What do you think?
Rate this book
The Lipstick Bureau
1944, Rome. Newlywed Niki Novotná is recruited by a new American spy agency to establish a secret branch in Italy's capital. One of the OSS's few female operatives abroad and multilingual, she's tasked with crafting fake stories and distributing propaganda to lower the morale of enemy soldiers.
Despite limited resources, Niki and a scrappy team of artists, forgers and others—now nicknamed The Lipstick Bureau—find success, forming a bond amid the cobblestoned streets and storied villas of the newly liberated city. But her work is also a way to escape devastating truths about the family she left behind in Czechoslovakia and a future with her controlling American husband.
As the war drags on and the pressure intensifies, Niki begins to question the rules she's been instructed to follow, and her heart leads her in an unexpected direction. But one step out of line, one mistake, could mean life or death…
Loosely inspired by real-life OSS operative Barbara Lauwers, Michelle Gable's The Lipstick Bureau is about a woman challenging convention and boundaries to help win a war, no matter the cost.
Despite limited resources, Niki and a scrappy team of artists, forgers and others—now nicknamed The Lipstick Bureau—find success, forming a bond amid the cobblestoned streets and storied villas of the newly liberated city. But her work is also a way to escape devastating truths about the family she left behind in Czechoslovakia and a future with her controlling American husband.
As the war drags on and the pressure intensifies, Niki begins to question the rules she's been instructed to follow, and her heart leads her in an unexpected direction. But one step out of line, one mistake, could mean life or death…
Loosely inspired by real-life OSS operative Barbara Lauwers, Michelle Gable's The Lipstick Bureau is about a woman challenging convention and boundaries to help win a war, no matter the cost.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2022
474 people are currently reading
9738 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Gable
13 books1,539 followersMichelle Gable is the New York Times Bestselling author of A PARIS APARTMENT, I'LL SEE YOU IN PARIS, THE BOOK OF SUMMER, and THE SUMMER I MET JACK.
Michelle grew up in San Diego and attended The College of William & Mary, where she majored in accounting, as most aspiring writers do. After a twenty-year career in finance, Michelle now writes full-time. She lives in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, with her husband, two daughters, and what is quickly becoming a menagerie: one cat, one bunny, and a lab/jindo mix recently rescued from the dog meat trade in Thailand.
Michelle can be reached at www.michellegable.com or on Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest at @MGableWriter.
Michelle grew up in San Diego and attended The College of William & Mary, where she majored in accounting, as most aspiring writers do. After a twenty-year career in finance, Michelle now writes full-time. She lives in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, with her husband, two daughters, and what is quickly becoming a menagerie: one cat, one bunny, and a lab/jindo mix recently rescued from the dog meat trade in Thailand.
Michelle can be reached at www.michellegable.com or on Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest at @MGableWriter.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 403 reviews
October 1, 2022
Thanks to Graydon House for sending me this eARC through NetGalley. I found this historical fiction to be a pleasant read. It is loosely based on the experiences of Barbara Lauwers, a Czech native who married an American and emigrated to the US in 1941. She also worked for the OSS Morale Operations department in Rome. Although these parts are in common with the main character in the book, other parts are fictional, such as Niki's husband George.
Niki bends and breaks many rules and is almost court martial-ed. She falls in love with Will, a colleague, even though both are married. Her lies and rule breaking causes her no end of problems. But she overcomes most of them. There are 2 narrators in the book: Niki and her prostitute friend, Paloma. Paloma is part of the rule breaking.
Niki has some endearing habits, such as invoking various Czech saints, even though she is not religious.
Quote:"Maybe all that praying to Zdislava Berka, patron saint of difficult marriages, would pay off."
Czech proverb, quoted by Niki when thinking about her brother in German controlled Slovakia
"As that Czech proverb said, nade "je imira posledni. It was hope that always died last."
Niki to Will, who she has fallen in love with: "Just an old saying I've always liked. Snest bych ti modre z nebe. I would take the blue from the sky for you."
I recommend this book to historical fiction fans.
Niki bends and breaks many rules and is almost court martial-ed. She falls in love with Will, a colleague, even though both are married. Her lies and rule breaking causes her no end of problems. But she overcomes most of them. There are 2 narrators in the book: Niki and her prostitute friend, Paloma. Paloma is part of the rule breaking.
Niki has some endearing habits, such as invoking various Czech saints, even though she is not religious.
Quote:"Maybe all that praying to Zdislava Berka, patron saint of difficult marriages, would pay off."
Czech proverb, quoted by Niki when thinking about her brother in German controlled Slovakia
"As that Czech proverb said, nade "je imira posledni. It was hope that always died last."
Niki to Will, who she has fallen in love with: "Just an old saying I've always liked. Snest bych ti modre z nebe. I would take the blue from the sky for you."
I recommend this book to historical fiction fans.
December 28, 2022
Happy pub day to this enlightening read. Michelle Gable tells the story of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and predecessor to the CIA. Using dual timelines in 1989 and 1944, we find out the role our main character Niki played as a woman serving in Italy. Her assignment was to a unit that produced black propaganda in an effort to weaken the morale of the German troops and bring an end to the war. She came up with the controversial idea of utilizing German POW volunteers to help deliver the propaganda into enemy territory as planes were not available. They gave their varied waves of information a name and I think my favorite was Project Cornflake where they used an ordinance which required mail to be delivered by all citizens who found it and sent their materials right into people's homes to read over their morning cereal. Their work was not for the faint of heart. It was an uphill battle without clear results as a measuring stick. Alternating between the two timelines helped to break up the heaviness of the past narrative while continuing to shed light on the work that was done. There is a third POV -- an Italian prostitute named Paloma. That did not work so well for me as that storyline was quite cryptic at times. Overall, though, this is a fascinating tale and based on a real-life spy named Barbara Lauwers. Michelle Gables includes an extensive bibliography for those who want to find out more about this aspect of WW II.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE LIPSTICK BUREAU by Michelle Gable is a historical fiction story loosely based on a real female spy during WWII working for the fledgling OSS (Office of Strategic Services) later to become the CIA.
I loved the premise and the extensive historical research, but the characters never hooked me emotionally, the writing at times seemed disjointed and the pace was slow. I really wish the characters had been more developed and intrigued me as much as the plot regarding U.S. political propaganda developed and distributed during the war to undermine the Nazi Party and Hitler.
I feel I would have enjoyed this story much more if it had been an actual biography of the fictionalized main characters. The history and information surrounding the OSS and Department of Morale Operations was the reason I continued reading this book to the end.
THE LIPSTICK BUREAU by Michelle Gable is a historical fiction story loosely based on a real female spy during WWII working for the fledgling OSS (Office of Strategic Services) later to become the CIA.
I loved the premise and the extensive historical research, but the characters never hooked me emotionally, the writing at times seemed disjointed and the pace was slow. I really wish the characters had been more developed and intrigued me as much as the plot regarding U.S. political propaganda developed and distributed during the war to undermine the Nazi Party and Hitler.
I feel I would have enjoyed this story much more if it had been an actual biography of the fictionalized main characters. The history and information surrounding the OSS and Department of Morale Operations was the reason I continued reading this book to the end.
December 28, 2022
I really wanted to love THE LIPSTICK BUREAU by Michelle Gable. I’ve read her twice before and both times were most enjoyable. Everything about this book’s synopsis and cover appealed to me, so I don’t know what happened! Well, yes I do. I had a very hard time getting into this story, it just felt very disjointed. I couldn’t really connect with any of the characters and the story. THE LIPSTICK BUREAU is a World War II-era historical fiction loosely based on a true story.
Overall, THE LIPSTICK BUREAU is a book I can say, is just a bit too long. It is the story of Niki Novotna, a fictionalized version of famed WWII spy Barbara Lauwers. I enjoyed the story with all the history but I didn’t love it. Niki’s backstory was interesting, but I didn’t really connect with her in any way. There is usually so much heart in Michelle’s writing that I am very sad that I did not love this one like the previous two I have read. I am still looking forward to reading Ms. Gable’s previous books that I haven’t gotten to yet as well as her future ones.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Graydon House-Harlequin through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
Overall, THE LIPSTICK BUREAU is a book I can say, is just a bit too long. It is the story of Niki Novotna, a fictionalized version of famed WWII spy Barbara Lauwers. I enjoyed the story with all the history but I didn’t love it. Niki’s backstory was interesting, but I didn’t really connect with her in any way. There is usually so much heart in Michelle’s writing that I am very sad that I did not love this one like the previous two I have read. I am still looking forward to reading Ms. Gable’s previous books that I haven’t gotten to yet as well as her future ones.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Graydon House-Harlequin through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
January 6, 2023
1-1/2 rounded up to 2*/5
This book was a big disappointment. I am totally over these multi time line books that ramble on and only confuse the reader. The book dragged on and on with dialogue that had nothing to do with anything.
When the book synopsis says: “Loosely inspired by real-life OSS operative Barbara Lauwers…” it wasn’t kidding. “Loosely” is the operative word here.
After reading about 130 pages I just skipped in order to get to the end.
Then I went to Google and looked up Barbara Lauwers.
This book was a big disappointment. I am totally over these multi time line books that ramble on and only confuse the reader. The book dragged on and on with dialogue that had nothing to do with anything.
When the book synopsis says: “Loosely inspired by real-life OSS operative Barbara Lauwers…” it wasn’t kidding. “Loosely” is the operative word here.
After reading about 130 pages I just skipped in order to get to the end.
Then I went to Google and looked up Barbara Lauwers.
