altered from real life, the fight had countless named and unnamed heroes, risking and giving their lives to defend, hide, transport, and save thousands. This story left me wanting to know more about people who fought to save others during this time and place in our history.
Pub Feb 9, 2021
American Virginia Hall worked as an Allied spy during WWII. For her heroic actions she received the Distinguished Service Cross (the only one awarded to a civilian woman in World War II), was awarded the Croix de Guerre by France, and she was made an honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire. The Invisible Woman mostly focuses on her work from March 1944 to the end of the war, while sometimes taking us back to her earlier war days, via flashbacks. By the time we meet Virginia (codename Diane) she has hardened her heart and mind due to the massive loss of life she's witnessed and her great feelings of guilt over many of those losses.
By 1944 the Gestapo considered Virginia the most dangerous of Allied spies and her wanted poster was plastered all over France. Due to having lost the lower part of her left leg, Virginia wore a wooden leg and walked with a limp, a very serious impediment when it came to avoiding notice by anyone looking for her. But Virginia was a master of disguise and would transform herself into an old woman, thus allowing her limp to become just a part of her decrepit old lady disguise.
This audiobook sent me off for more information about Virginia. It's so easy to see how this high achieving woman would take each and every death, of those who depended on her, to heart. But she couldn't "care", couldn't allow feelings to interfere with the hard decisions she had to make every single day. She was responsible for getting supplies and weapons to the French resistance and also responsible for helping to train the men for an enemy that would get even more brutal once they knew defeat was on the horizon.
This story brought to life so much more than all that Virginia did to further the Allied cause. We see the roadblocks she faced because she was a woman sent to train and supply men. While the various factions needed to work together, many were not at all willing to listen to a woman, an old woman. Often she could win them over once they could see just how much she was able to do for them and how much she was willing to risk for them. As a wireless operator during the last part of the war, Virginia was the link to supplies and weapons that were the only hope against an enemy that was destroying every man, woman, or child in their path.
This is a remarkable story but it doesn't just tell Virginia's story. Even though people and events were often combined or altered from real life, the fight had countless named and unnamed heroes, risking and giving their lives to defend, hide, transport, and save thousands. This story left me wanting to know more about people who fought to save others during this time and place in our history.
Pub Feb 9, 2021
May 11, 2021
3 ½ rounded up to 4
I’ve read several books about women spies during WWII but was glad that this one featured an American working with the French resistance. Virginia Hall was an American who was residing in France and became part of the United Kingdom's Special Operations Executive.
I found Virginia Hall’s background story to be very interesting but wish that it was laid out beforehand rather than interspersed within the story. I found that stopped the flow of the novel at times. The fact that Ms. Hall was even allowed to do her work while having a prosthetic leg, is a testament to her strength, determination and bravery.
I found that some parts pf the novel grew repetitive. Finding an appropriate place for a drop site, then getting the people to believe that the Allies were REALLY GOING TO HELP THIS TIME!! Many of these people had been promised that the Allies were coming many times. She then has to set up the drop site with HQ and wait for the right weather to deliver the supplies.All of this depends also on her ability to transmit from just the right place.
The part of the story that really touched my heart were the people of the town that helped hide Jewish children, literally thousands of them!
I loved this description of the French liberation “Liberation does not happen all at once. It’s many small swells leading up to the crest of a wave breaking on the shore of freedom. Then it retreats and builds again, crashing over and over”. Beautiful prose.
The Epilogue showcases the trial of Robert Alesch which detailed his “hideous war crimes, the mistresses he keeps, and the wealth he accumulated from turning over Resistance members to the Nazis for money”. “Once the resistors were arrested, Alesch would break into their apartments and steal their belongings, including thousands of francs’ worth of furniture, art, and jewels.
The Afterword by the author reveals a wealth of information and details including which facts and people are real and which were fiction based on true events.
I agree with the blurb for this book, if you read only one more book about WWII this year, it should be this one. This is the story of a true American heroine and her name needs to be known!
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley.
I’ve read several books about women spies during WWII but was glad that this one featured an American working with the French resistance. Virginia Hall was an American who was residing in France and became part of the United Kingdom's Special Operations Executive.
I found Virginia Hall’s background story to be very interesting but wish that it was laid out beforehand rather than interspersed within the story. I found that stopped the flow of the novel at times. The fact that Ms. Hall was even allowed to do her work while having a prosthetic leg, is a testament to her strength, determination and bravery.
I found that some parts pf the novel grew repetitive. Finding an appropriate place for a drop site, then getting the people to believe that the Allies were REALLY GOING TO HELP THIS TIME!! Many of these people had been promised that the Allies were coming many times. She then has to set up the drop site with HQ and wait for the right weather to deliver the supplies.All of this depends also on her ability to transmit from just the right place.
The part of the story that really touched my heart were the people of the town that helped hide Jewish children, literally thousands of them!
I loved this description of the French liberation “Liberation does not happen all at once. It’s many small swells leading up to the crest of a wave breaking on the shore of freedom. Then it retreats and builds again, crashing over and over”. Beautiful prose.
The Epilogue showcases the trial of Robert Alesch which detailed his “hideous war crimes, the mistresses he keeps, and the wealth he accumulated from turning over Resistance members to the Nazis for money”. “Once the resistors were arrested, Alesch would break into their apartments and steal their belongings, including thousands of francs’ worth of furniture, art, and jewels.
The Afterword by the author reveals a wealth of information and details including which facts and people are real and which were fiction based on true events.
