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The Whispers of War
The start of World War II looms over three friends who struggle to remain loyal as one of them is threatened with internment by the British government, from the author of the “sweeping, stirring” (Kristin Harmel, internationally bestselling author of
The Room on Rue Amélie
) The Light Over London.
In August of 1939, as Britain watches the headlines in fear of another devastating war with Germany, three childhood friends must choose between friendship or country. Erstwhile socialite Nora is determined to find her place in the Home Office’s Air Raid Precautions Department, matchmaker Hazel tries to mask two closely guarded secrets with irrepressible optimism, and German expat Marie worries that she and her family might face imprisonment in an internment camp if war is declared. When Germany invades Poland and tensions on the home front rise, Marie is labeled an enemy alien, and the three friends find themselves fighting together to keep her free at any cost.
Featuring Julia Kelly’s signature “intricate, tender, and convincing” (Publishers Weekly) prose, The Whispers of War is a moving and unforgettable tale of the power of friendship and womanhood in the midst of conflict.
In August of 1939, as Britain watches the headlines in fear of another devastating war with Germany, three childhood friends must choose between friendship or country. Erstwhile socialite Nora is determined to find her place in the Home Office’s Air Raid Precautions Department, matchmaker Hazel tries to mask two closely guarded secrets with irrepressible optimism, and German expat Marie worries that she and her family might face imprisonment in an internment camp if war is declared. When Germany invades Poland and tensions on the home front rise, Marie is labeled an enemy alien, and the three friends find themselves fighting together to keep her free at any cost.
Featuring Julia Kelly’s signature “intricate, tender, and convincing” (Publishers Weekly) prose, The Whispers of War is a moving and unforgettable tale of the power of friendship and womanhood in the midst of conflict.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 14, 2020
1022 people are currently reading
25543 people want to read
About the author
Julia Kelly
22 books2,513 followersJulia Kelly is the international bestselling author of historical fiction and historical mystery novels about the extraordinary stories of the past. Her books have been translated into 13 languages. In addition to writing, she’s been an Emmy-nominated producer, journalist, marketing professional, and (for one summer) a tea waitress. Julia has called Los Angeles, Iowa, and New York City home. She now lives in London with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 806 reviews
January 16, 2020
***NOW AVAILABLE***
Historical fiction is my favorite genre so when I saw that this book discussed internment camps in England during WWII I was very interested. I have read extensively about internment camps in the United States but didn’t know that they existed in England.
The story takes place in the present and past. In the present we meet Samantha who has come to England from Chicago to meet her grandmother’s great friend Nora. In her grandmother’s will she specifically asked that Samantha deliver the eulogy and that she hand deliver a package to Nora.We begin to learn the main story as it is told to Samantha.
As described in the blurb the story revolves around three very close friends in England before and during the beginning of WWII. Nora is a socialite who prefers working than attending debutante balls and socials, she works in the Ministry of Home Security in the Home Office. She has her own home through funds left to her by her father who passed away.
Marie is German born but has been in England since she was 12, first at boarding school and then living with her aunt and uncle whom she loves deeply. They gave her the home and love that Marie so needed as her own parents were quite cold towards her. She rarely visited them in Germany being told often to just stay in England for the holidays, etc. She works in the German department of the University, secretary to Herr Gunter the department chair. This is the perfect fit for her being fluent in German.
Hazel works for a matchmaking service founded by Lady Moreton. They work carefully and discreetly matching women with men with similar interests, etc. All initial connections are made through the agency.
The three friends have been stayed close since boarding school and meet every week for Friday night dinners.
When the first rumors or war begin, people remember and talk about the fact that Germans and others were sent to internment camps during WWI as a precaution against any spies or anti-British movements. When Hitler’s armies begin to move towards France the British government requires all Germans living in Britain to come before a tribunal and then they are classified as to their threat to the government.
I don’t want to give away any of the plot but there are some interesting twists that are surprising and require Nora and Hazel to fight for Marie’s freedom.
This author has a way of “telling” rather than “showing” what is happening. There is talk about the internment camps but there is no description of the condition of these camps and what it was like to live in them. No one living in one is ever discussed in any detail. We never got to that point in the story. I found this disappointing as I didn’t really learn anything about the camps except what I read in the author’s notes, which were informative.
There is a romance that takes place in the present time between Samantha and Nora’s grandson which seemed contrived and not very believable. In the past there is a budding romance between Marie and Richard, a widow whom Hazel had “matched” to Marie. Everything just turns out too “neat, tidy and happy” for me to feel it could be real. I might be a little too cynical but things don’t usually turn out so perfectly in the real world.
I think this is a good story which I would classify as a story of friendship,romance and what family means to different people, with a historical background. It was easy to read and the past and present flowed well together.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
The novel is set to publish in January 2020.
Historical fiction is my favorite genre so when I saw that this book discussed internment camps in England during WWII I was very interested. I have read extensively about internment camps in the United States but didn’t know that they existed in England.
The story takes place in the present and past. In the present we meet Samantha who has come to England from Chicago to meet her grandmother’s great friend Nora. In her grandmother’s will she specifically asked that Samantha deliver the eulogy and that she hand deliver a package to Nora.We begin to learn the main story as it is told to Samantha.
As described in the blurb the story revolves around three very close friends in England before and during the beginning of WWII. Nora is a socialite who prefers working than attending debutante balls and socials, she works in the Ministry of Home Security in the Home Office. She has her own home through funds left to her by her father who passed away.
Marie is German born but has been in England since she was 12, first at boarding school and then living with her aunt and uncle whom she loves deeply. They gave her the home and love that Marie so needed as her own parents were quite cold towards her. She rarely visited them in Germany being told often to just stay in England for the holidays, etc. She works in the German department of the University, secretary to Herr Gunter the department chair. This is the perfect fit for her being fluent in German.
Hazel works for a matchmaking service founded by Lady Moreton. They work carefully and discreetly matching women with men with similar interests, etc. All initial connections are made through the agency.
The three friends have been stayed close since boarding school and meet every week for Friday night dinners.
When the first rumors or war begin, people remember and talk about the fact that Germans and others were sent to internment camps during WWI as a precaution against any spies or anti-British movements. When Hitler’s armies begin to move towards France the British government requires all Germans living in Britain to come before a tribunal and then they are classified as to their threat to the government.
I don’t want to give away any of the plot but there are some interesting twists that are surprising and require Nora and Hazel to fight for Marie’s freedom.
