There’s a good reason World War II fiction is such a popular book genre. The war was a classic case of good versus evil, with both heroic and haunting moments to read and write about.

World War II has inspired thousands of novels, which can make it difficult for readers who enjoy historical fiction to separate the wheat from the chaff. I’ve tried to do that in this curated WWII book list. Each of the novels received at least a 4.2 star Amazon rating from 250 or more customers.

There are some well-known books on this list as well some hidden gems, and I hope you’ll find some to add to your reading list just like I did.

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Please note that I’m trying something new for this book list. Usually when I include a book that I haven’t read on a list, I spend time rewriting the book summary provided on sources such as Amazon or GoodReads. Because I type with my eyes, this can take a long time, especially for longer lists. For this list of World War II novels, I asked ChatGPT to summarize the books I haven’t read. We’ll see how this goes.

So here’s a list of top-rated World War II novels, presented in no particular order:

1. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale is a blockbuster WWII novel, selling more than 4.5 million copies worldwide. The Nightingale looks at World War II from a woman’s perspective. French sisters Vianne and Isabelle are years apart and live very different lives. But the horrors of the German invasion of France impact them equally. One sister is forced to house a German officer in her home while the other joins the Resistance. They both face risks and are forced to make unthinkably hard decisions as they await the end of the occupation.

2. The Rose Code by Kate Quinn

“”The Rose Code” by Kate Quinn is a historical fiction novel set during World War II, following the lives of three women who work at Bletchley Park, a British codebreaking center. The story delves into their friendships, secrets, and the challenges they face while contributing to the war effort by deciphering German codes. The novel explores themes of friendship, love, sacrifice, and the vital role of codebreakers in shaping history.” (Source: ChatGPT) I like a good codebreaking story, and this bestseller earned a 4.6 star rating on Amazon.

3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

A modern classic. Here’s how ChatGPT summarized it: “”The Book Thief” is a novel by Markus Zusak set in Nazi Germany, narrated by Death. It follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl living with foster parents, who takes comfort in stealing books and sharing them with others, while grappling with the horrors of war and loss. The story highlights the power of words to provide comfort and connection in the midst of adversity.”

4. The Secret of Santa Vittoria by Robert Crichton

This is one of the older books on this list that is pure gold. The Secret of Santa Vittoria takes place in a small village in the mountains of Italy during WWII. It is a brilliant commentary about human nature, relying on deadpan and sometimes dark humor to cover topics like love, honor, power, community dynamics and prejudices. Robert Crichton cleverly weaves a parable that pits Italian peasants against German soldiers in a cat and mouse game involving the wine that serves as the lifeblood of the little village. (Source: Me)

To learn more, check out my The Secret of Santa Vittoria book review.

5. The Winds of War by Herman Wouk

This one is a classic. “”The Winds of War” is a historical novel by Herman Wouk that follows the experiences of the Henry family during World War II. The story revolves around naval officer Victor “Pug” Henry and his family members as they navigate the global conflict, portraying the impact of the war on their personal lives, relationships, and choices. The novel delves into various aspects of the war, including political intrigue, military strategy, and the human cost of the conflict.” (Source: ChatGPT)

6. The Invisible Woman: A WWII Novel by Erika Robuck

“”The Invisible Woman” by Erika Robuck is a historical novel set during World War II, highlighting the lesser-known contributions of women in the war effort. The story follows a female spy, whose bravery and intelligence play a crucial role in espionage operations. Robuck skillfully portrays the challenges and sacrifices women faced during this tumultuous period, shedding light on their remarkable but often hidden roles in the war.” (Source: ChatGPT)

7. The Lost Letter: A Novel by Jillian Cantor

“”The Lost Letter” by Jillian Cantor weaves together two timelines – one set in World War II Austria and the other in present-day Los Angeles. The novel follows the journey of a lost letter that connects a forbidden love story during the war with a woman’s quest to unravel its mystery in the present, highlighting the power of love, resilience, and the impact of history across generations. Through intricate storytelling, the book explores how a single letter can transcend time and impact lives.” (Source: ChatGPT)

8.  Lilac Girls: A Novel by Martha Hall Kelly

A recent bestseller. “”Lilac Girls: A Novel” by Martha Hall Kelly is a historical fiction that follows the lives of three women during and after World War II: Caroline Ferriday, a New York socialite and philanthropist; Kasia Kuzmerick, a Polish prisoner at Ravensbrück concentration camp; and Herta Oberheuser, a German doctor involved in medical experiments at the same camp. Their interconnected stories delve into themes of resilience, friendship, and the impact of war on individuals from different backgrounds.” (Source: ChatGPT)

9. Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford

This one is going on my reading list! “”Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” by Jamie Ford is a historical novel that follows the story of Henry Lee, a Chinese-American boy, and his friendship with Keiko, a Japanese-American girl, during World War II. Set in Seattle, the book explores themes of love, prejudice, and the impact of wartime internment on their lives as they navigate racial tensions and family expectations, while also reflecting on the power of memories and the enduring nature of first love.” (Source: ChatGPT)

10. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

This is the novel that made me an Anthony Doerr fan! Pulitzer Prize winner All the Light We Cannot See is a beautifully written, poignant story set in Europe during World War II. It tells the story of how a blind, French girl and an orphaned German boy experience the war. (Source: Me)

To learn more, read my All the Light We Cannot See book review.

11. Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

This one is by a terrific young adult author. “”Salt to the Sea” by Ruta Sepetys is a historical fiction novel set during World War II. It follows the intertwined lives of four young individuals from different backgrounds seeking refuge aboard the doomed Wilhelm Gustloff, a German ship evacuating civilians and wounded soldiers. As they navigate personal secrets, loss, and the horrors of war, their paths converge amidst the tragedy of the ship’s sinking in the Baltic Sea, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of WWII history.” (Source: ChatGPT)

12. The Caine Mutiny: A Novel of World War II by Herman Wouk

Here’s another classic World War II novel. “”The Caine Mutiny” is a novel by Herman Wouk set during World War II, focusing on the USS Caine, a US Navy minesweeper, and its crew. The story explores the psychological dynamics among the officers, particularly Captain Queeg’s increasingly erratic behavior and the crew’s concerns about his fitness for command. The novel culminates in a mutiny trial where the crew’s actions are scrutinized, revealing themes of loyalty, responsibility, and the challenges of leadership under pressure.” (Source: ChatGPT)

13. Dragonfly by Leila Meacham

This one is also going on my reading list! Set during World War II, Dragonfly is the story of five young Americans asked by the government to become spies. Although from very different backgrounds, the five bond under the code name “Dragonfly.” One of them is captured and faces a firing squad, but things may not be as they seem. Is this just another example of spy craft? (Source: Me – this one stumped ChatGPT)

14. Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

“”Sarah’s Key” by Tatiana de Rosnay follows the intertwined stories of a young girl named Sarah, who is caught up in the Vel’ d’Hiv Roundup during World War II, and a journalist named Julia who uncovers the past while investigating the event decades later. The novel delves into the dark history of the roundup and its impact on both Sarah’s life and Julia’s understanding of her own family’s past. Through their narratives, the book explores themes of memory, guilt, and the enduring legacy of wartime actions.” (Source: ChatGPT)

15. The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

If you like historical fiction with great plot twists, this novel is for you! As 92-year-old Dorothy lays dying in a hospital, her daughter, Laurel, recalls a shocking incident she witnessed as a teenager. Laurel’s quest to uncover the truth is also a journey back to WWII London and a time in her mother’s life when she was young and reckless. Laurel discovers the truth mostly from journals and letters that had been preserved. But the reader of The Secret Keeper gets much more detail than this as the author switches her narration back and forth between 1941 and 2011. (Source: Me)

Check out my review of The Secret Keeper.

16. Empire of the Sun by J.G. Ballard

“”Empire of the Sun” by J.G. Ballard is a semi-autobiographical novel set during World War II. It follows the journey of a young British boy, Jim, as he navigates the challenges and hardships of life in Shanghai after being separated from his parents. The novel explores themes of survival, resilience, and the loss of innocence amidst the backdrop of war.” (Source: ChatGPT)

17. A View Across the Rooftops by Suzanne Kelman

Set in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, A View Across the Rooftops is a gripping story of love, determination, and heroism. Professor Josef Held hides his student, Michael, in his attic when he learns he’s running from the gestapo. Michael speaks longingly of his girlfriend, Elke, and is determined to reunite with her despite impossible odds. And Josef makes it his mission to make that happen even though it may cost him his life. (Source: Me. Pro tip: Verify everything ChatGPT and similar tools produce. ChatGPT didn’t get this one quite right.)

