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The Midwives' War
'See that patch of blue sky, ' he said. 'Whenever you see one, that's where I'll be - thinking of you.' Against the chaotic backdrop of World War II, Grace Murphy is working as a midwife in Doncaster Royal Infirmary with her two friends, Clodagh and Patsy. In between delivering babies and tending wounded airmen, the girls endure bombing raids, rationing and the hardships and heartbreak that war brings. But in the faces of the new babies she welcomes to the world, Grace always looks for hope, as she dreams of a time when the war will end. When the midwives get the chance to go to a dance at the nearby RAF Finningly, they jump at the offer. The hangar is crowded with happy dancing couples but when the glamourous Spitfire pilots saunter in, looking dashing in their leather flying jackets and brightly coloured silk scarves, Grace can't resist taking a peek. And the moment Grace meets pilot, Richard Carmichael, she knows he will capture her heart. With every daring flying raid, Grace and Richard risk losing each other forever. All Grace can do is look out for Richard in the patches of blue sky, and hope that fate will bring them their very own wartime happy-ever-after... Chrissie Walsh is back with this heart-breaking tale of love against the odds, perfect for fans of Fenella Miller, Daisy Styles and Margaret Dickinson. What readers are saying about Chrissie 'Chrissie Walsh is a wonderful writer who brings the past to life and will make readers feel as if they are living the story and not just reading it. Her characters are strong and resourceful protagonists who find themselves with no other choice but to battle against all the obstacles in their way.' 'This was a very, very, very good read from start to finish I didn't want to put it down.' 'What a great story, didn't want it to end. Great characters and certainly made great reading. Looking forward to reading more from this author.' 'What a lovely book the story flowed beautifully. The characters were introduced slowly so as not to confuse the reader and they all brought something different to the book.' 'Just brilliant! From the first page to the last I was completely enthralled.'
292 pages, Hardcover
Published August 18, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 13, 2023
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
"To love and be loved is a very precious thing, even when the person you shared that love with is no longer part of your life...You carry it with you through life and it gives you the strength to keep on looking for the patch of blue sky."
1942: As bombs are falling, in a little corner of Yorkshire babies are being born under the care of three midwives - Grace Murphy, Clodagh Flynn and Patsy O'Grady. Three Irish nurses who came to England where nurses were desperately needed in light of the war. It's at Doncaster Royal Infirmary where these three nurses trained in midwifery join the maternity team and in their own way make their mark.
It's a Friday evening when Grace and Clodagh finish their shift and return to the house they share with Patsy, and after a meal, they don their gladrags and head to the local RAF airbase where a dance is underway. There, Grace meets handsome pilot Richard Carmichael and the pair fall hopelessly in love. But life as a fighter pilot is a short one and tomorrow may never come. Richard vowed never to involve himself seriously with a girl under these circumstances but upon meeting Grace all that fell by the wayside. They were soulmates destined to be together despite their different backgrounds. He from Yorkshire aristocracy (so his mother would have everyone believe) while she is a Catholic girl from County Clare. But none of that matters to them for they know they were meant to be together.
But when tragedy strikes, Richard finds comfort in Grace's arms and in her bed but upon returning to base is dealt another blow that sees him fall further into the depths of despair and thus he makes a rash decision from which there is no coming back from. Whilst Grace finds herself in trouble but by then it is too late as she receives a heartbroken letter and no way of reaching Richard. She too finds herself in the depths of despair, pregnant and alone. No job, no home and nowhere safe for her and her baby. She cannot return to Ireland and be branded a wanton woman and bringing shame on her family.
Alone with no prospects and nowhere to go, Grace must find her own way in the world and make a home for herself and her child.
1969: In a care home nestled in Yorkshire, Richard Carmichael ruminates over his life and the box in which he keeps his most precious mementos. A silk scarf from his time as a pilot, a photo of him and the lads who never got to come home, a photo of a pretty nurse who still holds his heart and the brooch he had specially made for her. His daughter Sara sees him and the memories it evokes and wonders of the story that lays there untold. She thought her mother was the great love of his life but as her father begins his story, she discovers the truth of his greatest love and the regret he has carried since.
Oh my. I was not prepared for the emotions this story evoked. I devoured it in one sitting and was in tears by its final pages. It is such a moving, heartbreaking tale that envelops you completely. I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much as I did but oh I did. I will never look up at and see that patch of blue sky again without being moved.