August 30, 2022
A Czech immigrant helping spread propaganda during WW II made this book a very compelling read. My great grandparents immigrated from Czechoslovakia so this story has a strong familial connection with me, even if they we not in Czechoslovakia at this particular time in history. Niki is a very complicated, passionate and intelligent woman doing what she can for the war effort in the OSS, what eventually becomes the CIA in the future. When she get assigned to the moral operations department there she meets and shares a year of her life with a variety of dynamic cast of characters. The story goes between present elderly Niki and past young Niki working in Rome for the OSS. There is also a third viewpoint form a supporting character that changes POV as well intermittently throughout the story. I found this book to be fascinating with facts about WW II along with the romantic and gender discrimination subplots. This is a great historical fiction read, and don’t forget the author’s note at the end!
August 24, 2022
Nikola Novotna finds herself in Rome working for the OSS at the end of WWII. Her work helps set the stage for the end of the war while also shaping the rest of her life.
I had a really hard time getting invested in this but once I did I enjoyed the story. I really liked hearing about the work of propaganda in winning the war and that it was based in fact made it that much more interesting. The chapters were all really short and told from the viewpoint of many different characters making the story feel very fragmented. There was also very little character development so it was difficult to get myself invested in Niki as a main character and no one else really stood out either. At times things felt like they were happening out of order. Other parts went off on tangents that were distracting and didn't really add to the story. There were also some formatting issues I'm hoping get corrected in the final draft as they also took away from the story. I liked the plot and feel like it has potential but there were just too many issues taking me out of the story too make it a great book.
I had a really hard time getting invested in this but once I did I enjoyed the story. I really liked hearing about the work of propaganda in winning the war and that it was based in fact made it that much more interesting. The chapters were all really short and told from the viewpoint of many different characters making the story feel very fragmented. There was also very little character development so it was difficult to get myself invested in Niki as a main character and no one else really stood out either. At times things felt like they were happening out of order. Other parts went off on tangents that were distracting and didn't really add to the story. There were also some formatting issues I'm hoping get corrected in the final draft as they also took away from the story. I liked the plot and feel like it has potential but there were just too many issues taking me out of the story too make it a great book.
October 13, 2024
Maybe I am burned out on WW2. I just did not enjoy at all.
June 25, 2022
A work of historical fiction based on real people and real events, the book describes Niki’s role in the OSS during World War 2. Niki is a Czech native with a flair for languages and is recruited to the OSS (a division that later becomes the CIA) to support Morale Operations, managing propaganda and disinformation to support the war effort.
While I found parts of the book very interesting, exploring a part of history that I knew very little of, I did find that the novel was a little superficial. It lacked depth of character so I was fairly detached from caring about what would happen to the main characters. The pace of the book was fairly slow and I was tempted to give up but at the halfway point, I do think the book picked up pace and became a lot more engaging.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for sharing an eARC with me.
While I found parts of the book very interesting, exploring a part of history that I knew very little of, I did find that the novel was a little superficial. It lacked depth of character so I was fairly detached from caring about what would happen to the main characters. The pace of the book was fairly slow and I was tempted to give up but at the halfway point, I do think the book picked up pace and became a lot more engaging.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for sharing an eARC with me.
December 13, 2022
Niki’s past is a secret to most of her family. In World War II she was in the OSS, in the department of Morale Operations, sent to create propaganda that would undermine the Nazis. But 45 years later, her long-buried secrets might be coming out.
The majority of the book takes place in flashbacks to World War II, interspersed with moments of the present day (set in 1989). It took me a little time to really get into the book, but I quite enjoyed it. There was just one thing that bothered me. That's a very particular personal preference, though. The writing was great, and the characters were interesting and well-formed. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction novels with a hint of romance.
CW: emotional and psychological abuse, gaslighting
The majority of the book takes place in flashbacks to World War II, interspersed with moments of the present day (set in 1989). It took me a little time to really get into the book, but I quite enjoyed it. There was just one thing that bothered me. That's a very particular personal preference, though. The writing was great, and the characters were interesting and well-formed. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction novels with a hint of romance.
CW: emotional and psychological abuse, gaslighting
January 24, 2023
4.1
Cartoonist, comebacks, POWs…
Niki is an operative of MO Rome, the morale operations branch of the OSS. The OSS, with few female operatives, was the predecessor of the CIA. The MO Rome is involved in psychological warfare/propaganda, tasked with lowering morale, inducing confusion, and sowing distrust in enemy soldiers. Many call it the “ Liar’s Club.”
She is a new American citizen, formerly of Czechoslovakia, who speaks 8 languages and has multiple degrees. The tale of Niki and her colleagues , first in Algiers and then in Rome, creating fake stories and distributing propaganda. Based loosely on the true story of Barbara Lauwers (Bozena Hauserova). The MO Rome made a vital contribution to the war effort.
An invite to a honorary banquet in 1989, is like a “summons to confront the past.” Her hidden story will be revealed to her daughter.
* I liked how her story of the past was revealed at the banquet to her daughter.
* Extensive sources.
