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An Orphan in the Snow
War rages, but the women and children of Liverpool’s Dr Barnado’s Home cannot give up hope. An Orphan in the Snow is the perfect heartwarming saga for Christmas.
LIVERPOOL, 1941
Haunted by the death of her sister, June Lavender takes a job at a Dr Barnardo’s orphanage. June couldn’t save Clara from their father’s violence, but perhaps she can help children whose lives have been torn apart by war.
A WORLD AT WAR
When June bumps into Flight Lieutenant Murray Andrews on the bombed streets of Liverpool, the attraction is instant. But how can they think of love when war is tearing the world apart?
A FIGHT FOR HOPE
As winter closes in, and the war rages on, can June find the strength and courage to make a better life for herself and the children?
A gripping story of love, friendship and hope in the darkest of places. Molly Green is an exciting new voice in saga fiction, perfect for fans of Nadine Dorries and Katie Flynn.
LIVERPOOL, 1941
Haunted by the death of her sister, June Lavender takes a job at a Dr Barnardo’s orphanage. June couldn’t save Clara from their father’s violence, but perhaps she can help children whose lives have been torn apart by war.
A WORLD AT WAR
When June bumps into Flight Lieutenant Murray Andrews on the bombed streets of Liverpool, the attraction is instant. But how can they think of love when war is tearing the world apart?
A FIGHT FOR HOPE
As winter closes in, and the war rages on, can June find the strength and courage to make a better life for herself and the children?
A gripping story of love, friendship and hope in the darkest of places. Molly Green is an exciting new voice in saga fiction, perfect for fans of Nadine Dorries and Katie Flynn.
416 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2017
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1038 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
December 8, 2017
Her childhood was not an easy one, her father was a violent drunk and her mother died way too young. Haunted by her younger sister's death, June can't take home life anymore and travels from her home to accept at job in Liverpool at Dr Barnardo’s orphanage. June couldn't save her sister from their father's violence but she feels the need to try to help the evacuees and orphans at the orphanage. Matron as she insists on being called is in charge of the orphanage. She hasn't a compassionate bone in her body. There is no talking to her and running an idea by her that suggests a change in something, no compromises. It's her way and that's it. June meets a young man on the bus on the way to Dr Barnardo’s orphanage, Flight Lieutenant Murray Andrews. Is there a chance for a romance to take off for them when bombs are tearing their world apart ? My favorite character of the book was Lizzie. She is a child who has become mute because of a fire wiping out her entire family while she was at her grandparents house. This child is only 3 and has no one except June at the orphanage. She is in everyone's corner and always takes an extra moment to talk to and comfort the children when they need it. Matron meanwhile is just plain mean and believes in harsh discipline. I loved seeing the progress Lizzie made and seeing her come out of her shell and act like a little girl again that is full of excitement all with June's kindness and compassion. As the book progresses I learned some interesting things about Jane's family and Matron. I enjoy reading about children in orphanage's and seeing them get help and have a happy ending.
Pub Date 30 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date 30 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 10, 2017
June Lavender is a proper heroine: brave and determined, yet haunted by past events. She connects with the children in Barnado’s in a way that only the most cynical reader would dismiss. Molly Green uses her considerable skill to craft June as she takes her character through personal, emotional and physical dangers. June’s generosity and goodheartedness shine through.
The author creates an authentic 1940s environment - her research is excellent, from uniforms, dialogue, and the physical and social milieu. She also challenges the usual wartime story by including characters who appear unsympathetic and are indifferent or event hostile to Britain’s wartime effort.
Although easily described as heartwarming, this is not a sentimental, slushy read; a clever trick to pull off. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy from the publisher free of charge.
The author creates an authentic 1940s environment - her research is excellent, from uniforms, dialogue, and the physical and social milieu. She also challenges the usual wartime story by including characters who appear unsympathetic and are indifferent or event hostile to Britain’s wartime effort.
Although easily described as heartwarming, this is not a sentimental, slushy read; a clever trick to pull off. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy from the publisher free of charge.
May 16, 2018
A world war two story that was a really enjoyable read. Very well written and very hard to put down.
Recommended.
Recommended.
Read
January 11, 2018A wonderful heartwarming read.
April 29, 2021
Trigger warnings for sexual assault and rape.
I picked this book up randomly. There was a cute 'blind-date' book stand at a bookstore, where the books were wrapped and had brief descriptors like romance, WWII etc.. I thought that it sounded fun, and the books were very cheap so I gave it a go, and unwrapped this book. And I won't be making that mistake again; this is why I vet the books I want to read.
