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Into the Darkest Day
She had to step outside and hold the paper up to the moonlight to read it, but when she was able to make out the words, her heart felt as if it would drop right out of her chest. Because the message was in German.
1944, London:
When Lily meets enigmatic GI Matthew in war-torn London, she doesn’t expect to fall in love. While her sister starts a reckless affair with another GI, Lily tries to hide her growing feelings for Matthew.
But Matthew has a devastating secret. One that could change their lives forever.
Present day, USA:
Abby lives a quiet life on an apple farm in Wisconsin. Tormented by survivor’s guilt after the tragic deaths of her mother and brother, Abby leaves the orchards as little as possible, keeping her life small, peaceful and safe… Until she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, who arrives nursing a heartbreak of his own, and bearing a World War Two medal that he claims belonged to Abby’s grandfather.
Together they begin to piece together the heartbreaking story of their relatives’ war. But as the story brings Abby and Simon closer—tentatively beginning to lean on one another to heal—they uncover a dark secret from the past.
And like Lily and Matthew nearly eighty years before them, it will make Abby and Simon question whether you can ever truly trust someone, even when they have your heart…
A heartbreakingly powerful, epic love story about courage, friendship and broken trusts, Into the Darkest Day is an unforgettable story perfect for fans of Nora Roberts, Kristin Hannah and The Notebook.
1944, London:
When Lily meets enigmatic GI Matthew in war-torn London, she doesn’t expect to fall in love. While her sister starts a reckless affair with another GI, Lily tries to hide her growing feelings for Matthew.
But Matthew has a devastating secret. One that could change their lives forever.
Present day, USA:
Abby lives a quiet life on an apple farm in Wisconsin. Tormented by survivor’s guilt after the tragic deaths of her mother and brother, Abby leaves the orchards as little as possible, keeping her life small, peaceful and safe… Until she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, who arrives nursing a heartbreak of his own, and bearing a World War Two medal that he claims belonged to Abby’s grandfather.
Together they begin to piece together the heartbreaking story of their relatives’ war. But as the story brings Abby and Simon closer—tentatively beginning to lean on one another to heal—they uncover a dark secret from the past.
And like Lily and Matthew nearly eighty years before them, it will make Abby and Simon question whether you can ever truly trust someone, even when they have your heart…
A heartbreakingly powerful, epic love story about courage, friendship and broken trusts, Into the Darkest Day is an unforgettable story perfect for fans of Nora Roberts, Kristin Hannah and The Notebook.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2020
2048 people are currently reading
1605 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
876 books1,697 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
October 3, 2021
EXCERPT: Hello, you don't know me, but I know of you - at least a bit! My grandmother, Sophie Mather, died a few months ago, and she was in possession of your grandfather, Tom Reese's, Purple Heart medal, awarded during his active service in the second world war. She told me she wanted it returned to 'it's proper owner.'
I've read on your website that your grandfather passed away some time ago, and I'm very sorry for your loss. I presume that the proper owner now would be you or your father. I'm coming to the United States this summer for an extended visit, and would love the opportunity to return the medal to your family.
Abby had read it all, her mind both blank and spinning. Sophie Mather? What medal? And a visit?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: 1944, London:
When Lily meets enigmatic GI Matthew in war-torn London, she doesn’t expect to fall in love. While her sister starts a reckless affair with another GI, Lily tries to hide her growing feelings for Matthew.
But Matthew has a devastating secret. One that could change their lives forever.
Present day, USA:
Abby lives a quiet life on an apple farm in Wisconsin. Tormented by survivor’s guilt after the tragic deaths of her mother and brother, Abby leaves the orchards as little as possible, keeping her life small, peaceful and safe… Until she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, who arrives nursing a heartbreak of his own, and bearing a World War Two medal that he claims belonged to Abby’s grandfather.
Together they begin to piece together the heartbreaking story of their relatives’ war. But as the story brings Abby and Simon closer—tentatively beginning to lean on one another to heal—they uncover a dark secret from the past.
And like Lily and Matthew nearly eighty years before them, it will make Abby and Simon question whether you can ever truly trust someone, even when they have your heart…
MY THOUGHTS: I went into this book thinking that it was going to be a pleasant mystery/romance. And it was. But I have read enough of Kate Hewitt's books by now that I should have known better. Anything she writes packs a punch, and Into the Darkest Day sure does that.
The story is written over dual timelines, the current day through the voices of Abby and Simon, and 1944/5 through the voices of Lily and Matthew.
Into the Darkest Day is rich in historical detail. The London blitz, with nights spent in cold and cramped Anderson shelters in the back garden while the skies buzz and scream and crackle under enemy attack, droning planes and thudding bombs, emerging after the all clear into air full of dust and the acrid smell of burning, the smell of destruction, to find a once familiar landscape cratered and littered with rubble and the scant remains of people's personal possessions.
The Wobbelin internment camp where bodies were stacked like winter logs, one atop the other, waiting to be incinerated. Where the survivors are skeletons, with skin stretched over their bones, starved to the point where to give them food would kill them.
I had never before heard of the Ritchie Boys, German Jews who acted as interpreters and interrogators in the final stages of the war, men who returned to Germany to face and confront those who had once tormented and tortured them. Please make sure that you read Kate's letter at the end of the book, AFTER you finish.
I have read a lot of books about the war, and the camps, but I don't think I have ever read anything quite so graphically described in so few words.
The characters and their relationships are absolutely absorbing, as is the mystery surrounding the medals. Yes, there is more than one. Mystery, and medal.
I loved Into the Darkest Day, as I have everything I have read by this author. This book has only strengthened my resolve to read everything that Kate has ever written. Highly recommended.
❤❤❤❤.5
Dysfunctional families are ones with people in them.
THE AUTHOR: Kate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of women's fiction. Her latest releases are A Vicarage Homecoming and Not My Daughter. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Into the Darkest Day by Kate Hewitt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I've read on your website that your grandfather passed away some time ago, and I'm very sorry for your loss. I presume that the proper owner now would be you or your father. I'm coming to the United States this summer for an extended visit, and would love the opportunity to return the medal to your family.
Abby had read it all, her mind both blank and spinning. Sophie Mather? What medal? And a visit?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: 1944, London:
When Lily meets enigmatic GI Matthew in war-torn London, she doesn’t expect to fall in love. While her sister starts a reckless affair with another GI, Lily tries to hide her growing feelings for Matthew.
But Matthew has a devastating secret. One that could change their lives forever.
Present day, USA:
Abby lives a quiet life on an apple farm in Wisconsin. Tormented by survivor’s guilt after the tragic deaths of her mother and brother, Abby leaves the orchards as little as possible, keeping her life small, peaceful and safe… Until she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, who arrives nursing a heartbreak of his own, and bearing a World War Two medal that he claims belonged to Abby’s grandfather.
Together they begin to piece together the heartbreaking story of their relatives’ war. But as the story brings Abby and Simon closer—tentatively beginning to lean on one another to heal—they uncover a dark secret from the past.
And like Lily and Matthew nearly eighty years before them, it will make Abby and Simon question whether you can ever truly trust someone, even when they have your heart…
MY THOUGHTS: I went into this book thinking that it was going to be a pleasant mystery/romance. And it was. But I have read enough of Kate Hewitt's books by now that I should have known better. Anything she writes packs a punch, and Into the Darkest Day sure does that.
The story is written over dual timelines, the current day through the voices of Abby and Simon, and 1944/5 through the voices of Lily and Matthew.
Into the Darkest Day is rich in historical detail. The London blitz, with nights spent in cold and cramped Anderson shelters in the back garden while the skies buzz and scream and crackle under enemy attack, droning planes and thudding bombs, emerging after the all clear into air full of dust and the acrid smell of burning, the smell of destruction, to find a once familiar landscape cratered and littered with rubble and the scant remains of people's personal possessions.
The Wobbelin internment camp where bodies were stacked like winter logs, one atop the other, waiting to be incinerated. Where the survivors are skeletons, with skin stretched over their bones, starved to the point where to give them food would kill them.
I had never before heard of the Ritchie Boys, German Jews who acted as interpreters and interrogators in the final stages of the war, men who returned to Germany to face and confront those who had once tormented and tortured them. Please make sure that you read Kate's letter at the end of the book, AFTER you finish.
I have read a lot of books about the war, and the camps, but I don't think I have ever read anything quite so graphically described in so few words.
The characters and their relationships are absolutely absorbing, as is the mystery surrounding the medals. Yes, there is more than one. Mystery, and medal.
I loved Into the Darkest Day, as I have everything I have read by this author. This book has only strengthened my resolve to read everything that Kate has ever written. Highly recommended.
❤❤❤❤.5
Dysfunctional families are ones with people in them.
THE AUTHOR: Kate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of women's fiction. Her latest releases are A Vicarage Homecoming and Not My Daughter. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Into the Darkest Day by Kate Hewitt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
May 17, 2020
Emotional and gripping. Kate Hewitt has once again hit me right in the heart with her evocative storytelling. London 1944 Lily meets charismatic American G.I. Mathew, at the same time that her sister meets another American G.I. Present day Wisconsin Abby is living a quiet life on her family’s apple farm navigating a difficult relationship with her father. When Simon an Englishman reaches out to her about a war metal that he wants to return to her as it belongs to her grandfather, Abby is confused and intrigued. When Abby and Simon meet up they find out that their families are somewhat entangled and have many secrets yet to be revealed. Two Beautiful stories woven together seamlessly.