* Much info online about MO. I found examples of their fake stories and a speech by Colonel William Donovan of the importance of MO. Check out Project Sauerkraut and Operation Cornflakes!!
* Humorous at times!
Cartoonist, comebacks, POWs…
Niki is an operative of MO Rome, the morale operations branch of the OSS. The OSS, with few female operatives, was the predecessor of the CIA. The MO Rome is involved in psychological warfare/propaganda, tasked with lowering morale, inducing confusion, and sowing distrust in enemy soldiers. Many call it the “ Liar’s Club.”
She is a new American citizen, formerly of Czechoslovakia, who speaks 8 languages and has multiple degrees. The tale of Niki and her colleagues , first in Algiers and then in Rome, creating fake stories and distributing propaganda. Based loosely on the true story of Barbara Lauwers (Bozena Hauserova). The MO Rome made a vital contribution to the war effort.
An invite to a honorary banquet in 1989, is like a “summons to confront the past.” Her hidden story will be revealed to her daughter.
* I liked how her story of the past was revealed at the banquet to her daughter.
* Extensive sources.
* Much info online about MO. I found examples of their fake stories and a speech by Colonel William Donovan of the importance of MO. Check out Project Sauerkraut and Operation Cornflakes!!
* Humorous at times!
January 1, 2023
This new book by Michelle Gable gives a perspective of WWII that is different from many of the books about this era. The book is based on a the work done by the OSS Morale Operations department that was based in Rome near the end of the war. Their job was to create so-called black propaganda to create confusion and loss of morale in the German armies. The main character in this book is loosely based on the experiences of Barbara Lauwers, a Czech native who married an American and emigrated to the US in 1941.
Nikola left her home to marry an American in 1941. Her goal was to find out what happened to the family that she left behind and she believed that if she became part of OSS, she would have a good chance to getting to Czechoslovak to find her parents and her brother. She's assigned to the Morale Operations department in Rome to help create negative information to reduce the morale of the German soldiers. The department is filled with a strange cast of characters and no one is really overlooking their plans. Nikola was a person who would sooner do something now and if it comes to light, then to ask forgiveness. When there were no airplanes available to drop the negative information behind enemy lines, she came up with a plan to use German pow's to carry the information to areas where the troops would see them. She was reckless enough not to care that using pow's was not allowed via the Geneva convention. In some cases, her plans caused great danger to the people who were disseminating the information.
I found the background of the story very new and informative to me. The story was told by Nikola in 1989 as she told the story of her life during WWII. I never really connected to Nikola - I thought that she was too invested in breaking the roles so that her ideas could be used. She was treated poorly by the higher ranked officers because she was a woman.
Overall, I enjoyed this book because I learned things that I had never read before about the negative propaganda. I didn't really like the Nikola of the 1940s and she was much more likable in the part of her story in 1989.
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end of the book to find out additional information about the OSS and the real people that the fictional characters were based on.
Nikola left her home to marry an American in 1941. Her goal was to find out what happened to the family that she left behind and she believed that if she became part of OSS, she would have a good chance to getting to Czechoslovak to find her parents and her brother. She's assigned to the Morale Operations department in Rome to help create negative information to reduce the morale of the German soldiers. The department is filled with a strange cast of characters and no one is really overlooking their plans. Nikola was a person who would sooner do something now and if it comes to light, then to ask forgiveness. When there were no airplanes available to drop the negative information behind enemy lines, she came up with a plan to use German pow's to carry the information to areas where the troops would see them. She was reckless enough not to care that using pow's was not allowed via the Geneva convention. In some cases, her plans caused great danger to the people who were disseminating the information.
I found the background of the story very new and informative to me. The story was told by Nikola in 1989 as she told the story of her life during WWII. I never really connected to Nikola - I thought that she was too invested in breaking the roles so that her ideas could be used. She was treated poorly by the higher ranked officers because she was a woman.
Overall, I enjoyed this book because I learned things that I had never read before about the negative propaganda. I didn't really like the Nikola of the 1940s and she was much more likable in the part of her story in 1989.
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end of the book to find out additional information about the OSS and the real people that the fictional characters were based on.
February 12, 2023
Big thank you to Harper Collins for an advanced reader copy of this novel. I highly enjoy historical fiction novels based on true events and this novel sure delivered.
The main character, Niki Novotna, was inspired by Barbara Lauwers who worked for the OSS (The Office of Strategic Services), the precursor of the CIA. This novel was incredibly eye opening to how the Allied forces used counterintelligence and psychological warfare to spread black propaganda in order to put a quicker end to WW II.
The main character, Niki Novotna, was inspired by Barbara Lauwers who worked for the OSS (The Office of Strategic Services), the precursor of the CIA. This novel was incredibly eye opening to how the Allied forces used counterintelligence and psychological warfare to spread black propaganda in order to put a quicker end to WW II.
