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War Flower
From the political upheaval of sixties Sydney to the killing fields of Vietnam, an epic story of love, war and forgiveness.
The 1960’s are beating a fresh pulse of political and cultural upheaval through Sydney but for sheltered convent schoolgirl Poppy Flannery such changes seem redundant. But that doesn’t stop her from longing to join in, especially if it means spending time with the popular boy she secretly loves, Ben Williamson. So when the opportunity for a dream escape to Surfers Paradise arrives, Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary seize it, and find themselves in the midst of the swinging sixties at last.
Rosemary embraces their secret new life with a vengeance, discovering drugs, boys and radical politics in a haze of parties, music festivals and protest marches. But such freedom is stolen when Rosemary’s great love Angus is sent to Vietnam, along with Ben.
Soon a war fought thousands of kilometres away will arrive on the twins’ door in the form of orphaned refugee Thuy. As many more victims begin to appear, including shattered versions of Australian soldiers, they must decide how far they will go for the men they adore, and ask themselves whether love really is all that you need.
"Through her sensitivity, beautiful writing and gift as a storyteller, O'Connor's readers come to know and love her characters." — Weekly Times
The 1960’s are beating a fresh pulse of political and cultural upheaval through Sydney but for sheltered convent schoolgirl Poppy Flannery such changes seem redundant. But that doesn’t stop her from longing to join in, especially if it means spending time with the popular boy she secretly loves, Ben Williamson. So when the opportunity for a dream escape to Surfers Paradise arrives, Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary seize it, and find themselves in the midst of the swinging sixties at last.
Rosemary embraces their secret new life with a vengeance, discovering drugs, boys and radical politics in a haze of parties, music festivals and protest marches. But such freedom is stolen when Rosemary’s great love Angus is sent to Vietnam, along with Ben.
Soon a war fought thousands of kilometres away will arrive on the twins’ door in the form of orphaned refugee Thuy. As many more victims begin to appear, including shattered versions of Australian soldiers, they must decide how far they will go for the men they adore, and ask themselves whether love really is all that you need.
"Through her sensitivity, beautiful writing and gift as a storyteller, O'Connor's readers come to know and love her characters." — Weekly Times
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 18, 2017
19 people are currently reading
257 people want to read
About the author
Mary-Anne O'Connor
13 books174 followersMary-Anne O'Connor nee Best grew up in Wahroonga in the Bushland Shire of Hornsby-Kuringai, northern Sydney. The youngest of six children, her childhood was spent exploring the local bush and playing music with her siblings and close neighbours. An avid reader, she devoured her mother Dorn's extensive library and was often found trying to finish a chapter by torchlight late at night. She also began to fill every blank piece of paper in the house with stories and drawings of her own and dreamt of becoming a writer one day.
When she was twelve her father Kevin Best left his established career in the stock-market to become one of Australia's best-loved artists. The perseverance and ultimate triumph she witnessed during those years left her inspired to follow in his footsteps and pursue her own creative aspirations. A multi-faceted career path followed in marketing and teaching, along with the completion of education/arts degree with specialities in literature, music and environment. During this time she also co-wrote two books with her father, A Brush with Light and Secrets of the Brush. Work then began on her first major novel, Gallipoli Street. This work gained critical acclaim and finished at #3 for debut novels in Australia in 2015.
Since then she written four more best-selling novels: Worth Fighting For, War Flower, In A Great Southern Land and Where Fortune Lies. Her sixth novel, Sisters of Freedom, is due out in March, 2021.
Mary-Anne has drawn on her love of the Australian bush, her fascination with her own family history and her deep, abiding respect for the men and women who carried our nation through turbulent, formative times to produce these novels.
They were written in her office at home beneath a long window that overlooks her beloved gum trees. She still lives in the Bushland Shire with her husband Anthony, their two sons, Jimmy and Jack and their very spoilt, gorgeous dog, Saxon.
When she was twelve her father Kevin Best left his established career in the stock-market to become one of Australia's best-loved artists. The perseverance and ultimate triumph she witnessed during those years left her inspired to follow in his footsteps and pursue her own creative aspirations. A multi-faceted career path followed in marketing and teaching, along with the completion of education/arts degree with specialities in literature, music and environment. During this time she also co-wrote two books with her father, A Brush with Light and Secrets of the Brush. Work then began on her first major novel, Gallipoli Street. This work gained critical acclaim and finished at #3 for debut novels in Australia in 2015.
Since then she written four more best-selling novels: Worth Fighting For, War Flower, In A Great Southern Land and Where Fortune Lies. Her sixth novel, Sisters of Freedom, is due out in March, 2021.
Mary-Anne has drawn on her love of the Australian bush, her fascination with her own family history and her deep, abiding respect for the men and women who carried our nation through turbulent, formative times to produce these novels.
They were written in her office at home beneath a long window that overlooks her beloved gum trees. She still lives in the Bushland Shire with her husband Anthony, their two sons, Jimmy and Jack and their very spoilt, gorgeous dog, Saxon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 8, 2018
War Flower follows the lives of twins, Poppy and Rosemary. The girls were wall flowers, growing up in a strict Catholic family, often bullied by the cool girls at school. However after graduating high school and moving to University campus they discover a new life in a blur of alcohol, drugs and parties.
