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Wherever You Will Go: A Heartbreaking World War II Story of Love, Loss, and Survival
Her husband vanishes. The truth lies buried in wartime London.
The day after their wedding in Dominica, LeJeune sails to England to build a home for them. When Essie receives only a single letter from him, she must leave her Caribbean home and travel across the ocean to post-WWII London, determined to uncover what really happened.
In Stepney, the people who knew him—his army friend and the woman who first captured his heart—hold pieces of the truth. As Essie digs deeper, secrets from his wartime past begin to unravel, threatening everything she believed about love, loyalty, and herself.
Wherever You Will Go is an emotional, dual-timeline story of courage, hidden histories, and a young woman forging her own path in a divided city. Perfect for fans of World War II fiction, historical romance, and unforgettable heroines.
Begin Essie’s unforgettable journey today.
The day after their wedding in Dominica, LeJeune sails to England to build a home for them. When Essie receives only a single letter from him, she must leave her Caribbean home and travel across the ocean to post-WWII London, determined to uncover what really happened.
In Stepney, the people who knew him—his army friend and the woman who first captured his heart—hold pieces of the truth. As Essie digs deeper, secrets from his wartime past begin to unravel, threatening everything she believed about love, loyalty, and herself.
Wherever You Will Go is an emotional, dual-timeline story of courage, hidden histories, and a young woman forging her own path in a divided city. Perfect for fans of World War II fiction, historical romance, and unforgettable heroines.
Begin Essie’s unforgettable journey today.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 12, 2025
About the author
Fran Clark
8 books31 followersLondon born, Fran Clark’s first novel, Holding Paradise, was published by Indigo Dreams Publishing in April 2014. During that year, Fran passed her Creative Writing MA with Distinction at Brunel University. Her second novel, When Skies Are Grey, was shorlisted for the SI Leeds Literary Prize 2016.
Fran has been a ghost writer of women’s fiction and has written numerous articles for online magazines.
In 2024 her 4 book series, Island Secrets, will be published.
Under the pseudonym, Rosa Temple, Fran signed a three book deal with HQ Digital an imprint of Harper Collins. Also The Slow Lane Walkers Club published by Simon & Schuster UK.
Fran has worked as a professional singer and song-writer. Still writing and recording music, Fran teachers vocals and runs a contemporary choir.
Now living in the Herefordshire countryside, Fran experiments with vegan cookery, relaxes with yoga and creates stories in the peace and tranquillity of her country cottage.
Fran has been a ghost writer of women’s fiction and has written numerous articles for online magazines.
In 2024 her 4 book series, Island Secrets, will be published.
Under the pseudonym, Rosa Temple, Fran signed a three book deal with HQ Digital an imprint of Harper Collins. Also The Slow Lane Walkers Club published by Simon & Schuster UK.
Fran has worked as a professional singer and song-writer. Still writing and recording music, Fran teachers vocals and runs a contemporary choir.
Now living in the Herefordshire countryside, Fran experiments with vegan cookery, relaxes with yoga and creates stories in the peace and tranquillity of her country cottage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 18, 2025
I loved this book! I was fortunate to receive an advance copy in exchange for a honest review of this book. Alternating between the viewpoints of Essie and LeJeune, this book tells the story of a wife looking for her husband. With very little to go on, Essie slowly pieces together the story of who her husband is, but the key question is will she find him? Well-written in developing the characters with Twists and turns to draw you and keep you guessing on what will happen next. You’ll be drawn in to keep reading — spoiler alert — if you didn’t already see this is only Book One!
May 24, 2026
A heart wrenching story written with class and grace. Full of colourful messy characters coming together for their shared love of one man. Beautiful.
February 22, 2026
Nice plot, but slow burn.
October 21, 2025
Fran Clark is a new author to me and I am delighted to have discovered her through the book tour.
Wherever You Will Go is an utterly spellbinding portrayal of the quest of central character Essie to determine the whereabouts of her husband LeJeune after he leaves the Caribbean island of Dominica on the Empire Windrush destined for London. Having promised to send for her once he is established, instead she receives only one letter and nothing further.
Resolute, consumed by her love for him and with a financial helping hand from her father, Essie makes the long journey to Britain to find him.
What unfolds is a dual timeline story of life in London in the 1940s, through the eyes of both characters. LeJeune’s story is set on his first visit during WWII where he enlisted to serve for Britain, whilst Essie’s is told from her perspective at the end of the war when she arrives on her quest to locate her husband.
I absolutely adored Essie’s character. Even in the face of adversity and despite being advised by others to forget about her husband and move on, she knows in her heart, she has to do everything she can to find him. I loved how her naivety was so delicately mixed with an inner strength that grew as the plot developed.
Similarly, the author’s depiction of Britain in that time, from race relations and prejudice, to the impact of the German bombings and those lost in the war, is atmospheric and vividly portrayed. There is also plenty of reference to the Caribbean culture and I enjoyed seeing how Essie reacted when faced with new things that were unknown to her in her homeland.
I’m so glad that this is the first book in a series and having not wanted to put this one down, I am already eagerly anticipating reading the next one!
With thanks to the author and Zoe at Zooloo’s Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
Wherever You Will Go is an utterly spellbinding portrayal of the quest of central character Essie to determine the whereabouts of her husband LeJeune after he leaves the Caribbean island of Dominica on the Empire Windrush destined for London. Having promised to send for her once he is established, instead she receives only one letter and nothing further.
Resolute, consumed by her love for him and with a financial helping hand from her father, Essie makes the long journey to Britain to find him.
What unfolds is a dual timeline story of life in London in the 1940s, through the eyes of both characters. LeJeune’s story is set on his first visit during WWII where he enlisted to serve for Britain, whilst Essie’s is told from her perspective at the end of the war when she arrives on her quest to locate her husband.
I absolutely adored Essie’s character. Even in the face of adversity and despite being advised by others to forget about her husband and move on, she knows in her heart, she has to do everything she can to find him. I loved how her naivety was so delicately mixed with an inner strength that grew as the plot developed.
Similarly, the author’s depiction of Britain in that time, from race relations and prejudice, to the impact of the German bombings and those lost in the war, is atmospheric and vividly portrayed. There is also plenty of reference to the Caribbean culture and I enjoyed seeing how Essie reacted when faced with new things that were unknown to her in her homeland.
I’m so glad that this is the first book in a series and having not wanted to put this one down, I am already eagerly anticipating reading the next one!
With thanks to the author and Zoe at Zooloo’s Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
June 17, 2025
This is the first book in a new series by Fran - The Hope Series.
It's only the second book that I've read by this author, but I really enjoyed Lovers, which I read back in 2023, so was looking forward to reading this new release.
This was a moving story which really had my emotions swinging from happiness, fear, dread and hope!
I'm not even really sure how much I can tell without giving too much of the story away....which I hate doing.
We follow the story of newlyweds LeJeune and Essie whose start to their marriage was certainly an unusual one.
A day after their wedding day, LeJeune boards a boat from Dominica back to the UK to start a new life and when settled, he would send for Essie to join him there.
When Essie doesn't have word from him, she heads off on her own journey to discover what happened to her husband.
I loved how we followed both of the storylines in parallel.
LeJeune's story heads way back to his first trip to the UK and here we learn all about him as a person and the events that led up to the wedding and beyond.
LeJeune's story was so heartbreaking! A lovely man who was there to fight the war for Britain, yet prejudice and societal views just wouldn't allow him the life that he deserved.
Essie, I honestly felt so sorry for, as she really had nothing to go on and for her to head off on this journey was just so brave. I loved how determined and loyal she was throughout and I have so much hope for how her journey might continue through the series.
This was a setting that I don't read much around - set during the wartime - but seeing things from a home perspective and especially that of the people heading to us from the Windrush, was fascinating.
Beautifully written to keep me in tenterhooks from start to finish, I honestly can't wait to read the next book in this series.
It's only the second book that I've read by this author, but I really enjoyed Lovers, which I read back in 2023, so was looking forward to reading this new release.
This was a moving story which really had my emotions swinging from happiness, fear, dread and hope!
I'm not even really sure how much I can tell without giving too much of the story away....which I hate doing.
We follow the story of newlyweds LeJeune and Essie whose start to their marriage was certainly an unusual one.
A day after their wedding day, LeJeune boards a boat from Dominica back to the UK to start a new life and when settled, he would send for Essie to join him there.
When Essie doesn't have word from him, she heads off on her own journey to discover what happened to her husband.
I loved how we followed both of the storylines in parallel.
LeJeune's story heads way back to his first trip to the UK and here we learn all about him as a person and the events that led up to the wedding and beyond.
LeJeune's story was so heartbreaking! A lovely man who was there to fight the war for Britain, yet prejudice and societal views just wouldn't allow him the life that he deserved.
Essie, I honestly felt so sorry for, as she really had nothing to go on and for her to head off on this journey was just so brave. I loved how determined and loyal she was throughout and I have so much hope for how her journey might continue through the series.
This was a setting that I don't read much around - set during the wartime - but seeing things from a home perspective and especially that of the people heading to us from the Windrush, was fascinating.
Beautifully written to keep me in tenterhooks from start to finish, I honestly can't wait to read the next book in this series.
March 21, 2026
I was honoured to be an early listener of this fantastic audiobook. This is a new to me author but after this audiobook I will definitely be reading/listening to more of her books
The story sees a young woman heading from her home in the Caribbean to England in search of her husband. He travelled to England the day after their wedding to find a job and a home, with plans to then call for her when he was settled. But after an initial letter to say he had arrived she heard nothing
Whilst family and friends are telling her that he has done the dirty and abandoned her, her heart is telling her different. But whatever has happened, Essie just needs to know
This is historic fiction set in the 1940s just after the war. It is a beautiful and captivating story and I fell in love with the main character instantly.
As an audiobook, I found the narrators tone just perfect and so nice to listen to. I loved the accents too. This helped to create a very immersive experience.
The story sees a young woman heading from her home in the Caribbean to England in search of her husband. He travelled to England the day after their wedding to find a job and a home, with plans to then call for her when he was settled. But after an initial letter to say he had arrived she heard nothing
Whilst family and friends are telling her that he has done the dirty and abandoned her, her heart is telling her different. But whatever has happened, Essie just needs to know
This is historic fiction set in the 1940s just after the war. It is a beautiful and captivating story and I fell in love with the main character instantly.
As an audiobook, I found the narrators tone just perfect and so nice to listen to. I loved the accents too. This helped to create a very immersive experience.
August 7, 2025
This is an amazing book of love, loyalty, and never letting hope go. Essie, a young just married woman from the Caribbean, travels to London to look for her husband after he disappears, having sent one letter months ago to tell her that he arrived in London.
What happens when she arrives is a tale of soul searching, personal growth, faith, love, and heartache.
Told in two not so distant timelines and with two protagonists, we learn the history and story of Essie and LeJeunne, their lives, and the circumstances that made them one as a couple.
