Catriona's War - Jean Grainger - A Short Summary and Review

 Catriona's War - Jean Grainger - A Short Summary and Review

By: a.d. elliott | Take the Back Roads - Art and Other Odd Adventures

A Rite of Fancy Book Recommendation and Review

An Irish girl's undercover escapade as a Belgian operative for the British Government in the French Resistance.

A short summary:

Catriona’s War follows a young Irish woman drawn into World War II espionage when she goes undercover as a Belgian operative working for the British government within the French Resistance. Navigating occupied France requires constant reinvention, quick thinking, and absolute discretion—mistakes can cost lives.

Through coded messages, shifting identities, and growing danger, Catriona becomes part of a covert struggle that places ordinary people at extraordinary risk. The novel offers a fast-moving glimpse into resistance work, highlighting courage, adaptability, and the quiet determination required to survive a hidden war.

My favorite quote from the book:

"Because, you see, each day I love you more, today more than yesterday and less than tomorrow."

- Jean Grainger, Catriona's War

Questions to ponder while reading:

Who is your family?

Where are your loyalties?

My review:

This is a quick, easy, and entertaining read that offers a fresh angle on WWII fiction. Grainger’s focus on undercover work and identity gives the story a sense of immediacy, and the pacing keeps things moving without bogging the reader down in excess detail.

While I would have liked deeper development in certain areas, particularly around character motivation, the novel remains enjoyable and effective at what it sets out to do. It delivers intrigue, tension, and a capable heroine without overstaying its welcome.

Catriona’s War is a solid choice for readers looking for an accessible WWII story with espionage flair and a strong female lead.

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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life

She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.

You can also browse her online photography gallery at shop.takethebackroads.com.

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