The War Nurses
The War Nurses by Anthea Hodgson, published by Random House Australia on April 12, 2023, is a historical fiction novel that explores the experiences of two country girls, Minnie Hodgson and Margot McNee, who embark on a journey from Perth to Singapore in 1941. Eager to contribute as nurses during wartime, they encounter both camaraderie and the harsh realities of a city under siege as the Japanese attack leads to chaos and devastation.
Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of friendship and courage amidst the backdrop of World War II. The story follows the nurses as they navigate the challenges of survival, facing separation and the grim realities of prisoner-of-war camps, while also highlighting the tragic events of the Bangka Island Massacre. This edition, comprising 352 pages, presents a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by nurses during the war, drawing inspiration from the author’s own family history.
Official synopsis Publisher
‘A powerful and absorbing story of friendship and courage, bringing to life a history that should never be forgotten. I could not put this book down, even as it broke my heart.’ Kelly Rimmer
In 1941, country girls Minnie Hodgson and Margot McNee set sail from Perth, Australia, for Singapore in search of adventure, full of excitement and keen to do their part working as nurses to the fallen soldiers in a time of war. What they encounter is an army of new friends and the terrors of a city under siege.
When the Japanese attack and Singapore falls, they are forced to flee aboard the Vyner Brooke. The ship is bombed, resulting in utter devastation. Separated in the mayhem, one group of nurses find themselves in prisoner-of-war camps for the duration of the war, surviving on their wits, with humour, dignity, loyalty and determination. But another group of young Australian nurses – the girls on the beach – are washed ashore on Bangka Island, where they will meet a fate that must never be forgotten.
Inspired by the author’s own family story, this is an unforgettable novel of enduring friendship and boundless courage, based on the shocking true events of the Bangka Island Massacre. It is both a riveting tale and an important tribute to our brave nurses who sacrificed so much during World War II.
Praise for Anthea Hodgson-
‘A beautifully woven story which absolutely broke my heart and then mended it in the most bittersweet way.’ Amazon
‘The Drifter heralds the arrival of a strong and fresh new voice in Australian rural literature.’ Book Muster Down Under
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