🎧 Immerse Yourself in History – My Books Are Now on Audio!

Exciting news for those of you who love a good story but don’t always have time to sit down with a book—my novels are now available as audiobooks! 📚✨

Whether you're commuting, taking a walk, or simply unwinding at home, you can now experience my WWII heroines’ journeys hands-free. This is a wonderful way to dive into the world of spies, resistance fighters, and fierce women who shaped history.

Available Audiobook Series:

📖 The Resistance Girl Series – Listen Here
📖 Timeless Agents – Listen Here
📖 The Mrs. Imogene Lynch Series – Listen Here

(Currently, audiobooks are only available to U.S. readers on Amazon.com, but I hope this will expand in the future.)

To give you a taste of what’s waiting for you, I’ve added short snippets from each series right here on the blog. Click play and let the stories come to life! 🎶📖

Happy listening!

In Picardys Fields - audiobook intro

by Hannah Byron

The Color of Courage - audiobook snippet

by Hannah Byron

The Unsolved Case of the Secret Christmas Baby - audiobook snippet

by Hannah Ivory

The Resistance Girl Series
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JYT7KFZ

Timeless Agents
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CWD8TK5L

The Mrs Imogene Lynch Series
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BWWSSG3R

Honoring the March SOE Women: A Legacy of Courage

As the year progresses, I continue my tribute to the extraordinary women of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) Section F by remembering those born in March. Each of these brave agents answered the call to resist tyranny, risking their lives to support the Allied cause.

Through their courage, resilience, and ultimate sacrifices, they became integral to the fight against Nazi occupation in France. Their missions were perilous, their endurance remarkable, and their contributions invaluable.

This month, we honor the women whose birthdays fall in March, sharing their stories so they are never forgotten.

Eileen Nearne: The Unbreakable Spirit Behind Codename "Rose"

Eileen Nearne, born on March 16, 1921, in London, was one of the most resilient female agents of the SOE. After spending much of her childhood in France, she returned to Britain during the war and was soon recruited into the SOE’s clandestine operations. Fluent in French and fiercely determined, she trained as a wireless operator—one of the most dangerous roles an agent could take on.

In March 1944, under the codename Rose, Eileen was parachuted into occupied France to work as a radio operator for the Wizard network. For months, she transmitted critical messages between the French Resistance and London, facilitating supply drops, coordinating sabotage missions, and relaying vital intelligence. Despite the constant threat of detection, she remained steadfast, sending over a hundred transmissions—each one a potential death sentence if intercepted.

Her luck ran out in July 1944 when the Gestapo captured her. Despite brutal interrogation and torture, she refused to break, insisting she was an innocent civilian who knew nothing of espionage. Deported to Ravensbrück concentration camp, she endured forced labor and starvation but never lost her resolve. In early 1945, she escaped during a prison transfer and was eventually liberated by American troops.

After the war, Eileen was honored with the Croix de Guerre by France and appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her extraordinary bravery. However, she lived out her later years in quiet solitude, her incredible wartime efforts largely unknown to the world until after her passing in 2010.

Her story, though once hidden, stands today as a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit of the SOE women. She was, and will always be, a symbol of resilience, courage, and quiet heroism.

You can read my version of Eileen’s life and mission is the recently released The Echo of Valor, Codename Rose.

Anne-Marie Walters: The Young Courier of the Wheelwright Network

Born on March 16, 1923, in Geneva, Switzerland, Anne-Marie Walters was the daughter of an English father and a French mother. Fluent in both languages, she joined the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) in 1941. In 1943, recognizing her potential, the Special Operations Executive (SOE) recruited her as a field agent. At just 20 years old, she became one of the youngest female agents in the SOE, operating under the codename "Colette." 

In January 1944, Anne-Marie was parachuted into southwestern France to serve as a courier for the Wheelwright network, led by George Starr. Her role involved transporting messages, coordinating supply drops, and liaising between resistance groups—a perilous task that required constant movement and discretion. She often traveled by bicycle or train, adopting various disguises to evade German forces. Her missions took her across regions such as Auch, Tarbes, and Montréjeau, where she delivered vital information and resources to support sabotage operations against the occupying forces. 

In August 1944, as Allied forces advanced, Anne-Marie and her comrades faced intense combat during the Battle of Castelnau. Despite the dangers, she continued her work until the liberation of the area. For her bravery and contributions, she was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Médaille de la Reconnaissance Française by the French government. 

After the war, Anne-Marie documented her experiences in her memoir, "Moondrop to Gascony," providing a vivid account of her time with the French Resistance. She later settled in France, where she lived until her passing in 1998. Her story stands as a testament to the courage and determination of the young women who risked their lives to fight against oppression.

Vera Leigh: The Overlooked Heroine of the SOE

Born on March 17, 1903, in Leeds, England, Vera Leigh was adopted by an American racehorse trainer and raised in France. She became a successful figure in Parisian haute couture, co-founding the fashion house Rose Valois in 1927. With the onset of World War II and the fall of Paris in 1940, Vera joined the French Resistance, assisting in the escape of Allied servicemen from occupied France. In 1942, she made her way to England and was recruited by the Special Operations Executive (SOE). Operating under the codename "Simone," she was parachuted back into France in May 1943 to serve as a courier for the Donkeyman circuit. Her work involved perilous missions, including delivering messages and coordinating resistance activities. Tragically, she was arrested by the Gestapo in October 1943, endured harsh imprisonment, and was executed at the Natzweiler-Struthof concentration camp in July 1944. Despite her extraordinary bravery and sacrifice, Vera Leigh received only the King's Commendation for Brave Conduct posthumously. Her story is a poignant reminder of the many unsung heroes of the SOE whose contributions have not been fully recognized.

Note: Vera Leigh's life and service will be further explored in the upcoming book, "The Gift of Grace: Codename Simone," as part of the Timeless Agents series.

Women of the Resistance: Forgotten and Famous Heroines

Throughout history, countless women have risked everything to resist oppression, fight for freedom, and aid the war effort from the shadows. Some became legends, like Violette Szabo, whose bravery inspired books and films. Others, like Muriel Byck, Hannie Schaft, and Wanda Gertz, remain lesser known despite their extraordinary courage. This month, in honor of Women's History Month, we shine a light on the famous and forgotten heroines of WWII’s resistance movements—women who fought, spied, sabotaged, and sacrificed. Their stories deserve to be remembered. Here are some for Women History month. Join me in the Facebook Reader Group as we uncover the incredible lives of these fearless women.

📜 Remembering Violette Szabo – 80 Years On

On 5 February 1945, Violette Reine Szabo, a courageous SOE agent, was executed at Ravensbrück concentration camp. She was only 23 years old, but her bravery and resilience left a lasting mark on history.

Born to a British mother and a French father, Violette risked everything to fight for France’s freedom. Twice parachuted into occupied France, she carried out vital intelligence work and led resistance efforts with unwavering determination. Despite being captured in June 1944, she endured brutal interrogations without breaking, protecting her comrades to the very end.

On 2 February 2025, a commemoration was held in her honor, marking 80 years since her execution. Her legacy remains alive through books, films, and the continued admiration of those who recognize her sacrifice.

My own book in the Timeless Agents series about Violette, The Heartbeat of Freedom, Codename Louise, will be written in due time.

Read more about Violette’s story in this recent tribute:
📖 Her story of the Month – Violette Szabo

🕯 Lest we forget.

#VioletteSzabo #SOE #WWIIWomen #WomenOfTheResistance

📜 Remembering Muriel Byck – The SOE Agent Who Never Got to See Victory

Muriel Tamara Byck was a young Jewish woman who risked everything for the cause of freedom. Born in France but raised in Britain, she was recruited into the Special Operations Executive (SOE) and parachuted into occupied France in 1944 as a radio operator—a role with one of the highest mortality rates in the Resistance.

Working under constant danger, Muriel transmitted vital intelligence for the French Resistance, helping coordinate sabotage operations. Tragically, she fell ill with meningitis in May 1944 and died in a makeshift hospital, never living to see the Liberation of France.