This author has a way of “telling” rather than “showing” what is happening. There is talk about the internment camps but there is no description of the condition of these camps and what it was like to live in them. No one living in one is ever discussed in any detail. We never got to that point in the story. I found this disappointing as I didn’t really learn anything about the camps except what I read in the author’s notes, which were informative.
There is a romance that takes place in the present time between Samantha and Nora’s grandson which seemed contrived and not very believable. In the past there is a budding romance between Marie and Richard, a widow whom Hazel had “matched” to Marie. Everything just turns out too “neat, tidy and happy” for me to feel it could be real. I might be a little too cynical but things don’t usually turn out so perfectly in the real world.
I think this is a good story which I would classify as a story of friendship,romance and what family means to different people, with a historical background. It was easy to read and the past and present flowed well together.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
The novel is set to publish in January 2020.
December 18, 2019
The title explains the book; it is quite literally chatter about the war. There is a lot of dialogue and conversation among the three friends about war coming. There is nothing militaristic except a few mentions of a blackout, and the details of the Jews suffering is negated. The synopsis mentions internment camps. But again the internment camps is only chatter among the friends and it never goes beyond their conversation.
The plot itself transpires around the social transformations during 1939 and 1940 for the three friends Marie, Nora, and Hazel. With various backgrounds, the main drama ensues around Marie who is of German descent living in Britain. Marie is painted as the victim of anti-German sentiments during the onset of WWII. The friends circle around Marie to provide support while politics begin to intrude the homes of Britain and divide families.
I found the dual timeline unnecessary. Samantha (now/present) is to deliver her grandmother's eulogy, so she travels from America to Britain to visit with her grandmother's friend, Nora, in order to learn more about her grandmother (Marie) so that she can write a proper eulogy. There isn't any puzzle piecing involved with the dual timeline.
Overall, this was an okay read and is 2.5 stars for me. It was a lot of talking and not a lot of happening. There was also plenty of romance, which I don't mind, but I didn't find it very pertinent to the storyline.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions are my own.
The plot itself transpires around the social transformations during 1939 and 1940 for the three friends Marie, Nora, and Hazel. With various backgrounds, the main drama ensues around Marie who is of German descent living in Britain. Marie is painted as the victim of anti-German sentiments during the onset of WWII. The friends circle around Marie to provide support while politics begin to intrude the homes of Britain and divide families.
I found the dual timeline unnecessary. Samantha (now/present) is to deliver her grandmother's eulogy, so she travels from America to Britain to visit with her grandmother's friend, Nora, in order to learn more about her grandmother (Marie) so that she can write a proper eulogy. There isn't any puzzle piecing involved with the dual timeline.
Overall, this was an okay read and is 2.5 stars for me. It was a lot of talking and not a lot of happening. There was also plenty of romance, which I don't mind, but I didn't find it very pertinent to the storyline.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions are my own.
November 28, 2019
This was a pretty easy and straight forward read for me. I read, Julia Kelly's last novel, "The Light Over London" and enjoyed it very much. This one had a nice and interesting premise but fell a little flat for me.
I liked that there were 3 strong women in the story. Their friendship was honest and true. The story had a dual timeline with past and present. In the present Samantha's Grandmother has died and she needs to travel back to England to give back a box to her Grandmother's friend. Once she arrives her Grandmother's friend begins to tell the story of their friendship and what happened to them all during WWII in England.
I felt that the story lacked some depth. The present day story was only 3 chapters at the ending of each of the friend's past story. I felt like the ending needed some more closure on all the friend's lives.
Still a pretty easy book that flowed well from chapter to chapter. Just a little bit light for wartime.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for granting me access to this Advanced Reader Copy.
I liked that there were 3 strong women in the story. Their friendship was honest and true. The story had a dual timeline with past and present. In the present Samantha's Grandmother has died and she needs to travel back to England to give back a box to her Grandmother's friend. Once she arrives her Grandmother's friend begins to tell the story of their friendship and what happened to them all during WWII in England.
I felt that the story lacked some depth. The present day story was only 3 chapters at the ending of each of the friend's past story. I felt like the ending needed some more closure on all the friend's lives.
Still a pretty easy book that flowed well from chapter to chapter. Just a little bit light for wartime.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for granting me access to this Advanced Reader Copy.
January 22, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon&Shuster Canada for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
After enjoying The Light Over London in 2019, I knew that I couldn't wait to get my hands on Julia Kelly's latest. In this dual historical timeline, Samantha journeys from Chicago to England to visit Nora, an old friend of her recently deceased grandmother, Marie. With a memorial in the making, Samantha wants to learn about grandmother Marie's life during WWII. Nora, with the assistance of her grandson, Daniel, unfolds the tale of Marie, Nora, and their best friend, Hazel. Marie, German-born and having lived with her Uncle, Aunt, and cousin for many years soon finds her very life threatened. Hazel, a successful matchmaker fears her marriage is falling apart, and Nora enjoys her life as an independent woman with a house and a job in the Home Office. There are surprising twists and turns regarding what these three women endure during wartime was fascinating and I read this story in one sitting.
The friendship between the three women is certainly the central point of the narrative and is infused with intrigue, romance, and specific concentration on how Germans or people of German origin living in Britain were now seen as "foreign aliens" and were placed in internment camps. Although the author doesn't take us to an internment camp, the conversations of the characters capture the fear associated with Marie being sent there. I knew a little about this history as there actually was an internment camp near the town of Minto, NB( Canada) for German and Austrians( most of them Jewish refugees) who were suspected of being spies. Hopefully, this book will serve as a diving board for readers to look more into this forgotten piece of WWII history.
Goodreads review published 22/01/20
Publication Date 14/01/20
After enjoying The Light Over London in 2019, I knew that I couldn't wait to get my hands on Julia Kelly's latest. In this dual historical timeline, Samantha journeys from Chicago to England to visit Nora, an old friend of her recently deceased grandmother, Marie. With a memorial in the making, Samantha wants to learn about grandmother Marie's life during WWII. Nora, with the assistance of her grandson, Daniel, unfolds the tale of Marie, Nora, and their best friend, Hazel. Marie, German-born and having lived with her Uncle, Aunt, and cousin for many years soon finds her very life threatened. Hazel, a successful matchmaker fears her marriage is falling apart, and Nora enjoys her life as an independent woman with a house and a job in the Home Office. There are surprising twists and turns regarding what these three women endure during wartime was fascinating and I read this story in one sitting.