With exquisite prose and believable characters and plot, this book will stay with you long after you read the last word on the last page.
What happens when she arrives is a tale of soul searching, personal growth, faith, love, and heartache.
Told in two not so distant timelines and with two protagonists, we learn the history and story of Essie and LeJeunne, their lives, and the circumstances that made them one as a couple.
With exquisite prose and believable characters and plot, this book will stay with you long after you read the last word on the last page.
June 12, 2025
3.75 stars
This historical romance book is the first in the Hope Series. It was set in the 1980s and followed the lives of two individuals - LeJeune and Essie. This post World War 2 era, where LeJeune, a veteran, returns to his island home of Dominica and marries Essie, only to return to England in search of a better life for them. But he doesn't return, so Essie sets out to find out what happened to her husband.
This story started out slow for me. However, I enjoyed the storytelling and the development of the characters. I loved the incorporation of the Caribbean heritage and the kindness of strangers along the way. Thank you for gifting me this ARC, Fran Clarke 😊.
This historical romance book is the first in the Hope Series. It was set in the 1980s and followed the lives of two individuals - LeJeune and Essie. This post World War 2 era, where LeJeune, a veteran, returns to his island home of Dominica and marries Essie, only to return to England in search of a better life for them. But he doesn't return, so Essie sets out to find out what happened to her husband.
This story started out slow for me. However, I enjoyed the storytelling and the development of the characters. I loved the incorporation of the Caribbean heritage and the kindness of strangers along the way. Thank you for gifting me this ARC, Fran Clarke 😊.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2025
This is a complicated love story that takes place primarily in England after World War Two. LeJeune or Johnas he is known, returns to Dominica after the war and marries Essie. Then he returns to England telling her he will send for her. After waiting for months and no longer hearing from John, Essie sets off to England to find out what happened. There is a lot in this Historical romance. There are the war and post war race relations. There is Lizzie who John was with during the war before her husband returned and she was white. John and Essie are Black. This story will tug at your heart and give you an intense look at the racial injustices of that time. An excellent read.
June 17, 2025
A terrific start to a new series - already looking forward to more!
Esperanza - known to all as Essie - is getting married. She has met the man of her dreams, LeJeune, who served as a soldier during World War II when he was stationed in England and he insists there is a future for them there. After the wedding, he will head there, get a job and a home and send for her. Only the weeks march on and she hasn't heard from him so she decides to go to London and find him. Their love is perfect, after all - there's just been a bit of a hiccup . . .
This is a beautifully written novel; Essie's excitement is palpable and events of the 1940's are very cleverly woven into the story adding even more authenticity. There can't be a single reader who doesn't feel emotional sympathy for Essie's situation and I couldn't wait to find out where the story was going. A complete story with no loose ends, and thoroughly entertaining. One I'm happy to recommend and give all five stars. 5*.
Esperanza - known to all as Essie - is getting married. She has met the man of her dreams, LeJeune, who served as a soldier during World War II when he was stationed in England and he insists there is a future for them there. After the wedding, he will head there, get a job and a home and send for her. Only the weeks march on and she hasn't heard from him so she decides to go to London and find him. Their love is perfect, after all - there's just been a bit of a hiccup . . .
This is a beautifully written novel; Essie's excitement is palpable and events of the 1940's are very cleverly woven into the story adding even more authenticity. There can't be a single reader who doesn't feel emotional sympathy for Essie's situation and I couldn't wait to find out where the story was going. A complete story with no loose ends, and thoroughly entertaining. One I'm happy to recommend and give all five stars. 5*.
July 17, 2025
When Essie's husband leaves for England on the Windrush, promising to bring her over when he is settled, she is dismayed when only one letter arrives. Determined to find out what has happened to him, Essie makes the same journey, arriving in post WW2 England. with the help of a cousin and some newly made friends, the story of her husband's life as a soldier unfolds and another woman appears on the scene. The author paints a fascinating picture of post WW2 England with its racism, austerity and struggles for ordinary people.
December 13, 2025
Wherever You Will Go took me on an emotional journey that felt both intimate and far-reaching. A tale of love, loss, and the courage to keep going when life tears everything apart.
From the very first chapter it felt so real. I had a deep empathy for Essie. Her loneliness, her fear, and that desperate hope clinging to every thought. Fran Clark captures emotion with such tenderness that it seeps into your heart before you even realise it. The writing is lyrical and evocative, beautifully painting warm scenes of the Caribbean against the chill of post-war London. You can almost feel the shift in light and tone as Essie’s life changes course.
This isn’t a story that rushes. It unfolds slowly, thoughtfully, giving each moment the space it deserves. I loved that about it — the way the author allows you to sit with Essie’s uncertainty and share in her discoveries. It’s about far more than finding a missing husband; it’s about finding yourself when your world no longer makes sense.
What lingered with me most was Essie’s resilience. She’s the kind of heroine who stays with you — vulnerable, yet quietly fierce. Her determination and dignity, even in her darkest moments, made this story shine.
Fran Clark has written a moving, beautifully layered novel that reminds us how strength can be born from heartbreak, and how the search for truth can lead us home in unexpected ways.
From the very first chapter it felt so real. I had a deep empathy for Essie. Her loneliness, her fear, and that desperate hope clinging to every thought. Fran Clark captures emotion with such tenderness that it seeps into your heart before you even realise it. The writing is lyrical and evocative, beautifully painting warm scenes of the Caribbean against the chill of post-war London. You can almost feel the shift in light and tone as Essie’s life changes course.
This isn’t a story that rushes. It unfolds slowly, thoughtfully, giving each moment the space it deserves. I loved that about it — the way the author allows you to sit with Essie’s uncertainty and share in her discoveries. It’s about far more than finding a missing husband; it’s about finding yourself when your world no longer makes sense.
What lingered with me most was Essie’s resilience. She’s the kind of heroine who stays with you — vulnerable, yet quietly fierce. Her determination and dignity, even in her darkest moments, made this story shine.
Fran Clark has written a moving, beautifully layered novel that reminds us how strength can be born from heartbreak, and how the search for truth can lead us home in unexpected ways.
June 20, 2025
I just finished Wherever You Go and OMG… the ending completely threw me off 😭😭 I thought I knew where it was going and then bam! Plot twist I did NOT see coming!
I legit cried like a baby… but in the best way. It was so emotional, so raw, and honestly… so beautiful.
Fran Clark, you broke my heart and somehow healed it in the same breath.
This story will stay with me for a long, long time. 😍📖❤️
I legit cried like a baby… but in the best way. It was so emotional, so raw, and honestly… so beautiful.
Fran Clark, you broke my heart and somehow healed it in the same breath.
This story will stay with me for a long, long time. 😍📖❤️
June 17, 2025
Wherever You Will Go is a story filled with emotion, mystery, and intrigue. This sweeping novel begins in 1948, on the island of Dominica, where 19-year-old Esperanza (Essie) marries LeJeune Francis, a strong and handsome man ten years her senior, with clear grey eyes and skin so pale that many mistake him for white.
Young, shy and naïve, Essie waves goodbye to her new husband as he boards the boat for London. This, he tells her, is where their future lies. He already has a job lined up and just needs to find them a place to live before sending her a ticket to join him in their motherland.
But things do not go according to plan.
One of the last words LeJeune says to her as he leaves is: ‘This is forever, you and me. This is going to be my greatest adventure.’
Two weeks later, Essie receives a letter from LeJeune telling her he has arrived. But then there is silence. After waiting three months, Essie decides to go to London and find out just what has happened to her new husband. Is he hurt? Is he sick? Did his new job fall through, and was he too proud to admit that he was now short of money? Or, is it what the other islanders believe - that LeJeune has changed his mind and fallen in love with someone else?
Essie faces her fears and boards the ship to England alone. Once in London, she moves in with her mother’s cousin, Myrtle Young. Now, her search for LeJeune Francis begins.
Wherever You Will Go is told from the point of view of both Essie and LeJeune.
From following Essie in 1948's London, the reader is taken back to 1943 when Lejeune arrives in London to answer the call from his motherland, helping with the war effort. He meets young soldiers from Jamaica, also answering the call. From here, we are taken into the life of a young Dominican soldier fighting for England during the Second World War.
Yet, the reason for his disappearance remains a mystery until Essie finally pieces together his life in England during the war.
Each chapter gives a clue as to what happened. Each chapter gives the reader a deeper understanding of Essie and LeJeune.
I loved this book. The mystery of LeJeune Francis’ whereabouts meant that I couldn’t wait to get back to the book and find out more. If you enjoy emotionally driven romantic mysteries, then Wherever You Will Go is for you.
Young, shy and naïve, Essie waves goodbye to her new husband as he boards the boat for London. This, he tells her, is where their future lies. He already has a job lined up and just needs to find them a place to live before sending her a ticket to join him in their motherland.
But things do not go according to plan.
One of the last words LeJeune says to her as he leaves is: ‘This is forever, you and me. This is going to be my greatest adventure.’
Two weeks later, Essie receives a letter from LeJeune telling her he has arrived. But then there is silence. After waiting three months, Essie decides to go to London and find out just what has happened to her new husband. Is he hurt? Is he sick? Did his new job fall through, and was he too proud to admit that he was now short of money? Or, is it what the other islanders believe - that LeJeune has changed his mind and fallen in love with someone else?
Essie faces her fears and boards the ship to England alone. Once in London, she moves in with her mother’s cousin, Myrtle Young. Now, her search for LeJeune Francis begins.
Wherever You Will Go is told from the point of view of both Essie and LeJeune.
From following Essie in 1948's London, the reader is taken back to 1943 when Lejeune arrives in London to answer the call from his motherland, helping with the war effort. He meets young soldiers from Jamaica, also answering the call. From here, we are taken into the life of a young Dominican soldier fighting for England during the Second World War.
Yet, the reason for his disappearance remains a mystery until Essie finally pieces together his life in England during the war.
Each chapter gives a clue as to what happened. Each chapter gives the reader a deeper understanding of Essie and LeJeune.
I loved this book. The mystery of LeJeune Francis’ whereabouts meant that I couldn’t wait to get back to the book and find out more. If you enjoy emotionally driven romantic mysteries, then Wherever You Will Go is for you.
May 16, 2026
1948. In a post-WWII world, the world is continuing to rebuild. We first meet Essie in Dominica. She is newly married and is preparing after her wedding to leave with her husband, LeJeune, for London. As part of the plan, he leaves ahead of her for London to set up a new life for them both and begin working at his new job. She only receives one letter from him when he arrives. Then nothing.
Her instincts tell her that she must go find him in London. Setting sail for London, she arrives and fears that she will not be able to find him. The plan for her life that she had always known is now uncertain, and the man she thought she knew is someone else in London - a man with secrets and a past from his time serving in the UK during the war.
