The White Mouse

 

BOOK REVIEW

CODE NAME HELENE

 By 

Ariel Lawhon

Code Name Helene is based on the true story of Nancy Wake or the White Mouse as she was known by the Germans during World War Two. This masterly crafted novel by Ariel Lawhon opens with Nancy parachuting into France. Her task is to unite the Maquis, arm them with weapons and prepare them for the invasion of France. In a series of flash backs we learn about the real Nancy and what inspired her to fight for her adopted country of France.

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, she travels to Europe in 1936 and finds herself in Paris where she works as journalist. It is here she witnesses the atrocities of the Germans. She meets the handsome Henry Fiocca, falls in love with him and they are married just as the war begins.

Nancy helps the resistance and saves Jews, airman and wanted citizens by secreting them across the border into Spain. Henry becomes aware that they are being watched, their telephone is tapped and their mail is being checked. Just in time he arranges for Nancy to flee across the border. Their parting is agonising and tears at their hearts, but it has to be done. Her journey of some months is fraught with danger as she is almost captured by the Germans. A compatriot is taken and ends up in Dachau. Eventually, she reaches England and is recruited by SOE. It is here she is trained in unarmed combat and the use of weapons.

After the war Nancy was recommended for numerous medals in Australia but was turned down. Many years later the Australian Government apologised and offered to give her the medals. She is famously quoted as saying: ‘You can stick your medals you know where.’ France, the United Kingdom and New Zealand recognised her contribution and awarded her medals.

I can highly recommend this book, it has everything, romance, intrigue, revenge and the tension is almost unbearable as Nancy risks her life time and again. She was a thorn in the side of the Germans as they hunted for her throughout the war. An incredible true story and it makes me proud that she fought for those oppressed. After you read this, no book will ever be the same, for this story, written with a perfectly balanced dialogue and incredible characterisation has no equal. A must read.

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