Courage for the Country Nurse

Diary of a Country Nurse #3

by Kate Eastham

A BRAND NEW heartwarming instalment in Kate Eastham's wonderfully warm-hearted 1930s Diary of a Country Nurse series. perfect for fans of Call the Midwife and All Creatures Great and Small. 🏥 ‘Authentic... the mixture of nursing and farming life is both warming and true. I liked this a lot.’ Rosie Clarke, bestselling saga author. Courage. Community. And a nurse determined to protect her village.

1937 - When a diphtheria outbreak sweeps through the Lancashire countryside, district nurse Lara Flynn faces one of the hardest seasons of her career. She and the small team at Ingleside Surgery must work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable in the village and surrounding its children. With young lives hanging in the balance and tensions rising, can Lara show courage, compassion and quiet strength like never before?

But illness is not the only threat to Ingleside. A shocking discovery at the mill pond sends fear rippling through the close-knit community. As the ensuing police investigation gathers pace, the bonds of the village are tested.

Caught between her duty as a nurse and her instinct to defend those she believes are innocent, Lara begins to realise just how much this place and its people – including handsome vet, Leo Sullivan – have come to mean to her…

A warm and gripping historical saga novel about community, resilience and the power of kindness.

Praise for Kate

'A warm and satisfying story.' My Weekly

'A heartwarming and tear-inducing tale with wonderfully realistic characters.' Woman

'Very well created characters that you identify with and want to do well.' 5-star Reader Review

'Well written and absorbing...couldn't put it down!' 5-star Reader Review

'Great story with many twists and turns. Love all the characters.' 5-star Reader Review

Genres: Historical Fiction

299 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2026

Reviews

[ANNE BARNES]

Loved it can’t wait for the next one

[Jessie Hass]

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. So far, I've enjoyed every new book in the country nurse series more than the last. They're cozy and nostalgic, perfect for fans of Call the Midwife or All Things Great and Small. The budding romance in the series gets sweeter with each read. I can't wait to read the next one!.

[Angela Brown]

This is the 3rd book in the series and while it could be read as a stand-alone one gets much more context and will understand the characters better if the whole series is read.

And it is worthwhile reading them all.
Again we meet Lara and Marion - the district nurses, Drs Bingham and Angus Fitzwilliam the vet Leo and all the characters and families in the close knit village. We must not forget the redoubtable Mrs Hewitt always on hand with a cup of tea and freshly baked cake or scones. She does love ‘mothering’ her household. The book also highlights the effects that WW1 has even in the 1930’s.

The book deals in detail with a diphtheria outbreak which affects the children of the village and the surrounding farms. There is the demise of one character - if you’ve read the series then perhaps in some ways deserved. There is the gentle start of a relationship - if Phillipa doesn’t stick her oar in. What a self centred individual!

I did have a couple of disappointments - and maybe these will be settled in the next book which we know is coming. What happened to Vic Taylor and why and what was Patrick Kavanagh’s involvement? Did Jimmy Diamond play a role in- another thoroughly unlikeable character. I always think it’s a sign of a good writer if they can create characters that the reader just dislikes.

There was also one heart in the mouth experience for Lara - very late on in the book. This had been well researched and was very well written.

A thought provoking read in so many ways - ideal for those that love both historical fiction and medical life before the NHS - as always well written and well researched. I for one can’t wait for the next book. Hopefully we will find more about Angus and his back story and why he feels the need to go off the rails and behave so irresponsibly so often?

[C.R. Comacchio]

Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood for this advance reader copy.

In the third installment of her Diary of a Country Nurse series, Kate Eastham returns us to the cosy village of Ingleshire in rural Lancashire. All the regulars readers have been introduced to in the previous two volumes are also back, including the steadfast and thoroughly stretched district nurses, Lara and Marion, the two stalwart physicians with the Jane Austen names, Bingham and Fitzwilliam, Leo the compassionate village vet, and, of course, the imperturbable Mrs Hewitt, housekeeper and purveyor of tea and cake for any who need them.

