If you enjoy books based on real people, this one is an absolute must! It is based on the life of trailblazing photojournalist and war correspondent Georgette ‘Dickey’ Meyer Chappelle and follows her from post WWII until the Vietnam war. It brings many of Dickey’s real experiences to life such as her imprisonment during the 1956 Hungary uprising, or the evolution of her friendship with Fidel Castro. It also grants readers a captivating insider’s view into the life of an international photojournalist. But above all, it brings to light the incredible life achievements of Dickey herself.

Trained as a Marine, she defied the social conventions placed on women in the 50s-60s: she rejected marital life, prioritized her career (which she considered a vocation), and delved into a male-dominated field where she became highly respected despite much pushback at the start (and despite some mistakes along the way). She was a woman who felt compelled to bear witness and document the realities of war. She aimed to document the cost of war and take ‘the photo that ends all wars.’

It's a fascinating read and I loved the various formats that author Erika Robuck used to bring the story to life: letters, cables, radio interviews… It’s also fascinating to connect the story to the photos referenced in the book which you can look up on the Wisconsin Historical Society’s website. Dickey’s photos, in addition to being published in leading publications such as Reader’s Digest and National Geographic, were also used by the military for intelligence gathering. Dickey was a very much an active serviceperson in these conflicts.

I highly recommend this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

Wow ! I learned so much from this book. I have never heard of Dicky Chapelle and now I can't wait to read more about her. She had such an extraordinary life. Erika Robuck always weaves a story that sucks you in and stays with you for a long time. I highly recommend giving this one a read if you enjoy historical fiction,

Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the digital arc in exchange for my honest review.

Maybe I grew up under a rock or in a bubble (my husband would say yes) but I'd never heard of Dickey Chapelle until I read The Last Assignment. Now I am dying to know more! She is one amazing, larger than life woman, and Erika Robuck really portrays her well. Dickey lives through a failing marriage to an insecure older man, multiple trips to war zones (and she's not staying back from danger), embedded with the marines, all during a time when women just didn't do these things. Dickey was a fearless journalist who's calling in life was to create change and make people's lives better by reporting on war, atrocities and things that people either didn't know or were unwilling to hear. You won't be able to put this book down (I certainly couldn't) until you've reached the very end, and then I wanted more. Fortunately Erika Robuck provided helpful historical notes at the end and a referral to a reading list, I can satisfy that need to know more,

The Last Assignment is an truly amazing story about a one of a kind out to change the world and everyone should read it! I would give it ten stars if I could.

Erika Robuck masterfully brings to life a compelling reimagining of the extraordinary Dickey Chappelle, who defied conventions as America's first female professional war photographer and tragically became the first American woman war correspondent to lose her life in the heat of battle in this moving novel, THE LAST ASSIGNMENT.

Through meticulous research and a richly engaging narrative style, Robuck immerses readers in the vibrant yet tumultuous world of Dickey Chappelle, not only celebrating her indomitable spirit but also her unyielding resilience in the face of adversity. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of historical significance, capturing the essence of a remarkable woman who broke barriers in a male-dominated profession.

The story is further animated by a rich tapestry of fictionalized letters, poignant diary entries, urgent telegrams, and captivating transcripts from radio and television broadcasts. Each element is thoughtfully crafted from authentic documents, personal accounts, and historical recordings that resonate with the echo of her groundbreaking journey, transporting readers into the heart of a life dedicated to truth, courage, and the pursuit of justice in a chaotic world.

About...

The award-winning photojournalist Dickey Chapelle is a tenacious figure, willing to risk everything to unveil the stark and often harrowing realities of war through the unflinching eye of her camera.

Manhattan, 1954.

Almost a decade has passed since Georgette Dickey Chapelle was arrested for defying orders during a daring incursion at Iwo Jima. Yet, the spirit of this combat correspondent remains unbroken, ignited by an insatiable desire for truth and a relentless pursuit of her craft.

Life has thrown countless obstacles in her path—military accreditation stripped away, a marriage fracturing under strain, and financial resources evaporating. But these trials only stoke the internal fire that fuels her determination. With a fierce resolve to bear witness to the realities of war from the front lines, Dickey embraces the next opportunity with open arms.