The first half of this book was ok. The main issue was the writing, it tells you instead of shows you which was very frustrating. The inner monologue of the main character June, was mainly her just going oh but I musn't think of this, and then have an awkwardly shoe horned in flashback or description of the love interest's eyes. Out of all of this book's flaws, the poor writing is what ultimately made this a very painful book to read. I do believe that this is a debut novel, so I'm not going to write off Molly Green, but the writing was truly underwhelming.
I also had a problem that there was much ambiguity of what was made a person 'good' or 'bad'. There are brief attempts but they are moved on from incredibly quickly with absolutely no resolution. The 'bad' people in the story, the Matron and her assistant, end up being nazis. Which again, isn't really talked about, just sort of oh yes they're nazis, well that means we should probably get rid of them. And then they just sort of disappear and we never hear about them again. June's priorities are also really messed up. She thought she had killed her father, she was thinking about Murray dying, she was being told of her friend's engagement, and the only thing she could think about was herself and when she would next see Murray and whether he would still lover her.
And don't get me started on their relationship. They must have spent less that 24 hours together in this whole book and they get engaged??? I was so confused when they were saying that they loved each other. They barely know each other. I understand that relationships moved quicker during the world wars, but this was ridiculous. Murray also made me uncomfortable in the beginning. The way they met could even be described as sexual harassment. He puts her in an uncomfortable position and then forces her to have excessive physical contact with him and enjoys her obvious discomfort. That was a big yikes from me. And then this romanticised by all of the characters.
This is a massive red flag for the rest of the book. Trigger warnings for sexual assault and rape. As a plot-point June is sexually assaulted by her friend, a man in the airforce who had been helping her through an extremely traumatic day. The attempted rape is interrupted by a bombing, and he saves her life after she makes an incredibly stupid decision to go into a bombed building during more bombing to save a stuffed animal (not the point but what???). We then get to listen to June's internal feelings of shame and self-hatred, because she feels like she is to blame and thinks that everyone will hate her. Now, this is not what I have issues with. This reaction is unfortunately realistic, and would have been even more so at the time. But it is not really challenged, and even when it is it's more in the manner of well June has nothing to ashamed of because she isn't that type of girl and therefore has done nothing wrong. This theme of girl-hatred and slut-shaming is sickeningly constant through the entire novel and was very disappointing. Especially as this isn't an old book and I hold more recently published books to a higher standard in this regard. But anyway, she agonises over telling Murray what happened because she doesn't want him to think that she had sex with anyone else. And there is an attempt to show that she was a victim, it is very poorly done and skated over.
I don't really have that many good things to say. The orphanage setting had potential but there was not much development and honestly there were just too many characters to contend with. Overall, a very disappointing read and I'm sad that I've encountered my first one star of the year less than 10 days into 2021. I wouldn't recommend this because of a combination of poor writing quality and then the problematic elements but if after all this you aren't discouraged, go ahead! Maybe you'll have a different opinion than I did.
I picked this book up randomly. There was a cute 'blind-date' book stand at a bookstore, where the books were wrapped and had brief descriptors like romance, WWII etc.. I thought that it sounded fun, and the books were very cheap so I gave it a go, and unwrapped this book. And I won't be making that mistake again; this is why I vet the books I want to read.
The first half of this book was ok. The main issue was the writing, it tells you instead of shows you which was very frustrating. The inner monologue of the main character June, was mainly her just going oh but I musn't think of this, and then have an awkwardly shoe horned in flashback or description of the love interest's eyes. Out of all of this book's flaws, the poor writing is what ultimately made this a very painful book to read. I do believe that this is a debut novel, so I'm not going to write off Molly Green, but the writing was truly underwhelming.
I also had a problem that there was much ambiguity of what was made a person 'good' or 'bad'. There are brief attempts but they are moved on from incredibly quickly with absolutely no resolution. The 'bad' people in the story, the Matron and her assistant, end up being nazis. Which again, isn't really talked about, just sort of oh yes they're nazis, well that means we should probably get rid of them. And then they just sort of disappear and we never hear about them again. June's priorities are also really messed up. She thought she had killed her father, she was thinking about Murray dying, she was being told of her friend's engagement, and the only thing she could think about was herself and when she would next see Murray and whether he would still lover her.
And don't get me started on their relationship. They must have spent less that 24 hours together in this whole book and they get engaged??? I was so confused when they were saying that they loved each other. They barely know each other. I understand that relationships moved quicker during the world wars, but this was ridiculous. Murray also made me uncomfortable in the beginning. The way they met could even be described as sexual harassment. He puts her in an uncomfortable position and then forces her to have excessive physical contact with him and enjoys her obvious discomfort. That was a big yikes from me. And then this romanticised by all of the characters.
