The Woman at the Front

By: Lecia Cornwall

Narrated by: Hannah Curtis

A daring young woman risks everything to pursue a career as a doctor on the front lines in France during World War I, and learns the true meaning of hope, love, and resilience in the darkest of times.

When Eleanor Atherton graduates from medical school near the top of her class in 1917, she dreams of going overseas to help the wounded, but her ambition is thwarted at every turn. Eleanor's parents insist she must give up medicine, marry a respectable man, and assume her proper place. While women might serve as ambulance drivers or nurses at the front, they cannot be physicians—that work is too dangerous and frightening.

Nevertheless, Eleanor is determined to make more of a contribution than sitting at home knitting for the troops. When an unexpected twist of fate sends Eleanor to the battlefields of France as the private doctor of a British peer, she seizes the opportunity for what it is—the chance to finally prove herself.

But there's a war on, and a casualty clearing station close to the front lines is an unforgiving place. Facing skeptical commanders who question her skills, scores of wounded men needing care, underhanded efforts by her family to bring her back home, and a blossoming romance, Eleanor must decide if she's brave enough to break the rules, face her darkest fears, and take the chance to win the career—and the love—she's always wanted.

Critic reviews

"An adventurous woman ahead of her time…a fascinating historical novel.”—Natasha Lester, New York Times bestselling author

“A uniquely female perspective of World War I…a beautiful, touching, romantic women’s fiction novel that is sure to delight fans of Outlander and Downton Abbey.”—Lori Nelson Spielman, New York Times bestselling author

"Realistic and emotionally engaging, you’ll believe every word."—Toronto Star

"An absorbing and immersive portrait of a woman whose courage, determination, and resolve would be exceptional in any age—but forged in the crucible of the Great War, tested again and again by a society riven by change, Dr. Eleanor Atherton is a heroine I will not soon forget...."—Jennifer Robson, USA Today bestselling author

“A riveting tale of medicine, courage, and grace under fire during the Great War…Compulsively readable!"—Stephanie Marie Thornton, USA Today bestselling author

"Cornwall’s realistic depiction of the battlefield horrors is enhanced by her magnetic, multidimensional characters. This emotionally charged novel delivers the goods."—Publishers Weekly

"Meticulously researched and deeply emotional—Cornwall has a gift for bringing history to life."—Christine Wells, author of Sisters of the Resistance

"Cornwall’s book is a spellbinding read. The gritty descriptions of the makeshift hospitals in the midst of battle ring true, and the dialog is pitch-perfect.”—Historical Novels Review

One of the best books I’ve heard.

First of all, the narrator did a fantastic job and I’ll be looking for more books read by her. The author did an awesome job of drawing you into the story, developing the characters and of describing what you were supposed to see and hear. It was one of those books you don’t want to end. Sadly the content was all too true.

My new favorite book!

I adore stories like this! Brilliant women shocking those around them and being bad ass.

so many heros

I loved this book, war is a horrible time. The author left nothing out in telling the horror of war. The women were so courageous in this book. I loved everything about this, except all the death. Which I already new of. You are a wonderful author!

Inspirational story of courage,

I fell in love with the characters, the story and the information about WW1. So sorry when it ended..I could have gone on and on.
This should be made into a movie and the author did a great job.

Such a beautifully written story

I loved every minute of this story. Thoroughly engaging and beautifully written. You thank yourself for picking this one.