What do you think?
Rate this book
The Code Breaker's Secret
Love and duty, codes and spies... Kent, 1939
Soon to marry her childhood sweetheart, Eliza thinks her life is set. But when war breaks out, everything changes and, while helping the soldiers returning from Dunkirk, she bumps into Lewis, an unforgettable stranger from her past.
Eliza’s in-laws’ country home becomes a cell for code breakers receiving messages from the French Resistance, with Eliza as translator. When Lewis is assigned to head up the team, the pair fall dangerously in love. But with the enemy watching across the Channel and rumours of spies in their midst, Eliza is torn between passion and duty.
When Lewis flies across the Channel on a secret mission, Eliza wonders if she'll ever see him again. Can she live with the terrible secret they share?
Previously published as Map of Stars.
Soon to marry her childhood sweetheart, Eliza thinks her life is set. But when war breaks out, everything changes and, while helping the soldiers returning from Dunkirk, she bumps into Lewis, an unforgettable stranger from her past.
Eliza’s in-laws’ country home becomes a cell for code breakers receiving messages from the French Resistance, with Eliza as translator. When Lewis is assigned to head up the team, the pair fall dangerously in love. But with the enemy watching across the Channel and rumours of spies in their midst, Eliza is torn between passion and duty.
When Lewis flies across the Channel on a secret mission, Eliza wonders if she'll ever see him again. Can she live with the terrible secret they share?
Previously published as Map of Stars.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2016
1590 people are currently reading
967 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Law
14 books75 followersCatherine Law is the author of eight historical romantic novels, set during the first half of the 20th century, inspired by the tales our mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers tell us, and the secrets they keep.
Her new novel, The Girl From The War Room is out now.
Catherine lives 10 minutes from the sea in Kent.
Her new novel, The Girl From The War Room is out now.
Catherine lives 10 minutes from the sea in Kent.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
August 27, 2024
I was going to give this two stars until I got towards the end of the story, but then this book and its main character annoyed me so much I could barely finish it.
Eliza starts the book as naive, believing herself to be in love with her childhood friend Nick because he told her he loved her in the snow one day. When she mentions that to him, though, he doesn't remember it. It's blindingly obvious that Nick is gay and in love with Eliza's younger brother, Martyn. I get that might not be obvious to a 19-year-old woman in 1939, but she has misgivings and ploughs on with Nick anyway, even when she's consumed by thoughts of another man. Okay then.
The problem for me with Eliza is that she never learns anything. She creates her own obstacles and stymies herself. That got old fast for me.
Lewis Harper is an interesting character but turns out to be a bit of a doormat when it comes to Eliza. Honestly, I don't know why he puts up with her and her nonsense. Look elsewhere, man, you can do way better than this selfish woman.
There's a whole nonsensical sub-plot about a local girl, Eliza's childhood nemesis, who is a German spy and who, quite unbelievably, Lewis is ordered to marry to keep an eye on her, even though he's always away on missions at this point. I mean... what? She's a spy. The authorities know she's a spy. Arrest her and throw her in jail with all the other spies. Nobody's going to make a Navy commander marry a known spy just because it's a convenient plot point to make his former lover jealous. Ugh. Please.
Then we time jump - which we do a lot in this book, with most of the interesting action happening off-page much to my annoyance - through the childhood of Stella, Eliza and Lewis' daughter. Stella is something of a mystic, with the child version of her late uncle acting as her invisible friend. We know it's Martyn because he says 'mices' instead of 'mice'. Anyway, as bizarre as that all is, the ghost of grown-up Martyn also appears to his sister when she's about to swallow a load of pills and put us all out of our misery. So there's that.
This book is a mess. I'd rather have read the stuff that happens off-page in a lot of cases. It's full of "oh, that would be a cool idea to put in there" plotlines that do nothing to drive the story forward and the main character is remote and unfeeling, with the central love story never taking off because of it. I could not wait to finish this book simply to get it over and done with. I will not be reading this author again.
Eliza starts the book as naive, believing herself to be in love with her childhood friend Nick because he told her he loved her in the snow one day. When she mentions that to him, though, he doesn't remember it. It's blindingly obvious that Nick is gay and in love with Eliza's younger brother, Martyn. I get that might not be obvious to a 19-year-old woman in 1939, but she has misgivings and ploughs on with Nick anyway, even when she's consumed by thoughts of another man. Okay then.