The friendship between the three women is certainly the central point of the narrative and is infused with intrigue, romance, and specific concentration on how Germans or people of German origin living in Britain were now seen as "foreign aliens" and were placed in internment camps. Although the author doesn't take us to an internment camp, the conversations of the characters capture the fear associated with Marie being sent there. I knew a little about this history as there actually was an internment camp near the town of Minto, NB( Canada) for German and Austrians( most of them Jewish refugees) who were suspected of being spies. Hopefully, this book will serve as a diving board for readers to look more into this forgotten piece of WWII history.
Goodreads review published 22/01/20
Publication Date 14/01/20
June 12, 2020
It’ll never cease amaze me how many unique, important and touching stories there are to tell in history. Particularly those stories of women in WWII strike me hardest. Their bravery, determination, and pride were second to none as most volunteered to help in any way possible before conscription happened in Britain.
The Whispers of War surprised me as it's not as sad as most WWII stories are. Julia Kelly brings us a touching, moving and brilliant story of the bonds of friendship and love.
Female Friendship
It's so nice to read a book where the women aren't always competing, at each others throats, or out to get each other. I know that it's rare in real life to find the kind of friendship Kelly describes between her three main characters in The Whispers of War; but it does exist. It's so heartwarming to be reminded that people usually intend to be good; sometimes they fall the wayside and don't even realize it. I love how the tensions of the friendship ebb and flow throughout the story.
Past to Present
As with the majority of historical figure these days, this book does flip between the WWII timeline and present day. However unlike many other books set like this the present story isn't near as relevant, and not the bulk of the novel. Kelly has done a good job of keeping us in the past with the occasional snippet to the future so that we can stay 'in the story' but also understand some of the repercussions of choices our characters made 60+ years before present day. It felt understood throughout the book that the reader really only cares about the past and so keeping the focus there worked really nicely for me.
Internment Camps and Refuge
I will confess I am very proud to read this as a Canadian. To know that we offered even one person refuge from the Nazi's is really powerful to me. Canada however is not a country without many transgressions, including our own internment camps during WWII (primarily against the Japanese); and so if you approach the end of this book and think my country is 'so great, rah, rah' (while I want to be proud of that) I would caution you that the events in Britain and elsewhere in Europe of internment and prejudice absolutely did and do still happen in Canada (sadly). No country has a clean slate; there are always skeletons in the closet.
That said it must also be acknowledged that the persecution that much of The Whispers of War focuses on in Britain is sad, frustrating and all too true. You might come away being disgusted by some of the actions of Europeans and their governments. I caution you to remember that these were extraordinary times and people were merely trying to keep folks safe. The same way that today we are engaged in extraordinary times with the covid pandemic and we can only hope that humanity of the future understands that we didn't have all the information and were just reacting as best we could most of the time.
Overall
Not unlike The Paris SeamstressThe Paris Seamstress this is a good 'mostly positive' WWII book. It has less death, rape, torture, etc. than books like The Tattooist of AuschwitzTattooist of Auschwitz; and it focuses more on the girls relationships and thoughts which is easier to relate to. This is a historical fiction novel that I would definitely recommend to someone like my Mom. She likes historical novels but struggles sometimes with really gruesome events or descriptions. That's not to say that we ignore any of those awful things that certainly did happen; but a variety of novels that differ in pacing and descriptive content is always smart as it allows these stories to be accessible to more people. Otherwise some people wouldn't ever read a war time book because they can't handle the content.
For me, in the end, The Whispers of War is a must add to my growing WWII physical book collection. As always this is the highest praise I can give a book.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
The Whispers of War surprised me as it's not as sad as most WWII stories are. Julia Kelly brings us a touching, moving and brilliant story of the bonds of friendship and love.
Female Friendship
It's so nice to read a book where the women aren't always competing, at each others throats, or out to get each other. I know that it's rare in real life to find the kind of friendship Kelly describes between her three main characters in The Whispers of War; but it does exist. It's so heartwarming to be reminded that people usually intend to be good; sometimes they fall the wayside and don't even realize it. I love how the tensions of the friendship ebb and flow throughout the story.
Past to Present
As with the majority of historical figure these days, this book does flip between the WWII timeline and present day. However unlike many other books set like this the present story isn't near as relevant, and not the bulk of the novel. Kelly has done a good job of keeping us in the past with the occasional snippet to the future so that we can stay 'in the story' but also understand some of the repercussions of choices our characters made 60+ years before present day. It felt understood throughout the book that the reader really only cares about the past and so keeping the focus there worked really nicely for me.
Internment Camps and Refuge
I will confess I am very proud to read this as a Canadian. To know that we offered even one person refuge from the Nazi's is really powerful to me. Canada however is not a country without many transgressions, including our own internment camps during WWII (primarily against the Japanese); and so if you approach the end of this book and think my country is 'so great, rah, rah' (while I want to be proud of that) I would caution you that the events in Britain and elsewhere in Europe of internment and prejudice absolutely did and do still happen in Canada (sadly). No country has a clean slate; there are always skeletons in the closet.
That said it must also be acknowledged that the persecution that much of The Whispers of War focuses on in Britain is sad, frustrating and all too true. You might come away being disgusted by some of the actions of Europeans and their governments. I caution you to remember that these were extraordinary times and people were merely trying to keep folks safe. The same way that today we are engaged in extraordinary times with the covid pandemic and we can only hope that humanity of the future understands that we didn't have all the information and were just reacting as best we could most of the time.
Overall
Not unlike The Paris SeamstressThe Paris Seamstress this is a good 'mostly positive' WWII book. It has less death, rape, torture, etc. than books like The Tattooist of AuschwitzTattooist of Auschwitz; and it focuses more on the girls relationships and thoughts which is easier to relate to. This is a historical fiction novel that I would definitely recommend to someone like my Mom. She likes historical novels but struggles sometimes with really gruesome events or descriptions. That's not to say that we ignore any of those awful things that certainly did happen; but a variety of novels that differ in pacing and descriptive content is always smart as it allows these stories to be accessible to more people. Otherwise some people wouldn't ever read a war time book because they can't handle the content.
For me, in the end, The Whispers of War is a must add to my growing WWII physical book collection. As always this is the highest praise I can give a book.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
September 4, 2019
Reading this novel was both enjoyable and educational. The story of three devoted friends in WWII London and their trials and hardships during those turbulent years. Marie, Nora and Hazel are faced with the issues of being women during a time when women were considered inferior and incompetent.
Coupled with this was the extraordinary way in which German aliens were treated during the war. I had no idea that England had internment camps, similar to Japanese internment camps here in America. The fact that Marie was German drove the plot of the novel. The author has stirred together women’s issues, wartime politics, friendship and romance to create a very engaging novel.