A truly delightful tale. Keep on looking for that patch of blue sky.
I would like to thank #ChrissieWalsh, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheMidwivesWar in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
"To love and be loved is a very precious thing, even when the person you shared that love with is no longer part of your life...You carry it with you through life and it gives you the strength to keep on looking for the patch of blue sky."
1942: As bombs are falling, in a little corner of Yorkshire babies are being born under the care of three midwives - Grace Murphy, Clodagh Flynn and Patsy O'Grady. Three Irish nurses who came to England where nurses were desperately needed in light of the war. It's at Doncaster Royal Infirmary where these three nurses trained in midwifery join the maternity team and in their own way make their mark.
It's a Friday evening when Grace and Clodagh finish their shift and return to the house they share with Patsy, and after a meal, they don their gladrags and head to the local RAF airbase where a dance is underway. There, Grace meets handsome pilot Richard Carmichael and the pair fall hopelessly in love. But life as a fighter pilot is a short one and tomorrow may never come. Richard vowed never to involve himself seriously with a girl under these circumstances but upon meeting Grace all that fell by the wayside. They were soulmates destined to be together despite their different backgrounds. He from Yorkshire aristocracy (so his mother would have everyone believe) while she is a Catholic girl from County Clare. But none of that matters to them for they know they were meant to be together.
But when tragedy strikes, Richard finds comfort in Grace's arms and in her bed but upon returning to base is dealt another blow that sees him fall further into the depths of despair and thus he makes a rash decision from which there is no coming back from. Whilst Grace finds herself in trouble but by then it is too late as she receives a heartbroken letter and no way of reaching Richard. She too finds herself in the depths of despair, pregnant and alone. No job, no home and nowhere safe for her and her baby. She cannot return to Ireland and be branded a wanton woman and bringing shame on her family.
Alone with no prospects and nowhere to go, Grace must find her own way in the world and make a home for herself and her child.
1969: In a care home nestled in Yorkshire, Richard Carmichael ruminates over his life and the box in which he keeps his most precious mementos. A silk scarf from his time as a pilot, a photo of him and the lads who never got to come home, a photo of a pretty nurse who still holds his heart and the brooch he had specially made for her. His daughter Sara sees him and the memories it evokes and wonders of the story that lays there untold. She thought her mother was the great love of his life but as her father begins his story, she discovers the truth of his greatest love and the regret he has carried since.
Oh my. I was not prepared for the emotions this story evoked. I devoured it in one sitting and was in tears by its final pages. It is such a moving, heartbreaking tale that envelops you completely. I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much as I did but oh I did. I will never look up at and see that patch of blue sky again without being moved.
A truly delightful tale. Keep on looking for that patch of blue sky.
I would like to thank #ChrissieWalsh, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheMidwivesWar in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
September 8, 2023
Chrissie Walsh’s “The Midwives’ War” invites readers to step into the poignant and turbulent world of World War II, where love and hope flourish amidst the chaos of conflict.
Set against the backdrop of Doncaster during the war, this novel takes us on a compelling journey through the lives of Grace Murphy and her two friends, Clodagh and Patsy, who are working as midwives at the Doncaster Royal Infirmary.
The story paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by these brave women as they navigate the perils of delivering babies and tending to wounded airmen in a war-torn world.
The narrative beautifully captures the essence of the era, from the relentless bombing raids to the heartaches of rationing, all of which are vividly brought to life by the Walsh’s evocative storytelling.
At the heart of the story is Grace Murphy, a character whose resilience and determination shine through even in the darkest of times. As she looks into the eyes of the newborns she delivers, Grace finds hope and dreams of a future beyond the war, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.
One of the most captivating aspects of “The Midwives’ War” is the romance that unfolds against the backdrop of wartime Doncaster. When Grace meets the dashing Spitfire pilot, Richard Carmichael, sparks fly, and their love story becomes a beacon of hope in the midst of uncertainty. Chrissie Walsh skilfully weaves their love, passion, and sacrifices into the narrative, leaving readers emotionally invested in their journey.
The author’s attention to historical detail is commendable, transporting readers back in time to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of WWII. The descriptions of the RAF Finningly dance and the glamorous Spitfire pilots in their leather flying jackets and silk scarves are particularly enchanting.