This is a massive red flag for the rest of the book. Trigger warnings for sexual assault and rape. As a plot-point June is sexually assaulted by her friend, a man in the airforce who had been helping her through an extremely traumatic day. The attempted rape is interrupted by a bombing, and he saves her life after she makes an incredibly stupid decision to go into a bombed building during more bombing to save a stuffed animal (not the point but what???). We then get to listen to June's internal feelings of shame and self-hatred, because she feels like she is to blame and thinks that everyone will hate her. Now, this is not what I have issues with. This reaction is unfortunately realistic, and would have been even more so at the time. But it is not really challenged, and even when it is it's more in the manner of well June has nothing to ashamed of because she isn't that type of girl and therefore has done nothing wrong. This theme of girl-hatred and slut-shaming is sickeningly constant through the entire novel and was very disappointing. Especially as this isn't an old book and I hold more recently published books to a higher standard in this regard. But anyway, she agonises over telling Murray what happened because she doesn't want him to think that she had sex with anyone else. And there is an attempt to show that she was a victim, it is very poorly done and skated over.
I don't really have that many good things to say. The orphanage setting had potential but there was not much development and honestly there were just too many characters to contend with. Overall, a very disappointing read and I'm sad that I've encountered my first one star of the year less than 10 days into 2021. I wouldn't recommend this because of a combination of poor writing quality and then the problematic elements but if after all this you aren't discouraged, go ahead! Maybe you'll have a different opinion than I did.
August 21, 2018
June had a horrible childhood and the loss of her younger sister by an abusive father haunted her. When a job came up as a nursery nurse at Dr. Barnardo's home for orphans, June saw this as a way to make up for Clara's death. Little did June know that she would soon face the evil matron of the house who to all apprearances seemed to hate kids.
This book had it all. The war was raging and things were rationed, the home was near an air base so we had dances with the soldiers and love interests. June was a character who was young and yet knew how to relate to children, even those with real problems caused by the horrors of war. The matron was developed as a character that you hated from the start. You wondered how young June was going to survive her when she seemed to clearly hate June and gave her jobs that were not a part of what the matron's assistant would be doing, while she avoided work herself. Luckily, Green also developed some characters that could help support June and clearly enjoyed their work with the children.
If I know that a book revolves around war, I tend to avoid it. I read my friend, Anita's review and thought that since our tastes were similar I would probably enjoy this one. She was right when she recommended it to me. It certainly deserved the rating that I gave it and gave you a glimpse of what war was like for the children.
This book had it all. The war was raging and things were rationed, the home was near an air base so we had dances with the soldiers and love interests. June was a character who was young and yet knew how to relate to children, even those with real problems caused by the horrors of war. The matron was developed as a character that you hated from the start. You wondered how young June was going to survive her when she seemed to clearly hate June and gave her jobs that were not a part of what the matron's assistant would be doing, while she avoided work herself. Luckily, Green also developed some characters that could help support June and clearly enjoyed their work with the children.
If I know that a book revolves around war, I tend to avoid it. I read my friend, Anita's review and thought that since our tastes were similar I would probably enjoy this one. She was right when she recommended it to me. It certainly deserved the rating that I gave it and gave you a glimpse of what war was like for the children.
March 17, 2019
3-1/2 stars
I gave this book 3-1/2 stars as it didn't quite reach a 4-star status. There was so much repetitiveness. The same things were hashed around hundreds of times, misunderstandings, details given again and again. The book could've been a third shorter. This is an easy read, and it was very predictable. It was pleasant enough, but not very deep in thought or plot. I did like the main character, June. For 20 years old, though, she was able to handle things pretty well with only a few breakdowns here and there. However, she went through hard times when she was younger. The Matron was a stormy character. She was a good antagonist, but I wasn't satisfied with how things ended with her. There wasn't a solid reasoning. I won't say more so it's not spoiled for future readers. The cook was amiable, and Iris was good as June's friend. Being so different, they complemented each other. All in all, it was a pretty good story, but tedious with the repetiveness.
I gave this book 3-1/2 stars as it didn't quite reach a 4-star status. There was so much repetitiveness. The same things were hashed around hundreds of times, misunderstandings, details given again and again. The book could've been a third shorter. This is an easy read, and it was very predictable. It was pleasant enough, but not very deep in thought or plot. I did like the main character, June. For 20 years old, though, she was able to handle things pretty well with only a few breakdowns here and there. However, she went through hard times when she was younger. The Matron was a stormy character. She was a good antagonist, but I wasn't satisfied with how things ended with her. There wasn't a solid reasoning. I won't say more so it's not spoiled for future readers. The cook was amiable, and Iris was good as June's friend. Being so different, they complemented each other. All in all, it was a pretty good story, but tedious with the repetiveness.