Despite her sacrifice, Muriel’s story remains little known. This July, her legacy will be honored in my upcoming novel, The Call of Destiny: Codename Violette, which is now available for preorder:
📖 The Call of Destiny – Preorder Here

For more about Muriel and other Jewish heroines of the SOE, visit:
🌍 Daughters of Yael: Jewish Heroines of the SOE

🕯 Gone but not forgotten.

#MurielByck #SOE #WWIIWomen #WomenOfTheResistance #JewishHeroines

📜 Remembering Hannie Schaft – The Girl with the Red Hair

Hannie Schaft was a Dutch resistance fighter who struck fear into the hearts of Nazi occupiers. A university student turned resistance operative, she helped Jewish children escape, sabotaged enemy operations, and executed Nazi collaborators—earning her a place on the Gestapo’s most-wanted list.

In April 1945, just weeks before the Netherlands was liberated, Hannie was captured and executed. Her final words before being shot: “I shoot better than you.” Even in death, she remained defiant.

Having lived in the Netherlands for many years, I’ve always admired her courage and relentless spirit. Her story has stayed with me, and I’m honored to share it here.

For more on Hannie’s overlooked legacy, read this New York Times tribute:
📖 Hannie Schaft – Overlooked No More

🕯 Lest we forget.

#HannieSchaft #DutchResistance #WWIIWomen #WomenOfTheResistance

📜 Honoring Wanda Gertz – The Woman Who Became a Soldier

Wanda Gertz was a Polish patriot whose determination knew no bounds. Born in 1896 in Warsaw, she was inspired by her father's tales of the January Uprising. At a time when women were barred from combat, Wanda cut her hair, donned male attire, and enlisted in the Polish Legion during World War I under the alias Kazimierz "Kazik" Żuchowicz. Her courage and skill led her to serve in various capacities, including commanding an all-female sabotage unit during World War II. Despite facing imprisonment and numerous challenges, her spirit remained unbroken.

For a comprehensive look into her life and legacy, this article offers detailed insights:
📖 Wanda Gertz – The Symbol of Female Courage in World War II

🕯 Remembering a true heroine.

#WandaGertz #PolishResistance #WWIIWomen #WomenOfTheResistance

📜 Honoring Andrée de Jongh – The Architect of the Comet Line

Andrée de Jongh, affectionately known as "Dédée," was a Belgian resistance heroine who, during World War II, established the Comet Line, a clandestine network that rescued Allied airmen shot down over occupied Europe. Born in 1916 in Schaerbeek, Belgium, she was inspired by the bravery of Edith Cavell, a British nurse executed in World War I for aiding soldiers' escapes. Dédée's unwavering courage led her to personally escort numerous airmen across treacherous terrains, including the Pyrenees, guiding them to safety in neutral Spain. Her relentless efforts saved countless lives, and even after being captured and enduring imprisonment in concentration camps, her spirit remained unbroken.

For a comprehensive look into her life and legacy, this article offers detailed insights:
📖 Andrée de Jongh: Faster Than a Comet

🕯 Remembering a true heroine.

#AndréeDeJongh #CometLine #BelgianResistance #WWIIWomen #WomenOfTheResistance

The Echo of Valor, Codename Rose – Now Available!

I am beyond excited to share that The Echo of Valor, Codename Rose, the second book in my Timeless Agents series, is now live! This book holds a very special place in my heart, as it tells the incredible story of Eileen Nearne, a courageous SOE agent of Section F, and Mia, the contemporary truama therapist, whose journey intertwines with Eileen and her legacy.

One of the most deeply meaningful aspects of this release is the endorsement from Eileen Nearne’s family. I am truly honored that they have not only supported the book but have also given their blessing for me to dedicate it to Eileen’s beloved late niece, Odile Nearne. This recognition means the world to me, and I hope that The Echo of Valor does justice to Eileen’s bravery and resilience.

Odile and Eileen Nearne (Torquay 2009)

As the story of Eileen and Mia, and of course love interest Sebastian Stone, is so important to me, I sincerely hope this book will resonate with readers just as much as it has with me. The journey of writing this book has been both emotional and rewarding, and I am thrilled to finally share it with you all.

With The Echo of Valor, I am proud to have now told the stories of two remarkable SOE agents of Section F—Eileen Nearne and Lise de Baissac, the heroine of The Color of Courage. Their courage, sacrifices, and legacies deserve to be remembered, and I look forward to bringing the rest of the Timeless Agents series to you in the future.

I have been so moved by the early reactions and reviews from my ARC team, and I can’t wait to hear what you think! If you’ve read The Echo of Valor, I would love for you to share your review on:

Amazon (https://mybook.to/EchoofValor)

Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211426139-the-echo-of-valor)

and/or BookBub (https://www.bookbub.com/books/the-echo-of-valor-codename-rose-based-on-a-true-story-timeless-agents-series-book-2-by-hannah-byron)

Thank you all for your support, and I hope you enjoy The Echo of Valor!

Grab your copy now and join me in honoring the extraordinary legacy of Eileen Nearne.

Eileen Nearne

This button or link takes you to The Echo of Valor on Amazon regardless of your country: https://mybook.to/EchoofValor

Revolutionary Roles: Women’s Military Uniforms in WWII

World War II marked a turning point in history—not just on the battlefield but in how societies redefined roles for women. For the first time, women donned official military uniforms, stepping into roles that challenged traditional gender norms and showcased their courage, skill, and resilience. From the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) to the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY), these uniforms symbolized a blend of functionality and groundbreaking progress.

Each of the uniforms featured in this blog post—WAAF, FANY, ATS, CWAC, AWAS, and WAC—represents women’s invaluable contributions to the war effort. While this blog focuses on these specific groups, countless others, including nurses and pilots, also wore uniforms that made history.

It’s important to recognize that this blogpost highlights only a few of the many roles women played in WWII. Their contributions spanned far beyond these groups, with numerous unsung heroines working tirelessly behind the scenes and in active service.

Join me as we explore the stories behind these iconic uniforms, the brave women who wore them, and the revolutionary shift they represented in military and social history.

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FANY Uniforms: A Story of Service and Secrecy

The First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY) played a crucial role during World War II, with its members serving in communications, intelligence, and field operations. Many women agents, including Lise de Baissac and Eileen Nearne, operated under the guise of being part of the FANY. This "cover" provided a layer of official protection while they carried out their daring missions behind enemy lines. The FANY uniform, distinguished by its practical design and smart tailoring, embodied the resilience and courage of the women who wore it.

While the FANY began as a nursing organization, by WWII, its members took on far more diverse and dangerous roles, from radio operators to drivers in active war zones. The uniform was not just a symbol of their service but also a part of the secrecy that made their contributions possible.

Learn more about the FANY and the women who made history in these uniforms here https://www.fany.org.uk/History

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WAAF Uniforms: Service in the Skies and Beyond

The Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) was established during World War II, and its uniform symbolized a new era of women's active involvement in the military. Unlike some other organizations, WAAF members were given official ranks, marking their roles as integral and not just voluntary. Women like Muriel Byck and Noor Inayat Khan, both SOE agents, wore the WAAF uniform as a form of protection and cover for their clandestine missions.

The uniform itself was practical yet smartly designed, consisting of a blue-grey jacket, skirt, and cap, reflecting its connection to the Royal Air Force. Women in the WAAF served in a variety of roles, from clerks and drivers to wireless operators and radar mechanics. For agents like Muriel and Noor, the uniform provided a semblance of legitimacy as they carried out dangerous operations behind enemy lines.

While Noor Inayat Khan tragically lost her life in service, her story, alongside Muriel’s, underscores the immense courage and sacrifice of WAAF members who shaped the war effort in both visible and hidden ways.

Dive deeper into the history of the WAAF and the women who served with bravery here https://rafhornchurch.com/history/waaf/

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ATS Uniforms: Service on the Home Front

The Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), the women’s branch of the British Army during World War II, was a vital part of the military effort. Its uniform, consisting of a khaki jacket, skirt, and cap, mirrored that of their male counterparts while being tailored to women. The ATS uniform symbolized the expanding roles of women, from clerks and cooks to mechanics, drivers, and anti-aircraft gunners.

Among the many women who wore the ATS uniform was Princess Elizabeth, the late-Queen Elizabeth II, who joined the ATS in 1945 as a second subaltern. She trained as a driver and mechanic, becoming the first female member of the royal family to serve in the armed forces. Her service in the ATS not only reflected her dedication but also served as a powerful symbol of solidarity with the people during the war.