I was totally immersed in the story, and I have spent some time researching the concept of internment camps. What could be more timely today than learning about people locked up for no reason except an accident of birth?
I think this book will be a perfect read for book groups and seminars in woman’s studies, WWII social history and will lead to discussions about the treatment of immigrants and aliens by our government.
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book and go on an unexpected journey.
Coupled with this was the extraordinary way in which German aliens were treated during the war. I had no idea that England had internment camps, similar to Japanese internment camps here in America. The fact that Marie was German drove the plot of the novel. The author has stirred together women’s issues, wartime politics, friendship and romance to create a very engaging novel.
I was totally immersed in the story, and I have spent some time researching the concept of internment camps. What could be more timely today than learning about people locked up for no reason except an accident of birth?
I think this book will be a perfect read for book groups and seminars in woman’s studies, WWII social history and will lead to discussions about the treatment of immigrants and aliens by our government.
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book and go on an unexpected journey.
April 10, 2021
Despite the subject matter, this is a fairly light read. The characters talk about internment camps and air raids, but apart from a couple of scenes, we don’t really get a sense of the danger they face. Rather, the focus is on the friendship between the women, and how having such a strong support system can help you survive even something as horrible as war.
January 1, 2022
Interesting
"The Whispers of War" was very creative. It built a story around the beginning of WWII and the reactions of the British population to ethnic groups, especially anyone connected the Germans or their Allies.
A very wonderful experience.
I recommend.
"The Whispers of War" was very creative. It built a story around the beginning of WWII and the reactions of the British population to ethnic groups, especially anyone connected the Germans or their Allies.
A very wonderful experience.
I recommend.
Want to read
June 16, 2022Thank you for shelving The Whispers of War!
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January 12, 2020
This historical novel set during World War II in London is my second book of 2020, and all I can say is Wow! Luckily I started reading this on the weekend, and I finished it in two days! This is the type of book which called to me when life interrupted my reading time, and I couldn’t wait to return to London, 1940, and the challenges faced by Hazel, Nora, Marie, and Samantha. Now I am suffering from a book hangover...trying to decide which book is next on the agenda.
But back to the novel. The main characters are three women who meet in boarding school when they are 12 and 13 years old. Thrown together in a dorm room, they have completely different backgrounds. Nora is the child of high society and wealth, an atmosphere in which she is a complete misfit. Hazel comes from a dalliance between a woman of questionable background and an unknown father, and Marie has been exiled to England from Germany by parents house interest in their daughter was negligible. The three girls form an extremely close friendship, a friendship which would survive through adolescence and adulthood, and emerge triumphant despite the challenges of failed relationships, family crises, and war and separation. “We‘ll always be...just us three.” These simple words would prove to be the ties that bound these women together, as Hazel, a professional matchmaker, and Nora, a secretary/office manager in the country’s Home Office Air Raid Precautions Department, will stop at nothing to help Marie avoid internment as England launches a policy of classifying and interning expatriates from Germany, Austria, and Italy. The novel focuses on the early days of the war between England and Germany, as the officials and the public begin to panic, fearing the possibility of invasion by the enemy, and viewing with suspicion people from Germany who had moved to England in order to escape difficulties and challenges. Just as they had done during the First World War, the policy makers again instituted classification and internment of these people. Similar to the internment of the Japanese in the United States, most of these expatriates were innocent victims and loyal to their adopted countries.
The novel is divided into sections, each section focuses on one of the three main characters. There are also segments which take place in the present day as Marie’s granddaughter meets Nora and tries to piece together elements of the grandmother she did not know well. All of these elements are woven seamlessly into a riveting, absorbing and emotional story of the triumph of the human spirit, loyalty, and courage, as well as the strength and perseverance of strong women. This was a fantastic way to begin my reading life of 2020! Highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction!
But back to the novel. The main characters are three women who meet in boarding school when they are 12 and 13 years old. Thrown together in a dorm room, they have completely different backgrounds. Nora is the child of high society and wealth, an atmosphere in which she is a complete misfit. Hazel comes from a dalliance between a woman of questionable background and an unknown father, and Marie has been exiled to England from Germany by parents house interest in their daughter was negligible. The three girls form an extremely close friendship, a friendship which would survive through adolescence and adulthood, and emerge triumphant despite the challenges of failed relationships, family crises, and war and separation. “We‘ll always be...just us three.” These simple words would prove to be the ties that bound these women together, as Hazel, a professional matchmaker, and Nora, a secretary/office manager in the country’s Home Office Air Raid Precautions Department, will stop at nothing to help Marie avoid internment as England launches a policy of classifying and interning expatriates from Germany, Austria, and Italy. The novel focuses on the early days of the war between England and Germany, as the officials and the public begin to panic, fearing the possibility of invasion by the enemy, and viewing with suspicion people from Germany who had moved to England in order to escape difficulties and challenges. Just as they had done during the First World War, the policy makers again instituted classification and internment of these people. Similar to the internment of the Japanese in the United States, most of these expatriates were innocent victims and loyal to their adopted countries.
The novel is divided into sections, each section focuses on one of the three main characters. There are also segments which take place in the present day as Marie’s granddaughter meets Nora and tries to piece together elements of the grandmother she did not know well. All of these elements are woven seamlessly into a riveting, absorbing and emotional story of the triumph of the human spirit, loyalty, and courage, as well as the strength and perseverance of strong women. This was a fantastic way to begin my reading life of 2020! Highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction!
February 21, 2021
I've read lots of novels that dealt with WW2 over the years but none of them had gripped me like this one had. I was totally hooked and I literally stayed up late into the night, reading, until my eyes were growing weary. And even then I really didn't want to put it down but I had to as I was too sleepy to read any more due to the late hour. And I hadn't expected this at all. The thing is this story was actually interesting! And I found myself caught up in the lives of the three young women living in London as the war was starting.
One thing I must admit was all of the previous WW2 books I have read had taken place in europe. This one was very different. It has a fresh look at the war, showing it from a different perspective. And I think that is a huge reason why I loved this book so much. It was showing new territory instead of going over the same old stuff.
And the characters!! I absolutely loved them! The three young ladies in here are very real and endearing. Each lady has a segment of the book from her perspective so you get to know each one in turn. And to my surprise it didn't bother me when they had switched (as it does in some books written in this manner). They all care deeply for each other and do the best they can. There are highs and lows...plus a few big surprises too. I must admit before reading this I actually had no idea how WW2 had affected England but this certainly has taught me a lot.