April 16, 2018
I see that I’m in the minority here with my “average” rating. However I just didn’t love this book. The main character sounded much more juvenile in her thoughts than I would have expected someone her age and in that position to be. I felt like I was reading a book written for young adults...and maybe I was and just didn’t realize it! I also thought, because of the title and book cover, that there would be more of a store with Lizzie. That part seemed to be started but not well developed. The story was ok but just not what I thought it was going to be as it turned into more of a love story than I anticipated.
October 5, 2019
This book was like a bad, hallmark channel movie
November 25, 2022
Although I read this with my Christmas reads, this is not a Christmas story. An Orphan in the Snow is an Historical Fiction book, set during WW2. The story tells of life at Liverpool’s Dr Barnado’s Home. These homes were originally opened to give orphans and street children a place to live safely, but during the war they also housed evacuees. The expression of "The road to hell is paved with good intentions" came to mind as I read this book. It is not as bad as some of the orphan train books, but there is harsh treatment in this story that is rectified by the end. This book centers on June Lavender, who takes a job as the assistant to the matron after the death of her sister. She can no longer live with her father, who was responsible for her death. June is kind hearted and wants to make sure all the children have the best care and treatment. She is up against the hard hearted matron, who has rules in place that she believes are in the best interest of raising strong, non-pampered children, but in truth are punishing them. One child in particular, Lizzie, tugs at June's heart. She is only four and doesn't speak. She has been banished to the nursery and is not even allowed out to eat meals. She is "guarded" by a mean and unhappy young woman, who is making life even more miserable for Lizzie. June defies matron by taking Lizzie outside to play in the snow and finally sees a smile and hears some words. Can June turn this home around and bring kindness and light into the lives of the children?
This was an uplifting story about the power of love, kindness and perseverance. June is a wonderful character, who refuses to cower under the matron. She is able to get many of the staff on her side to support her and report incidence to the managers that come to visit, after their pleas fall on deaf ears when they talk to matron. As we learn about June's past, I quickly understood why she was so adamant that the children be well treated. The children are so sweet. Some are scared and try to hide from the world, some are extremely helpful with the younger children, and some are just kids trying to survive under terrible circumstances. There is also a storyline about June and a pilot she met at a local dance. It didn't overpower the story, but added another realistic element to the book. I loved how this story ended with an uplifting and hopeful conclusion. It touched on several themes including bombings, discrimination, child rearing, family issues, war and it's losses and injuries, and some romance. This was a well-written story that pulled me in from the beginning and kept me interested throughout.
This was an uplifting story about the power of love, kindness and perseverance. June is a wonderful character, who refuses to cower under the matron. She is able to get many of the staff on her side to support her and report incidence to the managers that come to visit, after their pleas fall on deaf ears when they talk to matron. As we learn about June's past, I quickly understood why she was so adamant that the children be well treated. The children are so sweet. Some are scared and try to hide from the world, some are extremely helpful with the younger children, and some are just kids trying to survive under terrible circumstances. There is also a storyline about June and a pilot she met at a local dance. It didn't overpower the story, but added another realistic element to the book. I loved how this story ended with an uplifting and hopeful conclusion. It touched on several themes including bombings, discrimination, child rearing, family issues, war and it's losses and injuries, and some romance. This was a well-written story that pulled me in from the beginning and kept me interested throughout.
January 5, 2023
If you are interested in war books then this book will be perfect for you. The book explored the orphanage within london which saw the development of in particular one of the workers. The reason I didn’t give it five stars because this is not my typical book genre.
The plot, characters and development of the story was amazing. I was constantly wanting to read the next part of the story. There was a couple of unraised questions that as the reader you was desperate to know. There was no cliffhangers which I thoroughly enjoyed. I would recommend this book to readers which an interest in war books and interested in heavy loaded character / plots.
The plot, characters and development of the story was amazing. I was constantly wanting to read the next part of the story. There was a couple of unraised questions that as the reader you was desperate to know. There was no cliffhangers which I thoroughly enjoyed. I would recommend this book to readers which an interest in war books and interested in heavy loaded character / plots.
December 21, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, it's well written, engaging and heartwarming. In fact it has so many elements that I like most in a story, it's set during the second world war, it features children, it has strong characters that you can relate to and a good dose of old fashioned romance too. The main character is June, who after a difficult past gains employment at a Dr Banardo's home just outside Liverpool, her past features in the story as well as her relationships with the staff and children at the home. Certainly deserves five stars.
