The Lost Orphans

by Ellie Curzon

London, 1941. “Help me, Jack” is Elsie’s last thought as the building crashes down around her and everything goes dark. Will she ever see her big brother again?

The war has robbed eight-year-old orphan Elsie of everything except her older brother Jack. Evacuated together, hand in hand they escaped a cruel farming family only to find their home destroyed, their mother gone. Wide-eyed Elsie hasn’t spoken since, and every night she cries for her mother, and for their father, lost at war.

Wandering under the falling ash, their stomachs twist with hunger and Jack knows he cannot protect Elsie alone. But everything changes when they join a rag-tag band of orphans, runaway evacuees who’ve returned to the city just like them. With nothing left to lose, the children stay above ground as Nazi planes fly overhead, determined to help others. But as they risk their lives, who will protect them?

Then during a night of terrible bombing, the unimaginable happens. Elsie disappears. Their faces streaked with tears, Jack and his friends search through the flames and smoke, knowing she has no voice to respond to their cries. Will anyone find her before it’s too late? And will the lost orphans ever find a safe home?

From the bestselling author of The Ration Book Baby comes a breathtaking, heartbreaking and uplifting wartime novel, inspired by a true story about runaway evacuees. Perfect for fans of Orphan Train, Sold on a Monday and Diney Costeloe.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, World War II

370 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 23, 2025

About the author

Ellie Curzon is the pen name of Catherine Curzon and Helen Barrell. Catherine and Helen began writing together in the spring of 2017 and swiftly discovered a shared love of the past and a uniquely British sort of story. They drink gallons of tea, spend hours discussing the importance of good tailoring and are never at a loss for a bit of derring-do.

Reviews

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping, moving, heartbreaking, uplifting and hard to put down! The Lost Orphans is historical fiction based on the true story of runaway child evacuees, called the Blitz kids, during the second world war. This book takes place in London during the Blitz when bombs were dropping, and lives were being lost or irrevocably changed forever! It was a time of fear, survival, tears, loss, horror but also a time of courage, kindness, bravery, and strength.

Eight years old Elsie and her older brother Jack become are evacuated during the bombings and land in the care of a barbaric family. After their escape Elsie and Jack find themselves alone until they met up with other orphans and runaways. The children band together to not only survive but to help others. But who will help them?????

I marveled at the resilience and bravery of the children who are put through so much. My heart ached for them while simultaneously cheering for them. I admired their bravery and ability to survive in an such a brutal and cruel world. They have suffered and lost so much but still had room in their little hearts to love, form friendships, to help others and survive a war. There is a saying/sentiment that reminded me of the children and some of the adults in this book: It is always those who have nothing or little to give who give the most. Kindness is such a beautiful thing and can change lives.

I was instantly drawn into this book through the wonderful writing and vivid descriptions of the writing duo of Catherine Curzon and Helen Barrell who write as Ellie Curzon. It is obvious they did their research and poured it into the writing of this wonderful first book in The Runaway Evacuees, their new series. I love books that causse me to think and feel and The Lost Orphans did both.

Wonderfully written, well thought out, moving, and hard to put down!

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of The Lost Orphans by Ellie Curzon. This is my first book by this author, but it won't be my last. It was amazing. Very moving and at times it was very heartbreaking. I had never heard of the "Blitz Kids" prior to reading this book. Although this book was a fictional story, it was based on the true story of runaway child evacuees. The book kept me engaged throughout the entire book. I would definitely recommend this book to others who like to read historical fiction. I gave this book a 5 star rating and I hope you enjoy it too. #Bookouture #EllieCurzon

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many books set in England during WW2, and it always surprises me when an author comes up with a new storyline. The Lost Orphans shares the story of homeless children during the blitz, as well as the black market and how they used children and homeless people to do the dirty work, considering them expendable. When war broke out, Elsie's and Jack's mother sent them to live in the country to keep them safe. They ended up on a farm where they were used as slaves, almost starved and beaten. They met 3 orphans there and they became a family. They ran away and headed back to London. Elsie and Jack were sure that their mother would take them all in. When they arrived at their home, there was a hole, and they were informed their mother had died. The five of them ended up living in an orphanage that wasn't any better than the farm they ran away from. When the orphanage gets bombed, they take advantage of the situation and end up living on the streets, but it is better than what they suffered at the hands of the nuns. They meet Mr. Wyngate and Lisette that night and they vow to take care of the kids. This is the story of what happens to them.

