The Rose Code

The Rose Code is a historical fiction mystery novel by Kate Quinn, published in 2021. Set in England during and just after World War II, the novel follows the experiences of three women who participate in Bletchley Park’s codebreaking operation, as well as their efforts after the war to uncover a traitor among their colleagues. Their stories highlight the social changes brought on by World War II, especially concerning gender dynamics. Kate Quinn is the author of several historical fiction novels for adults, including The Huntress and The Alice Network. Citations in this guide correspond with the first edition of The Rose Code published by HarperCollins.

Content Warning: The Rose Code and this guide include mention of sexual assault.

Plot Summary

The plot develops along two alternating timelines. The first starts in 1939 in England. As World War II begins, debutante Osla Kendall seeks to contribute to the war effort. After a short stint at a factory, she transfers to a top-secret codebreaking facility housed at Bletchley Park (BP). On her way there, she meets Mab Churt, an ambitious woman from a low-class background, also assigned to BP. Osla fills a secretarial position, though she later requests and receives a translation assignment, while Mab helps run codebreaking machines.