Book Review #Nurse Kitty: After the War #Publisher: Orion Fiction #Maggie Campbell #Saga #Rachel's Random Resources #Book on Tour

 MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

"Nurse Kitty: After the War" by Maggie Campbell is a captivating and poignant saga set in 1950, following the life of Sister Kitty Longthorne at Manchester's Park Hospital. The novel skillfully weaves together elements of drama, romance, and historical events, creating a rich narrative that resonates with readers who enjoy stories set in the aftermath of World War II.

The novel opens with Nurse Kitty Longthorne navigating the bustling and demanding environment of Park Hospital. As a dedicated Sister, she faces the challenges of a surge in polio cases among children, an increase in major trauma incidents, and the impact of political and racial conflicts on her patients and colleagues. Campbell expertly captures the essence of the post-war era, depicting a society grappling with the scars of the past while striving to build a better future.

One of the central threads of the narrative revolves around Kitty's personal life as she prepares to marry her fiancé, Dr. James Williams. However, their happiness is threatened by the looming Cold War tensions, which lead to scrutiny and suspicion due to connections close to their hearts. The fear of treason adds a layer of suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they wonder whether Kitty and James will ever get the chance to celebrate their love.

The strength of "Nurse Kitty: After the War" lies in its well-drawn characters and the attention to historical detail. Inspired by the real-life nurses and doctors of the first NHS hospital, Trafford General, the novel pays homage to the unsung heroes who played crucial roles in shaping the healthcare landscape post-World War II. Kitty's determination to treat everyone with respect, despite the challenges she faces, serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Fans of popular historical dramas like "Call the Midwife" and "The Nightingale Girls" will find themselves engrossed in the world Maggie Campbell has created. The narrative seamlessly blends romance and societal issues, offering readers a well-rounded and emotionally resonant experience. "Nurse Kitty: After the War" is not just a love story; it is a celebration of the strength, compassion, and perseverance of those who dedicated their lives to healing in the aftermath of war.

In conclusion, Maggie Campbell's novel is a compelling and heartfelt exploration of post-war life, love, and the challenges faced by healthcare professionals. "Nurse Kitty: After the War" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical sagas filled with genuine emotion, vivid characters, and a keen understanding of the historical backdrop against which the story unfolds.

Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Orion Fiction for an advance copy for my honest review.

 BOOK DESCRIPTION

It is 1950 and Kitty Longthorne is now a Sister at Manchester's Park Hospital, and as busy as ever. With dizzying numbers of children with polio being admitted to the children's ward, a sharp uptick of major trauma from road accidents and growing political and racial conflict affecting her patients and staff, there's no shortage of drama at the hospital. But Kitty is determined that everyone is treated with respect.

Outside of the hospital, Kitty is finally ready to marry her fiancé, Dr James Williams. But with the growing Cold War tensions, Kitty and James come under scrutiny because of two people close to their hearts. With any suspicious activity grounds for treason, their happily ever after is suddenly on shaky ground... will they ever be able to set a date for the wedding?

Inspired by the brave nurses and doctors from the first NHS hospital, the Trafford General, which opened after the end of World War II. Perfect for fans of Call the Midwife and The Nightingale Girls.

Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nurse-Kitty-After-Maggie-Campbell-ebook/dp/B0CDDP7KBY 

https://www.amazon.com/Nurse-Kitty-After-Maggie-Campbell-ebook/dp/B0CDDP7KBY

Author Bio – Margaret Campbell grew up in Manchester at a time when the city was still on its knees, post-war. She can just about remember the end of rationing! After decades of working as a seamstress in factories, once her children had grown up, Margaret retrained to be a midwife - a career she adored. She now lives in a cottage that overlooks the rolling Pennines where she writes, grows rare dahlias and keeps chickens.

Publication Date: 25th January 2024

Publisher: Orion Fiction

Standalone Third book in a series

Book Review #My Heart Is In Venice #Helga Jensen #Publisher: Hera Books # Rom Com/ Women's Fiction #Book on Tour #Rachel's Random Resources

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW 

"My Heart Is In Venice" by Helga Jensen is a delightful rom-com that transports readers to the enchanting canals and picturesque landscapes of Venice, weaving together a heartwarming tale of love, self-discovery, and the magic of new beginnings.

The story revolves around the charming and relatable protagonist, Emma, who finds herself at a crossroads in life. Tired of the monotony of her routine and the predictability of her relationships, Emma decides to embark on a spontaneous journey to Venice, a city known for its timeless beauty and romantic ambiance. Little does she know that this impulsive trip will become the catalyst for a series of comical and heartwarming events that will change the course of her life.