The problem for me with Eliza is that she never learns anything. She creates her own obstacles and stymies herself. That got old fast for me.
Lewis Harper is an interesting character but turns out to be a bit of a doormat when it comes to Eliza. Honestly, I don't know why he puts up with her and her nonsense. Look elsewhere, man, you can do way better than this selfish woman.
There's a whole nonsensical sub-plot about a local girl, Eliza's childhood nemesis, who is a German spy and who, quite unbelievably, Lewis is ordered to marry to keep an eye on her, even though he's always away on missions at this point. I mean... what? She's a spy. The authorities know she's a spy. Arrest her and throw her in jail with all the other spies. Nobody's going to make a Navy commander marry a known spy just because it's a convenient plot point to make his former lover jealous. Ugh. Please.
Then we time jump - which we do a lot in this book, with most of the interesting action happening off-page much to my annoyance - through the childhood of Stella, Eliza and Lewis' daughter. Stella is something of a mystic, with the child version of her late uncle acting as her invisible friend. We know it's Martyn because he says 'mices' instead of 'mice'. Anyway, as bizarre as that all is, the ghost of grown-up Martyn also appears to his sister when she's about to swallow a load of pills and put us all out of our misery. So there's that.
This book is a mess. I'd rather have read the stuff that happens off-page in a lot of cases. It's full of "oh, that would be a cool idea to put in there" plotlines that do nothing to drive the story forward and the main character is remote and unfeeling, with the central love story never taking off because of it. I could not wait to finish this book simply to get it over and done with. I will not be reading this author again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2016
Eliza and Nicholas have been best friends since their childhood. It's a natural step for them to get married, so their families can be joined. When Eliza is about to move in with her in-laws she and Nicholas are involved in a car accident. They're being rescued by Lewis, a charismatic man who greatly impresses Eliza and who will cross her path many more times in the future.
When the Second World War breaks out Eliza and Nicholas are growing apart. Nicholas can't join the army because of their accident and in his family home important war strategies are being planned while he's making beer in his family's brewery. Eliza is part of the intellectual side of the secret missions that are being planned from their home. When Lewis is being stationed there Eliza finds herself in a difficult position. Will she give in to her feelings or will she resist the man of her dreams? When the war takes her brother from her she sets something in motion that will change her life forever.
Map of Stars is a fantastic book about a strong woman who's married to her best friend. He isn't the man of her dreams though, there's no passion between Eliza and Nicholas. During the war things are different, nothing is certain and there's danger everywhere. Eliza manages to stay strong, but inside she's being torn apart. She and Nicholas have so many secrets. When she starts hiding things from her friends and family Eliza can't stop what she started and has to live with the consequences. Catherine Law tells her story in such a beautiful, moving way. I couldn't stop reading. Her vivid descriptions of the main characters, the war, the tension between people and the countryside of Kent make the story come to life incredibly well. Because of the war there's so much going on and each day is different. I loved the unexpected twists and turns and Catherine Law managed to surprise me plenty of times.
Map of Stars is an emotional story about what it feels like to lose, to love and to hold on no matter what happens. Catherine Law's fabulous writing style and choice of words are making this book very special. I absolutely loved this novel and highly recommend it. It's a true gem and it's one of the best books I've read in a long time.
When the Second World War breaks out Eliza and Nicholas are growing apart. Nicholas can't join the army because of their accident and in his family home important war strategies are being planned while he's making beer in his family's brewery. Eliza is part of the intellectual side of the secret missions that are being planned from their home. When Lewis is being stationed there Eliza finds herself in a difficult position. Will she give in to her feelings or will she resist the man of her dreams? When the war takes her brother from her she sets something in motion that will change her life forever.
Map of Stars is a fantastic book about a strong woman who's married to her best friend. He isn't the man of her dreams though, there's no passion between Eliza and Nicholas. During the war things are different, nothing is certain and there's danger everywhere. Eliza manages to stay strong, but inside she's being torn apart. She and Nicholas have so many secrets. When she starts hiding things from her friends and family Eliza can't stop what she started and has to live with the consequences. Catherine Law tells her story in such a beautiful, moving way. I couldn't stop reading. Her vivid descriptions of the main characters, the war, the tension between people and the countryside of Kent make the story come to life incredibly well. Because of the war there's so much going on and each day is different. I loved the unexpected twists and turns and Catherine Law managed to surprise me plenty of times.
