The Women: A Novel

Written by:
Kristin Hannah
Narrated by:
Julia Whelan , Kristin Hannah

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
755
Narrator
279
Release Date
February 6, 2024
Duration
14 hours 57 minutes
Summary
'Kristin Hannah’s potent storytelling skills are brilliantly served by narrator Julia Whelan, whose limber, low-pitched voice moves nimbly from person to person, capturing personality and mood, her empathy palpable.' —The Washington Post

From the celebrated author of The Nightingale and The Four Winds comes Kristin Hannah's The Women—at once an intimate portrait of coming of age in a dangerous time and an epic tale of a nation divided.

Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sun-drenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path.

As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is overwhelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets—and becomes one of—the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost.

But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam.

The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.
Reviews
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Anonymous

I rarely give five stars, but this book is one of the best books I have read this year. Kristen Hannah tells a story that needed to be told.

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Anonymous

Kristin Hannah never fails!!

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Anonymous

Couldn’t put it down! So moving, painful and inspiring at the same time. Had no idea how overlooked women were. Very sad time in our history. Highly recommend this book

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Connie

Excellent book from beginning to end. I definitely experienced a full range of emotions. No doubt, it will stay with me. I too wore a POW bracelet for years. Kept it even longer. Unfortunately it burned in a home fire. Though I was not in Vietnam, I did become a nurse. In part, because of it. This book evoked many bitter sweet memories of that time.

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Marla H.

On of the very best books I have read about Vietnam, women supporting each other, invisibility of women, love and the lasting effects of war. As always Hannah does an exceptional job of developing her characters while telling a historical story that must be remembered. Five stars to the author and narrator.

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Anonymous

Excellent story and reader

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Carol M.

This was one of the best books that has come around in a long time. I thought I had it all figured out, but no. What a gut punch with a satisfying ending all at the same time.

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Katfish

I could not stop listening to this book! Hannah does an amazing job capturing the complexities and nuances of our country’s war in Vietnam and the treatment of our returning military veterans. I had never really thought about the women in Vietnam, but their valor and service are brought to life in this fabulous novel.

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Anonymous

Disappointed in the cheesy romance dialogue (the breathless narrator didn’t help), the predictable turns, and a noticeable political slant. However, this is an enlightening story about the vital role women have played in wars and conflicts. They’ve been grossly under appreciated and rarely acknowledged. This subject deserves a deeper dive after reading this book. I felt the last chapter or two touched on quite a few important issues that deserved more attention and wrapped up too quickly, as if this was an essay that needed to cover a certain number of lecture topics, and the author was rushing to submit it on time.

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Anonymous

I really enjoyed this audio book and found it difficult to put down. I learned so much of what women (and men) went through in Vietnam and after their return. I loved the main character, and I cried for her, was angry for her, and rejoiced with her. Very emotional story, well told and narrated.

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Chris B.

Great book that captures the mood of the Viet Nam era and it’s aftermath through a compelling story.

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Anonymous

I was a child and a young teen during the war's active years, and Kristin Hannah's deft storytelling is helping me put into perspective the chaos of those turbulent times and the impact on me and my family.

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William C.

Parts of the book do not seem to be realistic I was an Army officer from 1969 to 1973 I do not see a surgeon smoking pot for obvious reasons.

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Anonymous

This book deserves a 5-star rating. One of the best books I’ve ever listened to (I listened to the audiobook). The story line was phenomenal and I learned so much about the Vietnam war and the women who served. The narrator, Julia Whelen, was spot on. I absolutely loved this book!!!

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Anonymous

I loved this book. One of the best books I’ve listened to so far! I couldn’t stop listening and was sad when it ended that there wasn’t another 10 hours to listen to. Narrator was great as well! I highly recommend downloading this one.

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Bonnie I.

So enlightening. My heart ached for all the Vietnam veterans and nurses who served our country. Beautifully written.