Helga Jensen skillfully blends humor and emotion, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Emma's character is well-developed, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the labyrinthine streets of Venice and, metaphorically, the complexities of her own heart. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, with quirky locals, unexpected friendships, and a dash of romance that keeps the plot engaging and dynamic.

One of the strengths of "My Heart Is In Venice" is Jensen's vivid and evocative descriptions of the city. The author brings Venice to life with rich details, making it not just a backdrop but a character in itself. The sights, sounds, and aromas of the city are so vividly portrayed that readers may feel transported to the cobblestone streets and gondola-filled canals alongside Emma.

The romantic elements in the story are tender and sweet, capturing the essence of a rom-com. However, what sets this novel apart is its emphasis on self-discovery and personal growth. Emma's journey is not just about finding love but also about finding herself. The themes of empowerment and embracing life's uncertainties resonate strongly, making it a relatable and inspiring read for women of all ages.

"My Heart Is In Venice" is a lighthearted and uplifting novel that balances humor, romance, and self-discovery. Helga Jensen's writing style is engaging, and her ability to transport readers to the heart of Venice adds an extra layer of charm to the story. This book is a perfect choice for those seeking a feel-good read with a touch of wanderlust and a strong dose of heart.

Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Hera Books for an advance copy for my honest review.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

My Heart Is In Venice

Venice was where it all began…

Libby and Will spent a glorious honeymoon in this magical city. They didn’t have much money, but they had a whole lot of love and a bright future ahead of them.

And Venice was where it all went wrong…

Two kids and twenty-five years later, they are struggling with money problems but somehow Will manages to fulfil his promise to Libby to take her back to Venice for their anniversary. This time, they are doing it in style and a masked ball awaits. But among the beautiful buildings and romantic canals, Libby learns that her husband has a secret that breaks her heart.

The trust is broken and the marriage is over. But there are decades of love and two grown sons between them.

Can they ever find their way back to each other or have they missed their chance forever?

A funny and heartwarming second-chance romance, perfect for fans of Milly Johnson and Julie Caplin.

Purchase Link - https://geni.us/757PQB 

Author Bio – Helga Jensen is an award-winning British/Danish best-selling author and journalist. Helga holds a BA Hons in English Literature and Creative Writing, along with a Creative Writing MA from Bath Spa University. She is currently working on a PhD

Social Media Links –

www.twitter.com/HelgaJensenF

www.facebook.com/helgajensenfordeauthor

www.instgram.com/helgajensenauthor

Book Review #Hunted By Proxy #Manning Wolfe #Legal Thriller # Starpath Books, LLC Publishers #Crime #Book Tour

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

"Hunted By Proxy" by Manning Wolfe is a riveting legal thriller that thrusts readers into the heart-pounding world of Quinton Bell, a criminal defense attorney on the run. The novel opens with Quinton attempting to forge a new life in Houston, hoping to leave behind the dangerous adversaries that pursued him in his previous life. However, the past catches up with him in unexpected ways, setting off a chain of events that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The author skillfully weaves a narrative that is both suspenseful and thought-provoking. Quinton's struggle to maintain a semblance of normalcy while constantly looking over his shoulder creates a tension that permeates the entire story. Wolfe's portrayal of the protagonist's predicament is nuanced, allowing readers to empathize with Quinton as he grapples with the fear of exposure and the ever-present threat of a powerful and relentless adversary.

The plot unfolds seamlessly, with each chapter adding layers to the mystery of Quinton's pursuers. The inclusion of a mysterious note adds an intriguing element, keeping readers guessing about the true identity of those who wish him harm. The stakes are high, and the narrative is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers eagerly turning the pages.

Wolfe's writing is engaging, with a good balance of suspense, action, and character development. Quinton Bell is a well-crafted protagonist, and the supporting cast adds depth to the story. The author's legal background adds authenticity to the courtroom scenes, enhancing the overall realism of the novel.

As Quinton races against time, the tension escalates, and readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of danger, deception, and unexpected alliances. "Hunted By Proxy" is not just a legal thriller but a masterfully crafted tale of survival. Manning Wolfe has created a gripping narrative that explores the lengths to which one must go to escape a past that refuses to let go.

