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The Forgotten Orphan
The USA Today Bestseller!
A world at war
A secret from her past
A chance to be together…
A moving and compelling historical novel about love, second chances and resilience in the darkest of times.
Southampton 1940
Abandoned when she was tiny, Maisie Reynolds was separated from her twin brother and forced to grow up in Holly Bush orphanage – a place where she has never known love or kindness.
But with the world at war and Hitler’s devastating bombs coming ever closer, fate has other plans for Maisie and a secret from her past changes everything.
When she meets handsome Canadian paratrooper, Cam, Maisie learns that love might not be lost to her after all – but not before her past life and D Day bring a tragic twist to her happiness.
Readers are loving The Forgotten Orphan:
‘Absolutely fantastic…Boy I wasn't disappointed’ Brid
‘Breathtaking…what an inspirational story’ Booklover Bev
‘Just finished The Forgotten Orphan and just felt love and tears for all Maisie went through…love this author’ Patricia
‘So emotional, so moving, my heart hurt reading it’ Abby
‘A must read…The writing is smooth and the plot never ceases to surprise the reader. I didn’t want this book to end’ Martha
‘You certainly won’t forget reading it…I confess it’s the first book I have read by Glynis Peters but be reassured it won’t be the last’ Elaine
‘Be prepared for tears’ Susan
‘I love when a book draws you into the story and it feels like you are living it with them’ Jacqueline
‘I've read many historical fiction novels and this was one of the kindest ones for my heart, but it also kept those deep heartbreaking moments that make WWII novels so memorable’ Ines
‘If you love Ellie Dean and Kitty Neale…It’s like sticky toffee pudding on a cold winters day, a hug within a book’ Reader review
A world at war
A secret from her past
A chance to be together…
A moving and compelling historical novel about love, second chances and resilience in the darkest of times.
Southampton 1940
Abandoned when she was tiny, Maisie Reynolds was separated from her twin brother and forced to grow up in Holly Bush orphanage – a place where she has never known love or kindness.
But with the world at war and Hitler’s devastating bombs coming ever closer, fate has other plans for Maisie and a secret from her past changes everything.
When she meets handsome Canadian paratrooper, Cam, Maisie learns that love might not be lost to her after all – but not before her past life and D Day bring a tragic twist to her happiness.
Readers are loving The Forgotten Orphan:
‘Absolutely fantastic…Boy I wasn't disappointed’ Brid
‘Breathtaking…what an inspirational story’ Booklover Bev
‘Just finished The Forgotten Orphan and just felt love and tears for all Maisie went through…love this author’ Patricia
‘So emotional, so moving, my heart hurt reading it’ Abby
‘A must read…The writing is smooth and the plot never ceases to surprise the reader. I didn’t want this book to end’ Martha
‘You certainly won’t forget reading it…I confess it’s the first book I have read by Glynis Peters but be reassured it won’t be the last’ Elaine
‘Be prepared for tears’ Susan
‘I love when a book draws you into the story and it feels like you are living it with them’ Jacqueline
‘I've read many historical fiction novels and this was one of the kindest ones for my heart, but it also kept those deep heartbreaking moments that make WWII novels so memorable’ Ines
‘If you love Ellie Dean and Kitty Neale…It’s like sticky toffee pudding on a cold winters day, a hug within a book’ Reader review
400 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2020
571 people are currently reading
5354 people want to read
About the author
Glynis Peters
13 books352 followersI write historical novels set in WWII Britain, and live by the sea in Essex.
One More Chapter / HarperCollins
USA TODAY BESTSELLER 2019/2020/2021
GLOBE AND MAIL BESTSELLER 2019/2020/2021
TORONTO STAR BESTSELLER 2019/2020
NEW YORK BEST SELLERS AWARD (Gold) 2019
AMAZON UK AND USA BESTSELLER 2019 / 2020/2021
Newsletter / Giveaway Opportunities
https://www.glynispetersauthor.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/glynispeters...
One More Chapter / HarperCollins
USA TODAY BESTSELLER 2019/2020/2021
GLOBE AND MAIL BESTSELLER 2019/2020/2021
TORONTO STAR BESTSELLER 2019/2020
NEW YORK BEST SELLERS AWARD (Gold) 2019
AMAZON UK AND USA BESTSELLER 2019 / 2020/2021
Newsletter / Giveaway Opportunities
https://www.glynispetersauthor.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/glynispeters...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 338 reviews
November 20, 2020
Maisie Reynolds was abandoned at Holly Bush Orphanage in Southampton when she was about four years old and with her twin brother Jack. Left in the care of Matron Gloria Mason, Maisie had a miserable childhood, while other children were adopted including her own brother she was always over looked and it hurt. She stayed at the orphanage, Maisie loved to look after the children, she wanted them to feel that someone cared about them and she made a difference in many children’s lives.
England’s at war, it’s no longer safe for the children to stay in London and the orphanage will be closed. It’s going to be used as a rehabilitation and recovery centre for injured soldiers. Maisie doesn’t have a lot of confidence, she has no qualifications or skills and she has no idea what she will do when it closes? Maisie’s kind, helpful, efficient, and she’s offered work at the center and becomes the housekeeper. Maisie’s always plagued by self doubt; she wants to know who she is, why was she left at the orphanage and what happened to her brother Jack? She meets Canadian paratrooper Harry Cameron or Cam, he’s from British Columbia, they fall in love, the war drags on and she continues to look for clues about her past.