February 8, 2023
Not my favorite Gable book; I wasn't able to connect with the MC or be as engrossed in the story as much as I have been in her previous novels. It felt disjointed at times. I enjoyed the historical tie-in though and will be on the lookout for her next book!
April 25, 2023
I used to read a lot of fiction set during the World War II era, but in recent years, I have found myself fatigued by the topic, so my consumption has dwindled down to almost nothing. As can often be the case when you take a break from something, you can return to it with fresh vigour, and that’s what has happened here, with this book, The Lipstick Bureau. I found this to be an utterly fascinating read of an aspect of WWII history that I was unfamiliar with.
It follows a contingent of OSS operatives based in Rome in the final months of the war and details their efforts with disseminating ‘black propaganda’ to destabilise an already unstable enemy as the Allies and the Soviets swept closer and closer to victory. It’s a story charged with moral ambiguity and highlights the many ways in which women, both officially and unofficially, contributed to the war effort.
I enjoyed the characters, many of which are loosely based on real people, as per the author note, and the way in which they interacted with each other and the bureaucracy above them. The author writes with such an engaging and suspenseful style, and I was delighted to see that I have her previous release on my review bookshelf, just waiting to be read. I’ll be getting to that sooner rather than later, given how much I enjoyed this one.
Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and war fiction.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
It follows a contingent of OSS operatives based in Rome in the final months of the war and details their efforts with disseminating ‘black propaganda’ to destabilise an already unstable enemy as the Allies and the Soviets swept closer and closer to victory. It’s a story charged with moral ambiguity and highlights the many ways in which women, both officially and unofficially, contributed to the war effort.
I enjoyed the characters, many of which are loosely based on real people, as per the author note, and the way in which they interacted with each other and the bureaucracy above them. The author writes with such an engaging and suspenseful style, and I was delighted to see that I have her previous release on my review bookshelf, just waiting to be read. I’ll be getting to that sooner rather than later, given how much I enjoyed this one.
Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and war fiction.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
November 17, 2024
4.25 🌟
Psychological warfare at it's best/worst. This story tackles an angle of WWII I have not yet read and I was intrigued from the outset of this novel. How the OSS helped win the war by distributing fake news propaganda to the Germans. Great read!
Psychological warfare at it's best/worst. This story tackles an angle of WWII I have not yet read and I was intrigued from the outset of this novel. How the OSS helped win the war by distributing fake news propaganda to the Germans. Great read!
February 22, 2023
A woman with three degrees and fluent in 7 languages is sent into WWII to spread propaganda and aid in the war efforts.
This book was okay. I typically love WWII novels, so this one seemed to check all of my boxes, especially being inspired by a real-life hero. However, it was just very difficult for me to stay engaged with the story. I had difficulty understanding the time jumps at the beginning of the novel and then I had a hard time relating to Niki as a character. I felt like a lot of the story preferred to focus on her forbidden romance rather than the war efforts and found myself speed-reading through scenes to get to what was happening on the war front.
Also, I have a hard time reading books that justify infidelity by making the husband/wife distant or "unloveable". It just leaves a sour taste in my mouth, so I didn't care for that whole side-plot.
Overall, I loved the historical aspects of this book and frankly, I think that's what kept me reading. I had hoped to be more engaged than I was. I almost wish I hadn't known that the book was inspired by a war hero because I think I found myself wanting to know her story rather than the fictional one that was presented here. Overall, it's well written and I enjoyed Niki's spunk and enthusiasm, I just didn't relate to her enough to be moved by her story.
Content guide: Cursing is much higher than I expected, dropping several "f-bombs" and an array of others | Gore was very low, I don't recall hardly any at all | No spice -- just mention of "pleasure" workers and a couple of undetailed kisses.
I received this book from NetGalley for free. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and this review is voluntary.
This book was okay. I typically love WWII novels, so this one seemed to check all of my boxes, especially being inspired by a real-life hero. However, it was just very difficult for me to stay engaged with the story. I had difficulty understanding the time jumps at the beginning of the novel and then I had a hard time relating to Niki as a character. I felt like a lot of the story preferred to focus on her forbidden romance rather than the war efforts and found myself speed-reading through scenes to get to what was happening on the war front.
Also, I have a hard time reading books that justify infidelity by making the husband/wife distant or "unloveable". It just leaves a sour taste in my mouth, so I didn't care for that whole side-plot.
Overall, I loved the historical aspects of this book and frankly, I think that's what kept me reading. I had hoped to be more engaged than I was. I almost wish I hadn't known that the book was inspired by a war hero because I think I found myself wanting to know her story rather than the fictional one that was presented here. Overall, it's well written and I enjoyed Niki's spunk and enthusiasm, I just didn't relate to her enough to be moved by her story.
Content guide: Cursing is much higher than I expected, dropping several "f-bombs" and an array of others | Gore was very low, I don't recall hardly any at all | No spice -- just mention of "pleasure" workers and a couple of undetailed kisses.
I received this book from NetGalley for free. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and this review is voluntary.
