London Dawn

The Danforths of Lancashire #3

by Murray Pura

Readers everywhere are clamoring for books like Downton Abbey, the hit PBS Masterpiece Theater series that's taken America by storm. Those readers have become enthusiastic about The Danforths of Lancashire by award-winning author Murray Pura.
In this stunning conclusion to the saga, we find Lord Preston and his family are gathered in London in the late 1930s for what turns out to be a homecoming. The family is finally all together again, gathering in a way they haven't been able to do for years. But looming ahead is the summer and fall of 1940 when both the Battle of Britain and the Blitz will occur. Though the family is blissfully unaware of this soon-to-be reality, Lord Preston, privy to top secret info in his position in the government, has grave concerns; the gravest he's ever had, that England will be invaded. The Danforth family patriarch does his best to hide his fears with a cheerful exterior, but is he successful?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian, Christian Fiction, British Literature, Christian Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2014

About the author

reader, writer, author, free thinker

books published in 2023
KINGFISHER CROSS
NEVENA IN LOVE
CLARA RAVEN
UNDER THE STONES
available on Amazon, B&N, Indigo, etc.

listed for Best Series of the Year Award 2023
Hemingway Award 2022 Seattle
Word Guild Award 2022, 2012 Toronto

Reviews

[Rhonda Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

hmmmm, I must admit that I have only seen Downton Abbey one time and I have not read the other two books in The Danforths of Lancashire series, so how did that affect my perception of this book? I will say that I did have a difficult time getting into the book as I did not always know what was going on or understand the relationships between the characters, but once I got past the first third of the book, I was on pins and needles waiting to see what was coming next. The reading of the book out of order was my own fault, I simply point it out. My own uncle was killed in WWII so reading of so many young people in one family cheerfully heading off to battle for their country was hard for me to read. I did not want to read of a casualty of war anymore than Lord Preston or Eva or Jane might wish to do so. This book will grip the reader and pull until one is right in the pulse of the pages. I felt the use of poetry, scripture and song lyrics was utilized in a beautiful and touching manner in this book. Both men and women readers would find this book to be quite engaging.
I received a free pdf version of this book from netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Marian Baay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, how I enjoyed this last book in The Danforths of Lancashire Series! I even think I enjoyed this one the most of all. I was hooked from the first page where I was back at Ashton Park in 1934 and from there I was thrown right into a tense political situation in Germany with Catherine and Albrecht…and that was just the beginning of the action. The many twists and turns in this book kept me glued to the pages as each time I learned something new about the Danforth family members—they never cease to amaze me.

Several of Lord William and Lady Elizabeth’s grandchildren have joined the Royal Air Force, Navy, and Army. When Hitler starts the air attack on Britain in 1940, Lord Preston cannot do much more than pray for his family while they are flying their Spitfires to defend Britain from the German fighters. But will his prayers be enough to keep them all alive?

This is one of the most powerful fiction books I have read this year. The story is realistic, vividly written, and has a strong plot.
This book touched my heart in many ways; it had my heart racing several times when I witnessed the air battles—I could almost hear the roaring of the Spitfires’ engines and hear the bullets whistle by. There was heart-pounding action in the sea battle—it was like watching a movie as I saw the white caps thrashing the battle ship and heard the seagulls cry. There was heartache when loved ones died, but also heart-stirring romance when grandchildren found new love.

London Dawn was a perfect conclusion of this trilogy, but I hate to say good-bye to the Danforths. I shared in their joy and sorrow and won’t forget them soon.
Praise to the author for writing such an excellent series. Well done, Mr. Pura!

*Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.*

[L · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Lord grant us peace and an incomprehensible joy in the midst of the titanic struggle of these years, indeed, the struggle of our lives.”

A powerfully stirring story of heartrending poignancy and depth that’s astonishingly mind-blowing!

The Danforths of Lancashire: London Dawn by Murray Pura is an exquisite historical novel of remarkable premise and incredible profundity that shakes the soul. As a fan of the hugely successful drama Downton Abbey, I felt this well written and deliciously detailed story encapsulated the past perfectly on the page so as to present a vividly evocative and authentic picture. I was drawn into the dense plot that was so beautifully interwoven with passionate intensity, intriguing sub-plots and thought-provoking resonance as to keep me firmly glued to the page! Within this complex story were well-developed characters, interesting, overlapping storylines and descriptive settings all of which made for a compelling and undeniably fantastic reading experience.