Across the globe, she ventures into chaotic war zones—dense jungles, turbulent seas, and barren wastelands—her camera a constant companion as she captures the unwavering spirit of both American and international soldiers. With extraordinary courage and unyielding tenacity, she navigates a world fraught with discrimination and danger.

In this quest to document the costs of conflict, she may well find not just a purpose, but also a path to self-redemption, emerging as a pioneering force known far and wide for her groundbreaking work and indomitable spirit.

My thoughts…

Erika Robuck, a master of historical fiction, once again captivates readers with her latest work, delivering a powerful and inspiring account of a remarkable woman who stands as a beacon of courage throughout history.

The story unfolds through the extraordinary journey of a woman who defies the odds, from her impressive education at MIT to her career as a skilled pilot. Despite facing challenges such as poor vision, she perseveres, training with the US Marines. She makes history as the first American woman to parachute into combat, daringly confronting enemy fire, only to find herself imprisoned and subjected to the harrowing brutality of torture by Russian forces in Hungary.

Dickey emerges as a fiercely daring protagonist, a woman driven not only by her passion for photography but also by an unwavering commitment to bear witness to history during a time when female photographers were often marginalized. Time and again, she places herself in perilous situations to aid war victims and freedom fighters, showcasing a relentless spirit and compassion.

THE LAST ASSIGNMENT is an essential read for aficionados of historical narratives, offering a gripping exploration of the tumultuous events of the 1960s. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring strength and empowerment of women today. Through the vivid portrayal of Dickey, readers gain insight into the complexities of her character, her relentless determination to survive, and her profound willingness to uplift others amid chaos.

Rich in historical detail, the novel is suspenseful and intense, weaving a tapestry of love, peace, war, and the resilience of the human spirit. THE LAST ASSIGNMENT is the perfect choice for book clubs, inviting deep discussions and reflections. An extensive Author's Note and Suggestions for Further Reading enhance the experience, providing additional context and insight into the era.

Audiobook...

I had the privilege of not only reading the book but also immersing myself in the audiobook, masterfully narrated by the talented Kristin Price. Her compelling voice brilliantly brings to life the audacious adventures and perilous journeys of real-life combat correspondent Georgette "Dickey" Chapelle. With a remarkable blend of passion and fervor, Kristin’s narration transforms each scene into a vivid experience, allowing listeners to feel the adrenaline and intensity of Dickey's incredible stories firsthand.

In essence, Erika Robuck shines as a true artist in her storytelling, delving deep into the lives of remarkable women who have indelibly shaped the course of history. Her ability to weave their narratives with such depth and nuance is nothing short of extraordinary. Bravo!

Recs...

If you're an avid enthusiast of historical fiction, THE LAST ASSIGNMENT is a must-read. This gripping novel caters not only to devoted fans of the author but also to those captivated by the intricate tapestry of history.

I am a huge fan of the author's work, and exceptional historical fiction emerges from writers who possess the extraordinary ability to vividly resurrect the past, crafting narratives that are immersive and compelling. The most remarkable authors in this genre transport readers into bygone eras, weaving unforgettable stories that ensure the courage and resilience of remarkable women are celebrated and not forgotten.

For those who relish the works of esteemed authors like Charles Fraser, Paula McLain, Ron Rash, Kristin Hannah, Kate Quinn, Kelly Rimmer, Marie Benedict, Beatrice Williams, Dawn Tripp, Diane Chamberlain, Kristina McMorris, Kim Michelle Richardson, and Jennifer Robson, this novel promises an experience that aligns with the rich storytelling you adore.

Thank you...

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sourcebooks Landmark, NetGalley, and Tantor Audio for graciously providing this remarkable historical narrative in both e-book and audio formats. Their generosity has allowed me to immerse myself in an extraordinary account, and I am eager to share my honest reflections on this captivating work.

blog review posted @
JudithDCollins
@JudithDColins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Aug 19, 2025
Aug Newsletter
Aug 2025 Must-Read Books

Erika Robuck is one of the best historical fiction writers I have ever read. She takes a historical event or person that is not well known and brings it to life. I feel like I am right there seeing her story as I read it. I traveled the world with Dickey and felt all the feelings she had as she worked to take the photograph that would end the wars.

Dickey is living in a man’s world, traveling to dangerous places, all while taking pictures that tell the story of what happening. I love her strength and grit. She never backed away from a tough or dangerous situation, usually she moved towards them.

