The Nightingale: A Novel

A #1 New York Times bestseller, Wall Street Journal Best Book of the Year, and soon to be a major motion picture, this unforgettable novel of love and strength in the face of war has enthralled a generation. With courage, grace, and powerful insight, bestselling author Kristin Hannah captures the epic panorama of World War II and illuminates an intimate part of history seldom seen: the women's war. The Nightingale tells the stories of two sisters, separated by years and experience, by ideals, passion and circumstance, each embarking on her own dangerous path toward survival, love, and freedom in German-occupied, war-torn France―a heartbreakingly beautiful novel that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the durability of women. It is a novel for everyone, a novel for a lifetime.

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608 pages

Average rating: 8.87

4,327 RATINGS

176 REVIEWS

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LaneyLo

Feb 22, 2025

8/10 stars

The Nightingale is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that vividly portrays resilience and tragedy during WWII. The emotional depth had me in tears multiple times, and the writing brought the horrors of war to life. However, the slow start and disorienting POV shifts made it harder to engage early on. Isabelle’s beauty was overly emphasized without adding much to the story. Despite these flaws, it’s a deeply moving read that lingers long after finishing.

KryssyloveCap

Feb 18, 2025

8/10 stars

A wonderfully emotional read. My best read of the year.

Julie MK

Feb 13, 2025

10/10 stars

I re-read the first and last pages again when I’d finished this book. It’s a gritty, harsh story but portrays resilience and love so intimately that it’s humbling. I don’t know how historically accurate this book is but I do know and appreciate how brave people were in those worn-torn times. Sadly, it also shows how cruel humans can be - something I will never comprehend. I would recommend this book as a must read.

Judy Book Doc

Feb 06, 2025

1/10 star

Needed editing badly to get rid of the dreadfully long, unnecessary descriptions. Plot driven so that the endless clichés and bad writing are overlooked by many.

Obfinch096

Feb 03, 2025

10/10 stars

This book was amazing. The scenery and sense used, to the tiny details that get all wrapped up, to the plot, it is all amazing! A very insightful read. I have never felt more grateful for all I have!