Not going to lie I am very burned out on WWII stories, but when I saw that Kate Hewitt was the author of this one I couldn’t pass it up. She did a remarkable job of creating a sense of time and place throughout the story especially when it came to the WWII scenes. The tension was palpable in some of these wartime scenes, my heart was pounding and I seriously thought I could actually hear the bombs going off. I also learned about some aspects of the war that I had never heard about before. The present day story was equally compelling, I was very drawn to Abby. I found her so likable and sympathetic, I really wanted her to find some real happiness. Another emotional story from Kate Hewitt that touched my heart. One day one of your books will not make me shed some tears.
This book in emojis 🍎 🎖 🪂 🇺🇸 🏴 🍏
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Not going to lie I am very burned out on WWII stories, but when I saw that Kate Hewitt was the author of this one I couldn’t pass it up. She did a remarkable job of creating a sense of time and place throughout the story especially when it came to the WWII scenes. The tension was palpable in some of these wartime scenes, my heart was pounding and I seriously thought I could actually hear the bombs going off. I also learned about some aspects of the war that I had never heard about before. The present day story was equally compelling, I was very drawn to Abby. I found her so likable and sympathetic, I really wanted her to find some real happiness. Another emotional story from Kate Hewitt that touched my heart. One day one of your books will not make me shed some tears.
This book in emojis 🍎 🎖 🪂 🇺🇸 🏴 🍏
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
May 9, 2020
Lily and Sophie were sisters but as different as chalk and cheese. Lily was quiet, unassuming, kind; while Sophie was a little wild, determined to have fun while she could. It was 1944 in London when the sisters met the two American GIs when her mother invited them to dinner. Tom was taken with Sophie while Matthew, stoic and enigmatic, wasn’t a person that was easy to know. When the four of them went out dancing, Lily knew she liked Matthew, but she was young and naïve, not really understanding the man in front of her.
The apple farm in Wisconsin had been Abby’s home all her life with the past fifteen years having been harder than the ones before. She and her father lived and worked there, but the tension and unease between them didn’t lessen. When Simon Elliot arrived all the way from England with a medal which his grandmother had owned, but wanted given to Tom Reese’s family, Abby really had no idea what was about to enter her life. And also, the despair and reticence of her father and why he was determined not to speak of his father puzzled her.
As Simon and Abby gradually learned more about their respective relatives and the horrors of the war; of the past that not many wanted to speak about, they found themselves also learning about Simon’s great aunt, Lily. And of Matthew and his involvement with Abby’s grandfather. What would these secrets divulge? And would Simon and Abby finally move toward healing from their own pasts?
Originally titled "The Forgotten Heart", Into the Darkest Day by Kate Hewitt is an intriguing historical fiction novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. Set in two time frames – 1944 London and Europe, and present day in the USA in Wisconsin, the times worked well. I found myself drawn to Lily and Matthew’s story the most, and found the conclusion to the story very satisfying. An excellent historical novel, Into the Darkest Day is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The apple farm in Wisconsin had been Abby’s home all her life with the past fifteen years having been harder than the ones before. She and her father lived and worked there, but the tension and unease between them didn’t lessen. When Simon Elliot arrived all the way from England with a medal which his grandmother had owned, but wanted given to Tom Reese’s family, Abby really had no idea what was about to enter her life. And also, the despair and reticence of her father and why he was determined not to speak of his father puzzled her.
As Simon and Abby gradually learned more about their respective relatives and the horrors of the war; of the past that not many wanted to speak about, they found themselves also learning about Simon’s great aunt, Lily. And of Matthew and his involvement with Abby’s grandfather. What would these secrets divulge? And would Simon and Abby finally move toward healing from their own pasts?
Originally titled "The Forgotten Heart", Into the Darkest Day by Kate Hewitt is an intriguing historical fiction novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. Set in two time frames – 1944 London and Europe, and present day in the USA in Wisconsin, the times worked well. I found myself drawn to Lily and Matthew’s story the most, and found the conclusion to the story very satisfying. An excellent historical novel, Into the Darkest Day is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2024
Into the Darkest Day by Kate Hewitt is sort of a contemporary romance mixed with a historical romance with the book taking place in two timelines. The chapters alternate between the current characters and story then change the point of view to their relatives in the past.
In the present day in the U.S Abby lives with her father on the family apple orchard in Wisconsin. Since the passing of Abby’s mother and brother she has been resigned to her quiet life helping her father run the family farm instead of pursuing her own dreams.
When Abby is contacted by Simon Elliot claiming to have a medal that belonged to her grandfather she isn’t sure what to think. Abby’s father isn’t happy at all with looking into the past but Abby can’t help but be curious as to what took place all those years ago between her grandfather and Simon’s grandmother.
Into the Darkest Day was was a great read that flowed along rather nicely as it switched the timelines and characters. The idea behind the main characters in the present timeline not knowing what had happened to their relatives in the past seemed like a very realistic prospect so it drew me in with them as the story in the past unfolded and the twists and turns of the past came to light.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
In the present day in the U.S Abby lives with her father on the family apple orchard in Wisconsin. Since the passing of Abby’s mother and brother she has been resigned to her quiet life helping her father run the family farm instead of pursuing her own dreams.
When Abby is contacted by Simon Elliot claiming to have a medal that belonged to her grandfather she isn’t sure what to think. Abby’s father isn’t happy at all with looking into the past but Abby can’t help but be curious as to what took place all those years ago between her grandfather and Simon’s grandmother.
Into the Darkest Day was was a great read that flowed along rather nicely as it switched the timelines and characters. The idea behind the main characters in the present timeline not knowing what had happened to their relatives in the past seemed like a very realistic prospect so it drew me in with them as the story in the past unfolded and the twists and turns of the past came to light.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
June 21, 2021
London 1944, Lily Mather lives with her parents Richard and Carol and her very flirty sister Sophie. The American G.I.’s arrive in town; they turn many girls’ heads with their smart uniforms, good looks and nice teeth. Carol invites two soldiers to come for Sunday lunch, Lieutenant Tom Rees and Sergeant Matthew Lawson and both are paratroopers. Lily likes quiet Matthew and Sophie falls for handsome Tom.
Everyone in London is weary, they desperately want the war to be over and the arrival of the Yanks means the allies are getting ready for the big push. The effects of the war have taken its toll, London is drab, so many buildings have been damaged, everyone is tired, thin due to food restrictions, wearing worn out clothes and nights are spend sleeping the Anderson shelter in the backyard.
Present day America, Abby lives with her dad at Willow Tree farm in Ashford Wisconsin, they grow apples, make apple cider and have a little road side shop. Abby is thirty three, she likes the solitude of the farm, it's a quiet life and she's happy being single. One day she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, he has a purple heart medal given to him by his grandmother Sophie and he thinks it belongs to Abby’s Grandfather?
Together they try to solve the mystery behind the two medals and discover relationship between their relatives during WW II. Abby hasn’t dated anyone in years and she’s very attracted to Simon. But, he’s only staying in America over the summer break, he wants to write a book about English war brides and she’s concerned he might be using her and her family to gather information for his book?
The book really picked up the pace when the paratroopers were dropped into France and five practice jumps isn’t the same as the real thing. The plane fight to France on D Day was a long, with jittery and nervous men and jumping out of a plane carrying a heavy pack with flak and under fire was scary. The battle of the Bulge heightened the tension between Matthew and Tom and it also changed soldiers’ relationships with the Mather girls.
Into The Darkest Day is a heartbreaking story with a dual time line and it works well. Its a story about WW II, courage, duty, friendship, hope and the heavy weight people carried for years after the second world war finished, due to guilt and secrets.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, its a unique WW II historical fiction story, a must read and five stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
Everyone in London is weary, they desperately want the war to be over and the arrival of the Yanks means the allies are getting ready for the big push. The effects of the war have taken its toll, London is drab, so many buildings have been damaged, everyone is tired, thin due to food restrictions, wearing worn out clothes and nights are spend sleeping the Anderson shelter in the backyard.
Present day America, Abby lives with her dad at Willow Tree farm in Ashford Wisconsin, they grow apples, make apple cider and have a little road side shop. Abby is thirty three, she likes the solitude of the farm, it's a quiet life and she's happy being single. One day she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, he has a purple heart medal given to him by his grandmother Sophie and he thinks it belongs to Abby’s Grandfather?
Together they try to solve the mystery behind the two medals and discover relationship between their relatives during WW II. Abby hasn’t dated anyone in years and she’s very attracted to Simon. But, he’s only staying in America over the summer break, he wants to write a book about English war brides and she’s concerned he might be using her and her family to gather information for his book?
The book really picked up the pace when the paratroopers were dropped into France and five practice jumps isn’t the same as the real thing. The plane fight to France on D Day was a long, with jittery and nervous men and jumping out of a plane carrying a heavy pack with flak and under fire was scary. The battle of the Bulge heightened the tension between Matthew and Tom and it also changed soldiers’ relationships with the Mather girls.
Into The Darkest Day is a heartbreaking story with a dual time line and it works well. Its a story about WW II, courage, duty, friendship, hope and the heavy weight people carried for years after the second world war finished, due to guilt and secrets.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, its a unique WW II historical fiction story, a must read and five stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
May 14, 2020
Into The Darkest Day, by Kate Hewitt, is a story about loss, regret, and love.
