Shining Through

Shining Through is a World War II novel centered on Linda Voss, a German-speaking secretary in 1940s New York who becomes entangled in the world of wartime intelligence. Her linguistic skills and sharp mind lead her from a law firm to work with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the predecessor of the CIA. Linda's personal life intersects with international espionage when she begins working closely with Edward Leland, a high-ranking intelligence officer who coordinates information from German refugees in America. Her role expands from translation to deeper involvement with intelligence operations as the United States enters World War II. The narrative combines elements of romance, espionage, and historical fiction against the backdrop of wartime America and Europe. Isaacs presents the realities of civilian life during World War II while exploring the shadowy world of international intelligence operations. Through Linda's journey, the novel examines themes of identity, loyalty, and the unexpected ways ordinary people can become crucial players in extraordinary circumstances. The story illuminates the often-overlooked role of women in wartime intelligence operations.

Readers describe this as an entertaining spy thriller with romance elements, though many note it doesn't take itself too seriously. The blend of humor with World War II drama stands out as unique. Readers appreciate: - The protagonist's witty narration and sharp humor - Historical details about 1940s New York and wartime Berlin - Romance subplot that doesn't overshadow the espionage - Strong female lead who grows throughout the story Common criticisms: - Pacing issues in the first third - Some find the protagonist's voice too modern for the 1940s setting - Romance aspects feel predictable to some readers Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (240+ ratings) One reader noted: "Linda's voice makes this book - she's smart, funny, and real without being a superhero." Another wrote: "The start drags but once she gets to Berlin, you can't put it down."

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★ The Office of Strategic Services (OSS), featured prominently in the novel, was the real-life predecessor to the CIA and operated from 1942-1945, employing over 13,000 individuals during WWII. ★ The novel was adapted into a successful 1992 film starring Melanie Griffith and Michael Douglas, though it received mixed reviews for deviating from the book's grittier tone. ★ Author Susan Isaacs worked as a political speechwriter before becoming a novelist, bringing her understanding of professional politics and rhetoric to her writing. ★ German-speaking women were particularly valuable to Allied intelligence during WWII, with many serving as code breakers and translators - similar to the protagonist Linda Voss. ★ The novel's 1940s New York legal setting reflects a time when only 2.4% of lawyers in the United States were women, making Linda's position as a legal secretary a common career path for educated women of the era.