Books in the series Code Name Verity

Code Name Verity is a gripping and emotionally charged historical thriller set against the backdrop of World War II. When a British spy plane crashes in Nazi-occupied France, two best friends are separated. One, a secret agent known as 'Verity,' is captured by the Gestapo and forced to write her confession. The other, Maddie, is the pilot who must navigate the dangers of the French Resistance to find her friend. This masterfully woven tale explores the depths of human endurance and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.

Perfect for readers who love intense historical fiction and complex narratives, this book is an ideal choice for teens and adults interested in espionage, aviation, and the female experience during wartime. Elizabeth Wein's storytelling is both brutal and beautiful, featuring an unreliable narrator and a plot full of shocking twists. It is a great choice for fans of The Book Thief or Salt to the Sea who are looking for a story that is as heart-wrenching as it is heroic.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of female friendship and loyalty under extreme pressure.
• Intricate, non-linear storytelling with a stunning unreliable narrator twist.
• Rich historical detail regarding WWII aviation and espionage.
• A deeply moving and unforgettable conclusion that resonates long after the final page.

Rose Under Fire is a gripping and emotionally resonant historical novel that follows Rose Justice, a young American ATA pilot during World War II. While flying a routine mission, Rose is intercepted by the Luftwaffe and sent to Ravensbrück, a notorious Nazi concentration camp for women. There, she encounters the 'Rabbits'—political prisoners who have been subjected to horrific medical experiments. Amidst the darkness and despair of the camp, Rose finds strength in the bonds of sisterhood and the power of poetry to sustain the human spirit.

This book is perfect for readers who love deeply researched historical fiction and stories of incredible female bravery. It is an ideal choice for those interested in the untold stories of women during WWII and the resilience of the human heart under extreme circumstances. Fans of Elizabeth Wein's Code Name Verity will find this companion novel equally haunting and unforgettable, offering a stark yet hopeful look at survival and the enduring power of friendship.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of female friendship and solidarity in the face of unspeakable horror.
• Richly detailed historical setting that brings the reality of Ravensbrück to life.
• A moving tribute to the role of art and poetry as tools for survival and resistance.
• Compelling protagonist whose growth from a naive pilot to a resilient survivor is deeply moving.

Set against the backdrop of World War II in a remote Scottish village, The Enigma Game is a pulse-pounding historical thriller that brings together three unlikely heroes. Fifteen-year-old Louisa Adair, seeking to escape the Blitz and the ghosts of her past, finds herself caring for an elderly German woman in Windyedge. Her life soon intersects with Ellen, a volunteer RAF driver, and Jamie, a determined flight leader. When a mysterious German pilot lands nearby and leaves behind a secret key, Louisa discovers an unparalleled treasure: an Enigma machine capable of decoding enemy messages.

This gripping novel is perfect for readers who love historical mysteries and stories of unsung heroes. Elizabeth Wein masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, technical intrigue, and deep emotional resonance. It is an ideal choice for fans of Code Name Verity or anyone interested in the high-stakes world of code-breaking and aerial combat during WWII. The diverse perspectives and rich historical detail make it a standout addition to any young adult library, offering a fresh look at the bravery required behind the front lines.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes WWII thriller centered on the legendary Enigma machine.
• Features a diverse cast of characters working together to outsmart the enemy.
• Perfect for fans of historical fiction, military history, and complex mysteries.
• A compelling companion to the award-winning Code Name Verity series.

The Pearl Thief is a captivating historical mystery that serves as a prequel to the acclaimed Code Name Verity. Set in the lush but socially complex landscape of 1930s Scotland, the story follows fifteen-year-old Julia Beaufort-Stuart. After a mysterious injury lands her in the hospital, Julia returns to her family's estate only to find a web of secrets. A missing employee and the discovery of a body thrust her into a dangerous investigation where she must navigate the sharp divides of social class and the deep-seated prejudices against the Scottish Traveller community.

This novel is perfect for readers who love intricate historical settings and strong, intelligent female leads. Elizabeth Wein masterfully blends a coming-of-age journey with a gripping whodunit plot, making it an ideal choice for fans of period dramas and atmospheric mysteries. As Julia befriends the McEwen family, she learns about the harsh realities of bias, making this a thought-provoking read for older teens interested in social justice and historical realism. It is a great choice for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of romance and high stakes.

Highlights:

• A thrilling prequel featuring the beloved character Julia Beaufort-Stuart before the events of WWII.
• Richly detailed setting in pre-war Scotland and the fascinating history of river pearls.
• Explores important themes of prejudice, classism, and social justice through a teenage lens.
• A compelling mix of mystery, romance, and historical exploration that stands alone or complements the series.