The Last Assignment had me unable to put the book down. I needed to know what would happen to Dickey next.

The Last Assignment is a compelling work that blends historical fiction, war journalism, and biographical storytelling. Author Robuck presents an in-depth portrayal of Dickey Chapelle, a pioneering female war correspondent, highlighting both her professional legacy and personal complexities. The narrative explores themes such as courage, journalistic integrity, and the emotional toll of witnessing conflict firsthand. This title is particularly suited for readers interested in nuanced character studies and historically grounded narratives that emphasize authenticity and emotional depth.

A powerful, inspiring read for anyone who loves historical fiction about women who made history by refusing to step aside!

What really stood out to me was Dickey’s determination to live the things she was reporting on in order to speak about them authentically and the hope that a single photograph might awaken the world to the need for peace.

While the book doesn't shy away from the heavy topics around war, it also shows us a lot about Dickey as a person: flawed, determined, bold, and deeply human.

She was a woman ahead of her time, pushing against gender barriers in journalism and embedding herself in stories that most would never dare enter.

I have read and enjoyed several of this author's books. I have also learned quite a bit from each. This one is about a women I had never heard about. I'm very glad this was written. Not just for the story but for the info. How a female was a force to be during several wars. As a photojournalist. And as a strong, albeit, tiny female.

You meet Georgette "Dickey" Meyer Chapelle at the very beginning of this story. She's quite the woman too. You meet her family and quite a few friends. I liked every one of them except her "husband" and I use that term loosely. But Dickey loved him. She took up photography because of him. But he was not a faithful man and Dickely deserved better. Or to be free...

This book takes you from New York City in 1954 to October 1965. You'll learn how Dickey endured each war. Taking pictures of injured and innocent families. How she became a prisoner. How she met some strong leaders. Some of which totally let her down. Lied. Dickey loved her family but didn't have a strong bond with her mother. Seems her mother thought she should remain home and be a wife. Not that that was a bad thing. It was just not what Dickey wanted.

Dickey worked for several magazines and other places. She had pictures that the government confiscated due to the content. She loved the Marines more than anything and wanted to be one. But that was just not meant to be. Dickey knew how to survive. She went from WW2 through Vietnam photographing wars. She met so many kind and wonderful people. Of course there were some pretty awful ones too.

This book is kind of repetitive but it explains all of the things Dickey did and went through. You really get an in depth view of her life. Dickey lost some good friends and some family. She handled it as would be expected. I enjoyed this book but did wish it was a tad shorter. I learned about a woman who went after what she wanted and got it.

Well researched. Well told. I enjoyed the letters and posts from Dickey and others. I enjoyed learning about a strong female back when females were meant to be home having babies and waiting on husbands. I admire what Dickey did. A lot.

Thank you #sourcebookslandmark, @tantormedia, for this ARC.

Erika Robuck writes the most wonderful fascinating historical fiction,I’ve enjoyed each of her books .Her latest novel about real life photo journalist Dickey ChapelleI followed her career her travels her vision.Another gem of a book by this author.#NetGalley #sourcebooks

Since her arrest for disobeying orders and going ashore at Iwo Jima almost a decade earlier, combat correspondent Georgette “Dickey” Chapelle has been unmoored. Her military accreditation revoked, her marriage failing, and her savings dwindling, Dickey jumps at the next opportunity. In the aftermath of a an assignment gone wrong, a flame is lit deep inside Dickey—to survive in order to be the world’s witness to war from the front lines.

There is a lot of information in this novel and it is captivating. The intensity, especially when Dickey is in a communist prison in Hungary, will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Dickey did not take no for an answer nor did she follow the rules. And this got her into a lot of trouble in almost every country she was ever in. Now, the section about Cuba is interesting but it just didn’t captivate me quite like the other parts of the book. Probably because I have read several books about this and knew a good bit about what was happening.

Y’all know I love a book which has me researching. Georgette “Dickey” Chapelle was a fascinating woman. I could not help but look her up. I wanted to see some of her work. She truly was an amazing photographer!

This book is well researched, compelling and intense. This is full of drama about a strong woman every one needs to know about.

