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Lucia's War
London, 1950. Opera singer Lucia Percival is due to perform her last concert. But she has no intention of going onstage. A terrible secret from the First World War has finally caught up with her.
London, 1917. Lucia, a young Jamaican exile, hopes to make it as a musician. But her past haunts her, and when she meets Lilian, an old woman damaged by war, she agrees to a pact that could destroy everything she has fought so hard for.
From the Western Front and Glasgow, to black society in London, Lucia’s story tells a tale of music, motherhood, loss and redemption.
From the author of White Feathers, a passionate, compelling wartime romance shortlisted for the Romantic Novel of the Year in 2015, comes a new novel telling a compelling story of music, motherhood, race and war.
London, 1917. Lucia, a young Jamaican exile, hopes to make it as a musician. But her past haunts her, and when she meets Lilian, an old woman damaged by war, she agrees to a pact that could destroy everything she has fought so hard for.
From the Western Front and Glasgow, to black society in London, Lucia’s story tells a tale of music, motherhood, loss and redemption.
From the author of White Feathers, a passionate, compelling wartime romance shortlisted for the Romantic Novel of the Year in 2015, comes a new novel telling a compelling story of music, motherhood, race and war.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2020
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582 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 5, 2020
Thank you to Susan Lanigan for a digital review copy of this book - my thoughts are my own.
I've read a large number of historical fiction books over the past couple of years and was interested by the synopsis of this book. When I studied History at school, the early part of the twentieth century was one of my favourite periods of time - so many social changes happened in a relatively short period of time.
This is the first book I've read about the era featuring a family from Jamaica. I had no idea that soldiers from Jamaica were involved in the war, I had only heard of the involvement of the Australian and New Zealand troops.
The book jumps backwards and forwards in time. I did struggle a little to start with to understand who was who in the different time periods, but this did become much clearer as the story progressed. The story covers many difficult topics, some of which sadly continue in modern times - racism, child abuse, forced adoption, illegal abortion and forced marriage.
Lucia's love of singing is the bright light in this book and I found myself willing her to succeed despite all the obstacles she faced. The book is well written and full of historical detail. I did find it depressing in places due to the topics covered. Lucia had to make new friends and acquaintances after arriving in the UK, some of which were supportive and some not.
If you enjoy reading historical fiction set in the twentieth century, then I recommend you read this book.
I've read a large number of historical fiction books over the past couple of years and was interested by the synopsis of this book. When I studied History at school, the early part of the twentieth century was one of my favourite periods of time - so many social changes happened in a relatively short period of time.
This is the first book I've read about the era featuring a family from Jamaica. I had no idea that soldiers from Jamaica were involved in the war, I had only heard of the involvement of the Australian and New Zealand troops.
The book jumps backwards and forwards in time. I did struggle a little to start with to understand who was who in the different time periods, but this did become much clearer as the story progressed. The story covers many difficult topics, some of which sadly continue in modern times - racism, child abuse, forced adoption, illegal abortion and forced marriage.
Lucia's love of singing is the bright light in this book and I found myself willing her to succeed despite all the obstacles she faced. The book is well written and full of historical detail. I did find it depressing in places due to the topics covered. Lucia had to make new friends and acquaintances after arriving in the UK, some of which were supportive and some not.
If you enjoy reading historical fiction set in the twentieth century, then I recommend you read this book.
June 8, 2020
I received a free electronic copy of this novel from BookSIRENS, Susan Lanigan, and Idee Fixe Press. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read this historical novel of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am happy to recommend Susan Lanigan to friends and family. She writes a tight tale with convincing protagonists and her backgrounds are picture-perfect. We see all the places Lucia touched, and all the experiences that touched her, with clarity and heart.
Licia's War is a heart-touching tale of the life and times of Lucia Percival, a Jamaican girl with perfect pitch and the self-discipline and emotional drive to place her in the opera houses of Europe despite the deprivations of WWI, her poverty and her race. This is a book you will find difficult to set aside for mundane chores and real meals, so stock up on yogurt, chips, and jerky before you start.
Print date June 1, 2020
Reviewed on June 8, 2020, on BookSIRENS, Goodread, and AmazonSmile. Not available for review on Barnes&Noble, BookBub, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
Licia's War is a heart-touching tale of the life and times of Lucia Percival, a Jamaican girl with perfect pitch and the self-discipline and emotional drive to place her in the opera houses of Europe despite the deprivations of WWI, her poverty and her race. This is a book you will find difficult to set aside for mundane chores and real meals, so stock up on yogurt, chips, and jerky before you start.
Print date June 1, 2020
Reviewed on June 8, 2020, on BookSIRENS, Goodread, and AmazonSmile. Not available for review on Barnes&Noble, BookBub, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
November 29, 2020
A straight 5* for this beautiful book! Lucia's story is about fight and survival. Fight to make her place in a society (London) which does not welcome her (she is a Black woman from Jamaica); fight to make herself heard (she is a very talented singer); and fight for loving (her child foremost, and men). However, she is not giving up, and does not give in to self-pity.
Racism is a big theme in this book. Susan Lanigan shows its hierarchy and stratas very subtly.
The writing is excellent, many patois expressions puts colour in Lucia's language (she is the narrator), which makes her real, witty and very likable, which contrasts with the grey hue of WWI London. Music also plays in the background. One can nearly hear Lucia sing. Highly recommended for literary fiction readers!
Thank you so much, Susan for letting me read your book for free on BookSirens!
Racism is a big theme in this book. Susan Lanigan shows its hierarchy and stratas very subtly.
The writing is excellent, many patois expressions puts colour in Lucia's language (she is the narrator), which makes her real, witty and very likable, which contrasts with the grey hue of WWI London. Music also plays in the background. One can nearly hear Lucia sing. Highly recommended for literary fiction readers!
Thank you so much, Susan for letting me read your book for free on BookSirens!
May 29, 2020
'A story of motherhood, music, loss and redemption, set in the latter part of WWI and post-Armistice.’
Lucia’s War is the latest novel from Irish writer, Susan Lanigan. It will be published June 5th 2020 and is described as a ‘novel telling a compelling story of music, motherhood, race and war’ Lucia’s War follows on from Susan Lanigan’s novel, White Feathers, which was released in 2014.
“It was always my desire to continue on with Lucia’s story where it began in White Feathers, and while Lucia’s War is in the same universe, with a few characters reappearing, her tale is separate and complete in itself – and one that I feel should be told in its own right. Among other themes, it explores how the propaganda machine weaponised motherhood during that war, and how black intellectual life flourished in London in the late teens and early postwar years. Not to mention fending off advances from W.B. Yeats and Bertrand Russell…”
Lucia Percival is a woman of strength and courage but there is a shadow of sadness that follows in her wake. After many dark years, Lucia became the singer she always wanted to be, gracing the stage performing the arias she always dreamed of.
‘Did you know I once sang Wagner to a roomful of Nazis?….They didn’t see me, nor I them, so they never knew I was not the Aryan goddess they hoped I would be….’
But Lucia has a secret, one that takes up a permanent place in her heart, one that she has kept secret for years. In conversation with a music critic, Lucia makes a decision to tell her story and we journey back to 1917, when Lucia, a young woman, an immigrant from Jamaica, arrives to the UK with dreams of one day being a famous singer. Born in Mandeville, Manchester Parish in Jamaica in 1893, it was evident from an early age that Lucia had a special voice, one that would take her away from her life into another world.
Lucia moved to London with a dream in her heart but with the war raging on, she offered her services to assist the medics on the front-line. The trauma of that time remained with Lucia. The scenes she witnessed marked her and events surrounding those months were to affect her life forever.
‘Killed in Passchendaele…or was it Ypres? Three years in, it was hard to keep track. At the beginning of the war we had regarded the long death columns in the Times with horror and awe. Now? We used the pages to wrap fish.’
Returning to the UK from France was to present Lucia with some very distressing challenges and she faced some very dark months, but a voice like hers was always going to be heard and it wasn’t long before opportunity knocked. Lucia was given the chance to perfect her vocals under the tutelage of a famed singing teacher. The pain within was to enhance Lucia’s voice and her progress was evident to others, but Lucia needed closure on another part of her life before she could ever truly start over again.
Lucia Percival is a woman with strength and courage, a woman proud of her origins, even when society tried to tell her differently. Surrounded by prejudice due to her skin colour and her accent, Lucia faced all the racial discrimination with fierce determination and tenacity.
Susan Lanigan explores many themes handling them all very sensitively and with a very insightful approach. The research is very evident on turning the pages. With very authentic accounts of life in the trenches, Susan Lanigan depicts the horrors of that time to great visual effect. The anguish and the pain is evident from every word, every description. Also explored is the intellectual scene among the black community in London at the time which was really fascinating to read about.
While Lucia’s War is most definitely the story of one woman’s life, it is also a historical snapshot of a time when the world was in turmoil. Lucia Percival’s story is heartbreaking, her life one of sorrow and hardship. Faced with insurmountable obstacles, Lucia’s pure drive and determination brought her through very challenging years. Throughout Lucia’s War there are characters and references relating to White Feathers (Susan Lanigan’s previous novel). I did get a little confused on occasion, not having read it, but it did not take from my overall appreciation of the novel.
Lucia’s War< is an affecting and evocative tale. Clearly Susan Lanigan is very passionate in her writing and it really shines through when reading this very emotive story. It is a study of social history and a fascinating account of the unwavering determination of one woman to fulfill her dreams against all the odds.
Lucia’s War is a very profound, intense and engrossing read, one that will appeal to all with an interest in history, in particular the social and cultural history of those fraught years of the early twentieth century.
“I, Lucia Percival, have committed a great crime. I have seen the worst of war. I have loved and lost. I have sung, yes, but that was not all I did”
Lucia’s War is the latest novel from Irish writer, Susan Lanigan. It will be published June 5th 2020 and is described as a ‘novel telling a compelling story of music, motherhood, race and war’ Lucia’s War follows on from Susan Lanigan’s novel, White Feathers, which was released in 2014.
“It was always my desire to continue on with Lucia’s story where it began in White Feathers, and while Lucia’s War is in the same universe, with a few characters reappearing, her tale is separate and complete in itself – and one that I feel should be told in its own right. Among other themes, it explores how the propaganda machine weaponised motherhood during that war, and how black intellectual life flourished in London in the late teens and early postwar years. Not to mention fending off advances from W.B. Yeats and Bertrand Russell…”
Lucia Percival is a woman of strength and courage but there is a shadow of sadness that follows in her wake. After many dark years, Lucia became the singer she always wanted to be, gracing the stage performing the arias she always dreamed of.
‘Did you know I once sang Wagner to a roomful of Nazis?….They didn’t see me, nor I them, so they never knew I was not the Aryan goddess they hoped I would be….’
But Lucia has a secret, one that takes up a permanent place in her heart, one that she has kept secret for years. In conversation with a music critic, Lucia makes a decision to tell her story and we journey back to 1917, when Lucia, a young woman, an immigrant from Jamaica, arrives to the UK with dreams of one day being a famous singer. Born in Mandeville, Manchester Parish in Jamaica in 1893, it was evident from an early age that Lucia had a special voice, one that would take her away from her life into another world.
Lucia moved to London with a dream in her heart but with the war raging on, she offered her services to assist the medics on the front-line. The trauma of that time remained with Lucia. The scenes she witnessed marked her and events surrounding those months were to affect her life forever.
‘Killed in Passchendaele…or was it Ypres? Three years in, it was hard to keep track. At the beginning of the war we had regarded the long death columns in the Times with horror and awe. Now? We used the pages to wrap fish.’
Returning to the UK from France was to present Lucia with some very distressing challenges and she faced some very dark months, but a voice like hers was always going to be heard and it wasn’t long before opportunity knocked. Lucia was given the chance to perfect her vocals under the tutelage of a famed singing teacher. The pain within was to enhance Lucia’s voice and her progress was evident to others, but Lucia needed closure on another part of her life before she could ever truly start over again.
Lucia Percival is a woman with strength and courage, a woman proud of her origins, even when society tried to tell her differently. Surrounded by prejudice due to her skin colour and her accent, Lucia faced all the racial discrimination with fierce determination and tenacity.
Susan Lanigan explores many themes handling them all very sensitively and with a very insightful approach. The research is very evident on turning the pages. With very authentic accounts of life in the trenches, Susan Lanigan depicts the horrors of that time to great visual effect. The anguish and the pain is evident from every word, every description. Also explored is the intellectual scene among the black community in London at the time which was really fascinating to read about.
While Lucia’s War is most definitely the story of one woman’s life, it is also a historical snapshot of a time when the world was in turmoil. Lucia Percival’s story is heartbreaking, her life one of sorrow and hardship. Faced with insurmountable obstacles, Lucia’s pure drive and determination brought her through very challenging years. Throughout Lucia’s War there are characters and references relating to White Feathers (Susan Lanigan’s previous novel). I did get a little confused on occasion, not having read it, but it did not take from my overall appreciation of the novel.
Lucia’s War< is an affecting and evocative tale. Clearly Susan Lanigan is very passionate in her writing and it really shines through when reading this very emotive story. It is a study of social history and a fascinating account of the unwavering determination of one woman to fulfill her dreams against all the odds.
Lucia’s War is a very profound, intense and engrossing read, one that will appeal to all with an interest in history, in particular the social and cultural history of those fraught years of the early twentieth century.
“I, Lucia Percival, have committed a great crime. I have seen the worst of war. I have loved and lost. I have sung, yes, but that was not all I did”
June 3, 2020
This read was just what I needed to escape. A secret has caught up to the main character, Lucia, and an interview of her ‘true story’ kept me quickly swiping pages to figure out the secret and how Lucia survives. This author did a nice job of taking you into the atmosphere of London, as well as the time period that Lucia is experiencing. An all around good read that reminded me how much I love Historical Fiction.
June 29, 2020
Oh my, Susan Lanigan has a pearl here. From the first page of this book I knew I would learn so much from Lucia's story. Not only did I learn but I lived and cried with Lucia as she struggled to find her way through wartime, a way to survive the discrimination, the loss; to find a way to nurture her talent. And boy does she have a talent. The beauty of music was not about to be destroyed by war and in the most unlikely of circumstances, a star was born. That star is Lucia. Against all the odds and with a determination that got her through many complicated situations, her talent shone on. The evil of racism pervades every chapter, every twist and turn of Lucia's story. And oh my goodness, that ending! My heart became undone.
May 27, 2020
This is a stunning work of historical fiction, and I’m very grateful to have been given an advance review copy.
The title - Lucia’s War - sums up everything about this novel. It’s her experience of war, and it’s everything that happened to her during, or as a consequence of, that war. Lanigan excellently portrays how the First World War affected women left at home, how they helped, how they grieved, and how they managed the consequences.
As a young woman, Lucia travels from her homeland of Jamaica to help with the war effort, finding herself in France and, ultimately, London. Her consequences are dark and heartbreaking, and seeing how she manages these feels impossible. I was desperate for her happy ending to arrive, with Lucia battling through like a true tragic heroine, balancing personal struggles with her quest to become a famous singer.