Ben comes from a well to do family with a long line of military men. He knows that duty comes before anything, even love.
Angus is the worry wart whilst his brother Spike is spontaneous and often reckless. The brothers drive across the dusty Australian outback from WA to Surfers Paradise Qld. A trip that will change their lives forever!
War Flower is as much an ode to the 60’s as it is an overwhelming account of how the Vietnam War had a far reaching impact on everyone’s life.
O’Connor holds no bars as she vividly describes life in the 60’s. Music, drugs and politics are a major part of the book as the story slowly brings the reader into the true feel of the sixties. The first half of the story takes place over a six month period and endears the reader to the main set of characters. The remaining half is much faster paced and spans a seven year period.
Overall Wall Flower was an engaging read with well drawn characters showing a true depiction of life in the 60’s around the time of the Vietnam War.
The writing was a bit flowery at times and I feel this wasn’t really necessary. However my congratulations and admiration go to O’Connor for writing a compelling story befitting the topic without the gore, explicit sex and bad language.
This review is part of the Beauty & Lace Bookclub
To read the original review on Beauty & Lace please visit http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
Ben comes from a well to do family with a long line of military men. He knows that duty comes before anything, even love.
Angus is the worry wart whilst his brother Spike is spontaneous and often reckless. The brothers drive across the dusty Australian outback from WA to Surfers Paradise Qld. A trip that will change their lives forever!
War Flower is as much an ode to the 60’s as it is an overwhelming account of how the Vietnam War had a far reaching impact on everyone’s life.
O’Connor holds no bars as she vividly describes life in the 60’s. Music, drugs and politics are a major part of the book as the story slowly brings the reader into the true feel of the sixties. The first half of the story takes place over a six month period and endears the reader to the main set of characters. The remaining half is much faster paced and spans a seven year period.
Overall Wall Flower was an engaging read with well drawn characters showing a true depiction of life in the 60’s around the time of the Vietnam War.
The writing was a bit flowery at times and I feel this wasn’t really necessary. However my congratulations and admiration go to O’Connor for writing a compelling story befitting the topic without the gore, explicit sex and bad language.
This review is part of the Beauty & Lace Bookclub
To read the original review on Beauty & Lace please visit http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
September 11, 2017
Poppy Flannery and her twin sister Rosemary were kept under a tight rein by their strict Catholic parents – so much so that when they finally went to a school dance, their naivety and old-fashioned ways made them immediate wallflowers. The bullies from school didn’t leave them alone, continuing the taunts wherever they were. When the school excursion for their choir went to Surfers Paradise, both girls were there. The swinging sixties with the pot, the dance moves, the hippies – Poppy and Rosemary had a ball. Ben Williamson was also there and Poppy fell for him in a big way. And when Rosemary met Angus and Spike – brothers from Western Australia – Angus and she became staunch friends.
But when Ben and Angus were both sent to Vietnam to fight, the girls' lives changed. Rosemary loved the feeling that drugs gave her; Poppy continued her studies and waited for Ben. The hardships of war; the loss of friends; the terror of never knowing what was ahead – the soldiers who returned were not the same carefree men who left.
What was life to be like for these men, and the women who’d waited for them? The shattered men who felt guilt and loss deep inside – could their loved ones understand what they had been through?
War Flower by Aussie author Mary-Anne O’Connor was utterly, heartbreakingly brilliant! Written with compassion, understanding, love and caring, the author has blended the facts of a horrific war with a heart-warming fiction to make War Flower a “real” story. I don’t recall reading a novel about the Vietnam War before now and I thoroughly enjoyed it – and most highly recommend it.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
But when Ben and Angus were both sent to Vietnam to fight, the girls' lives changed. Rosemary loved the feeling that drugs gave her; Poppy continued her studies and waited for Ben. The hardships of war; the loss of friends; the terror of never knowing what was ahead – the soldiers who returned were not the same carefree men who left.
What was life to be like for these men, and the women who’d waited for them? The shattered men who felt guilt and loss deep inside – could their loved ones understand what they had been through?
War Flower by Aussie author Mary-Anne O’Connor was utterly, heartbreakingly brilliant! Written with compassion, understanding, love and caring, the author has blended the facts of a horrific war with a heart-warming fiction to make War Flower a “real” story. I don’t recall reading a novel about the Vietnam War before now and I thoroughly enjoyed it – and most highly recommend it.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital copy to read and review.
November 26, 2017
A beautiful sweeping love story
March 8, 2020
I couldn't put this book down. I started reading, thinking it was rather cute. It obviously got heavier as the book went on (it is about war after all). I usually get to the end of the book and think 'Is that it? Wheat happenes next?' but for this story I was content with the ending.
I definitely think I will be picking up more of her books in the future.
I definitely think I will be picking up more of her books in the future.