August 9, 2022
1944, Rome. Niki Novotná is recruited to be one of the OSS’s few female operatives abroad and she’s tasked with crafting propaganda to lower the morale of enemy soldiers. Despite limited resources, Niki and a team of artists, forgers and others—now nicknamed The Lipstick Bureau—find success. But Niki has to face the truths about the family she left behind in Czechoslovakia and her controlling American husband.
This story was inspired by a real spy, so it piqued my interest. I felt Niki’s desperation to get into Czechoslovakia but not any of the urgency that should have surrounded Operation Sauerkraut and her other MO work. Niki’s backstory was interesting, but i wouldn’t say I liked Niki. She was standoffish, disaffected, impatient, and hard know. It was a slow build and I often find myself leaving and coming back to this book.
For something called the Lipstick Bureau, I expected more women, but Niki was the only woman working in Morale Operations in Rome. I never connected with the characters, and only Ezra seemed fully realized. I didn’t see character development at all and it was the plot more than the people that would pull me back in to finish.
I received an arc from NetGalley
This story was inspired by a real spy, so it piqued my interest. I felt Niki’s desperation to get into Czechoslovakia but not any of the urgency that should have surrounded Operation Sauerkraut and her other MO work. Niki’s backstory was interesting, but i wouldn’t say I liked Niki. She was standoffish, disaffected, impatient, and hard know. It was a slow build and I often find myself leaving and coming back to this book.
For something called the Lipstick Bureau, I expected more women, but Niki was the only woman working in Morale Operations in Rome. I never connected with the characters, and only Ezra seemed fully realized. I didn’t see character development at all and it was the plot more than the people that would pull me back in to finish.
I received an arc from NetGalley
February 24, 2023
The Lipstick Bureau is inspired by the life of a WWII female spy who worked for the US in the OSS or the early iterations of what became the CIA. Born in Czechoslovakia, the character of Nikola Novotna is based on Barbara Lauwer, who marries an American and emigrates to the US in 1941. Speaking seven languages, having graduated with a law degree from a Paris University and with a college degree from Prague, Niki was a woman before her time. She joins the OSS late in 1943 and participates in the MO department based out of Rome Italy for the remainder of the war, spearheading campaigns of “black” propaganda to the Nazis and ultimately winning a Bronze Star for her war efforts.
The novel itself is fictional but many of the campaigns described in the story were actual campaigns used by the military. With catchy names like Operation Cornflake and Operation Saurkraut, the story really has some interesting historical segues into entertaining fact. Gable blends historical fiction, adventure and humor with a beautiful love story and a little bit of mystery. Her characters are realistic and humanistic. Niki is a pistol! We first meet her at a Washington dinner in 1989 where the women of the OSS are being honored for their service. She and her daughter are attending the dinner. As the flashbacks begin to her first day on the job, Niki remembers how she and her partner tried to blow up a golf course accidentally during spy training but the best part is how she tries to sass her way out of it! Nikis chutzpah lands her in the propaganda department and it’s history in the making from there.
Her bravery and sense of humor are really what drew me to this character. I loved reading about a complicated, intelligent, driven woman who wasn’t afraid to take chances and get what she wanted because she thought she could help others. Without those kind of people, we never could have defeated the evils of that war. Her partner in crime, Major Will Dewart, is actually based on the real Major of the MO Rome of the same name . In the novel, he is also Niki’s love interest and the relationship is a beautiful meeting of equals.
It was really intriguing to consider some of the moral issues related to propaganda and it’s effects on both sides during the war. One of the tactics Niki uses is to enlist German POWs to distribute the propaganda over enemy lines and she gets into a lot of hot water over breaking the Nuremberg Code. When you consider the atrocities that were committing by the Nazi/Fascist regimes and how our government viewed the slightest infringement or violation of the codes, the difference is astronomical. The novel allows for spirited thought and discussion about when is lying for the good of others ok? What propaganda is tolerable and what isn’t? Is any kind of dishonesty of this kind acceptable because of a war time situation? Does the use of POWs in potentially dangerous situations justify the means if it helps to end the war faster? There were so many really great secondary conversations I wanted to have about this book!
There are moments of great humor between the crew, moments of real humanity and also moments of true sadness. This one kept me interested and entertained. I was disappointed that it was over. I look forward to the next book from this author.
The novel itself is fictional but many of the campaigns described in the story were actual campaigns used by the military. With catchy names like Operation Cornflake and Operation Saurkraut, the story really has some interesting historical segues into entertaining fact. Gable blends historical fiction, adventure and humor with a beautiful love story and a little bit of mystery. Her characters are realistic and humanistic. Niki is a pistol! We first meet her at a Washington dinner in 1989 where the women of the OSS are being honored for their service. She and her daughter are attending the dinner. As the flashbacks begin to her first day on the job, Niki remembers how she and her partner tried to blow up a golf course accidentally during spy training but the best part is how she tries to sass her way out of it! Nikis chutzpah lands her in the propaganda department and it’s history in the making from there.