In conclusion, "Hunted By Proxy" is a must-read for fans of legal thrillers and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted suspense novel. Manning Wolfe delivers a compelling story with a protagonist whose resilience and wit make for an unforgettable journey. This novel will keep readers hooked from the first page to the last, and the lingering sense of danger will leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment in Quinton Bell's tumultuous life.

Book Details:

Genre: Legal Thriller
Published by: Starpath Books, LLC
Publication Date: January 2024
Number of Pages: 300
ISBN: B0CFWWCX7F
Series: Proxy Legal Thriller Series, Book 2
Book Links: Amazon | Goodreads

Author Bio:

MANNING WOLFE, an award-winning author and attorney residing in Austin, Texas, writes cinematic-style, smart, fast-paced thrillers and crime fiction. Manning was recently featured on Oxygen TV’s: Accident, Suicide, or Murder.
* Manning’s legal thriller series features Austin attorney Merit Bridges, including Dollar Signs, Music Notes, Green Fees, and Chinese Wall.
* Manning’s new Proxy Legal Thriller Series features Houston attorney Quinton Bell and includes: Dead By Proxy, Hunted By Proxy, and Alive By Proxy.
* Manning is co-author of Killer Set: Drop the Mic, and twelve additional Bullet Book Speed Reads.
As a graduate of Rice University and the University of Texas School of Law, Manning’s experience has given her a voyeur’s peek into some shady characters’ lives and a front-row seat to watch the good people who stand against them.

Catch Up With Manning Wolfe:
manningwolfe.com
Goodreads
BookBub – @ManningWolfe
Instagram – @manningwolfe
Twitter/X – @ManningWolfe
Facebook – @manning.wolfe

 

 

Tour Participants:

---

1. 01/15 Review @ Country Mamas With Kids

2. 01/17 Review @ Novels Alive

3. 01/18 Review @ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

4. 01/19 Review @ Why Not? Because I Said So Book Reviews

5. 01/24 Review @ reviewsbyrudra

6. 01/25 Review @ Novel Nerd Blog

7. 01/28 Review @ Catreader18

8. 01/30 Review @ Celticladys Reviews

9. 01/31 Review @ bookwormbecky1969

10. 02/01 Review @ Healing with A

11. 02/03 Review @ Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting

Book Review #Up from Dust: Martha’s Story (Women of the Way) #Bethany House Publishers #Heather Kaufman #Biblical Fiction #Christian Historical Fiction

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Heather Kaufman's "Up from Dust: Martha's Story" takes readers on a compelling journey through the pages of history, weaving a narrative of resilience, hope, and the indomitable spirit of a woman determined to rise above the challenges life throws at her. Released on January 23, 2024, this novel is a poignant addition to the Women of the Way series, showcasing Kaufman's skill in bringing historical fiction to life.

Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period, "Up from Dust" introduces readers to Martha, a character whose life becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Kaufman masterfully paints a vivid picture of the hardships faced by Martha and her community, grounding the narrative in the dust bowl era where survival was a daily struggle.

The novel unfolds with Martha confronting the harsh realities of the Dust Bowl, a time when economic hardship, environmental challenges, and personal tragedies converged to test the resilience of individuals and communities. Kaufman's prose captures the essence of Martha's character, making her journey relatable and inspiring as she navigates loss, adversity, and the pursuit of a better life.

One of the strengths of Kaufman's storytelling lies in her ability to breathe life into historical settings. The descriptive prose transports readers to Martha's world, allowing them to feel the gritty dust in the air, experience the weight of Martha's struggles, and celebrate her triumphs. The author's meticulous research is evident in the authenticity of the historical backdrop, enriching the narrative with a sense of time and place.

Martha's character is beautifully nuanced, evolving throughout the story, which adds a layer of authenticity to the novel. Her determination to overcome challenges, coupled with the support of her community and the bonds she forms, creates a compelling narrative arc that resonates with readers on a profound level.

"Up from Dust: Martha's Story" is more than a historical novel; it is a celebration of the resilience inherent in the human spirit. Kaufman's ability to balance the hardships of Martha's journey with moments of hope and triumph creates a narrative that is both emotionally impactful and inspiring. The novel serves as a tribute to the strength of women during challenging times and a reminder that, even in the darkest moments, the human spirit can rise above adversity.

In conclusion, Heather Kaufman's "Up from Dust: Martha's Story" is a beautifully crafted novel that seamlessly blends historical accuracy with a captivating narrative. Through Martha's experiences, readers are taken on a poignant journey of self-discovery, survival, and the enduring power of hope. This novel is a testament to Kaufman's storytelling prowess and a must-read for those who appreciate historical fiction that resonates with heart and authenticity.

Thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for an advance copy for my honest review

BOOK DESCRIPTION

"A biblical story with a heart for today's world, pulling out an array of joy and hope, sorrow and loss."--Mesu Andrews, award-winning author

"Taking us on an intriguing journey through heartbreak and healing, Heather Kaufman leads her readers directly to the joy of the empty tomb."--Connilyn Cossette, award-winning author

Martha of Bethany is no stranger to adversity. After her mother's untimely death, Martha shoulders the responsibility of raising her siblings--quiet and studious Lazarus, and wild and rambunctious Mary. She finds solace in friendship and the beginnings of first love, but just as Martha begins to imagine a new future, hardship strikes again and her dreams crumble into dust.

Ten years later, Martha's friend pleads for the new teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, to come and heal her husband. When Martha discovers that the carpenter-rabbi is connected to her past, she's not sure she can trust him with her future. But as he continues to perform miracles, the invitation to believe becomes harder to resist, renewing Martha's hardened heart, even as she faces an unknown future.

AUTHOR BIO

Heather Kaufman

Heather Kaufman lives in the Midwest with her husband and three children. 

She holds a BA from McKendree University and an MA from the University of Missouri—St. Louis. 

When not reading or writing, she can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee and exploring new parks with her family.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Publishers (January 23, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 352 pages

BOOK REVIEW #MURDER AT MEREWOOD HOSPITAL #MICHELLE SALTER #COZY CRIME #HISTORICAL #BOLDWOOD BOOKS PUBLISHER

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

In "Murder at Merewood Hospital," Michelle Salter skillfully transports readers to the aftermath of the Great War, where the scars of battle are still fresh, and a new danger lurks within the walls of Merewood Farm. Set against the backdrop of a quaint Hampshire village, this cozy crime novel unfolds with an atmospheric blend of historical richness and suspense.

The story opens in 1916, introducing Sister Helen Hopgood, a dedicated nurse tasked with caring for wounded soldiers at Merewood Farm, a temporary military hospital. Fast forward to 1919, and the war is over, leaving behind only five remaining patients in Helen's care. As the last ward faces closure, the shadows of the past loom large, and the specter of Nurse Taplin's murder casts a chilling aura over Merewood Manor. 

Joseph Wintringham, facing the necessity of selling the farm to save Merewood Manor, finds himself entangled in local superstitions and rumors. The belief in a curse, whether tied to Nurse Taplin or the war's tragic aftermath, adds a layer of intrigue that propels the narrative forward. As unnatural deaths unfold on Midsummer's Night, the suspense builds, and the question of whether the hospital is haunted or if a tangible threat exists becomes the crux of the mystery.

Salter's narrative is steeped in historical detail, immersing readers in the post-war era with authenticity. The characters, particularly Sister Helen, are well-drawn, each carrying their own burdens and secrets. The cozy crime genre, with its focus on community and character dynamics, is expertly woven into the historical context, providing a satisfying blend of intrigue and period atmosphere.

The plot unfolds with a measured pace, allowing readers to savor the rich tapestry of the setting and characters. The mystery at the heart of the novel is compelling, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged until the final revelation. Helen's quest to uncover the truth adds an emotional depth to the story, making her a relatable and determined protagonist.

"Murder at Merewood Hospital" is a captivating addition to the cozy crime genre, offering readers a well-crafted mystery with historical resonance. Michelle Salter's ability to seamlessly merge the post-war setting, mysterious deaths, and a touch of the supernatural makes for an engrossing read. For fans of historical cozy mysteries, this novel delivers a satisfying blend of suspense, period detail, and a compelling whodunit.

Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for an advance copy for my honest review.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

The patients survived the Great War only to face a new danger…

​

In 1916, Sister Helen Hopgood was sent with a team of nurses to care for wounded soldiers at Merewood Farm, a temporary military hospital in Hampshire.

​

Now the war is over, only five patients remain – and she is the only nurse. The last ward must close, and Helen is doing all she can to find new homes for the injured servicemen.

​

Joseph Wintringham has to sell the farm to keep Merewood Manor. But since the murder of Nurse Taplin, locals believe the place is cursed - perhaps by the doomed nurse or by the patients who perished from their war wounds.

​

Is the hospital haunted? Or is someone very real behind the unnatural deaths that begin on Midsummer’s Night 1919?