I enjoyed the dual timelines, locations, and points of view between 1944 and 1948 and thought the novel was were well-paced. There was a build in the story with anticipation of the secrets that would unfold. The dual timelines are a great way to learn about the protagonists’ histories and journeys. Even the distance between Essie and LeJeune and their feelings, which spans on ocean mirrors the anticipation that Essie feels in trying to find her husband as quickly as she can.
We see Essie’s growth and journey and how she discovers more of her identity and over time what she wants in life.
Her story is not only one of searching for her husband, but also searching for who she wants to be. Being a young wife, her life in a way has been mapped out for her. Decisions and timelines already determined. In the midst of heartbreak and sorrow, however, hope and resilience begin to emerge as a part of Essie’s story.
Fran Clark delivers an excellent narration of the audiobook! I look forward to the next book in the series!
Thank you to Fran Clark and Novel Tours for the opportunity to be part of the tour and to read and review Wherever You Will Go!
© 2026 Cait’s Reading Nook. All rights reserved. I was provided a copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Her instincts tell her that she must go find him in London. Setting sail for London, she arrives and fears that she will not be able to find him. The plan for her life that she had always known is now uncertain, and the man she thought she knew is someone else in London - a man with secrets and a past from his time serving in the UK during the war.
I enjoyed the dual timelines, locations, and points of view between 1944 and 1948 and thought the novel was were well-paced. There was a build in the story with anticipation of the secrets that would unfold. The dual timelines are a great way to learn about the protagonists’ histories and journeys. Even the distance between Essie and LeJeune and their feelings, which spans on ocean mirrors the anticipation that Essie feels in trying to find her husband as quickly as she can.
We see Essie’s growth and journey and how she discovers more of her identity and over time what she wants in life.
Her story is not only one of searching for her husband, but also searching for who she wants to be. Being a young wife, her life in a way has been mapped out for her. Decisions and timelines already determined. In the midst of heartbreak and sorrow, however, hope and resilience begin to emerge as a part of Essie’s story.
Fran Clark delivers an excellent narration of the audiobook! I look forward to the next book in the series!
Thank you to Fran Clark and Novel Tours for the opportunity to be part of the tour and to read and review Wherever You Will Go!
© 2026 Cait’s Reading Nook. All rights reserved. I was provided a copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
June 17, 2025
Fran Clark’s Wherever You Will Go swept me up in its emotional tide from the very first page. It's not just a historical love story—it's a deeply human journey of courage, heartbreak, and hope. Set in the years after WWII, the novel follows young Essie, a new bride from Dominica who dares to cross an ocean for love when her husband, LeJeune, disappears into the silence of post-war London. What begins as a romantic promise quickly turns into a mystery, and Essie's determination to uncover the truth is nothing short of inspiring.
Clark masterfully shifts between Essie’s brave steps through unfamiliar London streets and LeJeune’s own path from wartime soldier to man caught in the crosshairs of systemic injustice. Their voices are distinct and rich with longing, and as each chapter reveals another layer, I found myself aching for them both. The blend of historical detail and personal storytelling is seamless—never heavy, always meaningful. This novel does more than tell a story; it makes you feel it. I laughed, I held my breath, and more than once, I teared up. If you’re drawn to emotionally driven stories with heart, history, and mystery, this book is a must-read. I’m already eager for what’s next in The Hope Series
Clark masterfully shifts between Essie’s brave steps through unfamiliar London streets and LeJeune’s own path from wartime soldier to man caught in the crosshairs of systemic injustice. Their voices are distinct and rich with longing, and as each chapter reveals another layer, I found myself aching for them both. The blend of historical detail and personal storytelling is seamless—never heavy, always meaningful. This novel does more than tell a story; it makes you feel it. I laughed, I held my breath, and more than once, I teared up. If you’re drawn to emotionally driven stories with heart, history, and mystery, this book is a must-read. I’m already eager for what’s next in The Hope Series
April 12, 2026
This was such a powerful and emotional read from start to finish. The story pulls you in right away with Essie’s journey, and it never really lets go. There’s this constant sense of mystery around what happened to her husband, and that keeps the tension going in a really engaging way.
What stood out most for me was how layered everything felt. As Essie starts uncovering pieces of her husband’s past in post-war London, you really feel her heartbreak, confusion, and determination all at once. The people she meets each add another piece to the puzzle, and nothing is quite what it seems at first.
I also loved how the story balanced romance with deeper emotional themes like loyalty, identity, and survival. It’s not just about love, it’s about what happens when everything you believe gets questioned.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration was fantastic. The narrator did an amazing job bringing each character to life with distinct voices and accents. At times it honestly felt like a full cast performance, which made it even more immersive.
Overall, this was a gripping and emotional story that kept me completely hooked. I finished it wanting more, and I really hope there’s a continuation to Essie’s journey because her story feels far from over.
What stood out most for me was how layered everything felt. As Essie starts uncovering pieces of her husband’s past in post-war London, you really feel her heartbreak, confusion, and determination all at once. The people she meets each add another piece to the puzzle, and nothing is quite what it seems at first.
I also loved how the story balanced romance with deeper emotional themes like loyalty, identity, and survival. It’s not just about love, it’s about what happens when everything you believe gets questioned.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration was fantastic. The narrator did an amazing job bringing each character to life with distinct voices and accents. At times it honestly felt like a full cast performance, which made it even more immersive.
Overall, this was a gripping and emotional story that kept me completely hooked. I finished it wanting more, and I really hope there’s a continuation to Essie’s journey because her story feels far from over.