Her bravery and sense of humor are really what drew me to this character. I loved reading about a complicated, intelligent, driven woman who wasn’t afraid to take chances and get what she wanted because she thought she could help others. Without those kind of people, we never could have defeated the evils of that war. Her partner in crime, Major Will Dewart, is actually based on the real Major of the MO Rome of the same name . In the novel, he is also Niki’s love interest and the relationship is a beautiful meeting of equals.
It was really intriguing to consider some of the moral issues related to propaganda and it’s effects on both sides during the war. One of the tactics Niki uses is to enlist German POWs to distribute the propaganda over enemy lines and she gets into a lot of hot water over breaking the Nuremberg Code. When you consider the atrocities that were committing by the Nazi/Fascist regimes and how our government viewed the slightest infringement or violation of the codes, the difference is astronomical. The novel allows for spirited thought and discussion about when is lying for the good of others ok? What propaganda is tolerable and what isn’t? Is any kind of dishonesty of this kind acceptable because of a war time situation? Does the use of POWs in potentially dangerous situations justify the means if it helps to end the war faster? There were so many really great secondary conversations I wanted to have about this book!
There are moments of great humor between the crew, moments of real humanity and also moments of true sadness. This one kept me interested and entertained. I was disappointed that it was over. I look forward to the next book from this author.
May 19, 2023
3.5 stars !! honestly super interesting historical fiction loosely based on real people and the creation of morale operations during wwii / the oss (cia) but i think the jumping around from 1944/45 to 1989 and dif character pov for clipped chapters made me feel detached from the story at times, overall good read tho !
June 13, 2022
I received an e-ARC version of this book from NetGalley and the publisher.
“The Lipstick Bureau” is a historical fiction book by Michelle Gable. I had never heard of Barbara Lauwers (who the main character of this book is loosely based upon) before but any book about the OSS and misinformation I find interesting. I cannot say that I really enjoyed this book. I found the main character, Niki, to be difficult to like. Her backstory was interesting, but for some reason I just didn’t warm up to her. I found the chapters about Paloma to be both amusing and a titch heartbreaking. This book would probably be enjoyed by people interested in learning more about the misinformation department during WWII, along with the life of Ms. Lauwers. I did like that the author, Ms. Gable, included a number of resources at the end of her book.
“The Lipstick Bureau” is a historical fiction book by Michelle Gable. I had never heard of Barbara Lauwers (who the main character of this book is loosely based upon) before but any book about the OSS and misinformation I find interesting. I cannot say that I really enjoyed this book. I found the main character, Niki, to be difficult to like. Her backstory was interesting, but for some reason I just didn’t warm up to her. I found the chapters about Paloma to be both amusing and a titch heartbreaking. This book would probably be enjoyed by people interested in learning more about the misinformation department during WWII, along with the life of Ms. Lauwers. I did like that the author, Ms. Gable, included a number of resources at the end of her book.
September 1, 2022
3 stars.*
Michelle Gable is one of my favorite Historical Fiction writers. She does detailed research, creates nuanced characters, and weaves terrific stories.
I expected The Lipstic Bureau to be something like Our Girl in Moscow by Beatriz Williams, but it was nothing like it. It is the story of Niki Novotna, a fictionalized version of famed WWII spy Barbara Lauwers. It tells of how the OSS, specifically the office "led" by Niki, created propaganda that helped bring an end to the war.
It is also a love story, a story of friendship, and a lesson in history.
I enjoyed it, primarily for the history, but didn't love it.
*with thanks to NetGalley for the Digital ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Michelle Gable is one of my favorite Historical Fiction writers. She does detailed research, creates nuanced characters, and weaves terrific stories.
I expected The Lipstic Bureau to be something like Our Girl in Moscow by Beatriz Williams, but it was nothing like it. It is the story of Niki Novotna, a fictionalized version of famed WWII spy Barbara Lauwers. It tells of how the OSS, specifically the office "led" by Niki, created propaganda that helped bring an end to the war.
It is also a love story, a story of friendship, and a lesson in history.
I enjoyed it, primarily for the history, but didn't love it.
*with thanks to NetGalley for the Digital ARC in exchange for this honest review.
September 13, 2022
I’m always a fan of historical fiction, especially in WW II. This one was loosely based on true events, which is why I decided to give it a try. However, I never could get into the story or even root for the main character. It did make me want to look up Barbara Lauwers (who it was based off) and I found her story so intriguing. I just wish it could have been written better.
So not the best book, but based off a great story.
So not the best book, but based off a great story.
March 16, 2023
3 days. This story kept me thoroughly engaged. There is a tiny spice scene. Some swearing. The F word thrown around frequently. Prostitution.
Inspired by a true story. It's a part of the war that I was completely unfamiliar with. I enjoyed the characters and the way the story was written. Reminds me a bit of the Nightingale by Kristin Hannah.
