Tag: ww1

A dramatic page-turner that captures the devastating toll of war and the impact of women’s struggles and solidarity, through the lens of a little-known slice of history.

In 1917, Russia is losing the war with Germany, soldiers are deserting in droves, and food shortages on the home front are pushing people to the brink of revolution. Seventeen-year-old Katya is politically conflicted, but she wants Russia to win the war. Working at a munitions factory seems like the most she can do to serve her country―until the government begins recruiting an all-female army battalion. Inspired, Katya enlists. Training with other brave women, she finds camaraderie and a deep sense of purpose. But when the women’s battalion heads to the front, Katya has to confront the horrifying realities of war. Faced with heartbreak and disillusionment, she must reevaluate her commitment and decide where she stands.

– Goodreads

I’m gonna be honest with you guys. I requested this book for the cover. It is creepy as hell and I kind of love it!

I was excited to see this was a historical fiction. I’ve read a lot of historical fiction based in Paris during WW2. A LOT. I have never read one based in Russia during WW1, so that was a very pleasant surprise.

Katya’s father has been in the Russian military forever. He aligns with the Tsars and supports them. Katya does, too. Then one day she gets pulled to a rally with her friend. Katya ends up joining an all-woman regiment for a war she’s not even sure she agrees with.

What I loved most about this book were the female friendships. The girls in the battalion had to stick together to survive – literally. Not all of them make it out of the war alive, and you can tell how much it pains the ones who do. They have become closer than sisters and always have each other’s backs.

I also loved that it was set in Russia during WW1! Like I said, I have never read a book with that setting. I loved learning about the all-female battalion and it led me to research more!

The only thing that kept me from a 4 star rating was the pacing. Parts of it were packed with action, and parts seemed to move super slowly. It’s not a long book, so I wasn’t expecting parts quite that slow.

Overall, this was an enjoyable book that taught me things! I love books that make me thing and encourage me to learn more!

Have you read Open Fire? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below.

Until next time…