Hmm, I’m not sure how I feel about this story. It follows a woman after The Great War, who married, got pregnant, and moved with her husband to America. They struggled at first, but he eventually gets a well paying (though not legal) job, and things start to look up for them. But his philandering and dishonest ways cause problems. Which then leads us down a whole different rabbit hole with another set of characters. Then it just ends, with the premise that another book will follow with these characters. I will not go out of my way to look for the sequel, to be honest.

Roberta Kagan’s historical fiction novel, “The Last Lullaby,” explores mother-daughter bonds and women’s sacrifices. It’s a story of love, friendship, and heartbreak, but the uneven pacing, predictable plot points, and underdeveloped characters hinder the reading experience. Though it’s the first book in a series, I doubt I’ll read part 2.

Set between the wars, it tell of Lily and her journey to the U.S.A with her American husband and the promise of a better life there. However things don't quite go to plan and then we switch back to the rise of Nazism in Europe. I didn't realise it was the first book in a series so felt a wee bit down at the end but then elated as there would be another one!
Thanks t{ Netgalley for the ARC to review.

Though I found this book a bit difficult to follow at times, I enjoyed the story. As if world wars weren't enough, the added hardships faced by families during this period were immense. I was drawn in cover and originally thought the book was going to be set during WWII, but it spans a much longer period. Families had to make tough decisions, many leaving loved ones behind. This book offers a fascinating look into what some went through in their struggle to survive. I appreciate NetGalley and the publisher for providing the ARC ebook that I read and reviewed. All opinions are my own.

Adult historical fiction, set in the period of time between the two World Wars.
It was an interesting book, for the most part. The two children, Nick and Mimi, are little heart-stealers!
I must admit, though, through a good portion I kept hoping that the “point” of the novel would be reached. Event after event would occur, but they didn’t really create a flowing plot. Towards the latter quarter I looked at the percentage left and thought that the conclusion could not be successfully reached. At the end, the author explained that this was the first in a series, so that made a bit more sense.
When the other books are released, I’ll probably read them, if only to follow what happens to Nick and Mimi.

*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*

Rating 2.5☆
I wanted to like this book so much however unfortunately it wasn't for me.

The cover and blurb were misleading for this book, 'The National Socialist German Workers Party' is only mentioned in the final 40-50 pages by a new character. Then, Chapter 58 (of 64) Hitler and the 'Nazi Party' are mentioned. I spent several moments in the book checking the blurb because of this.
I felt the dialogue at times was a bit stiff, reminding me more of an awkward read through of a script, and the timing was up and down throughout.
However, the author does explore some powerful issues of the era. The immigration of Jews to America, men struggling to find work after the war, male dominated marriages, and discomfort of the imminant WWII. Although a lot to cover in one book, I was happy to see such a powerful representation of the times.
At the end, the author says this is part 1 of a new series. It would be interesting to see how this series works out, but it's not something I'm likely to pick up in a hurry.

Between the world wars in France, Lily meets and marries Joe. Their best chance at a future is to live in America...or so Joe says. Lily's heart breaks as she leaves her mother behind, not knowing whether she would see her again. She carries a cherished piece of jewelry and memories as she sails to New York. Her bruised heart is shattered even further once she realizes her choices have lasting consequences. Joe hires Gloria to care for their young child, Mimi. The two women become fast friends, united by trauma and shared experiences. But what brings them together drives them apart. New York's underbelly exposes itself and it isn't pretty. Glimpses of joy are few and far between and waves of sorrow crash around them.

Vivid sadness is painted beautifully and the main twist took my breath away in the best possible way. It was very easy to be swept into the story along with the characters, feeling what they felt. I was in the mood for a poignant and moving story and that is precisely what happened. I really, really liked this novel and look forward to the next installation.

4.75

The Last Lullaby is an emotionally charged historical fiction set in the turbulent period between the two world wars. We follow Lily who makes the heart-wrenching decision shortly after giving birth to her daughter, to leave her mother in Paris and travel to America with her husband Joe. Joe doesn't turn out to be the sweet kind man he was presumed to be in Paris.

In The Last Lullaby, we see women struggle for safety and emotional healing in the face of domestic abuse. Joe is not the safe haven Lily had hoped for. She builds a friendship with Gloria and her son. Gloria eventually becomes the nanny. Their friendship runs deep. Something tragic happens and we see just how far Gloria will go for Lily.