As Grace and Richard face the perilous challenges of wartime, their love is put to the test, and readers will find themselves eagerly turning pages to discover their fate.
Chrissie Walsh crafts a story that is both heart warming and heart-wrenching, capturing the essence of love against the odds.
“The Midwives’ War” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. With its well-drawn characters, meticulously researched historical backdrop, and a story that tugs at the heartstrings, this novel is a must-read for fans of wartime romance and historical fiction.
Chrissie Walsh once again proves her prowess as a storyteller who brings the past to life, making her readers feel as if they are living the story and not just reading it. Highly recommended!
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.
Set against the backdrop of Doncaster during the war, this novel takes us on a compelling journey through the lives of Grace Murphy and her two friends, Clodagh and Patsy, who are working as midwives at the Doncaster Royal Infirmary.
The story paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by these brave women as they navigate the perils of delivering babies and tending to wounded airmen in a war-torn world.
The narrative beautifully captures the essence of the era, from the relentless bombing raids to the heartaches of rationing, all of which are vividly brought to life by the Walsh’s evocative storytelling.
At the heart of the story is Grace Murphy, a character whose resilience and determination shine through even in the darkest of times. As she looks into the eyes of the newborns she delivers, Grace finds hope and dreams of a future beyond the war, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.
One of the most captivating aspects of “The Midwives’ War” is the romance that unfolds against the backdrop of wartime Doncaster. When Grace meets the dashing Spitfire pilot, Richard Carmichael, sparks fly, and their love story becomes a beacon of hope in the midst of uncertainty. Chrissie Walsh skilfully weaves their love, passion, and sacrifices into the narrative, leaving readers emotionally invested in their journey.
The author’s attention to historical detail is commendable, transporting readers back in time to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of WWII. The descriptions of the RAF Finningly dance and the glamorous Spitfire pilots in their leather flying jackets and silk scarves are particularly enchanting.
As Grace and Richard face the perilous challenges of wartime, their love is put to the test, and readers will find themselves eagerly turning pages to discover their fate.
Chrissie Walsh crafts a story that is both heart warming and heart-wrenching, capturing the essence of love against the odds.
“The Midwives’ War” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. With its well-drawn characters, meticulously researched historical backdrop, and a story that tugs at the heartstrings, this novel is a must-read for fans of wartime romance and historical fiction.
Chrissie Walsh once again proves her prowess as a storyteller who brings the past to life, making her readers feel as if they are living the story and not just reading it. Highly recommended!
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.
July 7, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was set during the war in 1942-45. It was an inspiring read and possessed how some kept a strong positive attitude amidst severe injuries and death all around them. By the end I wanted to cry but also cheered on the heroine in the story.
August 20, 2023
The Midwives War by Chrissie Walsh is a powerful, heartfelt historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The action is set during World War II and also in 1969.
We see the devastating effects of war on lives. Some are cruelly cut short. Others cannot cope with loss. All lives are altered. Some have scars that cannot be seen – bitterness and the hardening of a heart after so much loss, leads a character to live a very different life than the one planned. War robs all of their innocence.
All the characters were realistic and likable. The leading lady was admirable. She kept her good heart pure, no matter what life threw at her. She knew that for healing, sometimes tough love was required. She also practiced sacrificial love.
Values during war altered. The motto carpe diem – seize the day – was often employed as tomorrow was not guaranteed.
The women in the novel were strong characters. Their ability to press through and to keep going was to be praised. No matter what hand life dealt, the leading lady kept on moving forwards, although a little of her heart remained stuck in the past.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Midwives War. It was both entertaining and heartwarming.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set during World War II and also in 1969.
We see the devastating effects of war on lives. Some are cruelly cut short. Others cannot cope with loss. All lives are altered. Some have scars that cannot be seen – bitterness and the hardening of a heart after so much loss, leads a character to live a very different life than the one planned. War robs all of their innocence.
All the characters were realistic and likable. The leading lady was admirable. She kept her good heart pure, no matter what life threw at her. She knew that for healing, sometimes tough love was required. She also practiced sacrificial love.
Values during war altered. The motto carpe diem – seize the day – was often employed as tomorrow was not guaranteed.
