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The Lost Memories
: The most heartwarming and gripping wartime historical fiction romance novel of 2024, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Lucinda Riley as well as Masters of the Air
“The Lost Memories gathered me up and swept me away. A beautiful, uplifting tale of life’s many types of love, and how the truest are never forgotten.” -Amanda Geard
Suffolk, 1944. American pilot Charlie’s second tour is about to draw to a close, but his heart is forever changed when he meets Kitty, a local land girl with dreams of joining the Women’s Land Army. As love blooms, the pair are all too aware that every perilous mission Charlie flies may well be his last… Suffolk, 2023. When Kitty’s granddaughter and ambitious tearoom owner Amy meets American tourist and photographer Jack, she agrees to show him around in exchange for his photographic talents. The deal quickly grows into an unexpected bond – but when long-buried secrets emerge, neither of their worlds will ever be the same again… The Lost Memories is a heartwarming, multi-generational love story, perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley and Kate Morton.
“The Lost Memories gathered me up and swept me away. A beautiful, uplifting tale of life’s many types of love, and how the truest are never forgotten.” -Amanda Geard
Suffolk, 1944. American pilot Charlie’s second tour is about to draw to a close, but his heart is forever changed when he meets Kitty, a local land girl with dreams of joining the Women’s Land Army. As love blooms, the pair are all too aware that every perilous mission Charlie flies may well be his last… Suffolk, 2023. When Kitty’s granddaughter and ambitious tearoom owner Amy meets American tourist and photographer Jack, she agrees to show him around in exchange for his photographic talents. The deal quickly grows into an unexpected bond – but when long-buried secrets emerge, neither of their worlds will ever be the same again… The Lost Memories is a heartwarming, multi-generational love story, perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley and Kate Morton.
336 pages, Paperback
First published March 28, 2024
167 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
About the author
Lorna Cook
11 books411 followersLorna Cook writes historical fiction, weaving secrets and forgotten history with mystery and romance.
She also writes contemporary fiction under the name Elle Cook.
She also writes contemporary fiction under the name Elle Cook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 19, 2024
Suffolk, 1944. The Second World War is almost over, the allies have invaded Normandy and American pilot Charlie signed up for his second tour of duty and this doesn’t happen very often. Kitty works in her father’s pub, The Duck, filling glasses and cleaning up and she wants to join the Women’s Land Army. Kitty and Charlie meet, love blossoms between them, he promises Kitty he won’t take any risks and she counts the planes when they return to the airfield from bombing Europe.
The story has a dual timeline, its set in Suffolk, England and is told from the points of view of Kitty and her granddaughter Amy.
Suffolk, 2011. Amy runs a busy tearooms in Lavenham and her sister Caroline helps her. The town is full of American tourist and veterans for the 70th anniversary of the 487th Bomb Group who were stationed here during World War Two, they plan on holding a Heritage Day and unveil a plaque. Jack’s a photographer from New York he's travelled to Suffolk with his father and grandfather. Amy agrees to show him around in exchange for his taking shots of the local landmarks and she wants to sell them in her tearooms and of course pay Jack a percentage of profits. All that’s left of the old airfield is the watch tower, the landing strip and it once was farm land.
I received a copy of The Lost Memories by Lorna Cook from Avon Publishing UK and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I have read many stories set in England during the Second World War, this one is very different as it's after the D-Day landings and the war is almost over and yet no one knows when it will end. The fictional narrative is based on a real village in Suffolk and the pub where the servicemen signed the walls all those years ago and sadly only a small number made it home.
Be prepared to go on an emotional roller coaster while reading Ms. Cook’s latest novel, it's set in a beautiful and quaint location, a story about young love, not knowing what the future holds, looking back at the past and big secrets are revealed. An amazing multi-generational romance, I haven’t cried so much since I read the Notebook by Nicholas Sparks and five stars from me. I highly recommend The Lost Memories and Lorna Cook’s previous book The Hidden Letters.
The story has a dual timeline, its set in Suffolk, England and is told from the points of view of Kitty and her granddaughter Amy.
Suffolk, 2011. Amy runs a busy tearooms in Lavenham and her sister Caroline helps her. The town is full of American tourist and veterans for the 70th anniversary of the 487th Bomb Group who were stationed here during World War Two, they plan on holding a Heritage Day and unveil a plaque. Jack’s a photographer from New York he's travelled to Suffolk with his father and grandfather. Amy agrees to show him around in exchange for his taking shots of the local landmarks and she wants to sell them in her tearooms and of course pay Jack a percentage of profits. All that’s left of the old airfield is the watch tower, the landing strip and it once was farm land.
I received a copy of The Lost Memories by Lorna Cook from Avon Publishing UK and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I have read many stories set in England during the Second World War, this one is very different as it's after the D-Day landings and the war is almost over and yet no one knows when it will end. The fictional narrative is based on a real village in Suffolk and the pub where the servicemen signed the walls all those years ago and sadly only a small number made it home.