The ATS uniform showcased practicality and professionalism, blending the need for functionality with military decorum. For the women who wore it, including Princess Elizabeth, it represented a sense of duty and pride in their contribution to the war effort.

Explore the stories of the ATS and its extraordinary members here https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/war-glamour

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WAC Uniforms: Pioneering Roles in the U.S. Military

The Women’s Army Corps (WAC), established in 1943, marked a significant shift in the U.S. military, allowing women to serve in non-combat roles with official military status. The WAC uniform, designed with practicality and professionalism in mind, included a tailored olive-drab jacket, skirt, and hat, reflecting the military standards of the time.

One of the most notable figures of the WAC was Oveta Culp Hobby, the Corps’ first director. A trailblazing leader, she guided the WAC through its formative years, ensuring women’s roles were respected and impactful. Under her leadership, WAC members served in over 200 job roles, including clerks, radio operators, mechanics, and cryptographers, freeing up men for combat roles and proving the invaluable contributions of women in the armed forces.

The WAC uniform became a symbol of progress and determination, as women stepped into roles traditionally held by men, breaking barriers and reshaping the perception of women in the military.

Learn more about the Women’s Army Corps and its pioneering members here https://unwritten-record.blogs.archives.gov/2013/06/03/dont-walk-like-a-man-be-the-best-wac-that-you-can-be/

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CWAC Uniforms: Canadian Women’s Contributions to the War Effort

The Canadian Women’s Army Corps (CWAC) was formed in 1941, allowing women to officially enlist in the Canadian Army for the first time. The CWAC uniform, a smartly tailored khaki jacket and skirt paired with a peaked cap, represented professionalism and pride in service. It was designed to provide women with practicality and a sense of equality within the military.

Among the many women who served in the CWAC, Joan Kennedy stands out as a trailblazer. As one of the first officers in the Corps, she was instrumental in recruiting and organizing women for military roles. Under her leadership, CWAC members served in critical support positions, such as clerks, typists, drivers, and medical aides, enabling male soldiers to focus on combat duties.

The CWAC uniform became a powerful symbol of Canadian women’s vital role in the war effort. These women not only contributed to the Allied victory but also paved the way for future generations of women in the armed forces.

Discover the inspiring stories of the CWAC and the women who shaped history here https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-womens-army-corps

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AWAS Uniforms: Australian Women Supporting the War Effort

The Australian Women’s Army Service (AWAS), formed in 1941, was the first time Australian women were allowed to serve in the army. The AWAS uniform, featuring a khaki jacket, skirt, and slouch hat, reflected the unique identity of Australian servicewomen. Designed for practicality and function, it became a symbol of their commitment and dedication.

One of the most notable figures in the AWAS was Sybil Irving, its founder and controller. A visionary leader, Irving worked tirelessly to organize and expand the AWAS, ensuring women were prepared and equipped to serve in roles such as clerks, drivers, signal operators, and even anti-aircraft personnel. Under her guidance, the AWAS became a vital part of Australia’s war effort, allowing men to be deployed to combat roles.

The AWAS uniform represented more than just military service; it embodied the pioneering spirit of Australian women who stepped forward to serve their country during its time of need.

Explore the history of the AWAS and the incredible women who wore the uniform here https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/3423

Faceless and Forgotten: The Lost Legacy of Madeleine Lavigne

No known photograph of her exists. No memorial bears her likeness. Yet, Madeleine Lavigne was one of the most extraordinary female agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), a woman who risked everything in the fight against Nazi occupation. Born on February 6, 1912, in Lyon, France, she dedicated nearly four years to resistance work—creating false identity documents, aiding Allied airmen, and eventually operating as a wireless operator under the codename Isabelle. Despite her courage, her image has been lost to history.

Lavigne's work began at the Lyon town hall, where she used her position to forge documents for those in danger. By 1943, she had become more deeply involved, acting as a courier and providing shelter for SOE agents like Henri Borosh. When the Gestapo closed in, she was forced to flee to England, where she underwent para-military and wireless training before parachuting back into France in May 1944 to establish the Silversmith network in Reims.

Her mission was critical—she kept vital communication lines open, coordinated supply drops, and ensured that resistance efforts remained strong in the final months of the war. When Reims was liberated in August 1944, she was reunited with her children in Paris. But instead of living to see peace fully restored, she passed away on February 24, 1945, from an embolism, leaving behind a legacy that, without images or widespread recognition, has faded into obscurity.

Though history has erased her face, her courage endures. Madeleine Lavigne was posthumously honored with the King’s Commendation for Brave Conduct and the King’s Medal for Brave Conduct, a testament to her silent yet vital contribution to the war effort. But beyond official records, she remains a ghost of history—one of the many women who fought and died without the world ever truly knowing their names, let alone their faces.

Perhaps that is why remembering Madeleine is so important. Because heroines should not remain faceless. Because their sacrifices should never be forgotten. Wait until you’ll find out how a modern-day Marianne Latour pursues Madeleine’s picture in “The Shadow of Silence, Codename Isabelle”.

New Recipe Book: A Taste of Wartime Cooking

I’m thrilled to announce the release of my new recipe booklet, A Taste of Wartime Cooking: Wartime Recipes for the Modern Kitchen. This collection of 15 recipes is inspired by the incredible resilience and resourcefulness of those who cooked during the Second World War. It’s free to download, and you can grab your copy here: Download the RecipeBook.

Why Wartime Recipes?
During WWII, rationing forced cooks to get creative, making the most of every ingredient while stretching rations to feed their families. Despite these challenges, they managed to create meals that were not only practical but also comforting and delicious. This booklet pays tribute to their ingenuity and the simple but hearty dishes that became staples of the time.

The recipes in this collection range from savory favorites like Cold Meat Pasties and Guernsey Potato Peel Pie to sweet treats like Brown Betty and Wartime Chocolate Layer Cake. Each one is a small piece of history, adapted to be recreated in your own kitchen with modern ingredients.

How This Booklet Came to Be
The idea for this recipe collection began in my Facebook Reader Group, where I shared wartime recipes during our December theme. The response was overwhelming, with so many of you sharing your enthusiasm and even trying out the dishes yourselves. It was clear these recipes resonated, and I wanted to gather them into a single, easy-to-access booklet as a way of continuing the conversation and celebrating this shared love of history and food.

What’s Next?
This is just the beginning! I plan to create a second recipe booklet next December, featuring even more wartime-inspired dishes as we revisit this theme in the Reader group. In the meantime, I’d love to hear your feedback—what recipes did you enjoy most, how did they turn out, and what would you like to see in the next collection?

Get Your Free Copy!
Download your free copy of A Taste of Wartime Cooking: Wartime Recipes for the Modern Kitchen here: https://BookHip.com/WHDKCCX.

Thank you for joining me on this journey into the kitchens of the past. Let’s honor the creativity and resilience of those who came before us while sharing the joy of cooking with loved ones today.

Happy cooking!
Hannah Byron

January’s Brave Souls of the SOE

As we step into 2025, I invite you to join me on a year-long journey to honor the extraordinary women of the Special Operations Executive’s (SOE) Section F. These courageous women risked everything to fight for freedom during World War II, their bravery, resilience, and sacrifices becoming a lasting testament to the human spirit in the face of tyranny.

Each month, I’ll commemorate the birthdays of these 39 remarkable agents who served in France, often at great personal cost. By the end of the year, we’ll have remembered them all—each story, each life, each sacrifice.

This tribute ties into my passion for bringing their daring missions to life in my Timeless Agents series, which pairs the journeys of these wartime heroines with fictional contemporary women who navigate their 21st-century challenges. Through these dual timelines, I explore themes of female courage, resilience, and the enduring impact of history on our present lives.

January begins with a poignant reflection. Of the seven agents born this month, only two survived the war. The five others lost their lives in the fight for liberty. 

These secret agents should never be forgotten. By sharing their stories, we ensure their courage lives on, igniting a sense of gratitude and admiration in every generation. They inspire my writing and research and remind me daily why their legacy is worth preserving. Let their memory remind us of the values they fought for—freedom, justice, and hope—and inspire us to uphold them in our own lives.

