England, 1953. An emotional and heart-breaking story about children tragically orphaned by the war, and the woman who is determined to save them, whatever it takes.
When Clara Newton became House Mother of Shilling Grange Orphanage, it was only supposed to be temporary, a job to help piece her life back together again after the war had torn it apart. But five years on, Shilling Grange is more than just a job, it's her calling. The orphans have given her a reason to live again, as has her handsome war hero neighbour Ivor, who is now her dashing fianc.
As Clara starts to plan her perfect wedding, she is shocked to discover that the village expects her to leave Shilling Grange once she is married. They can't imagine how she could possibly be a good housewife while working full time at the orphanage. But Clara is horrified at the idea of deserting her orphans who have no one else in the world.
Clara starts to consider who could possibly replace her if she left. Who would take care of precious Peg who has never spoken a word or known love from anyone but Clara? And who would protect timid Jonathan from his life changing secret that only Clara knows?
But when a storm causes a catastrophic flood that risks the life of Ivor and the children, Clara is suddenly on the brink of losing everything once more. In this final heart-wrenching book in the series, will Clara and Ivor finally make it down the aisle? And will Clara find the strength to save the orphanage and stop it from falling into the wrong hands?
An utterly tear-jerking and unforgettable historical novel, set in the aftermath of World War Two. Perfect for fans of Before We Were Yours, Diney Costeloe and The Orphan Sisters.
What readers are saying about Lizzie Page:
'So moving... just melted my heart... Heartbreaking, funny and so enjoyable from the start to finish... took my breath away wholeheartedly.' NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