June 4, 2018
I loved this book. From the 60's rock culture, the Australian connections and the insight into the effects of the Vietnam War, this was a great story. I enjoyed how this story was segmented into parts that described different parts of time. I really liked Poppy as a character, and it broke my heart how Barbara tricked Ben into marrying her. All the tribulations that continued for Poppy and Ben's love story, got a bit annoying as I just wanted them to be happy. I liked how Angus and Rosemary were such a perfect couple, but when he returned from war, there was no return. This was a good example of the effects of war, even when soldiers survive, their lives still change dramatically. This book makes me want to pick up Mary-Anne O'Connor's other books, as I really enjoyed this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2018
Wow, wow, wow! To say that this is an amazing book is an understatement. It is not often that a book can make me laugh out loud, hold my breath with suspense and tension, cry with grief, and still feel the exuberance of youth and change by the people. This book made me feel all of that and more.
War Flower follows the lives, trials and triumphs of the Flannery twins, Rosemary and Poppy, and yet it does so much more than that. It transports you up and down the east coast of Australia and over to Vietnam throughout the sixties and seventies. It immerses you in the culture, sights and sounds of the era and yet it remains authentic and doesn't become cliched or cheesy. While the author is vivid in her descriptions it doesn't overwhelm the story, it transports you to those places.
I can't recommend this book enough and eagerly anticipate reading more of this author's work. A massive thank you goes to Beauty & Lace Book Club and Harlequin, without whom I may never have found this book.
War Flower by Mary-Anne O'Connor is a must read.
War Flower follows the lives, trials and triumphs of the Flannery twins, Rosemary and Poppy, and yet it does so much more than that. It transports you up and down the east coast of Australia and over to Vietnam throughout the sixties and seventies. It immerses you in the culture, sights and sounds of the era and yet it remains authentic and doesn't become cliched or cheesy. While the author is vivid in her descriptions it doesn't overwhelm the story, it transports you to those places.
I can't recommend this book enough and eagerly anticipate reading more of this author's work. A massive thank you goes to Beauty & Lace Book Club and Harlequin, without whom I may never have found this book.
War Flower by Mary-Anne O'Connor is a must read.
November 23, 2017
Thank you to Harlequin Books & Beauty & Lace Bookclub for the opportunity to review this book, War Flower by Mary-Anne O’Connor.
When I signed up to review this book, I initially had the impression that War Flower would be the usual romantic tale of a lovely young couple who overcome family difficulties or some travesty only to become husband and wife to live happily ever after; a sugary sweet romance. My goodness, I stand corrected. This is a romantic wartime novel that packs one hell of a punch with a truly tumultuous story line.
Poppy and Rosemary are twin sisters who grow up as sheltered Catholic school girls in the swinging 60s. They are naive, shy and subservient until they are finally allowed to spread their wings as they near the end of high-school; then their lives change forever.
Poppy meets Ben and instantly falls in love, and in competition for his affection with the most popular girl in school, Barbara. Rosemary meets Angus and falls for him too and life should be perfect. Then the boys are sent to fight in the Vietnam War and all of their lives are changed forever. Will the boys survive? Will they return to the safety of home? Will they have changed after witnessing the atrocities of war? Will the girls be waiting for them when they get home? Poppy & Rosemary have lives of their own and are keen to experience a new social atmosphere they have not been accustomed to, sex, drugs and rock & roll.
It is clear that this book has been very well researched by the author as we gain a true insight into the physical and psychological effects of wartime, the fear & vulnerability felt by those who are conscripted, and the heart wrenching separation and fear as loved ones are kept far apart from each other during wartime.
War Flower is a beautifully written tome; an insight into the experiences of those who grew up in Australia during huge political upheaval, war in a foreign land and the party, drug & carefree cultures of the 1960’s.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this accomplished author.
When I signed up to review this book, I initially had the impression that War Flower would be the usual romantic tale of a lovely young couple who overcome family difficulties or some travesty only to become husband and wife to live happily ever after; a sugary sweet romance. My goodness, I stand corrected. This is a romantic wartime novel that packs one hell of a punch with a truly tumultuous story line.
Poppy and Rosemary are twin sisters who grow up as sheltered Catholic school girls in the swinging 60s. They are naive, shy and subservient until they are finally allowed to spread their wings as they near the end of high-school; then their lives change forever.
Poppy meets Ben and instantly falls in love, and in competition for his affection with the most popular girl in school, Barbara. Rosemary meets Angus and falls for him too and life should be perfect. Then the boys are sent to fight in the Vietnam War and all of their lives are changed forever. Will the boys survive? Will they return to the safety of home? Will they have changed after witnessing the atrocities of war? Will the girls be waiting for them when they get home? Poppy & Rosemary have lives of their own and are keen to experience a new social atmosphere they have not been accustomed to, sex, drugs and rock & roll.
It is clear that this book has been very well researched by the author as we gain a true insight into the physical and psychological effects of wartime, the fear & vulnerability felt by those who are conscripted, and the heart wrenching separation and fear as loved ones are kept far apart from each other during wartime.
War Flower is a beautifully written tome; an insight into the experiences of those who grew up in Australia during huge political upheaval, war in a foreign land and the party, drug & carefree cultures of the 1960’s.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this accomplished author.