Noor Inayat Khan, born on January 1, 1914, in Moscow and of Indian descent was a princess by birth. Trained as a wireless operator by the Special Operations Executive (SOE) she was sent into occupied France in June 1943 with the code name Madeleine, despite being a pacifist by nature. Dodging the constant threat of capture, Noor’s unwavering commitment to her mission for the CINEMA network exemplified her extraordinary courage. Tragically, she was betrayed, captured by the Gestapo in October 1943, and after a horrendous year of captivity and many escape attempts, was executed at Dachau concentration camp on September 13, 1944. Posthumously, Noor was awarded the George Cross, reflecting the profound impact of her sacrifice in the pursuit of freedom.

Maureen Patricia O’Sullivan, known as “Paddy,” was born on January 3, 1918, in Dublin, Ireland. Fluent in French, she was recruited by SOE to serve as a wireless operator in occupied France. Parachuting into France in March 1944, with codename Josette, she played a crucial role in the FIREMAN network. Despite the constant danger, Paddy’s resilience and dedication were instrumental in supporting the French Resistance. Remarkably, she was the only SOE female agent born in January to survive the war. For her bravery, she was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and the French Croix de Guerre.

Yolande Elsa Maria Beekman, born on January 7, 1911, in Paris to a Swiss father and English mother, moved to London as a child, becoming fluent in English, German, and French. During World War II, she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) and trained as a wireless operator. Her linguistic skills and technical expertise led to her recruitment by the SOE. In September 1943, under the codename “Mariette,” she was deployed to France as a wireless operator for the MUSICIAN network. Despite the constant threat of detection, she maintained vital communications between the Resistance and London. In January 1944, Beekman was arrested by the Gestapo, endured harsh interrogations, and was eventually deported to Dachau concentration camp, where she was executed on September 13, 1944. Her unwavering bravery and sacrifice were posthumously honored with the Croix de Guerre and a Mention in Dispatches.

Yvonne Claire Rudellat, born on January 11, 1897, in Maisons-Laffitte, France, became the first female SOE-trained agent to be deployed to France during World War II. Operating under the codename “Jacqueline,” she served as a courier for the PROSPER network, facilitating communications and coordinating sabotage efforts against German forces. Her dedication and bravery were instrumental in supporting the French Resistance. In June 1943, Rudellat was captured by the Germans and endured imprisonment under harsh conditions. Tragically, she succumbed to typhus in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp on April 23 or 24, 1945, shortly after the camp’s liberation. In recognition of her valor, she was posthumously appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Yvonne Jeanne de Vibraye Baseden, born on January 20, 1922, in Paris, was one of the youngest and most resilient female agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE). Fluent in multiple languages, she served as a wireless operator for the Scholar circuit in France, where she demonstrated remarkable courage under the constant threat of discovery. Captured by the Gestapo in 1944, Yvonne endured solitary confinement and later the horrors of Ravensbrück concentration camp. Miraculously, she survived and was liberated in April 1945. Post-war, she was honored with the MBE and multiple French distinctions, including the Legion of Honour and the Croix de Guerre, a testament to her bravery and dedication to the Allied cause.

Denise Madeleine Bloch, born on January 21, 1916, in Paris, was a courageous French-Jewish SOE agent. After her family evaded Nazi persecution by relocating to Lyon, Denise joined the French Resistance, demonstrating exceptional bravery as a courier and wireless operator for the CLERGYMAN network. In March 1944, codenamed Ambroise, she was clandestinely flown into central France to support sabotage missions against German forces for the DETECTIVE network. Unfortunately, in June 1944, Denise was captured by the Gestapo and endured severe interrogations. Deported to Ravensbrück concentration camp, she was executed on February 5, 1945. Her unwavering dedication and sacrifice were posthumously honored with the Légion d’honneur, Médaille de la Résistance, and Croix de Guerre and King’s Commendation for Brave Conduct.

Diana Hope Rowden, born on January 31, 1915, in England, joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), before being recruited by the SOE and deployed to France in 1943 as a courier for the ACROBAT network, operating under the codename Paulette. Her work involved coordinating sabotage efforts and maintaining vital communications to disrupt German operations. In November 1943, Rowden was arrested by the Gestapo and later deported to Natzweiler-Struthof concentration camp, where she was executed on July 6, 1944. Her bravery and sacrifice were posthumously recognized with the Croix de Guerre and a Mention in Despatches.

Though January’s record was harrowing, most months will thankfully see more survivors.

Now Available: The Resistance Girl Series Books 5–8

I’m thrilled to share the second Resistance Girl Series box set, featuring books 5–8, now available for eBook readers at an incredible price—less than 10 dollars, pounds, or euros! Over 1600 pages of gripping stories. For Kindle Unlimited readers, this box set is a perfect one-click addition to your library.

The Resistance Girl Series Books 5 - 8 on Amazon
or click on the boxset image 🡪

My personal journey with these eight courageous women, spanning the two World Wars, has been transformative as a writer. I crafted each heroine with all the love and skill I could muster. Each ‘resistance girl’ reflects her own kind of bravery, love, and sacrifice.

This collection closes the chapter on The Resistance Girl Series, a project that took five years to complete and has left a profound mark on my heart. Through these fictive women, inspired by real stories and set against true historical backdrops, I hope I’ve brought to life some of the untold stories of female resilience, resistance, and heroism—stories I believe will resonate again in today’s volatile political climate.

Here’s a glimpse of the final four books:

• In The Highland Raven, Sable’s story delves into love, loss, and redemption as she fights to reclaim her agency and heal from past wounds—her courage still lingers with me.

• The Crystal Butterfly allowed me to explore the grace and strength of Edda, a Dutch ballerina torn between family legacy and resistance, her resilience shining like the art she loves.

• Anna, in The London Spymaker, remains one of my most complex heroines: a woman of steely professionalism and hidden vulnerability whose story touched me profoundly.

• Finally, in The Resistance Girls Revisited, all eight heroines (including the five from Books 1–4) meet for a moving reunion in the Swiss Alps in 1948, sharing their stories of courage and friendship.

As I bid farewell to this series, I invite you to join my heroines one last time. Their journeys of love, sacrifice, and bravery will inspire you, reminding us that even in the darkest times, hope always prevails.

And where one story ends, another begins! I’m now fully immersed in the Timeless Agents series—stay tuned for more WWII female-empowerment adventures!

Virginia Hall, aka “The Limping Lady”

Virginia Hall

Virginia Hall, an American secret agent during World War II, became legendary for her courage, resourcefulness, and ability to evade capture. After a hunting accident in Turkey in 1933, Hall lost her left leg and was later fitted with a wooden prosthetic in her hometown of Baltimore, Maryland. She nicknamed her leg “Cuthbert,” and after learning to walk again, she herself earned the nickname “the Limping Lady.”

Saint Cuthbert's piece of timber

Why Hall chose the name of a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon monk, Saint Cuthbert, for her prosthetic leg is unknown, but there are clues that might help explain the connection. Saint Cuthbert was an esteemed clergyman in the monasteries of Melrose and Lindisfarne in the Kingdom of Northumbria, in present-day northern England and southern Scotland. Revered as the patron saint of Northumbria, he was respected by kings and clergy alike, yet he chose a life of humble service. According to legend, he used a piece of driftwood, washed ashore by the tide, as the foundation for his hermit’s retreat.

Perhaps Virginia Hall, already drawn to life in Europe as an aspiring diplomat, felt inspired by Saint Cuthbert’s modesty and resilience. Long before she joined the resistance, Hall worked toward a diplomatic career across European countries, a path that would later transition into her life of espionage. The “foundation” Saint Cuthbert’s timber provided for his simple abode might also have resonated with Hall, as her own “Cuthbert” supported her through difficult missions in hostile territory.

During the war, Hall became a key operative for the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) in Nazi-occupied France, particularly in Lyon and surrounding areas. There, she helped organize resistance networks, plan sabotage missions, and facilitate the escape of Allied soldiers. Her work was so impactful that the Gestapo labeled her “the most dangerous of all Allied spies.”