Shameful how all vietnam vets, both men and women, were treated when they returned home from serving their country. It was enlightening to learn about the plight of unrecognized women who served with valor. This book clearly unpacked the saga of the women who were not valued as hero’s of the Vietnam War. However, I was very disappointed in how prejudicial the author was toward wealthy, white, conservatives - particularly Frankie’s parents. They represented the era of WWII veterans who did not talk about their experience in the military and that generation was all about creating a safe environment to protect their families from the fear and threat of war that they, and their WWI parents survived. Frankie had no problem accepting a house, brand new Mustang and a closet full of clothes from her ‘oh so terrible’ parents. Her parents bailed her out of one bad decision she made after another. They never abandoned her no matter how disrespectful she was toward them. And, although Frankie went on and on about how she returned from war a different woman with different expectations than what her parents raised her to have … all she really wanted was a house, to be married and have a baby. And, the reverse discrimination toward men, white men specifically, was abhorrent. Men have fought and given their lives serving their country in every war including Vietnam. Men have sacrificed home, family and personal lives to serve as heads of government in every capacity. Men of integrity represent loving and selfless fathers, brothers, uncles, sons and husbands. Like Frankie, Barbara and Ethyl… most women are looking for strong, kind men to share a life of respect and love. Gender disrespect of any kind is unacceptable.

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Anonymous

Absolutely loved this book, a story that needed to he told. Kristin Hannah does not disappoint. Excellent book!

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Sonia G.

I really enjoyed this book, great perspectives on the women in the war

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Sam M.

Would give 6 stars if I could

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Anonymous

Couldn’t put it down…

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Marsha V.

Excellent view of war from a woman’s perspective. Kristin Hannah does not disappoint; I thought The Nightingale was a better book.

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Kim C.

Excellent book! I highly recommend this book.

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Evelyn C.

Great rendering of history in various adpects, i.e. signing up, unpreparedness and adapting, struggles, coming home, and consequences. Good character development and descriptions of emotions.

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Marchell I.

What a fantastic book

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KarenG

Excellent book. Interesting characters and story. The maturing of a young adult woman finding her way to be true to herself and honor her brother.

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Katrina J.

While listening to this novel I became attached to the characters which were portrayed so vividly. The story drew me in and made me feel as if I were there, scared, strong and determined. The feeling that bubbles up when the main character returned home brought me to tears. I served 26 years in the Air Force with the last 5 years as an Aerovac Flight Nurse and I still tear up when listening to the National Anthem and the star spangled banner. Thank you for telling this Story! The narrator was fabulous!

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Dallas G.

Book was very enlightening . Help me put more into perspective with the Vietnam era.

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Dolores Q.

Amazing account of the lives of the nurses who served in Vietnam. Truly touching, heartbreaking and eye opening. Fantastic read!! And A grateful “Thank you “ to the nurses!

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Anonymous

Wonderful story with such fabulously developed characters! Long but worth it!

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Anonymous

I served in the Navy, during the Vietnam war, but not over seas, or in combat, but as a dental technician. I completely understood the frustration Frankie felt after leaving the military. I usually did not tell anyone I had been in the military, because of the hate people had of the war and the people that served. I just forgot to talk about that part of my life. 30 years later, when it was ok to talk about it, I do tell people that I served. They are shocked. This story really needed to be told. I also had a POW bracelet and when I visited the Vietnam Memorial in Washing DC, I found his name. I cried.

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Joyce G.

Enjoyed this novel about a topic that not many talk or know about.

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Anonymous

Great historical fiction!

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Jamie

Great story about Vietnam and the women who served.

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Patricia H.

I loved this book. It may be the saddest book I ever read, but it was also inspiring. It is a story that needed to be told. Having lived through that era, it brought back a lot of memories.

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britbird

An absolutely brilliant read!! Jaw dropping in terms of learning about the reality of the impact on women who served in this war . Highly emotive with characters drawn so well you can see them clearly. I love this author & her narrator!

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Anonymous

The book became interesting with more complexity and meaning at its midpoint. Challenges with parental acceptance were sadly believable. A great look into the woman's view through the Vietnam war and their 'acceptance' back home. Sadly, Hannah can't resist the Pollyanna beginning and ending. It would have been more original to end the story in Montana where Frankie's possibilities are open. Great narrations!