September 14, 2017
In 1965, 18 year old Poppy meets a beautiful boy named Ben on a Sydney train. Poppy is instantly besotted with him,but disappointed when Ben begins dating Poppy's arch nemesis Barbara. Barbara and her squad have always made Barbara and her twin sister Rosemary, feel like wallflowers, teasing them mercilessly throughout their high-school years.
Ben's life is all planned out for him. Become an officer, be sent to Vietnam, and if he makes it back alive, he'll follow in his fathers footsteps and become a lawyer. It's not what he wants, but he feels the weight of his parents expectations.
Poppy, Ben and Rosemary all find themselves on an end of year trip to Surfers Paradise. And there, Ben realises what a fool he's been. Dating shallow Barbara, when what he really wanted has been under his nose this whole time, in the form of the girl he talks to on the train.
But despite their connection, Ben is not free to start up a relationship. He leaves for Officer training the next week, and then the war in Vietnam. Poppy swears she'll wait for him, and for the first time, Ben begins to look forward to his future.
But of course, things are never as simple and straight forward as a couple of teenagers in love think they'll be. And so begins a pretty epic tale, that follows multiple storylines, through the 60's and the years beyond, across oceans, and into a war.
I enjoyed the unique storyline, and Mary-Anne O'Connor's writing style. She wove the different characters together beautifully, and each character felt like a friend very early on. I loved the 60's settings and getting a glimpse into the horrific Vietnam War. But the story moved too slowly for me to be completely invested.
But while it wasn't completely my cup of tea, I would still recommend this book if you think you'd enjoy a love story set against the backdrop of Australia in the 60's and the Vietnam War.
Ben's life is all planned out for him. Become an officer, be sent to Vietnam, and if he makes it back alive, he'll follow in his fathers footsteps and become a lawyer. It's not what he wants, but he feels the weight of his parents expectations.
Poppy, Ben and Rosemary all find themselves on an end of year trip to Surfers Paradise. And there, Ben realises what a fool he's been. Dating shallow Barbara, when what he really wanted has been under his nose this whole time, in the form of the girl he talks to on the train.
But despite their connection, Ben is not free to start up a relationship. He leaves for Officer training the next week, and then the war in Vietnam. Poppy swears she'll wait for him, and for the first time, Ben begins to look forward to his future.
But of course, things are never as simple and straight forward as a couple of teenagers in love think they'll be. And so begins a pretty epic tale, that follows multiple storylines, through the 60's and the years beyond, across oceans, and into a war.
I enjoyed the unique storyline, and Mary-Anne O'Connor's writing style. She wove the different characters together beautifully, and each character felt like a friend very early on. I loved the 60's settings and getting a glimpse into the horrific Vietnam War. But the story moved too slowly for me to be completely invested.
But while it wasn't completely my cup of tea, I would still recommend this book if you think you'd enjoy a love story set against the backdrop of Australia in the 60's and the Vietnam War.
October 30, 2017
Original review posted at: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
War Flower is the third Mary-Anne O’Connor release, the third set against a backdrop of war and the second I have read. The more of her work I read, the more I know I need to go back and read Gallipolli Street. The books are all stand alone but tied together by the common theme of war, and they progress through wars. Gallipolli Street was a tale of the ANZACS, Worth Fighting For is set in World War II and War Flower is set in the late 1960s against a backdrop of the Vietnam War.
Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary have quite strict parents and so they are quite sheltered in their girls school, and it makes them a target for the popular girls. The teenage girl dynamic is timeless and well written, regardless of the generation this is an age old story. Of course the boy Poppy meets on the train one afternoon also catches the eye of one of the popular girls and the stage is set for the rivalry to escalate.
Ben Williamson is a popular boy with his life all planned out for him. The Williamson’s are a wealthy family with a deeply ingrained sense of family duty and high expectations, especially for Ben as he is a male set to continue the family name. He is set to finish school, join the armed forces to service his country for a set number of years and then return to for law school. Nowhere does that take into account Ben’s creative soul and artistic talents.
Involvement with the school band allows the twins a Surfers Paradise escape which finally sees them able to join in with their peers and embark on a secret new life.
Surfers Paradise is the place to be that summer; not only are the Flannery twins on the coast but also some of their friends, Ben Williamson has taken a holiday with his mates and a pair of brothers have trekked cross country in a rattly old vehicle all the way from Western Australia. This is the summer that sets the scene for a new way of life for all of them.
Conscription and the birthday lottery was a reality for the young men of the late sixties and we see some young Aussie’s number come up. Ben had always planned to do service for his country but that didn’t mean he wanted to serve on the front line.
Angus trekked the country from one side to the other only to be conscripted after embarking on a passionate love affair. We follow him to Vietnam and get a frontline look at life in the trenches.
O’Connor has written and insightful and well researched novel that explores the lives of the young men who were conscripted into service as well as what life was like in the sixties for those left behind. The protests, the political uprising, the drugs and the parties, and just how easily some people got swept up in that lifestyle and carried into addiction.