One notable incident involved Hall’s daring trek across the Pyrenees as she fled to Spain to escape capture. Knowing that her wooden leg could be a hindrance, she sent a message to SOE headquarters, noting that “Cuthbert might cause problems.” Unaware that “Cuthbert” was her prosthetic leg, her superiors replied pragmatically: “If Cuthbert troublesome, eliminate him.”

Virginia Hall’s resilience and determination, along with her ability to overcome immense personal challenges, make her an extraordinary figure in the history of WWII. In my Timeless Agents series, I look forward to honoring her with a dedicated book, The Pace of Power, somewhere down the line.

Nancy Wake: The Legendary “White Mouse”

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Nancy Wake (1945)

Exciting Monthly Themes in the Hannah Byron Reader Group!
Starting in November, I’m bringing something new and fun to my Facebook Reader Group! Each month, we’ll dive into a special WWII theme with engaging quizzes, nostalgic throwback photos, exclusive giveaways, puzzles, and behind-the-scenes stories from history. We’ll also celebrate each other’s birthdays and share our current reads and recommendations—perfect for expanding our TBR lists with friends!

Since my reader group feels like my go-to crew, I’m thrilled to spend more time with everyone there. Will you join in?

We’re kicking off November with Secret Agent Trivia! To get ready, check out the blog post on Nancy Wake below and brush up on her story—you’ll be quizzed on Monday, November 4.

Join me in the Hannah Byron Reader Group here! Looking forward to seeing you there!

Nancy Wake: The Legendary “White Mouse”
Nancy Wake -  a name that still strikes awe among World War II enthusiasts -  was a woman of unmatched bravery, charm, and cunning. Her story is a blend of daring escapes, secret missions, and a fierce determination to defeat the Nazis. But how well do you really know her?

Let’s take a quick dive into the life of this remarkable SOE agent, whose nickname, “The White Mouse”, came from her ability to slip through the clutches of the Gestapo, time after time. But wait—wasn’t there another famous SOE agent with a similar moniker? Maybe you’re thinking of F.F.E. Yeo-Thomas, also known as “The White Rabbit.” 

Well, there’s little evidence the two “White Ones” ever met…

Nancy Wake was more than just a master of disguise and a fearless leader—she was a woman of resilience and courage, with roots as diverse as her accomplishments. Did you know she had Māori ancestry? Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, Wake carried with her a mix of cultures that fueled her defiant spirit. From her early years, she had a strong sense of justice, which later drove her to become one of the most wanted women by the Nazis.

In the early days of World War II, Nancy Wake and her French industrialist husband, Henri Fiocca, lived in Marseille, where they were part of the French Resistance. Nancy played a vital role in the Pat O’Leary Line, an escape network that helped downed Allied soldiers and prisoners of war flee occupied France. She risked her life multiple times, assisting in the smuggling of soldiers across the Pyrenees to Spain, and soon became the Gestapo’s top target. 

After she had to flee France herself in 1943, her husband Henri stayed behind to continue their resistance work, but tragically, he was captured and killed by the Nazis, a devastating blow for Nancy that she would not learn about until after the war.

Her most famous adventure began when she was parachuted into France in April 1944 as part of the Special Operations Executive (SOE). She landed in a tree and, ever quick-witted, responded to local Maquis leader Henri Tardivat’s quip about her appearance by telling him to “cut out the French crap and get me out of this tree!” That sharp humor and steely demeanor were trademarks of Nancy Wake, whose role was to organize the Resistance fighters and help prepare for D-Day by leading guerrilla operations against the Nazis.

As a resistance leader, Nancy Wake was responsible for everything from coordinating arms drops to leading attacks on German installations. She also recruited and trained thousands of Maquis fighters in the Auvergne region. Her leadership wasn’t just tactical—it was personal. Her men knew her as both hard and fair, and when a German female spy was found among their ranks, Nancy gave the order for her execution, displaying the harsh realities of war.

One of the most famous stories about Nancy is whether she killed a German soldier with her bare hands. The story goes that during a raid on a German factory, a sentry was about to raise the alarm when Nancy, trained in hand-to-hand combat, used a judo chop to kill him. Whether this happened exactly as told continues to remain a subject of debate, with some historians suggesting it may have been a part of the legend that grew around her. But as Nancy herself put it, she was “quite surprised that it worked!”

In the field, Nancy operated under the codename “Hélène” and led some of the most daring operations of the war. One of her greatest feats was a 500-kilometer round trip by bicycle through enemy territory to deliver critical codes for the SOE—a journey she completed in just 72 hours. This sheer act of endurance is one of many reasons why she is remembered as one of the most fearless women of the war.

After the war, Nancy Wake was showered with medals for her bravery, including the George Medal from the UK, the Croix de Guerre from France, and the Medal of Freedom from the United States. Yet, despite her heroism, she was never awarded a medal by her home country, Australia, which she refused to accept later in life, declaring she would never take a medal from them after their neglect.

Nancy Wake’s story didn’t end with the war. She lived a full and adventurous life, writing her autobiography and becoming involved in politics, although she never won an election. Her impact, however, went far beyond politics—her courage, strength, and indomitable spirit left a mark on history, and her legacy continues to inspire. 

Somewhere in the coming years I will write The Ace of Spunk, Codename Hélène and honor Nancy Wake with my own dual-timeline story about her. For now, head on over to join my Reader Group on Facebook for a pop-quiz on #MysteryMonday about The White Mouse and partake in the other activities. You can find the Hannah Byron Reader Group on Facebook here.

🎉 The Color Of Courage is Live 🎉

The day has finally come! The Color of Courage, the first book in my Timeless Agents series, is officially live. This project has been a true labor of love, and with - so far - positive feedback from my advanced reader team, I’m hopeful Lise's and Sil's stories will resonate with you, too.

Some stories grip your heart and won’t let go. For me, that’s the Timeless Agents series—a tribute to the extraordinary women of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) Section France. I’m committed to telling the stories of 39 unsung heroines who risked everything behind enemy lines during WWII. This is more than a writing project—it's my life’s work, a personal mission to honor their courage and their wit. So, yes, the Timeless Agents series could well turn out to be my magnum opus. But why?

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A Personal Connection to History
As a French-born Brit with parents who lived through the war, I’ve always felt the pull of those untold stories. The women of the SOE weren’t soldiers; they were ordinary women called to do extraordinary things—operating in the shadows with courage and cunning. That mystery, that resilience, resonates deeply with me.

The Allure of Female Heroism
My fascination with strong women comes from my own family. My grandmother, a woman who fought for her daughters’ education despite societal limits, inspired me to spotlight the fierce, independent women in history. The SOE agents broke barriers and shattered glass ceilings—exactly the kind of heroines I want to celebrate.

Resilience in the Face of Loss
This mission is personal for me in another way too. My family has known loss, from war to illness, for four generations. When I lost my daughter to cancer in 2014, I came to understand resilience at a whole new level. The courage these women showed during the war mirrors the strength I’ve seen—and lived—in my own life. That’s why their stories must be told.

Why These Stories Matter
Not all the SOE agents are household names, but each one deserves to be. That’s why I’m starting with the lesser-known women, the ones history overlooked. Their sacrifices are no less important, and I’m determined to give them the spotlight they’ve long deserved.

My Magnum Opus
If I’m lucky, I’ll finish this series at 81. It’s a daunting task, but one I’m ready to embrace. These women’s stories need to be told, and as long as I can write, I will. This is my mission, my magnum opus, and I can’t wait for you to join me on this journey.

The Color of Courage, the first book in the Timeless Agents series about Lise de Baissac, is now available.

Order it on Amazon

I’m Not a Spy! Understanding the True Role of SOE Agents

As I'm writing my new series, I’ve realized something important about the brave men and women of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during WWII. Everywhere I look—book titles, documentaries, movies, even titles by renowned historians—I see the word "spy" being used.

"Spy" is such a catchy, almost romantic term, and believe me, I would have loved to use it. But here’s the thing: the agents themselves never saw it that way. To them, "spy" was a dirty word, often tied to the betrayal of one's country, while they were fiercely patriotic.

Yes, the SOE agents gathered intelligence, but that was just one of their many jobs. They were so much more—they organized supply lines, aided the French Resistance, and carried out sabotage missions, all to prepare for D-Day.