Amidst the Second World War, sisters Sophie and Lily Mather meet Tom Reese and Matthew Lawson, two American soldiers recently deployed.
While Sophie was all about living the moment, Lily was introspective and risk-averse.
Tom and Matthew are equally dissimilar. The first is charming and easy-going, while the second is self-contained and secretive.
Each of the characters experiences the war in different ways, their coping mechanisms so distinct and yet very relatable.
There are some sad moments, but it is done in a very delicate manner. The sad facts are told more than showed, and it is not overly dramatic.
The narrative alternates between past and present.
In the present, Sophie's grandson Simon is in America meeting Tom Resse's grandaughter Abby to give back a war medal that was in his grandmother's possession.
I love the idea of their descendants meeting and investigating their story, but I would have preferred to stay in the past. I was committed to the characters there, and the present felt like an unwanted intruder.
Despite that, I truly enjoyed the book, and I was sad when it was over. I wanted it to keep going just a little longer.
Overall, an enjoyable read with inspired characters and an absorbing story.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Amidst the Second World War, sisters Sophie and Lily Mather meet Tom Reese and Matthew Lawson, two American soldiers recently deployed.
While Sophie was all about living the moment, Lily was introspective and risk-averse.
Tom and Matthew are equally dissimilar. The first is charming and easy-going, while the second is self-contained and secretive.
Each of the characters experiences the war in different ways, their coping mechanisms so distinct and yet very relatable.
There are some sad moments, but it is done in a very delicate manner. The sad facts are told more than showed, and it is not overly dramatic.
The narrative alternates between past and present.
In the present, Sophie's grandson Simon is in America meeting Tom Resse's grandaughter Abby to give back a war medal that was in his grandmother's possession.
I love the idea of their descendants meeting and investigating their story, but I would have preferred to stay in the past. I was committed to the characters there, and the present felt like an unwanted intruder.
Despite that, I truly enjoyed the book, and I was sad when it was over. I wanted it to keep going just a little longer.
Overall, an enjoyable read with inspired characters and an absorbing story.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2020
In this touching, often very tragic story, Abby Reese is visited by an Englishman Simon Elliot. Simon is in possession of a metal that he is certain belongs to Abby‘s grandfather, Tom Reese. Furthermore, Simon plans on writing a book so he wants much more than to simply return the medal. Simon hopes that Abby can help him piece together history from almost 80 years ago that connects her grandfather with his grandmother.
The story than shifts back to 1944 London when Lily Mathers, her sister Sophia and their parents are trying to cope with the effects of the war and bombs being dropped, often being forced to find shelter in order to stay alive. Lily and Sophia are doing their best during the war efforts. Meanwhile, they end up meeting two men, Matthew Lawson and Tom Reese.
This was one of the most difficult books I have read in a long time. Not only does the reader see the one family is affected by the war, there are aspects of the war that Tom and Matthew, American soldiers, were a part of. How there lives were affected is explored as well.
Meanwhile, two of these characters in the story, Matthew and Simon, had heartbreaking stories that were recounted. I had a hard time reading how these poor people were overwhelmingly affected by the war. Kate Hewitt wrote a very effective story, and no doubt it is based on excellent research, so much so that I actually took a moment to research D-Day and Normandy
This was truly a powerful story. It was incredibly deep, especially with certain aspects of the war. Though the book was quite sad, it was very touching to see the relationships formed between some of the couples and how love could be found despite devastation and loss. Kate Hewitt has done an exceptional job with this book and it comes highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The story than shifts back to 1944 London when Lily Mathers, her sister Sophia and their parents are trying to cope with the effects of the war and bombs being dropped, often being forced to find shelter in order to stay alive. Lily and Sophia are doing their best during the war efforts. Meanwhile, they end up meeting two men, Matthew Lawson and Tom Reese.
This was one of the most difficult books I have read in a long time. Not only does the reader see the one family is affected by the war, there are aspects of the war that Tom and Matthew, American soldiers, were a part of. How there lives were affected is explored as well.
Meanwhile, two of these characters in the story, Matthew and Simon, had heartbreaking stories that were recounted. I had a hard time reading how these poor people were overwhelmingly affected by the war. Kate Hewitt wrote a very effective story, and no doubt it is based on excellent research, so much so that I actually took a moment to research D-Day and Normandy
This was truly a powerful story. It was incredibly deep, especially with certain aspects of the war. Though the book was quite sad, it was very touching to see the relationships formed between some of the couples and how love could be found despite devastation and loss. Kate Hewitt has done an exceptional job with this book and it comes highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 14, 2020
Kate Hewitt never ceases to amaze me. I have been a huge fan for quite some time now and every new book release has all been five star reads for me. Into the Darkest Day is another example of Hewitt’s uber talented writing and if you haven’t guessed it, another five star read. As if I ever had any doubts it would be anything less!
I absolutely love history, especially stories centered around World War II. I listen to stories from my grandmother about the past and her time growing up during the war and her work at the military base. Hewitt really captures the essence of the time period during World War II and I could see all of the research that went into this story, heck even I learned a few things while reading.
Abby Reese lives on an apple farm in Wisconsin with her father. She suffers from a terrible loss fifteen years earlier and since then, her relationship with her father has been strained. When Simon Elliot emails and asks to meet Abby, Abby’s curiosity gets the best of her, especially since Sam claims to have a WWII medal that belonged to her grandfather. What is the story behind the medal and why would Sam’s grandmother be in possession of something so valuable?
Told in dual timelines from the past to the present, Hewitt weaves an emotionally charged story right from the first chapter. I was enthralled as soon as I began reading and my attention never wavered. I knew once I started I would not be able to put this book down, so once again, I was up till 4AM reading fighting for my eyes to stay open. I do have to admit though, that this always seems to be the case when it comes to a new book by Hewitt. This is such a classic kind of story. I don’t know what it is, but Hewitt really captures a time period and her words made me feel as if I was actually there seeing everything play out before my eyes. I had so many different emotions while reading and may have even become a little teary eyed (Yes! Another trait reading a book by Hewitt and it never seems to fail.)
I remember reading the blurb to this story and in the blurb it likened this story to one of my all time favorite movies/books, The Notebook. I have to say, Into the Darkest Day really lived up to my expectations and gave me all the feels just like The Notebook did when I first watched it in the theaters. I am not one to reread books, but this story definitely made a lasting impression and is one I would definitely love to reread sometime soon.
Into the Darkest Day is gripping and captivating! It is a heartfelt and honest story that is sure to be a favorite for fans of kate Hewitt and fans of WWII stories. I cannot say enough good things about this book. A definite keeper for my keeper shelf!
I absolutely love history, especially stories centered around World War II. I listen to stories from my grandmother about the past and her time growing up during the war and her work at the military base. Hewitt really captures the essence of the time period during World War II and I could see all of the research that went into this story, heck even I learned a few things while reading.
Abby Reese lives on an apple farm in Wisconsin with her father. She suffers from a terrible loss fifteen years earlier and since then, her relationship with her father has been strained. When Simon Elliot emails and asks to meet Abby, Abby’s curiosity gets the best of her, especially since Sam claims to have a WWII medal that belonged to her grandfather. What is the story behind the medal and why would Sam’s grandmother be in possession of something so valuable?
Told in dual timelines from the past to the present, Hewitt weaves an emotionally charged story right from the first chapter. I was enthralled as soon as I began reading and my attention never wavered. I knew once I started I would not be able to put this book down, so once again, I was up till 4AM reading fighting for my eyes to stay open. I do have to admit though, that this always seems to be the case when it comes to a new book by Hewitt. This is such a classic kind of story. I don’t know what it is, but Hewitt really captures a time period and her words made me feel as if I was actually there seeing everything play out before my eyes. I had so many different emotions while reading and may have even become a little teary eyed (Yes! Another trait reading a book by Hewitt and it never seems to fail.)
I remember reading the blurb to this story and in the blurb it likened this story to one of my all time favorite movies/books, The Notebook. I have to say, Into the Darkest Day really lived up to my expectations and gave me all the feels just like The Notebook did when I first watched it in the theaters. I am not one to reread books, but this story definitely made a lasting impression and is one I would definitely love to reread sometime soon.
Into the Darkest Day is gripping and captivating! It is a heartfelt and honest story that is sure to be a favorite for fans of kate Hewitt and fans of WWII stories. I cannot say enough good things about this book. A definite keeper for my keeper shelf!
April 2, 2020
The Forgotten Heart is a very intense and heartbreaking story that will stay with you long after it ends. A dramatic, unforgettable story that starts with a quest to find information about the mystery of a Purple Heart that is found. The authors brings to light intense WW2 history while intertwining romances of Lily and her sister, Sophie.
What a heartbreaking love story full of broken promises, friendships and courage.
A must read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGallery, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and give my honest review about this book.
What a heartbreaking love story full of broken promises, friendships and courage.
A must read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGallery, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and give my honest review about this book.
April 6, 2023
Kilka słów o W godzinie próby
🌼
Jest rok 1944 - w Londynie Lily poznaje żołnierza armii amerykańskiej. Całkiem przypadkiem ale jest nim zauroczona
Matthiew ma wkrótce wyjechać do walki i kobieta czuje że ich miłość skazana jest na straty jednak postanawia wybrać serce. Jak wpłynie jednak na jej wybór fakt, że mężczyzna nie jest tym za kogo się podaje?