Map of Stars is an emotional story about what it feels like to lose, to love and to hold on no matter what happens. Catherine Law's fabulous writing style and choice of words are making this book very special. I absolutely loved this novel and highly recommend it. It's a true gem and it's one of the best books I've read in a long time.
July 28, 2018
I found the story a bit slow at first but once it got going it was quite enjoyable.
January 9, 2025
Short on Historical info, long on fiction. Took me forever to read. I just couldn’t get into the characters. 2*s and don’t think I will refer to friends.
June 13, 2025
Fascinating approach to the everyday heroes of WWII. Engaging plot with plenty of layers, but somehow felt a little thin.
April 29, 2017
received as a good reads first read.
Whenever I really like a book I can never put into words for others why I enjoyed it so much. This is certainly one of those occasions.
The characters were well thought out and unique. I haven't read characters like these before and none of them felt familiar.
The plot was equally unique. it may not have been the thrill ride of thriller but it encaptivated me and I felt absorbed in the era and drama evolving.
Will pass it on for sure.
Whenever I really like a book I can never put into words for others why I enjoyed it so much. This is certainly one of those occasions.
The characters were well thought out and unique. I haven't read characters like these before and none of them felt familiar.
The plot was equally unique. it may not have been the thrill ride of thriller but it encaptivated me and I felt absorbed in the era and drama evolving.
Will pass it on for sure.
July 26, 2024
Hmmmm....
What an interesting story. Definite plot twists, not like any other WWII books I've read...and I've read many. This one will sit with me for a while.
What an interesting story. Definite plot twists, not like any other WWII books I've read...and I've read many. This one will sit with me for a while.
September 4, 2024
"The Code Breaker's Secret" by Catherine Law is a historical romance novel set during World War II, blending themes of love, espionage, and personal courage.
Key aspects of the book include:
Historical Setting: The novel is set against the backdrop of World War II, focusing on the world of code-breaking and espionage. The historical context is richly depicted, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
Romantic Plot: The story revolves around a romance that develops amidst the tension and danger of wartime. The relationship between the protagonists is central to the narrative, marked by emotional intensity and personal stakes.
Character Development: The characters are well-developed, with their individual struggles and growth driving the plot. The protagonists' journey through love and their involvement in espionage are key elements of the story.
Themes: The book explores themes such as love in times of conflict, the impact of war on personal lives, and the courage required to face dangerous situations. The romance is intertwined with these broader themes, adding complexity to the narrative.
Suspense and Drama: The novel includes elements of suspense and drama, with the protagonists facing challenges related to their roles in code-breaking and espionage. This adds excitement and tension to the story.
Overall, "The Code Breaker's Secret" is a captivating historical romance that combines a richly detailed setting with a compelling love story. Catherine Law’s storytelling provides a blend of romance, suspense, and historical authenticity, making it a satisfying read for fans of historical fiction and romance.
Key aspects of the book include:
Historical Setting: The novel is set against the backdrop of World War II, focusing on the world of code-breaking and espionage. The historical context is richly depicted, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
Romantic Plot: The story revolves around a romance that develops amidst the tension and danger of wartime. The relationship between the protagonists is central to the narrative, marked by emotional intensity and personal stakes.
Character Development: The characters are well-developed, with their individual struggles and growth driving the plot. The protagonists' journey through love and their involvement in espionage are key elements of the story.
Themes: The book explores themes such as love in times of conflict, the impact of war on personal lives, and the courage required to face dangerous situations. The romance is intertwined with these broader themes, adding complexity to the narrative.
Suspense and Drama: The novel includes elements of suspense and drama, with the protagonists facing challenges related to their roles in code-breaking and espionage. This adds excitement and tension to the story.
Overall, "The Code Breaker's Secret" is a captivating historical romance that combines a richly detailed setting with a compelling love story. Catherine Law’s storytelling provides a blend of romance, suspense, and historical authenticity, making it a satisfying read for fans of historical fiction and romance.