With this in mind, I decided to change the title of my series from Timeless Spies to Timeless Agents. While you, my readers, might see "spy" being used everywhere, I want to make sure I honor the legacy of these legends. The way they really saw themselves.

So, in my work they will only be called SECRET AGENTS.

If all goes well, the Timeless Agents series will ultimately honor all 39 female secret agents of Section France.

One week now until the first book, The Color of Courage, goes live. Oh, it's so exciting.

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Part of my library on SOE

Here's an early 5-star review from one of my ARC team members:
"I’ve read all of Hannah’s books and enjoy the way that she mixes fact and fiction. This particular book tells the story of one of the bravest SOE agents intertwined with a modern day romance. This series will bring the actions of Resistance fighters to a brand new audience." ~ Fiona

If you haven't preordered The Color of Courage yet, click the link! 👇😊

Lise: Tomboy to City Lady (#4)

A tiny bonus chapter based on and inspired by “The Color of Courage.” A first chance to get to know the characters and the new dual timeline series, “Timeless Agents.”

Lise: Tomboy to City Lady

Curepipe, Mauritius, July 1918

The afternoon sun blazed over the endless rows of sugarcane, casting golden hues across the green fields. In the distance, the rocky peak of Pieter Both Mountain loomed lazily, a silent guardian over the island. A warm breeze, carrying the faint scent of salt from the Indian Ocean, rustled the sugarcane like whispered secrets, stirring the dry leaves.

Lise Boucherville de Baissac, her heart pounding in sync with her bare feet on the soft, brown earth, raced across the fields with her makeshift parachute fluttering behind her. Sixteen years old, with her brothers’ laughter echoing behind her, she ran faster, relishing the freedom, knowing they could never catch up.

Her lungs filled with the sweet air as she sped toward Maison des Palmes, the family estate. Its red roof stretched long and low, while the whitewashed walls rose above the immaculate gardens like a sentinel watching over the land. The wraparound verandas gleamed in the sun, the palm trees lining the driveway swayed gently, their tranquility in contrast to Lise’s wild exuberance. She ducked low, trying to avoid being seen from the front of the house, where her mother was undoubtedly holding court with the servants.

Lise slipped through the back door, which creaked slightly as she entered. Her dark-blonde hair, once neatly tied in a ponytail, now hung loose and tousled from her makeshift parachute jump. She cringed as she looked down at her dungarees, torn at the knee, dirt smeared across the fabric. Quickly, she tugged at the tear, hoping to minimize the damage. If Maman found out...

Tiptoeing into the hallway, her only goal was to sneak upstairs, change into something clean, and fix her hair and hands before the inevitable teatime lecture. But just as her mud-streaked hand reached the banister, the dreaded voice rang out from the parlor, sharp and unmistakable.

“Lise! Come here at once!”

She froze.

I need to work on my stealth techniques, she thought wryly.

Her mother appeared in the doorway, her expression shifting from restrained frustration to sheer horror as her eyes fell on Lise’s disheveled state. The contrast between them could not have been starker. Both shared the same petite frame, clear blue eyes, creamy skin, and thick dark-blonde hair, but that was where the similarities ended. Marie Louise stood poised as ever, her mauve afternoon dress immaculate, her hair coiled in perfect waves. She was the very picture of French elegance and propriety, every inch the refined lady she expected Lise to become.

“Mon Dieu.” Her mother reached for her lace handkerchief, delicately dabbed in lavender water.

Please don’t faint, Lise silently prayed. There’s nothing here that can’t be fixed.

She forced a smile, hoping for leniency, but it wasn’t to be. Her mother’s eyes had that heavy, droopy look, and her knuckles whitened as they gripped the sliver of lace.

“Maman—” Lise began to plead.

“Tais-toi! Don’t speak!” A single long, white finger shot into the air. “What in Heaven’s name have you been doing? Your clothes are torn, you look like you’ve rolled in the mud, and—what is that thing on your back?”

Before Lise could answer, her brothers dashed in, looking just as bedraggled. They received only a curt, “Be good boys and go wash for tea, mes garçons,” from Marie Louise, her stern gaze snapping back to her daughter.

Lise bit her lip. It was so unfair to be a girl.

“You simply cannot continue like this.” Her mother’s voice carried that familiar note of lamentation, one that Lise always resisted. She resisted any sign of weakness, especially in emotion. But her mother was just getting started. “Running wild, tearing your clothes like a common girl! How am I to make you into a lady if you refuse to act like one?”

“I was just with Jean and Claude,” Lise muttered, eyes downcast. “We were... parachute jumping.”

“Parachute jumping?” Her mother’s hand flew to her nose, dabbing at it with the lace handkerchief. “What on earth do you mean, para—”

“Like this.” Lise climbed a few steps of the grand staircase and, with a grin, billowed out the silk contraption on her back. She leapt from halfway up, landing squarely at her mother’s feet.

“That’s it!” her mother squeaked, regaining composure. “As soon as that wretched war in Europe ends, we’re going to Paris. Tout de suite!”

Lise’s head snapped up. “Paris?”

“Yes, Paris.” Marie Louise’s voice regained its strength as she spoke, each word as final as a locked door. “Mauritius has made you far too... untamed. You need refinement, culture. You need to become a lady, not a wild child playing in the dirt. I will not allow you to throw away your future. It may be too late already, but Mon Dieu, I will try.”

Lise’s heart sank deeper than the tear in her dungarees. She loved Maison des Palmes—the fields, the sea, the freedom—with all the fierceness of her loving heart. Paris was her mother’s dream, not hers. But in her mother’s determined gaze, there was no room for argument. She could only hope the Great War dragged on forever—though, in her kind heart, she knew she didn’t wish that on anyone.

“Yes, Maman,” Lise murmured, but inside, the wild spirit that had raced through the fields would not be tamed. Maybe her mother could teach her to be a lady, but no one could teach her how to stop being herself.

Preorder your copy today and be a part of Sil’s story as she paints her future from Lise’s past, one courageous stroke at a time.

Or find me on Amazon!

Sil’s Canvas for the Future (#3)

A tiny bonus chapter based on and inspired by “The Color of Courage.” A first chance to get to know the characters and the new dual timeline series, “Timeless Agents.”

The Color of Courage: Sil’s Canvas for the Future

Bristol, June 2003

Nineteen-year-old Sil Anderson sat cross-legged on the sun-dappled grass of the schoolyard, her rainbow-colored curls tucked under a Nike cap. Her jeans were splattered with paint, the result of countless hours spent in the school’s art studio, which had become her second home. Flecks of vibrant color had found a permanent place under her fingernails, as if the roots of her creativity that embedded themselves into her very being. 

Across from her sat Ms Evelyn Carter, her art teacher and mentor, her legs tucked neatly to one side. She wore a white blouse and navy linen trousers, a perfect blend of stylish and bohemian. The thirty-year-old professor had a kind, open face that radiated warmth and  a sincere passion for unlocking potential in her students.

They shared a small picnic, the remnants of sandwiches and a thermos of tea between them, as the warm June breeze carried the scent of freshly cut grass and the chatter of other students enjoying their break on the lawn.

“You’ve made incredible progress,” Evelyn said, pouring another cup of tea and handing it to Sil. “I’m so proud of how far you’ve come since you came back to school. You have real talent, you know. A talent I seldom see.”

Sil took a sip of the tea, savoring its comforting warmth. Inside she shuddered. It had been a long journey since going astray at age thirteen, but it was true. She’d worked hard and not relapsed back into drugs or skipping classes. Much of that was thanks to Ms Carter. Sil knew her teacher’s unwavering guidance and support had saved her.

“Thank you,” Sil said, a lopsided grin lighting up her face. “That’s a great compliment from someone who’s had exhibitions all over Britain.”

“You can have that too, Sil. I think you’re ready for the next step.”

“The next step? What do you have in mind?” Sil asked, her heart thudding at the prospect of venturing beyond the routine she’d finally grown accustomed to. 

Evelyn leaned back on her hands, looking thoughtful. “I am thinking of the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Marseille. That prestigious college has a scholarship program. I spent a year there on a scholarship myself, and I can tell you it was a life-changing experience for me. I think you should apply.”