🌼
Bogata, wielowątkowa fabuła, z historią w tle przeplataną z lodami z teraźniejszości co najbardziej lubię😀
Ciekawi bohaterowie, którzy po kolei będą się przed nami odkrywać.
Książka nie jest obszerna ale na stronach znalazło się wszystko to co powinno i nie jest ona przegadana.
Choć bardziej polubiłam bohaterów doszukujących się prawdy o przeszłości, to wszystkie wątki dobrze się czytało🥰
Serdecznie polecam a ja już pożyczyłam druga książkę autorki i będę niebawem czytać 🤗
🌼
Jest rok 1944 - w Londynie Lily poznaje żołnierza armii amerykańskiej. Całkiem przypadkiem ale jest nim zauroczona
Matthiew ma wkrótce wyjechać do walki i kobieta czuje że ich miłość skazana jest na straty jednak postanawia wybrać serce. Jak wpłynie jednak na jej wybór fakt, że mężczyzna nie jest tym za kogo się podaje?
🌼
Bogata, wielowątkowa fabuła, z historią w tle przeplataną z lodami z teraźniejszości co najbardziej lubię😀
Ciekawi bohaterowie, którzy po kolei będą się przed nami odkrywać.
Książka nie jest obszerna ale na stronach znalazło się wszystko to co powinno i nie jest ona przegadana.
Choć bardziej polubiłam bohaterów doszukujących się prawdy o przeszłości, to wszystkie wątki dobrze się czytało🥰
Serdecznie polecam a ja już pożyczyłam druga książkę autorki i będę niebawem czytać 🤗
April 11, 2020
omgosh this book had me really sucked in. I love fiction book. and this book had all I expect from a historical fiction book. history, love, romance. but it was also about healing, letting go of The past. and learning to let go of regret and start living again. a must Read book. Thank you to netgalley for this e arc in exchange for an honest review
May 12, 2020
When Simon’s grandmother asks him, while on her death bed, to give a World War II purple heart medal back to its rightful owner, Simon travels to Wisconsin and meets Abby. Abby is the granddaughter of Tom, the Purple Heart recipient who knew Simon’s grandmother during the war.
As Simon and Abby grow closer and learn more about their grandparents’ connection, they uncover some dark secrets from the past. How did Sophie and Tom know each other? Who is Matthew, and why is he so secretive? Why does Sophie (Simon’s grandmother) want Tom’s forgiveness after all these years? Together, Simon and Abby unravel the secrets of the past while facing their own hidden demons.
The story is told in present-day America with flashbacks to Tom and Sophie’s story. It is an interesting juxtaposition when you compare the ever-changing and intense war-time setting to the stagnant yet tranquil farm life of the present. Simon and Abby’s story progresses at a slower pace than Tom and Sophie’s further stressing the influence one’s setting has on life.
Throughout the story, there are hints that Abby’s past haunts her and hinders her from moving on and truly living her life. She is trapped in a devastating vortex of survivor’s guilt after the death of two family members fifteen years ago. Watching her deal with the pain of the past, seeing her face her father and everything that has been left unsaid, and witnessing her strength is a highlight of the book.
Simon has his own guilt and regrets, and he and Abby support and understand each other well. I love their easy banter and their innate ability to accept each other, faults and all. They have a unique connection that is a pleasure to watch deepen, and I found myself rooting for this couple.
That being said, I found myself more fascinated in Lily’s (Sophie’s more reserved sister) story, and her budding relationship with Matthew, than any other in the book, which makes sense as the flashbacks focus more on Lily.
Though Lily and Sophie are sisters, they are very different. Lily is much more serious and cautious, and Sophie is more impulsive and carefree. Lily reminds me a bit of Abby in their gentle personalities, their sensitivity, and their selflessness. As their stories unfold, shocking truths are revealed that explain their connections to Tom and the mysterious Matthew.
As Sophie and Tom become closer, Lily connects with Tom’s friend Matthew. He is quiet and precise, sincere and a little mysterious. Lily switches between fascination and suspicion until she learns the devastating truth of Matthew’s past. Matthew also holds an important role in what happened to Tom and Sophie.
This is a well-developed, immersive story that explores different times and different circumstances. It focuses on family responsibility, the need to feel purposeful, finding one’s identity, dealing with one’s choices, and living through tragedy. Messages of hope, perseverance, and love are also at the forefront of the novel.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
As Simon and Abby grow closer and learn more about their grandparents’ connection, they uncover some dark secrets from the past. How did Sophie and Tom know each other? Who is Matthew, and why is he so secretive? Why does Sophie (Simon’s grandmother) want Tom’s forgiveness after all these years? Together, Simon and Abby unravel the secrets of the past while facing their own hidden demons.
The story is told in present-day America with flashbacks to Tom and Sophie’s story. It is an interesting juxtaposition when you compare the ever-changing and intense war-time setting to the stagnant yet tranquil farm life of the present. Simon and Abby’s story progresses at a slower pace than Tom and Sophie’s further stressing the influence one’s setting has on life.
Throughout the story, there are hints that Abby’s past haunts her and hinders her from moving on and truly living her life. She is trapped in a devastating vortex of survivor’s guilt after the death of two family members fifteen years ago. Watching her deal with the pain of the past, seeing her face her father and everything that has been left unsaid, and witnessing her strength is a highlight of the book.
Simon has his own guilt and regrets, and he and Abby support and understand each other well. I love their easy banter and their innate ability to accept each other, faults and all. They have a unique connection that is a pleasure to watch deepen, and I found myself rooting for this couple.
That being said, I found myself more fascinated in Lily’s (Sophie’s more reserved sister) story, and her budding relationship with Matthew, than any other in the book, which makes sense as the flashbacks focus more on Lily.
Though Lily and Sophie are sisters, they are very different. Lily is much more serious and cautious, and Sophie is more impulsive and carefree. Lily reminds me a bit of Abby in their gentle personalities, their sensitivity, and their selflessness. As their stories unfold, shocking truths are revealed that explain their connections to Tom and the mysterious Matthew.
As Sophie and Tom become closer, Lily connects with Tom’s friend Matthew. He is quiet and precise, sincere and a little mysterious. Lily switches between fascination and suspicion until she learns the devastating truth of Matthew’s past. Matthew also holds an important role in what happened to Tom and Sophie.
This is a well-developed, immersive story that explores different times and different circumstances. It focuses on family responsibility, the need to feel purposeful, finding one’s identity, dealing with one’s choices, and living through tragedy. Messages of hope, perseverance, and love are also at the forefront of the novel.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
May 12, 2020
Present day, USA:
Abby Reese lives a quiet life on an apple farm in Wisconsin. Tormented by survivor’s guilt after the tragic deaths of her mother and brother, Abby leaves the orchards as little as possible, keeping her life small, peaceful and safe. Until she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, who arrives nursing a heartbreak of his own, and bearing a World War Two medal that he claims belonged to Abby’s grandfather, Tom which for some reason his grandmother Sophie wanted Simon to return it to Tom
Together they begin to piece together the heartbreaking story of their relatives’ war. But as the story brings Abby and Simon closer—tentatively beginning to lean on one another to heal—they uncover a dark secret from the past.
1944, London:
Sophie & Lily Mather work as typists & live in Clapham Common where they meet two Gis Tom Reese & the enigmatic Matthew Lawson. Whilst Sophie starts a reckless affair with Tom, Lily & Matthew take things at a much slower pace.
This is the first book I’ve read by the author & it certainly won’t be the last. I'm not a fan of books that span two different eras but this time I loved it. This was a well written at times harrowing read that took me on a plethora of emotions & left me drained. The characters were well portrayed & had plenty of depth & were very likeable. The more I read the more I became completely engrossed & read well into the night to finish it. The descriptions of what Matthew saw & endured often had tears coursing down my face & brought home the brutality of war. If you’re looking for a light fluffy read then this isn't the book for you but I loved the mix of romance &istory
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Abby Reese lives a quiet life on an apple farm in Wisconsin. Tormented by survivor’s guilt after the tragic deaths of her mother and brother, Abby leaves the orchards as little as possible, keeping her life small, peaceful and safe. Until she is contacted by Englishman Simon Elliot, who arrives nursing a heartbreak of his own, and bearing a World War Two medal that he claims belonged to Abby’s grandfather, Tom which for some reason his grandmother Sophie wanted Simon to return it to Tom
Together they begin to piece together the heartbreaking story of their relatives’ war. But as the story brings Abby and Simon closer—tentatively beginning to lean on one another to heal—they uncover a dark secret from the past.
1944, London:
Sophie & Lily Mather work as typists & live in Clapham Common where they meet two Gis Tom Reese & the enigmatic Matthew Lawson. Whilst Sophie starts a reckless affair with Tom, Lily & Matthew take things at a much slower pace.
