Ten million people fled France in 1940. Virginia Hall drove an ambulance among the lines of people every day. She was 34 years old, a pioneer of espionage, and her experience in the war made her feel vital and alive. However, despite her impact, even her closest allies in France knew little about her. The author details her history researching the book, and why she felt it was important to tell Virginia’s story.

Virginia Hall was born on April 6, 1906. Her parents were Barbara and Edwin (known as Ned) Hall. Barbara was a social climber who married Edwin when he was her boss. Barbara wanted Virginia to marry into money, particularly after Edwin’s fortune dwindled. However, Virginia was a tomboy as a child. Boys pursued her, but she found them exasperating. She “took pleasure in defying convention” (8), and Ned indulged her more boyish pursuits, like athletics and hunting. According to Barbara’s wishes, Virginia—nicknamed Dindy—became engaged at age 19. However, her fiancé was unfaithful and unambitious. Virginia ended their engagement in favor of adventure and travel.

Over the next seven years she studied at five universities. In 1926, lured by tales of independent women and glamor, she moved to Paris, where she met many famous people, including influential politicians and artists.