​

Can Helen discover the truth before it’s too late..?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MICHELLE SALTER

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/MurderHospitalSocial

Author Bio –

Michelle Salter writes historical cosy crime set in Hampshire, where she lives, and inspired by real-life events in 1920s Britain. The first book in her Iris Woodmore series, Death at Crookham Hall, draws on her interest in the aftermath of the Great War and the suffragette movement.

 

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleSalterWriter

Twitter https://twitter.com/MichelleASalter

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michellesalter_writer/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MichelleSalterNews 

Bookbub profile: Michelle Salter Books - BookBub

Publication Date: 14th January 2024

Book Review #Zero Kill #Publisher ‏ : ‎ Head of Zeus -- an Aries Book #M.K Hill #Rachel's Random Resources # Suspense Thrillers # Psychological Thrillers

 MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

In M.K. Hill's heart-pounding action thriller, "Zero Kill," readers are introduced to Elsa Zero, a seemingly ordinary single mother whose life takes a sharp turn into dangerous and mysterious. What begins as a seemingly normal evening with a marriage proposal quickly descends into a pulse-pounding race for survival that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the final page.

Elsa Zero, our unconventional heroine, is not your typical single mom. As an ex-deep cover agent, she possesses a unique set of skills that make her the most dangerous person on Earth, a fact she must come to terms with as her world unravels. The story kicks into high gear at midnight, thrusting Elsa into a nightmarish scenario where she must navigate a web of danger to protect her children and uncover a deadly secret that has made her a target for every intelligence agency in the world.

Hill's writing is a masterclass in crafting tension and suspense. The novel is a relentless roller coaster ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing at every corner. The blend of action, humor, and intrigue creates a dynamic narrative that is both thrilling and entertaining.

Elsa Zero emerges as a compelling protagonist, a force to be reckoned with. Her resilience, wit, and determination to protect her family add depth to the character, making her someone readers can root for and admire. The plot unfolds at a breakneck pace, with Elsa's journey leading to a series of gripping and unpredictable encounters.

The novel's unique blend of tension, twists, and humor sets it apart in the action thriller genre. Fans of Killing Eve, Lee Child, and enthusiasts of gripping cinematic experiences like Nobody and Hunted will find "Zero Kill" to be a breath of fresh air. M.K. Hill has successfully crafted an exhilarating narrative that combines high-stakes action with a memorable and unconventional protagonist, making "Zero Kill" a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling escape into a world of danger and intrigue.

Thanks to #Zero Kill #Publisher ‏ : ‎ Head of Zeus -- an Aries Book #M.K Hill #Rachel's Random Resources # Suspense Thrillers # Psychological Thrillers for an advance copy for my honest review.

Zero Kill

A TIMES BEST NEW THRILLER PICK

'Runs at breakneck speed through a dark and dangerous universe populated with characters who are never what they seem' KATHLEEN KENT, author of Black Wolf

'A perfect thriller - page-turning excitement, expert plotting, a good dose of wit, and above all a fierce heroine you can't get enough of.' ASIA MACKAY, author of Killing It

Meet Elsa Zero: Bad neighbour. Single mother. Ex-deep cover agent.

And right now, the most dangerous person on Earth.

When Elsa's dull but dedicated boyfriend proposes in a packed restaurant, she doesn't think her evening can get any worse. But as the clock strikes midnight, her world is turned upside down.

Suddenly Elsa is running for her life, trying to keep her children safe, and desperate to discover what the hell is going on.

Every intelligence agency in the world wants her dead because she's in possession of a deadly secret – she just has to stay alive long enough to figure out what it is.

But this is Elsa Zero we're talking about. And it's a very bad idea to get on her wrong side.

Bursting with tension, twists and humour, this is a brilliantly unique action-thriller perfect for fans of Killing Eve, Lee Child and people who loved watching Nobody and Hunted.

Purchase Link - https://geni.us/ZKPBRRR

Aries/Head of Zeus Social Handles

 Twitter: @AriesFiction

Facebook: Aries Fiction

Instagram: @headofzeus

TikTok: @headofzeus

Website: http://www.headofzeus.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR M.K. Hill worked as a journalist and an award-winning music radio producer before becoming a full-time writer. He's written the Sasha Dawson series, the Ray Drake series, and the highly-acclaimed psychological thriller One Bad Thing. He lives in London. Visit him at www.mkhill.uk or find him on Twitter @markhillwriter Social Media Links –  AUTHOR Social Handles Twitter: @markhillwriter Facebook: M.K. Hill Author Website: https://www.mkhill.uk/

 

Book Review #The Girl From Provence #Helen Fripp #Bookouture #Historical Fiction WW2 #Book on Tour

 MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

"The Girl from Provence" by Helen Fripp is a captivating and emotionally charged tale set in the South of France during the tumultuous year of 1942. Through the eyes of the resilient twenty-one-year-old Lilou, the novel unfolds against the backdrop of the Nazi occupation of Provence, bringing to life the sacrifices and struggles of ordinary people forced to navigate the complexities of wartime.