Be prepared to go on an emotional roller coaster while reading Ms. Cook’s latest novel, it's set in a beautiful and quaint location, a story about young love, not knowing what the future holds, looking back at the past and big secrets are revealed. An amazing multi-generational romance, I haven’t cried so much since I read the Notebook by Nicholas Sparks and five stars from me. I highly recommend The Lost Memories and Lorna Cook’s previous book The Hidden Letters.
March 27, 2024
A dual timeline, we have Amy in Summer 2011 and Kitty in 1944. Kitty is Amy's grandmother. She fell in love with an American airman who was stationed in the village during the war. The book alternates between both women's lives.
I loved this author's book The Hidden Letters, so was excited to read this one. However, the story fell short for me. I didn't feel like the characters were fully fleshed out and we didn't really get to know some of them in dept at all. It also took time to get going. The early chapters were slow and not a lot happened in them. There was secret upon secret but it took forever for it to all to come to light. It did pick up towards the end though.
I would recommend it to readers of dual timelines and war years stories but for anyone interested in this author, read The Hidden Letters!
Thank you to Avon Books Uk and NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
I loved this author's book The Hidden Letters, so was excited to read this one. However, the story fell short for me. I didn't feel like the characters were fully fleshed out and we didn't really get to know some of them in dept at all. It also took time to get going. The early chapters were slow and not a lot happened in them. There was secret upon secret but it took forever for it to all to come to light. It did pick up towards the end though.
I would recommend it to readers of dual timelines and war years stories but for anyone interested in this author, read The Hidden Letters!
Thank you to Avon Books Uk and NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
March 23, 2024
I’ve enjoyed all of Lorna Cook’s historical fiction books so far and was very excited to receive a copy of this, her latest, from Net Galley (free in return for a full and honest review).
It totally lived up to expectations, a lovely light and enjoyable read which ticked all the boxes; WW2/present day (ish) dual-timeline, beautiful setting (Suffolk) and likeable, believable characters.
Some of the ‘twists’ were quite well signposted - others were a complete surprise- and the story and writing style, really engaging. I always find I learn some historical facts from this author’s books too.
The reading experience was very slightly marred by typo’s & but this was an arc copy & presumably these will be picked up before it goes to print.
It totally lived up to expectations, a lovely light and enjoyable read which ticked all the boxes; WW2/present day (ish) dual-timeline, beautiful setting (Suffolk) and likeable, believable characters.
Some of the ‘twists’ were quite well signposted - others were a complete surprise- and the story and writing style, really engaging. I always find I learn some historical facts from this author’s books too.
The reading experience was very slightly marred by typo’s & but this was an arc copy & presumably these will be picked up before it goes to print.
March 17, 2024
I was delighted to be chosen by NetGalley to read this book before publication as I’ve never read a Lorna cook book. I’ve just become a fan!
Absolutely loved the dual story and timeline.
Parts did feel predictable, however, that didn’t matter as the story was beautifully thought out and it felt fresh, even though WW2 and fictional stories have been written by many authors, there was something captivating about the story and the love story between Kitty and Charlie. The characters came to life in every page, absolutely loved this book.
Absolutely loved the dual story and timeline.
Parts did feel predictable, however, that didn’t matter as the story was beautifully thought out and it felt fresh, even though WW2 and fictional stories have been written by many authors, there was something captivating about the story and the love story between Kitty and Charlie. The characters came to life in every page, absolutely loved this book.
March 19, 2024
If you’re looking for a beautifully poignant dual timeline romance look no further. The story is shared between Kitty in the 1940s and her grand-daughter Amy in the 2010s.
I always find ww1/ww2 based books really interesting and I love a Lorna Cook novel so this was always going to be a winner for me.
I loved the characters of Kitty, Amy, Jack and Charlie. I thought the story was going to be fairly predictable and to an extent it was, although there were a couple of twists I didn’t see coming. The Suffolk setting was well described and easy to imagine; fascinating to learn it was based on a real world place.
So pleased to have read this. Thank you to netgalley and Avon for my review copy.
Note to publisher - there were quite a few spelling mistakes/typos which hopefully have been picked up before print.
I always find ww1/ww2 based books really interesting and I love a Lorna Cook novel so this was always going to be a winner for me.
I loved the characters of Kitty, Amy, Jack and Charlie. I thought the story was going to be fairly predictable and to an extent it was, although there were a couple of twists I didn’t see coming. The Suffolk setting was well described and easy to imagine; fascinating to learn it was based on a real world place.
So pleased to have read this. Thank you to netgalley and Avon for my review copy.
Note to publisher - there were quite a few spelling mistakes/typos which hopefully have been picked up before print.
April 9, 2024
The Lost Memories is a riveting, emotional historical fiction book primarily set in England in 1944. This is a dual timeline novel and tells the story of young love, heartache, and resilience during wartime. The characters in both timelines swept me into their stories. This book made me a bit nostalgic, since my husband was in the USAF and we lived in that same area for a while, giving this book a personal touch for me. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
March 17, 2024
First of all . Dual timelines. It was a sweet story with a marvellous setting. I just did not get wowed by it. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
June 3, 2024
3.5 stars. Another really lovely story from this author but I did guess all the twists, which is ok, but I do like an element of surprise! I’ve recently read a book with a similar ending, so it’s not a unique plot but lovely characters and setting all in my favourite genre.