Sil’s eyes grew wide at the mention of the possibility of attending such a renowned art school abroad. 

“Marseille? That sounds amazing, but... I don’t know, Evelyn. I mean, why would they take me? My speciality is graffiti, which is only a small part of modern art. And how would I pay for it? And is the course in French?”

Evelyn laughed, a musical sound that seemed to lighten the air around them. “That’s the Sil Anderson I love. Full of questions, full of savoir vivre.”

“Well, answer at least one of my questions, please. Why would they take a graffiti artist if they can take anyone from the wide range of modern techniques?”

 “Because these teachers at the École aren’t fools. They recognize talent when they see it and they’re all for diversifying. I think you’d stand out and that’s what they want. The school looks for originality and passion, and you have both in spades.”

“I could try, if you help me,” Sil pondered, her mind a whirl of possibilities.

“Just look up the school online first, see their requirements, mull it over in your head and then we can talk again,” Evelyn suggested as she collected their picnic things.

Sil bit her lip, excitement mingling with apprehension. The pull from the graffiti scene in Bristol and her complicated relationship with Felix Quirk still tugged at her, but the opportunity to break free from it all and study at a real art school was too tempting to ignore.

Sil rose to her 5’4’’ frame, readjusting the cap on her curls, suddenly unsure. Evelyn seemed to sense the turmoil that tugged at her young student. 

“Think about what your grandfather would say to you now. He always believed in your ability to walk your own path, didn’t he?”

Sil nodded, memories of her grandfather’s encouraging words flooding back. He’d taught her to face the world head-on, and now she had a chance to honor that lesson.

“Alright,” Sil said, determination rising in her voice like a tide. “I’ll just go for it. I trust your opinion. I’m going to apply for the scholarship.”

Evelyn beamed, clapping her hands together. “That’s the spirit! We’ll work on your portfolio together, and I’ll help you with the application. You’ve got this, Sil.”

Join Sil Anderson on her journey in "The Color of Courage", where the past and present intertwine in a tale of resilience, love, and the enduring spirit of those who dare to dream.

Preorder your copy today and be a part of Sil’s story as she paints her future from Lise’s past, one courageous stroke at a time.

Or find me on Amazon!

Living in the house of a WW2 legend (#2)

A tiny bonus chapter based on and inspired by “The Color of Courage.” A first chance to get to know the characters and the new dual timeline series, “Timeless Agents.”

The Color of Courage: Sil’s Diary Entry - Introducing Secret Agent Lise

Vieux Port, Marseille, August 2004

Dear Grandpa Jack,

I hope you’re up there enjoying a nice pint of ‘Skull Attack’ with your mates while watching over me. I don’t know where to start since I arrived in Marseille two weeks ago to attend the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Marseille. Can you imagine your little whippersnapper making the plunge and going abroad?

I love Marseille already, and I know you would too, with your fishery background. The Vieux Port, where I’m living, is bustling with life—fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling water, the scent of fresh seafood always in the salty sea air, and people from all walks of life filling the streets with chatter and laughter. It’s a beautiful chaos, and I can almost hear you chuckling, telling me to “embrace the mess, Silver, that’s where life happens.”

But Grandpa, it’s not just the city that has got me in its grips. I’ve hardly had time to explore it as I stumbled upon something extraordinary on the first day of my arrival. I found a suitcase filled with letters from a remarkable woman named Lise de Baissac. Can you imagine, I’m living in the house of a WW2 legend?

She was a courageous British secret agent during the war at the same time you landed on Gold Beach with the Welsh Fusiliers just a few miles away. If that isn’t coincidence!  While you scrambled up those steep Normandy cliffs fighting to liberate Europe, she was out there, close by, helping the Maquis obstruct the Nazis reaching you. Did you ever know about these secret agents who helped the Allies behind the lines? I can never ask you now.

Anyway, I’ve been so involved in reading Lise’s letters that I wanted to send you a letter as well. I wish you could have met Lise, Grandpa. Her bravery and cleverness remind me so much of you. It must be a generational thing. Today we’re much more occupied with our own survival to even think of going out there to defend our nation. At least, that’s how I feel it.

She wrote these post-war letters to her beau, Henri Villameur, an artist (yes, yes!) to tell him about the secret missions she undertook during the war. She wanted him to know the truth about her “illegal” actions, so he’d know what he was getting into before marrying her. You’d have loved that candid approach!

But I’m sure you’d also have loved her spirit and tenacity. She would’ve been a perfect addition to your Band of Welsh Brothers, as you called them. She was the embodiment of your life motto, “Just one foot in front of the other, Silver, and you’d eventually get there.” Or in Lise’s words, “I needed cold-blooded efficiency for long weary months more than heroism”.

When I looked her up on the Internet, I found an interview with her from a couple of years back. She passed away in this house this spring, you see. Even in her nineties she still radiated that cool courage you so admired in people. Seeing her, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection, not just to Lise, but to you, too. The indomitable spirit that refuses to back down in the face of tyranny. Or as you taught me, “Courage doesn’t mean you aren’t afraid, Silver. It means you keep going despite the fear.”

Finding Lise’s letters feels like a gift, as if you’re still guiding me from somewhere. I truly hope some form of bravery also runs in my blood, that you passed down a bit of your courage to me. I don’t know what it will be yet, but I’m going to honor Lise in some way, and thus honor you as well through my work as an artist.

I miss you every day, Grandpa, but these letters make me feel closer to you, and I’m on my own path now. Finally! Thank you for teaching me to see the true spirit of this world, to find the stories that connect us through time and space. I’ll color them with courage.

With all my love,

Sil(ver)

Preorder your copy today and be a part of Sil’s story as she paints her future from Lise’s past, one courageous stroke at a time.

The Soldier’s Granddaughter (#1)

A tiny bonus chapter based on and inspired by “The Color of Courage.” A first chance to get to know the characters and the new dual timeline series, “Timeless Agents.”

The Color of Courage: Sil and Grandpa Jack

Marseille, August 2004

Sil Anderson’s fingers traced the yellowing pages of Lise’s letter, her mind drifting to another time, another story. The scent of old paper transported her back to a cherished afternoon in her grandfather’s whitewashed cottage on the Welsh coast. The air was filled with the salty tang of the sea and the distant cry of gulls.

“Been a pest again, Silver?” Grandpa Jack’s voice rumbled like an old engine, warm and teasing.

“No, I haven’t, Grandpa Jack.”

He fixed his piercing blue eyes on her, her eight-year-old face still red and blotched from angry crying. Grandpa Jack, with his face full of white hairs sprouting from his ears, nose, and scalp, looked like a polar bear. He raised one of his sturdy eyebrows to coax a laugh from her, but Sil was in no mood to be cheered up.

“Your Mum and Dad only drop you off here when you’ve been ‘too much.’”

Sil almost laughed. Grandpa could imitate Ghislaine, her stepmother, so well with that high-pitched, hysterical voice of hers.

“I swear, Grandpa, I didn’t steal that can of paint for my graffiti. It was given to me, but Benny had stolen it, and of course, the shopkeeper accused me. Just because he hates me. Everyone hates me.”

“Everyone?” The other eyebrow went up.

“Perhaps not you. But you are old, and you can’t defend me.”

“I.Am.Old?” Her grandfather rose to his massive 6’2”, now bent and rheumatic but still towering. “You know the remedy for little whippersnappers like Silver Anderson who feel sorry for themselves, don’t you?”

“Oh, Grandpa, I don’t want to go for a stiff walk. I’d rather sit here and mope.”

But Grandpa had already taken his walking stick from the rack and plopped his faded sailor hat on his white head.

“Out with you. Five miles and an ice cream at Betty’s.”

“But do you believe me, Grandpa? That I’m not a thief?”

“You’re a thief alright, you half-pint. You’ve stolen my heart since the day you were born.”

He ruffled his hands through her dark curls, and out they went, hand in hand.

Sil closed her eyes, transported back to Pembrokeshire on that sunny August day. She’d been so confused by the world. Even then. But Grandpa Jack, with his war stories and unorthodox pedagogical methods, had been her rock in the quicksand of her life.

It had all gone downhill after he died.