Although this is very much an ensemble cast, Lara gets more attention here. The characters’ interactions remain much the same as always, but there are some slight if portentious changes afoot. Lara’s earlier attraction to Leo, as seen in her wholehearted assistance to him in saving the dog whom Leo had accidentally hit, obviously deepens in this book. She is much moved by the guilt and blame he takes on as they work together to save the dog.

A later incident that I can’t reveal because it would spoil the novel’s resolution also involves Lara specifically. Here Leo is able to provide the necessary thoughtfulness to comfort Lara, again pulling the young couple closer. Their intriguing friendship seems to be moving very slowly toward a more passionate stage. I look forward to that resolution!

All in all, while there are no real surprises in this book, it’s a cosy and contemplative look at how life during Depression-era Lancashire was both similar to and different than life in its industrial towns and cities. The characters are well drawn, the outlook and relationships likewise, even if slow-moving. It’s the saga’s very slowness, really, that makes it a lovely story to keep up with.

[Monica Mac]

As someone who has done community nursing, it was interesting to me how the work differed in 1937 England versus 21st century Australia. Quite different, actually, but in an interesting way!

Lara and her friend Marion work in a little village and as is the way of villages, everyone knows everyone else and that is not always a good thing. When a diphtheria outbreak occurs in the village, it is touch-and-go for some of the children involved. I have never seen diphtheria "in real life", thanks to a robust vaccination program over decades but there are cases back in the community without there being a good reason for it. It is extremely concerning and frustrating. I think some anti-vaxxers need to read this book, just to get a feel of how this horrible disease can impact on real people. Same kind of thing with measles and polio. Today's young parents just don't realise how devastating these diseases can be.

Anyway, Lara does her best to keep her patients happy but she is pulled into a police matter which really tests her as well as the villagers.

A good book but I did think there needed to be a bit more mention of Lara's love interest to give the story a little more depth. I didn't get as emotionally involved as I expected but I would still like to read the next book in the series, nevertheless :)

4 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.

[Louise Wilson]

The Diary of a Country Nurse #3

1937 - When a diphtheria outbreak sweeps through the Lancashire countryside, district nurse Lara Flynn faces one of the hardest seasons of her career. She and the small team at Ingleside Surgery must work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable in the village and surrounding its children. with young lives hanging in the balance and tensions rising, can Lara show courage, compasson and a quiet strength like never before? But illness is not the only threat to Ingleside. A shocking discovery at the mill pond sends fear rippling through the close-knit community. An the ensuing police investigation gathers pace, the bonds of the village are tested.

I'm really enjoying this series. It tells how country life is not always as we suspect it to be. I like the main characters, especially Lara. If an outbreak of diphtheria isn't enough to contend with, there's also the drowning in the mill pond - was it an accident? Or something more sinister? I guess you'll have to read the book to find out.

Published 21st May 2026

I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #KateEastham for my ARC of #CourageForTheCountryNurse in exchange for an honest review.

[Lily]

In this emotional new novel in Kate Eastham’s historical fiction series, readers follow Lara Flynn and the team at Ingleside Surgery as a diphtheria outbreak sweeps through the countryside. Determined to protect the most vulnerable in the village and on the farms, Lara must show courage and compassion in this difficult time. However, a surprising discovery at the mill pond sends the community into a spiral, and Lara must choose between her duty as a nurse and her instinct to defend the innocent in her new home. As she realizes how closely connected she has become to the village, Lara must see if her future still rests in the community. Packed with details and incredible characters, readers will love the emotional depth of the story and the complex characters. The new challenges in the community add depth to the story, and readers will love the way Lara and the other nurses and members of the surgery rise to the occasion, while the tension in the community is relatable and integral to the story. With high stakes and a great cast of characters, historical fiction fans will love the latest book in this series and the new challenges Lara faces as a nurse in the English countryside.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Jean Mader]

Book Review: Courage for the Country Nurse by Kate Eastham

This third book in the Diary of a Country Nurse series is a heartwarming and engaging read that truly touched my heart. Set in a 1930s English village, it offers a lovely glimpse into community life, centered around two dedicated nurses, two doctors, and a delightful housekeeper.