Lucia tells her story to a music critic, and as it comes in a stream of consciousness format, we flick around through time an awful lot. I felt this was a perfect way to tell the story, with Lucia wandering off on tangents as something evoked a memory. It felt as though she were telling her story to me personally, and I was rapt.
The plot seems to have been very carefully considered, with things falling into place at perfect moments, and characters being related to each other in ways we wouldn’t have fathomed. Lanigan has a wonderful way of subtly characterising even the smallest of parts, and it leads to a deep understanding of the personalities, but most importantly for the plot, motives. Some of them carry out some disgusting deeds, and yet Lanigan’s characterisation allows us to understand their reasons, and almost, if not quite entirely, justify them.
Lanigan’s social commentary on the early 1900s is truly something to behold. She speaks a lot on racial tension, on how people of colour were perceived, the looks, the statements, the othering. It hurt to read, and yet 100 years on, it still happens. As Lucia was not only black, but a woman too, she faces double the oppression, and Lanigan takes great pains to show us the struggles of all female characters within the novel.
This was such a gorgeous account of wartime and its aftermath, of racist Britain, of a woman’s unfeasible fight to get what she wants. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it, with a warning that it will break your heart.
The title - Lucia’s War - sums up everything about this novel. It’s her experience of war, and it’s everything that happened to her during, or as a consequence of, that war. Lanigan excellently portrays how the First World War affected women left at home, how they helped, how they grieved, and how they managed the consequences.
As a young woman, Lucia travels from her homeland of Jamaica to help with the war effort, finding herself in France and, ultimately, London. Her consequences are dark and heartbreaking, and seeing how she manages these feels impossible. I was desperate for her happy ending to arrive, with Lucia battling through like a true tragic heroine, balancing personal struggles with her quest to become a famous singer.
Lucia tells her story to a music critic, and as it comes in a stream of consciousness format, we flick around through time an awful lot. I felt this was a perfect way to tell the story, with Lucia wandering off on tangents as something evoked a memory. It felt as though she were telling her story to me personally, and I was rapt.
The plot seems to have been very carefully considered, with things falling into place at perfect moments, and characters being related to each other in ways we wouldn’t have fathomed. Lanigan has a wonderful way of subtly characterising even the smallest of parts, and it leads to a deep understanding of the personalities, but most importantly for the plot, motives. Some of them carry out some disgusting deeds, and yet Lanigan’s characterisation allows us to understand their reasons, and almost, if not quite entirely, justify them.
Lanigan’s social commentary on the early 1900s is truly something to behold. She speaks a lot on racial tension, on how people of colour were perceived, the looks, the statements, the othering. It hurt to read, and yet 100 years on, it still happens. As Lucia was not only black, but a woman too, she faces double the oppression, and Lanigan takes great pains to show us the struggles of all female characters within the novel.
This was such a gorgeous account of wartime and its aftermath, of racist Britain, of a woman’s unfeasible fight to get what she wants. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it, with a warning that it will break your heart.
September 18, 2020
Thank you to Book Sirens for this copy of Lucia's War by Susan Lanigan. I'd not heard of the book or the author prior to requesting it from Book Sirens, but after reading the description knew it was one I wanted to read. I love historical fiction and lately am leaning towards the plight and journey of black men and women in history. I'm not familiar with Opera and don't listen to it at all, but that didn't stop me from wanting to learn about Lucia Percival's life, the good and the bad.
Lucia, a Jamaican exile now living in London in 1950 is set to perform one last time when she's decided she just can't go on stage. She receives terrible news related to a life long secret she's held that has devastating results right before her scheduled performance.
Flashback to 1917 when Lucia was dreaming of making it as a singer. Being a black women in 1917 London and wanting to perform on stage was going to be a tough task to accomplish, however Lucia was a tough lady with dreams who didn't fall into step with the norms of the day. Early on she falls in love with the wrong man and soon finds herself in trouble. She survives his abrupt departure, but then the unthinkable happens and therein lies the secret she holds onto for the duration of her life. She will never forget what she's forced to leave behind, she will always regret what happened that day.
Years later she's introduced to a white woman who has suffered a similar heartbreak and a pact is made, but is this a positive move for Lucia or is she being used by a white person again? She's not sure, but carries out her end of the pact anyway. Her talent carries her into international stardom, yet because of the color of her skin she's still only able to sing in certain venues.
The book is Lucia's retelling of her life story to a reporter at that final performance in London. She doesn't leave anything out and through the good, the bad, the happy and oh so sad, the reader is taken on an often times unimaginable journey into the life of a black opera singer trying to survive, love and redeem herself in a time in history when being a black woman was not necessarily conducive to being relative.
I'm a huge fan of historical fiction and especially when it's centered around a strong female protagonist. I've read so many great books with great female characters and this one has now been added to that list. She was tough, yet tender, outspoken sometimes to a fault, unstoppable, yet stunted by a secret she held dear, she was a force to be reckoned with and once again we see a strong woman who fought the odds and survived. Excellent historical facts and well researched. A must read for historical fiction fans and especially those who love a strong female protagonist! I say read this one, the last line of the book makes the whole read worth it! I was stunned! Happy Reading!
Lucia, a Jamaican exile now living in London in 1950 is set to perform one last time when she's decided she just can't go on stage. She receives terrible news related to a life long secret she's held that has devastating results right before her scheduled performance.
Flashback to 1917 when Lucia was dreaming of making it as a singer. Being a black women in 1917 London and wanting to perform on stage was going to be a tough task to accomplish, however Lucia was a tough lady with dreams who didn't fall into step with the norms of the day. Early on she falls in love with the wrong man and soon finds herself in trouble. She survives his abrupt departure, but then the unthinkable happens and therein lies the secret she holds onto for the duration of her life. She will never forget what she's forced to leave behind, she will always regret what happened that day.
Years later she's introduced to a white woman who has suffered a similar heartbreak and a pact is made, but is this a positive move for Lucia or is she being used by a white person again? She's not sure, but carries out her end of the pact anyway. Her talent carries her into international stardom, yet because of the color of her skin she's still only able to sing in certain venues.
The book is Lucia's retelling of her life story to a reporter at that final performance in London. She doesn't leave anything out and through the good, the bad, the happy and oh so sad, the reader is taken on an often times unimaginable journey into the life of a black opera singer trying to survive, love and redeem herself in a time in history when being a black woman was not necessarily conducive to being relative.
I'm a huge fan of historical fiction and especially when it's centered around a strong female protagonist. I've read so many great books with great female characters and this one has now been added to that list. She was tough, yet tender, outspoken sometimes to a fault, unstoppable, yet stunted by a secret she held dear, she was a force to be reckoned with and once again we see a strong woman who fought the odds and survived. Excellent historical facts and well researched. A must read for historical fiction fans and especially those who love a strong female protagonist! I say read this one, the last line of the book makes the whole read worth it! I was stunned! Happy Reading!
May 12, 2020
"Did you know I once sang Wagner to a roomful of Nazis?"
It wasn't the most conventional way to start an interview with a music critic, but then, no one had ever called Lucia Percival conventional. And it wasn't as if this man's opinion mattered, for this was to be Lucia's last concert.
Of course, the Nazis had not realised that it was not an Aryan goddess singing behind the curtained booth. It was amusing when one thought about it. But that is all water under the bridge, at least, it should be. If only it were so easy to let one's past wash away with the current.
