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What We Left Behind
1939. Bombs threaten London and five small children step onto a rickety train, clutching their gas masks, heading to an uncertain future…
When the war with Nazi Germany sends five displaced children to her door, Dodie Fitznorton knows life in her quiet village will never be the same. Her once orderly home is now strewn with odd socks and abandoned toast crusts, and she gasps when she discovers a flea-infested ginger kitten hidden away upstairs.
But the baggage these little ones bring is far more than just their tattered suitcases. Eight-year-old Olive trembles when spoken to and won’t say how she got a bruised lip, and her brother Peter seems angry at the entire world. Then Dodie meets the children’s grey-eyed American teacher, Patrick Winter, who makes her feel she’s not alone in this fight.
As darkness falls over Europe, Dodie's fragile sanctuary begins to feel like a fortress under siege. With whispers of spies in the village and the children’s precious futures at stake, Dodie must decide who to trust before everything she's built crumbles to ashes around her…
A deeply poignant tale of love forged in wartime – heartwarming, captivating and impossible to forget. Perfect for fans of The Secret Orphan, Before We Were Yours and Anna Stuart.
When the war with Nazi Germany sends five displaced children to her door, Dodie Fitznorton knows life in her quiet village will never be the same. Her once orderly home is now strewn with odd socks and abandoned toast crusts, and she gasps when she discovers a flea-infested ginger kitten hidden away upstairs.
But the baggage these little ones bring is far more than just their tattered suitcases. Eight-year-old Olive trembles when spoken to and won’t say how she got a bruised lip, and her brother Peter seems angry at the entire world. Then Dodie meets the children’s grey-eyed American teacher, Patrick Winter, who makes her feel she’s not alone in this fight.
As darkness falls over Europe, Dodie's fragile sanctuary begins to feel like a fortress under siege. With whispers of spies in the village and the children’s precious futures at stake, Dodie must decide who to trust before everything she's built crumbles to ashes around her…
A deeply poignant tale of love forged in wartime – heartwarming, captivating and impossible to forget. Perfect for fans of The Secret Orphan, Before We Were Yours and Anna Stuart.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2025
695 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 15, 2025
This book takes place during WW2 and focuses on children who were evacuated from East End London (away from their families) and taken to Wales, for their safety.
There are many themes touched on in the book. Racism, poverty, bullying, domestic violence. Often, some of these themes go hand in hand.
Everything was not sunshine for the children in their new environment. The reader witnessed the hardships of the children, missing their homes and parents, acting out from fear and loneliness. I think this was well portrayed.
And, we also see how the town reacts to them. They were not exactly welcomed with open arms in the beginning. The local teachers were actually quite miserable and uncooperative.
There are two main adult characters. One is Dodie, a host of the children. Patrick is one of the teachers who accompanied the children from London. Each one has its own sad backstory as they are drawn to each other. That creates its own little drama, apart from the children.
Part of the story was slow, a lot of narration as opposed to action. The characters of Peter and Dodie were slow to develop. I was anxious for everything and everybody to move on, and it/they did, eventually.
There are quite a few books about the evacuation of children. The prime motive was to keep them safe. But the toll it took on families and the children was palpable. It was a double-edged sword. I know that some children were even sent to Canada, never to return “home”. While this book was not the best one on this subject that I have read, it was interesting and informative.
I love it when I can learn something from a book. I learned a new phrase: “nineteen to a dozen”. Meaning: to speak rapidly and without stopping. (Source: www.merriam-webster.com) I’m surprised that, with the number of books I have read set in Britain, I have not run across this. Stored in my brain for future use!
In conclusion, it was a good read. I felt empathy for the children. I felt disgust for the school bullies. And, I felt frustrated with the relationship between Dodie and Peter.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
There are many themes touched on in the book. Racism, poverty, bullying, domestic violence. Often, some of these themes go hand in hand.
Everything was not sunshine for the children in their new environment. The reader witnessed the hardships of the children, missing their homes and parents, acting out from fear and loneliness. I think this was well portrayed.
And, we also see how the town reacts to them. They were not exactly welcomed with open arms in the beginning. The local teachers were actually quite miserable and uncooperative.
There are two main adult characters. One is Dodie, a host of the children. Patrick is one of the teachers who accompanied the children from London. Each one has its own sad backstory as they are drawn to each other. That creates its own little drama, apart from the children.
Part of the story was slow, a lot of narration as opposed to action. The characters of Peter and Dodie were slow to develop. I was anxious for everything and everybody to move on, and it/they did, eventually.
There are quite a few books about the evacuation of children. The prime motive was to keep them safe. But the toll it took on families and the children was palpable. It was a double-edged sword. I know that some children were even sent to Canada, never to return “home”. While this book was not the best one on this subject that I have read, it was interesting and informative.
I love it when I can learn something from a book. I learned a new phrase: “nineteen to a dozen”. Meaning: to speak rapidly and without stopping. (Source: www.merriam-webster.com) I’m surprised that, with the number of books I have read set in Britain, I have not run across this. Stored in my brain for future use!
