Compelling New WWII Novels You Can’t Miss

Step into the past and immerse yourself in the world of the new WWII novels as 2023 promises to deliver an exceptional range of World War II novels. With the ever-evolving storyline of love and loss, espionage, and triumphs, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest. From the European battlefields to the wartime struggles on the streets of London, these novels will transport you back to one of the most tumultuous periods in history.

You can look forward to enjoying captivating debuts from new authors as well as the latest novels from beloved authors that you have grown to love over the years. Some of the most highly anticipated releases include tales of strong and brave women who worked tirelessly during the war. You will be transported into the secret codebreaking center at Bletchley Park alongside three courageous women, and discover the true story of the American Library in Paris and the librarians who risked their lives to protect books and inspire hope.

If you love a good espionage thriller, you’ll be captivated by the story of the King’s Spy, where the drama and excitement will have you on the edge of your seat. With so many incredible World War II novels to choose from, make sure to add these books to your must-read list in 2023. Get ready to lose yourself in the pages of these new WWII novels and experience the power of storytelling.

Compelling New WWII Novels You Can't Miss

The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel

Enter the tumultuous world of 1939 Paris in Kristin Harmel’s heartrending novel, The Paris Daughter. As war rages on and the threat of Nazi persecution looms, two mothers face the ultimate sacrifice of giving up their beloved daughters to keep them safe.

Elise, targeted by the Nazis, is forced to make the difficult decision to entrust her young daughter to Juliette, a decision that will haunt them both for decades to come. The bombing of their neighborhood leaves both families devastated and facing a lifetime of heartbreak and uncertainty.

Kristin Harmel, the acclaimed author of The Book of Lost Names, delivers a harrowing and emotional story that will leave readers breathless. The Paris Daughter explores the bonds of motherhood, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Night Angels by Weina Dai Randel

Step into the world of Night Angels, a poignant and moving tale set in 1938 Vienna. Follow the story of Dr. Ho Fengshan, the consul general of China, and his American wife, Grace, as they navigate the complexities of living in a city on the brink of chaos. As tensions rise and brutal attacks on Jews become more frequent, Grace’s friendship with Jewish tutor Lola Schnitzler initially raises concerns for Dr. Ho.

However, when the attacks escalate, Dr. Ho is moved to act, attempting to issue exit visas to Lola Schnitzler and thousands of other Austrian Jews to escape to Shanghai. Night Angels is a powerful story of resistance and everyday heroism in the face of oppression and fear. It is a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, and one that is sure to resonate with fans of Pam Jenoff and Martha Hall Kelly. Join Dr. Ho and Grace on their journey as they fight for what is right and struggle to find hope in a world that seems determined to take it away.

My Father’s House by Joseph O’Connor

Embark on a journey of courage, sacrifice, and hope in Joseph O’Connor’s My Father’s House, a stirring novel based on the extraordinary true story of an Irish priest in Italy who risked everything to save Jewish and Allied prisoners from persecution during World War II.

Set against the backdrop of 1943 Rome, occupied by the German army under the leadership of Gestapo henchman Paul Hauptmann, My Father’s House tells the tale of a courageous priest who works tirelessly to provide aid to those in need. With violence and famine raging all around, many seek refuge in the autonomous Vatican City, where the priest must navigate the treacherous waters of Nazi suspicion and surveillance to offer a glimmer of hope and a safe haven for those in need.

Joseph O’Connor weaves a compelling tale of heroism, faith, and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. My Father’s House is a testament to the power of human kindness and the unbreakable human spirit, offering a message of hope and inspiration that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Don’t miss this captivating and unforgettable story that will leave you breathless and moved.

Compelling New WWII Novels You Can't Miss

The Librarian of Burned Books by Brianna Labuskes

Step into the world of The Librarian of Burned Books, a captivating historical tale that will transport you to 1930s Berlin, 1936 Paris, and 1944 New York City. Follow the journeys of three remarkable women as they navigate their way through a world torn apart by war and political unrest.

As they each follow their own paths, their lives will intertwine in unexpected ways, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come. The German Library of Banned Books and the Council of Books in Wartime provide the backdrop for this captivating novel that seamlessly blends history, intrigue, and romance.

Brianna Labuskes weaves a spellbinding story of the power of literature to inspire, uplift, and transform, even in the darkest of times. Whether you’re a fan of The Rose Code or The Paris Library or simply looking for a compelling historical tale, The Librarian of Burned Books is one of the best new WWII novels that will keep you hooked until the very last page. Join these remarkable women on their journey and discover the transformative power of literature in the face of adversity.

Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff

Enter the world of Code Name Sapphire, a heart-wrenching and gripping tale set during the height of World War II. Follow Hannah Martel, a young woman who flees Nazi Germany in 1942 after the devastating loss of her fiancé in a pogrom. Her only refuge is a ship headed to the United States, but when the ship is turned away, Hannah must return to Europe to find shelter with her cousin in Brussels.

Hannah soon finds herself joining the resistance as part of the Sapphire Line network, working tirelessly to fight against the Nazi regime. However, her actions have unintended consequences, leading to the arrest and deportation of her family to Auschwitz. In a desperate bid to save those she cares about, Hannah must navigate the dangerous world of espionage and sabotage, risking everything in the process.

Code Name Sapphire is a powerful and unforgettable story of bravery, love, and sacrifice in the face of unimaginable horror. Pam Jenoff, the New York Times bestselling author of The Orphan’s Tale, weaves a gripping tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Join Hannah Martel on her journey as she fights for what is right and struggles to save the ones she loves before it’s too late.

Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash

Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash is a heartwarming and emotional tale of one young girl’s journey from wartime London to the US and back again. The story follows 11-year-old Beatrix as she is evacuated from London during the Blitz and sent to live with a family in America. As she adjusts to life in a new country, she forms close bonds with the Gregory family who show her love and kindness, but she still yearns for her home and family in England.

When the war ends, Beatrix is forced to return to London where she struggles to readjust to life in a city still recovering from the devastation of war. She is torn between her love for the Gregory family and her longing to be reunited with her own family. As she navigates these conflicting emotions, she must also grapple with questions of identity and belonging, wondering where she truly belongs in a world that has been forever changed by war.

Spence-Ash’s debut novel has been praised for its captivating storytelling and vivid portrayal of the experiences of children during wartime. Beyond That, the Sea is a poignant and powerful novel that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

The Swiss Nurse by Mario Escobar

Mario Escobar’s gripping novel, The Swiss Nurse, takes readers on a journey through war-torn Europe during the tumultuous years of the Spanish Civil War and World War II. Elisabeth Eidenbenz, a young nurse from Switzerland, is moved by the plight of mothers and children left destitute by the Spanish Civil War. With her heart set on helping those in need, Elisabeth travels to Spain, where she meets Isabel Dueñas, a brave patriot and refugee who has left her soldier husband behind.

As war erupts across Europe, Elisabeth and Isabel answer the call to serve, determined to make a difference for countless other women displaced by the conflict. The women work tirelessly to provide medical care, shelter, and support to those in need, risking their own safety in the process.

The Swiss Nurse is a poignant and powerful story of love, sacrifice, and bravery in the face of war. Mario Escobar’s masterful storytelling transports readers to another time and place, vividly depicting the struggles and triumphs of two remarkable women. This compelling novel will leave readers moved and inspired by the strength of the human spirit.

The Great Reclamation by Rachel Heng

Rachel Heng’s The Great Reclamation is an epic novel that immerses readers in the tumultuous history of 20th-century Singapore. As the British empire begins to crumble, Ah Boon, a young man from a small fishing town, sets his sights on his neighbor Siok Mei. But while Ah Boon is uninterested in the traditional paths available to him, he discovers that he possesses a unique ability that could make a difference in his community.

As Ah Boon and Siok Mei come of age together, they face the challenges of Japanese invasion and Singapore’s struggle for independence. Against this backdrop of political upheaval, they navigate the complexities of love, family, and identity, forging their own paths in a rapidly changing world.

The Great Reclamation is a stunning work of historical fiction that illuminates a pivotal period in Singapore’s history. With lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, Rachel Heng transports readers to a time and place that is both familiar and exotic, drawing them into a world of love, courage, and perseverance. This impressive novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Southeast Asia, and a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

The Golden Doves by Martha Hall Kelly

Among the new WWII novels you can also find this gripping historical fiction that follows the story of two brave women who risk their lives for their country and justice. The Golden Doves is a poignant tale of survival, friendship, and determination in the face of unimaginable adversity. As Josie and Arlette navigate the perils of war and the aftermath of their imprisonment, they must rely on their resilience and each other to uncover the truth and seek retribution. The Golden Doves is a must-read for fans of World War II fiction and those who appreciate the power of the human spirit.

If you are interested in finding out more about this book, check our full review.

World War II has been a rich source of inspiration for authors for decades, and these new novels are no exception. Each one provides a unique and compelling perspective on the war and the people caught up in it, from soldiers and spies to ordinary citizens and brave resistance fighters. These stories remind us of the power of human resilience, courage, and compassion in the face of unimaginable hardship and tragedy. If you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a great read, make sure to add these new WWII novels to your reading list.

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