⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
If you enjoy wartime fiction with strong female leads, add The Call of the Wrens to your reading list. Jenni L. Walsh takes us on a ride—literally—through two world wars with dual heroines who sign up for the Women’s Royal Naval Service, better known as the Wrens.
Marion is an orphan in WWI who finds purpose as a motorcycle dispatch rider. Evelyn is a wealthy young woman in WWII, born with a clubfoot and aching to break free from expectations. Their stories are told in alternating timelines, and I found both characters really likeable and well-drawn. I was especially moved by how their paths ultimately connect in a meaningful way.
Even though I read a lot of historical fiction set during the wars, I always learn something new. I had no idea that armies used carrier pigeons to report troop movements—who knew those little birds were war heroes?
The book blends action, emotional depth, and historical detail in just the right mix. Some plot points wrap up a bit too neatly, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. This is a great pick for readers who like courage, sisterhood, and a side of history. Kudos to Fiona Hardingham and Amanda Sanfilippo for doing a fabulous job narrating.
** Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse for a comp of the audiobook. The opinions are my own.