This is the first book I’ve read by the author & it certainly won’t be the last. I'm not a fan of books that span two different eras but this time I loved it. This was a well written at times harrowing read that took me on a plethora of emotions & left me drained. The characters were well portrayed & had plenty of depth & were very likeable. The more I read the more I became completely engrossed & read well into the night to finish it. The descriptions of what Matthew saw & endured often had tears coursing down my face & brought home the brutality of war. If you’re looking for a light fluffy read then this isn't the book for you but I loved the mix of romance &istory
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 25, 2023
Mam słabość do historii z wojną w tle. Czytałam mnóstwo książek z tego gatunku i ciężko jest mnie zaskoczyć czymś nowym, to jednak zawsze sięgam po nie z ogromną przyjemnością. Tak też było w przypadku najnowszej powieści Kate Hewitt „W godzinie próby”. Pierwszą powieścią Kate Hewitt, którą miałam przyjemność przeczytać była „Dziewczyna z Berlina”. Do dzisiaj pamiętam, ile emocji wywołała we mnie ta historia. „W godzinie próby” jest trzecią książką Kate, którą miałam przyjemność przeczytać i choć nie zachwyciła mnie tak, jak pierwszy tytuł, to uważam, że czas, jaki spędziłam z lekturą, nie był stracony.
Historia, którą oddała w nasze ręce Kate Hewitt, rozgrywa się na dwóch płaszczyznach czasowych.
Londyn, 1944. Młoda Lily Mather pracuje w biurze Marynarki Wojennej. Jej każdy dzień w pracy wygląda tak samo, piszę listy do rodzin z informacją o śmierci żołnierza. Gdy pewnego dnia wraz z siostrą Sophie, poznają dwóch przystojnych żołnierzy amerykańskich, nie zdają sobie nawet sprawy z tego, jak diametralne zmiany zajdą w ich życiu. Sophie jest zauroczona Tomem Reese, który jest niezwykle otwartym i wesołym mężczyzną. Z kolei Matthew Lawson jest skryty i milczący, ale nie przeszkadza to Lili. Z czasem dziewczyna odkrywa prawdę o Matthew. Czy będzie w stanie sprostać wyznaniu mężczyzny? Jak tajemnica Matthew wpłynie na dalsze losy Lili?
Czasy współczesne.
Abby Reese mieszka wraz z ojcem na farmie w Ash ford, gdzie wspólnie prowadzą spokojne i uporządkowane życie. Pewnego dnia do ich domu przyjeżdża Simon Elliot. Mężczyzna jest w posiadaniu medalu, który po wojnie Tom Reese, dziadek Abby, podarował go babci Simona. Czy Abby I Simo dowiedzą się, co łączyło dziadka Abby i babcię Simona w czasie wojny?
Kate Hewitt stworzyła niezwykle ciekawą i piękną historię, którą czytałam z ogromnym zaangażowaniem. Kto zna pióro autorki, ten wie, że ma ona niesamowity talent do tworzenia bardzo poruszających powieści. „W godzinie próby” to historia, która rozgrywa się na dwóch płaszczyznach czasowych. Przyznaję, że część dotycząca czasów współczesnych nie do końca przypadła mi do gustu, choć rozwiązanie zagadki było na swój sposób intrygujące. Mnóstwo emocji wywołała we mnie część, w której autorka kreśli losy Lili i Matthew. Łącząca ich relacja, i to, z czym przyszło im się zmierzyć, zrobiły na mnie ogromne wrażenie. Chłonęłam rozdziały im poświęcone z niezwykłą przyjemnością, momentami ze ściśniętym gardłem przyglądałam się wydarzeniom, z jakimi przyszło im się zmierzyć.
Niewątpliwe Kate Hewitt po raz kolejny stworzyła powieść, od której czytelnik nie może, a nawet nie chce się oderwać. „W godzinie próby” to piękna i bardzo poruszająca historia, przepełniona wieloma emocjami, obok której miłośnicy literatury wojennej nie mogą przejść obojętnie.
Historia, którą oddała w nasze ręce Kate Hewitt, rozgrywa się na dwóch płaszczyznach czasowych.
Londyn, 1944. Młoda Lily Mather pracuje w biurze Marynarki Wojennej. Jej każdy dzień w pracy wygląda tak samo, piszę listy do rodzin z informacją o śmierci żołnierza. Gdy pewnego dnia wraz z siostrą Sophie, poznają dwóch przystojnych żołnierzy amerykańskich, nie zdają sobie nawet sprawy z tego, jak diametralne zmiany zajdą w ich życiu. Sophie jest zauroczona Tomem Reese, który jest niezwykle otwartym i wesołym mężczyzną. Z kolei Matthew Lawson jest skryty i milczący, ale nie przeszkadza to Lili. Z czasem dziewczyna odkrywa prawdę o Matthew. Czy będzie w stanie sprostać wyznaniu mężczyzny? Jak tajemnica Matthew wpłynie na dalsze losy Lili?
Czasy współczesne.
Abby Reese mieszka wraz z ojcem na farmie w Ash ford, gdzie wspólnie prowadzą spokojne i uporządkowane życie. Pewnego dnia do ich domu przyjeżdża Simon Elliot. Mężczyzna jest w posiadaniu medalu, który po wojnie Tom Reese, dziadek Abby, podarował go babci Simona. Czy Abby I Simo dowiedzą się, co łączyło dziadka Abby i babcię Simona w czasie wojny?
Kate Hewitt stworzyła niezwykle ciekawą i piękną historię, którą czytałam z ogromnym zaangażowaniem. Kto zna pióro autorki, ten wie, że ma ona niesamowity talent do tworzenia bardzo poruszających powieści. „W godzinie próby” to historia, która rozgrywa się na dwóch płaszczyznach czasowych. Przyznaję, że część dotycząca czasów współczesnych nie do końca przypadła mi do gustu, choć rozwiązanie zagadki było na swój sposób intrygujące. Mnóstwo emocji wywołała we mnie część, w której autorka kreśli losy Lili i Matthew. Łącząca ich relacja, i to, z czym przyszło im się zmierzyć, zrobiły na mnie ogromne wrażenie. Chłonęłam rozdziały im poświęcone z niezwykłą przyjemnością, momentami ze ściśniętym gardłem przyglądałam się wydarzeniom, z jakimi przyszło im się zmierzyć.
Niewątpliwe Kate Hewitt po raz kolejny stworzyła powieść, od której czytelnik nie może, a nawet nie chce się oderwać. „W godzinie próby” to piękna i bardzo poruszająca historia, przepełniona wieloma emocjami, obok której miłośnicy literatury wojennej nie mogą przejść obojętnie.
May 14, 2020
Into the Darkest Day is Kate Hewitt's first foray into historical fiction and she has written an interesting and intriguing story. Whilst reading this story the book underwent a title change and to be honest I didn't see the necessity for this as I think the previous title suited it perfectly, i'd love to know the reason behind the change. I know titles play such an important role in the writing and publication of a book but despite the change it didn't detract from my overall understanding and enjoyment of the Abby and Lily's story. This is a very good first effort for someone writing in a totally new genre to them and as I love historical fiction and have read so much of it, I know what I want and look forward to in this type of read.
Lots of the elements I love were present, the dual time line going back and forth between the present and the years of World War Two, a difficult love story and a mystery. But I felt that the author has just touched on her true potential in relation to this genre and just a little bit more depth and even more mystery at times would have elevated this book to another level. Of course, I did enjoy it but when the big reveal came and connections were made I was left wanting that little bit more. I understood the reasons and sentiments for characters actions when the moment of truth came but I wasn't left reeling in shock or with that feeling of boy were on earth did that came from? How could I have missed that clue etc? I would have loved to have been thrown off track a little bit more and to be left completely reeling with the outcomes and repercussions. Saying all that and I don't mean any of it in a truly negative way as they are observations that struck me whilst reading. Pushing these aside there was a good story well told, a little slow at times but then around the half way mark it does pick up in terms of pace, character development and a sense of things being uncovered.
Abby Reese lives in America on her family's apple tree farm with her father David. She has a strained relationship with her father as they both navigate around the ghosts of the past, of things left unsaid and of emotions buried deep inside. The death of her mother and brother many years ago has left lasting scars and the pair seem to tiptoe around each other never expressing their feelings or saying what is on their mind. It is like they are stuck in a moment in time unable to move forward as the past drags them back yet neither are willing to open up. Abby had so many plans for her future but they were all cancelled as guilt eats her up and a sense of sorrow, loss and devastation just seems to emanate throughout the house and their daily lives.
Abby was a person who needed someone from outside her very small family circle to come into her life and give her a different perspective on the situation she found herself in. She literally did nothing except work on the farm and run the little gift shop with her friend Shannon. It was like she didn't want to experience pleasure or enjoyment in life because of the loss she had suffered and the impact it had had on her father. I figured there had to be more going on than what initially came across because despite the tremendous loss and suffering she had experienced you do have to move forward at some stage. But has Abby forgotten how to do this or is there something making her feel the compulsion to remain in the mindset she is in? Should a moment truly define the rest of her life when really no matter the circumstances forgiveness and healing can be sought and found?
As English man Simon Elliott arrives with something to give David, a whole can of worms is opened up that takes Abby on a journey with Simon back into the past. Maybe as they try and find out the origins of a Purple Heart medal awarded to her grandfather Tom during the war some surprises and home truths may emerge. Simon brought a whole new dimension to the story and it was as if he was the catalyst that would slowly help Abby emerge from the cocoon she had created for herself. But this wouldn't be easy as David doesn't want to hear what Simon has to say. Simon himself was hiding some things emotionally and it was because of this he found a kindred spirit in Abby. But if I had to choose I would have thought he was the stronger of the pair and more determined to face things head on and uncover the mystery behind the medal his grandmother Sophie was determined should be reunited with its owner.
