The Women

In her book The Women, Kristin Hannah has written another emotional historical fiction novel that immerses readers in a turbulent period in history, one that is not so prevalent in historical fiction writing. This book tells the story of Frankie McGrath, Army nurse during the Vietnam conflict, who faces difficult situations both during her time in Vietnam and in the years after she returns home as a veteran. Frankie's story demonstrates that “women can be heroes too.”

Hannah divides Frankie's story into two parts. In Part 1, Frankie enlists in the Army as a nurse in order to follow her brother to Vietnam and to earn herself a spot on her father's “Heroes Wall.” Most of the plot in this part of the book takes place in Vietnam where Frankie experiences the brutality of war up close. Though the experience takes a toll on Frankie's emotions and beliefs, it also introduces her to two other nurses, Barb and Ethel, who become her best friends and support system.

In Part 2, Frankie is back home in California struggling to integrate back into everyday life. The world has changed, and people do not treat her as she expected. Even her family does not acknowledge or value her service to her country, so Frankie has to figure out who she is beyond being an Army nurse.

The best part of this book is the female friendship between Frankie, Barb, and Ethel. Hannah writes female relationships so well. They become a found family that supports one another no matter the circumstances. Barb, especially, is always there to pick Frankie up when she stumbles, no questions asked. Hannah writes, “Thank God for girlfriends. In this crazy, chaotic, divided world run by men, you could count on women.” So true!

There are many other aspects to praise in this book. The book is well-paced and easy to read with straightforward storytelling. I was thoroughly immersed in the settings and sped through chapters to see what would happen next. The historical context of the Vietnam conflict is highly engaging and interesting. I immediately wanted to research events referenced in the book. Frankie's experiences are vividly depicted and lead to some very emotional reading moments. Hannah's books always make me feel connected to the characters so that their hardships have a strong impact on me.

One thing I wish had been handled differently is the development of Frankie's romantic relationships. The relationships she engaged in while in Vietnam are too quickly developed without enough time taken to create an understanding of why these characters fall in love. I could not buy in to these romances because there wasn't enough foundation for them. Honestly, I feel that the book does not need romance in it at all. The story of Frankie, her family, and the women she befriends is enough in itself.

Would I recommend this book to other readers? Absolutely. It is informative, entertaining, heartbreaking, and inspiring. Another excellent book by a gifted writer!