In conclusion, it was a good read. I felt empathy for the children. I felt disgust for the school bullies. And, I felt frustrated with the relationship between Dodie and Peter.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
June 13, 2025
Luisa A. Jones’s “What We Left Behind” was a 4-star read. It picks up years later from her first two novels in this series but can be read as a standalone. Set during World War II, the novel focuses on the relocation of children for their safety. As a fan of Luisa A. Jones’s historical fiction style, I thoroughly enjoyed her writing. Her ability to create an atmospheric and touching narrative is a true talent. The well-developed characters and heartfelt moments in the story brought it to life. I love the entire series.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction, you’ll likely enjoy this book. Unlike some heavy, overly sad World War II novels, “What We Left Behind” was a pleasant and enjoyable read.
Thanks, Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction, you’ll likely enjoy this book. Unlike some heavy, overly sad World War II novels, “What We Left Behind” was a pleasant and enjoyable read.
Thanks, Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
April 26, 2025
What We Left Behind by Luisa A. Jones is a poignant and beautifully written historical novel set against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows Dodie Fitznorton, a compassionate woman whose quiet village life is upended when she takes in five young evacuees from London. As she navigates the emotional and physical challenges of caring for these children, each carrying hidden traumas, Dodie discovers resilience, love, and unexpected strength. With a heartwarming narrative, this novel captures the enduring human spirit during one of history’s darkest times. A beautifully written, emotional wartime fiction book. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy to preview; I am leaving this review voluntari
May 26, 2025
4.5 stars
For a historical fiction lover like me, this book about WW2 evacuees was like chocolate candy! I fell in love with all the characters so much, and the plot was so suspenseful, that it was really difficult to stop reading (housework, phooey!)
This was a very enjoyable, “readable” novel. The author’s notes at the end were very interesting, also. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
For a historical fiction lover like me, this book about WW2 evacuees was like chocolate candy! I fell in love with all the characters so much, and the plot was so suspenseful, that it was really difficult to stop reading (housework, phooey!)
This was a very enjoyable, “readable” novel. The author’s notes at the end were very interesting, also. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
*I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
June 14, 2025
This was a slow moving but heartwarming and enjoyable read. The children sent from their London homes to the Welsh countryside as WW2 began endured so much. In this situation, five of them were taken in by Dodie at her family’s estate. Despite the luxuries they enjoyed with Dodie, the children still longed to be with their poor parents in London.
Louisa A. Jones also shows us what it was like for people in the countryside who were told they must take children. I didn’t realize their school teachers often accompanied them.
I found myself wanting to read more about Dodie, Charlotte, Patrick and the children later, after finishing the book. It starts very slow, though. Be patient.
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
Louisa A. Jones also shows us what it was like for people in the countryside who were told they must take children. I didn’t realize their school teachers often accompanied them.
I found myself wanting to read more about Dodie, Charlotte, Patrick and the children later, after finishing the book. It starts very slow, though. Be patient.
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
May 30, 2025
This was a new author to me but I really enjoyed this book - so much so I found my self snatching a few minutes here and there just to read another chapter. The book had everything - humorous moments, very sad ones, death, domestic abuse, racism and feelings of abandonment. Many of the characters seemed unable to love themselves but as the book went on some of these reason became more apparent. There was also romantic moments - though the chief characters seemed to be doing all they could to avoid this. The story was about 5 children - 3 from one family and brother and sister from another. Peter and Olive came from a difficult family where Olive had issues of her own and Peter looked up to a bullying violent father. At times he was a thoroughly unlikeable child. Olive just wanted her mum and to be loved without fear of violence. The Clarke children were a novelty in rural Wales in their own right - of mixed heritage the villagers had not seen their like - the local children treated them very badly. But all 5 were evacuated with their teachers to Wales from the impoverished areas of the East End of London. They fell on their feet being taken in by Josephine (Dodie) and he sister in a large house where they were nurtured by the in house staff and eventually even Peter learned to be behave in a more appropriate manner. Mr Winter their teacher tried his hardest to integrate the children but eventually after his secrets emerged he found love with Dodie. Olive’s love for her mother was sad to read - though I did feel that her mother could have found a way to let them know she was OK. I think it’s obvious that this book had an impact on me - well written and well researched it really made you think about how difficult it must’ve been for those children evacuated during WW2 so far from home. Well worth it’s 5 stars - a very good read
May 19, 2025
I was lucky enough to be allowed to view an e-read ARC of this book, thanks to the publisher Storm Publishing and NetGalley.
It's 1939, and the threat of Britain becoming involved in the war with Nazi Germany sweeps the country. Parents in London have to make the difficult decision to send their precious children to the countryside in order to keep them safe.