Inspired by a true story. It's a part of the war that I was completely unfamiliar with. I enjoyed the characters and the way the story was written. Reminds me a bit of the Nightingale by Kristin Hannah.
June 30, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I have a weakness for anything to do with women involved in intelligence work and covert missions during WWII, so this is right up my alley because it is about a women called Niki who worked for the Office for Strategic Services (predecessor of the CIA) in Rome in the 1940s.
The missions related to propaganda designed to undermine Nazi troop morale. Interesting but dodgy, given the constant deception and twisting of the truth, not only inherent in the work itself, but often in the main character herself. Due to their use of German POWs, her team ran into opposition and investigation.
Niki was sometimes somewhat dubious for the reasons mentioned above. That aside, she was a fun character to read about. Fluent in many languages, smart, funny, irreverent, and very much act first, apologise later. I liked her a lot. I liked the whole team and Paloma, her Italian friend, too. My favourite thing was the literal translations provided of Niki cussing in Czech and Italian. It made me laugh a lot.
There was a dash of romance, and I was there for it. I liked Will a lot as a character. Good, kind, and invariably led into trouble by Niki time after time.
The book raised a lot of really interesting issues about collaborators and defectors, loyalties, (national) identity, honesty, occupation, and what actions are and are not morally justifiable during war. However, it only touched on these lightly, in my opinion, and often in a humorous way.
The story was set in Rome, one of my favourite cities, so this was a bonus in my eyes.
I listened to the audiobook, and it was really well done.
I was uncertain what to rate the book, to be honest. I'll go with 3.5 stars.
The missions related to propaganda designed to undermine Nazi troop morale. Interesting but dodgy, given the constant deception and twisting of the truth, not only inherent in the work itself, but often in the main character herself. Due to their use of German POWs, her team ran into opposition and investigation.
Niki was sometimes somewhat dubious for the reasons mentioned above. That aside, she was a fun character to read about. Fluent in many languages, smart, funny, irreverent, and very much act first, apologise later. I liked her a lot. I liked the whole team and Paloma, her Italian friend, too. My favourite thing was the literal translations provided of Niki cussing in Czech and Italian. It made me laugh a lot.
There was a dash of romance, and I was there for it. I liked Will a lot as a character. Good, kind, and invariably led into trouble by Niki time after time.
The book raised a lot of really interesting issues about collaborators and defectors, loyalties, (national) identity, honesty, occupation, and what actions are and are not morally justifiable during war. However, it only touched on these lightly, in my opinion, and often in a humorous way.
The story was set in Rome, one of my favourite cities, so this was a bonus in my eyes.
I listened to the audiobook, and it was really well done.
I was uncertain what to rate the book, to be honest. I'll go with 3.5 stars.
January 6, 2024
This WWII-era novel features the OSS and in particular a branch known as Morale Operations - dedicated to distributing misinformation behind enemy lines to lower morale and increase the number of surrendering troops. Nikola is Czech-born, speaks several languages,holds multiple degrees, and eager enough to join the OSS that she does so against her husband's wishes. Stationed in Rome, Nikola is part of a team creating fake newspapers and other materials designed to impact Nazi morale. This novel makes for a compelling read and wasn't precisely what I expected from a novel focused on spies, but I did learn new things about OSS and its operations. Highly recommended for fans of WWII historical fiction.
January 14, 2023
I enjoyed this audiobook and though I’m not a huge fan of historical fiction, my favorite part of the book was learning about the factual aspects of the story. I contemplated a higher rating because I enjoyed that aspect so much, but when I looked at the actual characters and story line, the book fell a little short. Though interesting characters, it was hard to feel connected to them - perhaps because the main character Niki was more of an emotionally distant person or held herself apart? It was enjoyable though and per other reviews I plan to try some other of this author’s books.
May 11, 2024
4.5 stars - one of the most compelling female-spy-in-WWII novels I’ve read, in no small part because it’s based in reality! Amazing how the author kept the romance in the background and created a fully fleshed out character, I wish more authors knew how to do that.
January 9, 2023
I’m a big fan of Michelle Gable’s works of historical fiction, I think she’s a lovely writer and adds such great characterization to her stories and you really capture the heart and soul of those your reading about….on the outside it may be “just another WWII book” but it is a beautiful story about these females bonds and how group of women known as The Lipstick Bureau came together and made a difference in American history working for the OSS (what would later be known as the CIA)
April 13, 2023
2023 Book Quest category: educational (learned some things from WWII history I didn't know before).
So I'm a sucker for WWII historical fiction and this book introduced me to things I didn't know about before with the OSS. A great story with some interesting twists. Some light sex scenes and language I didn't like, but a decent novel nonetheless.
So I'm a sucker for WWII historical fiction and this book introduced me to things I didn't know about before with the OSS. A great story with some interesting twists. Some light sex scenes and language I didn't like, but a decent novel nonetheless.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 403 reviews