This is a hardcore book in the best possible way. It deals with some horrific subject matter that was real and true along with some more uplifting moments. The artwork is beautiful and the story is fast paced, with characters that you will remember.

This graphic novel wasn't quite what I expected, but I was eager to learn more about the history behind the Night Witches. While this is fictionalized, the author makes note at the end of what historical details he was inspired to use to create the characters and the story, which was compelling to read about. The three "parts" felt a little disjointed and the difference in narrative between part one and two confused me since part one has two focuses (the German soldier and the Night Witch) and part two solely focused on the Night Witch. But overall, I was engaged with the entire story. The ending, though a little too fantastical, was hopeful after everything that happens.

The artwork reminds me of propaganda posters from the WWII time frame, which I thought lent itself well to the story line. Due to the content (which includes graphic violence and strong language), I would recommend this to an adult audience interested in stories about historical wars.

The Night Witches, both the book and the women these stories were based on, are the most amazing stories. In other formats the stories of the Night Witches are incredible, but in this format makes the women who sacrificed so much come alive. While it is based on true events, it also feels like an amazing adventure. The illustrations are remarkable and leap off the page. This collection bring the history to light for anyone and everyone brave enough to fly with them.

Beautiful illustrations and a very interesting piece of history we all should know more about. Highly recommend.

'The Night Witches' by Garth Ennis with art by Russ Braun is a collection of the 3 Night Witch story from Garth Ennis' Battlefields, and follows one Russian pilot for one heck of a story arc.

The Night Witches were Russian women who flew in combat against Germany in the fight to defend their homeland. They flew obsolete biplanes on bombing runs. This story is the fictional story of Anna Kharkova, a pilot with the Night Witches, women who were terrified to crash behind enemy lines. The second story 'Motherland' puts Anna in to the Battle of Kursk with it's high casualty rate. Anna's fate is revealed in the final story.

This is solid storytelling, and this is a well written character. I even approve of the ending, though I know it's not realistic. I wanted this ending for Anna. The art is great. Along with a sketchbook, there is a nice essay about the real events that inspired the story.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Naval Institute Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.

A graphic novel in three disjointed segments, The Night Witches follows a fictional character that dramatizes real historical events. The art was well done, and overall it was not a bad read. I think I would have enjoyed it more if it were a cohesive story. Highly recommend for fans of modern history, war dramatization, and WW2 narratives.