Need an interesting tale about a unique lady based on a true story…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

Dickey Chapelle was a fierce, loyal, determined and incredibly confident woman. She was the friend you wish to have in your life who would fight for what she believes in while doing her best to take the photo to end all wars. Fiercely independent and the epitome of strength, Chapelle was unrelenting in her pursuit for authenticity and justice in her role as a war correspondent, covering seven wars in five years. Unafraid to work side by side with Las Marianas of Cuba; humanitarian aid workers; government officials, Hungarian freedom fighters; the home guard of Binh Hung, during the Vietnam War; the US Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines… The real life Dickey Chapelle reported on it all - efficiently and with heart in a bid to help others and make the world a better place.

Chapelle lived and breathed what she reported on, jumping off the page in her authenticity. It felt as though Dickey Chapelle was speaking directly to me as she recounted her life story through the exceptional skill of audiobook narrator @kristinpricevo who became Chapelle for me. @erobuckauthor writing never falters, bringing a depth and rawness to Chapelle’s life that would make the war correspondent incredibly proud. Engaging, layered, and nuanced, this is a story I couldn’t put down that will stay with me long after I read the final lines.

Thank you to @bookmarked and @tantoraudio for the complimentary advance audiobook and ebook to read on @netgalley

“Of one thing you can be sure: I’ll continue to push the boundaries until my dying breath, seeking the one thing I’ll never attain but which I’ll forever hope and strive. Before I get to my last assignment, I want to get the picture to end all wars,” Dickey Chapelle.

A trailblazer in her time, Dickey Chapelle would do whatever it took to get the shot—even getting arrested for going ashore in Iwo Jima as a combat correspondent against direct orders.

After losing her military accreditation and discovering her husband’s infidelity, Dickey wasn’t sure what was next. But boots-on-the-ground reporting had always been her M.O. When the chance came to cover an uprising and humanitarian crisis in Hungary, she jumped in—only to land in trouble once again. A stint in a communist prison ultimately restored her credentials, and from there she hit the ground running: first to Cuba, where Fidel Castro and Che Guevara were working to overthrow Batista, and then straight into the escalating conflict in Vietnam.

Fearless and uncompromising, Dickey was determined to make Americans see what was happening beyond their own borders. She leapt from helicopters, risked her life daily, and pursued her dream of capturing “the picture to end all wars,” working tirelessly until her final assignment.

At first, Erika Robuck’s novel can feel disorienting as she drops readers into Dickey’s whirlwind world with little pause. But once the threads come together, the story sharpens, and the relentless pace feels exactly right for its subject.

The Last Assignment is a vivid, fast-moving tribute to a woman who refused to look away. Both inspiring and sobering, it’s a reminder of the power—and cost—of bearing witness.

Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Media, and author Erika Robuck for the advanced copy of the audiobook. The Last Assignment is out on August 19th. All opinions are my own.

After a few days of deciding what to rate this book, I am going to settle on 3 stars. It's not that I didn't like it, I just didn't LOVE it. I read a few reviews to try to figure out WHY I didn't like it compared to her earlier books and I agree with some that the book was long and drawn out and that Dickey herself, while definitely a pioneer in war photography and being a woman in the heart of wars, wasn't very likable in some parts. Her story didn't bring me in like some other women pioneers I have read, but I did learn a lot in regard to Hungary, Cuba and Vietnam.

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy. I am not a reviewer who will retell the plot, just my feelings towards the book as the reader can look up the plot themselves.

This is an absolutely captivating historical fiction that I just loved. It is based on the life of Georgette "Dickey" Chapelle, who dedicated her life to capturing both the bravery and the suffering caused by war in photographs. Dickey was 0ne of the early female combat photographers, as well as a free-lance writer, and her life, her photos and her writing were legendary. Dickey was a trailblazer who did all of her reporting and photography with her "boots on the ground". She trained with the Marines to be ready when she was thrust into combat situations. In this meticulously researched novel, Erika Robuck has brought the courageous Dickey vividly to life! She has captured the essence of Dickey, her hopes, dreams, and fears as well as the triumphs and traumas that shaped her. Dickey's photojournalism took her from Iwo Jima to Hungarian prison camps, to Cuba, and finally to Vietnam. Dickey freelanced for many major publications, risked her life countless times to bring the truth to the world, and encountered both the famous and the everyday people affected by the horrors of war. Erika Robuck has brilliantly created a memorable tribute to Dickey, and the people and events of her life. Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.