We follow our cast of leads through years of upheaval and turmoil, from the innocence of adolescence through war, addiction, betrayal and acceptance. An interesting look at a dark time in history. O’Connor’s characters are diverse, interesting and well developed; she created a cast of leads I connected with and wanted to see find a happy ending. Some of the secondary characters on the other hand, I couldn’t bring myself to hope they got a happy ending but what they deserved.
I am left wanting to go back and read Gallipolli Street, and I look forward to seeing what O’Connor has in store for us next.
As always a big thank you to Harlequin for supplying my copy for the Beauty and Lace Book Club.
War Flower is the third Mary-Anne O’Connor release, the third set against a backdrop of war and the second I have read. The more of her work I read, the more I know I need to go back and read Gallipolli Street. The books are all stand alone but tied together by the common theme of war, and they progress through wars. Gallipolli Street was a tale of the ANZACS, Worth Fighting For is set in World War II and War Flower is set in the late 1960s against a backdrop of the Vietnam War.
Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary have quite strict parents and so they are quite sheltered in their girls school, and it makes them a target for the popular girls. The teenage girl dynamic is timeless and well written, regardless of the generation this is an age old story. Of course the boy Poppy meets on the train one afternoon also catches the eye of one of the popular girls and the stage is set for the rivalry to escalate.
Ben Williamson is a popular boy with his life all planned out for him. The Williamson’s are a wealthy family with a deeply ingrained sense of family duty and high expectations, especially for Ben as he is a male set to continue the family name. He is set to finish school, join the armed forces to service his country for a set number of years and then return to for law school. Nowhere does that take into account Ben’s creative soul and artistic talents.
Involvement with the school band allows the twins a Surfers Paradise escape which finally sees them able to join in with their peers and embark on a secret new life.
Surfers Paradise is the place to be that summer; not only are the Flannery twins on the coast but also some of their friends, Ben Williamson has taken a holiday with his mates and a pair of brothers have trekked cross country in a rattly old vehicle all the way from Western Australia. This is the summer that sets the scene for a new way of life for all of them.
Conscription and the birthday lottery was a reality for the young men of the late sixties and we see some young Aussie’s number come up. Ben had always planned to do service for his country but that didn’t mean he wanted to serve on the front line.
Angus trekked the country from one side to the other only to be conscripted after embarking on a passionate love affair. We follow him to Vietnam and get a frontline look at life in the trenches.
O’Connor has written and insightful and well researched novel that explores the lives of the young men who were conscripted into service as well as what life was like in the sixties for those left behind. The protests, the political uprising, the drugs and the parties, and just how easily some people got swept up in that lifestyle and carried into addiction.
We follow our cast of leads through years of upheaval and turmoil, from the innocence of adolescence through war, addiction, betrayal and acceptance. An interesting look at a dark time in history. O’Connor’s characters are diverse, interesting and well developed; she created a cast of leads I connected with and wanted to see find a happy ending. Some of the secondary characters on the other hand, I couldn’t bring myself to hope they got a happy ending but what they deserved.
I am left wanting to go back and read Gallipolli Street, and I look forward to seeing what O’Connor has in store for us next.
As always a big thank you to Harlequin for supplying my copy for the Beauty and Lace Book Club.
July 5, 2019
I really, really wanted to like this book, but from the first page it just read like a bad fan fiction.
The characters were obvious stereotypes, the music mentions awkward, and the events non-realistic and sappy.
I found the events in Vietnam interesting, but felt even these needed work.
Angus was the only redeemable part of this story for me!
The characters were obvious stereotypes, the music mentions awkward, and the events non-realistic and sappy.
I found the events in Vietnam interesting, but felt even these needed work.
Angus was the only redeemable part of this story for me!
December 11, 2018
A beautiful book which is truly heart breaking and inspiring
April 1, 2022
Another absolutely amazing read from Mary-Anne, my fave Aussie author.
I laughed and I sure did cry buckets. You always hit the nail on the head with your powerful human emotions and incredible character building. I’m never disappointed reading your books. X
I laughed and I sure did cry buckets. You always hit the nail on the head with your powerful human emotions and incredible character building. I’m never disappointed reading your books. X
September 11, 2017
Set amongst the back-drop of the technicolour sixties, moving through the seventies all the way to the eighties. Revolving around the characters of Poppy Flannery, Ben Williamson and Angus Tanner. The story has multiple stories within that wove together in what was an attention grabbing story.
Ms O'Connor's third book is heartfelt and full of controversial moments.
Review copy received from Harlequin Australia via Netgalley
Ms O'Connor's third book is heartfelt and full of controversial moments.
Review copy received from Harlequin Australia via Netgalley
November 27, 2017
Thank you Beauty and Lace and Harlequin Books for the opportunity to read and review Mary-Anne O'Connor's book War Flower.
This is the first of O'Connor's books that I have read, but I am extremely impressed by her ability to accurately capture the period of which she writes.
