Nurses have long been the backbone of healthcare, playing a vital role in saving lives and alleviating suffering.
Historical fiction books about nurses allow us to step back in time and experience the evolution of nursing alongside the fascinating stories of these dedicated women.
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In November 1941, Eva Cassidy, a newly enlisted Army Corps nurse, sails to Hawaii aboard the SS Lurline.
There, she encounters Lt. Clark Spencer and witnesses the stunning attack on Pearl Harbor. Amidst the chaos, Eva and her fellow nurses bravely care for the wounded, while Eva grapples with personal challenges and tough decisions about trust and protection.
Superintendent of Nurses Julia Stimson faces the daunting task of recruiting nurses to relieve battle-worn British forces in Rouen, France, during World War I.
Arriving at British Base Hospital 12, they encounter primitive conditions and overwhelming challenges. Julia must lead amidst chaos and resistance from military doctors.
When a mysterious illness threatens lives, Julia faces a difficult choice: risk her career to save others or watch them perish.
In November 1941, Army nurse Annie Fox arrives at Hickam Field in Honolulu.
When the Japanese attack Pearl Harbor on December 7, Annie leads her nurses in saving lives amidst chaos.
Despite prejudice and injustice, Annie confronts the complexities of American bravery and resilience as she fights to reconcile her love for her country with its flaws.
This novel follows the journey of two sisters, Ruth and Elise Duncan, who volunteer at the front during World War I.
Ruth becomes a nurse, while Elise serves as a driver. Stationed in Ypres, Belgium, they confront the brutal realities of war and find unexpected independence.
Through resilience and sacrifice, they highlight the critical role of women during this tumultuous period in history.
Set in the Philippines in 1941, this novel follows the friendship of U.S. Navy nurse Eleanor Lindstrom, U.S. Army nurse Penny Franklin, and Filipina nurse Lita Capel.
They initially find solace in Manila but are soon thrust into the chaos of war. As they serve under combat conditions and endure captivity as the first female prisoners of World War II, they lean on each other for support and hope.
The Pull of the Stars is set in Dublin, 1918. Nurse Julia Power tends to expectant mothers afflicted with a mysterious flu in an understaffed hospital.
Doctor Kathleen Lynn and volunteer Bridie Sweeney join her, bringing new perspectives and support.
Over three intense days, these women bond, care for patients, and bring hope amidst the chaos of war and disease.
In New York City, 1926, Nurse Althea Anderson is deeply affected by the loss of premature babies at Bellevue Hospital.
Upon learning about the success of incubators at Luna Park, Coney Island, she sees it as a miraculous opportunity. However, the hospital’s doctors reject this unconventional treatment, forcing Althea to make a life-changing decision for the sake of a baby’s life.
Twenty-five years later, Stella Wright faces personal turmoil after her mother’s death, quitting her job and struggling in her marriage.
Bellevue, founded on Florence Nightingale’s nursing principles, revolutionises the perception of nurses, valuing discipline, intellect, and moral character.
Una, initially hesitant among her prim classmates and endless doctor commands, finds her street-smart background prepares her for the hospital’s challenges.
As she gains confidence and friendships, Una’s suspicions about a patient’s death put her in danger, forcing her to decide between self-preservation and exposing her identity to save others.