I agree with the blurb for this book, if you read only one more book about WWII this year, it should be this one. This is the story of a true American heroine and her name needs to be known!
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley.
May 13, 2020
Dear Reader,
I've long been writing about American authors and the women in the shadows of their success. While researching my next forgotten wife, an editor asked, "Instead of writing another 'wife-of-famous-man' book, why not write about a woman who is remarkable on her own?" That stopped me in my tracks.
Around that time, Virginia Hall entered my radar in a way I can’t pinpoint, and she’s been haunting me ever since. Virginia is not only a remarkable woman from history who grew up where I did (we are both from Maryland), but she is so extraordinary—in her own right—she could launch a subgenre of “husband-of-famous-woman” books.
I can't wait for you to read about her unimaginable courage and bravery.
Sincerely,
Erika Robuck
I've long been writing about American authors and the women in the shadows of their success. While researching my next forgotten wife, an editor asked, "Instead of writing another 'wife-of-famous-man' book, why not write about a woman who is remarkable on her own?" That stopped me in my tracks.
Around that time, Virginia Hall entered my radar in a way I can’t pinpoint, and she’s been haunting me ever since. Virginia is not only a remarkable woman from history who grew up where I did (we are both from Maryland), but she is so extraordinary—in her own right—she could launch a subgenre of “husband-of-famous-woman” books.
I can't wait for you to read about her unimaginable courage and bravery.
Sincerely,
Erika Robuck
February 8, 2021
I love books about real people and events. I love learning things from them that I never knew before. Prior to reading this book, I had no idea who Virginia Hall was or that she was a pioneering agent of the United Kingdom's Special Operations Executive. She was an American who became the first female agent to take up residence in France. A young woman from Baltimore who found her calling as an Allied Spy working to stop the Nazis.
The Invisible Woman tells her story and those she worked with. She was brave and took many risks. She was incredible brave and cunning. The research that went into the writing was extensive and impressive. The reader will come away both educated and enlightened. Virginia Hall is yet another example of a person rising above shining. She was an ordinary person doing the extraordinary. Reading about her had me wondering, would I have been that brave? Could I have been a spy? Where does someone find it inside of them, to look danger in the face and keep going.
Fans of historical fiction and war books will enjoy this book.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Invisible Woman tells her story and those she worked with. She was brave and took many risks. She was incredible brave and cunning. The research that went into the writing was extensive and impressive. The reader will come away both educated and enlightened. Virginia Hall is yet another example of a person rising above shining. She was an ordinary person doing the extraordinary. Reading about her had me wondering, would I have been that brave? Could I have been a spy? Where does someone find it inside of them, to look danger in the face and keep going.
Fans of historical fiction and war books will enjoy this book.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 31, 2021
3.5 STARS
Virginia Hall ( a real life WWII agent) was such a courageous woman and spy working to bring down the Nazi's. It is her second operation to help arm the French Resistance. She took many risks and there were moments in the novel that felt like I was beside her (holding my breath) as she put herself in dangerous situations, amongst the enemy.
Who do you trust? You can't make mistakes as a spy, it could be deadly.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and details of her missions and heroism. The pacing wasn't consistent throughout the story and some of the flashbacks were distracting to me, but well worth the read!
Thanks NG for my advanced copy. Book is OUT on February 9, 2021
September 25, 2021
A great story about Virginia Hall, an American (OSS) spy who was sent to France in WWII to work in the resistance. Well worth reading.
February 6, 2021
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
3,5 ⭐️
Historical fiction is not my usual go to genre but once in a while I read one that makes me wonder why I don't read more of these. A few years back I became quite saturated with WWII novels as they all seemed to be told from the same perspective. "The invisible woman" is also a WWII novel, but in this case the focus is all set in an amazing character I had never heard about, Virginia Hall, an American who worked with the United Kingdom's clandestine Special Operations Executive and the American Office of Strategic Services in France during nazi occupation. Her mission was to ally with Resistance groups, the Maquis, and supply them with weapons, equipment and training.
I was quite impressed with the level of research this novel entailed. Not only is Virginia a real character, but most of the characters and situations were drawn from real life too. You never realize the tremendous amount of research the author did till one reads the author's note, where she tells about all these people's fates.
The story was riveting, the prose style really strong and Virginia's character really came to life throughout the novel. Her bravery and courage permeated every page. She was portrayed as strong and daring, but also a bit cold and unemotional. I understand she must have to be cold and detached in her situation, but I missed to see more of her emotional side. My favorite moments were when she showed emotion especially with all the women she met during her time in France. I was moved to tears in some moments.
Although the book held my attention for the whole time there were a couple of cons that made me downgrade my whole rating. On one side there was way too many characters that made it a bit difficult to keep track of all the names; and on the other I missed for the story to have more of a plot. All the parts repeated the same structure (Virginia arriving in a new group and working along them) so some scenes were a bit repetitive (we witness how they prepare and receive several drops), while the plot lines that hinted at her past and would have required more continuity were quickly resolved in the last pages (with one of them not being resolved until the author's note).
All in all, a very interesting historical fiction novel that will help readers to discover a fascinating female figure.
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
3,5 ⭐️
Historical fiction is not my usual go to genre but once in a while I read one that makes me wonder why I don't read more of these. A few years back I became quite saturated with WWII novels as they all seemed to be told from the same perspective. "The invisible woman" is also a WWII novel, but in this case the focus is all set in an amazing character I had never heard about, Virginia Hall, an American who worked with the United Kingdom's clandestine Special Operations Executive and the American Office of Strategic Services in France during nazi occupation. Her mission was to ally with Resistance groups, the Maquis, and supply them with weapons, equipment and training.