Sent on a long train journey with two of their teachers to the village of Bryncarreg in Wales. The story focuses on the 5 children taken in by Mrs Havard and her sister Dodie Fitznorton. Olive and Peter, siblings who couldn't be more different. Quiet, well behaved, Olive misses her mother and jumps at every noise. Whilst Peter is a chip of the old block, with a temper and mouth that shocks his new carers. Siblings Michael, Barbara, and Shirley, eager to please, but subjected to vicious bullying due to their colour.
There's difficult times ahead for all involved as we follow them through the first half of the school year.
This was my first time reading this author, and certainly won't be the last as I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There were some difficult subjects covered, such as racism, domestic abuse, death, and war. All of which were carefully written and described, bringing them to light in an appropriate manner. All of these have a truthful account linked to research undertaken by the author, which is explained at the end of the book.
Amongst these heartbraking stories, there are uplifting and happy moments. I love Dodie's fighting spirit as she stands up for those she believes in and navigates her way as 'Aunt Dodie'. Michaels character was another that stood out to me, his love of his little sisters as he determinedly keeps them all together and tries to protect them from the abuse by locals.
I was very happy to see that the author has other books that detail the back stories to some of the other characters, and I can't wait to read them and learn more.
It's 1939, and the threat of Britain becoming involved in the war with Nazi Germany sweeps the country. Parents in London have to make the difficult decision to send their precious children to the countryside in order to keep them safe.
Sent on a long train journey with two of their teachers to the village of Bryncarreg in Wales. The story focuses on the 5 children taken in by Mrs Havard and her sister Dodie Fitznorton. Olive and Peter, siblings who couldn't be more different. Quiet, well behaved, Olive misses her mother and jumps at every noise. Whilst Peter is a chip of the old block, with a temper and mouth that shocks his new carers. Siblings Michael, Barbara, and Shirley, eager to please, but subjected to vicious bullying due to their colour.
There's difficult times ahead for all involved as we follow them through the first half of the school year.
This was my first time reading this author, and certainly won't be the last as I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There were some difficult subjects covered, such as racism, domestic abuse, death, and war. All of which were carefully written and described, bringing them to light in an appropriate manner. All of these have a truthful account linked to research undertaken by the author, which is explained at the end of the book.
Amongst these heartbraking stories, there are uplifting and happy moments. I love Dodie's fighting spirit as she stands up for those she believes in and navigates her way as 'Aunt Dodie'. Michaels character was another that stood out to me, his love of his little sisters as he determinedly keeps them all together and tries to protect them from the abuse by locals.
I was very happy to see that the author has other books that detail the back stories to some of the other characters, and I can't wait to read them and learn more.
April 24, 2025
"It was strange to be packing when no one knew where they were going." This is the first sentence of What We Left Behind, young Olive's thoughts as her mum puts her things in a pillowcase for her evacuation from London's East End. Although I've read many books about the children sent from cities to rural areas, this one made me consider problems I'd never considered before. Imagine being given a packing list by the government, but you're too poor even to have most of the items! This story is set in 1939, long before Germany bombed any British cities...would you even send your kids away, not knowing where they'd be or if they would be billeted together?
There is much more to this book than just the story of children evacuated to Wales. Through the different characters, the author addresses the problems of women trapped in violent marriages, ugly racism, immigrant issues, and LGBTQ realities. With several of the main characters, we see that unresolved childhood traumas only fester in adults, affecting their careers and personal relationships. But the story is ultimately uplifting, showing it's possible to heal, forgive, and move forward. There's something here for everyone...a little romance, family dynamics, and some wonderful teaching moments with the East End evacuees. I recommend a quiet space, a hot beverage, and some tissues when you read about the Christmas party. I hope this is the beginning of a series because I loved it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read the ARC. The review and all opinions are entirely my own.
There is much more to this book than just the story of children evacuated to Wales. Through the different characters, the author addresses the problems of women trapped in violent marriages, ugly racism, immigrant issues, and LGBTQ realities. With several of the main characters, we see that unresolved childhood traumas only fester in adults, affecting their careers and personal relationships. But the story is ultimately uplifting, showing it's possible to heal, forgive, and move forward. There's something here for everyone...a little romance, family dynamics, and some wonderful teaching moments with the East End evacuees. I recommend a quiet space, a hot beverage, and some tissues when you read about the Christmas party. I hope this is the beginning of a series because I loved it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read the ARC. The review and all opinions are entirely my own.
May 6, 2025
I had no idea that Operation Pied Piper sent children to Wales until I read What We Left Behind. History books have done a disservice by not sharing more, explaining more. Books like this one fill the gap. Without planning to, they always encourage me to learn more.
As I read the story all I could think of was how challenging it must have been for everyone. Children were put on a train, taken away from their families, and dropped off in towns. I could feel their fear through the pages. The tension exploded as they waited in a room hoping to be chosen but fearing if they would be safe where ever they are taken.
The story centers around two sets of children who refused to be separated from their siblings all from the East End. Prejudice within the town make it difficult for Michael and his two sisters. They would fight daily challenges because of their darker skin. For Olive and her brother, their unkept appearance made them undesirable. The children that nobody wanted ended up in the best possible place with Dodie.