Everyone has secrets, stains upon their soul — that was what life did to you sometimes. However, the past had an awful habit of catching up with you when you least expect it. Better for Lucia to tell someone the whole story from her point of view before someone else did it for her…
From the dark, despairing depths of the Firth of Clyde to the glitter of the stage, Lucia's War by Susan Lanigan is the evocative story of a young Jamaican exile who dared to present herself to a world that was not ready for her.
With the passion of a subterranean fire desperate to explode into the world with a deafening crescendo that would forever shake the foundations of the earth, comes a story that would not seem out of place in one of Strauss' operas, Lucia's War is a novel that is as sensational as it is brilliant. With a lavish sense of flair, Lanigan throws her readers into a world of racial inequalities, where the colour of your skin mattered more than the colour of your soul, even if one did bleed the same colour red on the battlefield. It is a world of war and deprivation, broken promises, and disappointments. But above everything else, it is the story of a mother's love and the desperate desire to storm the music world, shake it to its very core, and show everyone that a young Jamaican exile had what it takes to become a superstar.
Oh, this book, where do I even begin? This is a story that swept me away in all of its brilliance. With soaring arpeggio's that scream of disaster and triumph seemingly in the same breath, Lucia's War is a novel that mesmerises. Lanigan has done the impossible and somehow weaved the language of music into this evocative story in such a way that it was almost as if I was listening to a poignant symphony that was as beautiful as it was violent.
The heroine of this story is the young Lucia Percival whose head is filled with music and dreams, and yet she faces the horrors of war, the abandonment by the man she loves, and the despairing loss of a child — a child she would have given up everything for. Lucia makes some bad decisions, but she is young, the world is at war and tomorrow isn't promised. However, despite her suffering, despite her loss, she can find some escape in her music. But even then, she is faced with almost insurmountable opposition because of the colour of her skin. Lucia fears that all her dreams will go up in ashes and fall like burnt confetti from the sky. I could not help but adore Lucia. She finds herself in some really impossible situations, and she makes the mistake of letting others dictate to her and tell her what to do. Although Lucia comes across as a very strong character, she really isn't. She is desperately unhappy and yearning for something that is always just out of reach. At times, the things Lucia has to go through really broke my heart and I found myself reaching for the tissues. Lucia's story is so poignantly tragic, but then the best operas are.
There are several secondary characters to this story, and they all bring something bittersweet to the narrative, but as well as that they help Lanigan depict the very essence of the era. Eva Downey's story is desperately tragic — how I cried for this character. The guilt she feels at giving the love of her life a white feather during the war means she is dying a death more agonising then he did. I feared for Eva's wellbeing on more than one occasions. She is this wonderful young lady whose dreams died the day Christopher did. Eva is a direct contrast to Lucia who, despite her grief, is still daring to dream — Eva got off that particular train a long time ago. I thought Eva was beautifully portrayed.
The men in Lucia's life do not come away from their relationship with her unscathed. Robin Mackenzie loves where he should not, he is white, Lucia is coloured, and unfortunately, society dictated that the two of them had no business together, even though they were so well suited. I think Lucia would have had a very happy life with him in another time and another place, and that knowledge is heart-breaking. I thought Robin's depiction was fabulous. He is broken by the end of this novel all because he could not love where he wanted.
The other man in Lucia's life is the dashingly handsome composer, Arthur Rosewell. Unlike with Robin, there are no racial barriers to him and Lucia being together, but there are emotional ones. There is also a sense of a shadow of a love triangle between Lucia, Arthur and Robin, which none of them can seemingly escape from. Arthur is a very honourable man, and he wants Lucia to succeed. However, he wants it on his terms, and that was never going to happen. I think by contrasting the two very different men, Lanigan shows the readers the despair that comes from loving a woman who marches to a beat only she can hear.
We do meet some historical characters in this book, most notably the Irish poet, W. B. Yeats, but it is the attention to the historical detail where Lanigan excels. Like all gifted historical fiction authors, Lanigan has portrayed the era this book is set in seemingly without any effort. This is incredibly hard to pull off, but Lanigan has done it most admirably. The hours of research that have so obviously gone into this book is staggering, but it was so worth it. Bravo, Ms Lanigan.
Lucia's War by Susan Lanigan is an exceptional work of scholarship. It is in all ways a historical fiction masterpiece. This is a book that is deserving of your time.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
June 12, 2020
An excellent sequel-of-sorts to White Feathers, this book also addresses the terrible cost of war, repression and abuse of power, but from a different perspective. Lucia's story draws in all those themes, as well as the ever-present oppression of racism. The use of music as a linking thread throughout the many twists and turns of the plot works very well - Lucia's passion for her art is never in doubt. The world of Black intellectuals in early 20th century London, which is not as well-known as it should be, is vividly drawn and the (no doubt extensive) research is worn lightly. Although Lucia's experiences are quite different from those of Eva, Sybil, Lilian and other White Feathers characters who reappear in the book, she nevertheless has in common with them a spirit of independence and unwillingness to be crushed by the suffocating forces of respectability. There's a reason all these characters find each other! A wonderful story of passion, vengeance, love, loss and music.
June 12, 2020
I read Susan Lanigan’s 2014 novel White Feathers and enjoyed it immensely. Lucia’s War returns to the same fictional universe, with a support character from that earlier novel now moving centre stage against the backdrop of the devastating Great War.
Lucia Percival is a young Afro-Caribbean woman who has moved to London to fulfil her ambition of training to be an opera singer. By the time we meet her, we are aware that she has already been through a personal ordeal that has left her scarred, though no less determined to fulfil her destiny. As the novel goes on, Lucia is confronted with a choice that will have far-reaching consequences: try to undo the great wrong that was done to her, or turn her back on the past and move on.
Lanigan deftly draws the reader into the grimy, dispiriting world of 1917 London, where an entire generation is coming to terms with the social and psychological toll exacted by years of warfare. From the acknowledgments, I can see that the author has done considerable research into this era and she summons up a sense of time and place in the most vivid terms. Most troublingly and perhaps presciently, the author also evokes the extent to which racism was endemic in society at that time, running like a persistent computer program in the background, bubbling to the surface from time to time to devastating effect. It’s a mark of Lanigan’s skill as a storyteller that none of this feels forced or contrived.
Meanwhile, in Lucia, Lanigan has created a fully realised heroine with an intelligence and wit to equal her beauty, charisma and talent. That’s not to say that Lucia is a flawless character but her failings, say, her beliefs about personal morality (which would be perfectly in line with her contemporaries) or her sometimes transactional relationship with her friend Eva, only serve to make her a more believable and relatable figure.
The plot bristles with energy, gaining momentum over the course of the novel and reaching its climax right at the very end, in a denouement that will have the reader reaching for the Kleenex.
I can think of no higher praise than to say that as soon as I finished Lucia’s War, I wanted to go back to page 1 and start all over again.
You’ll love this story if you like historical fiction, if you like strong female characters, if you like plots that are driven by characters’ own qualities and decisions, and – more than anything – if you like beautiful writing.
Lucia Percival is a young Afro-Caribbean woman who has moved to London to fulfil her ambition of training to be an opera singer. By the time we meet her, we are aware that she has already been through a personal ordeal that has left her scarred, though no less determined to fulfil her destiny. As the novel goes on, Lucia is confronted with a choice that will have far-reaching consequences: try to undo the great wrong that was done to her, or turn her back on the past and move on.
Lanigan deftly draws the reader into the grimy, dispiriting world of 1917 London, where an entire generation is coming to terms with the social and psychological toll exacted by years of warfare. From the acknowledgments, I can see that the author has done considerable research into this era and she summons up a sense of time and place in the most vivid terms. Most troublingly and perhaps presciently, the author also evokes the extent to which racism was endemic in society at that time, running like a persistent computer program in the background, bubbling to the surface from time to time to devastating effect. It’s a mark of Lanigan’s skill as a storyteller that none of this feels forced or contrived.
