With Voices on the Wind, Helena P. Schrader offers another exciting work of World War II historical fiction.

Schrader’s novel is the first installment of a two-part series that examines the German siege of Malta in the first half of 1942. The author follows multiple characters as the British struggle to hold the island, a strategic location for the allies. They include Ned Nettleton, a torpedo bomber pilot; Candice Weld, an intelligence officer; and Robin Priestman, a senior officer.
These characters’ lives become increasingly entwined as they struggle to defend the island not only from the Germans but also from British bureaucratic ineptitude.

Schrader seamlessly weaves historical events into the narrative through the eyes of her protagonists. Readers will particularly enjoy Weld’s critical role in breaking the Germans’ Enigma intelligence code to give the British an edge against the German onslaught. Her character reveals not only how this critical intelligence breakthrough affected the siege but also the crucial role that women played in British intelligence during the war.

Schrader’s keenly drawn characters propel the narrative forward. For instance, Priestman, whom Schrader fans will recognize from her previous works, experiences frustration with British military leadership as soon as he arrives at his post. His drive to navigate these challenges and support his officers illuminates both his good nature and the obstacles the British faced to hold the island.

While remaining in the third person, Schrader’s story seamlessly shifts perspectives, quickly and smoothly transporting readers from bombing raids to aerial dogfights to the intricacies of translating German intelligence.

As in her earlier works, the author’s research is impeccable. She provides maps and appendices, including a timeline of significant events and a bibliography, providing a strong historical foundation.

Voices in the Wind will delight fans of Schrader’s work and could broaden her appeal as a master of WWII historical fiction.