Brenda ~The Sisters~Book Witch's Reviews > The Women

"The Women" is an emotional and unforgettable story that immerses readers in the heart of the Vietnam War, with women taking center stage. Among them is Frankie, a nurse whose journey is a poignant exploration of the overlooked experiences of female heroes in war.

Before delving into "The Women," I hadn't realized how traditionally the focus had been on the male experience, as though women were barely acknowledged as if "There were no women in Vietnam" in the narrative. Kristin Hannah’s "The Women" offers a different perspective by highlighting that there were “women in Vietnam," and encountering them was a matter of luck for soldiers who had managed to avoid hospitals under the harsh lights.

One of Kristin Hannah's signature trademarks is presenting history from the resilient perspective of women who must summon strength to survive challenging times. Through Frankie’s journey, Kristin Hannah showcases bravery, compassion, and dedication. She shows us the trauma women faced during and after the war, shedding light on their often harsh treatment upon returning home. It's eye-opening to realize how overlooked female heroes in war are, and how much we don't know or think about their experiences. Recognizing their struggles adds depth to our understanding of the war's impact on all involved.

BUT Kristin Hannah has also been critiqued for overdramatizing her stories, and here she leans towards more soap opera drama with a clichéd romantic element. Despite Frankie facing adversity and challenges, the plot's predictability makes it seem more like a checklist of plot devices rather than adding complexity to the characters. While it might have reflected the era, the portrayal of Frankie's vulnerabilities felt more like a weakness than a demonstration of her growth and resilience, which would have mirrored the strength of women today—something Hannah accomplishes in "The Four Winds." It's frustrating to see her character defined more by her weaknesses than her strengths, especially considering Hannah's reputation for crafting strong female protagonists.

Despite these criticisms, "The Women" offers a refreshing look and insight into the struggles faced by women in wartime, serving as a reminder of the resilience and sacrifices of female veterans.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley