BOOK BRIEF

The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine who Outwitted America's Enemies

Jason Fagone
Guide cover placeholder

The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine who Outwitted America's Enemies

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2017

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Jason Fagone

The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine who Outwitted America's Enemies

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

444

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 20th Century

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine who Outwitted America's Enemies by Jason Fagone chronicles the life of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, a pioneering cryptanalyst. The book explores her significant contributions to codebreaking during both World Wars and her collaborative work with her husband, William Friedman.

Reviews & Readership

4.3

28,095 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Woman Who Smashed Codes by Jason Fagone receives acclaim for its thorough research and compelling narrative that highlights an unsung heroine in American history. Critics appreciate its engaging storytelling and depth of historical insight. Some note it can feel dense with technical details, which may challenge casual readers. Overall, it's a fascinating read that sheds light on a remarkable figure.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Woman Who Smashed Codes: A True Story of Love, Spies, and the Unlikely Heroine who Outwitted America's Enemies?

Readers fascinated by espionage, unsung heroines, and historical intrigue will enjoy The Woman Who Smashed Codes. Fans of Hidden Figures and The Code Book will appreciate this compelling true story of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, whose groundbreaking codebreaking efforts helped shape American intelligence.

4.3

28,095 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

444

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 20th Century

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!