As enjoyable as the present day setting was I much preferred when the book had chapters told from Lily's perspective during World War Two. She lives with her parents and sister Sophie in London and out of the two siblings is seen as the quiet one of the pair who would never put a step wrong. Lily feels like a pale shadow in comparison to the glamorous, outgoing and confident Sophie. Lily works as a Wren writing letters in an office to the families of those who have lost loved ones in battle, the burden of having to do so wears heavily on her. But with the arrival of the American GI's into Britain the girls lives are changed especially when two soldiers, Matthew and Tom, are invited to their house for Sunday dinner.
Tom is brash and outgoing and someone who would suit Sophie down to the ground but Matthew is a different kettle of fish. He seems under strain, reserved and not that willing to let go and enjoy nights at Rainbow Corner like the others do. Maybe he would be the perfect match for Lily. But Lily senses that Matthew perhaps is hiding something and with a little sleuthing she finds out things that she probably wishes she had never seen. But these surprise elements set in motion a very interesting strand to the story. Finally here was something that was gripping and thoroughly held my attention.
In the later half of the book we gain a deep insight into the mind, methods and motivations of Matthew. It certainly was something I had never previously read about in relation to the war and it amazes me that after all this time there are new elements still to be unearthed. Matthew without doubt was the stand out character in this book and when the chapters focused on his experiences of war and the reasons why he did certain things I was completely engrossed. Admittedly some of the scenes were horrifying and distressing to read but they needed to be there as they helped me to understand the connection with the cross which is what brought Simon to America in the first place. Going back to the point as to whether a moment should define us really hit home in relation to Matthew and a certain pivotal moment in the book.
Into the Darkest Hour was at times a mixed bag for me. There were definitely parts that held my attention more than others and I can see that the author has lots of promise when it comes to writing in the historical fiction genre but not everything fully hit the mark for me. This is a good and enjoyable read but just not one that will have me remembering the finer details in the months to come.
Lots of the elements I love were present, the dual time line going back and forth between the present and the years of World War Two, a difficult love story and a mystery. But I felt that the author has just touched on her true potential in relation to this genre and just a little bit more depth and even more mystery at times would have elevated this book to another level. Of course, I did enjoy it but when the big reveal came and connections were made I was left wanting that little bit more. I understood the reasons and sentiments for characters actions when the moment of truth came but I wasn't left reeling in shock or with that feeling of boy were on earth did that came from? How could I have missed that clue etc? I would have loved to have been thrown off track a little bit more and to be left completely reeling with the outcomes and repercussions. Saying all that and I don't mean any of it in a truly negative way as they are observations that struck me whilst reading. Pushing these aside there was a good story well told, a little slow at times but then around the half way mark it does pick up in terms of pace, character development and a sense of things being uncovered.
Abby Reese lives in America on her family's apple tree farm with her father David. She has a strained relationship with her father as they both navigate around the ghosts of the past, of things left unsaid and of emotions buried deep inside. The death of her mother and brother many years ago has left lasting scars and the pair seem to tiptoe around each other never expressing their feelings or saying what is on their mind. It is like they are stuck in a moment in time unable to move forward as the past drags them back yet neither are willing to open up. Abby had so many plans for her future but they were all cancelled as guilt eats her up and a sense of sorrow, loss and devastation just seems to emanate throughout the house and their daily lives.
Abby was a person who needed someone from outside her very small family circle to come into her life and give her a different perspective on the situation she found herself in. She literally did nothing except work on the farm and run the little gift shop with her friend Shannon. It was like she didn't want to experience pleasure or enjoyment in life because of the loss she had suffered and the impact it had had on her father. I figured there had to be more going on than what initially came across because despite the tremendous loss and suffering she had experienced you do have to move forward at some stage. But has Abby forgotten how to do this or is there something making her feel the compulsion to remain in the mindset she is in? Should a moment truly define the rest of her life when really no matter the circumstances forgiveness and healing can be sought and found?
As English man Simon Elliott arrives with something to give David, a whole can of worms is opened up that takes Abby on a journey with Simon back into the past. Maybe as they try and find out the origins of a Purple Heart medal awarded to her grandfather Tom during the war some surprises and home truths may emerge. Simon brought a whole new dimension to the story and it was as if he was the catalyst that would slowly help Abby emerge from the cocoon she had created for herself. But this wouldn't be easy as David doesn't want to hear what Simon has to say. Simon himself was hiding some things emotionally and it was because of this he found a kindred spirit in Abby. But if I had to choose I would have thought he was the stronger of the pair and more determined to face things head on and uncover the mystery behind the medal his grandmother Sophie was determined should be reunited with its owner.
As enjoyable as the present day setting was I much preferred when the book had chapters told from Lily's perspective during World War Two. She lives with her parents and sister Sophie in London and out of the two siblings is seen as the quiet one of the pair who would never put a step wrong. Lily feels like a pale shadow in comparison to the glamorous, outgoing and confident Sophie. Lily works as a Wren writing letters in an office to the families of those who have lost loved ones in battle, the burden of having to do so wears heavily on her. But with the arrival of the American GI's into Britain the girls lives are changed especially when two soldiers, Matthew and Tom, are invited to their house for Sunday dinner.
Tom is brash and outgoing and someone who would suit Sophie down to the ground but Matthew is a different kettle of fish. He seems under strain, reserved and not that willing to let go and enjoy nights at Rainbow Corner like the others do. Maybe he would be the perfect match for Lily. But Lily senses that Matthew perhaps is hiding something and with a little sleuthing she finds out things that she probably wishes she had never seen. But these surprise elements set in motion a very interesting strand to the story. Finally here was something that was gripping and thoroughly held my attention.
In the later half of the book we gain a deep insight into the mind, methods and motivations of Matthew. It certainly was something I had never previously read about in relation to the war and it amazes me that after all this time there are new elements still to be unearthed. Matthew without doubt was the stand out character in this book and when the chapters focused on his experiences of war and the reasons why he did certain things I was completely engrossed. Admittedly some of the scenes were horrifying and distressing to read but they needed to be there as they helped me to understand the connection with the cross which is what brought Simon to America in the first place. Going back to the point as to whether a moment should define us really hit home in relation to Matthew and a certain pivotal moment in the book.
Into the Darkest Hour was at times a mixed bag for me. There were definitely parts that held my attention more than others and I can see that the author has lots of promise when it comes to writing in the historical fiction genre but not everything fully hit the mark for me. This is a good and enjoyable read but just not one that will have me remembering the finer details in the months to come.
March 5, 2021
I don’t often like dual timelines but this one….this one just blew me away. I absolutely fell in love with the story line, the characters, the writing style. Every single bit of this book was phenomenal.
I loved the way the author vividly portrayed the WWII era. It truly came to life for me. I felt every single raw emotion that these beautiful characters felt. The pain, the love, the intensity that feels each page is truly soul capturing.
If you love history, if you love attention to detail, if you love beautifully created characters then look no further than this captivating novel. This author’s work is some I won’t soon forget. I will be recommending this one with 4 stars and two thumbs up!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
I loved the way the author vividly portrayed the WWII era. It truly came to life for me. I felt every single raw emotion that these beautiful characters felt. The pain, the love, the intensity that feels each page is truly soul capturing.
If you love history, if you love attention to detail, if you love beautifully created characters then look no further than this captivating novel. This author’s work is some I won’t soon forget. I will be recommending this one with 4 stars and two thumbs up!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
July 29, 2022
A beautiful WW2 historical and my first book by Kate Hewitt. Meticulously researched and stunningly written, I loved the characters and the descriptions of the war and bombings. The story came to life on the pages!
Part 1 of the book was effortless. Part 2 dragged a bit, with a lot of telling, which slowed the story for me.
But a very worthy 4.5 stars for this gorgeous tale! I’ll be reading more from this author.
Part 1 of the book was effortless. Part 2 dragged a bit, with a lot of telling, which slowed the story for me.
But a very worthy 4.5 stars for this gorgeous tale! I’ll be reading more from this author.
April 25, 2023
Jak trudne potrafią być relacje między najbliższymi, kochającymi się ludźmi?
W swojej książce Kate Hewitt przeplata historie przyjaźni i miłości z czasów II wojny światowej z tą aktualną, dzisiejszą. Abby i Simon - dwójka młodych ludzi próbuje dowiedzieć się co łączy ich przodków. Znajdując pamiątki po swoich dziadkach i docierając do coraz to nowszych informacji, odkrywają tajemnice, którymi nie łatwo się dzielić. Czy poza rozwikłaniem sekretu, skrywanego przez lata odnajdą coś więcej?
Jak pisze sama autorka "...bez względu na okoliczności zawsze można odnaleźć przebaczenie i sposób na zagojenie ran?". Mocno w to wierzę, a ta książka jeszcze bardziej mnie w tym umacnia.
W swojej książce Kate Hewitt przeplata historie przyjaźni i miłości z czasów II wojny światowej z tą aktualną, dzisiejszą. Abby i Simon - dwójka młodych ludzi próbuje dowiedzieć się co łączy ich przodków. Znajdując pamiątki po swoich dziadkach i docierając do coraz to nowszych informacji, odkrywają tajemnice, którymi nie łatwo się dzielić. Czy poza rozwikłaniem sekretu, skrywanego przez lata odnajdą coś więcej?
Jak pisze sama autorka "...bez względu na okoliczności zawsze można odnaleźć przebaczenie i sposób na zagojenie ran?". Mocno w to wierzę, a ta książka jeszcze bardziej mnie w tym umacnia.