May 5, 2026
The main character of the story is Essie, a young woman from Dominica who embarks on a journey to reunite with her husband LeJeune, who disappears shortly after their wedding. The setting England in the 1940s.
I’ve read in an audiobook format, and the narrator was the author herself. Her human voice adds authenticity and emotional weight to the story. It made it easy to get lost between London and Dominica following Essie and LeJeune in a dual timeline.
Essie, from Dominica to London, comes across culture shock, but her resilience navigates her in a world filled with both radical prejudice and unexpected moments of kindness. As for LeJeune, his fate has been shaped by the harsh reality of post-WWII London and the Windrush generation.
In the story, Essie spends her journey to London tracing LeJeune’s steps through Stepney, meeting people from LeJeune’s past. She meets an army friend and a woman who holds the key to LeJeune's existence and adds the final pieces of the puzzle together for his fate. Essie’s journey to trace LeJeune’s steps leads to a heartbreaking series of answers, leaving her with bittersweet feelings. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Essie’s story in The Hope Series.
I’ve read in an audiobook format, and the narrator was the author herself. Her human voice adds authenticity and emotional weight to the story. It made it easy to get lost between London and Dominica following Essie and LeJeune in a dual timeline.
Essie, from Dominica to London, comes across culture shock, but her resilience navigates her in a world filled with both radical prejudice and unexpected moments of kindness. As for LeJeune, his fate has been shaped by the harsh reality of post-WWII London and the Windrush generation.
In the story, Essie spends her journey to London tracing LeJeune’s steps through Stepney, meeting people from LeJeune’s past. She meets an army friend and a woman who holds the key to LeJeune's existence and adds the final pieces of the puzzle together for his fate. Essie’s journey to trace LeJeune’s steps leads to a heartbreaking series of answers, leaving her with bittersweet feelings. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Essie’s story in The Hope Series.
November 1, 2025
"Ọmọ ènì kú, ó sàn ju ọmọ ènì sọnù lọ". (Yoruba Proverb)
Translation: A dead person is better accounted for than a missing person.
Newlywed Essie hasn’t heard from her husband, LeJeune, since he left their Dominican Island for the shores of Britain on the HMS Empire Windrush. She arrives in London to look for him triggering a journey of self discovery, secrets, racism and memories.
Firstly, Fran Clark is a fantastic writer. When I started this I had no idea or direction the story was handed. She has a way with words, with the unexpected twists and turns and the mystery was sustained from the onset.
Told from the points of view of both LeJeune and Essie and in parallel timelines, there is the feeling of hope, loyalty, dread, fear, hopelessness and despair.
It was a bit hard reading about the war and the roles of black people in a war and world that had nothing to do with them and wanted nothing to do with them.
The blatant racism, hypocrisy and disrespect were not glossed over and the author captured each emotion succinctly.
I love Essie’s spirit/ resilience and how she kept faith and composure till the end. This is an excellent read that will stay with me.
Translation: A dead person is better accounted for than a missing person.
Newlywed Essie hasn’t heard from her husband, LeJeune, since he left their Dominican Island for the shores of Britain on the HMS Empire Windrush. She arrives in London to look for him triggering a journey of self discovery, secrets, racism and memories.
Firstly, Fran Clark is a fantastic writer. When I started this I had no idea or direction the story was handed. She has a way with words, with the unexpected twists and turns and the mystery was sustained from the onset.
Told from the points of view of both LeJeune and Essie and in parallel timelines, there is the feeling of hope, loyalty, dread, fear, hopelessness and despair.
It was a bit hard reading about the war and the roles of black people in a war and world that had nothing to do with them and wanted nothing to do with them.
The blatant racism, hypocrisy and disrespect were not glossed over and the author captured each emotion succinctly.
I love Essie’s spirit/ resilience and how she kept faith and composure till the end. This is an excellent read that will stay with me.
October 13, 2025
I was introduced to Fran Clark via Zooloo’s Book Tours and I have to say they have become one of my favourite authors. Their characters are always so complex, well written and most importantly feel incredibly real. If you are like me I find it so much easier to invest in a story when the characters are believable, lifelike and easy to empathise with. Clark does all these things and more in her novels and best of all pairs them with intriguing plots that hold you from the start.
Wherever You Will Go is an amazing start to a new series. It had me going through the motions of hope to dread, heartbreak to determination and everything in between. Filled with shocks and twists along the way the time period. Capturing the sentiments and feelings of a post-war London.
I am so excited to see how this series progresses in the future and can’t wait for the next installment. If you enjoy gripping historical fiction this is one you cannot afford to miss.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
Wherever You Will Go is an amazing start to a new series. It had me going through the motions of hope to dread, heartbreak to determination and everything in between. Filled with shocks and twists along the way the time period. Capturing the sentiments and feelings of a post-war London.
I am so excited to see how this series progresses in the future and can’t wait for the next installment. If you enjoy gripping historical fiction this is one you cannot afford to miss.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
December 28, 2025
I had previously read a related short story by Clark and already trusted her storytelling. This novel confirmed that instinct. The story follows a couple each reaching for the love they believe is meant for them, even as those pursuits are in parallel and further apart.
The story timelines are disparate and converge in a clear manner--such fantastic writing.
I found myself especially invested in Essie, walking in her wake as she traces her husband’s steps while he chases another woman. Both characters feel propelled by love’s gravity, yet that same force never draws them back to each other. That tension is where the novel truly shines.
Clark’s writing is so assured and emotionally precise that I couldn’t put the book down. I needed to know where each pursuit would lead, and the ending delivers in a way that... oh, tsk. Long after finishing, I’m still turning the fates of these characters over in my mind.