Meanwhile, in Lucia, Lanigan has created a fully realised heroine with an intelligence and wit to equal her beauty, charisma and talent. That’s not to say that Lucia is a flawless character but her failings, say, her beliefs about personal morality (which would be perfectly in line with her contemporaries) or her sometimes transactional relationship with her friend Eva, only serve to make her a more believable and relatable figure.
The plot bristles with energy, gaining momentum over the course of the novel and reaching its climax right at the very end, in a denouement that will have the reader reaching for the Kleenex.
I can think of no higher praise than to say that as soon as I finished Lucia’s War, I wanted to go back to page 1 and start all over again.
You’ll love this story if you like historical fiction, if you like strong female characters, if you like plots that are driven by characters’ own qualities and decisions, and – more than anything – if you like beautiful writing.
June 11, 2020
I fell in love with this historical story. You can tell As you read a lot of research went into writing this story. Grab some tissues,you will need them Follow this woman's life for better or worse! The writing of Susan Lanigan it flows,seeing no bumps in the road. I will read more of this ladies stories. Learn about her the opera,learn about Lucia 's music in the year starting in 1917.. Follow her life as a musician ,a mother and how a old woman impacts her life. Very much a emotion read,this story will not leave you soon,it's one that you think about! Enjoy! 🙉🙈🙊
June 11, 2020
A historical novel written in the first person.
This could just have been a straightforward account of how a musician from the period 1917 encounters racist beliefs, but it isn't. The author has endeavoured to make it more personal and add more interest and depth by ensconcing the main character in a very complicated personal battle. Again, this could have been more straightforward than it transpires to be but our musician must first fulfil her side of a bargain - one that would seem to be totally morally unethical. Whilst understanding the compelling need for her carrying out her action I somehow couldn't accept it - perhaps for such a significant deed I felt it was accorded too little attention in the story.
The plot, particularly its final twist, was highly engaging and should earn more than my 3 stars but this just didn't flow as well as I had hoped. On a very personal note, whilst understanding Lanigan's purpose for including snippets of original Jamaican speech, it didn't work for me. Additionally I unfortunately still find the first person narrative less convincing, but this is obviously not a criticism of this book alone.
I would recommend this for fans of historical fiction of that era who are particularly interested in the area of racial tension and /of music.
Thank you to Book Sirens and Idee Fixe Press for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
This could just have been a straightforward account of how a musician from the period 1917 encounters racist beliefs, but it isn't. The author has endeavoured to make it more personal and add more interest and depth by ensconcing the main character in a very complicated personal battle. Again, this could have been more straightforward than it transpires to be but our musician must first fulfil her side of a bargain - one that would seem to be totally morally unethical. Whilst understanding the compelling need for her carrying out her action I somehow couldn't accept it - perhaps for such a significant deed I felt it was accorded too little attention in the story.
The plot, particularly its final twist, was highly engaging and should earn more than my 3 stars but this just didn't flow as well as I had hoped. On a very personal note, whilst understanding Lanigan's purpose for including snippets of original Jamaican speech, it didn't work for me. Additionally I unfortunately still find the first person narrative less convincing, but this is obviously not a criticism of this book alone.
I would recommend this for fans of historical fiction of that era who are particularly interested in the area of racial tension and /of music.
Thank you to Book Sirens and Idee Fixe Press for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I recommend Lucia’s War. It is quite well-written. Since a lot of the events in history regarding the treatment of women and especially of people who are not white and straight, were already known to me, I was not as surprised as some readers might be. Nevertheless, there were times I was saddened by the story. Overall, there is a hopeful message for thoughtful readers. Discussing it might lead to spoilers, however.
In these days of pondering how to truly convey that, “black lives matter” to those who do not want to understand, I think the book is timely. The hope I note in the story is subtle and some readers may not find It. Others are no doubt tired of how slowly justice comes. I understand that. Still, this story may touch some readers and I hope for that.
I recommend Lucia’s War. It is quite well-written. Since a lot of the events in history regarding the treatment of women and especially of people who are not white and straight, were already known to me, I was not as surprised as some readers might be. Nevertheless, there were times I was saddened by the story. Overall, there is a hopeful message for thoughtful readers. Discussing it might lead to spoilers, however.
In these days of pondering how to truly convey that, “black lives matter” to those who do not want to understand, I think the book is timely. The hope I note in the story is subtle and some readers may not find It. Others are no doubt tired of how slowly justice comes. I understand that. Still, this story may touch some readers and I hope for that.
July 30, 2020
I want to thank BookSIRENS for their free copy of 'Lucia's War'. My thoughts about the book are my own.
I chose this novel, because I really like to read about historical events and people. So I'm very happy with this wonderful story.
Lucia's War is very well and clearly written by Susan Lanigan.
She writes fluently and convincing.
I really wanted to know the end of the story. So a book to recommend to friends!
I chose this novel, because I really like to read about historical events and people. So I'm very happy with this wonderful story.
Lucia's War is very well and clearly written by Susan Lanigan.
She writes fluently and convincing.
I really wanted to know the end of the story. So a book to recommend to friends!
June 4, 2020
This book was really interesting, and the author has written a wonderful book.
There is such a range of emotions, action, adventures, mystery and twists in this one book, the author really has painted a wonderful picture.
I will look forward to reading more by this author.
There is such a range of emotions, action, adventures, mystery and twists in this one book, the author really has painted a wonderful picture.
I will look forward to reading more by this author.
July 24, 2020
This is the type of book that throws open the shutters and lets in the light on a pretty niche part of history that I knew very little about and I feel all the wiser after reading it.
I’m very grateful for this view of World War 1 from a woman’s point of view. Lucia – the heroine of the book was a very strong and well-rounded character. Totally believable. Lanigan is amazing the way she can weave the backstory of a character into her novels as she moves the story along. I quite liked the flashbacks and way the story went back and forth in time. It all comes together perfectly.
This story has deep roots and Lanigan pays homage to many strong real-life women in Lucia’s character. You can feel that even though this is a work of fiction, everything that happened to Lucia happened to real women and the tragedy is – the injustices that Lucia came up against are still happening to women in the world today. There are references to the scars the “Empire” left on the Caribbean and in particular – the women. There is also a heart-breaking look into a so called “Mother and Baby” home in Glasgow. Throughout, there is the fact that women, for so long, were at mercy of the patriarchy. Their fates were decided by fathers, brothers, dishonourable or honourable boyfriends and husbands. The women had to endure, survive, or escape whatever these men decided for them.
Lucia is a woman who is talented, graceful and honourable in everything she does, yet she is repeatedly being knocked down, hit with arrogance and false authority. It takes a lot of strength just to get back up again and keep going. It is her art – her singing voice and love for opera – that draws her up and out of the mire every time. She will eventually get the opportunity to excel thanks to the support of a real group - “the Coterie of Friends” that consider themselves lucky to be able to help her get to where she deserves to be – the stage.
I loved it so much on so many levels – the writing, the history, the music. I found I needed to google a few things I had never heard about before but am very happily enlightened now. I even listened to a few pieces of opera on Youtube that were mentioned that I would never normally have come across and I’m very grateful for these new finds!
This is such an eye opener – on the past, very relevant to the present and it ought to change the readers approach to the future.
I loved it from the very beginning and savoured every chapter, I read it at a very leisurely pace as I didn’t want it to end. I absolutely love Lanigan’s style and this novel is a real gift to the world.
