CODE NAME HELENE

Historical fiction is not usually my first pick when browsing the bookstore shelves but this is an exception well worth making. This novel is one of my new favourites. Not only because the story is based on true life journalist and World War II spy Nancy Wake but also because the antipodean spy (born in New Zealand, bred in Australia) is shown as the strong and brave leader that she was and not the somewhat dismissive femme fatale that she has often been characterised. Of course, this is fictionalised story but there is just the right amount of fact woven through to make it a great read for people unfamiliar, or like me, very familiar with the true-life history of this war hero, who was also known as the White Mouse. The detailed descriptions and deep scene setting make this a story to sink your teeth into and at almost 450 pages you will want to settle in and take your time.