A lot of this story is about the unfairness of looking at certain people harshly just because of their nationality. Marie is German and she was born in Germany but she's been in England since she was twelve. I was shocked she had to go register at the police station each time she moved. Then the war starts. People start looking at her in strange ways. She's scared to use her voice, to say anything out in public, because of her German accent. Then there are talk of trials...just because you are German you have to go to a trial even if you didn't do anything. And there's whispers of camps too. Luckily Marie has her two best friends, Nora and Hazel to help her.
The end of this book made me cry, but it was happy tears.
And I love the beautiful cover on here! I especially love Hazel's green dress. And that's Marie sitting on the floor in the pink dress and Nora is walking away dressed smartly.
One thing I must admit was all of the previous WW2 books I have read had taken place in europe. This one was very different. It has a fresh look at the war, showing it from a different perspective. And I think that is a huge reason why I loved this book so much. It was showing new territory instead of going over the same old stuff.
And the characters!! I absolutely loved them! The three young ladies in here are very real and endearing. Each lady has a segment of the book from her perspective so you get to know each one in turn. And to my surprise it didn't bother me when they had switched (as it does in some books written in this manner). They all care deeply for each other and do the best they can. There are highs and lows...plus a few big surprises too. I must admit before reading this I actually had no idea how WW2 had affected England but this certainly has taught me a lot.
A lot of this story is about the unfairness of looking at certain people harshly just because of their nationality. Marie is German and she was born in Germany but she's been in England since she was twelve. I was shocked she had to go register at the police station each time she moved. Then the war starts. People start looking at her in strange ways. She's scared to use her voice, to say anything out in public, because of her German accent. Then there are talk of trials...just because you are German you have to go to a trial even if you didn't do anything. And there's whispers of camps too. Luckily Marie has her two best friends, Nora and Hazel to help her.
The end of this book made me cry, but it was happy tears.
And I love the beautiful cover on here! I especially love Hazel's green dress. And that's Marie sitting on the floor in the pink dress and Nora is walking away dressed smartly.
October 5, 2019
Wow! I’m speechless as to how amazing this book is!
Upon the death of her grandmother, Marie...Samantha is given not only the task of presenting her eulogy but returning a precious keepsake to one of her grandmothers oldest and best friends. As with many people who were affected by World War 2, Marie kept much of it from her family. She would occasionally tell Samantha to ask her about the war sometime but life always prevented Samantha from doing that, a major regret when it became too late.
When Samantha arrives in London to visit Marie’s dear friend Nora, a story was recounted that made Samantha question the grandmother she thought she had known so well. Marie was of German nationality and when she was a teenager, she was sent to a boarding school in England where she met Nora and the third member of their trio Hazel. Together the three would see each other through some very dark times.
This is where the historical stuff kicks in and it sure makes for an aspect of suspense in this book. When Germany invaded Poland, England gave them a deadline to back out or they would declare war. Well...we all know that war was declared. At the time, there were thousands of German and Austrian immigrants living in England, many wanting to start a new life after the devastation of the First World War. Regardless of their innocence, these alien residents were required to sit through tribunals and then be classified into one of three groups. Marie was forced to sit through her own tribunal, despite having lived in England since she was a child. Despite her innocence, her familial ties put her in a very tricky and dangerous and up in the air situation. Nora and Hazel vow to keep their friend safe and despite having issues in their own personal lives, the ladies always put each other first.
Without giving away spoilers because I want you all to pick up this book the minute it hits the shelf, this is an excellent book on the strength and bonds of friendship. True friends become family and even during a time of war, family sticks together. I was truly saddened to finish this story but it wrapped up so beautifully despite me selfishly wanting more.
A couple of things to keep in mind....it does jump back and forth between Marie, Nora and Hazel as well as briefly jumping into the present with Samantha. It flows beautifully so don’t let that keep you from reading. Also...it’s vital to read the authors notes. You’ll learn more about the historical aspect of things and I think it’s always important to understand where, why and how writers bring their work to life.
Two thumbs WAY up
Upon the death of her grandmother, Marie...Samantha is given not only the task of presenting her eulogy but returning a precious keepsake to one of her grandmothers oldest and best friends. As with many people who were affected by World War 2, Marie kept much of it from her family. She would occasionally tell Samantha to ask her about the war sometime but life always prevented Samantha from doing that, a major regret when it became too late.
When Samantha arrives in London to visit Marie’s dear friend Nora, a story was recounted that made Samantha question the grandmother she thought she had known so well. Marie was of German nationality and when she was a teenager, she was sent to a boarding school in England where she met Nora and the third member of their trio Hazel. Together the three would see each other through some very dark times.
This is where the historical stuff kicks in and it sure makes for an aspect of suspense in this book. When Germany invaded Poland, England gave them a deadline to back out or they would declare war. Well...we all know that war was declared. At the time, there were thousands of German and Austrian immigrants living in England, many wanting to start a new life after the devastation of the First World War. Regardless of their innocence, these alien residents were required to sit through tribunals and then be classified into one of three groups. Marie was forced to sit through her own tribunal, despite having lived in England since she was a child. Despite her innocence, her familial ties put her in a very tricky and dangerous and up in the air situation. Nora and Hazel vow to keep their friend safe and despite having issues in their own personal lives, the ladies always put each other first.
Without giving away spoilers because I want you all to pick up this book the minute it hits the shelf, this is an excellent book on the strength and bonds of friendship. True friends become family and even during a time of war, family sticks together. I was truly saddened to finish this story but it wrapped up so beautifully despite me selfishly wanting more.
A couple of things to keep in mind....it does jump back and forth between Marie, Nora and Hazel as well as briefly jumping into the present with Samantha. It flows beautifully so don’t let that keep you from reading. Also...it’s vital to read the authors notes. You’ll learn more about the historical aspect of things and I think it’s always important to understand where, why and how writers bring their work to life.
Two thumbs WAY up
May 30, 2020
RATING: 4 STARS
2020; Gallery Books/Simon & Schuster Canada
I really enjoyed Kelly's previous novel, The Light Over London. It was a novel that focused on the characters during WWII, than the war itself. I liked that there was romance but it was more about Louise's journey on being a Gunner Girl. I had said in my review that it wasn't the "epic WWII" novel like Lilac Girls, but still a great read. The Whispers of War is also more about the human side of war. Marie, Nora and Hazel have been friends since they met as children, and are still close as ever. Marie is originally from Germany, and still has her accent which stands her apart from her British friends. As Britain heads towards another war with Germany, their friendship will be put to the test.