This book will have you in your feels. It is so emotionally charged and perfect for anyone who loves messy historical fiction love stories. I absolutely recommend The Last Lullaby by Roberta Kagan.

Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review The Last Lullaby by Roberta Kagan.

She didn't mean to put a stain upon her family name or herself but sometimes love makes you do foolish things.

Lily Levin has lost her father and she must do all she can to make sure her and her mother survive. She is completely taken by the American soldier who seems to be completely taken by her. Soon she is leaving France and her mother Chloe behind to sail across the world with her baby girl and new husband to a foreign world where nothing can prepare her for the new life. A life that she thought might be a little easier but is nothing as she expected.

Lily learns very quickly that her husband is not the man she thought he was and she longs for her home and mother fiercely. She happens to meet Gloria and their bond is instantaneous. She can't believe how much a chance meeting can change both their lives. Sadly, all good things must come to an end and as the tides change you sometimes find strength where you thought none were possible.

This book is very deep and emotional and gives you a small glimpse into post WWI and pre WWII France and Germany as well as prohibition and the mob life in the USA.

I did not know going in that there would be another book and now I cannot wait for the next installment.

**Received ARC through NetGalley. Voluntarily reviewed.

As a devoted reader of Roberta Kagan's historical fiction, I can wholeheartedly say that The Last Lullaby is a masterpiece that will stay with you long after the final page.

Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Europe, the novel follows Lily Levin as she embarks on a journey from Paris to New York with her young daughter, Mimi. The story delves into the complexities of identity, the bonds between mothers and daughters, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of impending darkness.

Kagan's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring the era to life, immersing readers in the challenges and triumphs of the characters. The emotional depth of the narrative is palpable, with moments that will bring tears to your eyes and others that will fill you with hope.

If you're a fan of historical fiction that combines rich character development with poignant storytelling, The Last Lullaby is a must-read. It's a testament to Kagan's talent and her ability to craft stories that resonate deeply with readers.

I had some problems with this story. It was entertaining but I don’t think the title and specially the cover are fitting. The cover would fit the sequel better I think. From Paris to New York and back to Paris, a lot happened and the story will continue.
I give it 3,5 stars but I’m curious about the rest of the series.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sending me this ARC, this review is my own opinion.

A Heartfelt Story of Motherhood, Friendship, and Courage”

The Last Lullaby is a beautifully written, emotionally rich novel that explores the bonds between mothers and daughters, the strength of friendship, and the sacrifices women make for those they love.

The story begins in Paris, 1923, as Lily leaves her mother and homeland behind to start anew in America. With her baby in one arm and a cherished family heirloom in the other, she steps into an unknown world. The Yiddish lullabies passed down by her mother are her only comfort—and they become a symbolic thread woven throughout the story.

In New York, Lily’s friendship with Gloria is one of the most moving parts of the novel. Their bond feels authentic and powerful, showing how chosen family can become just as vital as blood ties. But the heart of this book lies in the impossible choices the characters must make when the world begins to fall apart.

While the pacing slowed a bit in the middle, the emotional payoff is worth it. The historical backdrop adds weight and urgency, especially as the shadows of war begin to creep in.

A tender, bittersweet novel that lingers long after the final page. Recommended for fans of historical fiction centered on strong women, family, and resilience.

this story packs an emotional punch and then some. it was so interesting to read through the times in this book. we or certainly i havent read many books that span over this time in between the wars so well. and also the time for those woman at home. who are still human and having to make decisions, are still struck by the choices they make. and are then worsened by those they experience along the way, some are now a new kind of evil.
in Paris Lily is leaving all she knows behind(dont do it you can now hear me shouting!) she is leaving for America with her young child and husband. its a new and uncertain world for her. its is there though that she forms a bond with Gloria a young carer. and its between these two that there is a blossoming relationship of support and loyalty thats instantly wonderful to read.
but this is not where this story ends. this is not even where the hardships stops. in fact much more is to come. and impossible choices are to be made. there are sacrifices of a mother so hard you can almost feel it pull on your own heart. and there are testing times for these woman ahead and you all at once want to scoop them up and stop it from doing so.
a really really believable and yet unbelievable books simply because it can just feel so unfair. but this is a book to read and be kept reading long over the time you know you should stop!