January 11, 2026
A heart-warming tale of young love during WWII in Suffolk, England. A young girl who works in her fathers pub falls in love with an American pilot. This story is told in a dual timeline. It alternates between 1944 and 2011. Kitty’s granddaughter Amy learns about her grandmothers wartime romance. Interesting twist at the end.
March 28, 2024
Amy is busy with her new tearoom and catering business and has no time for her love life. However, one day, she meets a guy, an American photographer, who came to Suffolk with his father and grandfather for a ceremony commemorating American soldiers fighting in the war.
Amy enjoys spending time with grandma, Kitty, whose story takes place during World War II. Kitty was a lovely young lady when she fell in love with an American airman stationed in Suffolk. Her story from almost seventy years ago, was still hidden in a dusty diary in the attic, which was finally brought to light thanks to her granddaughter. You need to read this book to experience the love journey of both Kitty and Amy.
It is a story about the lives of two girls in very different worlds. I liked the dual timeline and POV format and was drawn to both Kelly and Amy.
Kitty was an amazing person full of energy, love and dreams that didn't last long. Her granddaughter, Amy, was strong and hard-working person who cared for her family and took further steps towards her grandmother's happiness.
This was a gripping story of love and war.
The ending was tense but very beautiful at the same time.
Amy enjoys spending time with grandma, Kitty, whose story takes place during World War II. Kitty was a lovely young lady when she fell in love with an American airman stationed in Suffolk. Her story from almost seventy years ago, was still hidden in a dusty diary in the attic, which was finally brought to light thanks to her granddaughter. You need to read this book to experience the love journey of both Kitty and Amy.
It is a story about the lives of two girls in very different worlds. I liked the dual timeline and POV format and was drawn to both Kelly and Amy.
Kitty was an amazing person full of energy, love and dreams that didn't last long. Her granddaughter, Amy, was strong and hard-working person who cared for her family and took further steps towards her grandmother's happiness.
This was a gripping story of love and war.
The ending was tense but very beautiful at the same time.
March 9, 2024
I was so pleased to get approved for this latest Lorna Cook book as I always enjoy her books. This was a dual time-line set in 1944 and present day. It was a lovely story together with lots of historical information which I found fascinating. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 11, 2024
The Lost Memories by Lorna Cook is a very special novel. It is delivered with a warm and loving hand. This dual timeline (set in Suffolk 1944 and 2011) truly swept me away and pulled my heart in so many directions while invoking tears, sighs, smiles and laughter. For though this story has many sad moments that are quite shattering, caused mostly by the horrors of war and the oceans and landscapes that separated these lovers, it still delivers a positive and clear message that dreams can come true and miracles can happen—even after a lengthy passage of time.
I adore dual timelines and this one works extremely well. It is not the unusual back and forth from chapter to chapter but rather the author lets us settle in to each era and spend a while getting to know the characters and their circumstances. It was very appropriate for the story and it kept me in the zone. I never once felt ripped out of a timeline and pushed into another. Rather, there is a gentle ebb and flow that carefully plays out the plot and allows us to stop for a breath before moving into the past or present. This kept me immersed in the threads at equal measure and I became emotionally invested in each of the leading women and their loves. I must say I really enjoyed both Kitty’s and Amy’s story, a grandmother and granddaughter—something I can relate to. And it is beautiful how their lives intersect, converge and mold together to provide a fascinating ending.
There are many memorable moments in this novel— including the scenes of the carvings being made and discovered later on the old oak tree ‘where young lovers of years gone by had etched their initials.’ This spot has special meaning for Kitty and granddaughter Amy found ‘comfort under its boughs.’ But she has not visited it in a long while, until Jack, a young American photographer shows up with his father to do some sightseeing of areas used during the war.
Amy is a very likeable lady who appreciates her mom and is close to her sister. She is hardworking and has a teashop business that she wants to expand. When asked to cater the Heritage Day event, she is delighted but knows it is a task that could use an extra set of hands. So, Jack steps in and offers to help in the kitchen. They hit it off and she offers to show him around her family’s property where he is able to take some stunning photos—including one of her. She comes up with the idea to sell his artistic work in her shop and he is pleased. They feel a strong connection to each other and later we learn there is good reason for this. But it is lovely to watch their affection blossom—even though we know Jack must return home to the US shortly.
Kitty’s life is gracefully told through her journal and her own conversations with her granddaughter. The past begins to surface and the threads of this woman’s life are carefully unveiled for us to get a clear picture of where she came from and where she ended up. The heartache she endured left me in tears and Charlie—well he is adorable and who could not love him? He was a devoted man, faithful in service and in his relationship with Kitty. Then something terrible happens that tears these two apart and you can just fill the grief dripping from the pages.
