I’m not usually a fan of historical fiction, but the cover is so beautiful I thought I’d give it a go. I’m so glad I did, it’s truly remarkable. ‘Verity’ is arrested by the Gestapo in France during the Second World War. She’s a secret agent and about to undergo her worst nightmare, either reveal her mission or be subjected to horrific torture followed by execution. She decides to confess, and by doing so, is given writing materials so she can document her case.
The book opens with the agent’s words ‘I am a coward’, and from here we continue to read how she was captured and what is happening to her at present. We don’t even learn her real name until half way through. ‘Verity’ tells of how she arrived in France, flown by her best friend Maddie, a rare female pilot. She had to abandon the plane in mid flight and doesn’t know if Maddie is still alive. She has reason to believe she’s dead.
‘Verity’ writes of how they met, how they became great friends and later entangled in the war effort. These women are amazing. Whilst I was reading ‘Verity’s’ confession it was hard to believe it was fiction. I didn’t for one minute think she was a coward.
I don’t want to spoil the plot so I won’t elaborate too much, but suddenly, half way through, this book changes speed. It’s difficult to explain but it was a thrill to read. Full of tension and conflicting emotions, I’ll remember this book forever. I’ll remember these two women and their unwavering love for one and other. Wein has written something very powerful here, something important. For me, I think this book is firstly about friendship, and secondly, but just as prominent, about a woman’s role during the war. Code Name Verity is inspiring. I loved it.
