The Rose Code by Kate Quinn is set in England during and just after World War II, following the experiences of three women—Osla, Mab, and Beth—who participate in the codebreaking operations at Bletchley Park. After the war, they work to uncover a traitor among their colleagues while highlighting the social changes, particularly regarding gender roles, brought on by the war. The novel includes mentions of sexual assault.

Kate Quinn's The Rose Code intricately explores friendship and espionage at Bletchley Park, garnering praise for its rich historical detail and compelling characters. Critics admire its blend of mystery and emotion, though some deem it overly lengthy. The novel skillfully balances historical accuracy with a gripping narrative, making it a recommended read.

Ideal for aficionados of historical fiction and codebreaking, The Rose Code by Kate Quinn captivates readers who enjoyed The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Alice Network by Kate Quinn. Fans of gripping narratives featuring strong female protagonists and World War II settings will find this novel irresistible.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Emotional / Nostalgic / Informative

**Osla Kendall**  
One of the novel’s three protagonists, based on Osla Benning, characterized as a dark-haired, dimpled debutante with a wry sense of humor, known for writing satirical prose and taking initiative at BP.

**Mabel “Mab” Churt**  
A protagonist from a working-class background, ambitious and diligent, she aspires to a better life for her and her daughter Lucy, while overcoming traumatic experiences and loss.

**Bethan “Beth” Finch**  
A protagonist with a talent for puzzle-solving, she works at BP, rising in resilience and autonomy despite an oppressive upbringing and working in challenging environments.

**Giles Talbot**  
A friendly, red-haired man at BP known for his charm and negative traits that are revealed over time; he has interactions with Osla and concerns surrounding secrecy.

**Francis Gray**  
Mab’s first husband, a World War I veteran and poet, known for his soft-spoken nature, literary expression, and supportive marriage to Mab.

**Harry Zarb**  
A BP codebreaker and love interest to Beth, of Arab, Maltese, and Egyptian descent, who deals with racism while balancing his sense of duty and integrity.

**Dilwyn “Dilly” Knox**  
Beth’s friend and mentor at BP, depicted as an eccentric yet heroic codebreaker, who becomes a father figure to Beth.

**Prince Philip**  
Osla’s longtime boyfriend, known for his royal honor and restraint in their relationship, ultimately influencing Osla’s character journey.

**The Finches**  
Beth’s parents, particularly her domineering mother Mrs. Finch, with traditional views and disapproval of Beth’s work and social life.

- The Rose Code by Kate Quinn brings to life the experiences of female codebreakers at Bletchley Park during World War II, inspired by real women who made significant contributions to cryptography.
- The author, Kate Quinn, conducted extensive research for The Rose Code, including interviews with historians and visits to Bletchley Park, to accurately portray the historical setting and events.
- As an acknowledgment of Bletchley Park's pivotal role in the Allied war effort, The Rose Code highlights how the codebreakers' work remained classified for decades, only becoming widely recognized in recent years.

Kate Quinn

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Prologue-Chapter 14

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Chapters 15-29

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Chapters 30-43

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Chapters 44-64

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Chapter 65-Epilogue

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