December 5, 2024
An Orphan in the Snow by Molly Green is a beautifully written, heartwarming story set during World War II. Following Maisie Reynolds as she cares for orphans while uncovering secrets from her own past, the book is full of compassion, resilience, and hope. The characters and historical setting are vividly brought to life, making it a touching and inspiring read. I highly recommend it!
February 9, 2025
It was an enjoyable read. There are many hardships in life but how you deal with them defines your character. June was a strong young lady who was not afraid to change her life
But once again misunderstandings arise when things are not said thus having the characters make decisions on what is perceived to be the truth.
But once again misunderstandings arise when things are not said thus having the characters make decisions on what is perceived to be the truth.
April 26, 2024
I only managed to read the first 72 pages and the last couple of chapters. I was getting annoyed by the characters because they were such stereotypes...the cruel heartless Matron, the kind plucky June etc etc 🤢🤮🤢
December 16, 2017
An orphan in the snow was such a lovely read, I definitely recommend.
March 22, 2019
a very grpiing tale i just couldnt put this.book down
May 28, 2020
Set during the war, in a Barnardo's Home in Liverpool. A sweet romance set against a background of war I found it heart warming with likeable characters and some nasty rogues. Easy to read.
January 7, 2022
Very well written .
March 24, 2019
Orphans
This was he first of a series of novels about women who were associated with an orphanage during WW11 in England. I read the second novel first and liked it a lot so decided to read the first book in the series. I did not enjoy this one as much as the second in the series, possibly because I knew how the story would turn out. It is a fast read. I would have liked more information on the orphans.
This was he first of a series of novels about women who were associated with an orphanage during WW11 in England. I read the second novel first and liked it a lot so decided to read the first book in the series. I did not enjoy this one as much as the second in the series, possibly because I knew how the story would turn out. It is a fast read. I would have liked more information on the orphans.
December 3, 2017
Orphans
A new author to me but one I will definitely be looking for more of her books. The story of June . Iris. And the rest of them working at Dr barnados home was a really good read the story of Lizzie and Freddie THE OTHER CHILDREN well worth a read and well worth 5 STARS
A new author to me but one I will definitely be looking for more of her books. The story of June . Iris. And the rest of them working at Dr barnados home was a really good read the story of Lizzie and Freddie THE OTHER CHILDREN well worth a read and well worth 5 STARS
October 2, 2018
Second Book I have read by Molly
Very enlightened,,we always know our own story..So good for us to see a bigger picture..The Lord sees all and knows all ..Our views are small..Such good story telling ,can not put it down!
Very enlightened,,we always know our own story..So good for us to see a bigger picture..The Lord sees all and knows all ..Our views are small..Such good story telling ,can not put it down!
October 5, 2018
Dr. Barnardo’s homes were prevalent in England before, during and after W.W.II. “An Orphan in the Snow” by Molly Green is one novel in her series telling about one of the homes’ staff and children.
The story begins during W.W. II with June Lavendar’s recollection of her small sister’s death at the hands of her father. Although she is bound to the family to care for her sickly mother, after her death, June heads for her new job at Liverpool’s Dr. Barnardo’s home. On the train, to Liverpool, she bumps into RAF Flight Lieutenant Murray Andrews, thinking at the time how handsome he is, but wanting nothing to do with getting involved with any man.
Her arrival at the home is less than congenial because of the attitude of the Matron, who is called The Fierce One behind her back. June finds that Matron has no compassion or care for those children in her care. In particular, one little girl who has lost her whole family in the bombing does not speak, probably from the trauma of her loss. June tries to befriend her, against the wishes of the Matron and succeeds in helping the little one.
Lt. Andrews is not out of the picture either. He and she meet up again at a dance put on by the soldiers of the nearby camp and the townspeople. Their attraction is obvious, but both are reluctant to commit to anyone at this time of war.
June, in the meantime, is fighting for the children to have a better life than what Matron is providing for them. She makes it her personal business to see that all the children are aware of the fondness that the staff at the home feel for them. She wants them to have at least some semblance of normalcy in the crazy time of war.
I loved this book and have read more in the series by Ms. Green. I felt a part of the times when I read about them in this book. War is a nasty business and the most we can hope for is that the children are cared for. I will look for more novels by this author.
I downloaded a Kindle copy from NetGalley.com in return for my review. You can find this review on my blog at https://wp.me/p2pjIt-wt. Other reviews can be found at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.