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Anonymous

Thought it was a great book! Always love when I learn something. So sad! Great narrators.

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Arlene F.

Excellent character development and storyline. The narrator was easy to listen to and had all of the perfect inflections.

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Elizabeth B.

Thus book was a very good. I couldn't stop listening.

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Susan R

Although I agree with others that the writing style could be better, I still gave it 5 stars because the storyline and characters are so good. I would recommend this book.

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Rosalie F.

As always, beautifully written!

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Paula W.

The title is perfect. Though focused mainly on one character,the story is that of many women like her. The narrator does a fantastic job of inflecting emotion into her reading. Just the right tone and inflection. Quite often I was brought to tears because of the emotional effects on me. Absolutely my favorite book and audiobook to date.

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Carrie K.

This novel creates a picture of women before, during and after war. In an era where women in war zones were not acknowledged as they should have been. It is very realistic in how we react, absorb and deny truths of trauma. An excellent portrayal which needs to be read.

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Suzy B.

SUPER predictable. I felt like I was watching a soap opera.

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Diane M.

Fantastic. Expect the unexpected

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Doctor CCC

The story was captivating, and the narrator is excellent

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Anonymous

Good

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Brittany

this book was very hard not to binge on. I could not put it down. just when you thought you could predict the outcome, the plot twisted and thickened. I laughed, and cried. was angry, and cried more, then was excited and happy. a novel allowing you so many emotions in it, is a good read in my book!

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Hannah L.

Wonderful character development, vivid details and emotional writing. Good for those looking for a book about pain and grief

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Anonymous

I found the book so interesting that I had a hard time when I had to stop listening. I wanted to hear what was happening.

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Anonymous

Grateful to know more about the women who served in the war in Viet Nam through this fictionalized account.

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Angela S.

It sticks with me. I could not stop listening. Well written!

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Amy F.

Highly recommend. A human side to a period in history we tend to forget. A novel yet full of history.

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Karissa W.

Fantastic! An emotional roller coaster but wow so eye opening!

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Angie D.

The best book I’ve ever read/listened too! Could NOT quit listening!! Also was enlightened on the Vietnam war. I was born in 1965 so really didn’t know that much about it! Breaks my heart to think how those that served were treated upon return from Hell on Earth. We can’t do enough for our veterans!!

A wonderful insight into the contributions that women make and the pain they endure in times of war.

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Natalie M.

This book was more than moving . It changed my life, changed how I view our veterans. And incredible how far women have come and how was still have a long way to go. Loved this book so much

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TOBY L.

Well written. A good narration of the Viet Nam experience and PTSD.

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Fiona R.

Excellent historical perspective. Worth the read

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Kathy W.

One of the best books ever.

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Anonymous

I couldn't put it down. Kristin Hannah is a great story teller.

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Anonymous

Very moving and insightful! I'm glad she did her research as it was educational and well worth the time. Fantastic!

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Dena M.

Fantastic!!

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Anonymous

I always learn so much whenever I read books by Kristin Hannah. I was moved to tears and thought about the lives of these people for days. Excellent writer!!

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Linda B.

Sad time war. I was born in 1960. But I had a POW bracket. I wore it everyday and I do remember thinking about what the young man was going thru . This book was excellent and enjoyed every minute of it. Even though it was sad and true

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Bird

I didn’t serve in Viet Nam, but I had family and friends who did… and not all came back. I was hesitant to listen to this book… but it was outstanding… even if I cried through the ending.

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Wendi C.

The author was so descriptive and the narrator brought each character to life. I could see, hear and smell the action! The story was heartbreaking and it gave me a new perspective of what it was like for the Viet Nam vets and how so much disinformation was fed to the American people. So sad.

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Anonymous

I grew up with the war and the draft, this book opened my eyes to what the women went through. They were heroes too.

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Rhonda M.

This is probably the best book I’ve listened to in a long time. Narrators were great and the story of these woman was heartbreaking. Definitely a book I’ll recommend.

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Rachel B.

Very good! As good as The Nightingale. The narrator was great.

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Anonymous

very moving. real story.

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Jeanette F.