18. The Baker’s Secret: A Novel by Stephen P. Kiernan

“”The Baker’s Secret” is a novel set in a French village during World War II, focusing on a young baker named Emmanuelle who secretly helps her community endure the hardships of the occupation by baking extra loaves of bread using smuggled ingredients. As she navigates the challenges of scarcity and oppression, her acts of resistance provide solace and sustenance to her fellow villagers, ultimately highlighting the power of small acts of kindness and defiance during times of adversity.” (Source: ChatGPT)

19. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

I consider this a modern classic of novels set during World War II. “”The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” is a novel by John Boyne set during the Holocaust. It follows the friendship between Bruno, the young son of a Nazi officer, and Shmuel, a Jewish boy imprisoned in a concentration camp. The story explores innocence, prejudice, and the tragic consequences of hatred.” (Source: ChatGPT)

20. The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel

“”The Book of Lost Names” is a historical novel by Kristin Harmel that follows the story of a young woman named Eva who, during World War II, forges documents to help Jewish children escape the Nazis. She creates a unique code to record their real names in books, preserving their identities. Decades later, Eva’s past resurfaces as she helps a young woman uncover her family history, exploring themes of resilience, love, and the power of memory.” (Source: ChatGPT)

21. Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Here’s a classic anti-war novel. “”Slaughterhouse-Five” follows the experiences of Billy Pilgrim, an American soldier, during World War II, particularly the bombing of Dresden. The novel blends elements of science fiction and satire to explore themes of war’s senselessness and the concept of time as non-linear, as Billy becomes “unstuck in time,” experiencing moments from his life out of sequence. Vonnegut’s narrative style and Billy’s journey convey the horrors of war and the human capacity to find meaning amidst chaos.” (Source: ChatGPT)

22. The Paris Architect: A Novel by Charles Belfoure

“”The Paris Architect” is a historical fiction novel by Charles Belfoure set during World War II. The story follows an architect named Lucien Bernard, who is coerced into designing secret hiding spaces for Jews in Nazi-occupied Paris. As he navigates moral dilemmas and risks his life to protect those in hiding, he undergoes a transformation that challenges his beliefs and ethics in a tumultuous era.” (Source: ChatGPT)

23. The Tattooist of Auschwitz: A Novel by Heather Morris

“”The Tattooist of Auschwitz” is a historical novel by Heather Morris that tells the story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew imprisoned at Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II. Lale becomes the camp’s tattooist, marking fellow prisoners with their identification numbers, and there he meets and falls in love with Gita. The novel chronicles their harrowing experiences, survival, and enduring love amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.” (Source: ChatGPT)

24. City of Thieves by David Benioff

Another one for my reading list: “”City of Thieves” by David Benioff follows the gripping journey of two young men, Lev and Kolya, during the siege of Leningrad in World War II. Tasked with finding a dozen eggs for a Soviet officer to save their lives, they navigate the war-torn city, encountering danger, camaraderie, and unexpected connections amidst the horrors of war.” (Source: ChatGPT)

25. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is set right after the end of WWII and tells the story of a woman author who discovers a unique group of people on the island of Guernsey and the story of how they survived the German occupation of their homeland. This is an epistolary story, told through letters and telegrams, and often quite charming. (Source: Me)

Check out my review of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society to find out more about this World War II historical fiction novel.

26. Of Windmills and War by Diane Moody

After the Pearl Harbor attack, American Danny McClain joins the military and becomes a copilot for B17 airplanes. His pen pal in Holland, Anya Versteeg, becomes active in the Dutch resistance to disrupt the occupying German army. Just before the end of the war, as American forces are delivering food to the starving Dutch citizens, Danny has a chance to find and rescue Anya. Will he find her in time? (Source: Me)

27. Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein

Code Name Verity is an intense World War II spy thriller that tells the story of two women spies who are shot down over German occupied France. “Verity”, her code name, is captured and interrogated by Nazis, who tell her that if she doesn’t give up her secrets she will face a horrible death. She carefully crafts a story, but will it be enough to save her and the pilot of the plane, Mollie?

28. Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan

World War II Italy is the setting for Beneath a Scarlet Sky, an engrossing novel based on the wartime experiences of teenager Pino Lella. Although it’s based on actual events, it reads like a thriller that has a lot of suspense and a lot of heart. (Source: Me)

To find out more, read my Beneath a Scarlet Sky book review.

29. A Coat Dyed Black: A Novel of the Norwegian Resistance by Don Pugnetti Jr.

Rounding out this list of novels set during World War II is A Coat Dyed Black. When Germany invaded Norway, the Norwegian army collapsed after just a couple of months, but that didn’t mean the Norwegian people just took it lying down. Norwegian special forces units were training in England, and farmer Bjørn Erliksen joined them to train to be a commando. Upon returning to Norway, Bjørn is reunited with a former love, and together they participate in sabotage missions. (Source: Me)

Well, what did you think? Did anything catch your eye? I’ll be adding several of these top-rated WWII novels to my reading list!

Huge thank you to Sofia for doing so much of the research!!

And if you like a good book list, scan through 15 Interesting Books Set in Germany. Many of the books on the list are also set during World War II.

And for even more bestselling novels about World War II, check out this list Amazon put together.