January 30, 2023
Mitreißend und romantisch
Großbritannien steht kurz vor dem Krieg mit Deutschland. Als der Eintritt in den Krieg verkündet wird, macht Nicholas Eliza einen Heiratsantrag. Sie kennen sich aus Kindertagen. Kurz vor der Hochzeit haben Eliza und Nicholas einen Autounfall und werden von einem Fremden, auf einem Motorrad, gerettet.
Einige Zeit später trifft Eliza wieder auf den geheimnisvollen Fremden. Mittlerweile mit Nicholas verheiratet, wird in ihrem Herrenhaus eine geheime Kriegsdienstzentrale eingerichtet. Eliza fungiert dort als Übersetzerin und zwischen Lewis, denn so heißt der Fremde, und ihr entwickelt sich eine Affäre.
Eine wirklich mitreißende Geschichte, die die Schrecken des 2. Weltkrieges aus der Sicht einer Frau der oberen Gesellschaft beleuchtet und auch die Zeit danach.. Eine Geschichte über Liebe und Verrat und Hingabe. Vor allem dass es Liebe in mehreren Facetten gibt.
Ich bin absolut begeistert über diesen Roman, der keine Sekunde langweilig wurde und habe dem Ende entgegen gefiebert.
Großbritannien steht kurz vor dem Krieg mit Deutschland. Als der Eintritt in den Krieg verkündet wird, macht Nicholas Eliza einen Heiratsantrag. Sie kennen sich aus Kindertagen. Kurz vor der Hochzeit haben Eliza und Nicholas einen Autounfall und werden von einem Fremden, auf einem Motorrad, gerettet.
Einige Zeit später trifft Eliza wieder auf den geheimnisvollen Fremden. Mittlerweile mit Nicholas verheiratet, wird in ihrem Herrenhaus eine geheime Kriegsdienstzentrale eingerichtet. Eliza fungiert dort als Übersetzerin und zwischen Lewis, denn so heißt der Fremde, und ihr entwickelt sich eine Affäre.
Eine wirklich mitreißende Geschichte, die die Schrecken des 2. Weltkrieges aus der Sicht einer Frau der oberen Gesellschaft beleuchtet und auch die Zeit danach.. Eine Geschichte über Liebe und Verrat und Hingabe. Vor allem dass es Liebe in mehreren Facetten gibt.
Ich bin absolut begeistert über diesen Roman, der keine Sekunde langweilig wurde und habe dem Ende entgegen gefiebert.
February 25, 2025
Evocative and poignant, The Code Breaker's Secret is a glimpse into the lives and work of the men and women who find their work could change the course of the war.
I particularly like how Catherine Law explores the depth and complexity of the relationships between her ensemble cast, and the atmospheric world of Forstall manor, In turns comforting and claustrophobic, thoer home is haunted by memories of the past.
Living so close to the Kentish coast means the war is never far away, and throws them all into disarray. At one point the protagonist, Eliza, observes that, ‘The war had blighted them all, turned everything upside down.’
The heroic Lewis is an unforgettable and well-drawn character, with enough mystery to keep readers guessing. I honestly didn’t see the plot twist coming, but it lifts the narrative to an unexpected level.
A masterclass in how to add a new dimension to wartime romance, I am happy to recommend The Code Breaker's Secret and will look out ofr more books by Catherine Law.
I particularly like how Catherine Law explores the depth and complexity of the relationships between her ensemble cast, and the atmospheric world of Forstall manor, In turns comforting and claustrophobic, thoer home is haunted by memories of the past.
Living so close to the Kentish coast means the war is never far away, and throws them all into disarray. At one point the protagonist, Eliza, observes that, ‘The war had blighted them all, turned everything upside down.’
The heroic Lewis is an unforgettable and well-drawn character, with enough mystery to keep readers guessing. I honestly didn’t see the plot twist coming, but it lifts the narrative to an unexpected level.
A masterclass in how to add a new dimension to wartime romance, I am happy to recommend The Code Breaker's Secret and will look out ofr more books by Catherine Law.