The women in the novel were strong characters. Their ability to press through and to keep going was to be praised. No matter what hand life dealt, the leading lady kept on moving forwards, although a little of her heart remained stuck in the past.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Midwives War. It was both entertaining and heartwarming.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2023
The story is set during the second world war and starts with the story of Irish Grace Murphy, working as a young midwife at Doncaster royal infirmary with her two friends. During a time if death, Grace loves to bring babies into the world and help their mothers. Grace always looks for hope and always thinks about life after the war finishes. When the midwives get the opportunity to go to an RAF dance, they are all happy to go and enjoy themselves. The dancefloor is full of happy people having a good night, which takes their mind of all the hardship they are going through. The the glamorous Spitfire pilots enter the room and everybody looks up. Even Grace does. When Richard Carmichael comes to her, the moment she meets him she knows her evening just changed. And her life. They try to spend every possible moment together, the patches of white clouds what holds them together... even with a war which makes things hard.
I chose to join this blog tour to try out The midwives' war, but had low expectations. I normally do not choose this kind of stories and so I was expecting a story of romance, drama, lots of crying and things seeming to be okay, then not and so on. Without much of a content. I was very wrong. Chrissie Walsh managed to write a beautiful story about two good people going through hardship nobody asked for or can change. Two people who love life and each other, while they also now their duty to their country. The story plays between the second World War and present time, which is a really nice part of this story. I enjoyed the characters, bothe Grace and Richard but also the side characters. The story has a good and interesting content and made me enjoy this story very much.
I chose to join this blog tour to try out The midwives' war, but had low expectations. I normally do not choose this kind of stories and so I was expecting a story of romance, drama, lots of crying and things seeming to be okay, then not and so on. Without much of a content. I was very wrong. Chrissie Walsh managed to write a beautiful story about two good people going through hardship nobody asked for or can change. Two people who love life and each other, while they also now their duty to their country. The story plays between the second World War and present time, which is a really nice part of this story. I enjoyed the characters, bothe Grace and Richard but also the side characters. The story has a good and interesting content and made me enjoy this story very much.
August 23, 2023
Grace, Clodagh and Patsy share a house in Doncaster where they work as midwives at the local hospital. In their precious time off they enjoy socialising and it is at a dance at RAF Finningly where Grace meets the handsome, and charismatic, spitfire pilot, Richard Carmichael. The life of a fighter pilot is fraught with danger and soon, like all sweethearts during WW2, Grace is caught between worrying about Richard's safety and keeping her spirits up during their absences.
Grace is such a lovely young woman that you can't help but want her life to run smoothly but of course fate has a nasty way of interfering and both Grace and Richard find that they have some difficult decisions to make along the way. Equally both Clodagh and Patsy also have to make the best of what wartime life brings and I enjoyed following them over the course of the story, particularly Clodagh who has her own challenges to face.
Beautifully written from start to finish, and rich in historical detail, The Midwives’ War is a warm and compassionate story about making the best of what life throws at you and of the value of friends who step in when the going gets tough. The author writes with a compassionate look at the intricacies of war-time romances whilst at the same time describing just what life was like during the middle years of the war, when love and life couldn't be taken for granted. This lovely story certainly tugs away at the heartstrings and I was so emotionally invested in the story that I didn't notice time passing.
November 10, 2023
This is a tale of love and loss during WW2. Grace, a midwife, and Richard, a fighter pilot, fall madly in love in the midst of the raging world war. This book had me caring not only for Grace and Richard but also for the friends who were on the sidelines in the story. I felt this book showed the sense of community between people quite well, showed the importance of duty for the characters extremely well, and somewhat adequately showed the importance of women during WW2, although I feel like this could have been highlighted better, however I do note that this is not the premise of the book.
I truly felt the love and tragedy in this book, how it all played out was saddening but yet amazing. Though a work of fiction, it depicts a reality for many couples during that time period and that, for me, was what made this even sadder. The writing was slow and at time I cringed when reading the old fashioned terms used for the sex scenes, it jumps quite a bit and you’re left putting some smaller pieces of the story together which is what put this at 3 stars.This book is a good read if you like romance / tragedy books and are interested by the time period the book is set in.
I truly felt the love and tragedy in this book, how it all played out was saddening but yet amazing. Though a work of fiction, it depicts a reality for many couples during that time period and that, for me, was what made this even sadder. The writing was slow and at time I cringed when reading the old fashioned terms used for the sex scenes, it jumps quite a bit and you’re left putting some smaller pieces of the story together which is what put this at 3 stars.This book is a good read if you like romance / tragedy books and are interested by the time period the book is set in.