I received a free copy of Wherever You Will Go by Fran Clark from StoryOrigin in exchange for an honest review. I was so moved, I decided to purchase the paperback.
The story timelines are disparate and converge in a clear manner--such fantastic writing.
I found myself especially invested in Essie, walking in her wake as she traces her husband’s steps while he chases another woman. Both characters feel propelled by love’s gravity, yet that same force never draws them back to each other. That tension is where the novel truly shines.
Clark’s writing is so assured and emotionally precise that I couldn’t put the book down. I needed to know where each pursuit would lead, and the ending delivers in a way that... oh, tsk. Long after finishing, I’m still turning the fates of these characters over in my mind.
I received a free copy of Wherever You Will Go by Fran Clark from StoryOrigin in exchange for an honest review. I was so moved, I decided to purchase the paperback.
March 30, 2026
Fran Clark's Wherever You Will Go is a quietly powerful opener to her Hope Series — part historical saga, part mystery, and entirely the kind of story that lingers long after the last page.
The novel follows nineteen-year-old Essie, who marries LeJeune Francis on the island of Dominica before he boards a boat for post-war London. When he vanishes without explanation, she follows him across the ocean, beginning a search that will upend everything she thought she knew about love and loyalty. Rooted in the history of the Windrush generation, the novel honours the journeys of Caribbean people who made the crossing to Britain with warmth and authenticity.
Essie is a heroine worth rooting for — fearful at first, but quietly formidable as the truth closes in around her. The book holds a great deal of hope as she goes through her journey of self-discovery and finds she is stronger than she ever imagined.
Lovingly narrated and richly atmospheric, this historical fiction novel is a gem!
Well done Fran, I am already looking forward to Book 2!
The novel follows nineteen-year-old Essie, who marries LeJeune Francis on the island of Dominica before he boards a boat for post-war London. When he vanishes without explanation, she follows him across the ocean, beginning a search that will upend everything she thought she knew about love and loyalty. Rooted in the history of the Windrush generation, the novel honours the journeys of Caribbean people who made the crossing to Britain with warmth and authenticity.
Essie is a heroine worth rooting for — fearful at first, but quietly formidable as the truth closes in around her. The book holds a great deal of hope as she goes through her journey of self-discovery and finds she is stronger than she ever imagined.
Lovingly narrated and richly atmospheric, this historical fiction novel is a gem!
Well done Fran, I am already looking forward to Book 2!
October 17, 2025
This was the perfect book to read this October as the nation marks Black History Month.
I thoroughly enjoyed this insight into post-war London when over one thousand people arrived in Britain from the West Indies on the Empire Windrush in 1948, hoping for a better way of life; to contribute to the rebuilding and to help make Britain ‘Great’ again. I couldn’t help but smile at the culture shock aspects brilliantly portrayed in the story - the bland British foods (mash and tinned peas!), the cold climate and the Cockney slang.
Wherever You Will Go is a beautifully written story of love, longing for a missing husband, a journey across the ocean, finding identity in a new country, a mysterious disappearance and a painful search for hidden truths.
Whilst there were moments early on in the story that I thought Essie was perhaps a little naive, I grew to admire her strength, resilience, hope and determination to find answers. Yes, the ending is an emotional one but I devoured this book and really look forward to seeing what Essie will do next.
I thoroughly enjoyed this insight into post-war London when over one thousand people arrived in Britain from the West Indies on the Empire Windrush in 1948, hoping for a better way of life; to contribute to the rebuilding and to help make Britain ‘Great’ again. I couldn’t help but smile at the culture shock aspects brilliantly portrayed in the story - the bland British foods (mash and tinned peas!), the cold climate and the Cockney slang.
Wherever You Will Go is a beautifully written story of love, longing for a missing husband, a journey across the ocean, finding identity in a new country, a mysterious disappearance and a painful search for hidden truths.
Whilst there were moments early on in the story that I thought Essie was perhaps a little naive, I grew to admire her strength, resilience, hope and determination to find answers. Yes, the ending is an emotional one but I devoured this book and really look forward to seeing what Essie will do next.
May 1, 2026
5.0 - This beautiful story was a powerful and emotional read from the beginning of Essie’s journey right up to the end. I was pulled in right away and it never really let me go. There is a constant sense of mystery surrounding what happened to her husband in London during and after the war. The tension keeps the reader engaged all the way through. As Essie starts uncovering pieces of her husband’s past, you can relate to her heartbreak, confusion, and determination all at once. Each person she meets adds another layer and piece to the puzzle. Nothing is quite what it seems.The story balances romance with themes like loyalty, identity, and survival. I listened to the audiobook which was narrated by the author. It was fantastic! She brought each character to life and her reading made me want to not stop listening. I finished it wanting more. I hope the series continues Essie’s story, because it seems we need to know more about her story.
I received a free audiobook via Story Origin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2026
Fran did a fantastic job sucking me into the story right away. She narrates this audiobook and does an amazing job. She did a great job differentiating between the characters and telling the story she wrote.
The lengths Essie went through to find her husband was something else. In a time when travel wasn’t as simple as it is now, she follows her new husband to England when she doesn’t hear from him for far too long. Luckily she finds people there who are willing to help her put the pieces together and help her get answers.
I felt for Essie. I couldn’t imagine what it was like to get married and then have her husband take off on her and never hear from him. She has every right to get answers and I loved her determination. She’s such a young woman but doesn’t let anyone stop her.
I can’t wait to read the next one in the series (and it releases on my birthday!)