The Whispers of War does have a contemporary timeline in the novel, but it is just a few chapters. The bulk of the story is set in the late thirties. Kelly is great at creating realistic endearing characters trying to survive in a time where everything seems to be put to the test. If you enjoy a good story, I recommend this one for you.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
2020; Gallery Books/Simon & Schuster Canada
I really enjoyed Kelly's previous novel, The Light Over London. It was a novel that focused on the characters during WWII, than the war itself. I liked that there was romance but it was more about Louise's journey on being a Gunner Girl. I had said in my review that it wasn't the "epic WWII" novel like Lilac Girls, but still a great read. The Whispers of War is also more about the human side of war. Marie, Nora and Hazel have been friends since they met as children, and are still close as ever. Marie is originally from Germany, and still has her accent which stands her apart from her British friends. As Britain heads towards another war with Germany, their friendship will be put to the test.
The Whispers of War does have a contemporary timeline in the novel, but it is just a few chapters. The bulk of the story is set in the late thirties. Kelly is great at creating realistic endearing characters trying to survive in a time where everything seems to be put to the test. If you enjoy a good story, I recommend this one for you.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
January 6, 2020
This novel takes place beginning in 1939, right before England and Germany were at war. Marie, a young woman, had been sent by her parents many years previous to England from Germany to get an education. Her best friends, Nora and Hazel, were her roommates and, after school, her best friends living in London. In 1939, all German immigrants were assigned a threat assessment letter. Marie, of course, was included. The bulk of the story begins there.
I had a little trouble in the first few chapters getting into the book. For what reason I really don't know. But, as I recognized the difference in the girls and got a better understanding of the plot, all that disappeared and I fell under it's spell.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery, Pocket Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I had a little trouble in the first few chapters getting into the book. For what reason I really don't know. But, as I recognized the difference in the girls and got a better understanding of the plot, all that disappeared and I fell under it's spell.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery, Pocket Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 13, 2020
I'll admit, I never really thought too much about the internment camps in Great Britain and Europe during WW2. I know, of course, about the ones up in Canada which imprisoned tens of thousands of people of many different nationalities. This book takes place in London, and it is a fascinating look inside that tumultuous period of history, told through the perspectives of three friends, one of whom is German. I loved the present day timeline that framed the book, because while the granddaughter of one of the girls learns about her ancestors' past, the black & white images from the past become human again, and we understand so much more. "Whispers of War" tells a beautiful tale of friendship, loyalty, suspicion, intrigue, and romance. Hope, in a time when all seems lost.
September 18, 2019
This book was refreshing in a sea of much WWII fiction. At its heart, it is the story of friendship. In this case, three women who became each other's family and whose devotion is tested in a world changing through war and new roles for women. Heartwarming and compelling, it lifts the reader to a place of beauty and joy even as the shadows of impending war threaten to shatter life as they know it. New love, family secrets, and national loyalties shape the friendships. Though WWII fiction is a regular genre of mine, I felt that The Whispers of War elevated the human story of it in ways that felt brand new. And - as I always love to learn through historical fiction - I was pleased (and horrified) to learn about the extensiveness of internments and the darkness that fear and propaganda can harbor. Kelly touched on themes that are found throughout history, giving it a human face.
January 27, 2020
I was very pleased when I won a copy of Julia Kelly's "The Whispers of War." I knew that Kelly's previous book was well received and I thought this one looked like it would be a winner, too.
It is the story of three young women in London at the start of WWII. Friends since school days, Marie is a German girl who was sent by her parents to live with her aunt and uncle, Nora is the daughter of a socialite and Hazel is the result of an unfortunate misalliance.
When the British authorities threaten to round up all Germans living on British soil, Nora and Hazel decide they will do whatever they must to protect Marie.
There are a lot of books being written about women's lives during The Second World War. It seems to be a thing right now. If you are going to read any of the current crop of books, you won't go wrong adding "The Whispers of War" to your list.
I want to thank Gallery Books for sending me an ARC of this novel, which went on sale 1/14/20.
It is the story of three young women in London at the start of WWII. Friends since school days, Marie is a German girl who was sent by her parents to live with her aunt and uncle, Nora is the daughter of a socialite and Hazel is the result of an unfortunate misalliance.
When the British authorities threaten to round up all Germans living on British soil, Nora and Hazel decide they will do whatever they must to protect Marie.
There are a lot of books being written about women's lives during The Second World War. It seems to be a thing right now. If you are going to read any of the current crop of books, you won't go wrong adding "The Whispers of War" to your list.
I want to thank Gallery Books for sending me an ARC of this novel, which went on sale 1/14/20.
Read
September 20, 2019A story of exquisite tenderness, The Whispers of War beautifully captures just how precious female friendship can be, and shines a light onto an important but less well-known aspect of war. Add to that rich historical detail and a cast of engaging characters and you have a must-read for all historical fiction fans.
January 12, 2020
This is the story of three modern young women during WWII in England. They became friends in their teens while attending a boarding school for girls. Their friendship was immediate, and they bonded as sisters. They are willing to do anything to one another. Marie is German by birth but lived most of her life in England. When WWII starts, she faces the risk of being sent to an internment camp. Her friends, Nora and Hazel, will not let her down and will do all they can to keep her safe; even if it will cost them.
This is a beautiful story of courage, friendship, loyalty, and love. This historical novel is told from the perspective of a German native in England during WWII and the discrimination they encounter. Great book.
🙋🏼♀️ Thank you Simon & Schuster Canada for sending me an ARC of this lovely novel. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗮𝗿 by Julia Kelly will be available at your favourite bookstore on January 14, 2020.
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November 21, 2019
THE WHISPERS OF WAR
This was a nice enjoyable book. It is the story of three young women - Nora, Marie, and Hazel - living in England during WWII. They have been friends ever since rooming together during boarding school. We come to learn of their lives and loves through Marie’s granddaughter Samantha who, in the present day, is writing her grandmother’s eulogy after her recent passing at the age of 103.
All three women are strong and independent. They have careers and are involved in various romantic relationships. But as war looms near, England has to assess its population of non-British born citizens within its borders. Marie is German, though she has been living in England since childhood. As the war expands throughout Europe, talk of internment camps and imprisonment becomes a reality in England.
The story focuses on the importance of friendship, the struggle between privacy and the sharing of secrets, and about discovering what each person really wants out of life. It moves along at a nice steady pace and held my interest the whole way through. It was somewhat light but enjoyable and historically informative as well.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Julia Kelly, and Simon & Schuster for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This was a nice enjoyable book. It is the story of three young women - Nora, Marie, and Hazel - living in England during WWII. They have been friends ever since rooming together during boarding school. We come to learn of their lives and loves through Marie’s granddaughter Samantha who, in the present day, is writing her grandmother’s eulogy after her recent passing at the age of 103.