August 27, 2023
The Midwives’ War begins in 1942 and follows Grace Murphy and her 2 nursing friends Patsy and Clodagh who all share a house together and work at the Doncaster Royal Infirmary delivering babies and taking care of wounded airmen. Grace meets Richard and we follow the heartbreak they both suffer through the the years of love and loss.
Whenever I see a Chrissie Walsh book I know that it’s going to be a brilliant read and I wasn’t disappointed with this one either. Like all of her books it had me completely engrossed from the beginning to the end. I loved all the wonderful characters who were all so well written that you felt you knew them personally and I could visualise them in my head as though I was there with them. The story itself is a beautiful inspiring story about love and loss during the Second World War and each chapter tells a story.
The Midwives’ War is an emotional and feel good read with a beautiful, sad but uplifting story and I loved it. Well written as always and I highly recommend reading it 😊
Whenever I see a Chrissie Walsh book I know that it’s going to be a brilliant read and I wasn’t disappointed with this one either. Like all of her books it had me completely engrossed from the beginning to the end. I loved all the wonderful characters who were all so well written that you felt you knew them personally and I could visualise them in my head as though I was there with them. The story itself is a beautiful inspiring story about love and loss during the Second World War and each chapter tells a story.
The Midwives’ War is an emotional and feel good read with a beautiful, sad but uplifting story and I loved it. Well written as always and I highly recommend reading it 😊
November 28, 2023
Keep your Kleenex handy for this one!
As this story begins the reader will meet Grace, a practicing midwife from Ireland who moved to the UK with two fellow midwives and friends working I initially in London but then moving out of the big city. Life in wartime England brought challenges and opportunities for each of the girls. Some worked out well, others less so. Grace, however, is the main character and when she meets Richard Carmichael at a dance, they quickly fall in love. He is a Spitfire pilot and though his family is quite wealthy, his mother is a horror while his Dad is all he could ask for. When Richard faces several crucial losses in rather short order, he loses his way emotionally and decides he is not worthy of Grace's love and that she would be better off without him. This decision leads to all sorts of challenges for Grace. Told in dual timeline, the answers are all there for the reader by the end of the book. I definitely went through my share of Kleenex in the reading!
As this story begins the reader will meet Grace, a practicing midwife from Ireland who moved to the UK with two fellow midwives and friends working I initially in London but then moving out of the big city. Life in wartime England brought challenges and opportunities for each of the girls. Some worked out well, others less so. Grace, however, is the main character and when she meets Richard Carmichael at a dance, they quickly fall in love. He is a Spitfire pilot and though his family is quite wealthy, his mother is a horror while his Dad is all he could ask for. When Richard faces several crucial losses in rather short order, he loses his way emotionally and decides he is not worthy of Grace's love and that she would be better off without him. This decision leads to all sorts of challenges for Grace. Told in dual timeline, the answers are all there for the reader by the end of the book. I definitely went through my share of Kleenex in the reading!
August 11, 2023
What a truly inspirational story.
As bombs are falling and babies are been born, can they imagine a future full of hope.
In the midwives war 1942, Grace Murphy, Clodagh Flynn and Patsy O'Grady all from Ireland, fully qualified nurses on the maternity ward, Doncaster Royal hospital Yorkshire.
Grace meets handsome pilot Richard Carmichael and both fall helplessly in love, it's a match made in heaven, both from completely different backgrounds, then Grace finds herself in trouble, but it is too late for her and Richard as she received a heartbroken letter to say he is ending their relationship, without a job and a home what will lie ahead for her she can't go back to Ireland she would be branded a shamed woman by her family.
This book is so emotional, I love this authors work that always shines through when you are reading,
every chapter tells a story as we travel through WW2 .
Keep on looking for the patch of blue sky, a feelgood read.
As bombs are falling and babies are been born, can they imagine a future full of hope.
In the midwives war 1942, Grace Murphy, Clodagh Flynn and Patsy O'Grady all from Ireland, fully qualified nurses on the maternity ward, Doncaster Royal hospital Yorkshire.