This was a wonderful story. It doesn't shy away from the horrors of the blitz that kills many people and destroys homes and businesses, but there is always hope. The group of friends end up helping save people during bombing raids and become local heroes called The Blitz Kids. This little group was based on a real group that were called The Dead End Kids. I was amazed at the bravery and resilience of this group of kids. Connie the song bird, Elsie the 8 year old who didn't speak and her older brother Jack who took care of her, Susan and her brother Ben and Ned, the boy with street smarts who was involved with the gangs and black market. They also had a little dog, Pippa, who actually helps them out of a few sticky situations. How these kids were able to survive in such situations was unbelievable and I admired their spunk, grit, honesty and street smarts. They were a found family along with some adults who helped them out. I really didn't know how bad some of the homes the evacuees were sent to could be, and I had no idea how the gang leaders and black marketers would use these children with no regard for their safety. I loved the ending of this one, and how hopeful it felt. The writing was excellent and drew me in from the start. I will definitely be watching for more books by this writing pair that make up Ellie Curzon.

[Stephanie Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful, unputdownable historical fiction!
The Blitz in London is raging, on and on , night after night. The bombs are completely indiscriminate in what they destroy; homes, orphanages, schools, etc., are being obliterated. Out of the destruction rises a group of brave children, who band together and become known as the “Blitz Kids” for their heroic efforts to save others.
The author’s notes at the end were fascinating! The “Blitz Kids” and their good deeds were based on an actual group of children, known as “ The Dead End Kids”.

* I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*

[Caroline’s Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elsie, and her older brother Jack are the only surviving members of their family. They embark on a perilous journey to find their parents, who mysteriously disappeared during the war. The devastation wrought by the conflict has left them with nothing but memories of their lost family and homeland.

With no other choice, Elsie and her brother Jack join a group of orphans and evacuees, fleeing for their lives as relentless bombs rain down. Amidst the chaos, Elsie is separated from Jack, leaving him and his friends to risk their lives once again to find her.

Ellie Curzon’s “The Lost Orphans” is a heart-wrenching tale of unwavering love and courage that transcends all comprehension. The story deeply moved me, evoking a river of tears that refused to subside.

This fast-paced novel has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I will cherish its memory for a lifetime. Curzon’s masterful storytelling immerses the reader in the story, allowing them to hear the ominous sounds of bombs and air raid sirens echoing through the pages. She breathes life into this harrowing tale, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and emotionally resonant experience.

[Sue Plant · Rating 4 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

the blitz kids.... the ones that people forgot.... they were sent to the country to stay safe when the blitz happened but some came back after the awful time they had there...

they reckoned it was safer in london than the country.... but the orphanage was just as worse.... but the night it was bombed ended up being the best night for the blitz kids

only at first elsie is trapped and needs help getting out
and though jack and his friends are trying to get elsie out it takes the appearance of a couple of adults to actually rescue them....

but all is not as it seems ... as someone is targeting the ones that nobody will miss and sending them out at great danger to themselves

what with the bombs and now this the blitz kids have their work cut out for themselves trying to stay one step ahead of the nuns and social services and helping during a time of need when london was a glow with fire...

its an interesting read that needs to be read that its all about the children at war... and not the adults... once you get your head around it and how helpless they feel but want to play their own part in the war its easier to understand and enjoy

[Dawn Lawrence Read_with_Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was totally unrealistic but I actually loved it. It’s a story of heartbreak, loss, fear and trust. The Blitz Kids are a bunch of orphans that are just trying to survive the war on their terms. There are tons of adventures along the way which makes for a really entertaining read. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this book I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Bookish Venturess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not even sure what to say. This is such an emotional story. I love seeing how it all eventually turned out for the lost orphans. The people that they end up finding and have looking over them is just amazing. I found it very interesting that a group of kids were doing so much in order to help those around them during the War.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Open The Lost Orphans and allow yourself to be transported back in time to WW2 London during the Blitz. Experience the explosions. Witness the loss. Understand the damage left behind. Visualize the devastation, the loss of life, the loss of life as they knew it.