The story helped me to understand some of the challenges that the evacuees experienced. It also illustrates the animosity toward them. The changes that a town had to go through were immense. Not all greeted the children with open arms. What We Left Behind took me on a journey leaving me in tears. Great intensions aren't always the best answer.
As I read the story all I could think of was how challenging it must have been for everyone. Children were put on a train, taken away from their families, and dropped off in towns. I could feel their fear through the pages. The tension exploded as they waited in a room hoping to be chosen but fearing if they would be safe where ever they are taken.
The story centers around two sets of children who refused to be separated from their siblings all from the East End. Prejudice within the town make it difficult for Michael and his two sisters. They would fight daily challenges because of their darker skin. For Olive and her brother, their unkept appearance made them undesirable. The children that nobody wanted ended up in the best possible place with Dodie.
The story helped me to understand some of the challenges that the evacuees experienced. It also illustrates the animosity toward them. The changes that a town had to go through were immense. Not all greeted the children with open arms. What We Left Behind took me on a journey leaving me in tears. Great intensions aren't always the best answer.
May 1, 2025
What We Left Behind is set in the early months of WWII. London's children are being evacuated to safer countries, and this is what happens to the five children of this novel - they leave their families behind to travel to Wales along with their two teachers. The POV's alternate between one of the children, Olive, one of the teachers, Patrick Winter, and one of the foster parents, Dodie Fitznorton.
There's a lot of adjusting to do for everyone involved; the London children are bullied at school, they have attitude problems, the teachers are accused of being spies, and Dodie and her sister have to adjust to having so many young children in the house. While it's set in the early years of the war, the war content wasn't the main focus - it's a character focused novel more than anything.
There were parts of this story that I really liked, especially with the adjustments the children were having to make with the sudden changes in their lives, though the later half of the book seemed to focus more on the adults and their romance than on the kids and their families.
There's a lot of adjusting to do for everyone involved; the London children are bullied at school, they have attitude problems, the teachers are accused of being spies, and Dodie and her sister have to adjust to having so many young children in the house. While it's set in the early years of the war, the war content wasn't the main focus - it's a character focused novel more than anything.
There were parts of this story that I really liked, especially with the adjustments the children were having to make with the sudden changes in their lives, though the later half of the book seemed to focus more on the adults and their romance than on the kids and their families.
August 8, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down. It took me two days to read it. It’s set in World War II but it’s not about the war itself I t’s about evacuated children and two ladies from aristocracy that take on the evacuees. Dodie is a shy quiet young woman living in the family home with her older sister. They take on five evacuees from London, the plan was only to take two but they ended up with five. We follow the lives of the evacuees, Michael, Barbara, Shirley, Olive and Peter as they settle in as evacuees and learn the differences between life in London and living in Wales. Alongside this Dodi, who is living with her sister in Plas Norton mansion, is suffering from having been sent away from home at the age of 6 or 7 to a boarding school. She was isolated and bullied at school and couldn’t forgive her sister for sending her away. The evacuees bring two teachers with them but one soon returns to London. Patrick Winter remains with the children. He’s a good teacher, kind to the children but he carries his own demons. Dodie and Patrick become close and a spark of passion ignites between them as they try to help Olive and Peter with their emotional struggles and understand why they don’t receive letters from their parents.
May 25, 2025
An endearing and authentic insight into a Welsh community hosting evacuees at the onset of the Second World War.
What We Left Behind feels so thorough in its content and captured all aspects - the confused evacuated children; the poverty and abusive home left behind in London; a quiet rural village with uninvited guests thrust upon them and the physical and emotional challenges this brings; plus elements of racism and bullying. This novel really portrays the impact and the strain that evacuation had on everyone concerned. I really sensed how every character was ‘doing their best’ in uncertain circumstances.
The characters are a highlight of this novel and bring a touch of everything including Dodie the heroine; Mr Winter the hero; Miss Honeycutt the heartless, callous Headteacher; and Olive and Peter’s father the violent villain. But I must admit to a bit of favouritism towards Ivor and Dolly - such a unique and joyful couple with a no-nonsense approach, yet so very caring and eager to teach the children valuable life skills. I felt there were beams of humour and charm that just radiated from Ivor and Dolly - and I’d love to spend a day in their company!
What We Left Behind is well-researched; informative; thought-provoking; and beautifully crafted. I was absorbed in the story and would love to be reunited with these characters in a later instalment.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for an advance digital copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What We Left Behind feels so thorough in its content and captured all aspects - the confused evacuated children; the poverty and abusive home left behind in London; a quiet rural village with uninvited guests thrust upon them and the physical and emotional challenges this brings; plus elements of racism and bullying. This novel really portrays the impact and the strain that evacuation had on everyone concerned. I really sensed how every character was ‘doing their best’ in uncertain circumstances.