Grace meets handsome pilot Richard Carmichael and both fall helplessly in love, it's a match made in heaven, both from completely different backgrounds, then Grace finds herself in trouble, but it is too late for her and Richard as she received a heartbroken letter to say he is ending their relationship, without a job and a home what will lie ahead for her she can't go back to Ireland she would be branded a shamed woman by her family.
This book is so emotional, I love this authors work that always shines through when you are reading,
every chapter tells a story as we travel through WW2 .
Keep on looking for the patch of blue sky, a feelgood read.
August 17, 2023
1942, Grace Murphy is a midwifery nurse who works at the Royal Infirmary in Doncaster. Along with her 2 nursing friends, Patsy and Clodagh they share a house together . When they aren’t working they like to go to dances at a nearby RAF camp and it is here one evening that Grace meets pilot, Richard Carmichael. As the bombs of war fall and Richard faces death every time he flies the spitfire , can they manage to stay together ?
This is yet another book by Chrissie Walsh that I absolutely loved and it had me completely captivated from the very first chapter. The characters were extremely well written and as I read the book I felt that I personally knew them and could actually visualise them as I was reading. Each chapter of this book was wonderful to read and as I was nearing the end of the book I actually felt sad it was nearly over. An emotional and also uplifting read and I adored it .
This is yet another book by Chrissie Walsh that I absolutely loved and it had me completely captivated from the very first chapter. The characters were extremely well written and as I read the book I felt that I personally knew them and could actually visualise them as I was reading. Each chapter of this book was wonderful to read and as I was nearing the end of the book I actually felt sad it was nearly over. An emotional and also uplifting read and I adored it .
August 17, 2023
Wonderful historical fiction!
This book was a treasure to read. Midwifery only plays a small role in the book, but the female main character, Grace, was a trained midwife and that was her occupation during most of the war years. She remained a nurse, though, and much of her life revolved around her patients.
Grace and Richard had a beautiful romance, despite the war and his mother doing their best to keep them apart. The ravages of war on the mind took its toll, and Richard never knew about his son, Michael. I don't write spoilers, so I can't tell you much about what happened, but I highly recommend that if you enjoy historical wartime fiction with clean romance, this should be on your to-read pile immediately!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
This book was a treasure to read. Midwifery only plays a small role in the book, but the female main character, Grace, was a trained midwife and that was her occupation during most of the war years. She remained a nurse, though, and much of her life revolved around her patients.
Grace and Richard had a beautiful romance, despite the war and his mother doing their best to keep them apart. The ravages of war on the mind took its toll, and Richard never knew about his son, Michael. I don't write spoilers, so I can't tell you much about what happened, but I highly recommend that if you enjoy historical wartime fiction with clean romance, this should be on your to-read pile immediately!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
August 21, 2023
Grace's story is one of hardship. But it is also one of strength and endurance. She was determined to survive. And survive she did.
Grace was kind and good to everyone she met. But if needed, she stood up for herself.
I haven't read a book like this in a long time. I cried when she cried. I was concerned everytime Grace found herself in a terrible predicament. I cheered when she survived.
What a story!! It made me quite emotional. It made me think of my maternal grandmother's family. My great grandfather served in WWI. He never returned. He died in Egypt. My great grandmother became a widow at a young age and had 4 or 5 children. My grandmother was only 2 years old. Life would never be the same.
Believe me, I will look up any other books by Chrissie Walsh.
#BoldwoodBookClub
#ChrissieWalsh
#rararesources
Grace was kind and good to everyone she met. But if needed, she stood up for herself.
I haven't read a book like this in a long time. I cried when she cried. I was concerned everytime Grace found herself in a terrible predicament. I cheered when she survived.
What a story!! It made me quite emotional. It made me think of my maternal grandmother's family. My great grandfather served in WWI. He never returned. He died in Egypt. My great grandmother became a widow at a young age and had 4 or 5 children. My grandmother was only 2 years old. Life would never be the same.
Believe me, I will look up any other books by Chrissie Walsh.
#BoldwoodBookClub
#ChrissieWalsh
#rararesources
August 21, 2023
A truly inspirational story of the hardships faced during the war. Three Midwives life's are told and for me I really loved the characters and how they are portrayed even the not so nice ones. It was touching and heartbreaking to read about the hardships faced and the lives lost and how it affects the loved ones who are left griefing. I enjoyed the midwife side of things and was a little disappointed that it didn't have a bigger part in the story as I love reading about anything to do with nursing. I enjoyed the characters that Grace came to live with especially her elderly patients. There is a little mystery in the book that I won't go into because it would be a spoiler but I will say that I cried happy tears in the end.