Imagine being an evacuee that experienced the worst in the countryside. Instead of being safe you were beaten, starved and put to work. Imagine escaping and fleeing home to the East End only to find your home gone, your mum gone. It doesn't get any better when they are placed in an orphanage. The bombing of the orphanage gives them hope.

This is the story of six brave children that stopped and helped. They risked their lives to save others. They could be found helping with fires. They could be found all over the East Enl. Six children on their own, sleeping where they could. Making money where they could. They weren't only surviving, but thriving.They became known as the Blitz Kids. They became an inspiration to those around them and to me.

With the help of a few adults they find safety. A roof over their heads won't stop them. When the sirens blare the Blitz kids heed the call, helping those in need.

The story brought me to tears. The story had me jumping for joy. The story had me shivering in fear. The story had me wondering if I could be that brave. The story had me on edge. The danger felt real. The unexpected suspense had me reading faster needing to know what would happen.

[Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book: The Lost Orphans
Author: Ellie Curzon
Rating: 4/5 stars

The Lost Orphans was both a heartbreaking and harrowing WW2 story.
It follows main characters, young siblings Elsie and Jack, and how they managed to survive with a ragtag group of other orphans during The Blitz.

The story was bleak at times but kept me captivated. It was told through eight-year-old Elsie’s perspective, and it was sad and eye-opening as to what she and Jack experienced and what they had to endure. From being sent to live in the care of a cruel family to escaping back to war-torn London and banding together with other orphans on the streets - what they endure along the way makes them both extremely resilient.
This was especially true since Elsie, Jack, and the other orphans have no one to take care of them and must all learn to rely on each other to survive. They manage to form friendships and demonstrate how the power of love and positivity can persevere in dire situations.

The author���s writing in this story was vivid, descriptive, and had me feeling immersed in the story. It was clear that both authors, both Catherine Curzon and Helen Barrell, who write together under the pen name Ellie Curzon, did extensive research before writing about the WW2 time period.
The Lost Orphans is the first book in The Runaway Evacuees series, and I will be keeping an eye out for the other books in the series in the future.

Thank you very much again to Bookouture and NetGalley for allowing me to take part in the tour and for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Lost Orphans.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Orphans by Ellie Curzon is an entertaining historical novel and the first book in The Runaway Evacuees series which promises to be fabulous.
The action is set in London in 1940, with the occasional glimpses backwards. It surrounds a group of orphans who were bombed out. They band together as a unit, looking out for each other, and for those in need.
We see that the children are plucky and resourceful. Their bravery knows no bounds as they set about rescuing those who are trapped by the Blitz – hence they earn their name, The Blitz Kids.
Londoners were a brave bunch, full of the bulldog spirit. “No matter how many bombs Hitler sent, London carried on.” Not much stops them. They drink tea, keep calm and carry on.
There are some big-hearted characters within the novel. In contrast, there are also those who seek to profit from the misery of others.
All the characters were realistically drawn and very likable. I loved the bond that Elsie formed with a small dog called Pippa, and also with the big-hearted Mr Wyngate and Lisette.
The Lost Orphans was a thrilling adventure, full of derring do, heroes and villains. I was totally engrossed and read it in just an afternoon.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the first book in a powerful new World War II historical fiction series from Ellie Curzon, readers follow orphans Elsie and Jack as they struggle to survive the Blitz after being evacuated to the countryside where a cruel farming family exploits their loneliness. After escaping to London, they discover that their home has been destroyed and that their mother is dead, and Elsie becomes mute as they fall in with a band of orphaned former evacuees. During one particularly bad bombing raid, Elsie disappears, and Jack and his friends must find her before it is too late or they are all sent back to the country. With high stakes and an emotionally intense storyline, readers will love this powerful and moving new novel that focuses on children banding together, braving incredible dangers, and forming powerful relationships. The characters are the stars of the book, and their dynamics with each other are particularly emotional. Elsie and Jack’s relationship and character arcs are really well-written and will pull readers further into the story, while the depth of detail in both the characters and setting is absolutely fantastic. Brilliantly written and fascinating, this new World War II historical fiction series is a must-read for fans of Curzon’s other books and the genre.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lost Orphans is the first in The Runaway Evacuees Series, a lovely and harrowing story about what it means to be family during the horrors of World War II. Children were sent to the countryside in hopes of saving them but the experiences weren't always happy ones. Some of the children returned to war-torn London to search for loved ones. Loyalty, friendship and heartache play huge roles as families are lost and found. A group of these children went from London to billet at a farm where they were treated abysmally, always half starving and working hard. Elsie's wee dog, Pippa, is missing. Meanwhile, Mr. Wyngate rescues Lisette and they both go on to help others at great risk to themselves. Sir Edward Gray and Winston Churchill are characters as well.