War Flower is set in Sydney Australia in the mid to late 1960's early 1970's and follows the lives of twins Poppy and Rosemary as they move from their strict religious upbringing and catholic education to their first interactions with boys, the freedoms and drug culture of the period, and the impact of the Vietnam War on their young lives and the lives of those around them.
As well as the twins there are other important characters, the very gorgeous Ben Williamson targeted by the popular girls (especially Barbara, a girl you can easily grow to hate) who only has eyes for Poppy, and wants to be an artist, but is governed by the family expectation that Williamson's go to Officer training, become lawyers and marry well. Angus and Spike, West Australian brothers who decide to travel across Australia in a beaten up old car with a flatulent dog in the back to go surfing at Surfers Paradise in Queensland and Thuy, a your Vietnamese woman who comes to Australia after her entire family is killed by the Viet Cong.
The Vietnam war in many ways was a turning point for Australia, whereas in the World Wars there was a feeling of pride in the soldiers who signed up to fight, and they were treated as hero's on their return the experience of the Vietnam vets was very different. The Vietnam war was very much seen as a war that Australian's should not be involved in and this was reflected in the Birthday Lottery where young men were conscripted to the army based on their birthday being pulled in the lottery draft. Despite large numbers of men going to fight in Vietnam against their wishes, returning soldiers were often reviled by the extensive peace movement that grew up during this period. O'Connor accurately paints the horrors endured by the troops in the jungles, the drug fueled socialist philosophy driven peace movement and the difficulties experienced by men returning from their time in Vietnam.
This is a very well written book about the period, the characters all have great depth, and as someone who was around during this period it triggered many memories and emotions.
Highly recommended.
This is the first of O'Connor's books that I have read, but I am extremely impressed by her ability to accurately capture the period of which she writes.
War Flower is set in Sydney Australia in the mid to late 1960's early 1970's and follows the lives of twins Poppy and Rosemary as they move from their strict religious upbringing and catholic education to their first interactions with boys, the freedoms and drug culture of the period, and the impact of the Vietnam War on their young lives and the lives of those around them.
As well as the twins there are other important characters, the very gorgeous Ben Williamson targeted by the popular girls (especially Barbara, a girl you can easily grow to hate) who only has eyes for Poppy, and wants to be an artist, but is governed by the family expectation that Williamson's go to Officer training, become lawyers and marry well. Angus and Spike, West Australian brothers who decide to travel across Australia in a beaten up old car with a flatulent dog in the back to go surfing at Surfers Paradise in Queensland and Thuy, a your Vietnamese woman who comes to Australia after her entire family is killed by the Viet Cong.
The Vietnam war in many ways was a turning point for Australia, whereas in the World Wars there was a feeling of pride in the soldiers who signed up to fight, and they were treated as hero's on their return the experience of the Vietnam vets was very different. The Vietnam war was very much seen as a war that Australian's should not be involved in and this was reflected in the Birthday Lottery where young men were conscripted to the army based on their birthday being pulled in the lottery draft. Despite large numbers of men going to fight in Vietnam against their wishes, returning soldiers were often reviled by the extensive peace movement that grew up during this period. O'Connor accurately paints the horrors endured by the troops in the jungles, the drug fueled socialist philosophy driven peace movement and the difficulties experienced by men returning from their time in Vietnam.
This is a very well written book about the period, the characters all have great depth, and as someone who was around during this period it triggered many memories and emotions.
Highly recommended.
December 4, 2020
Blurb from web: Set against the colourful backdrop of a swinging sixties Sydney and the brutality of the Vietnam War, War Flower follows the journey of six young people through their lives in a turbulent era, and asks - can love still prevail when horror becomes almost too much to bear?
Can love prevail, when horror becomes too much to bear?
The 1960s are beating a fresh pulse of political and cultural upheaval through Sydney. For sheltered convent schoolgirl Poppy Flannery such changes seem irrelevant. But it doesn't stop her from longing to join in, especially if it means spending time with the popular boy she secretly loves, Ben Williamson. So when the opportunity for a dream escape to Surfers Paradise arrives, Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary seize it and find themselves in the midst of the swinging sixties at last.
Rosemary embraces their secret new life with a vengeance, discovering drugs, boys and radical politics in a haze of parties, music festivals and protest marches. But such freedom is stolen when Rosemary's great love, Angus, is sent to Vietnam, along with Ben.
Soon a war fought thousands of kilometres away will arrive on the twins' door in the form of orphaned refugee Thuy. As many more victims begin to appear, including shattered versions of Australian soldiers, they must decide how far they will go for the men they adore, and ask themselves whether love really is all you need.
My review
Found the writing flowery which made for wooden characters. What is frustrating is the author is quite good at the war writing, but the romance is too much, too nauseating. I have read her other 2 books which felt the same, but not sure I can do it again.
Can love prevail, when horror becomes too much to bear?
The 1960s are beating a fresh pulse of political and cultural upheaval through Sydney. For sheltered convent schoolgirl Poppy Flannery such changes seem irrelevant. But it doesn't stop her from longing to join in, especially if it means spending time with the popular boy she secretly loves, Ben Williamson. So when the opportunity for a dream escape to Surfers Paradise arrives, Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary seize it and find themselves in the midst of the swinging sixties at last.