I was quite impressed with the level of research this novel entailed. Not only is Virginia a real character, but most of the characters and situations were drawn from real life too. You never realize the tremendous amount of research the author did till one reads the author's note, where she tells about all these people's fates.
The story was riveting, the prose style really strong and Virginia's character really came to life throughout the novel. Her bravery and courage permeated every page. She was portrayed as strong and daring, but also a bit cold and unemotional. I understand she must have to be cold and detached in her situation, but I missed to see more of her emotional side. My favorite moments were when she showed emotion especially with all the women she met during her time in France. I was moved to tears in some moments.
Although the book held my attention for the whole time there were a couple of cons that made me downgrade my whole rating. On one side there was way too many characters that made it a bit difficult to keep track of all the names; and on the other I missed for the story to have more of a plot. All the parts repeated the same structure (Virginia arriving in a new group and working along them) so some scenes were a bit repetitive (we witness how they prepare and receive several drops), while the plot lines that hinted at her past and would have required more continuity were quickly resolved in the last pages (with one of them not being resolved until the author's note).
All in all, a very interesting historical fiction novel that will help readers to discover a fascinating female figure.
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2021
A riveting story about a remarkable woman. The strength, resilience and compassion of people never fails to amaze me. This is the fictional story of a real lif hero Virginia Hall. Virginia was an American working for the UK as an ally spy at the end of WWII. Working behind enemy lines in France helping get supplies and weapons to the French resistance. The story was informative, compelling, and heartbreaking. The bravery and tenacity of the French people was commendable.
Whenever I read a story like this I always question how I would behave in the same situation. Would I have the same strength and resilience as the characters in this book? Virginia lived a comfortable life in Baltimore, what drove her to sacrifice her life for the French people? She knew going in the average lifespan of an ally spy in France was six weeks., And yet that did not deter her. Virginia was hard to get to know both by the reader and those around her. She took her job extremely seriously as I would imagine was necessary for survival. She never let anyone too close and never showed anything in the way of emotion. And yet you just knew she had a big heart by the way she connected with the other characters in the story, especially the other women and the children. If you are like me and a little burned out on WWII stories I strongly recommend you pick this one up. I learned so much I did not previously know and appreciated that not only Virginia but most of the other characters were based on real life people. Well researched and well told.
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Whenever I read a story like this I always question how I would behave in the same situation. Would I have the same strength and resilience as the characters in this book? Virginia lived a comfortable life in Baltimore, what drove her to sacrifice her life for the French people? She knew going in the average lifespan of an ally spy in France was six weeks., And yet that did not deter her. Virginia was hard to get to know both by the reader and those around her. She took her job extremely seriously as I would imagine was necessary for survival. She never let anyone too close and never showed anything in the way of emotion. And yet you just knew she had a big heart by the way she connected with the other characters in the story, especially the other women and the children. If you are like me and a little burned out on WWII stories I strongly recommend you pick this one up. I learned so much I did not previously know and appreciated that not only Virginia but most of the other characters were based on real life people. Well researched and well told.
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
January 29, 2021
Who is Virginia Hall? Or rather, where is she? Disguised as an old woman, she moves undetected through France assisting multiple groups of the Maquis. She is a 'pianist'. Communicating with HQ to set up drops of supplies under the full moon. She is a mentor for hundreds of young men who need direction. She is waiting for D-Day and the opportunity to overthrow the Nazis and liberate France. She is also a woman who cannot serve in the armed forces alongside her trainees. She is a woman with a limp--accomplishing amazing amounts of spycraft with a prosthetic leg. This is her story. Erika Robuck focuses on her movements and accomplishments during 1944, a pivotal year in France's history of WW II. We are also given glimpses of her time in foreign embassies, her hunting accident resulting in the loss of part of her leg, and her future. You may have read about her in her biography, 'A Woman of No Importance.' Here is another opportunity to spend time in Virginia's world. Perfect for fans of Pam Jenoff, 'The Book of Lost Names,' and 'Code Name Helene.'
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2021
Who was Virginia Hall? Well, once you read The Invisible Woman, you will never forget her name. Virginia, code name Diane was the most formidable force within the Special Operation Executive (SOE) organization. Tasked with conducting espionage, sabotage, and reconnaissance in Nazi infested France, Virginia became an expert in organizing resistance movements. Virginia’s unfaltering courage and self sacrifice will be remembered once you finish the novel.
A heavy hitter of historical fiction, The Invisible Woman took me a while to get through to the finish. There were so many characters with real names along with code names, so that slowed my reading somewhat. However, it is that depth of characters that really tied the narrative together.
The Invisible Woman kept me on the edge of my seat, with impending doom around every corner. I still have goosebumps just thinking about Virginia’s trials, tribulations, and grief from the loss of some of her comrades. I experienced tears of joy and sadness while reading the book and I just cannot imagine how she overcame all of the obstacles that faced her.
The author, Erica Robuck, has done a fantastic job of researching the life and times of Virginia Hall and compiling all of that research into an exceptional historical fiction.
An unforgettable read, The Invisible Woman will leave a lasting impression on its readers. Five stars. Extraordinary.
I received a digital ARC of The Invisible Woman from Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
A heavy hitter of historical fiction, The Invisible Woman took me a while to get through to the finish. There were so many characters with real names along with code names, so that slowed my reading somewhat. However, it is that depth of characters that really tied the narrative together.