Not customarily a reader of Historical- Christian fiction I was most surprised to find how readable this sensational sequel was, hence I cannot wait to discover books 1 & 2 in The Danforths of Lancashire series!

Set within 1930’s+ in England during the Second World War this impressive novel took me on an illuminating adventure of memorability into the past (that I shall not forget!). Character-driven at its core ‘London Dawn’ may be a part of a series, although I enjoyed very much reading it as a stand-alone novel that was supremely easy-to-read. In this third instalment Murray Pura tells the compelling story of a loving family who face tough times to come, as Hitler and his Nazi regime are on the move from Poland to France, heading significantly towards Great Britain. The sense of impending danger looming on the close horizon adds to the nail-biting suspense, with the War deepening as those fighting for their Country battle on with the aim of preserving freedom.

Anyone interested in ambitious literary works of fiction related to WW2 {i.e. Students, historians, bibliophiles etc.} Or those who appreciate the finer qualities of the genre; for instance Jane Austen or classics, I highly recommend this distinctly impacting novel & series. Melting romance, human tragedy and poignant exhibitions of immorality all highlight the inhumane acts of Warfare and how the Second World War left such a lasting impression upon families and society - - so as to shape our world today.

*As a devout Christian and having my own blood relatives fight and fall in both WW1 and also WW2, I was able to connect to this novel on a very personal level. *

I won a signed, physical copy + postcard of Murray Pura’s extraordinary book “The Danforths of Lancashire: London Dawn” (book 3 in a series) through a first-read giveaway on Goodreads.

To find out more… www.murraypura.com
http://www.pinterest.com/myrrhh/murra...

[SD · Rating 4 out of 5]

The most engaging book in The Danforth of Lancashire is "London Dawn". Through the third book in the series, Murray Pura develops the lives of selected characters in greater depth. The author personalizes the impact of World War II in late 1930's on Danforth family. Through the hearts and minds of the characters the reader gains a new perspective on perseverance during dark and challenging times. I appreciated the integration of a positive world life view in the storyline. While being realistic about pain, suffering, sorrow and sacrifice, the author weaves a message of stability, confidence and hope to a trouble world. While the book is a fictional historical novel, the author is writing for the contemporary reader. With multiple directed and subtle voices, Murray Pura seeks to answer fundamental questions of life and death. Murray Pura presses the characters and the reader to explore answers to several basic questions. Where is God during times of trouble? How can God allow forces of hate, brutality, destruction and genocide rampage the world? Why does God appear to be absent during times of war, illness or worldwide pandemic? In times of immense personal, national and global anxiety, Murray Pura delivers a profound providential message to new generation.

[Joleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

1920s Dover, England and Germany
Rise of Hitler
The history portion of this book was fascinating. Very well done.
But the storyline was interminable and too Payton Place-ish for my taste.

[writer... · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canadian author, Murray Pura, writes at the top of his game in this family saga, The Danforths of Lancashire, keeping me spell bound for this final installment of the trilogy.

LONDON DAWN amazed with gripping and well researched historical battle scenes and the impact of war that repeatedly tested the Danforth family's strength and character. Loved it.

Compelling WWII story replete with life, death, betrayal, and romance .
What I loved? It was filled with Light in the midst of war's destruction.
Tears? Definitely, yes. Yet hope prevails.
My heart remained captured by actions and relationships long after the cover closed.







Posted at Faith Hope & Cherrytea
#timetoread - LONDON DAWN - First read for the National Readathon Day [Jan 24th.15]
Reading globally at librarything.com

[Elentarien · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well. . .that's done.

Ok, so, all in all - this was good reading. The story (stories?) were interesting and the overall setting was engaging. I was not bored at any point (well, maybe a little during the political stuff. lol). There were quite a few 'errors'/mistakes/bad editing. Characters mixed up, sentences that were. . .less than clear and should have been reworked, cultural 'errors' (IE, Lord Preston sitting in his 'back yard'. Um. Last I heard, they don't have 'back yards' in London, they have 'gardens'. Same thing, as far as I can tell, but - yeah, try to get it right? I have no problem with writing something set in a 'culture' that is not your natively, but I do believe in trying to get details right as much as possible!)

