The Orphan's Secret by Shirley Dickson

 

With the war raging, Lily has learned not to take life for granted. In a time of such tragedy, every day is a gift. Her husband is a soldier, fighting to save their country, and she prays that she will survive – to one day welcome him home.

One sweltering July night, bombs rain down. Lily and her dear friend Ethel, who is nine months pregnant, seek refuge in a shelter. Miraculously, a baby girl is born to the sound of ear-splitting shrieks and explosions in the distance. Once the raid quietens, Lily races into the house to find the newborn a blanket. But then the unthinkable happens, planes thundering right over the rooftops…

When Lily rouses, finding herself amongst broken glass and crumbled brick, she is devastated to discover that Ethel has been killed – leaving little Joy behind. With tears rolling down her face, Lily makes a split-second decision.

To save the orphaned child, Lily must tell a heartbreaking lie, a secret that she holds close to her chest for years. But when the truth comes out, whose lives will be destroyed? And will she ever be forgiven?

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About The Author

 

Shirley says she is a prime example of ‘never give up on your dream.’

Shirley is an international bestseller. She signed with Bookouture in 2018 and has written to date three stirring World War Two historical novels.

She lives under the big skies of Northumberland with her husband, family and lucky black cat.

She wrote her first short story at the age of ten for a magazine competition. She didn't win but was hooked on writing for a lifetime. For many years she wrote poetry and short stories and got many rejection slips.

Success followed when Shirley decided to get serious about writing novels after she retired.

Shirley would like to say a huge thank you to her readers, reviewers and book bloggers for their support.

Follow Shirley on her Facebook ‘Shirley Dickson Author’ page.

 

My Review

 
What a compelling page turner, the author pulled me in and didn’t let go.
You’ll find yourself living in WWII England, rationing, bomb shelters, bombs dropping. At first we walk with Lilly, we see her finding love and then her husband is sent off to fight, and how she does her part. Not an easy time, but she is a light to so many people, and yes, she makes some lifelong friends.
How Lilly handles the loss and found of her baby, follows wishes, and the return of her husband. Such heartwarming and I think I would have done exactly as she does!
Life is not smooth, but keep reading right to the end, and keep the tissues handy.
Such a great read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bookouture, and was not required to give a positive review.