The Invisible Woman kept me on the edge of my seat, with impending doom around every corner. I still have goosebumps just thinking about Virginia’s trials, tribulations, and grief from the loss of some of her comrades. I experienced tears of joy and sadness while reading the book and I just cannot imagine how she overcame all of the obstacles that faced her.
The author, Erica Robuck, has done a fantastic job of researching the life and times of Virginia Hall and compiling all of that research into an exceptional historical fiction.
An unforgettable read, The Invisible Woman will leave a lasting impression on its readers. Five stars. Extraordinary.
I received a digital ARC of The Invisible Woman from Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 2, 2020
In The Invisible Woman, Erika Robuck shows us exactly how biographical fiction should be written: with respect for the historical record, a deep understanding of the subject, and the empathy to allow the character at the heart of the novel to shine through. Virginia Hall was a true hero and she comes to extraordinary life in this book. I loved everything about it, from Virginia’s bravery to her frailties, to the enthralling evocation of life with the French Resistance during WWII, to the incredible courage of the ordinary people who fought for freedom and who are honoured here. If you only read one WWII book this year, make it this one.
February 9, 2021
Master historical fiction writer Erika Robuck is back with this epic story, inspired by true events, of Virginia Hall, the American woman who overcame great odds to serve as an Allied spy during World War II.
December 20, 2020
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book. I am grateful for a chance to review it, although review may be a generous descriptor. More like a plea for someone to adapt this into a Netflix movie or series.
Breaking down this novel I can break it down into technical details such as prose style and characters in which it is very strong. And plotting and sheer storytelling, where it is also strong
The invisible woman is a historical biographical novel which sounds almost as daunting a read as it might be to produce. Yet Erika Robuck does an exceptional job setting the scene, introducing the characters and including some emotion into the narrative without making it sickly saccharine and forced.
Overall a really good novel I highly recommend to read and hopefully watch one day.
Breaking down this novel I can break it down into technical details such as prose style and characters in which it is very strong. And plotting and sheer storytelling, where it is also strong
The invisible woman is a historical biographical novel which sounds almost as daunting a read as it might be to produce. Yet Erika Robuck does an exceptional job setting the scene, introducing the characters and including some emotion into the narrative without making it sickly saccharine and forced.
Overall a really good novel I highly recommend to read and hopefully watch one day.
February 4, 2021
One thing I have learned about reading historical fiction. That is I learn about situations and people that I never once heard about while in school. In the case of this book, The Invisible Woman, I am honored to have met Viginia Hall Goillot. How one of America's most important spies during World War II has only just become to be recognized is difficult to believe. To jump ahead in her career years after the war, she became an agent for the CIA and she is recognized in their annals, but not so for the general public.
Who was Virginia Hall and how did she become a fearless spy at a time hiding would have been a better option? Actually, she was an American, safe from Hitler and his annihilation of millions. A bit more about Virginia. In a hunting accident, she shot off her foot. So, how did an American woman, at a time when prosthetic devices were still rather crude, end up working vigorously with the French Resistance?
Virginia was a brilliant woman who went to two colleges and became quite adept at language. Eventually she went to study in Paris and chose to become a diplomat. It was rare for a woman to become a diplomat at that time and her application for the job was rejected time and again. Then World War II broke out and the Nazis invaded France. Although Virginia was forced to flee France, and ended up in Britain, she met a spy and her life forever changed. Posing as a reporter, Virginia took on many different appearances and worked with a network that fought against the Nazi regime. This job was incredibly dangerous and many agents lost their lives.
The Nazis were onto her and tried to capture her. The danger she faced never once let up. Safe houses along the way, along with many loyal people, kept her alive. Virginia kept working towards the goal of D Day. She knew if that day were ever to happen, then Hitler and his cronies could finally be put to a stop.
What an incredible story! Not only did I inhale this book by Erika Robuck, but I read whatever I could find about this amazing woman. There are other books being produced and even a feature film is being planned. I will be there for all of it. This is the kind of history that keeps me coming back to historical fiction.
What makes this work of fiction work for me is the fact that the author did exhaustive research in order to pen this story. Quite naturally literary license had to be taken, but the book was written with intelligence and integrity. I feel the readers are getting a very good story with this book and it most certainly comes highly recommended from me. Reading the Afterword in this book gave me great appreciation for all of the effort that was put into writing such an well-written story.
Many thanks to Berkley Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Who was Virginia Hall and how did she become a fearless spy at a time hiding would have been a better option? Actually, she was an American, safe from Hitler and his annihilation of millions. A bit more about Virginia. In a hunting accident, she shot off her foot. So, how did an American woman, at a time when prosthetic devices were still rather crude, end up working vigorously with the French Resistance?
Virginia was a brilliant woman who went to two colleges and became quite adept at language. Eventually she went to study in Paris and chose to become a diplomat. It was rare for a woman to become a diplomat at that time and her application for the job was rejected time and again. Then World War II broke out and the Nazis invaded France. Although Virginia was forced to flee France, and ended up in Britain, she met a spy and her life forever changed. Posing as a reporter, Virginia took on many different appearances and worked with a network that fought against the Nazi regime. This job was incredibly dangerous and many agents lost their lives.
The Nazis were onto her and tried to capture her. The danger she faced never once let up. Safe houses along the way, along with many loyal people, kept her alive. Virginia kept working towards the goal of D Day. She knew if that day were ever to happen, then Hitler and his cronies could finally be put to a stop.