Personally, I still found there was WAAAAY too many characters and way too man years sped by to really get to know or love any character all that much. But. . .yeah.

But errors and personal preference aside, this was a very intriguing series. I did find the last part of the book a little confusing and hard to read. Once the bomb storm started and people started dying. . .it got REALLY hard to keep track of what was going on and who was dead and who wasn't and . . .yeah. I can't say I care for this was handled at all. I get not everyone could reasonably survive. . .but yeah.

All in all, worth the read - but - not a favourite.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the first two books with no problem. At the end of the second book it was headed towards WWII. Starting the third book did not disappoint me it brought out all the ugliness of war. However, I had to start this book over four times.

The Danforth’s very wealthy and very religious put all their faith in God. It was incredible how they were able to move on especially after losing family members. The author described the bombing of London and the country homes of the Danforth’s in very great detail. You couldn’t help but get emotional and even pray that nothing happens to the family but of course the story was written.

Scripture written throughout the book indicated that the Danforth’s faith was strong and it made me think of mine.

The author described the events of WWII, I believe, as a reminder of the ugliness of war.

[Helenk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am really sad to have this series end--much as I was with Downton Abbey. I am amazed at the perspectives that this book brought forth. I realize (I was born in 1949) how much my education was whitewashed. I was unaware of the many facets in Great Britain and how violent they could become. I also found it interesting that it was pointed out the USA would send their regrets as to what was happening in Europe, bu that they would not participate until some of their ships were sunk. The British people as well as the rest of Europe endured much. Highly recommend if you are interested in historical fiction.

[Sandra Commins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this third installment of the Danforth series. One of the things that makes a story special for me is feeling like the characters are dear friends. The Danforth family is like that for me. I appreciated their deep faith and there honesty in the struggles they faced. I hurt with them in the losses they experienced and was glad for the happy times in their life. I would definitely read more stories about this family. Any chance the series will be continued?

[Cathy Barwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome trio of books!

Loved each book in the series. The characters were awesome and though there was much loss I feel like I know a little more about what the war was like.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes the hardest part about reaching a great series, is its conclusion. For those that love to immerse themselves in a virtual place in the world's historical past and those that LOVE series like Downton Abbey, best-selling author Murray Pura takes us back to the time period between WW1 and WW2 in London Dawn, the third novel in the Danforths of Lancashire. While meant to be read as part of the series, a first time reader can immediately get caught up in the unfolding action that immediately happens within the first few pages. The Danforth family has been separated by the ongoing war as Hitler and his troops begin to advance on Germany. While Professor Albrecht and Lady Catherine are being hunted for arrest for his refusal to join the Nazi party, his lectures, his protest against the firing of Jewish professors but most of all for being the author of anonymous books and pamphlets popping up all over Germany. Aided by their friend the baron, they immediately are forced to leave in the dead of night and try to gain access to their family home in Switzerland. But trying to get there will try their faith as they begin their nightly covert trek to the border along with their children, Sean and Angelika.

The patriarch of the Danforth family, Lord Preston can sense that Hilter's power is growing as he begins to consume one country after another while all he can do is stand by and pray for his son's safety. His sons, Edward, Kipp and Robbie, have all joined in the fight to put an end to the Nazi tyranny making its way across the country in the various branches of the military. As Hitler begins his air assault, the Spitfires as called into action to defend Britain from his German fighters. You can gain a sense for just how intense this action is and Murray does an amazing job by literally writing you right into the cockpit to join in the battle.

His attention to detail as the Danforth family is brought into the war in a variety of ways shows that even the elite and wealthy were not immune to the effects of the war. Much like the writer of Downton Abbey, Murray Pura isn't afraid to tell it like it needs to be, and casualties from the war will impact the Danforth family. Most authors create a shield around their characters so that even your best loved character will remain unscathed but not in this case. That aspect as well as the rich detail from history literally puts you in the middle of the action from hearing Churchill's speech to the destruction that England had to face as it battered and bombed. It reminds you of how much England had to endure during WW2 and how war affected this family as you take part of their pain in dealing with the horrors of the war.