I could see the BBC picking this up as a perfect mini-series! Absolutely loved it!
I’m very grateful for this view of World War 1 from a woman’s point of view. Lucia – the heroine of the book was a very strong and well-rounded character. Totally believable. Lanigan is amazing the way she can weave the backstory of a character into her novels as she moves the story along. I quite liked the flashbacks and way the story went back and forth in time. It all comes together perfectly.
This story has deep roots and Lanigan pays homage to many strong real-life women in Lucia’s character. You can feel that even though this is a work of fiction, everything that happened to Lucia happened to real women and the tragedy is – the injustices that Lucia came up against are still happening to women in the world today. There are references to the scars the “Empire” left on the Caribbean and in particular – the women. There is also a heart-breaking look into a so called “Mother and Baby” home in Glasgow. Throughout, there is the fact that women, for so long, were at mercy of the patriarchy. Their fates were decided by fathers, brothers, dishonourable or honourable boyfriends and husbands. The women had to endure, survive, or escape whatever these men decided for them.
Lucia is a woman who is talented, graceful and honourable in everything she does, yet she is repeatedly being knocked down, hit with arrogance and false authority. It takes a lot of strength just to get back up again and keep going. It is her art – her singing voice and love for opera – that draws her up and out of the mire every time. She will eventually get the opportunity to excel thanks to the support of a real group - “the Coterie of Friends” that consider themselves lucky to be able to help her get to where she deserves to be – the stage.
I loved it so much on so many levels – the writing, the history, the music. I found I needed to google a few things I had never heard about before but am very happily enlightened now. I even listened to a few pieces of opera on Youtube that were mentioned that I would never normally have come across and I’m very grateful for these new finds!
This is such an eye opener – on the past, very relevant to the present and it ought to change the readers approach to the future.
I loved it from the very beginning and savoured every chapter, I read it at a very leisurely pace as I didn’t want it to end. I absolutely love Lanigan’s style and this novel is a real gift to the world.
I could see the BBC picking this up as a perfect mini-series! Absolutely loved it!
June 10, 2021
It's the second part, but it was not a problem to understand it without knowing the first book.
I found the story interesting, not only because of a woman's perspective, but also because of a people of colour perspective. We have enough of stories about the WWI, but this one managed tp show some other stories and details I've never heard of before.
The style was sometimes a bit strange at the beginning, I was confused by many names and changes of time, but after a while I got used to it and was enjoying the book.
I found the story interesting, not only because of a woman's perspective, but also because of a people of colour perspective. We have enough of stories about the WWI, but this one managed tp show some other stories and details I've never heard of before.
The style was sometimes a bit strange at the beginning, I was confused by many names and changes of time, but after a while I got used to it and was enjoying the book.
December 30, 2020
*Note: The author kindly sent me a digital version of her book in exchange for my honest review. A huge thanks to the author for letting me be a part of it.*
- Book in One Sentence
Lucia's War by Susan Lanigan is a tale of existence and survival during World War I - a time when countries all over the world were torn apart by war and violence.
- Introduction
Before I review this book, I have a confession - this is my first time reading historical fiction for leisure. Therefore, I do not have a yardstick to measure it. That being said, the book received a positive response from me and has set the bar high for following stories of similar genres. Here are the reasons why...
Lucia's War is a story of a Jamaican woman who left her home country and came to England during World War I. Lucia had to endure a lot while navigating her life in war-stricken Britain. Clearly, it was not made easier for her due to her race and gender. The tale follows her experiences and story as she narrates it to a music critic, years after becoming a legendary opera singer.
- Time Jumps
The story progresses with two time periods - the 1910s and the 1950s. The novel starts in 1950 London, where Lucia, now a famous musician, gets interviewed by a music critic and begins telling her life story - everything that got her where she is at the point in time. At the beginning of the story, the changes in time periods were confusing to me. However, with time, it became easier for me. The time jumps, however, form an excellent way to keep us aware of the storyline.
- Themes
> Social Issues
Lucia's War covers a lot of topics that are relevant even to this day - such as patriarchy, racism, child abuse, forced adoption, sexuality, illegal abortion, and forced marriage. The author does a fine job of intertwining them altogether to produce a tale of motherhood and ambition. A lot of Lucia's misery stemmed from the oppression she experienced due to her race and gender. Apart from that, there are secondary characters that are also victims of patriarchy and race - irrespective of their gender and skin colour. With the current happenings worldwide, Lucia's War is undoubtedly an echo from the part, even if the world has progressed a fair bit from the social evils like these.
> Motherhood
The novel touches on the theme of motherhood a lot. The story highlights Lucia in two primary roles - mother and musician. Most of Lucia's feelings and emotions in the story are governed by these two roles. The novel touches upon the lengths a mother would go for the safety of her child. Lucia's experience of motherhood is complicated at best. Her turmoil and endeavours regarding this form the crux of the story.
> Lucia's Passion/Ambition
At the beginning of the story, we meet the famous opera singer, Lucia Percival. Throughout the novel, be it in the past or the present timeline, we do not forget Lucia's passion for singing. She is ambitious and determined to make it in the field of music. Her determination and perseverance lead her to her dream. But at what cost? What are the sacrifices that she made in order to fulfil her ambition? The story does an excellent job of covering that. Lucia Percival's determination and her strong sense of independence are worthy of praise. Especially during a time when her race and gender acted as a hindrance due to other people's ignorance. However, she was proud of her background and her talents. She was a strong and confident woman - qualities that led her to her famed destiny. She was a woman who knew what she wanted and did everything in her power to go for it.
- Depiction of Realism
As mentioned earlier, the novel mentions many topics that are relevant even to this day and age. The notion of race is an inseparable part of the story and forms a major driving force in the novel. Apart from that, we see reflections of patriarchy, child abuse, forced adoption, sexuality, illegal abortion, and forced marriage. With every chapter, these issues are reflected and show how they determine and define the fates of the characters in the story. The incidents taking place in the novel still hold importance in today's society with the recent happenings around the world.
- The Ending
The ending was totally unexpected for me. By the end of Part II, the story is in full force, and the climax was steadily approaching. The conclusion was surprising yet pleasant. I would not spoil it for future readers. However, after all the trials and tribulations that the protagonist went through, I am happy with how the story ended. It was a deserving end.
- Final Take
Lucia's War is one of those books that deserves a lot of recognition. The story covered a lot of issues and themes in the novel. However, the author does an outstanding job of stringing them together into a single and coherent flow. I would definitely recommend people out there to check it out. You would not be disappointed! The book is one of my top reads this year, and I am happy to end the year on a good, bookish note.
- Book in One Sentence
Lucia's War by Susan Lanigan is a tale of existence and survival during World War I - a time when countries all over the world were torn apart by war and violence.
- Introduction
Before I review this book, I have a confession - this is my first time reading historical fiction for leisure. Therefore, I do not have a yardstick to measure it. That being said, the book received a positive response from me and has set the bar high for following stories of similar genres. Here are the reasons why...
Lucia's War is a story of a Jamaican woman who left her home country and came to England during World War I. Lucia had to endure a lot while navigating her life in war-stricken Britain. Clearly, it was not made easier for her due to her race and gender. The tale follows her experiences and story as she narrates it to a music critic, years after becoming a legendary opera singer.
- Time Jumps
The story progresses with two time periods - the 1910s and the 1950s. The novel starts in 1950 London, where Lucia, now a famous musician, gets interviewed by a music critic and begins telling her life story - everything that got her where she is at the point in time. At the beginning of the story, the changes in time periods were confusing to me. However, with time, it became easier for me. The time jumps, however, form an excellent way to keep us aware of the storyline.