What an incredible story! Not only did I inhale this book by Erika Robuck, but I read whatever I could find about this amazing woman. There are other books being produced and even a feature film is being planned. I will be there for all of it. This is the kind of history that keeps me coming back to historical fiction.
What makes this work of fiction work for me is the fact that the author did exhaustive research in order to pen this story. Quite naturally literary license had to be taken, but the book was written with intelligence and integrity. I feel the readers are getting a very good story with this book and it most certainly comes highly recommended from me. Reading the Afterword in this book gave me great appreciation for all of the effort that was put into writing such an well-written story.
Many thanks to Berkley Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 14, 2021
Riveting. Heartbreaking. Unforgettable. I read a ton of WWII fiction & know details of Virginia Hall's life. So I was surprised at how much this book touched me. Author Erika Robuck has a light touch with some heavy topics, and I turned my Kindle pages quickly. (It's a nail-biter in parts as well.) Yet I was completely drawn in to care deeply about the characters. Virginia is an incredible heroine, and I loved her involvement with the boys of the resistance & the village of Chambon. The best part--she was real & this is based on true events. What an uplifting story! Top Pick!
February 1, 2021
A powerful and moving tale of strength against the odds, loyalty and dedication, Erika Robuck’s THE INVISIBLE WOMAN is a tale of courage, honor and daring. Based on a real life heroine during WWII as she becomes an Allied spy dedicating her life to fight the Nazis and avenge the deaths that haunt her from her first mission.
It takes a rare breed of person to do what Virginia Hall did and as such, she was one of many unsung heroes who made a difference in one of humanity’s darkest times. Brilliantly told, this story comes to life and readers are cast back into history, living life in the shadows, trusting instinct and strangers.
A gripping read that is both emotional and gritty, not a glamorized version of life during war.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Berkley Books! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher : Berkley (February 9, 2021)
Publication date : February 9, 2021
Genre: Historical Fiction
Print length : 365 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
It takes a rare breed of person to do what Virginia Hall did and as such, she was one of many unsung heroes who made a difference in one of humanity’s darkest times. Brilliantly told, this story comes to life and readers are cast back into history, living life in the shadows, trusting instinct and strangers.
A gripping read that is both emotional and gritty, not a glamorized version of life during war.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Berkley Books! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher : Berkley (February 9, 2021)
Publication date : February 9, 2021
Genre: Historical Fiction
Print length : 365 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 21, 2021
Virginia Hall was an American who courageously served as one of the top spies during World War II. She bravely worked with the United Kingdom's clandestine Special Operations Executive (SOE) and the American Office of Strategic Services (OSS) in France. It is gratifying that she is now getting the recognition she deserves. In Erika Robuck’s impressive historical fiction book The Invisible Woman, the story of Virginia Hall’s efforts towards the end of the war is told.
In early 1944, Hall travels to France to arm and train the resistance groups known as Marquis to support the Allied invasion of Normandy. She is disguised as an older woman as she is being hunted by the Nazis with her face plastered on wanted posters. Having lost part of her leg in a pre-war accident causing Hall to limp in her wooden prosthetic leg, this disguise helps her avoid being detected. Her handler in England is Vera Atkins, another remarkable woman.
Stories of this type not only shine a light on those people in official positions but of the incredible everyday people who risked their lives to save others. No better example is the people of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a village of pacifist Christians who hid thousands of Jewish children. As a work of fiction, some of the characters are composite of actual people and some names have been changed. Robuck does an excellent job in the Afterword clarifying all. If you are a fan of the genre, this book will enhance your knowledge of the period. And will send you off to do more research on Virginia Hill after you are done.
In early 1944, Hall travels to France to arm and train the resistance groups known as Marquis to support the Allied invasion of Normandy. She is disguised as an older woman as she is being hunted by the Nazis with her face plastered on wanted posters. Having lost part of her leg in a pre-war accident causing Hall to limp in her wooden prosthetic leg, this disguise helps her avoid being detected. Her handler in England is Vera Atkins, another remarkable woman.
Stories of this type not only shine a light on those people in official positions but of the incredible everyday people who risked their lives to save others. No better example is the people of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a village of pacifist Christians who hid thousands of Jewish children. As a work of fiction, some of the characters are composite of actual people and some names have been changed. Robuck does an excellent job in the Afterword clarifying all. If you are a fan of the genre, this book will enhance your knowledge of the period. And will send you off to do more research on Virginia Hill after you are done.
March 1, 2021
This book is based on the true story of Virigina Hall, a woman recruited as an allied spy in World War II. I love reading stories about history that are about (or based on) the lives of real people. Before I read this book, I had never heard of Virginia Hall. So glad I read this book! Hall was a remarkable woman who was strong in the face of overwhelming violence and terror.
I've read several books about female spies during the war and the French resistance, but this one definitely ranks at the top. I can't even imagine how much courage it took to do what she did. What a great story! Every time I read a story about the bravery of people in war time, I always wonder if I could be that brave myself. None of us really know how we will act when faced with danger until we are actually in that moment. Any little mistake....trusting the wrong person....saying the wrong words...could be disastrous. Can you imagine living years under that sort of fear every day? I think that's why I'm drawn to stories like this -- people thrown into very dangerous situations who learn to do wonderful, scary things to protect others. Wonderful book!
This is the first book by Erika Robuck that I've read. I'm definitely going to be reading more -- especially Hemingway's Girl and The House of Hawthorne!
