The Book of Lost Children by Jenny O'Brien

 

A wartime nurse risks everything to protect mothers and babies in Nazi-occupied Guernsey. Decades later, a hidden record reveals a devastating family truth. Based on a remarkable true story of one woman’s extraordinary courage.

Guernsey, 1943. As German forces tighten their grip on the Channel Islands, nurse Evelyn Nightingale guards a dangerous secret. Within the walls of the Emergency Hospital, she's hidden three babies from the enemy – children who would otherwise face a terrible fate. When a traumatized French woman arrives to give birth, Evelyn must risk everything – with consequences that will echo through the generations.

Dublin, 2018. Still reeling from her mother's death, Kitty White is struggling to keep her family's antique shop afloat when a desperate woman arrives with an old violin to sell. Hidden in its dusty case, Kitty discovers a mysterious list of names that shatters her father's composure. Her search for answers leads her to Guernsey, where she is about to uncover a long-buried secret about her family.

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About The Author

 

Welcome to Jenny’s Author Page.

Jenny O’Brien writes complex thrillers and heartbreaking historical fiction, as well as intriguing romances. Silent Cry, initially self published, topped the Amazon kindle chart in both the UK and the USA. Most of her books have followed suit.

Jenny has over 40 years experience as a qualified nurse. She turned to creative writing as a hobby when her children were born.

Born in Ireland, she now lives in Guernsey with her husband and children.

Her latest book, The Book of Lost Children, will be published April 11.

 

My Review

What a compelling page turner, based on fact, but fiction, so we put faces on the people involved.
A dual time read between 2018 and 1940, from Dublin to Guernsey, from current time to WWII.
When a women brings a violin into their store, she is intrigued with the instrument, and never in her wildest dreams did she realize the impact it will make on her family.
The 1940's is a time when the evil invading Europe is occupying Guernsey, and life tries to go on. Working as a nurse Evelyn Nightingale is at the Emergency Hospital, doing work in most of the wards. She is such a bright light, at such a dark time! Shortages everywhere, including at the hospital. We are there to see what a blessing and the sacrifices she makes to help those in need.
I loved that the author brings this story a full circles, so yes, the answers come, and we are there for the outcome!
I received this book through Net Galley and Storm Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review