All three women are strong and independent. They have careers and are involved in various romantic relationships. But as war looms near, England has to assess its population of non-British born citizens within its borders. Marie is German, though she has been living in England since childhood. As the war expands throughout Europe, talk of internment camps and imprisonment becomes a reality in England.
The story focuses on the importance of friendship, the struggle between privacy and the sharing of secrets, and about discovering what each person really wants out of life. It moves along at a nice steady pace and held my interest the whole way through. It was somewhat light but enjoyable and historically informative as well.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Julia Kelly, and Simon & Schuster for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 16, 2020
It’s 1939 in Britain as the war with Germany appears a certainty. While set during the start of WWII, this is less a book about the war than a story about friendship. I’ve read the most gut-wrenching books from this era. The Whispers of War is not one of those. It doesn’t delve into the horrors of war but focuses on its impact on three young women who met in school. Marie is German born and the likelihood that she will be forced to go to an internment camp grows each day. Nora and Hazel must find a way to help. There is a dual storyline set in the present where Marie’s granddaughter travels to England to meet Nora. A nice, tender and quick read.
3.75 stars rounded up
And what a beautiful cover!
Review posted at MicheleReader.com.
3.75 stars rounded up
And what a beautiful cover!
Review posted at MicheleReader.com.
January 24, 2020
******SPOILER ALERT*********
******SPOILER ALERT*********
I thought this was a five star book UNTIL I got to the ending. I suspected this was going to be the case but it was very disappointing to have a typical, wrap it up and marry everyone off ending. The wrap-around story of Samantha is a bit too much, too neat, too finished off. Why can't a woman today end the story without a man??? Is it too much to ask? Especially in this book where we have the character Nora who strives to find independence in a time when it was not the normal or well-regarded choice. There are three strong female characters here - and then there is Samantha. So disappointing.
******SPOILER ALERT*********
I thought this was a five star book UNTIL I got to the ending. I suspected this was going to be the case but it was very disappointing to have a typical, wrap it up and marry everyone off ending. The wrap-around story of Samantha is a bit too much, too neat, too finished off. Why can't a woman today end the story without a man??? Is it too much to ask? Especially in this book where we have the character Nora who strives to find independence in a time when it was not the normal or well-regarded choice. There are three strong female characters here - and then there is Samantha. So disappointing.
March 10, 2020
What a beautiful story! I just love these ladies!
I can’t remember the last time I had to grab a tissue while reading a book🤧 (I think Me Before You?) 🤔
I can’t remember the last time I had to grab a tissue while reading a book🤧 (I think Me Before You?) 🤔
January 14, 2020
Julia Kelly has given historical fiction lovers another glimpse of life during World War II. At the core of this novel are three friends who will do anything for each other. When one of the three, a German born woman living in London faces the threat of internment-the bonds of their relationship are revealed.
January 23, 2020
This review is also available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
I own every book that Julia Kelly has ever published, including those she has published under the name Julia Blake. I am very excited to have been added to Julia's ARC team!
The Whispers of War is a World War II historical fiction novel that examines the impact of the war on a group rarely discussed in history: German immigrants living in Allied nations. As Germany was the aggressor in the conflict and responsible for heinous crimes against humanity, especially the Jewish population, few have endeavored to write a novel with a German protagonist. Julia Kelly does so in a sensitive and eloquent manner.
Marie, a German immigrant living in London, England, has lived in London since childhood. Sent away to an English boarding school by her parents, Marie decided to remain in the country with her aunt and uncle, even after graduating. When Germany invades Poland, starting the war, Marie fears for her safety and her freedom. She abhors Germany's actions and fears the Nazi regime. In World War I, the English had rounded up all German immigrants and put them into internment camps, and Marie fears that the government may decide it is necessary to do so again with the current conflict.
The story is told in parts from four different viewpoints. I felt that this structure was effective and easy to follow. At the very beginning, we read from Samantha's point of view in the present day. Samantha is Marie's granddaughter, who has traveled to London to visit Marie's dear friend Nora a year after Marie has passed away. We will hear from Samantha intermittently as Nora imparts Marie's history, preceding each new section of the book. The first section is told from Marie's point of view in autumn of 1939. The second section is told from Marie and Nora's friend Hazel's point of view, covering the winter of 1939 to 1940, and the third is told from Nora's point of view in the spring of 1940. Experiencing Marie's strife through each of these close friends' points of views establishes their unwavering bond and their dedication to Marie's safety and freedom.
I have a minor in history with a focus on World War II history, and I was never aware of the conditions that German immigrants faced living in the internment camps. In America, we hear much about the Japanese internment camps in the United States. Any mention of Germans being rounded up into camps was in passing, never being thoroughly examined. Julia Kelly shines light on a part of history that has not been widely acknowledged or taught.
For those who have read Julia Kelly/Julia Blake's other titles, this story has minimal romance. Romance is a minor element in the book, despite Hazel's occupation as a matchmaker. The story is more about the bond of friendship, the emerging empowerment of women of the era, and revealing the impact of this little-known historical event. Elements of xenophobia, misogyny, discrimination, and abuse of authority are powerfully yet gracefully portrayed.
My favorite sections were those of Marie, Hazel, and Nora. I felt that Samantha’s chapters could have been given a bit more attention. Things seem to move very quickly in her chapters, especially with David. Other than that, The Whispers of War was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction or women’s fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Julia Kelly for providing me with a free digital review copy in exchange for an honest review. Additionally, thank you to Gallery Books for providing me with a free hardcover edition, which will look absolutely stunning on my bookshelf.
#thewhispersofwar #juliakelly #netgalley #gallerybooks
I own every book that Julia Kelly has ever published, including those she has published under the name Julia Blake. I am very excited to have been added to Julia's ARC team!
The Whispers of War is a World War II historical fiction novel that examines the impact of the war on a group rarely discussed in history: German immigrants living in Allied nations. As Germany was the aggressor in the conflict and responsible for heinous crimes against humanity, especially the Jewish population, few have endeavored to write a novel with a German protagonist. Julia Kelly does so in a sensitive and eloquent manner.
Marie, a German immigrant living in London, England, has lived in London since childhood. Sent away to an English boarding school by her parents, Marie decided to remain in the country with her aunt and uncle, even after graduating. When Germany invades Poland, starting the war, Marie fears for her safety and her freedom. She abhors Germany's actions and fears the Nazi regime. In World War I, the English had rounded up all German immigrants and put them into internment camps, and Marie fears that the government may decide it is necessary to do so again with the current conflict.