March 10, 2024
"Midwife" is a buzz word for me and I often enjoy WWII novels, so no surprise I picked this up. Well, if "midwife" is a buzz word for you -do keep your hopes down as there is little to zero midwifery going on in this book. This is another dual timeline book where the daughter of a dying WWII veteran discovers that her mother was not "the love" of her father's life. I nearly quit reading this early on because I was pretty sure I could predict exactly what was going to happen in both timelines. I'm really glad I stuck with it because it took some twists and turns that I wasn't expecting.
This ended up being an entertaining book that I can recommend to WWII historical fiction fans. I may even look into more by this author.
This ended up being an entertaining book that I can recommend to WWII historical fiction fans. I may even look into more by this author.
June 19, 2025
The Midwives War by Chrissie Walsh (Audiobook read on Hoopla app)
This one basically follows the life of Grace Murphy, who at the beginning of her story is working as midwife with her two friends at Doncaster Royal.
As the war progresses, she meets a spitfire pilot and has a whirlwind romance with him and her life changes. Serious challenges are faced by Grace, yet at every turn she finds people good enough to give her hand up. And she remains eternally grateful.
Then Grace now married with adult children gets a mysterious Girl who has something to give her from a person in her past.
A great little story showing sides of World War II from the Women’s experience and how they met Them, endured, and survived.
This one basically follows the life of Grace Murphy, who at the beginning of her story is working as midwife with her two friends at Doncaster Royal.
As the war progresses, she meets a spitfire pilot and has a whirlwind romance with him and her life changes. Serious challenges are faced by Grace, yet at every turn she finds people good enough to give her hand up. And she remains eternally grateful.
Then Grace now married with adult children gets a mysterious Girl who has something to give her from a person in her past.
A great little story showing sides of World War II from the Women’s experience and how they met Them, endured, and survived.
November 12, 2023
Absolutely beautiful story
Grace, Claddagh and Patsy are young Irish nurse-midwives who come to England during WW II. We see the tragedy of war through their eyes, the impact it has on their loves and their lives as Grace, the sensible one of the trio looks back on the war years as she works in her garden on the Irish farm she shares with her much loved husband, their son and daughter. Unbeknownst to Grace, Sara ,daughter of her first love, Richard is dealing with her father’s impending death by learning of his war years, the first love he never forgot and going in search of Grace to fulfill a death bed promise.
Grace, Claddagh and Patsy are young Irish nurse-midwives who come to England during WW II. We see the tragedy of war through their eyes, the impact it has on their loves and their lives as Grace, the sensible one of the trio looks back on the war years as she works in her garden on the Irish farm she shares with her much loved husband, their son and daughter. Unbeknownst to Grace, Sara ,daughter of her first love, Richard is dealing with her father’s impending death by learning of his war years, the first love he never forgot and going in search of Grace to fulfill a death bed promise.
May 17, 2024
I was enjoying this book then came to a romantic scene that was graphic enough it caused me to be concerned there was going to be more graphic love making ahead. I went back and read the reviews and discovered that was indeed the case. It's disappointing because I love midwifery and I enjoy historical fiction. But it wasn't worth putting in my mind so just deleted it from my Kindle app without finishing it. I had obtained it on AmazonPrime. I wouldn't read any other of her books as I don't like soft core porn disguised as romance.
November 6, 2023
Amazing!!!!
This book shows true friendship and love. It will tug at your heartstrings so many times that you will not be able to put it down. You have to keep reading to see what is going to happen next. It also has mystery and intrigue in it as well. When you think you have it figured out, fate twists things around and sends thing spiraling out of control. Best book I have read so far this year and I have read 60 books in 2023!!!!!
This book shows true friendship and love. It will tug at your heartstrings so many times that you will not be able to put it down. You have to keep reading to see what is going to happen next. It also has mystery and intrigue in it as well. When you think you have it figured out, fate twists things around and sends thing spiraling out of control. Best book I have read so far this year and I have read 60 books in 2023!!!!!
October 19, 2024
En virkelig god roman om kvinders rettigheder - eller mangel på samme. Og om at finde vej i en usikker verden.
