Book Description
Born Nigerian royalty, Princess Adenrele Ademola trained as a nurse at Guy’s Hospital in London and stepped up to serve the people of Britain when war broke out – facing both the devastation of the Blitz and the prejudice of some of the people she was trying to help.
80 years later, Ade’s great-niece Yemi arrives in London clutching the Princess’s precious diaries and longs to uncover the mysteries they hold…
A richly-detailed, compelling historical novel shining a light on a hidden voice of WW2 and one woman’s courageous contribution to Britain
Book Review
Every so often, I come across a novel that not only draws me in with its compelling narrative but also resonates on a deeper level because of its setting and themes. A Nurse’s Tale by Ola Awonubi is one of those book. Set in the same area as my upcoming novel, Wherever You Will Go, I was eager to immerse myself in this story, and I wasn’t disappointed.
A Nurse’s Tale is a beautifully crafted novel that follows the life of a young nurse navigating the challenges of her profession against the backdrop of London during the second World War. Awonubi paints a vivid picture of the period, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of an immigrant woman carving out a place for herself in a new world. Told in two time lines, the novel explores themes of resilience, love, and the pursuit of dreams, making it a deeply moving read.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is the protagonist, Ade. She is a character full of warmth and determination, someone who faces adversity with grace and unwavering resolve. Awonubi’s writing allows readers to step into her shoes, experiencing the highs and lows of her journey, from the bustling hospital wards to the quiet moments of reflection in a foreign land that is slowly becoming home.
While the story of the second time line protagonist, Yemi, is just as good a read, I found myself looking forward to coming back to Ade's pages which are told in the form of a diary.
I was particularly drawn to the way Awonubi captures the nuances of migration and identity—topics that are also central to Wherever You Will Go. The depiction of life in London, with its mix of opportunity and hardship, feels authentic. This leads me to think that the historical details were meticulously researched, which is always refreshing in an historical fiction novel.
Beyond its historical significance, A Nurse’s Tale is a story about humanity—the kindness of strangers, the bonds of friendship, and the courage to keep moving forward despite the odds. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many to build a better life, and it does so with heart and honesty.
For anyone who enjoys historical fiction that is both enlightening and emotionally gripping, A Nurse’s Tale is a must-read. Awonubi has written a novel that lingers long after the final page, and I highly recommend it to those who love stories of strength, perseverance, and hope.
Have you read A Nurse’s Tale? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram to continue the conversation.
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