Many of the characters are sweet and kind, others cruel. Brave actions of children (and adults) during the wars always astound me. Following the kids kept me engaged and riveted and the writing is beautiful. My heart was tugged several times. I look forward to the next in the series.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

📆 single, linear timeline
👀 dual POV.
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced

What an astonishing story, made even more so realising that the "Blitz kids" are based on a real life group of children known as the "Dead End kids".

The Lost Orphans is a beautiful story, full of loveable characters, my favourite of whom is definitely Elsie. What a star she was. It really bought home the realities of the war and the hardships and heartbreak that was faced by everyday people. Children really were orphaned, sent away to homes where the people weren't kind to them; and some ran away, back to London, deciding that they'd rather face the bombs than the cruelty of those entrusted with their care.

I loved the criminal undertones that ran throughout the book too. I can only imagine that the turmoil of war made it so much easier for petty criminals to operate.

I can't wait to see whats next for our plucky band of children in book 2. I'd also love to know more of Mr Wyngate's past, and of course what Lisette's Maman is up to!

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Orphans is a entertaining historical fiction about a group of orphans who find care and love from each other. It's the best historical fiction book that I have read for a long time. I became engrossed in the lives of the realistically drawn brave and courageous characters. I am a big dog lover so I fell in love with Pippa the little dog that befriends Elsie. I found myself holding my breath more than once and reaching out for the tissues. I love how rich in detail the plot is and the children's kindness despite not always being treated kindly themselves. The plot shines with resilience and determination and I am beyond thrilled that this is just the first of what promises to be a richly textured series. If I could give this book all the stars in the world I would that is how much I valued the story.

[Maree Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my 3rd Ellie Curzon novel and it certainly didn't disappoint. It lived up to all my expectations.

A fast paced story about brother and sister Jack and Elsie, who become orphaned during the war.
They live in an orphanage run by nuns, until it is obliterated by a bomb one night.
We follow them as they join up with other orphans and form a little family of their own.

These wonderful characters were so real to me. I felt like I was there with them, hearing the air raid sirens, feeling the ground shake as the bombs fell.
I laughed and cried along with them.

Ellie has become a must read author for me and I look forward to reading her next endeavour.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Danelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and its unique spin on WWII historical fiction. I found the children to be especially charming and often funny, even in their difficult situation as orphans living on the streets of London during the Blitz. At times I felt it was unlikely that a child as young as eight-year-old Elsie would speak or act the way she did, and that kept me from becoming completely absorbed in the story. Although during times of war I suppose children are, sadly, forced to grow up too fast. Overall, I was engaged, invested and eager to find out how things would end for these lost orphans and the adults who took it upon themselves to keep them safe. An enjoyable, uplifting read!

4 stars

Thank you NetGalley for the free advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet adventure story, a bit reminiscent of Enid Blyton, where the kids always save the day! Unrealistic but a jolly good tale, with a gang of war orphans bypassing the shelters to go out and help their fellow Londoners during the Blitz. Added fun of some warring black market gangs, and the romance between French singer Lisette and the mysterious Mr. Wyngate - I’m wondering if there will be a sequel as Lisette’s story left a lot of loose ends!

I would have liked a bit more about the black market dealings and those characters because for something that took up a lot of page time, it was never really fleshed out enough to get a real feel for what was going on.

Also for anyone who starts reading and gets worried about Pippa - the dog is fine :)

[Melissa * bookedwithmel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am obsessed with Ellie Curzon’s books. Every story is so well told. I always jump at the opportunity to get an early copy of their books because I never want to wait to read them.

