In Love & War
Heartache At Blackberry Farm by Rosie Clarke is a marvellous historical novel. It is part of the Blackberry Farm series but can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading the books in order so you can track character progression.
We catch up with the action in 1940. The war has very much been established as young men are away at war and land girls are working on the farm.
Blackberry Farm welcomes all with open arms, including the reader. The farmhouse takes in all who need shelter, love and care. The welcome is as warm as the fireplace. The farm is busy but never too busy to support those in need.
War is terrible. Husbands, brothers, sons all go off to war – but not all return. Those who do may well be injured but loved ones are just happy to see them again.
The reader follows three main elements – the farm, soldiers and nursing. Everyone plays their part in the war effort.
Lives still continue in war – people still fall in love, give birth, and die. The reader witnesses the two differing points of view when it comes to unmarried mothers. Some heap on shame and guilt, others see the baby as a beautiful gift to be treasured. There is much love and support given to those in need.
War changes the moral code of the day. Life and happiness are grabbed where they can. We only have the moment, tomorrow is not guaranteed.
I loved catching up with familiar faces. Rosie Clarke has created a wonderful set of characters. I ‘lived’ the action, so much so that at one stage I literally yelled ‘no!’ as the turn of events shocked me. At another stage I punched the air and yelled ‘yes!’ I was definitely invested in the lives of the characters.
With emotions all over the place, I thoroughly enjoyed Heartache At Blackberry Farm. It was a terrific read that I can recommend.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON
Heartache at Blackberry Farm
A story of life and survival during the war which is heart-rending and bitter-sweet, bringing you laughter and tears.
Cambridgeshire – 1941
As the war rages on in Europe, it brings untold heartache to the Talbot family at Blackberry Farm.
First Tom is missing in action and then his brother John. leaving the family distraught with worry.
Faith finds herself in trouble and turns to Lizzie for support as fear and grief bring them closer together.
But tragedy is never too far away and when it strikes, it may not be those who fight that suffer most.
Will Pam’s prayers be answered and will both her sons return home?
And can the family at Blackberry Farm unite and surmount terrible grief to find hope and joy in a new life for the future?
Purchase Link – https://amzn.to/3c3y6Su
Author Bio –
Rosie Clarke is a #1 bestselling saga writer whose most recent books include The Mulberry Lane series. She has written over 100 novels under different pseudonyms and is a RNA Award winner. She lives in Cambridgeshire.
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