Thank you Novel Tours for my copy of this book.
The lengths Essie went through to find her husband was something else. In a time when travel wasn’t as simple as it is now, she follows her new husband to England when she doesn’t hear from him for far too long. Luckily she finds people there who are willing to help her put the pieces together and help her get answers.
I felt for Essie. I couldn’t imagine what it was like to get married and then have her husband take off on her and never hear from him. She has every right to get answers and I loved her determination. She’s such a young woman but doesn’t let anyone stop her.
I can’t wait to read the next one in the series (and it releases on my birthday!)
Thank you Novel Tours for my copy of this book.
May 14, 2026
Thank you to Novel Tours and the author, Fran Clark for the gifted audiobook.
I absolutely love that the author was the narrator! It wasn’t the typical voice/tone I listen to but the accent/dialect was absolutely perfect for the story. Fran Clark’s connection to the Caribbean and London are evident and enjoyable. This was a fantastic historical fiction novel with a strong heroine and an emotional tale of love and loss and self discovery. The connection to the war and immigration are told in such a vivid way that I was sucked into the story and found myself aching along with Essie. It was such an immersive experience to listen to. It felt authentic and atmospheric. 3.5 rounded up - I felt like some parts were repetitive and some things I wanted to know more about - the ending was not expected but perhaps book 2 will help me!
I absolutely love that the author was the narrator! It wasn’t the typical voice/tone I listen to but the accent/dialect was absolutely perfect for the story. Fran Clark’s connection to the Caribbean and London are evident and enjoyable. This was a fantastic historical fiction novel with a strong heroine and an emotional tale of love and loss and self discovery. The connection to the war and immigration are told in such a vivid way that I was sucked into the story and found myself aching along with Essie. It was such an immersive experience to listen to. It felt authentic and atmospheric. 3.5 rounded up - I felt like some parts were repetitive and some things I wanted to know more about - the ending was not expected but perhaps book 2 will help me!
December 27, 2025
It’s 1948, and Essie has just married her handsome husband LeJeune on their home island of Dominica. LeJeune sets off for London the very next day, promising to send for Essie as soon as he finds them somewhere to live. Weeks later she gets word that he arrived in London, but then…nothing. Essie takes the decision to search for him.
Arriving in London herself, Essie has to piece together the puzzle that LeJeune left in his wake. The book flashes back to 1944, when LeJeune served in the army during WW2, and in his off time, was part of the local community, where he had friends and fell in love. Later, Essie begins her search with LeJeune’s friend Eugene.
I really enjoyed this book, and I’m glad it’s the first in a series. I really liked Essie, and wanted everything to work out for her. The story kept me engaged, and I really felt Essie and LeJeune’s home-sickness, and the racism and prejudice they experienced was palpable. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series.
Arriving in London herself, Essie has to piece together the puzzle that LeJeune left in his wake. The book flashes back to 1944, when LeJeune served in the army during WW2, and in his off time, was part of the local community, where he had friends and fell in love. Later, Essie begins her search with LeJeune’s friend Eugene.
I really enjoyed this book, and I’m glad it’s the first in a series. I really liked Essie, and wanted everything to work out for her. The story kept me engaged, and I really felt Essie and LeJeune’s home-sickness, and the racism and prejudice they experienced was palpable. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series.
May 11, 2026
With very little information to go on, Essie bravely leaves her home and travels to London in search of her husband who she hasn't heard from in some time. Young but fierce, she searches for the truth, uncovering her husband's story along the way. It's in part a love story and a mystery with unexpected twists as the truth is slowly revealed. Told in dual timelines, the WWII setting is vividly painted. Essie's loyalty and determination makes for an emotional and heartbreaking read, and her fortitude in searching for her husband is admirable.
A beautiful story about hope and love, I am so glad to have listened to Essie's story. I look forward to reading the next installments in this series!
March 30, 2026
A great read
After seeing Fran promoting this book on TikTok, I had to read it, as it sounded exactly like a book that I would love. I’ve been trying to get back into reading (with 2 kids it isn’t always easy to find the time) and this was the perfect book to help me to do that. I particularly liked the way the chapters jumped between characters and years - it really kept me wanting to read on to find out what was going to happen next. I found the book well written, easy to read, with likeable characters, and I can’t wait to read the next instalment when it comes out later this year!
After seeing Fran promoting this book on TikTok, I had to read it, as it sounded exactly like a book that I would love. I’ve been trying to get back into reading (with 2 kids it isn’t always easy to find the time) and this was the perfect book to help me to do that. I particularly liked the way the chapters jumped between characters and years - it really kept me wanting to read on to find out what was going to happen next. I found the book well written, easy to read, with likeable characters, and I can’t wait to read the next instalment when it comes out later this year!
October 21, 2025
Lovely story
This is a beautifully written story about a woman who traveled far from home searching for her husband.
This is not a quick moving story. There are not explosive plot points. It is much of a slow evolution of the story. It is told in two timelines and perspectives.
Set in post world war 2 London it explores the cultural transitions from the Caribbean to England - a path many took to help rebuild London despite facing hatred and racism.
I greatly enjoyed this story and look forward to book 2 in this series.
This is a beautifully written story about a woman who traveled far from home searching for her husband.
This is not a quick moving story. There are not explosive plot points. It is much of a slow evolution of the story. It is told in two timelines and perspectives.
Set in post world war 2 London it explores the cultural transitions from the Caribbean to England - a path many took to help rebuild London despite facing hatred and racism.
I greatly enjoyed this story and look forward to book 2 in this series.
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