
Member Reviews

"The Wartime Mother" takes place starting in 1941. Francine is an 11 year old girl who has lost her mother, younger sister and brothers in a bombing. Her father is missing and not known as dead or alive. Francine is in need of someone to take care of her. She is first fostered by an elderly man Mr. Cohen. She grows to love the old man and his cat but when Mr. Cohen dies she has to be placed in a new foster home. She is sent to live with Winnie who lives above a pub that is owned by her husband { who is away and fighting in the War} the pub is called "the Castle" Francine enjoys living in the Castle and turns out to be a pretty helper in the Pub. Over the next fews years there are tragedies when Winnie's husband dies in the War. Francine is dealing the hatred by a bully teacher because she is Jewish.
this is a good story about characters trying to survive during World War 2. The book goes from 1941 to about 1955. I liked this book. It has good characters in Winnie and Francine. the author does a good job writing about what surviving during World War 2 and coming together to help each other.

Such a delightful read ! I have loved this novel. The characters are brilliantly defined, their community is so warm and pulls you to The Castle (without the h) pub. I felt I was there with them all and it felt good!
Lizzie Page masterfully writes heartwarming novels. The storyline pulls at your heart, the plot is lively and entertaining, and the characters are more than likeable. Wit also colours this novel (as well as in her other novels!). What I also enjoyed in this novel, is that I learned quite a bit about public house regulations during WWII which I was not aware of. This was interesting!
I highly recommend this novel that brings (warming and cosy) light into a dark period of time.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.