Great book about a great lady! Very enjoyable!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Berkley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I've read several books about female spies during the war and the French resistance, but this one definitely ranks at the top. I can't even imagine how much courage it took to do what she did. What a great story! Every time I read a story about the bravery of people in war time, I always wonder if I could be that brave myself. None of us really know how we will act when faced with danger until we are actually in that moment. Any little mistake....trusting the wrong person....saying the wrong words...could be disastrous. Can you imagine living years under that sort of fear every day? I think that's why I'm drawn to stories like this -- people thrown into very dangerous situations who learn to do wonderful, scary things to protect others. Wonderful book!
This is the first book by Erika Robuck that I've read. I'm definitely going to be reading more -- especially Hemingway's Girl and The House of Hawthorne!
Great book about a great lady! Very enjoyable!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Berkley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
February 19, 2021
Through the authors intense and thorough research we are able to attain a bit of an understanding of the life of a woman who basically hid in plain sight.
Based on true historical facts in the life of Baltimore native Virginia Hall she is an amazing woman.
From her spy uniform of dyed gray hair and baggy clothing to being an infirm elderly woman this American woman in France, an Allied spy, worked with the Resistance to take back France from the Nazis.
Spies behind Nazi lines were not expected to last even six weeks doing a dangerous mission but this was a risk she was willing to take.
Very well developed characters and the pacing of the story drew me in making me need to continue reading the story right to the end . The story was full of high tension as you are holding your breath thinking she'll make it through but not completely sure until the end.
The author is just incredible in her retelling of this time in history . I can so admire Virginia with all the struggles she went through she is a very strong female character.
I will be doing my own research now to learn more about this unforgettable woman.
Pub Date: 09 Feb 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Based on true historical facts in the life of Baltimore native Virginia Hall she is an amazing woman.
From her spy uniform of dyed gray hair and baggy clothing to being an infirm elderly woman this American woman in France, an Allied spy, worked with the Resistance to take back France from the Nazis.
Spies behind Nazi lines were not expected to last even six weeks doing a dangerous mission but this was a risk she was willing to take.
Very well developed characters and the pacing of the story drew me in making me need to continue reading the story right to the end . The story was full of high tension as you are holding your breath thinking she'll make it through but not completely sure until the end.
The author is just incredible in her retelling of this time in history . I can so admire Virginia with all the struggles she went through she is a very strong female character.
I will be doing my own research now to learn more about this unforgettable woman.
Pub Date: 09 Feb 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2021
Let me say that my 3 star rating has nothing to do with the heroine of this historical fiction. Virginia Hall Goillot, The Limping Lady, was brave, courageous and a true hero in the French Resistance during World War II.
Virginia was born into a wealthy American family, and traveled and studied extensively in Europe. After completing her education, she took a position with the U.S. Embassy in Poland, and then a position in Turkey. While in Turkey, a hunting accident resulted in the loss of her left leg below the knee. She received a prosthetic leg, which she called Cuthbert. Virginia joined the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and was stationed in France. She ran a spy ring, and when they were compromised she needed to escape as the Gestapo were hunting her. She crossed the Pyrenees from France to Spain, on foot with Cuthbert. That’s over 11,000 ft. in the snow and wind. It is harrowing to even imagine. Once she reached Spain, she was arrested and sent to prison. Upon her release from prison, she returned to France, gathering intelligence, managing Maquis resistance and organizing supply drops.
Virginia was one incredible woman! So why didn’t I like the book more? It took off with a bang, but didn’t keep that momentum. While Virginia and her story held my attention, the telling of her story never drew me in to Virginia’s character at all. Yes, she was portrayed as brave, courageous, strong and daring, but she was portrayed flatly and her emotions never quite jumped off the page. Also, the story was told in present with flashbacks to the past, however, the transitions were unconnected. It just seemed like bits and pieces thrown together without any logical thread tying everything together. I kept reading because I wanted to know Virginia’s story.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
Virginia was born into a wealthy American family, and traveled and studied extensively in Europe. After completing her education, she took a position with the U.S. Embassy in Poland, and then a position in Turkey. While in Turkey, a hunting accident resulted in the loss of her left leg below the knee. She received a prosthetic leg, which she called Cuthbert. Virginia joined the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and was stationed in France. She ran a spy ring, and when they were compromised she needed to escape as the Gestapo were hunting her. She crossed the Pyrenees from France to Spain, on foot with Cuthbert. That’s over 11,000 ft. in the snow and wind. It is harrowing to even imagine. Once she reached Spain, she was arrested and sent to prison. Upon her release from prison, she returned to France, gathering intelligence, managing Maquis resistance and organizing supply drops.
Virginia was one incredible woman! So why didn’t I like the book more? It took off with a bang, but didn’t keep that momentum. While Virginia and her story held my attention, the telling of her story never drew me in to Virginia’s character at all. Yes, she was portrayed as brave, courageous, strong and daring, but she was portrayed flatly and her emotions never quite jumped off the page. Also, the story was told in present with flashbacks to the past, however, the transitions were unconnected. It just seemed like bits and pieces thrown together without any logical thread tying everything together. I kept reading because I wanted to know Virginia’s story.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
January 27, 2021
Robuck brings real-life American heroine Virginia Hall to life, highlighting her immense bravery as an Allied spy in German-occupied France during World War 2. She vividly depicts Hall’s extraordinary heroism amid the horror of the Nazi atrocities while also shining a light on the thousands of regular people who bravely joined the Resistance (and put their lives on the line) to ensure that their country would not fall to the Nazis. I read this one in less than 24 hours and absolutely loved it. It will be one of my favorite reads of the year.