Midt i krigens rasen, finder Grace og Richard kærligheden. De regner med, at når krigen er slut, skal de være sammen resten af livet. men sådan kommer det ikke til at gå.
Deres veje skilles, men Grace er gravid og det betyder en usikker fremtid. For ugifte kvinder med børn, har ingen sikkerhedsnet og jobs hænger ikke på træerne.
Virkelig god roman.
Midt i krigens rasen, finder Grace og Richard kærligheden. De regner med, at når krigen er slut, skal de være sammen resten af livet. men sådan kommer det ikke til at gå.
Deres veje skilles, men Grace er gravid og det betyder en usikker fremtid. For ugifte kvinder med børn, har ingen sikkerhedsnet og jobs hænger ikke på træerne.
Virkelig god roman.
August 23, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
a must for call the midwives fans ...you will love this book
3 midwives over from ireland doing their duty in the war all three of them are very different characters but they each bring something to this storyline
well worth a read though
a must for call the midwives fans ...you will love this book
3 midwives over from ireland doing their duty in the war all three of them are very different characters but they each bring something to this storyline
well worth a read though
January 28, 2024
Heartbreaking but beautiful
Beautifully written book of love lost. The language was quaint and lovely to my American mind. “Nipping to the sluice” was not something I’d ever heard before. The strength of character that Grace had was amazing. I was sad that she never had the chance to see Richard again but happy that she found her own happiness.
Beautifully written book of love lost. The language was quaint and lovely to my American mind. “Nipping to the sluice” was not something I’d ever heard before. The strength of character that Grace had was amazing. I was sad that she never had the chance to see Richard again but happy that she found her own happiness.
July 13, 2024
This book had me spellbound to finish, the story is about three young Irish nurses who felt compelled to go to England during the Second World War to help the war effort.The storyline follows one of the Nurses, Grace as she lives through the war and beyond.Not your average war love stories, had me choked up at the end, must read if the war love stories are your read.
February 16, 2025
Love and war.
The author's writing style was engaging, and the characters were well-crafted. The narrative accurately depicted the hardships of World War II, including the challenges of rationing and the societal attitudes towards single mothers. While the story had a somber tone, it ultimately concluded with an uplifting resolution.
The author's writing style was engaging, and the characters were well-crafted. The narrative accurately depicted the hardships of World War II, including the challenges of rationing and the societal attitudes towards single mothers. While the story had a somber tone, it ultimately concluded with an uplifting resolution.
October 19, 2023
Outstanding
I loved the book! I picked it because I enjoy reading about midwives, but the story was much more than that. Grace was a wonderful person and all of the other characters, Clo, Patsy, Pam and so many others just added to the enjoyment.
I loved the book! I picked it because I enjoy reading about midwives, but the story was much more than that. Grace was a wonderful person and all of the other characters, Clo, Patsy, Pam and so many others just added to the enjoyment.
November 9, 2023
Emotional
A beautifully told story of love, loss and having the bravery to face the future . Reconciling past hurt isn't easy . A book which touches all emotions but is overall heartwarming.
A beautifully told story of love, loss and having the bravery to face the future . Reconciling past hurt isn't easy . A book which touches all emotions but is overall heartwarming.
November 10, 2023
Great Read
Courage when life has you at a crossroads, was shown many times here. Sometimes we don’t make the best decisions, but making responsible decisions, based on right living are always steps forward. The people in this book illustrate that.
Courage when life has you at a crossroads, was shown many times here. Sometimes we don’t make the best decisions, but making responsible decisions, based on right living are always steps forward. The people in this book illustrate that.
November 18, 2023
Heart warming
Beautifully written love story. Helpful to remind us of the terrible toll that wars take on people's lives. Could really enter into the feelings Grace was experiencing.
Beautifully written love story. Helpful to remind us of the terrible toll that wars take on people's lives. Could really enter into the feelings Grace was experiencing.
January 1, 2024
Out standing,moving, rivertingand very emotional. It's one of my favourite books. I felt as though I
was actually living the whole story. I loved it from beginning to end. I know the friends of mine who would really enjoy reading this book.
was actually living the whole story. I loved it from beginning to end. I know the friends of mine who would really enjoy reading this book.
January 14, 2024
A wonderfully written historical fiction novel, full of history & emotion. I loved each & every character in this hard to put down novel. I didn’t want the story to end. 5 stars- highly recommend!!
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