Lara, the main character, shines as she and her colleagues face a frightening diphtheria outbreak, working tirelessly to care for the village’s sick children. Their compassion and sense of duty are inspiring. Alongside this, a mysterious drowning in the mill pond adds an intriguing thread—was it simply an accident, or something more?

Despite the challenges, there are also lighter moments, with friendships nurtured in the local pub and a hint of romance—especially with Leo, the kind-hearted young veterinarian.

Having read the first two books, I can say this one may be my favorite so far. It’s a sweet, comforting, and satisfying story, and I’m very much looking forward to the next installment.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.

[Kathryn]

I've followed this series from the beginning, so was pleased to dive straight back in to life at Ingleside.
The book opens with village vet, Leo Sullivan, accidentally hitting a dog with his car. As Nurse Lara Flynn helps him to save the dog, they can't hide their feelings for each other. I love that they have a will they?/won't they? romance. But things are not straightforward for them and soon an outbreak of diphtheria in the village pushes all romantic ideas aside.

The book follows Lara and her colleagues as they struggle to manage the caseload in the village. They show strength and courage as they battle to save the village children from diphtheria. Once the outbreak is over, more drama ensues after the return of an unsavoury character from the previous books.

I love the human feel of this book. Even when times are hard, the characters show grit and humour. I loved seeing how friendships grow and the villagers support each other through tough times. Most importantly, Mrs Hewitt is always on standby with tea and cake!

Content warnings: injured dog, sick children, death, drinking

[Becki Basley]

Started August 28 Ended September 2
Courage for the country Nurse by Kate Eastham(Diary of a Country Nurse Series Book two )Audiobook listened to on Hoopla app

It is now 1937 and our country nurse Lara Flynn and the other people who reside in Lancashire must meet the needs of their community as a diphtheria outbreak threatens the lives of the children in their district. It’s a pretty scary condition that one doesn’t hear much about anymore as we are vaccinated for it.

This book does its very best to portray exactly how horrible it was for a child to catch it and for their parents and community to respond to it. It is good that Lara has already been exposed to caring for children during an outbreak and she does the very best she can for the children in her care.

the backstory is a body is found by Lara ice cold in a pond.he was a local bully and his killer needs to be found.

There is a book 4 around the corner!

[Katie Awdas]

Having read the whole series this to me is the best so far. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and feel I got to know the characters more with every page.

The Diphtheria storyline was strong and made me appreciate how lucky we are today that such illnesses do not kill innocent children like they once did. The blossoming relationships for several of the key characters give the storyline some happy moments.

The death in the second half of the book made me think the local police are pretty useless as this is the second crime in the series that they have so far failed to resolve! I very much hope this will be a continuing story to find out who did commit the crime for the next title in the series.

I would recommend the whole series as I have enjoyed them all.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for allowing me to read and review an Arc copy.

[Ann-Marie]

Lara Flynn is experiencing her first winter in Ingleside and what a winter it’s going to be. A diphtheria epidemic sweeps through the village with a number of young children becoming very seriously ill which stretches the resources of the small medical team. Then Lara finds a dead body in a frozen pond – was it an accident or something more serious? The consequences of the police investigation cause a lot of tension in the village and Lara realises just what the people of Ingleside mean to her.

This is the first book I’ve read in this series, and it can be read as a standalone as events from the previous books are briefly mentioned and explained where necessary. I found it a pleasant, undemanding, easy read.

Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.

[Lyn]

Although this is the third book in a series, it still works as a standalone. Diphtheria has struck the village, especially the little children. Lara and her coworkers have a lot to cope with, as well as a murder and the unwanted attentions of Jimmy Diamond and his desire to get his dog back. The interactions between the characters are what bring this book to life. The burgeoning romance between Lara and Leo is lovely, but Lara worries about what happens to her nursing career if she were to marry. Suffice to say, this made me seek out the first two books so that I can get the background and enjoy the experience of life in 1937 England through Lara’s eyes. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for bringing this author to my attention.

[AnnMarie]

This is the 3rd installment of Diary of a Country Nurse. It can be read as a standalone, but the whole series is wonderful. I would recommend that you read all the books in order, as they have a running storyline throughout.

This was a particularly moving story, not least because of a breakout of a life-threatening disease. I will admit to shedding a tear or two!