February 5, 2021
"Was that killing justice, or did it add to the scale heavy with humanity's sins in this war? Will there ever be enough good deeds to balance the sin?"
This book wasted no time getting started. Instead of explaining what life was like before the war, this book started during the war. That helped quite a bit with pacing. Virginia was an amazing woman. She was selfless, strong, and determined. She may have come off as cold-hearted, but her job was not to be liked. What her and her friends did was not light. It weighed heavily on them and the author did a great job portraying that.
I love the way the characters were fleshed out in this story. I felt like I knew all of them and my stress was high with each risk. Erika Robuck did so much research to write this beautiful book. It paid off because this book was a stunning story.
This book wasted no time getting started. Instead of explaining what life was like before the war, this book started during the war. That helped quite a bit with pacing. Virginia was an amazing woman. She was selfless, strong, and determined. She may have come off as cold-hearted, but her job was not to be liked. What her and her friends did was not light. It weighed heavily on them and the author did a great job portraying that.
I love the way the characters were fleshed out in this story. I felt like I knew all of them and my stress was high with each risk. Erika Robuck did so much research to write this beautiful book. It paid off because this book was a stunning story.
February 1, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel. I have read many WWII stories, but this one covered a part of the war I didn't know much about.
I couldn't help but admire the main character, Virginia Hall, who was a Baltimore socialite turned Allied spy. Her story is riveting and the tension builds when she continues to put herself in danger preparing the French resistance for D-Day.
Virginia was betrayed on a previous mission and this haunts her in the form of numerous flashbacks. The flashbacks were a little distracting for me.
Overall, this was a fascinating story about a courageous spy during WWII. I recommend this book to historical fiction fans who enjoy strong female characters. 4.5/5
I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I couldn't help but admire the main character, Virginia Hall, who was a Baltimore socialite turned Allied spy. Her story is riveting and the tension builds when she continues to put herself in danger preparing the French resistance for D-Day.
Virginia was betrayed on a previous mission and this haunts her in the form of numerous flashbacks. The flashbacks were a little distracting for me.
Overall, this was a fascinating story about a courageous spy during WWII. I recommend this book to historical fiction fans who enjoy strong female characters. 4.5/5
I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 17, 2021
A gripping, tense book that shows the courage and steel of real-life spy Virginia Hall. I couldn't put this book down!
May 29, 2021
*** Many thanks to Stephanie @Berkley for providing review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
The Invisible Woman was brilliant biographical historical fiction that was based on a real and very famous American woman who played heroical role in history. It was about war, how people and agents worked for liberation, getting back what was taken by enemy, courage, resilience, survivor guilt, PTSD, redemption, getting over guilt, justice, keeping faith, and finding hope and light even after facing and seeing endless darkness.
Writing was emotive, engaging, vivid and steady paced. It was third person narrative from Virginia’s perspective, set during the WWII that started with Virginia’s third mission as American spy in France that covered most important journey of Virginia Hall’s life.
All the descriptions of characters, Nazi infested France, horrors of war, human capacity for evil, and how people worked in big or even smallest way for resistance and kept the faith and hope was truly great throughout the book. Best thing about the book was, it wasn’t just about liberation of France but, in a way, it was Virginia’s own liberation- freedom of getting her identity back, romancing France without fear, redemption from guilt, and learning to live life once again. But throughout the book what didn’t change in Virginia was her love for France which was another best thing.
Overall, The Invisible Woman was inspiring, emotional, raw, gritty, well researched and well written biographical historical fiction about extraordinary American spy of the history.
Read full review by following this link- https://booksteacupreviews.com/2021/0...
The Invisible Woman was brilliant biographical historical fiction that was based on a real and very famous American woman who played heroical role in history. It was about war, how people and agents worked for liberation, getting back what was taken by enemy, courage, resilience, survivor guilt, PTSD, redemption, getting over guilt, justice, keeping faith, and finding hope and light even after facing and seeing endless darkness.
Writing was emotive, engaging, vivid and steady paced. It was third person narrative from Virginia’s perspective, set during the WWII that started with Virginia’s third mission as American spy in France that covered most important journey of Virginia Hall’s life.
All the descriptions of characters, Nazi infested France, horrors of war, human capacity for evil, and how people worked in big or even smallest way for resistance and kept the faith and hope was truly great throughout the book. Best thing about the book was, it wasn’t just about liberation of France but, in a way, it was Virginia’s own liberation- freedom of getting her identity back, romancing France without fear, redemption from guilt, and learning to live life once again. But throughout the book what didn’t change in Virginia was her love for France which was another best thing.
Overall, The Invisible Woman was inspiring, emotional, raw, gritty, well researched and well written biographical historical fiction about extraordinary American spy of the history.
Read full review by following this link- https://booksteacupreviews.com/2021/0...
March 8, 2021
Historical Fiction
Virginia Hall was a celebrated spy during WWII. She worked tirelessly in France to set up safe houses, transport Jewish children to safety, coordinate drops and operate a radio to communicate. This book focuses on her 2nd trip to France. Her cover was blown earlier in the war and her cell in Lyon broken with many of her team being captured.
Robuck's book reads like non-fiction, it becomes historical fiction because the author ascribes thoughts and feelings and makes some edits regarding people/places for story considerations. Hall was a hard person to research as she was notoriously quiet regarding her war efforts. Not known for her emotions, Robuck had the challenge of making Hall more likable. Regardless, of whether you liked Virginia or not, her accomplishments were extraordinary. When you consider that she did everything with a wooden leg, her success is even more impressive.
