Blitz Spirit at Harbour House by Fenella J Miller #Review
September 1940
As the new housekeeper at Harbour House, Lily Turner and her teenage daughter Daphne have forged a resilient life since Lily’s husband Patrick abandoned them. But as war rages, Patrick, now vital to the war effort, is dispatched to Wivenhoe shipyard, forcing him to confront his past—and Lily—once more.
He's no longer the reckless boy who deserted his family; hardened by the years, he’s determined to make amends. Yet, for Lily, the scars of abandonment run deep, and forgiveness is a luxury she's not sure she can afford. But she finds this new version of Patrick intriguing nonetheless..
With the Blitz intensifying and German bombers pounding Britain, life is precarious. When Patrick, Lily, and Daphne are thrust together amidst an air raid, the roar of bombs forces a stark realization: in war's shadow, life is for living, and past regrets are a burden too heavy to carry.
My Thoughts
This fourth in the Harbour House series has all the period detail you would expect and gives you a good insight into domestic life in England in 1940. Rationing, blackouts and war damage have all become part of the inhabitants' lives. The three generations are each experiencing the home front in their own way. The older Robys have health problems to contend with and the parents in the family are still busy with home and work. I am always surprised at the level of responsibility that the children, especially Emily are given and their reactions place them firmly within the time.
As well as the Robys, the story centres around a lower class family. Lily is the housekeeper at Harbour House and estranged from her husband, George, she has worked hard to bring up Daphne, her daughter. When George is billeted to Lily's house, the past comes pouring in. You find that the preconception you may have had of George may be inaccurate and Lily has to decide how far she is prepared to let George back into their lives. Her reputation is important to her but she also takes into account Daphne's wishes as well. As per the name of the story, the effects of the Blitz reaches Lily's family showing the dangers for ordinary people at the time. Some children are evacuated. By the end of the story, you learn of a life changing event for young Emily which sets up nicely future storylines as she grows up.
In short: keep calm and carry on
About the Author
Fenella J. Miller is the bestselling writer of over eighteen historical sagas. She also has a passion for Regency romantic adventures and has published over fifty to great acclaim.
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Thanks to Fenella J Miller, Boldwood Books and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour.
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