Wow!!!!!!!!

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Christine R.

A true eye opener for those not knowing anything about the Vietnam War

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James L.

As a veteran helicopter pilot in RVN with the 101st, I was very moved by her story! And, just as an aside, I flew quite a few "Doughnut Dollies". They were great volunteers.

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Tracy D.

The story was excellent. It brought back many memories of my childhood and you teens. The treatment the returning vets received was atrocious, especially for the women that served. I will encourage my daughters to read/ or listen to this story for both the history lesson and to see how far women have come and have to go. This was only my second audio book. It takes some getting used to. The voice distracted me from my visualization of the character.

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Anonymous

I loved it. I thought the book was very good, well written. Get my attention, the whole time. The narrator was wonderful, she made it seem so real, well spoken

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Jaclyn R.

It kept moving.

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MONIQUE O.

Fantastic, detailed writing and emotional story. Made me think of that time in our world.

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Kathy K.

This brings to life many of the hidden truths of the horrific Vietnam War. What a massive undertaking Kristin took on in writing this novel. Appreciate her bravery and her sensitivity to bringing to light real issue many wish were never brought to life. This is a great read…if you have the chance to visit the Vietnam dedications in DC this may even resonate more deeply with you. It certainly did for me…

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Anonymous

What an experience! It’s one of those books that stays with you…the highs, the lows, and the in-betweens. Layers of excellent storytelling is enhanced by a strong narrative voice. One of my favorite ‘listens’ to date! Mo

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Anonymous

Absolutely one of the best books I’ve read in a long time.

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Anonymous

I thought it was a great story, from beginning to end. There were lots of different emotions listening to the book. The story was about bravery, taking chances, survival, true friendship and learning how to trust again and seek help. Enjoy!

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Julie T.

Too sad, too cliche, too repetitive, not enough depth to the characters. I won't read another Kristen Hannah. Whenever something good happens, the character dies...I really don't understand why this book is so popular. It didn't even tell me much about the women in Vietnam...

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Christine H.

Great story line, I really enjoyed it.

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Anonymous

Wonderful!

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Christine B.

One if the best I’ve read

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Anonymous

Another great book by Kristin Hannah

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Christine L.

Usually love her books. This was rather predictable and quite frankly already written. It’s worth a read for sure, but she just can’t outdo Nightengale. Enjoy.

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Anonymous

Very interesting story line.

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Sandra29plms

I think this might be one of the best books I’ve read, so heartbreaking, intense, and brave! LOVE this book!

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Barbara N.

The first half of the book reminds me of TV show China Beach of nurses in Vietnam. The second half of the book was original and brought back memories of our country during those years of both protests and sacrifices.

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Kylie L.

Kristin Hannah DOES NOT MISS. No author gets me as invested as she does. This is just another wonderful and amazing adventure she takes us on with Frankie. Thank you Kristin!

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Susan S.

A MUST READ!!!

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KateinSD

What an amazing book! One of the best books I’ve ever read and I read A LOT!! So good, just a great story about the women of Vietnam. Opened my eyes to a past I was too young to know much about.

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Stephanie K.

This book hit every emotion possible. I found myself being angry more than anything. We didn’t learn about the Vietnam war like we did the others- it was absolutely gutting to hear how vile it was, and even worse to hear the treatment of the soldiers upon returning home. The one thing it kept me thinking was thank God Frankie came from home- her recover story would have been far different had she been in a lower class.

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Lisa H.

Good listen. Interesting to learn more about the Vietnam war and nursing.

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Anonymous

I love the story. Very captivating and real.

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Jane D.

I was a teenager during the war. As with all her books, Kristin uses a story to expose the war in Vietnam and consequences. History has repeated itself. As always, the narrator was perfect.

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Ceilynn Howse

Incredible book. I loved the story, and the narrator was excellent!

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Tara G.

Incredible book!!

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Jessica R.

Always love Kristin Hannah. This was no different! Such a great book!

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Robin H.

One of Ms Hannah’s best.

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Kim Ellis

Absolutely love...from start to finish. Kristen Hannah delivers another 5 star book..

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