Rosemary embraces their secret new life with a vengeance, discovering drugs, boys and radical politics in a haze of parties, music festivals and protest marches. But such freedom is stolen when Rosemary's great love, Angus, is sent to Vietnam, along with Ben.
Soon a war fought thousands of kilometres away will arrive on the twins' door in the form of orphaned refugee Thuy. As many more victims begin to appear, including shattered versions of Australian soldiers, they must decide how far they will go for the men they adore, and ask themselves whether love really is all you need.
My review
Found the writing flowery which made for wooden characters. What is frustrating is the author is quite good at the war writing, but the romance is too much, too nauseating. I have read her other 2 books which felt the same, but not sure I can do it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2018
War Flower was a pleasant surprise for me. Not my typical read at all but it certainly hit the spot for a bit of holiday reading. Set in the backdrop of 1960's Sydney we meet Poppy and her twin sister Rosemary, finishing up high school and embarking on a new journey of university and flourishing with new-found freedom from their strict parents, starting with a trip to Queensland. Boys, politics, drugs and parties the girl fins themselves in a different world and loving life. Until the Vietnam war affects both their lives with Rosemary' boyfriend Angus and Poppy's love from a far Ben are both sent to serve in the war.
This novel starts as a historical romance with the reader watching the twins grow up from quiet wall flowers to finding love and for some, losing it. I found myself way too wrapped up in the twin's romances (particularly Poppy's) from the very beginning and settled myself in for something corny and predictable (in the best possible way). Instead the novel flourished into something much more. War Flower ended up touching on so many relevant issues of the time, ranging from the Vietnam War and PTSD post-service, the raging sixties that was preoccupied with drugs and politics and the strict expectations of the day often coming from parents. This novel ended up being much more than a fluffy beach romance and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of reading it.
A very surprising and consuming read I finished it in a day. The characters were compelling, some of them walking very different paths to what you expected. War Flower gives the reader a great insight into Australia in the sixties and the effect the Vietnam War had across the country. I would highly recommend this one and wouldn't hesitate to try the author's previous novels or any future work. Don't take this one at face value and give it a shot, you won't regret it.
This novel starts as a historical romance with the reader watching the twins grow up from quiet wall flowers to finding love and for some, losing it. I found myself way too wrapped up in the twin's romances (particularly Poppy's) from the very beginning and settled myself in for something corny and predictable (in the best possible way). Instead the novel flourished into something much more. War Flower ended up touching on so many relevant issues of the time, ranging from the Vietnam War and PTSD post-service, the raging sixties that was preoccupied with drugs and politics and the strict expectations of the day often coming from parents. This novel ended up being much more than a fluffy beach romance and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of reading it.
A very surprising and consuming read I finished it in a day. The characters were compelling, some of them walking very different paths to what you expected. War Flower gives the reader a great insight into Australia in the sixties and the effect the Vietnam War had across the country. I would highly recommend this one and wouldn't hesitate to try the author's previous novels or any future work. Don't take this one at face value and give it a shot, you won't regret it.
September 24, 2019
After reading two other books by the author that I have deemed two of the best books in my collection I was extremely excited to finally get my hands on War Flower.
While I can’t say it was my favourite, I can say it was very well written in Mary-Anne O’Connor’s style that I love.
The story gives a wonderful insight into Australian life during the Vietnam war through the eyes of both citizens and soldiers.
Horrors endured in Vietnam brought hardships and sorrow to returning soldiers and although this book is essentially a love story, the author has managed to add insightful and factual details to the reader of the Vietnam war.
War Flower is a must read for anyone interested in this era of Australian history.
While I can’t say it was my favourite, I can say it was very well written in Mary-Anne O’Connor’s style that I love.
The story gives a wonderful insight into Australian life during the Vietnam war through the eyes of both citizens and soldiers.
Horrors endured in Vietnam brought hardships and sorrow to returning soldiers and although this book is essentially a love story, the author has managed to add insightful and factual details to the reader of the Vietnam war.
War Flower is a must read for anyone interested in this era of Australian history.
October 22, 2017
4.5* A great story of love and war, of hopes, dreams and responsibilities. This story was a journey from innocence to the harsh realities of life and love and the beauty and heartache that can be experienced. Following the characters from Sydney and to the Vietnam war and the relationships that form and change through the experiences each live and the decisions they make. This was a book that I really enjoyed with real characters, ones you like and ones you don't like so much. Each played their part and some tugged at the heartstrings. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia and Netgalley for a copy for an honest review
Thanks to Harlequin Australia and Netgalley for a copy for an honest review
November 15, 2018
This was a surprisingly good listen and a good book. I have been a bit hesitant recently about reading war books lately but I thought I would give it a go. Something just tugged me towards opening up this book and I am glad I did. This was also my first Vietnam War book and it wasn't too bad on the recounting of the events and actions on war.
I find that the book started off strong but my interest faded in the middle, then peaked a bit... then faded again. The ending was not what I expected or wanted but it makes sense to the plot.