The story begins during W.W. II with June Lavendar’s recollection of her small sister’s death at the hands of her father. Although she is bound to the family to care for her sickly mother, after her death, June heads for her new job at Liverpool’s Dr. Barnardo’s home. On the train, to Liverpool, she bumps into RAF Flight Lieutenant Murray Andrews, thinking at the time how handsome he is, but wanting nothing to do with getting involved with any man.
Her arrival at the home is less than congenial because of the attitude of the Matron, who is called The Fierce One behind her back. June finds that Matron has no compassion or care for those children in her care. In particular, one little girl who has lost her whole family in the bombing does not speak, probably from the trauma of her loss. June tries to befriend her, against the wishes of the Matron and succeeds in helping the little one.
Lt. Andrews is not out of the picture either. He and she meet up again at a dance put on by the soldiers of the nearby camp and the townspeople. Their attraction is obvious, but both are reluctant to commit to anyone at this time of war.
June, in the meantime, is fighting for the children to have a better life than what Matron is providing for them. She makes it her personal business to see that all the children are aware of the fondness that the staff at the home feel for them. She wants them to have at least some semblance of normalcy in the crazy time of war.
I loved this book and have read more in the series by Ms. Green. I felt a part of the times when I read about them in this book. War is a nasty business and the most we can hope for is that the children are cared for. I will look for more novels by this author.
I downloaded a Kindle copy from NetGalley.com in return for my review. You can find this review on my blog at https://wp.me/p2pjIt-wt. Other reviews can be found at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.
January 20, 2021
I love historical fiction with strong female protagonists centered in WWII England, and Molly Green’s, An Orphan in the Snow doesn't disappoint. I was hooked from the very first page and can honestly say this novel was a delight to read. It is the first in a 3 book series and I plan to read each subsequent novel.
June Lavender is finally free of the heartache of her childhood home. Trained as a nursery nurse, June leaves London behind to take a job at one of Dr Barnardo’s well known orphanages near Liverpool called Bingham Hall. June never expects her life to change as dramatically as it does once she begins this journey. From meeting the handsome Murray Andrews, a Flight Lieutenant on the train, to the many close friends she makes at Bingham Hall, life will never be the same. Her job is hard and grueling at times, especially under the scrutiny of the heartless head matron, Mrs. Pherson, but she is devoted to the children and vows to give each and every one the love and attention they deserve.
As the war rages on in England, June has to contend with the merciless Mrs. Pherson, as well as the fears surrounding her Flight Lieutenant Andrews. When misunderstandings lead to heartache June must find a way to ease her troubled heart. While a future with Murray is uncertain, she is sure of only one thing. The children need her more than ever and her future lies with them.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the strong female characters and the friendships that they formed in the story. I liked the relationship June developed with all the children, especially Lizzie and Alan, despite matron’s cold and often disapproving demeanor. I also liked Murray Andrews and the way he was always sensitive to June’s and the children's needs. There’s plenty of people to dislike too. Mrs. Pherson and Gilbert were the heartless and dark characters of the story, well written and polar opposites of June and her friends at Bingham Hall. With all these characters and the backdrop of Liverpool and London during WWII England, An Orphan in the Snow by Molly Green is a sweet and delightful novel that any historical fiction buff will enjoy reading.
June Lavender is finally free of the heartache of her childhood home. Trained as a nursery nurse, June leaves London behind to take a job at one of Dr Barnardo’s well known orphanages near Liverpool called Bingham Hall. June never expects her life to change as dramatically as it does once she begins this journey. From meeting the handsome Murray Andrews, a Flight Lieutenant on the train, to the many close friends she makes at Bingham Hall, life will never be the same. Her job is hard and grueling at times, especially under the scrutiny of the heartless head matron, Mrs. Pherson, but she is devoted to the children and vows to give each and every one the love and attention they deserve.
As the war rages on in England, June has to contend with the merciless Mrs. Pherson, as well as the fears surrounding her Flight Lieutenant Andrews. When misunderstandings lead to heartache June must find a way to ease her troubled heart. While a future with Murray is uncertain, she is sure of only one thing. The children need her more than ever and her future lies with them.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the strong female characters and the friendships that they formed in the story. I liked the relationship June developed with all the children, especially Lizzie and Alan, despite matron’s cold and often disapproving demeanor. I also liked Murray Andrews and the way he was always sensitive to June’s and the children's needs. There’s plenty of people to dislike too. Mrs. Pherson and Gilbert were the heartless and dark characters of the story, well written and polar opposites of June and her friends at Bingham Hall. With all these characters and the backdrop of Liverpool and London during WWII England, An Orphan in the Snow by Molly Green is a sweet and delightful novel that any historical fiction buff will enjoy reading.