I received London Dawn by Murray Pura compliments of Harvest House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This novel took me back to the way families had to cope with the realities of war. There was no escaping it no matter how wealthy you were. It's a chilling reminder of historically how some families dealt with war, how they struggled with not knowing the outcome of their children and husbands, and if they would ever be reunited again. I can't wait to see if Murray will continue to take us back to those historical notable times and remind us in a vastly different way what those times were like for those living in them. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars and hope to see more novel series like this in the very near future.

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murray Pura in his new book, “London Dawn” Book Three in The Danforths of Lancashire series published by Harvest House Publishers takes us back into the lives of The Family Danforth.

From the Back Cover: “The Lord grant us peace and an incomprehensible joy in the midst of the titanic struggle of these years, indeed, the struggle of our lives.”

So prays Danforth family patriarch Lord Preston as Adolf Hitler and his Nazi regime are on the move. First Poland…then France…and now heading in the direction of Great Britain.

In response to the coming danger, the Danforth sons–Edward, Kipp and Robbie–join up to fight the encroaching Nazi tyranny. As the war deepens, others must join in the fight. Grandson, sons-in-law and the women too all must do their duty to preserve freedom.

Who among the family will die amid the horrors of war? And who will return to the arms of their loved ones? Who will once again walk the green grass of Ashton Park, the beloved family estate? Who will survive to carry on the Danforth family legacy? In this stunning conclusion to the Danforths of Lancashire family saga, Author Murray Pura renders the drama, pathos and tragedy that was World War II on every fast-turning page.

This book covers the time period from 1934 until 1941. It is more than a story about the Danforth family it is a story of history. The end of World War I, the war to end all wars, and the rebuilding of Great Britain and the lives of the Danforth family. Nobody believed that there would be a Second World War and, even if there was, it wouldn’t happen so soon. I am sorry to see this series end. I really like these characters, all of them actually. The Danforth family feels as though they were my family. And that is just the characters we haven’t talked about the story yet. Murray Pura knows how to write great stories and “London Dawn” is a great story. Set aside the chores, order take out for dinner, make yourself comfortable because once you get started reading “London Dawn” you are not going to want to stop until the pages run out–and even then. This book will keep you up late until you finish it so I recommend that you start reading early. Mr. Pura has given us a great read and I am hoping that he can be persuaded to write another trilogy with this amazing family.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Harvest House Publishers for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Kate (The Shelf Life) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am sad to see that London Dawn is the conclusion to The Danforths of Lancashire series. I have enjoyed experiencing the lives of this family as they have moved between WW1 and WW2.

Murray Pura has done a fantastic job of bringing history back to life with this series. London Dawn takes place soon after Beneath the Dover Sky ends. You are drawn back into the lives of the Danforths as they watch Hitler's power grow in Germany and as he throws the treaty that was made for peace in the face of England and the other countries after WW1. Lord Preston realizes that a war could be on the horizon for his country again, but so far, he watches as Hitler pushes into the the surrounding countries of Germany, but not before Hitler shows off the wonders of a Nazil Germany during the Olympics.

As the story unfolds, you see that the historical detail is just fantastic. The speeches that were given by Chamberlain and Churchill as the war machine cranked into high gear are presented in the story. As the conflict built, the Danforths are all present to witness the dark days that descended on London. Sadly, the Danforths are not immune to the casualties of war or the persuasive pull of Hitler's Youth brain wash.

The story really captured my attention. It's hard to imagine at times all that England endured in WW2. The devastation of the people and their families at the hands of Hitler and his Nazis and how long they endured on their own. The RAF dealt with blow after blow, then the onslaught of the Blitz. It is all present in London Dawn and after "growing up" with this family, you feel a connection to them and you feel their pain as they deal with the horrors of the war.

The history is fantastic and the story blended in so well. It was a gripping story!

Thank you to Harvest House, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I have never read the first two books in this series, I was quite interested in this series given that it was set during WWII and alluded to being very much Downton Abbey-esque. I will admit I was quite confused as to who the characters and their relationships to each other at times, especially at the beginning it started to make more and more sense as the book led on. The use of the Bible and songs were wonderfully done.