- Themes
> Social Issues
Lucia's War covers a lot of topics that are relevant even to this day - such as patriarchy, racism, child abuse, forced adoption, sexuality, illegal abortion, and forced marriage. The author does a fine job of intertwining them altogether to produce a tale of motherhood and ambition. A lot of Lucia's misery stemmed from the oppression she experienced due to her race and gender. Apart from that, there are secondary characters that are also victims of patriarchy and race - irrespective of their gender and skin colour. With the current happenings worldwide, Lucia's War is undoubtedly an echo from the part, even if the world has progressed a fair bit from the social evils like these.
> Motherhood
The novel touches on the theme of motherhood a lot. The story highlights Lucia in two primary roles - mother and musician. Most of Lucia's feelings and emotions in the story are governed by these two roles. The novel touches upon the lengths a mother would go for the safety of her child. Lucia's experience of motherhood is complicated at best. Her turmoil and endeavours regarding this form the crux of the story.
> Lucia's Passion/Ambition
At the beginning of the story, we meet the famous opera singer, Lucia Percival. Throughout the novel, be it in the past or the present timeline, we do not forget Lucia's passion for singing. She is ambitious and determined to make it in the field of music. Her determination and perseverance lead her to her dream. But at what cost? What are the sacrifices that she made in order to fulfil her ambition? The story does an excellent job of covering that. Lucia Percival's determination and her strong sense of independence are worthy of praise. Especially during a time when her race and gender acted as a hindrance due to other people's ignorance. However, she was proud of her background and her talents. She was a strong and confident woman - qualities that led her to her famed destiny. She was a woman who knew what she wanted and did everything in her power to go for it.
- Depiction of Realism
As mentioned earlier, the novel mentions many topics that are relevant even to this day and age. The notion of race is an inseparable part of the story and forms a major driving force in the novel. Apart from that, we see reflections of patriarchy, child abuse, forced adoption, sexuality, illegal abortion, and forced marriage. With every chapter, these issues are reflected and show how they determine and define the fates of the characters in the story. The incidents taking place in the novel still hold importance in today's society with the recent happenings around the world.
- The Ending
The ending was totally unexpected for me. By the end of Part II, the story is in full force, and the climax was steadily approaching. The conclusion was surprising yet pleasant. I would not spoil it for future readers. However, after all the trials and tribulations that the protagonist went through, I am happy with how the story ended. It was a deserving end.
- Final Take
Lucia's War is one of those books that deserves a lot of recognition. The story covered a lot of issues and themes in the novel. However, the author does an outstanding job of stringing them together into a single and coherent flow. I would definitely recommend people out there to check it out. You would not be disappointed! The book is one of my top reads this year, and I am happy to end the year on a good, bookish note.
June 20, 2020
This is outstanding. Historical fiction at its best. A very pacy pageturner. This will transport you to WWI London.
Lucia is a Jamaican nurse with ambitions to sing Opera. What an eventful life she leads. Flawed and carrying alot of trauma, many of her choices are not prudent. But I really cared what happened her. The fierceness of her love, how she dealt with casual as well as very pointed racism and her big dreams are endearing. The men in her life are well-drawn too. All the characters are.
It's well-researched (and i would be the first to criticise if it was not) but Susan wears her learning lightly. Susan's deep knowledge of the era does not get in the way of a good story. Parts of the tale are sad but there are moments of fun too- WB Yeats is satirised. No harm.
Just as music is Lucia's gift, writing is Susan's. Looking forward to the next one already.
Lucia is a Jamaican nurse with ambitions to sing Opera. What an eventful life she leads. Flawed and carrying alot of trauma, many of her choices are not prudent. But I really cared what happened her. The fierceness of her love, how she dealt with casual as well as very pointed racism and her big dreams are endearing. The men in her life are well-drawn too. All the characters are.
It's well-researched (and i would be the first to criticise if it was not) but Susan wears her learning lightly. Susan's deep knowledge of the era does not get in the way of a good story. Parts of the tale are sad but there are moments of fun too- WB Yeats is satirised. No harm.
Just as music is Lucia's gift, writing is Susan's. Looking forward to the next one already.
December 2, 2021
Lucia's War is a fabulous read by Susan Lanigan. I enjoyed Lucia's story so much. It is getting five stars from me.
April 28, 2021
The early part of the twentieth century was largely overshadowed by the catastrophic events of the First World War and for Jamaican Lucia Percival life is going to turn out very differently from what she expected. Being part of the Voluntary Aid Detachment, Lucia works as a VAD during some of the worst conflicts of the war, memories of will which never leave her and which shape her destiny. During the early part of this troubled century living life as a black woman was difficult as racism was neither covert nor undisclosed, and whilst Lucia suffered this ghastly prejudice with stoicism and a considered resignation it didn't make it any easier to bear nor excused its narrow-mindedness.
We pick up the story in a dual time frame, that of 1917 when Lucia finds herself living in London, and later in 1950 when Lucia is a very different woman but one who has carried her secrets close and whose vulnerability continues to dominate. Lucia has a sublime gift for music, and singing, and it is this gift which will cut through her defenses and allow her to succeed in a world where to be both female, and black, was practically a none starter.
Whilst this story highlights this struggle to succeed, it also takes us back, through Lucia's thoughtful narration, to the events which have brought her to this place and time and by cleverly inserting some Jamaican patois Lucia comes alive in our imagination and the author's thoughtful storytelling allows us to follow every step of her journey. Lucia's War may start during the early part of the twentieth century but as the story moves on it becomes obvious that perhaps, for this brave and stalwart woman Lucia's own personal war never truly ends.
Rich in history, imaginatively written, and with a strong sense of the social and prejudicial injustices which were rife at this time, Lucia's War is another thought provoking novel from this talented writer.
We pick up the story in a dual time frame, that of 1917 when Lucia finds herself living in London, and later in 1950 when Lucia is a very different woman but one who has carried her secrets close and whose vulnerability continues to dominate. Lucia has a sublime gift for music, and singing, and it is this gift which will cut through her defenses and allow her to succeed in a world where to be both female, and black, was practically a none starter.
Whilst this story highlights this struggle to succeed, it also takes us back, through Lucia's thoughtful narration, to the events which have brought her to this place and time and by cleverly inserting some Jamaican patois Lucia comes alive in our imagination and the author's thoughtful storytelling allows us to follow every step of her journey. Lucia's War may start during the early part of the twentieth century but as the story moves on it becomes obvious that perhaps, for this brave and stalwart woman Lucia's own personal war never truly ends.
Rich in history, imaginatively written, and with a strong sense of the social and prejudicial injustices which were rife at this time, Lucia's War is another thought provoking novel from this talented writer.
May 1, 2021
Lucia's War is unlike any book I have ever read because unlike most book set during this era this novel is about a young Jamaican woman who has the most amazing operatic voice, but she faces discrimination simply because of the colour of her skin. But this novel is not just about a young woman's dream of becoming an opera singer, it is also about love, war, and loss. You will certainly need some tissues close at hand while you read this book because you are going to need them. I would also suggest that you find a quiet afternoon to yourself because once started this novel was next to impossible to put down.
There is quite the cast of characters in this novel and they all have a direct impact on Lucia's life - some for the better, and some for the worse. It is in a way a very tragic story, for love has no place when your path in life is dictated by the colour of your skin.
I thought this novel was brilliant from start to finish, the writing is exquisite, the characters shine through with a strong sense of realism. This is one of those books that I could happily read over and over again and never tire of. This novel is a MUST READ!
*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for review consideration.