September 7, 2022
This started as a pleasant read but soon because a bit daunting. It was not brilliantly written. I found the writing very simplistic and somewhat rushed as events would occur and then the result would be quickly explained later in a couple of short sentences. Some very pertinent events were explained so minimally. The author could have done so much better here. Fleshing out certain events would have created drama and suspense which was desperately needed here.
I also found that the two stories taking place didn't quite fit. First you had the orphanage and then the budding romance between the main character and a lieutenant in the army. It didn't seem very cohesive.
To make matters worse another storyline was introduced suddenly involving the protagonists father. This story seemed a bit far fetched. Especially when she told someone she barely knew what had transpired. It made little sense. The events following made even less sense. I felt like the author was trying to create drama unnecessarily here and it just came off badly.
As the story progressed I grew tired of June. She seems so wishy washy. She's always crying and going on. I found her rather pathetic and annoying. I grew extremely tired of her sniveling.
I also found the romance and sudden feelings she and Murray had for one another didn't fit. They barely knew each other! They rarely spent time together during this whole book. Not very realistic in my opinion.
In the end everything is sunshine and rosebuds. I wanted to hurl. The last chapter was so tedious I just wanted it to end. I was going to give this 3 ⭐ because the story was ok but after all that I just can't. I would skip this one. Not worth it.
I also found that the two stories taking place didn't quite fit. First you had the orphanage and then the budding romance between the main character and a lieutenant in the army. It didn't seem very cohesive.
To make matters worse another storyline was introduced suddenly involving the protagonists father. This story seemed a bit far fetched. Especially when she told someone she barely knew what had transpired. It made little sense. The events following made even less sense. I felt like the author was trying to create drama unnecessarily here and it just came off badly.
As the story progressed I grew tired of June. She seems so wishy washy. She's always crying and going on. I found her rather pathetic and annoying. I grew extremely tired of her sniveling.
I also found the romance and sudden feelings she and Murray had for one another didn't fit. They barely knew each other! They rarely spent time together during this whole book. Not very realistic in my opinion.
In the end everything is sunshine and rosebuds. I wanted to hurl. The last chapter was so tedious I just wanted it to end. I was going to give this 3 ⭐ because the story was ok but after all that I just can't. I would skip this one. Not worth it.
January 13, 2018
“An Orphan in the Snow” by Molly Green was a delightful and heartwarming novel. This is my first novel by Ms. Green. She has a definite gift. Her characters are well developed, so much so, that you start to get attached to them. You feel their sadness, their happiness and cheer them on through out the book. This book is a work of historical fiction as it is set during World War II just before, and immediately after the USA joins the allies.
The setting for the book is an orphanage in Liverpool, England. The orphanage takes in children who have been displaced by the war. Either they have lost their homes, families etc. The book delves into the difficult emotional issues these children face at such a young age. One of the main characters, June Lavender, who is hired as the assistant Matron. Ms. Lavender also had a traumatic childhood. Having that kind of childhood has made June the perfect person to deal with these children as she is keenly aware of how they feel. She stands toe to toe with her boss in an effort to bring more love and individual care to these emotionally damaged children.
When I write my review, I do not give an spoilers. I feel sometime reviewers say to much. I will however recommend this book highly. I will look forward to more books by Molly Green. She is a wonderful writer.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Molly Green, and Avon Books, UK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The setting for the book is an orphanage in Liverpool, England. The orphanage takes in children who have been displaced by the war. Either they have lost their homes, families etc. The book delves into the difficult emotional issues these children face at such a young age. One of the main characters, June Lavender, who is hired as the assistant Matron. Ms. Lavender also had a traumatic childhood. Having that kind of childhood has made June the perfect person to deal with these children as she is keenly aware of how they feel. She stands toe to toe with her boss in an effort to bring more love and individual care to these emotionally damaged children.
When I write my review, I do not give an spoilers. I feel sometime reviewers say to much. I will however recommend this book highly. I will look forward to more books by Molly Green. She is a wonderful writer.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Molly Green, and Avon Books, UK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2024
I found this book in the charity shop couple weeks ago and I thought my mum will like this .
The cover of the book is a young girl blonde hair building behind a lit up and lots of snow and the tagline is even in war there is Hope .
That intrigued me , so I also chose to read the book and I've loved it. Though during war time Liverpool this book is so heartfelt a Read.
The main character June Lavender, it's very likable, determined to make sure that the St Barnardo's orphans have a good life and is caring in the way that those children need. From the minute she moved to the St Barnado's or finished to work there , June as a character has really grown into a woman that you trust and you want her to have a really good life.