There are wonderful things about this novel that readers will learn and love about it, as I have. Including lines that many of us can relate to— such as: ‘When you are young you don’t pay attention to what your elders tell you,’ and ‘wish later you had’. Somehow we don’t realise the importance of family history when we are young. It is not until much later in life. Then we have new obstacles. Family members are gone, so it is a lot harder or impossible to get the information we so desperately crave. If we are lucky, though, there may be old letters and other memorabilia remaining to help us put the pieces together. So we grasp with both hands those precious memories. And then weave them into the tapestry of our lives. Blending the threads together in one luminescent whole. To lose them would be a tragedy. Which is why preserving our stories is so important— to keep passing them down from generation to generation.
The Lost Memories provides this more positive scenario and gives us the happy ending we long to experience. Kitty is able to pass on to her granddaughter her story so that she can learn from it—and she does. This novel has a very uplifting ending that ties all the threads together in a joyous weave. I adored it immensely and highly recommend this dual timeline gem that celebrates timeless love. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Avon Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
I adore dual timelines and this one works extremely well. It is not the unusual back and forth from chapter to chapter but rather the author lets us settle in to each era and spend a while getting to know the characters and their circumstances. It was very appropriate for the story and it kept me in the zone. I never once felt ripped out of a timeline and pushed into another. Rather, there is a gentle ebb and flow that carefully plays out the plot and allows us to stop for a breath before moving into the past or present. This kept me immersed in the threads at equal measure and I became emotionally invested in each of the leading women and their loves. I must say I really enjoyed both Kitty’s and Amy’s story, a grandmother and granddaughter—something I can relate to. And it is beautiful how their lives intersect, converge and mold together to provide a fascinating ending.
There are many memorable moments in this novel— including the scenes of the carvings being made and discovered later on the old oak tree ‘where young lovers of years gone by had etched their initials.’ This spot has special meaning for Kitty and granddaughter Amy found ‘comfort under its boughs.’ But she has not visited it in a long while, until Jack, a young American photographer shows up with his father to do some sightseeing of areas used during the war.
Amy is a very likeable lady who appreciates her mom and is close to her sister. She is hardworking and has a teashop business that she wants to expand. When asked to cater the Heritage Day event, she is delighted but knows it is a task that could use an extra set of hands. So, Jack steps in and offers to help in the kitchen. They hit it off and she offers to show him around her family’s property where he is able to take some stunning photos—including one of her. She comes up with the idea to sell his artistic work in her shop and he is pleased. They feel a strong connection to each other and later we learn there is good reason for this. But it is lovely to watch their affection blossom—even though we know Jack must return home to the US shortly.
Kitty’s life is gracefully told through her journal and her own conversations with her granddaughter. The past begins to surface and the threads of this woman’s life are carefully unveiled for us to get a clear picture of where she came from and where she ended up. The heartache she endured left me in tears and Charlie—well he is adorable and who could not love him? He was a devoted man, faithful in service and in his relationship with Kitty. Then something terrible happens that tears these two apart and you can just fill the grief dripping from the pages.
There are wonderful things about this novel that readers will learn and love about it, as I have. Including lines that many of us can relate to— such as: ‘When you are young you don’t pay attention to what your elders tell you,’ and ‘wish later you had’. Somehow we don’t realise the importance of family history when we are young. It is not until much later in life. Then we have new obstacles. Family members are gone, so it is a lot harder or impossible to get the information we so desperately crave. If we are lucky, though, there may be old letters and other memorabilia remaining to help us put the pieces together. So we grasp with both hands those precious memories. And then weave them into the tapestry of our lives. Blending the threads together in one luminescent whole. To lose them would be a tragedy. Which is why preserving our stories is so important— to keep passing them down from generation to generation.
The Lost Memories provides this more positive scenario and gives us the happy ending we long to experience. Kitty is able to pass on to her granddaughter her story so that she can learn from it—and she does. This novel has a very uplifting ending that ties all the threads together in a joyous weave. I adored it immensely and highly recommend this dual timeline gem that celebrates timeless love. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Avon Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
April 26, 2025
What a tugger at the heartstrings!!! In 1944, Kitty and her sister are working in her father's pub located in a small town in England, serving the countless number of American aviators who have volunteered to fight the war. It's not long before Kitty meets Charlie. Their connection is real and they plan to marry. Fast forward to 2011, Amy and her sister own a tearoom, in the same small town in England. It's the year to celebrate Heritage Day and a countless number of Americans descend on the small town. Through a happy accident, Amy meets Jack and their connection is electric. Follow these two young couples, as the author tells their story with mesmerizing ability. There are some surprises along the way - some expected, some not so much, but all-in-all this was a very satisfying read. Thank you, Ms. Cook, my Kindle library is now full of your titles.
March 1, 2024
I love Lorna Cook novels. Just the right amount of history, heartache and love. Highly recommend
March 8, 2024
This was a slow burn for me which took a while to get going, and the twists didn’t surprise me. Still, I’m glad I stayed with it. The ending was satisfying and if you’re a die-hard romantic you’’re sure to enjoy this dual timeline with linked love stories from WWII and the present day.