Dickey Chapelle was a name I had never heard before a few days ago, but her story is one I am so glad to have discovered through this beautiful piece of historical fiction.

I’ve read other of Erika Robuck’s books, but I think this one is my favorite!

Dickey Chapelle filled up numerous passports as she traveled the globe as a war correspondent and photographer. She photographed war-torn countries and suffering people; she jumped out of planes and spent time in a Hungarian prison; she won awards and saw her photographs on the covers of magazines.

I listened to/read (another one of those immersive reads!) most of this one in a single day because I wanted to know more of the story. This type of book is why I will forever love historical fiction.

Aside from being a well-written, informative and enjoyable story, this book also made me proud to be an American and, more so, proud to be an American woman.

Dickey travels all over the world, getting stamp after stamp in her passport. What’s the most recent stamp in your passport?

I love Erika’s historical fiction that highlights unknown women from history. I had never heard of Dickey Chapelle before this book and am glad to know this amazing woman photojournalist who risked her life to tell the story of people trapped by violence around the world. From the Iron Curtain in Hungary to the shores of Cuba to the jungles of South Vietnam, Dickey was a trailblazer who cared about getting the story more than her own well-being. Erika’s writing puts you right beside Dickey as she jumps out of planes and hides from Communist soldiers in a fast-paced, thrilling tale.

Don’t Google Dickey before reading! You’ll want to go in blind so you can take in the twists and turns Erika weaves into an already unbelievable life story. Highly recommend!

This is the story of female paratrooper and photojournalist, Dickey Chapelle. Erika Robuck’s extensive research is evident as the narrative of Dickey’s life story plays out on four different continents. Robuck laces her novel with letters, diary entries, telegrams, and radio broadcasts based on real life accounts. These add authenticity and suspense to the novel, which is divided into three main parts, spanning 1954, New York City-to 1965, Viet Nam. A war correspondent grieving the loss of her parents and her marriage, Dickey Chapelle’s life story exemplifies her courage, determination and commitment to her life goal, “making the picture to end all wars.” This is a compelling account which leaves images etched in one’s memory of scenes written with indelible detail and vivid accuracy. Filled with tension from prison cell to battlefields, Erika Robuck’s Last Assignment bestows an honorable tribute worthy of the highest award and a Marine salute: To the life and accomplishments of Dickey Chapelle. Semper Fi.

The Last Assignment by Erika Robuck ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Ever since I read First to the Front in 2023, I’ve been enamored with Dickey Chapelle. She is my go-to response for what person from history I’d want to have dinner with. So when I saw this book, I was beyond ecstatic.

This book was easy to read. It was focused on the portion of Dickey’s life it decided to explore. It appeared to stay pretty true to actual events (based on my limited knowledge), and the author explained any deviations in her note. But I found it to be lacking in pizazz. I didn’t see it capture Dickey as a person. Perhaps it was the third person approach or the “telling rather than showing” narrative, but I felt like this could’ve packed an emotional punch, and it just fell flat for me.

Do I think you should read this book? Absolutely. Dickey Chapelle is an incredible figure, and this would be a great introduction to some of the things she accomplished. Do I think I suffered from having too high expectations? Yes, but that’s on me.

Fans of historical fiction, books that showcase female trailblazers, and books that give more context to global conflicts will love this one.

This historical fiction novel details the life of award-winning photojournalist Dickey Chapelle. From her failed marriage to having her military accreditation revoked, her work with an international refugee association, time spent in a Hungarian prison, meeting Fidel Castro while covering the Cuban Missile Crisis, time spent in Vietnam during the Vietnam war, and so much more, the book was filled with her accomplishments, setbacks, and all of the danger that she faced in order to try to get the best pictures possible. While the subject matter was not one that really interested me, I did appreciate the fact that Dickey was a fascinating woman, and the author did an excellent job bringing her story to life.

I received an advance reader copy (ARC) from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. This novel was interesting and full of fascinating detail regarding an unknown figure in history. As a former journalist myself, I don't know that I understand the motivations that drove Dickey Chapelle, but to be the first female photographer or correspondent to cover a story could have been a strong lure.

I sincerely enjoyed several novels by Erica Robuck, and was a little disappointed with the writing of this novel compared to her other works. However, it is a highly entertaining and interesting novel, full of fascinating details and settings that put you at the crossroads of war throughout Dickey's life.