When We Were Brave: A completely gripping and emotional WW2 historical novel

The face of the woman in the photograph was tilted upwards as if enjoying the sunshine just for a moment even as the wreckage of the bombed-out street lay behind her... 1944 Cornwall: Blinded by love Vivienne Hamilton eloped to Paris with a Nazi prisoner-of-war never to be seen again. A disgrace to her family her name would not be mentioned by any of her relatives for over 75 years.Present day London: When Sophie discovers a photograph of her great aunt Vivi from World War Two it throws her into a world of confusion. Because as she learns about this secret relative she quickly realises that the photograph doesnt fit with her familys story. It shows Vivi leaving an address associated with a spy network in London - a place she had no reason to be - and it is dated right before she disappeared.Meanwhile Sophies own life feels as blasted and bombed as the blitzed city in the photograph shes looking at. Her beautiful daughter - as full of joy and wild energy as Vivi had apparently once been - is gone; and Sophies heart has been left broken into pieces.Retreating to the family home in rural Cornwall to seek solace from her pain and the feelings of guilt that she could have done more to protect her daughter Sophie finds herself becoming obsessed with Vivis life.But nothing can prepare Sophie for what she is about to uncover - the story of a woman who risked everything for the person she loved the most; and a secret family history that could be the key to Sophies own future.A powerful haunting and unforgettable read about love heartbreak and betrayal set in Second World War Britain and France. Perfect for fans of The Nightingale Under a Scarlet Sky and My Name is Eva.Readers love Suzanne Kelman: If only there were more than 5 stars to give I would not hesitate... Heartbreaking and inspiring... the pages turn quickly... I know I will think often of this book. Goodreads Reviewer 5 starsA fantastic novel... Historical fiction at its best. Characters that you fall in love with a story you will hate to end. NetGalley ReviewerI loved everything about this book the story the characters... Such an emotional story. Goodreads Reviewer 5 starsCaptivating and emotional... well researched and beautifully written. Goodreads Reviewer 5 starsLoved it!!!... It was hard to put down. NetGalley ReviewerHaving read A View Across the Rooftops I was hooked on this FANTASTIC author. When We Were Brave is another OUTSTANDING piece of fantastic writing... I have nothing but total admiration for this author. Goodreads Reviewer 5 starsI finished it in a day... Cant wait to see what the author comes up with next. Goodreads Reviewer 5 starsA heartbreaking tale of war love loss betrayal and courage... Wonderful. Goodreads Reviewer 5 starsI truly enjoyed every aspect of this book... This book will stay with me. Goodreads Reviewer 5 stars