My favourite aspect of the book was the interaction between the two couples. Memorable meet-cutes and lovable heroes made it easy to see why our heroines fell for them hard. The dialogue sparkled. There were also some interesting side characters, notably Kitty’s dad and sister.
The historical aspects seemed well researched, and had an added poignancy as I read this book while the series Masters of the Air brought to life the exploits and traumas of the American bomber crews stationed in the U.K. during WWII.
3.5 stars for me.
My favourite aspect of the book was the interaction between the two couples. Memorable meet-cutes and lovable heroes made it easy to see why our heroines fell for them hard. The dialogue sparkled. There were also some interesting side characters, notably Kitty’s dad and sister.
The historical aspects seemed well researched, and had an added poignancy as I read this book while the series Masters of the Air brought to life the exploits and traumas of the American bomber crews stationed in the U.K. during WWII.
3.5 stars for me.
March 3, 2024
Brief synopsis from the book cover:
Suffolk, 1944. American pilot Charlie’s second tour is about to draw to a close, but his heart is forever changed when he meets Kitty, a local girl with dreams of joining the Women’s Land Army. As love blooms, the pair are all too aware that every perilous mission Charlie flies may well be his last…
Suffolk, 2011. When Kitty’s granddaughter and ambitious tearoom owner Amy meets American tourist and photographer Jack, she agrees to show him around in exchange for his photographic talents. The deal quickly grows into an unexpected bond – but when long-buried secrets emerge, neither of their worlds will ever be the same again…
My rating:
Plot: 5 out of 5 stars
Writing: 5 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Historical Fiction
Review:
Review:
This is a beautifully written story about the impact of first love. Written over a dual time line it tells the story of Kitty which starts in 1944 The second time line starts in 2011 this timeline centers around Amy Kitty’s granddaughter a strong ambitious woman who runs her own tea room. Slowly the two time lines are interwoven and nicely concluded at the end.
The plot is well developed with a few twists and turns which keeps it interesting till the end.. The writing is very captivating and full of warmth. The characters are well developed, their actions are well explained this made them likeable and realistic.
Overall:
This is a well written book with a plot that flows well and captures you from the start. The story has nice realistic characters. It is a nice story without being too sweet so it felt realistic, the few twists and turns kept it interesting till the end without being too predictable. . I highly recommend reading it.
Review copy provided through Netgalley at no cost to me.
Suffolk, 1944. American pilot Charlie’s second tour is about to draw to a close, but his heart is forever changed when he meets Kitty, a local girl with dreams of joining the Women’s Land Army. As love blooms, the pair are all too aware that every perilous mission Charlie flies may well be his last…
Suffolk, 2011. When Kitty’s granddaughter and ambitious tearoom owner Amy meets American tourist and photographer Jack, she agrees to show him around in exchange for his photographic talents. The deal quickly grows into an unexpected bond – but when long-buried secrets emerge, neither of their worlds will ever be the same again…
My rating:
Plot: 5 out of 5 stars
Writing: 5 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Historical Fiction
Review:
Review:
This is a beautifully written story about the impact of first love. Written over a dual time line it tells the story of Kitty which starts in 1944 The second time line starts in 2011 this timeline centers around Amy Kitty’s granddaughter a strong ambitious woman who runs her own tea room. Slowly the two time lines are interwoven and nicely concluded at the end.
The plot is well developed with a few twists and turns which keeps it interesting till the end.. The writing is very captivating and full of warmth. The characters are well developed, their actions are well explained this made them likeable and realistic.
Overall:
This is a well written book with a plot that flows well and captures you from the start. The story has nice realistic characters. It is a nice story without being too sweet so it felt realistic, the few twists and turns kept it interesting till the end without being too predictable. . I highly recommend reading it.
Review copy provided through Netgalley at no cost to me.
March 7, 2024
#Netgalley
#TheLostMemories
Dual timeline story set in Wartime Britain and present day in Suffolk, where during WW2 this small village is also home to American serviceman flying bombers daily and two young people meet, an American serviceman Charlie from Iowa and a young woman Kitty.
Kitty lives in the local pub with her father and sister Janie, who can't wait to marry her American boyfriend. As Charlie said to Kittie as they walked together for a picnic "yesterday was a good day" because "we all came back alive", this really chilling thought brings things home to Kitty who has already decided that she wants to join the WLA (women's land army), but she has no idea where she might be billeted. Kitty and Charlie both have one sombre thing in common, Kitty lost her mum when she was small and Charlie's mum is ill with leukaemia and he intends to return home to see his mum as soon as he can.
In present day Amy is running a tea shop and during a heritage event at the old airfield her gran is very uncertain about a lot of things but she is adamant that she is not going to the heritage event. As the story progresses, I found myself totally immersed in it, picking up the book at every opportunity to continue with the story of Charlie and Kitty.
I loved the community camaraderie in both timelines and the people living in the area with their own personal stories. Very atmospheric locations in the Suffolk countryside, the storyline is superb and it makes a very enjoyable read, and definitely one of those books that leaves you with a warm cosy feeling. I have read several books by Lorna Cook, and this is so lovely and well worthy of being a five-star read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this great book.