November 9, 2019
It’s 1939 and the setting is Kent. The main character Eliza and her fiancé Nicolas are driving to their new home when their car skids on some ice and from the wreckage Eliza is rescued by a passing stranger. As war starts and Eliza and Nicolas’s lives go in different directions choices made have consequences no one could foresee. I liked the way the characters felt real and the setting really carried the story along. It highlighted what went on in the English countryside when invasion was possibly imminent and this was interesting but for me I wish I was explored more as at times I felt the tension between the main characters was a bit drawn our. That being said it was an easy read and beautifully written
January 18, 2025
I finished this out of spite, more than anything, to see if it could possibly get worse. I'd finished The Rose Code (excellent) and The Code Breaker's Secret was a free Kindle read with similar keywords: WWII, codebreaking, female main, secrets and betrayal, etc. It wasn't terrible, but... It was bad, more a soppy tortured romance (with zero spice and pages of adjectives describing the family house) than anything to do with mystery or code breaking. The dead brother appearing at the end as a ghost and guiding everyone to their happy destinies was an incredibly awkward way to finish, given there wasn't the slightest hint of the supernatural in the novel until the last five percent. AI can write less stilted dialogue. Don't bother.
April 14, 2025
Captivating read
This is an extremely well written historical fiction novel using dual storylines. History is woven into the story & the characters are well developed & believable. I found it fascinating to learn about code deciphering & how that led to victory in WWII. The manner in which the author paints pictures with her words is both beautiful and haunting. I found myself confronted with the reality of life, loss & sacrifice the soldiers & civilians made during WWII. This was told from the British point of view, the setting being in England. As an American I only know what my father in law had told me about his time in the Navy & my grandfather who was in the Army during WWII. I knew of my grandmother missing him & of how my father had to quit school in 7th grade to go to work to earn money for his family. To learn how our ally, England, suffered & sacrificed so tremendously shed new light on how I perceive WWII & those who served.
Excellent storyline, many twists, turns & intriguing plot!
I will definitely be reading more from Catherine Law.
This is an extremely well written historical fiction novel using dual storylines. History is woven into the story & the characters are well developed & believable. I found it fascinating to learn about code deciphering & how that led to victory in WWII. The manner in which the author paints pictures with her words is both beautiful and haunting. I found myself confronted with the reality of life, loss & sacrifice the soldiers & civilians made during WWII. This was told from the British point of view, the setting being in England. As an American I only know what my father in law had told me about his time in the Navy & my grandfather who was in the Army during WWII. I knew of my grandmother missing him & of how my father had to quit school in 7th grade to go to work to earn money for his family. To learn how our ally, England, suffered & sacrificed so tremendously shed new light on how I perceive WWII & those who served.
Excellent storyline, many twists, turns & intriguing plot!
I will definitely be reading more from Catherine Law.
November 10, 2024
Set in 1939 Kent, Eliza Elkington is set to marry her childhood sweetheart Nicholas Hendry. Everything changes when WWII breaks out. Eliza meets Lewis Harper while helping returning soldiers from Dunkirk. The Hendry's home becomes a hub for code breaker's receiving messages from the French resistance with Eliza is serving as a translator. As Lewis heads up the team, Eliza and Lewis fall in love. Lewis travels on a secret mission across the channel, Eliza hopes he will return safely. Eliza must choose between love and her duty. I really enjoyed this captivating historical fiction romance novel.
April 12, 2025
2.5⭐
I listened to the audiobook version and it took me a while to get into it. It was a little slow at the beginning and a little hard to get to know who was who, I had to listen to the introduction a couple of times.
Once I got into the story, it was ok although I didn't really warm up to Eliza.
The story is more of a love story than code breaking or spies. Having read The Rose Code, I expected more based on the blurb.
Near the end there's a supernatural element that hadn't been mentioned before and felt a little odd and the ending was rather abrupt. I would have liked a little more development.
I listened to the audiobook version and it took me a while to get into it. It was a little slow at the beginning and a little hard to get to know who was who, I had to listen to the introduction a couple of times.
Once I got into the story, it was ok although I didn't really warm up to Eliza.
The story is more of a love story than code breaking or spies. Having read The Rose Code, I expected more based on the blurb.
Near the end there's a supernatural element that hadn't been mentioned before and felt a little odd and the ending was rather abrupt. I would have liked a little more development.
August 23, 2020
Purchase Map of Stars here for just $10!
It's 1939, and Elizabeth is to be married to Nicholas whom she's known since she was a child. But when the pair are involved in a car crash, Eliza is rescued by a stranger, Lewis Harper, whose undeniable charm marks her question everything she thought she knew. Filled with love and duty, codes and spies, Map of Stars is a tear-jerking wartime romance.
