of F Section, including Nancy Wake The history of Soe's war in the shadows has been told many times, and much is known about the men who fought underground. However, less is known about the women who also risked their lives for Britain and the liberation of France. By 1942 Soe was in desperate need of new recruits for their dangerous missions in France and they turned to a previously unexplored group—women. These female recruits came from all levels of society and were often motivated by an idealistic love of France and a desire to play a part in its liberation. Many displayed unexpected qualities. Some proved good leaders, like Pearl Witherington, others like Nancy Wake laughed their way through the war, many others like Noor Inayat Khan showed astonishing courage through terrible privations, and many of them died bravely and painfully. Without doubt their contributions to secret missions of resistance and sabotage saved numerous lives. Here, for the first time the story of all 40 of these extraordinary women is told.

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