The Last Lullaby by Roberta Kagan

Set in post war Paris, Lily and her mother struggle financially after death of Lily’s father, Lily is swept off her feet by an American soldier. He is kind, charming, handsome and generous. When she discovers she is pregnant, she thinks her life as an unwed mother. But like a dream come true, Joe offers marriage and a new beginning together in America. However, America isn’t the promised land she had hoped for and Joe turns out to be far from her Prince Charming.

The novel offers compelling similarities between the economic hardships of Paris and NYC, while exploring the hopes and dreams of people trying to build better lives for themselves and all the obstacles to success. The story highlights the limited choices and lack of agency for women, and their dependence on the decency of men for their survival; women falling in love with men who will not live up to their expectations and continually disappoint them.

Personally, I prefer strong FMC who challenge societal constraints, so I was somewhat disappointed with Lily’s forgiving and accepting nature. That said, her kindness and compassion will resonate with other readers.

The second half of the novel shifts back to Europe, just as Germany is beginning to build towards WWII. It sets the stage for the next instalment of this series with the foreshadowing of another potentially disastrous relationship.

This is book will appeal to readers who appreciate stories of women persevering through hardship, and navigating difficult relationships with grace.

I normally love historical fiction, but I had trouble with this one.

I did like that the timeframe was set between the two WWs, but there was a lot that probably could have been better. Although I liked the female characters, there could have been more development and growth. The male characters weren't really likable at all. I couldn't truly get into the story and I feel that the pacing was one of the big issues, plus the inconsistencies within the story. The story could have been better if there had been more showing, it would have dragged me more into the story, now it feels more as if someone is telling me the story without any depth. Another thing, but I think that is more personal, is working with a ‘cliffhanger’ in historical fiction…I am not a fan. I had a lot of unanswered questions and I didn't like the ending. Unfortunately, this wasn't the book for me.
2.5 ⭐️rounded up

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, NetGalley, and Storm Publishing for this copy.

I went into this book thinking it was going to be about WWII and the Holocaust type however to my disappointment this story was more of a historical tale spanning over decades with multiple different time switches and characters. It was a little hard to follow and not at all what I was expecting. While I don't think that I am the perfect person to review this book because generally this type of novel is not one that would draw my attention or interest I do appreciate the powerful feeling that the author managed to give to her characters. Our main character Lilly has it rough pregnant and unmarried is not the best thing for her at that time. Not only that but the father of her baby is a soldier, who lives in America instead of in Paris where she is. When she decides to take a leap of faith and return to his unknown country, baby in tow, that is when her whole world starts to change, not just culturally, but also her relationship with the father, Joe, and this distain she feels towards her from his family. When Lilly meets Gloria she suddenly develops an instant and strong friendship. Gloria seems to be the light that Lilly needs in her life and the two women are inseparable. There was so much going on in this book that at times I felt more overwhelmed instead of emersed in the story at times. I did like the flow of the book and while it takes a while to get into it once you do it really takes a strong hold on you. I liked the flow of this book but I liked how it was written in third person the best I feel that this gave the author the best way to really portray all of the hardships that each character was going through. I liked how the author showed multiple different sides to each of our characters. So while you feel one way towards a character you the get their perspective so you understand what they are hiding and why they are acting like they are. I liked how the reader was introduced to all of the characters in this story it was almost like you get one a new person plays a major part and then we follow that character and so on. I loved this because it gave many different characters and back stories and side stories without being confusing to the reader. This was a very fascinating read and one that im very pleased to have been able to check out.

A gripping read from the first page to the last. Wonderfully written with believable characters and an intriguing story line. Wonderful!

There was a frustrating end to this book. The story was developed nicely holding your attention. The characters are great, giving you a sense of identity to any of them. However, we were promised a difficult, life changing decision and while it is easy to figure what it may be, you will have to wait until the next book to find out what it is.

The Last Lullaby tells the emotional story of Lily Levin. Lily departs for America in 1923 with her infant daughter and husband, leaving the only place she has ever known. She carries with her the lullabies from her childhood and works towards a new life in New York. Lily finds an unexpected friendship, however that connection is tested by a tragedy. Hard decisions have to be made and risks have to be weighed. I really enjoyed the perspective this story told.

Brilliant and absolutely enthralling. Couldn’t stop reading. Really hope there will be another book to follow