Olly - The Book Grocer
It's 1939, and Elizabeth is to be married to Nicholas whom she's known since she was a child. But when the pair are involved in a car crash, Eliza is rescued by a stranger, Lewis Harper, whose undeniable charm marks her question everything she thought she knew. Filled with love and duty, codes and spies, Map of Stars is a tear-jerking wartime romance.
Olly - The Book Grocer
July 15, 2024
A bittersweet romantic read
The story was told in dual timelines. Sometimes I enjoy that but this was not one of them. I really wished that the “present day” part would not have been at the beginning as it rather spoiled the romantic part of the story for me. This book seemed to have bits and pieces of what seems to be the popular narrative right now. Marriages to hide real loves, dual timelines, spies and secret identities, spirits of deceased people, etc. It was just too much thrown together in a way that made it totally unbelievable.
The story was told in dual timelines. Sometimes I enjoy that but this was not one of them. I really wished that the “present day” part would not have been at the beginning as it rather spoiled the romantic part of the story for me. This book seemed to have bits and pieces of what seems to be the popular narrative right now. Marriages to hide real loves, dual timelines, spies and secret identities, spirits of deceased people, etc. It was just too much thrown together in a way that made it totally unbelievable.
August 31, 2024
The code Breaker’s Secret by Catherine Law
This was a beautifully written book and especially meaningful to me as my parents were English, and most of their families went through the horrific bombing of England by the Nazis. It is a complicated love story and tells of the courage and solidarity of those who had to survive the brutality of war.
There are many twists and turns, as the story unfolds and a lot of unexpected surprises. I couldn’t put it down and highly recommend it.
This was a beautifully written book and especially meaningful to me as my parents were English, and most of their families went through the horrific bombing of England by the Nazis. It is a complicated love story and tells of the courage and solidarity of those who had to survive the brutality of war.
There are many twists and turns, as the story unfolds and a lot of unexpected surprises. I couldn’t put it down and highly recommend it.
July 12, 2025
Fabulous love story and history!
Heartbreaking story of two people in love but could not be together. Eliza was a Code Breaker in World War II translating the French notes delivered by courier pigeons. Eliza married her childhood friend at the start of World War II. I absolutely recommend this book. It brought me to tears a few times. Catherine Law writes this marvelous story keeping your attention to see what will happen next. The story has some twists and turns along with surprises. Happy reading! 😊
Heartbreaking story of two people in love but could not be together. Eliza was a Code Breaker in World War II translating the French notes delivered by courier pigeons. Eliza married her childhood friend at the start of World War II. I absolutely recommend this book. It brought me to tears a few times. Catherine Law writes this marvelous story keeping your attention to see what will happen next. The story has some twists and turns along with surprises. Happy reading! 😊
September 4, 2024
Jeg blev lidt skuffet i starten af denne roman. Jeg syntes den var lidt små kedelig og jeg havde svært ved at blive fanget af historien. Men cirka halvvejs, begyndte tingene at tage form, og jeg blev grebet af historien.
Syntes jeg at grundhistorien er realistisk? Nej, vel egentlig ikke. Den virker lidt søgt i min optik, men skidt pyt - når enden er god, er alting godt.
4 stjerner fordi den alligevel blev spændende til sidst.
Syntes jeg at grundhistorien er realistisk? Nej, vel egentlig ikke. Den virker lidt søgt i min optik, men skidt pyt - når enden er god, er alting godt.
4 stjerner fordi den alligevel blev spændende til sidst.
October 4, 2024
Interesting war story
When war becomes personal all kinds of secrets are bound to crop up. Here childhood friends grow up...love becomes consuming and leads to marriage. Homosexuality kept secret for long time. One becomes a spy for the enemy and is a traitor. An extramarital affair which brings a child into play. Families combine living arrangements. Deaths are family trauma to bear. This is a page turner with a few surprises.
When war becomes personal all kinds of secrets are bound to crop up. Here childhood friends grow up...love becomes consuming and leads to marriage. Homosexuality kept secret for long time. One becomes a spy for the enemy and is a traitor. An extramarital affair which brings a child into play. Families combine living arrangements. Deaths are family trauma to bear. This is a page turner with a few surprises.