There were times in which I found it a bit slow, for my tastes, but it soon picked up again relatively soon. It seemed to be that way for a little bit in the middle, but it picked up during the last hundred pages. Many characters were very realistic and reminded me of people I knew, while some seemed like they could have been more "complete". While I wanted to hate some characters, Eva most of all, Pura did a great job at making the character adapt and change. Other characters I couldn't sympathize with at all, but alas we all have our favorites and our least favorites!

For those who are interested in historical fiction, especially WWII, you would probably enjoy this series a lot. Over all it was a very good series and I do plan on reading the prior two books in the series.


Finally, I received this as a Goodreads first read and am required to give an honest review.

[Cathenry · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love Downton Abby or any other British historical fiction books, then this is a nice complement.
I picked up this trilogy (this being the third book) to bid my time between the waiting before the next season of the BBC show. Each could be a stand alone read but it's more fun to read it from the beginning.

No controversies or questionable topics here except lightly touched on. Great Christian Historical fiction of the period in England and Ireland that spans the period between World War I up to and before World War II. The women are very strong in this book.

Easy peasy read, entertaining, surprising and enjoyable.

[kerrycat · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conclusion to this sweeping family saga is bittersweet and heartbreaking. Some of the historical background reads like a history lesson, but the dramatic and life-threatening wartime events involving the family are gripping and realistic. A gratifying series-ender.

The growing Danforth family finds another war at its doorstep, with some of the adult children and older teenage grandchildren in important military roles. Romance between cousins adds complications, as does a family member’s Fascist leanings and a step-grandson’s involvement in the Hitler Youth. (HARVEST HOUSE, Feb., 384 pp., $13.99)
Reviewed by:
Kerry Sutherland
- See more at: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-rev...

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Danforth cousins come of age, fall in love, and go to war, as the saga continues in this final installment of The Danforths of Lancashire. at the dawning of WWII.

Reading this last book in the series, I was sad to say goodbye to this remarkable family, I feel as if I have watched all of the cousins grow up together as they grew in their faith, fell in love, and came of age.

Meticulously researched, and full of detail, Mr. Pura brings his settings to life in this family saga that follows multiple members of the Danforth family as they do their best to serve their country during this time of war.

Overall, a good conclusion to a great family saga.

[Susan Beamon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 3 of the Danforths of Lancashire,a family saga that started before the first World War. This installment of the story covers the beginning of the Second World War, 1934 through 1941, through the eyes and lives of the second and third generations of the family. I found it was not important to have read the first two books in this series, since I had not read them and was not lost as to who was who. There is a fair amount of history on the homefront of England, which is very nice. Our primary characters are the upper crust of English society, so for all the lovers of Downton Abbey and Upstairs Downstairs, all of that pomp is present, although on the historic tailend of it.

[Cyndi Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this most amazing book, thus finishing the series. I highly recommend this entire series to serious readers of historical fiction.

Pura takes his readers on an epic journey through Europe during the rise of Hitler and the period of WWII before the United States joined the fight. The size of the Danforth family allows him to place characters is all sectors of the war, but he still makes each man, woman, pilot, sailor, WAAF, and soldier very believable. I particularly appreciated the deep spiritual life of Lord Preston, the patriarch of the Danforth family. The scripture and prayers were so seamlessly written into the story.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book immerses the reader in the lives of the people of England at the beginning of WW II when Germany was attacking and the United States had not entered the war yet. It was interesting, but it took me a little while to become truly interested in the characters. I didn't like Jane at first, as she seemed self-centered and immature to me, but I began to like her more as the story went on. There is also lots of battle detail, but it is well done. If you like WW II fiction, it is an enjoyable read.

[Raili · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my, I just finished this book and don't know what to say. It was absolutely wonderful and I think my favourite of the series, although they are all great, so it's hard for me to choose! I laughed, I cried, I felt like I was one of the family and right there with them going through everything as well. Murray Pura has such a way with words. He pulls you right into the story and makes you feel what the characters are feeling. All in all, the whole series was marvellous!!

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little too soap opera"y", but a diversion in the Downton mode.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series and especially this book. So much history in all three books of the time between WWI and the start of WWII. Highly recommend!!!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sad to see this family go.