The characters are a highlight of this novel and bring a touch of everything including Dodie the heroine; Mr Winter the hero; Miss Honeycutt the heartless, callous Headteacher; and Olive and Peter’s father the violent villain. But I must admit to a bit of favouritism towards Ivor and Dolly - such a unique and joyful couple with a no-nonsense approach, yet so very caring and eager to teach the children valuable life skills. I felt there were beams of humour and charm that just radiated from Ivor and Dolly - and I’d love to spend a day in their company!
What We Left Behind is well-researched; informative; thought-provoking; and beautifully crafted. I was absorbed in the story and would love to be reunited with these characters in a later instalment.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for an advance digital copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2025
Happy pub day to Luisa A.Jones and her new novel What We Left Behind.
Dodie returned to her small Welsh village after her life in London fell apart. When a trainload of evacuees arrives and five children need a place to stay she offers up places in her family’s grand home. The children struggle to fit in with the village children but their new home becomes a haven for them as they adjust to life in the country. Their American teacher, Mr.Winter, does his best to keep an eye on all the evacuees and make sure they continue to receive the best education he can provide.
This is a really sweet story. I really enjoy found family stories as well as ones about people coming together in hard times and this is both. Apparently there is a book which preceded this one, which I have added to my ever growing TBR list, about Dodie’s mother.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Books for letting me have a copy of What Ee Left Behind for review.
Dodie returned to her small Welsh village after her life in London fell apart. When a trainload of evacuees arrives and five children need a place to stay she offers up places in her family’s grand home. The children struggle to fit in with the village children but their new home becomes a haven for them as they adjust to life in the country. Their American teacher, Mr.Winter, does his best to keep an eye on all the evacuees and make sure they continue to receive the best education he can provide.
This is a really sweet story. I really enjoy found family stories as well as ones about people coming together in hard times and this is both. Apparently there is a book which preceded this one, which I have added to my ever growing TBR list, about Dodie’s mother.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Books for letting me have a copy of What Ee Left Behind for review.
April 28, 2025
This was a thought provoking book. Dealing with trauma, especially as a child, and its impact even as a an adult is a central theme in this beautifully crafted story. When Dodie ends up with 5 children to billet, rather than the two she expected, there is a lot to deal with. Olive and Peter come from a dysfunctional family and Michael, Shirley and Barbara are coloured, and stand out in this rural Welsh community where they have been sent for their safety. Patrick, the teacher who comes with them is wonderful, despite his own issues. As the story progresses, everyone makes progress in some ways, and it was a very touching and rewarding ending. This book shone a light on British society at the time, with its poverty and narrow mindedness of some. Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 8, 2025
Read his full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
War is on the horizon and the bombing of London is expected to commence soon. Children are torn from their homes, assembled, and sent miles away to the Welch countryside.
The attitude of the men living in England was one of patriotism or shame that they were not fit for military service. Looked upon as less than manly, their favorite escapism is beating their wives and children.
The volunteers who take these children in are burdened with more mouths to feed. Letters from home are very important to help the children adapt but they are often misplaced or not sent at all during this tumultuous time.
This story visits the nightmares that were endured by both the caregiving volunteers and the children they were trying to help. The author is very adept at providing a look into this very tumultuous time in history. The story is both heart-wrenching and engaging at the same time. Enjoy! 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review these books. Any opinion expressed here is my own.
War is on the horizon and the bombing of London is expected to commence soon. Children are torn from their homes, assembled, and sent miles away to the Welch countryside.
The attitude of the men living in England was one of patriotism or shame that they were not fit for military service. Looked upon as less than manly, their favorite escapism is beating their wives and children.
The volunteers who take these children in are burdened with more mouths to feed. Letters from home are very important to help the children adapt but they are often misplaced or not sent at all during this tumultuous time.
This story visits the nightmares that were endured by both the caregiving volunteers and the children they were trying to help. The author is very adept at providing a look into this very tumultuous time in history. The story is both heart-wrenching and engaging at the same time. Enjoy! 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review these books. Any opinion expressed here is my own.
April 23, 2025
1939 WW2 saga.
What we left behind is a delightful story of evacuees leaving London to Wales missing home and family.
Plas Norton Pontybrenin.
A quiet little village,
Miss Dodie Fitznorton the local librarian finds five children on her doorstep, her life will never be the same for a good while.
Olive along with her brother Peter the war began with goodbye, with her little pillowcase they don't get any letters and start to fret, so Dodie along with school teacher Patrick Winter set off on the train journey to find what has happened to their parents.
A totally enchanted story that was a delight to read for me.
Now hopefully maybe a book two to follow to learn more about Michael and his two sisters and how all of them get on living in Plas Norton during the dreadful war years. hope there is.
Loved it.
What we left behind is a delightful story of evacuees leaving London to Wales missing home and family.
Plas Norton Pontybrenin.
A quiet little village,
Miss Dodie Fitznorton the local librarian finds five children on her doorstep, her life will never be the same for a good while.