April 2, 2022
Excellent!!
On of the most moving WW2 stories I have ever read. Beautifully written, and very well researched.
I can't recommend this book highly enough!
On of the most moving WW2 stories I have ever read. Beautifully written, and very well researched.
I can't recommend this book highly enough!
February 13, 2024
mid af. I wish they focused more on the past then the present. present pov unneeded IMO
July 14, 2020
I requested this book on Netgalley months ago. And i’m just now able to finally sit down to read it. I honestly forgot what it was about. So I was going in blind!
Now having read the whole book. I jumped on Goodreads to read the synopsis. I was pretty shocked to see that this book was about Lily and Mathew! Because I felt this book was more about Tom & Sophie
I mean... now that I think abut this book. There should’ve been more Lily and Mathew situations.
And this book also went through a name change. It use to be The Forgotten heart.
This book starts off with the descendants of Second Lieutenant Tom Reese And a women he met while stationed in England Sophie Mather.
She had a sister named Lily Mather.
Abby is Tom’s granddaughter And Simon is the grandson of Sophie. Before Sophie passed away she asked her grandson to return something to the Reese family. That’s how Abby and Simon’s path cross.
Tom met the Mathers through church. Tom and another fellow servicemen Staff Sergeant Matthew Lawson were invited to dinner at Sophie & Lily’s House. They were excited! Two American servicemen going to have dinner at their house! Right away Sophie and Tom hit it off.
Sophie was a wild one. She wanted to live the fast life. Lily on the other hand was opposite. Very quiet, very much like you would expect a lady to act in those times.
The story takes you back In forth between past & present. But it was kinda slow. And like I said... I forgot what this book was about. Right away I thought this book was about Tom and Sophie’s love story! That what it seemed to me. Because Lily and Mathew were kind off with each other. Very cold feelings from Mathew.
Lily and Mathew were interesting. But I didn’t feel anything because both their characters were quite. Mathew was a little mysterious but he didn’t seem to open up at all with Lily. When he finally did talk to her. It was very friend like.
Abby... Tom’s niece was a hard character to like. She was so rude and defensive all the time.
These are some of the words I would use to describe Abby.
Prickly, standoffish, boring.
She was constantly throwing mini tantrums with people whenever they would ask certain questions she didn’t want to answer. She was 32 years old but acted much older.
“Honestly. I’m very dull. I’ve been thinking about that all evening, how very boring I must seem to you. I haven’t gone anywhere, or done anything, except live and work on this orchard, which is actually fine, if a bit dull to the outsider.”
I didn’t like her. And it was hard for me throughout the whole book. Her and her dad gave Simon a hard time with trying to get information about Tom. And the reason why the dad didn’t want to talk about it was big at the time it happened. But years later shouldn’t have been a big deal to tell. Embarrassing yes... but everyone involved had already passed away.
When Simon was asking Abby questions about herself. Her answers seemed off to me. The college Talk was a big huh and why?!
She said she wanted to Major in German, If she had went to college! I mean why?! She didn’t even know why! I thought that was so random and made no sense at all.
“University of Wisconsin Madison.” She spoke dismissively, as if it hadn’t mattered. “I wanted to major in German—how ridiculous is that?”
“I’m not sure what I would have done with a degree in German. I think I chose it just because I liked my high school German teacher. I did study the Second World War, a little, as part of it. Not that it helps with any of this.”
I just thought that was so weird... then add to the fact that I didn’t like her character. It was just too much.
This book was interesting and sad. But, I just wish there was more between Lily and Mathew. Because the whole Story seem to focus on Tom and Sophie. Even the ending between them was so fast and rushed. We just get a little flash of what happened to them.
I mean... I would’ve liked to read about them. Their life together.
Overall... I’m kinda disappointed. This book wasn’t what I was expecting.
*ARC provided by Bookouture via Netgalley*
Now having read the whole book. I jumped on Goodreads to read the synopsis. I was pretty shocked to see that this book was about Lily and Mathew! Because I felt this book was more about Tom & Sophie
I mean... now that I think abut this book. There should’ve been more Lily and Mathew situations.
And this book also went through a name change. It use to be The Forgotten heart.
This book starts off with the descendants of Second Lieutenant Tom Reese And a women he met while stationed in England Sophie Mather.
She had a sister named Lily Mather.
Abby is Tom’s granddaughter And Simon is the grandson of Sophie. Before Sophie passed away she asked her grandson to return something to the Reese family. That’s how Abby and Simon’s path cross.
Tom met the Mathers through church. Tom and another fellow servicemen Staff Sergeant Matthew Lawson were invited to dinner at Sophie & Lily’s House. They were excited! Two American servicemen going to have dinner at their house! Right away Sophie and Tom hit it off.
Sophie was a wild one. She wanted to live the fast life. Lily on the other hand was opposite. Very quiet, very much like you would expect a lady to act in those times.
The story takes you back In forth between past & present. But it was kinda slow. And like I said... I forgot what this book was about. Right away I thought this book was about Tom and Sophie’s love story! That what it seemed to me. Because Lily and Mathew were kind off with each other. Very cold feelings from Mathew.
Lily and Mathew were interesting. But I didn’t feel anything because both their characters were quite. Mathew was a little mysterious but he didn’t seem to open up at all with Lily. When he finally did talk to her. It was very friend like.
Abby... Tom’s niece was a hard character to like. She was so rude and defensive all the time.
These are some of the words I would use to describe Abby.
Prickly, standoffish, boring.
She was constantly throwing mini tantrums with people whenever they would ask certain questions she didn’t want to answer. She was 32 years old but acted much older.
“Honestly. I’m very dull. I’ve been thinking about that all evening, how very boring I must seem to you. I haven’t gone anywhere, or done anything, except live and work on this orchard, which is actually fine, if a bit dull to the outsider.”
I didn’t like her. And it was hard for me throughout the whole book. Her and her dad gave Simon a hard time with trying to get information about Tom. And the reason why the dad didn’t want to talk about it was big at the time it happened. But years later shouldn’t have been a big deal to tell. Embarrassing yes... but everyone involved had already passed away.
When Simon was asking Abby questions about herself. Her answers seemed off to me. The college Talk was a big huh and why?!
She said she wanted to Major in German, If she had went to college! I mean why?! She didn’t even know why! I thought that was so random and made no sense at all.
“University of Wisconsin Madison.” She spoke dismissively, as if it hadn’t mattered. “I wanted to major in German—how ridiculous is that?”
“I’m not sure what I would have done with a degree in German. I think I chose it just because I liked my high school German teacher. I did study the Second World War, a little, as part of it. Not that it helps with any of this.”
I just thought that was so weird... then add to the fact that I didn’t like her character. It was just too much.
This book was interesting and sad. But, I just wish there was more between Lily and Mathew. Because the whole Story seem to focus on Tom and Sophie. Even the ending between them was so fast and rushed. We just get a little flash of what happened to them.
I mean... I would’ve liked to read about them. Their life together.
Overall... I’m kinda disappointed. This book wasn’t what I was expecting.
*ARC provided by Bookouture via Netgalley*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2020
4.5*
“I feel sad, and somehow ashamed by it, too. I’m not sure why. It’s just so hard to believe people are capable of such evil.”
I was excited to read Kate Hewitt’s book, Into the Darkest Day - her first venture into historical fiction - and what an interesting and intriguing story she has given her readers. The book had a title change even though I thought the previous title had suited it perfectly. It has everything I look for in a historical read - dual timeline, mystery to be solved and a heartfelt love story.
‘How strange, he thought, not for the first time, that so much has changed, and all because of people who will never know how they’ve affected me. Helped me. Helped us.’
I found that the switches between timelines to be smooth, however, the historical tale was definitely the stronger of the two. I did not fully appreciate the contemporary tale with the exception of it providing good solid links to the historical one - that was an added bonus. The connection between the two tales surrounding ‘survivors guilt’ was a good one though and Kate drew strong parallels in both timelines.
‘He wanted this man—this paltry, pathetic little tool of the Fuhrer, a tiny cog in the vast machinery of the Nazi party—to know who he was. What he was.’
Into the Darkest Day is an emotional read with rich descriptions of London bombings and concentration camp liberations that are shocking in the telling. To balance this is an uplifting romance that gives a happy ending for some. Kate, a prolific writer, has done a fabulous job with her first foray into historical fiction - a story filled with strength and courage as the past must be laid to rest when the opportunity for new beginnings comes along.
‘She didn’t want any more secrets. She didn’t want to keep them; she didn’t want to stay silent about yet another thing in her life, or someone’s else life. And she didn’t want to throw away the promise of something—someone—good...’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
“I feel sad, and somehow ashamed by it, too. I’m not sure why. It’s just so hard to believe people are capable of such evil.”
I was excited to read Kate Hewitt’s book, Into the Darkest Day - her first venture into historical fiction - and what an interesting and intriguing story she has given her readers. The book had a title change even though I thought the previous title had suited it perfectly. It has everything I look for in a historical read - dual timeline, mystery to be solved and a heartfelt love story.
‘How strange, he thought, not for the first time, that so much has changed, and all because of people who will never know how they’ve affected me. Helped me. Helped us.’
I found that the switches between timelines to be smooth, however, the historical tale was definitely the stronger of the two. I did not fully appreciate the contemporary tale with the exception of it providing good solid links to the historical one - that was an added bonus. The connection between the two tales surrounding ‘survivors guilt’ was a good one though and Kate drew strong parallels in both timelines.