The story is told in parts from four different viewpoints. I felt that this structure was effective and easy to follow. At the very beginning, we read from Samantha's point of view in the present day. Samantha is Marie's granddaughter, who has traveled to London to visit Marie's dear friend Nora a year after Marie has passed away. We will hear from Samantha intermittently as Nora imparts Marie's history, preceding each new section of the book. The first section is told from Marie's point of view in autumn of 1939. The second section is told from Marie and Nora's friend Hazel's point of view, covering the winter of 1939 to 1940, and the third is told from Nora's point of view in the spring of 1940. Experiencing Marie's strife through each of these close friends' points of views establishes their unwavering bond and their dedication to Marie's safety and freedom.
I have a minor in history with a focus on World War II history, and I was never aware of the conditions that German immigrants faced living in the internment camps. In America, we hear much about the Japanese internment camps in the United States. Any mention of Germans being rounded up into camps was in passing, never being thoroughly examined. Julia Kelly shines light on a part of history that has not been widely acknowledged or taught.
For those who have read Julia Kelly/Julia Blake's other titles, this story has minimal romance. Romance is a minor element in the book, despite Hazel's occupation as a matchmaker. The story is more about the bond of friendship, the emerging empowerment of women of the era, and revealing the impact of this little-known historical event. Elements of xenophobia, misogyny, discrimination, and abuse of authority are powerfully yet gracefully portrayed.
My favorite sections were those of Marie, Hazel, and Nora. I felt that Samantha’s chapters could have been given a bit more attention. Things seem to move very quickly in her chapters, especially with David. Other than that, The Whispers of War was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction or women’s fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Julia Kelly for providing me with a free digital review copy in exchange for an honest review. Additionally, thank you to Gallery Books for providing me with a free hardcover edition, which will look absolutely stunning on my bookshelf.
#thewhispersofwar #juliakelly #netgalley #gallerybooks
January 19, 2020
Lindas Book Obsession Review "The Whispers of War" by Julia Kelly, Gallery Books, January 2020
Julia Kelly, Author of "The Whispers of War has written a captivating and intense Historical Fiction novel. The Genres for this novel are Historical Fiction and Romance. The timeline for this story is set around 1939 when it looks like England will be entering a war with Germany. The story goes to the past, or future when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes her characters as loyal, courageous and brave. Other characters are complex and complicated.
I love the way Julia Kelly writes and describes her characters, the landscape and the political climate of England. The themes for this story are friendship and the importance of sisterhood, especially during Wartime. Nora, Hazel and Marie are close friends. All of them have been in school together in England. Now as adults, they are as close as ever.
As Britain contemplates another tragic and devastating war with Germany, the girls are facing a heartbreaking problem. Marie was born in Germany and lives with her Aunt and Uncle in England. She has papers to prove that she has the right to be in England, but everything changes. The Germans living and working in England are grouped by letters and called up for internment. Will Marie have to go live in an internment camp? Mary is declared to be an enemy because she is German. How is it possible for her friends to help her?
I appreciate that Julia Kelly discusses the internment camps in England, that hold German people, many who are citizens. It reminds me of the German and Japanese people that lived in the United States that went to Internment camps. It also raises the questions of immigrants being sent to camps today.
I would highly recommend this Historical Fiction novel for those readers who appreciate reading about World War II. This is quite a thought-provoking novel.
Julia Kelly, Author of "The Whispers of War has written a captivating and intense Historical Fiction novel. The Genres for this novel are Historical Fiction and Romance. The timeline for this story is set around 1939 when it looks like England will be entering a war with Germany. The story goes to the past, or future when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes her characters as loyal, courageous and brave. Other characters are complex and complicated.
I love the way Julia Kelly writes and describes her characters, the landscape and the political climate of England. The themes for this story are friendship and the importance of sisterhood, especially during Wartime. Nora, Hazel and Marie are close friends. All of them have been in school together in England. Now as adults, they are as close as ever.
As Britain contemplates another tragic and devastating war with Germany, the girls are facing a heartbreaking problem. Marie was born in Germany and lives with her Aunt and Uncle in England. She has papers to prove that she has the right to be in England, but everything changes. The Germans living and working in England are grouped by letters and called up for internment. Will Marie have to go live in an internment camp? Mary is declared to be an enemy because she is German. How is it possible for her friends to help her?
I appreciate that Julia Kelly discusses the internment camps in England, that hold German people, many who are citizens. It reminds me of the German and Japanese people that lived in the United States that went to Internment camps. It also raises the questions of immigrants being sent to camps today.
I would highly recommend this Historical Fiction novel for those readers who appreciate reading about World War II. This is quite a thought-provoking novel.
March 29, 2021
2.5 stars. An easy read about three women's friendship during the war and then one of her granddaughters who was an executer of one of the main characters will. I feel like I've read versions of this plot many times.
January 27, 2020
Great WWII historic novel! Gripping, a historical novel not to miss!
March 18, 2020
Pretty good historical fiction, certainly read worse, I really like the characters and the story, don't care much for romance but this book was graceful? about it. Would reread and would love to own.
January 16, 2020
This was my very first Julia Kelly book. I've had The Light Over London sitting on my shelf for far too long so hope to pick it up soon!
I enjoyed The Whispers Of War. The story alternates between the present, Samantha - who is meeting her grandmother's best friend Nora and the past, best friends Nora, Marie & Hazel. The strength of these friendships (family really!) was truly inspiring and I loved how well the author described and really gave the reader a clear vision into who these women were. I felt like I was able to connect with each of them, found myself rooting for their success. And surprise! There's even some romance thrown in there which I actually enjoyed ha ha! For those of you who have been following my reviews for awhile you'll know I'm not a romance fan.
Overall I found this an enjoyable, well written read. Huge thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for my review copy.
I enjoyed The Whispers Of War. The story alternates between the present, Samantha - who is meeting her grandmother's best friend Nora and the past, best friends Nora, Marie & Hazel. The strength of these friendships (family really!) was truly inspiring and I loved how well the author described and really gave the reader a clear vision into who these women were. I felt like I was able to connect with each of them, found myself rooting for their success. And surprise! There's even some romance thrown in there which I actually enjoyed ha ha! For those of you who have been following my reviews for awhile you'll know I'm not a romance fan.
Overall I found this an enjoyable, well written read. Huge thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for my review copy.
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