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448
Novel • Fiction
Ukraine • 1940s
2022
Adult
18+ years
The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn follows Soviet sniper Lyudmila "Mila" Pavlichenko's World War II experiences and her journey to the United States, where she befriends Eleanor Roosevelt. The narrative alternates between Mila's wartime efforts and a propaganda tour in the U.S., as an American sniper plans to frame her for President Roosevelt's assassination. The novel explores themes of trauma, recovery, emotional bonds in wartime, and gender norms in heroism. This work depicts sexual assault and includes graphic descriptions of wartime violence.
Suspenseful
Emotional
Mysterious
Dark
Inspirational
175,152 ratings
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Reviews for Kate Quinn's The Diamond Eye commend its captivating historical fiction and well-researched plot, engaging readers with intense and immersive storytelling. However, some criticize its pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, the book is praised for strong character development and vivid settings, making it a worthwhile read despite minor flaws.
Fans of historical fiction with strong female protagonists would enjoy Kate Quinn's The Diamond Eye. Readers who appreciate detailed WWII narratives, like those in Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale or Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See, will find this novel gripping and evocative.
175,152 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alexei Pavlichenko
Mila’s first husband, a controlling and arrogant surgeon who fails to respect her agency and uses his influence to manipulate circumstances to gain personal advantage.
The American Sniper
An anonymous character hired to undermine President Roosevelt's policies by assassination, disguising himself to penetrate various social circles to achieve his mission.
Kostia Shevelyov
Mila’s skilled and respectful sniper partner with a background in hunting, who values her intellect and becomes an important ally and companion.
Lyonya Kitsenko
Mila’s regimental commander, known for his charm and respect for Mila’s sniper skills, who develops a close bond with her during the war.
Lena Paliy
Mila’s friend at the front, who offers emotional support and shares a bond of trust and shared wartime experiences with her.
Eleanor Roosevelt
The active and influential First Lady who forges a supportive and understanding friendship with Mila during her visit to the United States.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
The 42nd president of the United States, represented as a symbol of hope for the Allied forces, whose life becomes the target of an assassination plot.
448
Novel • Fiction
Ukraine • 1940s
2022
Adult
18+ years
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