At times there is sadness for her, an uncomfortable situation with a officer called call Charles and fall for a flight lieutenant called Murray even though it appeared to be unrequited love.
The book is tied up nicely at the end and you can't help but be delighted for June as a character as she finds happiness after a long time of not having that due to her father being violent and losing her young sister sister at his hands .
The cover of the book is a young girl blonde hair building behind a lit up and lots of snow and the tagline is even in war there is Hope .
That intrigued me , so I also chose to read the book and I've loved it. Though during war time Liverpool this book is so heartfelt a Read.
The main character June Lavender, it's very likable, determined to make sure that the St Barnardo's orphans have a good life and is caring in the way that those children need. From the minute she moved to the St Barnado's or finished to work there , June as a character has really grown into a woman that you trust and you want her to have a really good life.
At times there is sadness for her, an uncomfortable situation with a officer called call Charles and fall for a flight lieutenant called Murray even though it appeared to be unrequited love.
The book is tied up nicely at the end and you can't help but be delighted for June as a character as she finds happiness after a long time of not having that due to her father being violent and losing her young sister sister at his hands .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2018
An Orphan in the Snow is a beautifully written historical novel set in war torn England during WWII. It is the story of June Lavender who has escaped her horrible home life with an abusive father to take a job at an Orphanage housing children who have lost their parents due to the war. Her passion is taking care of the children and finding ways to make their lives better in spite of the cold, unfeeling Matron. June struggles to assist three year old Lizzie who has not spoken since her family was killed by a bomb. Her relationship with pilot Murray has its ups and downs as the two try to find a way to make a relationship work amidst all of the strife. It is obvious that the author researched the time as she was able to transport the reader right into 1941 with all of the hardships of the war such as air raids, rationing, and families torn apart. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books by Molly Green.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 25, 2021
An Orphan in the Snow is a feel-good story from start to finish. It’s the story of June who leaves her unhappy London home to become an assistant to the Matron of one of Dr. Barnardo’s UK orphanages. This story, based on real life, takes place near Liverpool during the beginning years of WWII.
The character development was excellent. Matron was cranky and ornery and did her best to make the lives of June, the staff, and the children as unpleasant as possible. June quickly made friends with Iris, the orphanage’s nurse, as well as other staff members. June did whatever she could to be kind to the children, and the children quickly warmed to her. Murray, an RAF Flight Lieutenant, is June’s love interest.
While I wouldn’t call them twists, there are a few little side stories that add to the enjoyment of this book. Some of the writing is a bit predictable, but that’s okay. It’s a light read and a little predictability works. The ending brings it all together nicely; the things I wanted to happen did happen in the end.
The character development was excellent. Matron was cranky and ornery and did her best to make the lives of June, the staff, and the children as unpleasant as possible. June quickly made friends with Iris, the orphanage’s nurse, as well as other staff members. June did whatever she could to be kind to the children, and the children quickly warmed to her. Murray, an RAF Flight Lieutenant, is June’s love interest.
While I wouldn’t call them twists, there are a few little side stories that add to the enjoyment of this book. Some of the writing is a bit predictable, but that’s okay. It’s a light read and a little predictability works. The ending brings it all together nicely; the things I wanted to happen did happen in the end.
October 4, 2018
An Orphan in the Snow: The heart-warming saga you need to read this year is written by Molly Green. This is the second in the series although it actually takes place before An Orphan’s War. Once you start reading, you can’t stop until you finish. Although it is fiction, it is based on the real-life orphanages set up by Dr. Barnado during the Second World War.
June Lavender left home to travel to Liverpool to work at Dr. Barnado’s orphanage there. She was a nursery nurse; so teaching children came next. She was to be the assistant to the Matron. This meant she did whatever the Matron told her to do. June saw a lot of things that needed to be changed at the Home but the Matron wouldn’t let her change anything. However, June did change things using a round about way to do it. She met Murray on the train to Liverpool and their romance had to be worked around the Matron. Miscommunication doesn’t help.
The book is very good and I highly recommend
June Lavender left home to travel to Liverpool to work at Dr. Barnado’s orphanage there. She was a nursery nurse; so teaching children came next. She was to be the assistant to the Matron. This meant she did whatever the Matron told her to do. June saw a lot of things that needed to be changed at the Home but the Matron wouldn’t let her change anything. However, June did change things using a round about way to do it. She met Murray on the train to Liverpool and their romance had to be worked around the Matron. Miscommunication doesn’t help.
The book is very good and I highly recommend
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