Code name Verity

A very intricate plot, dribbling out information in the form of a journal/confession written by a captured British female pilot during WWII. The writer of the journal has been captured by the Nazis in occupied France and she is supposed to be writing down all she knows about the British war effort–codes, bases, etc. In defiance, she keeps writing about her friendship with another female pilot, how they came to be part of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force, and just enough possibly relevant information that her SS torturers keep her alive rather than sending her off for “experimental uses” at the concentration camp in Ravensbruck.

Lots of plot twists and “a-ha” moments make you want to go back and read the book a second time as soon as you're finished, but the characters are developed enough that the conclusion still feels emotionally wrenching. I initially was hesitant to read this because it is labeled Young Adult. I'm not sure why this label was used because the themes and characters appeal to adults as well. From what I understand, it is being made into a movie.

The author has done a lot of research on these WAAF pilots and because she is a pilot herself, the flight mechanics and dialogue all ring true. A bibliography at the end gives you plenty of books to add to your TBR pile if you want to know more.