‘He wanted this man—this paltry, pathetic little tool of the Fuhrer, a tiny cog in the vast machinery of the Nazi party—to know who he was. What he was.’
Into the Darkest Day is an emotional read with rich descriptions of London bombings and concentration camp liberations that are shocking in the telling. To balance this is an uplifting romance that gives a happy ending for some. Kate, a prolific writer, has done a fabulous job with her first foray into historical fiction - a story filled with strength and courage as the past must be laid to rest when the opportunity for new beginnings comes along.
‘She didn’t want any more secrets. She didn’t want to keep them; she didn’t want to stay silent about yet another thing in her life, or someone’s else life. And she didn’t want to throw away the promise of something—someone—good...’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 19, 2020
What a lovely story. Simon the Englishman, travels to America to reunite a Purple Heart with the family of the man to whom it was awarded. Abby, grandfather Tom has given it to Simons grandmother as a keepsake at the end of WWII. But...Abby knows very little about her grandfather and her father is adamant about not uncovering the past. So Simon and Abby set out to learn more about her grandfather and why he himself had another man’s WWII amidst his belongings. Family secrets, survivors guilt, and love intertwine in the time hopper novel.
It’s a bit slow at times but the intensity of WWII totally makes up for it. What I loved most about this book is something that you don’t always see in, survivors guilt. One of the main characters from the past, Matthew is a German Jewish refugee who was able to escape to America and ultimately joined the army as an interrogator. While it’s Important to him to serve his new country well, he aches to know what has happened to his family. That plagued him throughout the war...especially when the camps are discovered and liberated. The same goes for Abby who holds herself accountable for a terrible tragedy in her family. Simon also struggles with some familial issues and together they are able to start over in a way and it’s all thanks to digging up the past.
This book represents another Eason why I love WWII fiction so much...there are so many different perspectives. And you learn so much...like the Ritchie boys from this book who I’d never heard of before. They were a group of Jewish German immigrants trained by the army to be interrogators. They returned to their homeland and faced evil in the eye under the safety net of the American Flag. Such an interesting chapter of the war and I’m so glad I was made aware of it thanks to this novel!
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the chance to read this a little early!
It’s a bit slow at times but the intensity of WWII totally makes up for it. What I loved most about this book is something that you don’t always see in, survivors guilt. One of the main characters from the past, Matthew is a German Jewish refugee who was able to escape to America and ultimately joined the army as an interrogator. While it’s Important to him to serve his new country well, he aches to know what has happened to his family. That plagued him throughout the war...especially when the camps are discovered and liberated. The same goes for Abby who holds herself accountable for a terrible tragedy in her family. Simon also struggles with some familial issues and together they are able to start over in a way and it’s all thanks to digging up the past.
This book represents another Eason why I love WWII fiction so much...there are so many different perspectives. And you learn so much...like the Ritchie boys from this book who I’d never heard of before. They were a group of Jewish German immigrants trained by the army to be interrogators. They returned to their homeland and faced evil in the eye under the safety net of the American Flag. Such an interesting chapter of the war and I’m so glad I was made aware of it thanks to this novel!
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the chance to read this a little early!
May 12, 2020
Holding Secrets Close
Into the Darkest Day is a story of war, it is a story of the aftermath and the consequences that continue to the future. Can one ever forgive themselves for a moment of weakness? Does that one action dictate the rest of their life? It did so for one soldier. What will happen when the granddaughter finds the secret years later.
It is the story of Matthew and Lily who met during the war. Matthew held his secret tight but told Lily before he left London for the front. Will this secret keep him and Lily from having a life together after the war?
Finally it is the story of Simon and Abby. Years later they get together to try and find out the connection between Simon's grandmother Sophia and Abby Grandfather Tom. What secret does her father not want her to know? Will Simon and Abby figure it out and will it change her life.
Simon and Paul both hold secrets close to their heart that they are afraid to tell each other. Eventually they do tell the secrets they each hold close. How will this change their budding relationship? How will it change the relationship between Abby and her father?
This is a book about Romance and about secrets. It is a book about relationships and how they can either go wrong or blossom. The book is sad and heartbreaking at times and it is romantic at others. It is a testimony to the aftermath of war and the things those involved saw and felt.
The book was well written and the characters were realistic and believable. The settings were well described. I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Kate Hewitt, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Into the Darkest Day is a story of war, it is a story of the aftermath and the consequences that continue to the future. Can one ever forgive themselves for a moment of weakness? Does that one action dictate the rest of their life? It did so for one soldier. What will happen when the granddaughter finds the secret years later.
It is the story of Matthew and Lily who met during the war. Matthew held his secret tight but told Lily before he left London for the front. Will this secret keep him and Lily from having a life together after the war?
Finally it is the story of Simon and Abby. Years later they get together to try and find out the connection between Simon's grandmother Sophia and Abby Grandfather Tom. What secret does her father not want her to know? Will Simon and Abby figure it out and will it change her life.
Simon and Paul both hold secrets close to their heart that they are afraid to tell each other. Eventually they do tell the secrets they each hold close. How will this change their budding relationship? How will it change the relationship between Abby and her father?
This is a book about Romance and about secrets. It is a book about relationships and how they can either go wrong or blossom. The book is sad and heartbreaking at times and it is romantic at others. It is a testimony to the aftermath of war and the things those involved saw and felt.
The book was well written and the characters were realistic and believable. The settings were well described. I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Kate Hewitt, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy in return for an honest review.
July 24, 2020
I really wish I could say I liked this book but I just did not emotionally connect to this one. I myself am the great granddaughter of a WWI vet and granddaughter of a RCAF WWII pilot and no matter what will always appreciate a story written about all the brave men and women of any and all wars. Thank to all writers who keep the memories of the past alive.
What I liked about this book: Matthew and Lily’s stories. The Richie boys was new to me and well written. Battle scenes were handled beautifully and the descriptions of the bombings. The love story between these two felt natural, organic, lovely. You rooted for their happy ending
What I didn’t like: Abby! This character was hard to connect too, Abby felt like an empty, shallow person. It felt like she was a means to an end. That’s also how her relationship with Simon felt. There were definitely parts I skimmed to get back to Matthew and Lily
I wish more of the book had focused on the past and maybe given more depth to Tom and Sophie. They sort of felt like pointless characters
What I liked about this book: Matthew and Lily’s stories. The Richie boys was new to me and well written. Battle scenes were handled beautifully and the descriptions of the bombings. The love story between these two felt natural, organic, lovely. You rooted for their happy ending
What I didn’t like: Abby! This character was hard to connect too, Abby felt like an empty, shallow person. It felt like she was a means to an end. That’s also how her relationship with Simon felt. There were definitely parts I skimmed to get back to Matthew and Lily
I wish more of the book had focused on the past and maybe given more depth to Tom and Sophie. They sort of felt like pointless characters
June 8, 2020
This was an interesting read. The war, in Paris. Bombings, soldiering, and heartbreak.
This was truly a gripping and thrilling novel about WW2, and I was absolutely drawn into the story, in so many different ways.
The scenes and the mystery surrounding the GI were breathtaking, and the scenes with the sisters were heartrending.
And then you have the modern story woven into the historical one -- the one about the farmer and the historian looking for answers.
And those scenes are just as touching, just as poignant.
Normally, in a book like this, one part is better, more interesting, more intriguing than the others. But this one . . . both parts left me longing, equally, for the others. And I enjoyed it so much!
As a caution, there were a few words. There was some mention of inappropriate behaviour. There was kissing. Hence the three star rating.
I would recommend this for the historical aspect.
I am thankful to the publisher for a copy of this book to read!
This was truly a gripping and thrilling novel about WW2, and I was absolutely drawn into the story, in so many different ways.
The scenes and the mystery surrounding the GI were breathtaking, and the scenes with the sisters were heartrending.
And then you have the modern story woven into the historical one -- the one about the farmer and the historian looking for answers.
And those scenes are just as touching, just as poignant.
Normally, in a book like this, one part is better, more interesting, more intriguing than the others. But this one . . . both parts left me longing, equally, for the others. And I enjoyed it so much!
As a caution, there were a few words. There was some mention of inappropriate behaviour. There was kissing. Hence the three star rating.
I would recommend this for the historical aspect.
I am thankful to the publisher for a copy of this book to read!
September 5, 2023
Enjoyed! Bit of a mystery between present and past.
April 10, 2020
The Forgotten Heart is emotional story that grabbed me immediately! The story jumps between present day to the mid 1940’s, Kate Hewitt does a fantastic job telling two storylines that are brilliantly woven together. I found the characters engaging and lovely! The storyline is thought out and so, so original—loved that! The Forgotten Heart is a 5 star novel that I highly recommend!
May 21, 2020
A story about two sisters who meet two soldiers during WW2. This book is told in dual timelines. I’ve read several books by this author and really liked them all. This book dragged at times. It had some sad parts but also happy parts. Historical fiction fans will enjoy this book. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy
July 26, 2024
Mieszanie wątku romansu z czasów drugiej wojny światowej na przemian z wątkami pochodzącymi z teraźniejszości i w mieszanie w to jeszcze wątek kolejnej bliskiej relacji zasługuje na wyróżnienie. Nie jest to najlepsza książka jaką czytałam , na kilku sytuacjach się trochę zawiodłam
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