I loved this one because we get the children’s perspective through Elsie. Such a young girl experiencing such scary things and persevering. I liked how connected she was to her fellow orphans and her older brother. Jack was determined to protect her against all odds. Elsie is wise beyond her years, and wants to help others like her and those that get insured in the blasts.

I love the nickname The Blitz Kids. It makes their predicament known to so many and helps them get acknowledgment for all that they do.

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.

[Emma Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was expecting this book to be just like most War books but this was certainly different and was a really good book to read.

It was wonderful to read about how the children ended up together how the hardship and cruelty they had to go through. The book was well written and certainly was very engaging it was sad in places and also happy on other bits of the book.

It was a nice way where all the children helped people when they needed rescuing and also how they gave to people to help them.

I liked the characters especially Elsie she seemed an adorable wee girl. They all worked well together.

Would recommend this book.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the characters in this book. The children were fabulous in the way they each brought their own strengths to the group and how they stuck together, and the two adult main characters were great in how they helped the children. Even though there were frightful and horrible things happening throughout the book, I just never felt a sense of fear for anyone; it's one of those books where you know everything will work out in the end. Overall, it was a fine read.
Used for the following challenges/prompts:
2025 Book Lover's Challenge by Book Girls' Guide-August: Books Written Under Pen Names

[Booklover BEV · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lighthearted compelling WW2 novel
The runaway evacuees book one.
St Mary's Orphanage London is bombed out, and this brother and sister Elsie and jack flee away from evil nun sister Benedict.
With Elsie missing the whole community and the blitz kids all pull together.
I loved reading the kids journey after Jack and Elsie loosing their mother is there hope of finding out their father away fighting is still alive.
A truly inspirational story of friendship and hardship all rolled into one story.
Its beautiful and look forward to more in the series.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspired by a true story, The Lost Orphans is the first book in The Runaway Evacuees series. I found it to be an uplifting and moving tale with inspiring characters. While it’s not my favourite Ellie Curzon book, as I felt it dragged a bit and was slow towards the end, the story beautifully highlighted themes of loyalty, kindness, and the importance of friendships. What an adventure these Evacuees had. I do look forward to the next in the series. 3 ½ stars
I would like to thank the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for my free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.

[Ashli Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling, fast-paced WWII historical fiction with strong characters and a gripping storyline.

I loved the sibling bond between Jack and Elsie—it was the heart of the book. The setting was vivid, and the idea of a group of kids navigating wartime London on their own felt fresh and kept me turning pages. There’s suspense, found family, and just the right amount of hope.

If you enjoy stories with young protagonists, high stakes, and a historical backdrop, The Lost Orphans is a great pick.

[Sue Sykes · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely read, lovely characters with a story of the children from a bombed orphanage who were badly treated and evacuated to the country and again treat very badly. On returning to London they became known as the children of the Blitz and how they helped people as the bombs dropped. Looking forward to the 2nd book in this coming series.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to the Publisher Bookouture for the early read.

[Keishea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly uplifting WWII historical fiction, The Runaway Evacuees Book One presents an inspiring WW2 novel, filled with hope and resilience.

Following the bombing of St. Mary's Orphanage in London, siblings Elsie and Jack escape the tyrannical Sister Benedict, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and courage.

This is a heartwarming tale of friendship and resilience, beautifully woven into one story, inspiring us to hold on to hope.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Orphans by Ellie Curzon.
The runaway evacuees book 1.
I really did enjoy this book. I loved the cover. That's why i signed up for this tour. It was very moving and emotional. It was very well researched. I did feel for the children. I felt their emotions. I read this in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I am getting more and more into historical reads. I did like the setting. London. I'm looking forward to the next book. I definitely recommend this book.

[Nethanja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Children needs protection but this group of orphans protect each other and help others. They became the Blitz Kids.
Can these children together with some helpful people change things during a difficult time?
This was a great heartwarming story. I enjoy reading this series.

Thank to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this story.

[Bob Grizzle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blitz KIds

This book was certainly different from most of the war novels I have read but that was what I really liked about it.Certainly it had it's moments of sadness and despair,but the characters especially the"Blitz Kids"brought about a feel good feeling to the book.Highly recommend.

[Caroline Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting WWII adventure starring a group of homeless kids who call themselves The Blitz Kids, a French singer, and a mysterious government agent with a heart of gold.