Olive along with her brother Peter the war began with goodbye, with her little pillowcase they don't get any letters and start to fret, so Dodie along with school teacher Patrick Winter set off on the train journey to find what has happened to their parents.
A totally enchanted story that was a delight to read for me.
Now hopefully maybe a book two to follow to learn more about Michael and his two sisters and how all of them get on living in Plas Norton during the dreadful war years. hope there is.
Loved it.
May 25, 2025
What We Left Behind
By: Luisa A. Jones
4 Stars
I've read so many books about the war. Some real. Some fictions. Always from an adult viewpoint. This book is through the eyes of a child. Or children. It has an innocence about it. Despite that innocence, it was real and raw and told a sadder story. Olive, her brother Peter, and several other children are shipped away from home when England joins the war. Fear for their safety amongst possible bomb threats has them shipped far away in the care of caring teachers. War is different when so far away, but war is not always guns and bombs. It can be harsh words and loneliness.
This was such a heartwrenching and heartwarming story. War is always a sad affair, but when dealing with children, it just seems a little harsher. This story was not only about war. It was about forgiveness and growth. It was about making the best of a bad situation. The teachers play just as much of a role in this story. Providing comfort and love. To the children as well as each other.
I really enjoyed this book. It was moving and real. It was innocence and darkness all in one. It shows that light is always at the end of a dark night.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: Luisa A. Jones
4 Stars
I've read so many books about the war. Some real. Some fictions. Always from an adult viewpoint. This book is through the eyes of a child. Or children. It has an innocence about it. Despite that innocence, it was real and raw and told a sadder story. Olive, her brother Peter, and several other children are shipped away from home when England joins the war. Fear for their safety amongst possible bomb threats has them shipped far away in the care of caring teachers. War is different when so far away, but war is not always guns and bombs. It can be harsh words and loneliness.
This was such a heartwrenching and heartwarming story. War is always a sad affair, but when dealing with children, it just seems a little harsher. This story was not only about war. It was about forgiveness and growth. It was about making the best of a bad situation. The teachers play just as much of a role in this story. Providing comfort and love. To the children as well as each other.
I really enjoyed this book. It was moving and real. It was innocence and darkness all in one. It shows that light is always at the end of a dark night.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
May 15, 2025
A truly wonderful book. Not only has Luisa encompassed the feelings of the evacuees, being shipped from London to Wales, she has also enabled the reader to see the impact on the locals in that area. The feelings and apprehensions cross all classes - for example the evacuees having lost so much as other characters did growing up, leading to empathy. Thoroughly researched and a joy to read. Diolch.
May 26, 2025
Thank you Luisa Jones for bringing this story to life. As a child I grew up hearing testimonies of people, in their twilight years who had been evacuees and also those who had been host families. I remember hearing of the struggles to settle in to new ways of living and the stories of how ashamed they were of not being hospitable to the incomers. As you get to know the children, my heart went out to them, and we have modern equivalents in the families who have settled here from the Caribbean, from the Far East, from Iraq and Turkey and from the Ukraine. It makes me wonder whether or not we have got any better at being hospitable? As we moved through the events of this story, as the events played out, my heart went out to all the people in this story (and the people around the world today who have lived through these events). Luisa made it all seem real. (I had never thought about driving in the city in the Blitz and that was most interesting). Thank you to netgalley and to Storm publishing for the Arc and for the days and nights of thinking through and processing the implications of this story. I have loved every minute of it.
May 30, 2025
This was an ARC I received from NetGalley.
This tale of WWII was a different take compared to a lot of the ones I’ve read. This story is about a woman named Dotie, who takes in a group of children who have been evacuated from London. The children struggle to fit in with the country children, and are bullied and harassed by them. Not only that, but the local parents don’t want the education of their children to be impacted by these displaced city kids. Dotie finds herself fighting for the basic rights for her young tenants, and growing feelings along the way.
I enjoyed this side of the war story, and found myself surprised that I hadn’t thought more on these types of difficulties people faced.
This tale of WWII was a different take compared to a lot of the ones I’ve read. This story is about a woman named Dotie, who takes in a group of children who have been evacuated from London. The children struggle to fit in with the country children, and are bullied and harassed by them. Not only that, but the local parents don’t want the education of their children to be impacted by these displaced city kids. Dotie finds herself fighting for the basic rights for her young tenants, and growing feelings along the way.
I enjoyed this side of the war story, and found myself surprised that I hadn’t thought more on these types of difficulties people faced.
May 30, 2025
England is on the brink of WW2, In the heart of the East End of London, parents are sending off their children to not only unknown destinations but to people.
The main focus are five children: one set of siblings live in fear of domestic violence and the others are mixed race.
The children find themselves in Wales, although in a big house, they feel lost.
Host Dodie has issues from her childhood that she has to fight and avoids conflict.
Life in rural Wales is hard for the children as they are always fighting to losing battle. Be it through racism, neglect or confusion, every character in this book is fighting their own battle.