There is also drama in the form of bullying, a possible murder, and horrendous weather, causing possible fatalities. To lighten the mood, there are some fun moments among the medical team and a couple of romantic moments, too.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but it left some unanswered questions, so I hope the next book comes out very soon!

[Jan]

This was another good book in the series by Kate Eastham. This time the Drs. and nursing staff are dealing with a diphtheria outbreak. There's possible a romance or two in the works, along with some upsetting happenings in the village. Nurse Lara and Marion never slow down, always keeping their patients looked after. I love the little 'family' they have formed in the surgery. All is held together by Mrs. Hewitt, their housekeeper, cook, receptionist and general carer of them all. I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read the ARC. I am glad to see she is already working on the next book. I definitely recommend!

[Leona]

The third book in the Country Nurse series is another absolutely delightful read. I loved everything about this book, from the character to the storyline. There’s a lot going on in the village of Ingleside in Lancashire and district nurse Lara Flynn and her colleagues are kept busy with an outbreak of the dreaded diphtheria . It’s 1967 and the disease is causing a lot of concerns for the parents in the village. There were some very emotional parts throughout the book but some humour as well. I am already excited for the next book in the series.

[Christine]

A lovely storyline with lovely characters one can relate to! This novel is definitely heartwarming! However, it is also a very light read and I have not found it really interesting. For me, the characters (though very nice!) lack depth, and the plot rather flat. But still, for readers who enjoy a light and quick read, this novdl will appeal to them.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

[Susan]

Courage For the Country Nurse, book 3 in a series set in 1937 rural England is a good easy story. I am really enjoying this series. The slow pace of life as Lara cycles the countryside as a district nurse dealing with often life threatening medical problems in the time before antibiotics and wide spread vaccines is interesting. These books have the feel of the All Creatures Great and Small to me. If you are looking to escape the every day world I recommend this whole series.

[Jess Keast]

I received this from NetGalley (thanks!) but I have to read a series in order so I binged the first two. You should read in order.

This was very close to a (very rare) 5* for me! It has the same warm and wonderful writing style as the first two books and characters you feel like you know. She has a real knack for ending her books in the most delightful way.

I NEED MORE IN THIS SERIES!! ❤️

[Valerie McGurk]

This is the third book in the country nurse series. It’s an easy and cosy read that would be perfect for fans of ‘Call the Midwife’. Although it’s part of a series it can be read as a stand alone story.

[Judy G Spivey]

Home Health Nursing in Rural England.

What a great book. The story of rural England Home Care Nurses and Doctors who serve, live and love in the middle of winter and the strong bond, and sometimes a little more among coworkers. Great easy read.

[Kacey/Kris]

A heartwarming story of a nurse who has to deal with the challenges of what might be her most difficult time in her life. So many twist and turns and compelling obstacles in her way.

[Susan]

In 1937 England, a diphtheria outbreak starts taking lives. That is only the beginning for the nurses. It’s a story of pulling together. Well researched. Highly recommend.

[MRS KIM V BARCLAY]

love it

A great series, with twists and turns in the life of a village nurse in the 1930s. I recommend this series

[Patricia]

Nurses are Community Angels

Lara and Marion..Leo and The rest of the Community Angels under the watchful eye,of Mrs Hewitt. Are there through thick and thin

[Julie C]

Great Series very interesting, compelling series. Really focuses on the nursing and village life not just romance. I enjoy Katies style of writing.

[Audrey Miller]

I enjoyed reading this book about the various situations where the country nurse had to show courage when confronted by difficult situations.

[Jacqui]

This story takes place in Lancashire in 1937 and is a continuation of the Country Nurse series. A diphtheria outbreak challenges the families and the medical staff in the small village. Lara makes a shocking discovery.

I love Lara and her medical colleagues in their small town. There is:

- some potential budding romances
- a diphtheria outbreak
- families coming together to support each other
- a mystery involving one of the locals
- friendships amongst the medical staff and other villagers.
- supporting the townspeople through various medical issues

I've enjoyed this series so far. I've read all of the books, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series. It reminds me a bit of Call the Midwife, since the staff at the medical practice all live together under one roof and all support each other.

Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.