I read A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II last year, which is also a book about Virginia Hall and feel that these books go hand in hand with each other. If you want a more comprehensive view of Virginia, her war efforts and her work at the CIA after the war, read A Woman of No Importance. The Invisible Woman focuses more on the 2nd trip to France and gives information about Virginia's past and her cell in Lyon through flashbacks and memories.
These stories about women during WWII are so important and I'm glad that I read this one.
Virginia Hall was a celebrated spy during WWII. She worked tirelessly in France to set up safe houses, transport Jewish children to safety, coordinate drops and operate a radio to communicate. This book focuses on her 2nd trip to France. Her cover was blown earlier in the war and her cell in Lyon broken with many of her team being captured.
Robuck's book reads like non-fiction, it becomes historical fiction because the author ascribes thoughts and feelings and makes some edits regarding people/places for story considerations. Hall was a hard person to research as she was notoriously quiet regarding her war efforts. Not known for her emotions, Robuck had the challenge of making Hall more likable. Regardless, of whether you liked Virginia or not, her accomplishments were extraordinary. When you consider that she did everything with a wooden leg, her success is even more impressive.
I read A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II last year, which is also a book about Virginia Hall and feel that these books go hand in hand with each other. If you want a more comprehensive view of Virginia, her war efforts and her work at the CIA after the war, read A Woman of No Importance. The Invisible Woman focuses more on the 2nd trip to France and gives information about Virginia's past and her cell in Lyon through flashbacks and memories.
These stories about women during WWII are so important and I'm glad that I read this one.
October 8, 2021
A fascinating tale based on the life of a real woman who was an Allied spy during World War II. You'll follow Virginia Hall through several legs of her journey. You'll feel her to-the-bone weariness. You'll witness her internal struggle as to whether to help with the here and now or to play the long game. And you'll see her as a real person who did amazing things. And you'll see her grow as a person and as a woman - one who has a real, beating heart.
If you follow my reviews, you've probably heard me say it before... there is just a glut of WWII books out there right now. But this one's worth the read. It's a bit gritty and can be a bit confusing at times to tell if we're reading the current timeline or an internal dialogue memory. But, the author has a great way of foreshadowing and then letting the other shoe drop, so to speak.
I really liked the book. The only thing that could make it better, I think, except for the aforementioned, would be if it could have included some photos or other ephemera in the back of the book. But I understand our heroine was quite an elusive character to research, which only makes sense for a spy.
Recommended for true-story historical fiction and book club lovers.
If you follow my reviews, you've probably heard me say it before... there is just a glut of WWII books out there right now. But this one's worth the read. It's a bit gritty and can be a bit confusing at times to tell if we're reading the current timeline or an internal dialogue memory. But, the author has a great way of foreshadowing and then letting the other shoe drop, so to speak.
I really liked the book. The only thing that could make it better, I think, except for the aforementioned, would be if it could have included some photos or other ephemera in the back of the book. But I understand our heroine was quite an elusive character to research, which only makes sense for a spy.
Recommended for true-story historical fiction and book club lovers.
February 18, 2022
Another very well done WWII novel featuring an IRL woman, Virginia Hall, from Baltimore, MD, who was recruited by the English to be a spy in France. And Virginia wore a prosthetic leg. It's amazing how many women in history existed and I am grateful to the authors who bring them to life, such as Erika Robuck. The author was honest to say that she embellished the story as one might have to do without precise journals and actual interviews. It kept my interest throughout because of a dynamic narrator, Caroline Hewitt, and Robuck's writing style. At the end of the audiobook, Caroline Hewitt adds more historical information, which was very interesting.
Publisher's blurb:
France, March 1944. Virginia Hall wasn't like the other young society women back home in Baltimore--she never wanted the debutante ball or silk gloves. Once she's recruited as an Allied spy, subverting the Nazis becomes her calling. Virginia is haunted every day by the betrayal that ravaged her first operation, and will do everything in her power to avenge the brave people she lost.
Publisher's blurb:
France, March 1944. Virginia Hall wasn't like the other young society women back home in Baltimore--she never wanted the debutante ball or silk gloves. Once she's recruited as an Allied spy, subverting the Nazis becomes her calling. Virginia is haunted every day by the betrayal that ravaged her first operation, and will do everything in her power to avenge the brave people she lost.
February 19, 2021
Maybe 3 + because I just read a WWII one that was AWFUL
June 8, 2020
On the heals of A Woman of No Importance - if you enjoyed the bio it for exposing Virginia Hall's incredible and harrowing true story, then you'll love this too!
Robuck has a keen way of framing incredible heroins throughout history, offered in a poignant and powerful way. She creates gritty realities and fully vetted characters that resonate with you long after you finish reading about them.
Here we get to meet Virginia before she became a legend, when she was a relatable yearning young woman. We grow with her as she takes small steps toward her greater destiny.
This page-turning adventure story gives light to a person and delightfully untapped themes; it's refreshing narrative for any historical reader.
Galley borrowed from the publisher.
Robuck has a keen way of framing incredible heroins throughout history, offered in a poignant and powerful way. She creates gritty realities and fully vetted characters that resonate with you long after you finish reading about them.
Here we get to meet Virginia before she became a legend, when she was a relatable yearning young woman. We grow with her as she takes small steps toward her greater destiny.
This page-turning adventure story gives light to a person and delightfully untapped themes; it's refreshing narrative for any historical reader.
Galley borrowed from the publisher.
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