#TheLostMemories
Dual timeline story set in Wartime Britain and present day in Suffolk, where during WW2 this small village is also home to American serviceman flying bombers daily and two young people meet, an American serviceman Charlie from Iowa and a young woman Kitty.
Kitty lives in the local pub with her father and sister Janie, who can't wait to marry her American boyfriend. As Charlie said to Kittie as they walked together for a picnic "yesterday was a good day" because "we all came back alive", this really chilling thought brings things home to Kitty who has already decided that she wants to join the WLA (women's land army), but she has no idea where she might be billeted. Kitty and Charlie both have one sombre thing in common, Kitty lost her mum when she was small and Charlie's mum is ill with leukaemia and he intends to return home to see his mum as soon as he can.
In present day Amy is running a tea shop and during a heritage event at the old airfield her gran is very uncertain about a lot of things but she is adamant that she is not going to the heritage event. As the story progresses, I found myself totally immersed in it, picking up the book at every opportunity to continue with the story of Charlie and Kitty.
I loved the community camaraderie in both timelines and the people living in the area with their own personal stories. Very atmospheric locations in the Suffolk countryside, the storyline is superb and it makes a very enjoyable read, and definitely one of those books that leaves you with a warm cosy feeling. I have read several books by Lorna Cook, and this is so lovely and well worthy of being a five-star read.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this great book.
May 1, 2024
This dual timeline story shares the story of Kitty and Charlie in 1944 and that of Kitty's granddaughter, Amy in 2011. Both time frames sit comfortably together and as the stories start to weave together and overlap so a beautiful love story starts to emerge.
Long buried secrets which Kitty has kept hidden gives the book its heart and soul and as her story evolves so we get to know more about the quiet Suffolk village where her father owns the local pub and the effect of having a US air force base so close to the village has on the villagers. Time and place come alive and I was equally at home in 1944 sharing the excitement as the American bombers fly backwards and forwards on their missions into Europe, as I was with Amy's life in 2011 running her tea-shop and catering for local events.
This emotional story really tugs away at the heart strings but it is so beautifully described that I couldn't help but be invested in all of the characters, especially Kitty and Charlie in 1944 whose fated love story reiterated just how much couples suffered during the war time years. The uncertainty of life was never taken for granted, and young lovers living for the moment is given wings to fly in this lovely story of lost love, and forever love.
Beautifully written, and imaginatively described, as all this talented author's historical novels are, The Lost Memories is a story which lingers long after the last page is read.
Long buried secrets which Kitty has kept hidden gives the book its heart and soul and as her story evolves so we get to know more about the quiet Suffolk village where her father owns the local pub and the effect of having a US air force base so close to the village has on the villagers. Time and place come alive and I was equally at home in 1944 sharing the excitement as the American bombers fly backwards and forwards on their missions into Europe, as I was with Amy's life in 2011 running her tea-shop and catering for local events.
This emotional story really tugs away at the heart strings but it is so beautifully described that I couldn't help but be invested in all of the characters, especially Kitty and Charlie in 1944 whose fated love story reiterated just how much couples suffered during the war time years. The uncertainty of life was never taken for granted, and young lovers living for the moment is given wings to fly in this lovely story of lost love, and forever love.
Beautifully written, and imaginatively described, as all this talented author's historical novels are, The Lost Memories is a story which lingers long after the last page is read.
May 9, 2024
The Lost Memories
By: Lorna Cook
Review Score: 4 1/2 Stars
Boogie’s Bulletpoints
•I love the time jumps between 1944 and 2011.
•Cook does such an amazing job of balancing the historical fiction aspects of the story with romance.
•There are a few really great plot twists in this book!
•No spoilers, but I loved how the story ended.
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The Lost Memories was kindly provided as an ARC by Netgalley and Avon Books, UK. Thank you for allowing me to enjoy this wonderful book!
Release Date: Out now!
The Lost Memories is such a good book. We follow two timelines, Amy in 2011, and Kitty, her Grandmother, in 1944. I loved seeing how the two stories intertwined, but also loved the stories separately as well.
Cook does such an amazing job of bringing you into this family. Both women have complicated feelings about life and love, and you really get a good sense of that in the story.
I always love Historical Fiction books that give a new perspective, and this book definitely did that for me. Add in a little bit of romance, and you have one of my favorite recent reads.
By: Lorna Cook
Review Score: 4 1/2 Stars
Boogie’s Bulletpoints
•I love the time jumps between 1944 and 2011.
•Cook does such an amazing job of balancing the historical fiction aspects of the story with romance.
•There are a few really great plot twists in this book!
•No spoilers, but I loved how the story ended.
———————————————————————————————————
The Lost Memories was kindly provided as an ARC by Netgalley and Avon Books, UK. Thank you for allowing me to enjoy this wonderful book!
Release Date: Out now!
