Review: The Golden Doves by Martha Hall Kelly

If you like to read historical fiction set in WWII, you should check out The Golden Doves. The story follows Josie and Arlette, two women who met in the French Resistance during WWII and survived the end of the war despite imprisonment in Ravensbruck, the women-only concentration camp. The story finds Josie and Arlette in 1952, still trying to heal from their experience. Josie finds herself on a new mission hunting down a notorious Dr. Snow, and hers and Arlette’s paths cross again.

I found the story interesting and focused on a bit of a different part of the war than I have usually read. Although the hunt for Nazi war criminals is similar to the story in The Huntress by Kate Quinn, it was different though and emphasized the problematic aspects of the Cold War race for scientific development. I found the characters and story compelling, but I did find it a bit long. The length caused some parts to feel very slow, especially when some portions were repetitive through the dual perspectives, and made the reveal feel rushed. I think had the story been a bit tighter, it would have made quite a thrilling read throughout. 

The Golden Doves is the perfect read for serious historical fiction reader, as it requires a bit of a commitment. However, if you take the time, the characters and story won’t disappoint. 

Thank you to Penguin Reads for the opportunity to read this novel. This review reflects my honest opinion.