Like many other readers, I was surprised by the meaning of ‘pianist’ in the title. After what seemed to me a slow start which required determination not to DNF, the pace and excitement picked up. I liked the short chapters and the characters and I would try reading more from this popular author.

I have enjoyed several of the books by Mandy Robotham which I have read in the past. However, this one didn’t appeal to me as much as her earlier books. I love historical fiction books and especially those that occur during WWII. I don’t know if I am just overloaded from reading books in that genre, but I think I need to take a break.

One of the things I was surprised about was that a pianist was an individual who sent codes through the radio. I had assumed it was an actual pianist who had been selected to play with the orchestras that were used at the concentration camps. That was a nice surprise because I learned something new about that time period. The two main characters were really well developed and I did enjoy getting a view into their lives. But I did not connect with them and the storyline enough to keep me invested in the book.

However, there are plenty of more positive reviews, so I encourage you to give it a chance if you are interested in WWII historical fiction books.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!

Having enjoyed Mandy Robotham's previous works, I was eagerly anticipating her latest novel, "The War Pianist." Set against the evocative backdrop of World War II, the premise promised intrigue and emotion. Unfortunately, the book didn't quite meet my expectations.

The main issue for me was the lack of depth in the characters. Despite the rich historical setting, I struggled to connect with them on an emotional level. They felt somewhat one-dimensional, making it hard to become fully invested in their journeys.

The most compelling parts of the story were the chapters where Marnie and Corrie first met. These moments were filled with rawness and heart, offering a glimpse into the real inner workings of the characters. It was a scene that stood out for its emotional intensity and authenticity. However, this depth came too late in the book, leaving much of the narrative feeling flat and disconnected.

Overall, while "The War Pianist" had moments of promise, it didn't capture my interest as much as I had hoped. Fans of Robotham's earlier novels might still find elements to enjoy, but for me, it lacked the emotional resonance that makes for a truly compelling read.

The War Pianist by Mandy Robotham is an epic and comprehensive novel that will educate as you read. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The novel focuses on 1940 and 1941 in both London and Holland. We see the war through the eyes of two women, one in each country. They are both war pianists which is another name for radio operatives. Both were incredibly brave, outwardly seemingly ordinary women. Both sacrificed in order to fight against evil. Both had strong characters and both loved their families. Their war was across the airwaves – until it wasn’t – then both were part of the resistance, seeking to free Europe from the Nazi grip.
We follow the resistance across Holland. They are brave men, women and children who have to adapt and learn to think on their feet.
All the characters were well drawn, realistic and likable. The landscape of the war – in both countries – was vividly painted by the author.
The novel was written from the alternating points of view of the lead characters.
This is an epic read that consumed me.
I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

The War Pianist is exquisite writing of historical fiction at its finest. Thoroughly researched, the characters come alive under the author's pen.
Marnie Fern has a close relationship with her grandfather and is devastated when his shop is destroyed during a bombing. The blitz in London is affecting everyone's lives. Combing through the rubble she discovers a radio set he had unbeknownst to her been working as an undercover radio operator helping the Dutch resistance.
I will admit the title of the book had me fooled. No piano or playing of one was included in the book.
Pianist were referred to as such during WWII as a person of any age operating a radio often in Morse code. Marnie knows she must continue on as a radio operator now, for him.
Another pianist is in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. these women put their lives on the line for the war effort. You can feel the tension rolling in with the twists and turns as the book moves along at a good pace. We see a lot of character development in Marnie compared to the start of the book, her grandfather's death encourages her to move onward and upward.
An emotionally moving book.

Pub Date 16 Feb 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

This historical fiction novel takes place in World War II blitzed London and Nazi-Occupied Amsterdam. We follow two War Pianists as they live their lives through the devastating war whilst working for the Dutch Resistance effort.

I did not find my myself falling in love with this book. I found it quite slow at the beginning, although there were some engrossing action, heartwarming and romantic sections. I found this book to be a pleasant read for someone who does not usually reach for historical fiction books. I appreciate the fact that readers are able to get an insight into everyday life during WWII in these two cities and the trials and tribulations that came along with it.

I give this book 3 stars as I found the storytelling to be comfortable but there were some things lacking in the storyline.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.

So powerful and strong the story is one of strength. The suspense and tension is off the charts. The war pianist is a story that I will not forget.

The War Pianist is a different World War II story, taking place in England and The Netherlands. The Pianists are those who transmitted messages via Morse Code, back and forth, aiding the resistance and the government of England. The story is well written, one I could not put down. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Set during world war 2 in London, when Marnie's grandfather dies during a bomb attack Marnie finds out about her grandfather secretly sending messages to France. Marnie decides to help where her grandfather left of. A well written story.

Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy for review

I have enjoyed other books from this author and this was no exception. This was a fast paced and thrilling wartime read.

Mandy Robotham books are really special and I thoroughly enjoy her historial fiction books despite this not being the type of book I normally read.