The Lost Memories is such a good book. We follow two timelines, Amy in 2011, and Kitty, her Grandmother, in 1944. I loved seeing how the two stories intertwined, but also loved the stories separately as well.
Cook does such an amazing job of bringing you into this family. Both women have complicated feelings about life and love, and you really get a good sense of that in the story.
I always love Historical Fiction books that give a new perspective, and this book definitely did that for me. Add in a little bit of romance, and you have one of my favorite recent reads.
June 27, 2025
Such a beautifully layered and emotional read. It’s one of those dual-timeline stories that really delivers on both timelines — Here both Kitty and Amy’s stories felt equally compelling.
Set partly in 1944 Suffolk during World War II, and partly in 2011, the novel follows Kitty, a young English woman who crosses paths with an American pilot named Charlie. Their connection is instant but complicated by the backdrop of war and the secrets they each carry. Fast forward to 2011, and we meet Amy, Kitty’s granddaughter, who is dealing with her own grief when she meets Jack, an American visitor
The romance in both timelines is tender and sweet, but it’s not just a love story — it’s about how the past shapes who we become. The emotional payoff was absolutely worth it. It’s the kind of book that leaves you with a soft ache in your chest and a quiet smile on your face.
If you love time-slip novels, gentle historical fiction, or anything with wartime secrets and a slow-burn emotional connection, this one’s a great pick.
Set partly in 1944 Suffolk during World War II, and partly in 2011, the novel follows Kitty, a young English woman who crosses paths with an American pilot named Charlie. Their connection is instant but complicated by the backdrop of war and the secrets they each carry. Fast forward to 2011, and we meet Amy, Kitty’s granddaughter, who is dealing with her own grief when she meets Jack, an American visitor
The romance in both timelines is tender and sweet, but it’s not just a love story — it’s about how the past shapes who we become. The emotional payoff was absolutely worth it. It’s the kind of book that leaves you with a soft ache in your chest and a quiet smile on your face.
If you love time-slip novels, gentle historical fiction, or anything with wartime secrets and a slow-burn emotional connection, this one’s a great pick.
February 21, 2024
This gorgeous cover is so perfect for a beautiful wartime romance. It's a story of first loves, lost loves, and true loves of two different generations of women. I read this book in one sitting and was completely enthralled by both timelines. Set in a small village in Suffolk in 1944, the reader gets an inside look at how fatigued people were as the war raged on. With an American bomber base close by, there was plenty of drama as B-17s carried out daytime bombings on targets in Europe. In 2011, very little has changed in the same village except that the airbase is long gone. If you love character-rich stories with romance that breaks your heart and heals your soul, you are in for a treat. I couldn't have put this book down once I started reading it for any reason. It was just what I needed today.
My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
March 2, 2024
Suffolk 1944: American pilot Charlie is just about finished his second tour, flying bombing missions in Europe. Life for a pilot is tentative but when he meets Kitty, his life and dreams change forever.
Suffolk 2011: Kitty's granddaughter Amy is a tearoom owner and has big ambitions for her business. With the help of her sister and occasional help of her mother, Amy's dream is to expand from tearoom and wedding cake making to a full catering business. When she meets American photograper Jack, she agrees to show him around her charming village in exchange for showing his photographic talents in her shop to their mutual benefit. A bond forms between them and when long held secrets emerge, both of their lives are impacted.
This is the sixth book I have read by Lorna Cook and it is a heartwarming, multi-generationsl love story and a delightful addition to her much loved books.
I love this story and thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read it prior to publication.
Suffolk 2011: Kitty's granddaughter Amy is a tearoom owner and has big ambitions for her business. With the help of her sister and occasional help of her mother, Amy's dream is to expand from tearoom and wedding cake making to a full catering business. When she meets American photograper Jack, she agrees to show him around her charming village in exchange for showing his photographic talents in her shop to their mutual benefit. A bond forms between them and when long held secrets emerge, both of their lives are impacted.
This is the sixth book I have read by Lorna Cook and it is a heartwarming, multi-generationsl love story and a delightful addition to her much loved books.
I love this story and thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read it prior to publication.
December 27, 2025
I have loved Lorna Cook's books since the beginning and am always thrilled at the chance to read another. I love her storytelling capabilities as well as the way she weaves history and present day together.
The Lost Memories is a dual timeline story. 1944 Suffolk introduces us to pilot Charlie as he is completing his second tour. But when he meets a local gal, Kitty, he finds a reason to want to return from his missions.
2011 Suffolk introduces us to Kitty's granddaughter, Amy. When she meets Jack, a photojournalist, they work together to unveil secrets that will change their lives forever.
I love the dual timeline. I loved the characters. I love that it is a clean story. Being a military family, I love reading about their adventures and how it changes their lives as well as their posterity. Definitely recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Lost Memories is a dual timeline story. 1944 Suffolk introduces us to pilot Charlie as he is completing his second tour. But when he meets a local gal, Kitty, he finds a reason to want to return from his missions.
2011 Suffolk introduces us to Kitty's granddaughter, Amy. When she meets Jack, a photojournalist, they work together to unveil secrets that will change their lives forever.