Lilou's idyllic life selling lavender honey in the village square is shattered when the Nazis arrive, and her best friend is cruelly taken away simply for being Jewish. Horrified by the injustice, Lilou makes a silent vow to sacrifice everything to fight for what is right. As the village becomes divided, Lilou becomes entwined with the French resistance, taking on dangerous tasks like smuggling hidden messages in fresh-baked loaves of bread and meeting Allied pilots in moonlit fields.

Fripp skillfully weaves a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering if Kristian, a blue-eyed German soldier, is friend or foe. Lilou lives in constant fear that he might discover her involvement with the resistance. The tension escalates when she is assigned her most crucial task: hiding a frightened little boy named Eliot in her farmhouse.

Eliot, clutching a treasured children's book, becomes the center of the story. His silence conceals a story of stars, planets, and the night sky. Lilou soon realizes that Eliot's innocent facade may hold knowledge capable of altering the course of the war. The stakes rise when Kristian arrives at her farm in search of hidden Jewish families, putting Eliot in grave danger.

Fripp's storytelling is both stunning and heartbreaking, portraying the incredible sacrifices ordinary people make during wartime. Lilou's internal conflict, as she grapples with trust, loyalty, and the desire to protect those she loves, adds depth to the narrative. The novel explores the human capacity for resilience and compassion in the face of adversity.

For fans of Fiona Valpy and Rhys Bowen, "The Girl from Provence" is a must-read. Helen Fripp delivers a poignant and beautifully crafted novel that delves into the complexities of wartime existence, showcasing the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope even in the darkest times.

Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture Publishers for an advance copy for my honest review.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

South of France, 1942. Twenty-one-year-old Lilou is selling lavender honey in the village square when the Nazis arrive in her beloved Provence. And when her best friend is dragged away simply for being Jewish, Lilou is horrified. As the village begins to take sides, Lilou secretly swears through angry sobs that she'll sacrifice everything to fight for what's right.

Drawn in to the French resistance, soon Lilou is smuggling hidden messages in fresh-baked loaves of bread and meeting Allied pilots in remote moonlit fields. She lives in fear that Kristian, a blue-eyed German soldier, knows about her work - but does he keep her secrets because he is undercover, too?

Everything changes when Lilou is given her most important task: to keep a frightened little boy, Eliot, hidden safe in her farmhouse. All alone in the world, Eliot refuses to speak as he clutches his treasured children's book close to his chest. Inside is a beautiful story of stars, planets and the night sky. But why is this innocent child the one, among thousands, who Lilou must save?

When she is told Eliot's book will help her decipher coded messages, Lilou knows he must have knowledge that could change the course of the war. But the day Kristian arrives at her farm searching for hidden Jewish families, Lilou is terrified that Eliot is in more danger than ever...

Can Lilou trust the one person who could tear her world apart? And will she ever help Eliot find his way home?

A totally stunning and heartbreaking read about the incredible sacrifices ordinary people are forced to make each day in wartime. Perfect for fans of Fiona Valpyand and Rhys Bowen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - HELEN FRIPP

• 
  
• About the author:
• 
  
• I love delving into the past and uncovering new stories, and in my writing, the tiniest historical detail can spark an idea for a whole chapter. My female characters rail against the social constraints to which they are subject and often achieve great success, but they are of course flawed and human, like the rest of us. It’s the motivations, flaws, loves and every-day lives of my characters that I love to bring life, against sweeping historical backdrops - and I will find any excuse to take off and research a captivating location or person for my next story.
• 
  
• My first novel is set in the Champagne region in France, and I’m currently working on my next one, set in late eighteenth century Paris. I spent a lot of time in France as a child, have lived in Paris and spent a year with my family in a fishing village in South West France, so that’s where my books have ended up being set so far. Who knows where next!
• 
  
• Author social media 
• 
  
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/helenfripp
• 
  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helen.frippauthor.3
• 
  
• Author newsletter sign up: https://www.bookouture.com/helen-fripp
• 
  

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bookouture (15 January 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 306 pages