The Women: The Bestselling, Unforgettable Novel That Has Captured Millions of Hearts

"The women had a story to tell, even if the world wasn't quite yet ready to hear it, and their story began with three simple words. - We were there"Enlightening, informative and a fitting tribute to the female service women and medical staff who served in Vietnam, but whose voice was never heard because ‘no women were there’. Kristin Hannah is an author who always demonstrates the immense healing power through storytelling, where voices are no longer silent, and in this book ‘The Women’, she has written a fabulous heartbreaking story and an eye opening account of events in Vietnam that conquers without coercion and agitates without exaggerating.The Plot - Many know something of the war in Vietnam, yet many like me knew little of the number of the women in service and the female medical staff who suffered, endured, and lived through that conflict. Frankie brings to life the role and treatment of women, who until later years were barely acknowledged despite the crucial role many played in the war. While the men were branded heroes, the country was dishonourably quiet about the role that their women played. Women who witnessed many of the same horrors, lost their lives, and endured injuries like many men but to American citizens – they weren’t even there.This very human story of Frankie took us on a journey through this distressing period in history, and takes us through the decision to sign up, how her family relationships became strained with the decision, and then the impact on her because of her parent’s lack of support, particularly her fathers. Add to that the loss of the three men in Frankie's life, her brother and her two loves and her re-integration back into society and 'normal' life and we have one of the most memorable historical fiction books I have ever read.Review and Comments - 'The Women' is an exquisite novel that will leave imprints on your heart and in your mind a long time after reading, not just about the brutality of war and loss on both sides, but the treatment and deafening silence about the role the women played. The book has an abundance of great characters, particularly Frankie who was portrayed as a very human person. An incredible woman, strong, determined, and courageous with an enormous capacity for love and forgiveness, but who for years suffered from the effects of war and because she ‘was not there’ never received the care and support needed to prevent PTSD.The storyline is superb, and the writing style is stunning. Historical fiction at its best as Kristin Hannah manages to hold a mirror up to society displaying themes of corruption, dishonour, loss, tragedy, PTSD, family relationships, and isolation as women and society struggled to contend and confront the very harsh reality of the story of ‘The Women’ in Vietnam. An awakening for many, then and now. An authentic account of an unforgotten and untold story. Sometimes brutal, sometimes beautiful. They were there.

This book took me through so many emotions that I cannot put them into words. It brought the war in Vietnam back to life and the horrendous war that should never have happened. This book has left an enormous impact upon the people who are still suffering the aftermath of effects. Very well written and it’s important that we remember what happened. We shall not forget the fallen.

Eminently readable and interesting story of the Vietnam War from the point of view of a young US Army nurse dealing with multiple major casualty events in a challenging climate and with lack of medical personnel and equipment . Interesting perspective on the pros and cons of warfare and the damage done to all parties, with contrast between the political aspect of this conflict and the practical repercussions. A very good example of what we now call PTSD is described with insight and compassion. Sensitive topics dealt with sympathetically. I am only half way through, but look forward to satisfying conclusion.

Kristin Hannah is an exceptional story teller. She hooks you in from the get go. This is the third book of hers I've read. It's a rollercoaster ride. Emotional, shocking, gripping and despite the hideous conditions & experiences the women endured it's an incredible story of courage and real friendship and love.

This book it’s possibly one of the best books I’ve ever read. A different choice for me as I normally go for a thriller that keeps you guessing but honestly 10 pages in and this book grips you. So many emotions around love, friendship, family a brilliant read but be prepared for an emotional roller coaster. Cannot recommend this book enough, if it came out as a film I would watch brilliant and I will buy more books by same author now.

A thriller from start to finish, so much anguish, heart break and hope. Absolute brilliance, loved this book very much, what a story about what actually went on in Vietnam and the unsung hero’s and part our great ladies played

I borrowed this one from my local library after it was recommended by a member of the book club I attend. It’s a terrific book.In 1965, twenty-year-old Frankie horrifies her wealthy parents by enlisting as a nurse for Vietnam, a decision partly based on a desire to join the photos of male family members on her father’s hero board. It’s a baptism of fire for the newly qualified nurse. The author describes in visceral detail the frenzy and blood-soaked chaos of combat nursing. Two experienced nurses take Frankie under their wings but it’s hard to get used to the horror around her and to the shock of losing people she grows to love.When she returns to the USA, she faces a new challenge. Support for the Vietnam War is waning and it’s difficult for traumatised veterans – especially female ones – to find their place.Well-written with plenty of cultural and political period detail. I liked the book so much I bought a copy of my Kindle.

From page 1 this book drew me in and I couldn’t stop reading.It made me cry.I won’t forget this book ever, it was wonderfully written with feeling and love.Thank you for such a great book.

I admit I'm not an emotional reader. It takes a lot me make me shed tears while reading, but the ending of this book was surprisinly emotional for me. I love reading historical novels, but I knew little about the Vietnam War and its outcomes to the soldiers and nurses who ventured in there in service. A really good book that like many other that I've been reading, show the forgotten role of women in wars that marked a whole generation.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️A Riveting Tribute to Courage and SisterhoodThe Women by Kristin Hannah is an extraordinary novel that immerses readers in the untold stories of women who served in the Vietnam War. Through the eyes of Frances “Frankie” McGrath, a young nurse from a privileged background, we witness her transformation as she leaves behind her sheltered life to serve in a war-torn country. The narrative delves deep into her experiences, capturing the chaos and camaraderie of the battlefield, as well as the profound challenges faced upon returning home.Hannah masterfully portrays the complexities of war, not just in combat but in the emotional and psychological toll it takes on those who serve. The bond between Frankie and her fellow nurses, Barb and Ethel, is heartwarming and authentic, showcasing the strength found in sisterhood amidst adversity. The novel also addresses the often-overlooked contributions of women in the military, shedding light on their sacrifices and the struggles they faced both during and after the war.The writing is evocative, drawing readers into the turbulent era with vivid descriptions and compelling characters. Hannah’s meticulous research and attention to detail bring authenticity to the story, making it both informative and deeply moving. The Women is a testament to resilience, friendship, and the enduring spirit of those who serve. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction that honors the unsung heroes of our past.

Me gustó mucho, la historia es dura, escrita de forma que se lee fácilmente, muchas emociones, toca temas difíciles de forma entretenida y que invita a seguir leyendo.

I finished The Women by Kristin Hannah with tears in my eyes. From about halfway through the book until the very end, I found myself constantly emotional. It is one of those stories that slowly pulls you in and then refuses to let go.The novel follows Frankie McGrath, a young woman who volunteers as a nurse during the Vietnam War. Through her story, the reader sees not only the brutality of war but also the emotional scars that follow soldiers long after they return home. What struck me most is how the book shines a light on the often forgotten role of women in the war. Their courage, trauma, and sacrifices are portrayed with honesty and depth.Kristin Hannah’s writing is very immersive. She manages to balance historical detail with deeply personal storytelling, which makes the characters feel real and relatable. The friendships Frankie builds, the challenges she faces, and the struggles she experiences after returning home are described in a way that feels authentic and heartbreaking.Overall, The Women is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel. It is emotional, sometimes painful to read, but ultimately very powerful. I’m really glad I read it, even though it left me crying for a good part of the story.

Powerful, sad, heartbreaking but heartwarming story of unsung heroines. A must read for anyone who lived through that terrible time as well as all people who need a history lesson about the toll the Vietnam war took on all Americans.