Review by Luyt30 -- Sandra Eden's War by Michael Low

[Luyt30]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Sandra Eden's War" by Michael Low.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” -Winston Churchill.

Lowe evokes admiration for the Special Operations Executive (SEO) agents that risked their lives to hasten the annihilation of the Nazi’s in the Second World War. Their bravery inspired the story of Sandra Eden, a British SEO sent to Normandy to disrupt the supplies and manoeuvres of the Nazis occupying France. She orchestrates operations with the French Resistance to plant bombs in strategic positions, bringing the Germans to a standstill at each step of their plans. In the inconspicuous little farmhouse of Patrice and Claudette, Sandra and her contact, Michel, put detailed plans together and ensure that the British provide enough equipment to them and the French Resistance.

Sandra quickly shows that she is a force to be reckoned with. It’s incredible to read a book with a powerful, female protagonist that doesn’t stand back for her male counterparts in the French Resistance. Even when met with some sexist remarks, Sandra rises above it and proves that she is an integral part of each operation (and that she does, in fact, know how to handle a bomb). Breaking glass ceilings and Gestapo railways all in one evening is no small task.

Sandra Eden’s War is edited exceptionally well, and an absolute joy to read. I give the book a score of 4 out of 4 because I found it wholesome and enlightening. Mike Low has an excellent command over the English language (and French and German, for that matter) and kept me intrigued, even through the technical jargon. I would have wanted Sandra and Michel’s relationship to develop further. The silent victories they shared over a glass of Calvados seemed special. Low shows us the human experience of war and all its complexities. It’s not all tactics and telegrams; there are so many emotions and opinions involved.

The book can be enjoyed by WW2 enthusiasts, history buffs and, honestly, anyone who loves a good story. Though it is chilling to read the book and realize that this was so many people’s reality, it’s inspiring as well. “It was a black day,” Low writes. With no experience of war or unrest, this book makes me thankful for those who had black days to ensure that my days are sunny. Sandra and her allies show us how so many people dedicated their lives to one resolute goal: freedom.

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Sandra Eden's War
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