The Light Over London

By: Julia Kelly

Narrated by: Lucy Brownhill

Reminiscent of The Nightingale and Lilac Girls, this moving World War II historical novel follows two women—one uncovering the past, one living through it—in a story of courage, love, and resilience during the London Blitz.

It’s easier for Cara Hargraves to bury herself in the past than to confront the present, which is why working for a gruff but brilliant antiques dealer is perfect. While clearing out an estate, she pries open an old tin that holds the relics of a lost relationship: an unfinished diary from World War II and a photo of a young woman in uniform. Captivated by the hauntingly beautiful diary, Cara begins her search for the author, never guessing that it might reveal her own family’s wartime secrets.

In 1941, nineteen-year-old Louise Keene feels trapped in her wartime Cornish village, waiting for a wealthy suitor her mother has chosen for her to return from the war. But when Louise meets Flight Lieutenant Paul Bolton, a dashing RAF pilot stationed at a local base, everything changes. And changes again when Paul’s unit is deployed without warning.

Desperate for a larger life, Louise joins the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service, becoming one of Britain’s courageous gunner girls defending London during the Blitz. As bombs fall on London, she and the other gunner girls show their bravery and resilience while performing their duties during deadly air raids. The only thing that gets Louise through those dark, bullet-filled nights is knowing that she and Paul will be together when the war is over. But when a bundle of her letters to him are returned unopened, she learns that wartime romance can have a much darker side.

“Sweeping, stirring, and heartrending in all the best ways, this tale of one of WWII’s courageous, colorful, and enigmatic Gunner Girls will take your breath away” (Kristin Harmel). Perfect for fans of historical women’s fiction and dual-timelne novels about bravery and the bonds between women.

The character development and storyline was very good.

Lucy Brown Hill did an excellent job narrating this book. Truly one of the best audibles I’ve had to date.

Not my cup of tea

The first books I listened to by this author might be her later stories, the murder mysteries, so, that could be why I was disappointed by this book. Specifically, the focus on a girl boy story type chick lit romance, with a WW 2 background. Even the modern present day main character was focused on her relationships, past and future prospects. The female characters weren’t strong and independent, but rather, their thoughts and hopes and conversations were about their relationships with men.

Looking for a Happy Ending?

It was an interesting turn about from modern day to a period of history. Enjoyed story line; although, you knew what was coming, it has a sweet sentiment. Enjoyed overall.

love!!!

loved this book couldn't put it down thank you, great powerfully story, and the narrator was also great

History, Mystery, and Romance weaved into a great story!

This book brought to life WWII in England. Well done. This is performed with skill that made the Audio version a delight to hear.