The main focus are five children: one set of siblings live in fear of domestic violence and the others are mixed race.
The children find themselves in Wales, although in a big house, they feel lost.
Host Dodie has issues from her childhood that she has to fight and avoids conflict.
Life in rural Wales is hard for the children as they are always fighting to losing battle. Be it through racism, neglect or confusion, every character in this book is fighting their own battle.
May 30, 2025
First book I’ve read from this author and I wasn’t disappointed. What a lovely, heartwarming book. A story of evacuees from London, Ollie and Peter whose home life is fraught with an abusive father. They are taken in by Dodie and her sister and eventually start to flourish. There’s also a love story that unfolds. Nice, easy read for sitting in the garden on a sunny day.
May 26, 2025
I didn't know what to expect from this WWII historical novel, but I was pleasantly surprised by the characters, the plot and the author's quality writing. All the dialogue ringed true as did the situations.
Compared to other stories about children evacuated from London which I have read, this one seemed more realistic. The setting in Wales was interesting. I appreciated both the children's storyline as well as the adult's. I really felt I got to know them and share in their concerns and troubles.
I can recommend this heartfelt book to anyone interested in what evacuated children and their hosts went through during that historical period.
Compared to other stories about children evacuated from London which I have read, this one seemed more realistic. The setting in Wales was interesting. I appreciated both the children's storyline as well as the adult's. I really felt I got to know them and share in their concerns and troubles.
I can recommend this heartfelt book to anyone interested in what evacuated children and their hosts went through during that historical period.
July 16, 2025
Interesting story
Enjoyed this book very much.
Couldn't stop reading it, found lots of history of the WW11 in Wales and London
Enjoyed this book very much.
Couldn't stop reading it, found lots of history of the WW11 in Wales and London
May 28, 2025
Such a wonderful and emotional historical story.
The author really brought so much enthralling drama to this war themed story.
We get to witness the heartbreak of leaving home, the threat of war and also having to adapt to a whole new environment.
Through several characters we are given a glimpse of life in early wartime Britain. Olive is escaping more than just bombs as she leaves behind her troubled family life.
Dodie takes on the misfits from the evacuated children sent to Wales , her own past makes her want to embrace them and to offer a home and love.
It was so wonderful to share the experiences of all the characters, overcoming their own battles, they all come together supporting each other and making the best of a difficult time.
It was a really inspiring and thought provoking book.
A great storyline with so many emotional moments to savour - I will definitely be reading more from this skilled storyteller.
The author really brought so much enthralling drama to this war themed story.
We get to witness the heartbreak of leaving home, the threat of war and also having to adapt to a whole new environment.
Through several characters we are given a glimpse of life in early wartime Britain. Olive is escaping more than just bombs as she leaves behind her troubled family life.
Dodie takes on the misfits from the evacuated children sent to Wales , her own past makes her want to embrace them and to offer a home and love.
It was so wonderful to share the experiences of all the characters, overcoming their own battles, they all come together supporting each other and making the best of a difficult time.
It was a really inspiring and thought provoking book.
A great storyline with so many emotional moments to savour - I will definitely be reading more from this skilled storyteller.
August 30, 2025
Luisa A. Jones’s What We Left Behind is a moving, atmospheric novel that brings to life the heartbreak and resilience of WWII evacuees. In 1939, as war looms, children are sent from London to the countryside for safety. Among them are Olive and her younger brother Peter, already carrying the scars of neglect and abuse, and Michael with his siblings, who find themselves singled out for looking “different” in a small Welsh village unprepared for their arrival.
Dodie Fitznorton, along with her widowed sister Charlotte, opens her home to these children. But while Dodie is determined to provide sanctuary, Charlotte’s rigid standards and the suspicion of the villagers create a climate of hostility that makes survival an emotional battle as much as a physical one. Olive’s silence, Peter’s rage, and the prejudice faced by Michael and his family echo the traumas of displacement, forcing Dodie—and the children’s teacher, American Patrick Winter—to find courage where others turn to fear.
Jones writes with tenderness and authenticity, capturing both the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities of war, prejudice, and family bonds tested under pressure. The historical detail is meticulous without ever overwhelming the story, while themes of class, racism, and resilience feel strikingly relevant today. The shifting perspectives, especially Olive’s, give the novel a depth that lingers long after the last page.
What We Left Behind is not just a wartime story but a timeless reminder of compassion, belonging, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of uncertainty. Heart-wrenching yet hopeful, it’s a beautifully written tale that will stay with readers long after they close the book.
Dodie Fitznorton, along with her widowed sister Charlotte, opens her home to these children. But while Dodie is determined to provide sanctuary, Charlotte’s rigid standards and the suspicion of the villagers create a climate of hostility that makes survival an emotional battle as much as a physical one. Olive’s silence, Peter’s rage, and the prejudice faced by Michael and his family echo the traumas of displacement, forcing Dodie—and the children’s teacher, American Patrick Winter—to find courage where others turn to fear.