She sighed, the letter slipping from her fingers. How she missed him. His past, especially as one of the Welsh Fusiliers landing on D-Day and trekking through half of Western-Europe to ‘send the Huns packing’, was filled with lessons she wished she’d paid more attention to. 

There had been a message there. A story about a narrow escape during a night raid, behind enemy lines, separated from his unit. Alone, with nothing but his wits and a map, he’d navigated through enemy territory, avoiding patrols and making it back to safety. 

At the time, she’d been more interested in the promised ice cream. Chocolate and vanilla. Her favorite scoops.

Now, she realized he’d tried to tell her a story of resilience and resourcefulness—qualities he’d instilled in her.

And here were Lise de Baissac’s letters. Another brave hero from World War II.

“Oh, Grandpa Jack. I will listen now!”

Lise’s letters were a gateway into Grandpa’s world too, a time when courage and determination were all that stood between victory and defeat.

In this new chapter of her life, Sil embraced the lessons of the past, ready to face the challenges ahead with the same courage that had defined Lise and her grandfather.

As she prepared to step into the vibrant streets of Marseille once more, Sil knew her own journey as a street artist was just beginning…

Join Sil Anderson on her journey in "The Color of Courage", where the past and present intertwine in a tale of resilience, love, and the enduring spirit of those who dare to dream.

Preorder your copy today and be a part of Sil’s story as she paints her future from Lise’s past, one courageous stroke at a time.

📣New release📘The Resistance Girls Revisited

I am thrilled to announce that The Resistance Girls Revisited is finally live and available in ebook, paperback, and on Kindle Unlimited. This book marks the great finale of The Resistance Girl Series, a writing journey that’s been four and a half years in the making.

Today is especially poignant for me and my family, as I publish book 8 in the series on what would have been my daughter's 40th birthday. It is a day filled with both smiles and tears, as we lost her ten years ago, as I told you last week.

I truly hope you enjoy this final installment in The Resistance Girl Series. I put my heart and soul into it.

Don’t forget to leave a review!

Happy reading,
Hannah Byron

Current running discount still available up to and including 17 Juli 2024!

This is not the end

The Resistance Girls Revisited and what’s next?
I often compare the work of an author with that of a fashion designer. By the time a book comes out, I’m already fully immersed in writing the next one, and it’s almost hard to “sell” the upcoming book because new characters are occupying my every day.

But I wouldn’t pay enough tribute to The Resistance Girl Series if I didn’t spend some time reflecting on the finale of the series and the period of four-and-a-half years I dedicated to writing this 8-book series.

The first book “In Picardy’s Fields” came out in September 2020, but I started writing this story at the end of 2019. Since then, I’ve written every day (1650 days) until the completion of this first series (960,000 words). Initially I planned to write a trilogy and finish it in 2021. It went somewhat out of hand. ☺

By book 3, the series began to find an audience and as there was not yet a new series brewing in my head, I decided I’d have another girl attending the finishing school Le Manoir in Switzerland. And then another… and yet another.

I could have gone on and on, but something happened when I was writing The Norwegian Assassin. My research kept circling me back to SOE (Secret Operations Executive), and I made Esther, the heroine of book 4, a secret agent trained by SOE, followed by book 5 The Highland Raven. Sable was also an SOE agent.

Only book 6 had a different topic. Based in Holland, I wanted to write a book about the Dutch Resistance. But the final resistance girl, Anna in The London Spymaker is a fictionalized retelling of Vera Adkins, the SOE spymistress at the Baker Street HQ in London.

It seemed my writing fate was sealed.

Two years ago, I went on a research trip to Beaulieu in Hampshire, England, with my eldest son. Beaulieu was the SOE “finishing school” for secret agents during WW2. At that moment, I knew I would transition from the posh ladies’ finishing school in Switzerland to the die-hard spy school in Britain, and my next series would revolve around the 39 women who became secret agents in France.

I was born in France, but I’m of British lineage, and these two countries, these two nationalities, determine who I really am. And World War 2 was the catalyst that led to my birth as my uncle landed on the beaches of Normandy in 1944 and my parents met each other through this uncle in 1949.

The Resistance Girl Series was about fictive resistance women. Timeless Spies will be about real resistance women. The research material, the setting, the deeply emotional and heart-breaking female odysseys through the war will be the same, but the writing for me is different.

For the first time in my writing career, I’m portraying heroines who really lived, and it is my solemn task to bring them to life for you.

Today in 2024, none of these female agents is alive anymore, but the memories of their brave missions still linger. My tribute to the SOE women must be as profound as my admiration for them is. I want this tribute to stand the test of time. Let them not be forgotten, these shadow fighters for the freedom of Europe.

But what about The Resistance Girls Revisited? Why did I write this sequel to the series? This is a book specifically written for the fans. It offers you one last glimpse at the individual stories of your beloved heroines who sprouted from my imagination. As “the girls” travel to the place where they met for the first time, the finishing school Le Manoir on Lake Geneva in Lausanne, we wave one final farewell to them.

Now we let Agnès, Madeleine, Lili, Océane, Esther, Sable, Edda and Anna go to raise their families and wish them a long and happy life. We hope for them that the war in which they fought so hard for liberation will slowly become a distant memory no longer haunting them.

And we welcome women like Lise, Eileen and Diana and the 36 others in the Timeless Spies Series.

I write about war because I deeply, deeply care about peace. Lest we forget.

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On a personal note..

Why I write what I write
The first slogan I used on my writer's website was: “I have been writing since I could hold a pen and I will write till my dying day.” Writing has always been more than a passion; it has been a lifeline.

So how come, you may think, it took me over fifty-five years to become a published author and sixty-five years until I could call myself a full time author? The answer is simple: like so many of my fellow authors I held the deep conviction that my writing wasn’t good enough for publication.

Always an avid reader I could see the fallacy of my belief about my own work – as it was up to standard. But if there’s one common trait among authors, even the most-praised, bestselling authors, it is that our work ‘just isn’t good enough’. The impostor syndrome is rampant among all creatives, and so also among authors.

Yet, the other side of the coin is as resilient. I can’t live without writing. Let me tell you how I found out this truth about myself.

For decades I suppressed my longing to return to my first love, penning stories, as I went through life being an obedient citizen, doing the job, raising the kids, looking after an ageing mother, forcefully silencing the characters in my head that wanted to jump onto the page.

Later, later, later! I told myself, seeing the time ticking away and author friends climbing the charts.

And then on a spring morning in 2014 my life stopped. My heart broke and nothing made sense anymore. I lost my beloved daughter Joy at the age of 29 after her heroic fight against cancer.

In the midst of this unbearable pain, writing became my lifeline. Broken words on the page, tears, devastation, unbelief, horror and so much pain. Diary entries, shards of poems, deep, angry prayers to God to make it undone, to turn back time, to make me, my family, our lives whole again.

It didn’t happen. Another child, my second, became seriously ill with another form of cancer only three months later. He too walked along the narrow edge of death but escaped for a while. Still here, still…

Then three years later my sister passed, my mother passed. The dog, the cat. The 2010s for me were the decade of doom. Death was destroying the very fabric of my life.

And yet, through it all, the words were like small anchors. They told me I still existed. Somewhere deep inside there was still a well of words.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”. That’s how it felt to me. If I had to make peace with my God over the loss of my child and all my other losses, I had to write. Not about Joy, not about myself, but about the deep, scarred and scary emotions that make us human. That makes us carry on when we don’t want to carry on anymore. When all we can see is darkness and despair. To hang on to that one grain of fighting force and faith that still simmers within us.

Do you now understand why I write about Resistance women in WW2? They fought, they lost, they scrambled to their feet again, they found love and made peace with their fate. All my heroines will go through the darkness to the light, whether they survive or not. And thus, my own experience has found itself onto the pages of my novels. As one reader so poignantly said, “Your description of grief and love are so overwhelmingly profound.”

I cannot write otherwise.

On 16 July 2024 the final book in The Resistance Girl Series sees the light. Forty years earlier, on 16 July 1984, I gave birth to a perfect little girl named Joy Sareeta. The sun rose in the summer sky and the larks sang at the top of their lungs. I cried with happiness on the day I became a mother.

On 16 July 2024 I’ll be thankful for the words on the page and the books I published. I will write till my dying day.

Hannah Byron

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