There is quite the cast of characters in this novel and they all have a direct impact on Lucia's life - some for the better, and some for the worse. It is in a way a very tragic story, for love has no place when your path in life is dictated by the colour of your skin.
I thought this novel was brilliant from start to finish, the writing is exquisite, the characters shine through with a strong sense of realism. This is one of those books that I could happily read over and over again and never tire of. This novel is a MUST READ!
*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for review consideration.
August 18, 2020
From a dramatic beginning unfolds a story that encompasses race, sexuality, war, love, and music.
Lucia Percival is an opera singer about to perform her last concert, although we first encounter her much earlier in her life when she is pulled from the River Clyde in Glasgow. How she got there is only part of her story.
As a young black woman in London around the time of the First World War, Lucia meets budding composer Arthur Rosewell and they strike up a close friendship. She eventually achieves her life's ambition, although this comes at great personal cost.
The story is well written and the characters and their behaviour feel realistic. Lucia is sympathetically drawn so that even her wrong choices seem inevitable. The ending made me smile.
Difficult subjects, such as racism, sexuality, forbidden love, child abuse, and forced adoption, are all handled adeptly. I felt drawn in by the narrative and was rooting for Lucia to succeed.
It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to read a free review copy of this book. Many thanks to the publisher for allowing me to access this via BookSirens, in return for an honest appraisal.
Lucia Percival is an opera singer about to perform her last concert, although we first encounter her much earlier in her life when she is pulled from the River Clyde in Glasgow. How she got there is only part of her story.
As a young black woman in London around the time of the First World War, Lucia meets budding composer Arthur Rosewell and they strike up a close friendship. She eventually achieves her life's ambition, although this comes at great personal cost.
The story is well written and the characters and their behaviour feel realistic. Lucia is sympathetically drawn so that even her wrong choices seem inevitable. The ending made me smile.
Difficult subjects, such as racism, sexuality, forbidden love, child abuse, and forced adoption, are all handled adeptly. I felt drawn in by the narrative and was rooting for Lucia to succeed.
It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to read a free review copy of this book. Many thanks to the publisher for allowing me to access this via BookSirens, in return for an honest appraisal.
May 3, 2021
“You cannot let future jewels be stolen from you by past sadness.”
This phenomenal book deserves more than the meagre review I can provide.
Lucia Percival is a Jamaican exile with high hopes of making it in London’s musical scene in 1917. Being black, she faces unsurmountable obstacles and it’s her drive and determination that carry her through the hardship and heartache. Lucia is proud of her heritage and discrimination is just one thread of her story. She also faces the horrors of war, abandonment, and loss. Despite all this, she fights to escape in her music. Lanigan’s prose highlight Lucia’s tenacity and determination at a time in history when she could be least appreciated.
Readers will instantly appreciate the depth of knowledge and meticulous research that went into this masterpiece. It’s a passionately told story about Black history during the war years, written by a gifted author and absolutely worthy of your time investment.
I was unaware that this tale continues the 2014 release of “White Feathers” but it did not detract from my understanding nor enjoyment.
This phenomenal book deserves more than the meagre review I can provide.
Lucia Percival is a Jamaican exile with high hopes of making it in London’s musical scene in 1917. Being black, she faces unsurmountable obstacles and it’s her drive and determination that carry her through the hardship and heartache. Lucia is proud of her heritage and discrimination is just one thread of her story. She also faces the horrors of war, abandonment, and loss. Despite all this, she fights to escape in her music. Lanigan’s prose highlight Lucia’s tenacity and determination at a time in history when she could be least appreciated.
Readers will instantly appreciate the depth of knowledge and meticulous research that went into this masterpiece. It’s a passionately told story about Black history during the war years, written by a gifted author and absolutely worthy of your time investment.
I was unaware that this tale continues the 2014 release of “White Feathers” but it did not detract from my understanding nor enjoyment.
November 5, 2020
This is indeed a book to be savoured, with so many layers and nuances of emotion. The story, narrated by Lucia the protagonist, sweeps one through a whirlwind of settings and sensory experiences, from the devastation of war to the sublime B flat sung at a Christmas carol service which leads to a life of acclaim as an opera singer. We meet Lucia when she is hauled, sodden and bleeding from the stench and filth of Glasgow's dockside river water and travel through time and events with her to Parisian days scented by freshly brewed coffee from a cafetiere.
Through her eyes we experience the hurt of being judged merely by the colour of one's skin and we feel the deepest tenderness and love that a woman can experience.
This is a book which leaves me, having read it through to the revelation of the very last word, yearning to go back and re-read every page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Through her eyes we experience the hurt of being judged merely by the colour of one's skin and we feel the deepest tenderness and love that a woman can experience.
This is a book which leaves me, having read it through to the revelation of the very last word, yearning to go back and re-read every page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 29, 2020
I received a digital copy of this book through Book Sirens, and I am please to give it my honest review. Although the setting is London after the Second World War, it goes back and forth in time pretty flawlessly as Lucia tells her story to a music critic. A Jamaican woman who had emigrated earlier in the century, Lucia has become a renowned opera singer in spite of poverty, racial prejudice and her "secret", which is so common in fiction and in this case, something that could destroy her career. The descriptions of the Negro culture in 20th century London are believable, and the comparisons to the United States in the same period seem spot-on. There were no stereotypes here, the characters seemed like real people, and while things aren't tied up in a neat little package, the book comes to a satisfying ending. I will read more of Susan Lanigan's fiction.
June 21, 2021
Meticulously researched book, the author Susan Lanigan did an extraordinary work portraying the London society, where the story of the book is mostly set in, during the years of WWI and in the 1950's future, looking at it thru the eyes of Lucia Percival, a young Jamaican african american girl.
Lucia, after working as a nurse at the front finds herself pregnant by a Scottish doctor, what follows is the story of her life, the look for her child, and her struggles as an aspiring soprano opera singer with the discrimination that the color of skin entails in that society at that time.
Engrossing book that makes you think about race, prejudices, gender and the struggles to make a life out of, and despite of, the obstacles that society imposes and throws at you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucia, after working as a nurse at the front finds herself pregnant by a Scottish doctor, what follows is the story of her life, the look for her child, and her struggles as an aspiring soprano opera singer with the discrimination that the color of skin entails in that society at that time.
Engrossing book that makes you think about race, prejudices, gender and the struggles to make a life out of, and despite of, the obstacles that society imposes and throws at you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 23, 2021
A story of Britain during the war years seen from a different perspective, through the eyes of a black women. It took me a while to warm to the main character, Lucia, but maybe thats the point. She hides her real self to fit in, but as the story progresses you see how she gavers other 'misfits' of society as her support group, you see what traumas have led her to where she is. The disappointment and disapproval of her family, the prejudice that black people experienced everyday, the effort, drive and luck it took to suceed.
The book is well written and the story flows well. I enjoyed the different aspects of it, drama, music and crime all coming together to make a very enjoyable story.
I received an advance copy of this book for free, and am leaving a review voluntarily
The book is well written and the story flows well. I enjoyed the different aspects of it, drama, music and crime all coming together to make a very enjoyable story.
I received an advance copy of this book for free, and am leaving a review voluntarily
July 23, 2021
Lucia’s War by Susan Lanigan – author of White Feathers – takes us to London and Glasgow 1917/18 up to 1950. Protagonist Lucia Percival is a Jamaican exile and a talented Opera singer. Despite the odds Lucia overcomes significant obstacles, such as poverty, motherhood and lost love. This is a story of one woman’s survival and the social stratification in London during WW1. Lucia struggles to find her place in a male dominated world where masculine values tend to discriminate against women, particularly a woman of different colour.
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