Jones writes with tenderness and authenticity, capturing both the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities of war, prejudice, and family bonds tested under pressure. The historical detail is meticulous without ever overwhelming the story, while themes of class, racism, and resilience feel strikingly relevant today. The shifting perspectives, especially Olive’s, give the novel a depth that lingers long after the last page.
What We Left Behind is not just a wartime story but a timeless reminder of compassion, belonging, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of uncertainty. Heart-wrenching yet hopeful, it’s a beautifully written tale that will stay with readers long after they close the book.
May 13, 2025
In 1939, London children are sent elsewhere by their parents in desperation to keep them safe from the devastation of World War II. In this novel, children travel to Wales where billets pick and choose which look the most promising. Dodie Fitznorton's plan is to take two children home with her to Plas Norton, a mansion where she grew up. However, five impoverished and underfed children from two different families are left to the end and Dodie agrees they shouldn't be separated from each other. Besides. Her home...and heart...are huge. Housekeeper Aunt Dolly and her husband Ivor provide for them in every way they can from delicious meals to their first baths to comfortable beds. The children are confused, miss their parents and desperate for love. Their needs are shown in various ways from clinginess to aggression. Peter unfortunately emulated his abusive father while Olive finds solace in her borrowed doll.
My heart was torn out many times while reading the achingly beautiful descriptions of important firsts such as seeing deer, developing relationships, the role of education at school and the library where Dodie works and navigating life in new territory for children and adults alike. Bullying is prevalent wherever they turn. But the children find safety and security in the tender care of Dodie and her household with the exception of her step sister who isn't emotionally present. Their teacher, American Patrick Winter, is a quiet and lovely man who becomes a dear friend of Dodie and champions her charges. Not everyone is welcoming, however.
This novel gripped my attention every moment. I became emotionally involved with many of the characters and cared about their welfare. Dodie is the kind of woman I'd love to be friends with. Her secret shame and her love for her late mother stirred my heart. War created and deepened scars which often took a long time to heal, sometimes a lifetime. The author's writing is gorgeous, haunting, tender and raw and pulled me into another world. I like that the story is realistic and includes both the good and bad. A must read in my view.
My heart was torn out many times while reading the achingly beautiful descriptions of important firsts such as seeing deer, developing relationships, the role of education at school and the library where Dodie works and navigating life in new territory for children and adults alike. Bullying is prevalent wherever they turn. But the children find safety and security in the tender care of Dodie and her household with the exception of her step sister who isn't emotionally present. Their teacher, American Patrick Winter, is a quiet and lovely man who becomes a dear friend of Dodie and champions her charges. Not everyone is welcoming, however.
This novel gripped my attention every moment. I became emotionally involved with many of the characters and cared about their welfare. Dodie is the kind of woman I'd love to be friends with. Her secret shame and her love for her late mother stirred my heart. War created and deepened scars which often took a long time to heal, sometimes a lifetime. The author's writing is gorgeous, haunting, tender and raw and pulled me into another world. I like that the story is realistic and includes both the good and bad. A must read in my view.
October 13, 2025
A beautifully written World War II novel focusing on evacuated children from the East End. This heartwarming story explores the love forged through difficult circumstances, discrimination, abuse and many more. What We Left Behind delves into unforgettable themes that leave a lasting impression. 4 stars
June 23, 2025
4 stars from me! I really enjoyed this one—especially the main characters. I love historical fiction, and this was the first I’ve read that focused on the children evacuated from London during the war. The story does a great job fleshing out each of their backgrounds, and I liked how everything tied together in the end. A moving, well-paced read with heart.
October 1, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book, both for its writing style and the easy reading. My only struggle was with the subject matter itself, which is understandable given the heavy themes. As a mother, parts of this story were especially difficult to imagine. I know I would have turned my whole world upside down to go with my children in those circumstances. That said, the story is told only from the children’s perspective, so we don’t fully know what choices or limitations the parents faced at the time.
What impressed me most was the ending. This is the first book I’ve read where I wasn’t frustrated that it didn’t tie everything up with a neat little bow. Instead, it closed exactly as it needed to, leaving space for me, as the reader, to process and draw my own conclusions.
The characters were beautifully written, and I became attached to many of them, especially the children. There was even one I wanted to shake at times, but only out of love and understanding. LOL
Luisa A. Jones has a gift for storytelling, and I’ll definitely be seeking out more of her work.
What impressed me most was the ending. This is the first book I’ve read where I wasn’t frustrated that it didn’t tie everything up with a neat little bow. Instead, it closed exactly as it needed to, leaving space for me, as the reader, to process and draw my own conclusions.
The characters were beautifully written, and I became attached to many of them, especially the children. There was even one I wanted to shake at times, but only out of love and understanding. LOL
Luisa A. Jones has a gift for storytelling, and I’ll definitely be seeking out more of her work.
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