I actually enjoyed hearing about the events in Sydney Australia in the 60's and how the youth lived their lives.
I find that the book started off strong but my interest faded in the middle, then peaked a bit... then faded again. The ending was not what I expected or wanted but it makes sense to the plot.
I actually enjoyed hearing about the events in Sydney Australia in the 60's and how the youth lived their lives.
October 17, 2017
Even though I only rated this one a 3, I would still recommend it and must say I did enjoy it.
It read a bit like a melodramatic episode of Home and Away, set in 1960's Australia, and war-torn Vietnam- but that is exactly the kind of book I was in the mood to read.
The impact of the war is felt heavier in the second half of the book, where the story progresses on from it's main love triangle and onto the darker themes of the impacts of war on the human psyche.
If you want a 'light summers read' with the back drop of the Vietnam war, then I would recommend this book.
It read a bit like a melodramatic episode of Home and Away, set in 1960's Australia, and war-torn Vietnam- but that is exactly the kind of book I was in the mood to read.
The impact of the war is felt heavier in the second half of the book, where the story progresses on from it's main love triangle and onto the darker themes of the impacts of war on the human psyche.
If you want a 'light summers read' with the back drop of the Vietnam war, then I would recommend this book.
December 30, 2017
A great love and war story set in Sydney & Vietnam as we follow the twins Poppy and Rosemary in their journey from innocent Catholic School girls and finding their paths in life through the 60’s, 70’s and into the 80’s. I enjoyed this story from not only the sisters, but their boyfriends also from meeting the girls and then in the Vietnam War. This is a heartfelt read with a climatic ending with characters that you just love. Great read…….
December 23, 2017
Thank you to Harlequin Books Australia for sending me a copy of this beautiful story to read and review. I will definitely be reading more from the author in future! Mary-Anne O'Connor's historical fiction novel 'War Flower' follows the emotional whirlwind of the Vietnam War. I particularly loved the way O'Connor tracks the journey of not just the soldiers but also the women waiting at home for their return. I found the story very easy to fall into! Highly recommended for a summer read!
January 4, 2018
This story is set in the 1960's during the Vietnam war and is told from the perspective of a few different characters. Twin sisters Poppy and Rosemary Flannery have just finished school and take a school trip to Surfers Paradise where they both fall in love. Sadly both of their guys are soon off to fight in the war and the story that follows is one of both joy and sadness.
This is my first book by Mary-Anne O'Connor and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend this book.
This is my first book by Mary-Anne O'Connor and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend this book.
May 26, 2019
Mary-Anne O'Connor has done a great job of showing the different aspects of the Vietnam war and life in the sixties. Believable characters who the reader comes to care about and realism about the war and drug problems. She has conveyed the optimism of the time , as well as the inate conservatism of Australia. I particularly enjoyed the stories around the twins, from their nerdish girl experience to women of the world. A wonderful Australian novel.
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February 22, 2025Five out of five.
A fantastic and well-researched Vietnam War-era saga set both in Vietnam and back in Australia. Compelling characters, and a story that sweeps you along, through triumph and heartbreak. I realise Mary-Anne O'Connor's work (which is consistently brilliant) is mostly aimed at females, but her excellent historical fiction deserves to be marketed to a much wider audience. Very glad I stumbled across her work.
A fantastic and well-researched Vietnam War-era saga set both in Vietnam and back in Australia. Compelling characters, and a story that sweeps you along, through triumph and heartbreak. I realise Mary-Anne O'Connor's work (which is consistently brilliant) is mostly aimed at females, but her excellent historical fiction deserves to be marketed to a much wider audience. Very glad I stumbled across her work.
July 9, 2018
'War Flower' by Mary-Anne O'Connor is a welcome addition to Australian war fiction. It weaves its way from a teenage romance, through the political climate of 1960s Australia, to the war-ravaged jungles of Vietnam and back to Australia to explore the damage done to the young conscripts. Well told and honest.
March 12, 2022
This is a a story about love and forgiveness, about happiness and sorrow.
This story is told by many different characters, so not just one point of view.
Centred around the Vietnam War, we follow two sisters as they find love, and the journey they take during this time.
A great read if you are after historical and or romance.
This story is told by many different characters, so not just one point of view.
Centred around the Vietnam War, we follow two sisters as they find love, and the journey they take during this time.
A great read if you are after historical and or romance.
December 18, 2024
This book is magic. Raw, unfiltered magic. Sometimes brutal, sometimes dark but always beautiful. This book is the definition of true love, patience, forgiveness and strength. From Sydney to the battlefields of Vietnam, this novel does not shy away from the pain and trauma of war, rather it presents it to the reader with a realness that is honest and true. Unforgettable.
February 26, 2018
An interesting read and a reflection on the 60"s and 70's in Australia. The integration of a Vietnamese refugee into Australian society could have been better handled. Migrants who can use English contractions also speak excellent English.
November 4, 2020
Excellent novel. Beautiful clear imagery; strong and vibrant characters. Powerful emotions and topics. Bound together with an exciting; fast flowing narrative that endears you to the struggle, journey and revelations of each character.
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