March 24, 2025
3 1/2 Stars
Eliza is about to be married to her childhood sweetheart when WWII breaks out. She and her finance' are in a terrible accident. He cannot serve in the military as a result. Because she speaks French, she works to translate information coming into England. She meets the man who saved them from the accident, they have a very strong attachment.
The book is a romance, but there are very interesting details about the English resistance during the war.
Eliza is about to be married to her childhood sweetheart when WWII breaks out. She and her finance' are in a terrible accident. He cannot serve in the military as a result. Because she speaks French, she works to translate information coming into England. She meets the man who saved them from the accident, they have a very strong attachment.
The book is a romance, but there are very interesting details about the English resistance during the war.
December 8, 2024
I wanted to love it
I found this so scattered that I put it down.
From the first page I was confused by too many names of characters with too little context. It felt like a waterfall of names and I was left in a muddle of who was who.
I do appreciate the courage and the steadfastness it takes to write a book, but I just couldn't go the course.
I found this so scattered that I put it down.
From the first page I was confused by too many names of characters with too little context. It felt like a waterfall of names and I was left in a muddle of who was who.
I do appreciate the courage and the steadfastness it takes to write a book, but I just couldn't go the course.
January 9, 2025
Great historic novel
If you are interested in life during WW2 in Britain and a love story, this should be on your reading list. Following a family from childhood through the war and after, many twists and turns as I can quess happened a lot. Great descriptions of an area of England that still had castles that are lived in by everyday people.
If you are interested in life during WW2 in Britain and a love story, this should be on your reading list. Following a family from childhood through the war and after, many twists and turns as I can quess happened a lot. Great descriptions of an area of England that still had castles that are lived in by everyday people.
March 15, 2025
Good Read
This was as stated above a good read. The characters at the beginning I thought would be hard to follow but they were not. The combined families were a delight. I enjoy these stories about the home front during WW11. It’s a reflection of an earlier time less complication and more confrontation.
Enjoyable read in one sitting.
This was as stated above a good read. The characters at the beginning I thought would be hard to follow but they were not. The combined families were a delight. I enjoy these stories about the home front during WW11. It’s a reflection of an earlier time less complication and more confrontation.
Enjoyable read in one sitting.
March 25, 2025
Only so-so read
The plot was sound and had promise. However, I disliked the not-too-likable main character, Eliza. She seemed obsessed with her own guilt throughout the story and I lost sympathy for her. "Enough already!" Plus, the conclusion was odd and not very emotionally satisfying.
The plot was sound and had promise. However, I disliked the not-too-likable main character, Eliza. She seemed obsessed with her own guilt throughout the story and I lost sympathy for her. "Enough already!" Plus, the conclusion was odd and not very emotionally satisfying.
March 31, 2025
War within and war all around
Very enjoyable read; the romance was just as heart wrenching as the war. Clever how Eliza was relieved of her family to attend to her desires. Shocked really to learn people with different sexual tendencies back then were imprisoned at one time.
Very enjoyable read; the romance was just as heart wrenching as the war. Clever how Eliza was relieved of her family to attend to her desires. Shocked really to learn people with different sexual tendencies back then were imprisoned at one time.
June 5, 2025
A remarkable, believable wartime story of romance, conviction, and tenacity!
Set during WW2 an odd romance happens between Nick and Eliza. War does odd things to people and this story has it all. A sailor, Lewis Harper enters their lives. Some surprising events happen. A most enjoyable read of yet another side of how WW2 impacts this British family.
Set during WW2 an odd romance happens between Nick and Eliza. War does odd things to people and this story has it all. A sailor, Lewis Harper enters their lives. Some surprising events happen. A most enjoyable read of yet another side of how WW2 impacts this British family.
September 9, 2024
Not only does the protagonist, Eliza, cheat on her husband, she rationalizes her decision repeated throughout the novel. She maintains her extramarital affair for years. There are no redeeming features in the book. While I did read the entire book, I would not suggest anyone else waste their time.
September 11, 2024
Oh, No! It can't be over!
This story is stupendous! I had to stop reading it often, because I didn't want it to end! A wonderful, wonderful book! I have found a terrific author. Thank you, Catherine Law! Tauby Steinberg
This story is stupendous! I had to stop reading it often, because I didn't want it to end! A wonderful, wonderful book! I have found a terrific author. Thank you, Catherine Law! Tauby Steinberg
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews