Before the Mountain Falls

by Luisa A. Jones

1939. When pregnant evacuee Norma Sparrow arrives in a remote Welsh valley, she brings more than just her battered suitcase. She holds close a secret that could destroy the fragile new life she’s desperate to build…

Fleeing London as war breaks, Norma has reinvented herself as Mrs Finch – a respectable young widow. It’s a lie born of desperation: pregnant, penniless, and abandoned by the man who promised to marry her, she has nowhere else to turn. In the heart of the Welsh hills, far from the shame of her past, she might finally find the fresh start she’s always dreamed of.

But keeping secrets in the close-knit valley of Pontybrenin proves impossible. Billeted with a stern church minister and his family, Norma finds herself drawn into a world she never expected. She finds friendship in unlikely places and a love that makes her believe in second chances. Yet beneath all these fragile new feelings, she must face her deepest fear – the one that’s haunted her since childhood: that she’ll fail her baby the way her own mother failed her.

As war darkens over Britain and the tight-knit Welsh community faces losing their mountain homes, Norma discovers that the courage to stay – and to love – might be the bravest choice she’s ever made.

A deeply poignant tale of resilience, found family and second chances – heartwarming, captivating and impossible to forget. Perfect for fans of When the World Fell Silent.

Genres: Historical Fiction

374 pages, Paperback

Published February 18, 2026

Reviews

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

1939. London. Norma Sparrow is pregnant, she loses her job as a seamstress and the room she rents and boards a train for women and children being evacuated. She arrives in a tiny town in Wales called Pontybrenin, she pretends to be married and goes by the name of Mrs. Finch.

Norma is billeted with the local minister, Emrys Powell and his wife Miriam and their adult son Aneurin, and Norma knows she's unwelcome and doesn't fit in. The Powell’s are deeply religious, old fashioned and she struggles with feeling isolated, she misses England, being able to go to the pictures and have some fun.

Emrys travels to see his mother and brother on her farm at Mountain Moel, here he holds a church services for those who live in the rural community and they speak Welsh. Miriam can’t understand why Norma isn’t excited to be pregnant, something she longs for, especially when she lugged her sewing machine with her and should be making things for the baby’s arrival.

Norma discovers what real friendship and love is, but because of her childhood and being in foster care Norma feels like she doesn’t deserve him or her baby and she will fail at being a mother like her own.

The other issue is the war, while Wales might be part of the British Empire, many men like Emrys think they should stay out of it, he was injured in The Great War and two of his brothers killed and he doesn’t want Aneurin to have be in the same predicament. When a letter arrives at Pant Glas farm, informing them the whole area is going to be taken over by the English army and used as Artillery Range Emrys is determined to save his heritage and the beautiful valley.

I received a copy of Before the Mountains Falls by Luisa A. Jones from Storm Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. I highly recommend reading this book, it shines a light many things I didn’t know about Wales, the traditions and language, rocky relationship with England, and the Second World War and was based around real events.

The evacuees, both women and children, how many found it very hard to adapt to living in the country and especially Wales and it’s a story of resilience and courage, standing up for what you think is right, both Norma, Emrys, Aneurin and Gwenllian do this.

Everyone deserves to be not judged and a second chance, a family and a home, please write a sequel Ms Jones, I highly recommend and five stars from me.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been trying to find adequate words to talk about this exceptionally written and very powerful novel by Luisa A Jones. Before the Mountain Falls is an incredibly moving story. I It grabbed onto my heart and never let go from the moment I saw the opening quote by Oscar Wilde. “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars”. And then the sadness gripped me when I read how Norma, the main character, is sitting and waiting on her wedding day for the groom who never shows up. Her emotional injury becomes visible in the crushed petals that fall on her lap. I knew this was going to be an emotionally charged novel—and it is— plus it is an honest portrayal of relationships between people of different classes and cultures. But there is so much more to this unforgettable story—including the impact of what happened to the Welsh people when WW2 began, and how they lost their homes and lands to the English government. Plus the lesser known evacuee situation for pregnant women and those with small children. Conditions for those evacuees did not always prove pleasant or fair.

Faith and religion are also a big part of this story and how sometimes people don’t practice what they preach. Initially a number in the community, those in a Welsh village and in big city London, were judgemental and unforgiving to Norma. She saw this with her landlord, employer and then in her new home in Wales. Emrys is a minister who should know better but whose actions and tongue are harsh. The Bible scripture “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you," certainly comes to mind. How we treat others will be reflected back on ourselves. So take the opposite stance by not condemning others, and avoid being condemned. ‘Forgive, and you will be forgiven," and so forth.

This novel shows the destruction of judging by mere appearances and self-righteous condemnation. A lot of this happens in Before the Mountain Falls until a few kind hearts lead by a positive example. The novel sends out a warning against hypocritical judgement. Nobody is above making mistakes. It is part of being human. And we don’t know what others have been through that has led to their unsavoury or unfortunate situations. The joy in this novel is the promise of hope and forgiveness when eyes open to the truth. Then healing comes and lives turn around.

Norma is on the brunt end of terrible treatment because she is pregnant and unwed. But even though she tried to remedy her situation, her plans to marry the father of her child did not work out. He turns out to be a worse character than she knew. Without work or a home now due to her pregnancy, she is forced to leave the city and become an evacuee, hoping it will give her a fresh start. I felt sad for her and all those women of the past who were rejected and who did not have the luxuries of support, love and family. Norma was basically abused and used in past relationships. But she is strong and it is her determination that keeps her going. Her journey into a new life and setting, shows her bravery. It is a second chance but not without many trials. Fortunately it eventually leads her to receive what she craves and should have. I was totally won over by this woman. The author has given us a full picture of both her vices and virtues making her realistic. Her character arc was well presented. The scraps of cloth she used to make her special gifts, represent a diverse group of people sewn together and beautified by special stitching (coming together from various backgrounds with common needs). We, as humans, have the same desires to be loved, have a home and opportunities to share and expand our skills.

And as for skills, Norma was an incredibly gifted seamstress. I loved her vision and passion to have her own business. Beautiful clothes meant a lot to her. They were a way she expressed herself. To let others know she was ‘worth looking at’, ‘deserving’ of their ‘attention’. It was her way of making up for years of poverty, plus it also gave her joy to share her gift with others: to make people happy through the beautiful items she created so they could feel the same as she did.

I appreciated how well all that the characters were presented. Norma, of course, stands out but next to her Gwenllian, Norma’s mother-in-law, for her feistiness and honesty. It is easy to see why Norma, once she got to know her, enjoyed talking to her. She became a surprising support and the voice of wisdom and grace along with Aneurin and Grandfather Joe (I adored these two). They are the beacons in this novel. I also appreciated the difficult position of Miriam who had a conscience, but often let the expectations of others (particularly her husband) rule her actions.

There are so many beautiful and moving passages in this novel but I will share one. When Norma is panicking about something she has done, she suddenly remembers what Aneurin said to her when she was afraid. ‘Look around you, now. Tell me what you see.’ She begins to focus on the birds, the path, the golden leaves and the mountain. The mountain that previously loomed ‘forbiddingly over her.’ Now that she has visited it, it feels more like a ‘guardian,’ ‘a reassuring presence.’ The mountain represents something new for her. It is constant and non-judgemental. This is the sort of support she has needed in her life and never had from people. She has always been fighting to survive, receive acceptance and just wanting to be loved and appreciated. Does she eventually find what she is looking for? Yes. And in the most beautiful ways imaginable. Her world changes and this story brims over with the power of forgiveness when people come together in a new harmony showing grace and kindness to each other.

This is a relationship driven story with many valleys, peaks and surprises. The mountain is a great symbol of strength and acceptance. We are reminded of all the discord below in its shadow until people find it in their hearts to not judge, to forgive and find peace with each other.

The novel is perfectly executed and the ending is uplifting but I wanted to read more! Hopefully there is a sequel? I highly recommend Before the Mountain Falls as it will leave a serious everlasting mark on your heart. A must read for ’26 Historical fiction lovers. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

1939 isthe main focus of this book. Norma is jilted at the “ altar” by her prison bound boyfriend, pregnant, loses her housing and job as a seamstress due to all of these factors, she changes her identity, becomes billeted to Wales where she is housed with a minister, his younger second wife and his young adult son. The story focuses on their relationship, with conflicts and compassion . The story also focuses on life in Wales in the early days of World War II, the difficulties and hardships facing these hardworking people, I enjoyed this well researched, well written story.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second WWII historical novel set in Wales that I have read by this author. I really liked the characters, the plot and the author's quality writing. All the dialogue ringed true as did the situations. I really felt I got to know them and share in their concerns and troubles.

I highly recommend this heartfelt book to anyone interested in that historical period. The inclusion of Welsh phrases and history are a bonus.

Thank you to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for an advance copy.

[Ivy Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.

The story follows Norma, a pregnant, 21-year-old seamstress, whose plans of marriage come crashing down. Pregnant, ashamed, and abandoned, Norma buys a cheap wedding ring from a pawn shop and joins the evacuees going to Wales under a fake last name and heads for the village of Pontybrenin, where she ends up staying at a manse, rediscovering herself. However, as her feelings for Aneurin, the son of the couple Norma stays with, grow deeper, she also comes to a crossroads. She will either reveal the truth and destroy everything, or continue living the lie she created, even though it suffocates her.

As a historical fiction lover, I internalized every single page of this beautifully written novel. I admired Norma's courage and resilience, and it was so easy for me to cheer for her. Although at times her "what if" spiralings might come across as annoying, they are obviously the result of years of abandonment, humiliation, condescending smirks thrown her way, and losing everything she loved or valued. While I was utterly impressed by Norma's fight to survive and fit in, I was heartbroken by the struggles of the farming families in Welsh villages during WW II. The author very clearly did a great amount of research and put together an amazing portrayal of the people and their values and beliefs back in the day. My heart was broken so many times during the course of the book, but the ending surely put the pieces back together.

I strongly feel that this is a must-read for every historical fiction lover and should have its rightful place on their bookshelves.

[Helen H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before the Mountain Falls is a deeply-moving story set in Pontybrenin at the outset of the Second World War. Not only is this a captivating novel with such elaborate characters, it is an informative work of fiction that gives a voice to the Welsh farming community whose story is little-known, or perhaps lost to history.

Fiesty, pregnant evacuee, Norma, leaves London for the Welsh countryside and finds herself billeted with the devout Reverend Emrys Powell and his wife, Miriam. What a shock to the system for all parties! There are moments that made me smile and the dialogue is marvellous. Norma, with her brash, Cockney ways, is like a fish out of water and it’s safe to say, she turns the Powell household upside down!

Moel Carnau, the mountain that initially makes Norma feel hemmed in, becomes a familiar, reassuring presence. Whatever Norma’s circumstances or whatever madness infected the world, the mountain will always be there, constant and solid.
But in 1940, the peace of these Welsh mountains was destroyed by an eviction notice. Thousands of acres of land were taken over by the British government for military use. An entire community lost their land, their livestock, their livelihood and their homes that had been part of their family for generations. The author portrays this devastating part of Welsh history with sensitivity and empathy.

Before the Mountain Falls is a beautiful reminder that dire circumstances, poor choices and harsh judgment do not define a person’s entire life. Norma’s life is transformed by the power of forgiveness, community and new-found friends and family…..and I loved every minute of her story.

[Kathleen Riggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unforgettable Characters in a Powerful Story

This book completely blew me away. Set in 1939 as the world stands on the edge of war, the story follows Norma, a young woman forced to run when she finds herself pregnant, unmarried, and alone after the man who promised to marry her is arrested for murder.
Norma is a wonderfully written characterwho is strong, frightened, determined, and deeply human. Watching her become “Mrs Finch” and try to build a new life in the remote Welsh valley of Pontybrenin is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Her courage and vulnerability make her impossible not to care about.
The minister and his family add so much depth to the story. What begins as a stern and uncertain arrangement slowly turns into something far more meaningful. Their relationships grow bringing warmth, friendship, and a sense of belonging that Norma has never truly known.

The characters are what truly make this book shine. Each one feels real and layered, and together they create a story full of emotion, hope, and unexpected love. An unforgettable read that stayed with me long after I finished. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have lots of mixed feelings about this book. I really wish I could give half stars because this rating should really be 3.5 stars. On the pro side, I liked the overall story, enjoyed being exposed to a bit of Welsh language and culture, loved the development of the relationships between Miriam and with her mother-in-law, her husband and Norma. I believe Norma simply needed to be loved and accepted to shine, that she was always the same person she showed us as the book began. I appreciated the fact that the author tied up all the loose ends, leaving no story thread hanging. On the con side for me was the predictability of the story and the feeling that I've read this before throughout most of the book. I found myself wanting things to move along. All in all, it's a sweet read. I'm always up for a good redemption story and this one provides redemption for several characters.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Olivia Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before the Mountains Fall by Luisa A. Jones was a moving and engaging historical novel that pulled me in from the very beginning.

In 1939, Norma Sparrow’s life falls apart when she is stood up on her wedding day. Pregnant and unmarried at a time when that carried enormous social stigma, she leaves London during the wartime evacuations and heads to Wales. There she reinvents herself as Norma Finch, pretending to be a married woman in order to avoid being judged and treated as an outcast.

I loved the characters in this story. They felt real and layered, and I quickly became invested in their lives. The setting in wartime Wales added another dimension to the story, and the book does a wonderful job capturing the emotional weight of the time.

This was a story that truly made you feel all the emotions—hope, heartbreak, fear, and resilience. Norma’s journey, and the choices she has to make to survive and protect herself, made for a compelling and often touching read.

Overall, this was a beautifully written historical novel with memorable characters and an emotional story that stayed with me after I finished.

A solid 4-star read for fans of character-driven historical fiction.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Norma hasn’t had an easy life, however, she is good at sewing and has high hopes. Pregnant and left at the altar, she has nowhere to go. In 1939, unwed pregnant women are frowned upon. Taking a chance to evacuate to Wales, she assumes a married name and starts afresh. This is story about bravery, loss, family relationships and impact of war. The community is reeling after the government requisitions acres of farming land for training purposes. Norma makes her way in this new environment, showing courage and determination. This is a beautiful story about making fresh starts and taking chances, and daring to stand up for what you believe in. If you love historical fiction, based around real events, I recommend this book to you . Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing the opportunity to read more from this talented author.

[Coco · Rating 4 out of 5]

Uprated my review from 3.5 to 4* as it fully deserves to be an audio book.

Mixing the historical eviction of the community of Mynydd Epynt from their land, with fiction, Before the Mountain Falls, introduces Norma Sparrow fleeing wartime London's East End to a new life in rural Wales.

The consequence of being jilted at the alter and obviously pregnant, Norma immediately loses her job and her lodgings. In desperation, she obtains a seat on an evacuee's train, where on arrival in the Welsh valley of Pontybrenin she reinvents herself as Mrs Norma Finch.

All host accommodation being full, as a last resort, the church minister, Reverend Emrys Powell, is persuaded, much against his will, to accept Norma into his home. Headed by Emrys, who is vocal in his hatred of the English, the family are devoutly religious and frequently horrified by Norma's city ways.

As her pregnancy advances, Norma uses her dressmaking skills to earn a living in Pontybrenin, all the time keeping secret of her unmarried state for fear of being shunned in the close knit community

I enjoyed the book's mix of fact and fiction, but stumbled over the many local names. Should this be released as an audio book (narrated by a Welsh reader), then I'd highly recommend it, even reading/listening again.

With thanks to Storm Publishing and the author for the eARC, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this warm-hearted, deeply moving wartime story set in Wales. When pregnant and unmarried Norma is evacuated from London and ends up in a Welsh town deep in the countryside, her life can never be the same again. Billeted with Miriam and her husband and son, Norma is a fish out of water and causes consternation amongst the locals. With nothing and no one to support her, Norma has to make her way through a very challenging situation. I learned so much about how the Welsh were treated in the war, and the ramifications that still persist. Luisa Jones is a superb storyteller, and the pages flew by. A novel full of heart. ❤️

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is really a 3.5 rating but I didn’t love the ending so I went with 3. It was an interesting story. A poor girl from London finds herself pregnant, jobless and homeless. And then she’s stood up at the courthouse. She ends up on a train to Wales. It’s difficult to write a review when you have mixed feelings about a book. The book has its good points and it falls short in a few different areas. I was hoping that the end would have a better developed, more robust ending. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy for my honest review.

[Mich Dandonneau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

The index of Welsh language at the beginning only heightened my excitement for this book. A woman with a big secret trying to make it by? I am in.

It was beautifully written and clearly meticulously researched. It felt long in places, but not full of filler. I think anyone looking for a novel to take their time with and indulge in, this is a great choice.