I love the dual timeline. I loved the characters. I love that it is a clean story. Being a military family, I love reading about their adventures and how it changes their lives as well as their posterity. Definitely recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 17, 2024
Beautiful story!
I absolutely loved this book. I flew through it, wanting to see more about Kitty and Charlie, and Amy and Jack. This is a dual timelines story, 1944-46 and 2011. Amy is Kitty’s granddaughter, her grandfather died when she was 4. Amy has her own business, a tea shop, but when her village has a remembrance ceremony for American soldiers who died there during the war, Amy meets Jack, there with her father and grandfather.
I don’t rate too many books 5 star, but this is one of them. Anyone who loves historical fiction in the UK will enjoy this book.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved this book. I flew through it, wanting to see more about Kitty and Charlie, and Amy and Jack. This is a dual timelines story, 1944-46 and 2011. Amy is Kitty’s granddaughter, her grandfather died when she was 4. Amy has her own business, a tea shop, but when her village has a remembrance ceremony for American soldiers who died there during the war, Amy meets Jack, there with her father and grandfather.
I don’t rate too many books 5 star, but this is one of them. Anyone who loves historical fiction in the UK will enjoy this book.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
April 4, 2024
Set in Suffolk in 1944 and 2011. A romance about grief, war, secrets and families. I loved the twists and turns as Amy discovers the secret her grandmother Kitty has kept hidden in the attic.
In 1940’s Kitty worked for her father in the local pub and longed to join the land army. She meets Charlie, a pilot based nearby and falls in love.
In 2011 Kitty’s granddaughter Amy has a tearoom and loves baking cakes and dreams of expanding her business into catering.
I loved the way Kitty’s story was revealed and how a chance meeting with a photographer helped Amy discover some of her grandmother’s secret.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Publishers for a chance to read and review this E-Book.
In 1940’s Kitty worked for her father in the local pub and longed to join the land army. She meets Charlie, a pilot based nearby and falls in love.
In 2011 Kitty’s granddaughter Amy has a tearoom and loves baking cakes and dreams of expanding her business into catering.
I loved the way Kitty’s story was revealed and how a chance meeting with a photographer helped Amy discover some of her grandmother’s secret.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Publishers for a chance to read and review this E-Book.
April 16, 2024
The Lost Memories is a duel timeline romantic historical novel set in Suffolk in 1944 & 2011.
In 1944, American pilot Charlie is close to finishing his second tour flying bombing missions in Europe when he meets a local girl Kitty. Love blossoms between the two; will fate lead them down the path they foresee for themselves.
In 2011, Amy, Kitty's granddaughter, who runs a tea room dreams of expanding her business. She is catering a local Heritage Day when she meets an American photographer. As the pair hit it off, past secrets begin to unfurl.
This is a charming and emotive read. A lot of research has gone into the book. If historical romance is up your street, then I highly recommend it.
In 1944, American pilot Charlie is close to finishing his second tour flying bombing missions in Europe when he meets a local girl Kitty. Love blossoms between the two; will fate lead them down the path they foresee for themselves.
In 2011, Amy, Kitty's granddaughter, who runs a tea room dreams of expanding her business. She is catering a local Heritage Day when she meets an American photographer. As the pair hit it off, past secrets begin to unfurl.
This is a charming and emotive read. A lot of research has gone into the book. If historical romance is up your street, then I highly recommend it.
March 1, 2024
This author is one of my favorites. She weaves a lovely story between two time periods. The story engages you from beginning to end. I know it is a good book when I look up some of the author's research material afterwards and I did with this one. This book covers a seldom mentioned historical venue--the American bombers who left and returned from places along the coast of England during World War 2. I loved the plot twist at the end.
One difficulty for me is the fantasy. I truly wish their were men (maybe there are, I just haven't met them) that were so honorable, sensitive and self sacrificing!
All in all, great book by a great author. Give it a read!
One difficulty for me is the fantasy. I truly wish their were men (maybe there are, I just haven't met them) that were so honorable, sensitive and self sacrificing!
All in all, great book by a great author. Give it a read!
March 5, 2024
1944, Suffolk, Kitty works in her Dad's pub but longs to join the Land Army girls. She meets Charlie, an American, based at the local camp. They quickly fall in love but the war seperates them
2011 and Amy runs her own teashop in a quaint Suffolk village, she meets Jack an American who's on holiday with his dad and grandfather, but it seems the path of true love is again being tested as miles threaten their budding relationship.
I love historical fiction and when it's a dual timeline novel that's even better. This story is an evocative tale and the words just flow from the page. A lovely story of first and lost love. It's heartwarming and uplifting.
2011 and Amy runs her own teashop in a quaint Suffolk village, she meets Jack an American who's on holiday with his dad and grandfather, but it seems the path of true love is again being tested as miles threaten their budding relationship.
I love historical fiction and when it's a dual timeline novel that's even better. This story is an evocative tale and the words just flow from the page. A lovely story of first and lost love. It's heartwarming and uplifting.
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