The heartwarming and moving new Wartime Midwives story of three brave women’s fight to protect their shelter for mothers and their children . . . Perfect for fans of Katie Flynn, Nancy Revell and Call the MidwifeLake District, 1942. The women at Mary Vale Mother and Baby Home must pull together during their darkest hour . . .But Sybil would rather be anywhere else. She hoped to spend the season in London when an unexpected pregnancy soon put an end to those plans.While poor Rosie arrives with her two children in tow – their lives torn apart after their house was bombed.And when new midwife Edith joins it’s clear she has her own secrets to hide.Then one day Mary Vale faces the ultimate threat – requisition by the army – and the mothers and midwives must find comfort and friendship in one another.But can they also find the strength to fight for their HomePraise for Daisy Styles’An absolute joy to read’ Kate Thompson’Will tug at the heart strings of readers everywhere!’ Fiona Ford’Truly endearing characters’ Annie Murray
Dive into the heartwarming world of wartime Britain with Daisy Styles' "Keep Smiling Through," a captivating novel that will resonate with fans of Katie Flynn, Nancy Revell, and the beloved TV series *Call the Midwife*. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Lake District in 1942, this poignant story explores the lives of three remarkable women connected by Mary Vale Mother and Baby Home, a sanctuary for mothers and children navigating the hardships of war. "Keep Smiling Through" isn't just a story; it's an immersive experience that transports you to a time of resilience, community, and unwavering hope. Styles masterfully crafts a narrative rich in historical detail, allowing readers to fully appreciate the challenges faced by women during World War II. Beyond the compelling plot, the novel delves into themes of female solidarity, the strength of the human spirit, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. Meet Sybil, a young woman whose dreams of a glamorous London season are shattered by an unexpected pregnancy. Forced to confront her new reality, she finds herself at Mary Vale, grappling with uncertainty and a longing for the life she envisioned. Rosie arrives at the Home carrying the weight of unimaginable loss. With her two children in tow, she seeks refuge after their home is destroyed in a devastating bombing raid, their lives irrevocably altered by the war's relentless reach. The arrival of Edith, a new midwife, adds another layer of intrigue. She brings not only her medical expertise but also a past shrouded in secrets, adding suspense and mystery to the already complex dynamics of Mary Vale. As the war intensifies, Mary Vale faces its biggest threat yet: requisition by the army. The Home and its inhabitants stand to be displaced, their sanctuary taken from them. The women, facing the prospect of losing everything, must band together, drawing strength from their shared experiences and the bonds they've forged. Can Sybil, Rosie, and Edith find solace and friendship in each other? More importantly, can they muster the courage to fight for their home, for the safety of the mothers and children under their care, and for the future they desperately hope to build? Daisy Styles, known for her heartwarming and emotionally resonant storytelling, delivers another triumph with "Keep Smiling Through." The author's ability to create believable characters and weave them into a compelling historical narrative has garnered widespread acclaim. Readers have praised Styles' authentic portrayal of wartime Britain and her skill in capturing the emotional complexities of her characters. This isn't just a feel-good story; it's a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women during a time of great upheaval. If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female characters, stories of hope and resilience, and narratives that explore the bonds of community, then "Keep Smiling Through" is a must-read. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and utterly captivated by this unforgettable tale of love, loss, and the unwavering spirit of those who kept smiling through the darkest of times. With 400 pages of compelling narrative, published by Penguin in 2021, this paperback edition of "Keep Smiling Through" (ISBN: 9781405945219) offers a perfect escape into a world where hope flickers even in the deepest shadows. Experience the magic for yourself!