«I have always been fascinated by this charismatic Resistance hero, Josephine Baker, but it turned out I didn't even know half the story. Lewis's narrative left me speechless. Again.» - Dan Snow

«A story of incredible bravery in the face of tyrants who took over a free and democratic country, this story will have a powerful impact today.» - Tim Spicer

During World War II, Josephine Baker, the wealthiest and most glamorous entertainer in the world, was an Allied spy in occupied France. This is the story of her heroic personal resistance against Nazi Germany.

Before World War II, Josephine Baker was a famous musical theater diva, known for her singing and exotic dancing, her beauty, and her sexuality. She was the highest-paid female artist in Europe. When the Nazis occupied her adopted city, Paris, her appearance on stage was banned along with all "negroes and Jews." However, instead of returning to America, she decided to stay and fight against Nazi evil. Overnight, she transformed from entertainer to Resistance spy.

In «The Flame of Resistance», author Damien Lewis uncovers this little-known story of the famous singer's life. During the war years, as a member of the French paratroopers - a cover for her espionage work - she was involved in numerous clandestine activities and evolved into a formidable spy. Consequently, she became a hero to the three countries she served: the USA, her country of birth, France, the land that welcomed her during her adult career, and Britain, the country from which she received her orders, as one of London's most closely guarded special agents.

Baker's secret war embodies a story of boundless bravery, passion, devotion, and sacrifice, and deep, bitter tragedy, fueled by her desire to fight the rise of Nazism and stand up for everything that is good and right in the world. Based on a plethora of new historical material and meticulous research, including previously unpublished letters and diaries, Lewis overturns the traditional story of Josephine Baker, revealing that her mark on history goes far beyond the limits of the stage.

«A proposal that opens the eyes and raises the pulse, a story. Josephine Baker led a war-time double life with extraordinary risk and Damien Lewis's sharp narrative is full of suspense. Yet, he also writes with great warmth and sensitivity, creating a powerfully moving portrait of a woman who fought prejudice and hatred in all its forms.» - Sinclair McKay

«A thrilling true story of a remarkable heroine. The details of Josephine Baker's espionage for the Deuxieme Bureau, the French military intelligence service during the war, make for a fascinating read in Damien Lewis's carefully documented narrative.» - Deborah Cadbury

Pages: 496, Year of Publication: 2023, Dimensions: 12.8x12.8cm