Marnie Fern works for the BBC during war-time London at the height of the Blitz. Her world is torn apart when her beloved grandfather dies during one of the nightly bombing sessions which she narrowly avoided herself. Upon exploring the wreckage of her grandfather's shop she discovers some hidden radio equipment which raises her curiosity. Around the same time she meets the mysterious Willem who reveals her grandfather was helping the Dutch resistance with intelligence using radio transmitters. Marnie soon discovers that, like her grandfather, she has a talent for using and translating code on the transmitters.

On the other side of the transmitter, Dutch resistance member, Corrie Bakker sacrifices her own freedom to ensure the safety of her family and loved one. Will Marnie and Willem be able to save her in time?

As always, these books are fast paced and keep the reader enthralled. So excited for the next one.

This book is fantastically written and weaves a very interesting story with all the tension and the drama it certainly was an inspiring book.

Marnie lives in London and works for the BBC she ends up helping Holland resistance as a wireless operator and helps Willem who is in London. We then see what happens over the course of a few months which was really good to see it from the Dutch perspective.

I have read a few books by this author and all of them are worth reading would recommend.

At the beginning of WWII, the Netherlands were invaded long before France. The Dutch resistance were working with London to share information to try and stop Hitler. This story taught me about a Pianist: A person who operates or controls a radio transmitter – often in code. Marnie Fern works for the BBC, but when her grandfather is killed in an air raid, she finds out that he was working undercover as a pianist, a radio operator, with the Dutch resistance. She quickly figures out the code and begins to transmit messages to his contact, known as Daisy. She takes on the name of Lizzy, from one of her favourite books. When there is no response one night, Willem heads to Amsterdam to see if they can find out what happened to her. Marnie convinces his co-resistance worker to take her to Amsterdam to try and find Willem, so they set off. What has happened to Daisy, aka Corrie Bakker, Willem's mother. His sister, Kees, has already been killed, his mother must survive. Where is Willem now?

Although this story is not based on one real person, it is the culmination of many resistance fighters. Research using personal diaries helped flesh out the characters in the resistance as well as Marnie who was based on Marjorie Redman, a sub-editor for The Spectator Magazine. Lothar Selig is an evil German officer, who is trying to work his way up in Hitler's favour. He is ruthless, yet vain as well. This is used against him. Although this is historical fiction, settings and events, such as hiding wanted persons in the Artis Zoo actually happened. The characters are brave, smart, willing to give up their lives to save others, and tenacious. They move from place to place while sending messages so as not to get caught. Once they complete a mission they are on, the story quickly wraps up, a bit too quickly for me, as I had become invested in this story and it felt a bit rushed to me. The War Pianist is a book about courage, family, loss, betrayal, espionage, bravery, strength, resolve and love. It was well written and researched, what I have come to expect from Mandy Robotham's books. I liked that I learned about another aspect of WW2 and the terrible things that happened. We must never forget.

Constant tension and vigilance for World War Two radio operators in the UK and occupied Netherlands. Gripping plot and a bit of romance thrown in.

WWII history about a woman who is a Pianist (radio transmitter) passing information to the Dutch Resistance. I enjoyed learning more of the Dutch side of the war.

A easy to read historical fiction romance. Some twists and turns but the well written story one has come to expect from Mandy Robotham.

This story, set in London and Amsterdam during the early years of World War 2, is a real immersive and gripping read.
In London, during the Blitz, Marnie finds herself involved in helping the Dutch resistance. Besides her job at the BBC, she becomes a secret radio operator who communicates, codes and decodes messages, a war pianist. This is a skilled and risky activity because radio communication must be quick and effective so the signal does not get picked up by the enemy.
In Amsterdam, Marnie has her contact, Corrie. Corrie is an active member of the resistance in occupied Amsterdam. She is also a war pianist.
But things go wrong for Corrie and Marnie finds herself involved in this war much deeper than she had planned.
I could not put down this book. I learned a lot about the war pianists and how crucial their role was. I also learned about the very special role the Artis Zoo in Amsterdam played during the war, and how it saved many people.
The writing and pace was excellent and brought to life how people felt in London during the blitz, being bombed time after time, and in Amsterdam, having to live with the enemy’s permanent presence, intimidation and cruelty. Descriptions are very vivid, with sights, sounds and scents, the characters are strong and the plot keeps the reader engaged until the last sentence.
It was my first read by Many Robotham. What a great author. I will definitely read her again.

It is a tale of love but also a tale of friendship, danger, risk and sacrifice. Mandy is a special kind of writer who will have you living the lives of the people she is writing about, seeing the world as they see it and spellbound right to the end of the book, and this is no exception. It is another must read book. Once you have started it, you won’t want to put it down.

Any historical fiction fan will love this book. WW2 historical fiction is a crowded genre so it is rare to find a truely unique story but this book fits the bill. Excellent plot, characters and storytelling. Very quick read that anyone would enjoy!

I’ve enjoyed every book by this author; I know how much research and thought goes into the stories she tells so I was excited for this.
I was quickly transported to a time where danger was everywhere and you could trust nobody. Marnie is an interesting character and more than what she first seems. I loved how her character developed throughout the book. Willem is a great character too; fiercely loyal and willing to do anything for those he loves.
Full of drama, heart and danger; realising the lengths people went to during this time is a stark reminder of that part of history.
Well written and thought provoking.