The Forgotten Orphan is a story about Maisie’s quest to find answers about her identity; she will uncover hidden secrets, discover things she wasn’t expecting and it’s shocking. But Maisie is tenacious, determined, she has an incredible big heart, so does Cam, he stands by her and together they overcome many obstacles. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review; I enjoyed the story and four stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
England’s at war, it’s no longer safe for the children to stay in London and the orphanage will be closed. It’s going to be used as a rehabilitation and recovery centre for injured soldiers. Maisie doesn’t have a lot of confidence, she has no qualifications or skills and she has no idea what she will do when it closes? Maisie’s kind, helpful, efficient, and she’s offered work at the center and becomes the housekeeper. Maisie’s always plagued by self doubt; she wants to know who she is, why was she left at the orphanage and what happened to her brother Jack? She meets Canadian paratrooper Harry Cameron or Cam, he’s from British Columbia, they fall in love, the war drags on and she continues to look for clues about her past.
The Forgotten Orphan is a story about Maisie’s quest to find answers about her identity; she will uncover hidden secrets, discover things she wasn’t expecting and it’s shocking. But Maisie is tenacious, determined, she has an incredible big heart, so does Cam, he stands by her and together they overcome many obstacles. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review; I enjoyed the story and four stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
August 24, 2021
4.5 Wonderful read - the historical backdrop of the nursing and caring of returned soldiers suffering from what we now know is Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. Built on top of that the story of a child and children housed in an uncaring orphanage. Beautifully told. Unputdownable.
Glynis Peter's is now another favourite author.
Glynis Peter's is now another favourite author.
December 3, 2020
Maisie Reynolds was abandoned when she was little, separated from her twin brother and forced to grow up in Holly Bush Orphanage. The world was at war and Hitler's devastating bombs were getting closer. Fate had other plans for Maisie and a secret from her past changes everything. When she meets Canadian paratrooper, Cam, Maisie learns that love might not be lost to her. But not before D Day and her past life brings a tragic twist.
Maisie grew up in an orphanage and she was the last one left when it closed. Maisie never got adopted or rehomed. She was always left out and unloved. She didn't know why she was treated differently she never knew what had happened to her twin brother, Jack. This is the story of Maisie coming of age, falling for a Canadian who will change her life. A story of hope, courage, forgiveness and acceptance. This is a well written story of romance and mystery set around WWII.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #GlynisPeters for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maisie grew up in an orphanage and she was the last one left when it closed. Maisie never got adopted or rehomed. She was always left out and unloved. She didn't know why she was treated differently she never knew what had happened to her twin brother, Jack. This is the story of Maisie coming of age, falling for a Canadian who will change her life. A story of hope, courage, forgiveness and acceptance. This is a well written story of romance and mystery set around WWII.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #GlynisPeters for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2021
DNF @ 31%
I have to say I'm incredibly disappointed in this book. I was so excited when I read the synopsis and thought I'd come across a treasure among 99 cent kindle books. Alas, I was mistaken. I read other reviews that said this book reads like a YA and I have to somewhat agree. Young Adult is one of my preferred genres as a reader and I've read plenty in the genre that was well written. This book reads like a YA written in the 2010's to 2013's era and it's a let down truly.
I enjoyed the very beginning of the book, even with the more juvenile writing, and it seemed to hold a lot of promise for exciting plot points like finding out more about Maisie's past and what on earth has become of her twin brother. These plots soon fall to the wayside, however, very early on when you are packed full will filler that you didn't ask for.
Not only does Maisie have just about everything fall into her lap so very conveniently, but she has absolutely no personality (and for that matter none of the other characters in this novel do either). The writing seemed too choppy for me and didn't flow as nicely as a lot of historical fiction (and other novels) that I've read in the past. Also instalove. So much instalove.
I feel like this is probably a good book if you're a teen and just dipping your toe into historical fiction, but this book is definitely not for me. It's getting 2 stars simply for the intriguing plot in the beginning and the fact that it was easy to read until I gave up on it. Plus it's not the worst book in the world but I'm certainly in no mood to waste time reading something that doesn't capture my full attention when I have plenty of books that will.
I have to say I'm incredibly disappointed in this book. I was so excited when I read the synopsis and thought I'd come across a treasure among 99 cent kindle books. Alas, I was mistaken. I read other reviews that said this book reads like a YA and I have to somewhat agree. Young Adult is one of my preferred genres as a reader and I've read plenty in the genre that was well written. This book reads like a YA written in the 2010's to 2013's era and it's a let down truly.
I enjoyed the very beginning of the book, even with the more juvenile writing, and it seemed to hold a lot of promise for exciting plot points like finding out more about Maisie's past and what on earth has become of her twin brother. These plots soon fall to the wayside, however, very early on when you are packed full will filler that you didn't ask for.
Not only does Maisie have just about everything fall into her lap so very conveniently, but she has absolutely no personality (and for that matter none of the other characters in this novel do either). The writing seemed too choppy for me and didn't flow as nicely as a lot of historical fiction (and other novels) that I've read in the past. Also instalove. So much instalove.
I feel like this is probably a good book if you're a teen and just dipping your toe into historical fiction, but this book is definitely not for me. It's getting 2 stars simply for the intriguing plot in the beginning and the fact that it was easy to read until I gave up on it. Plus it's not the worst book in the world but I'm certainly in no mood to waste time reading something that doesn't capture my full attention when I have plenty of books that will.
October 25, 2020
Wow I just finished reading The forgotten Orphan by Glynis Peters and what an amazing book this is.
When Masie Reynolds was small, she arrived at the Holly Bush Orphanage with her twin brother Jack. In time she watched the other kids get adopted and even her brother Jack got a new family of his own. But never Masie with her red hair. The people at the orphanage thought she was trouble so their she stayed. But Maisie was fair from trouble. She was always looking after the other kids without a thank you or any love. Even though her life was hard she was always positive. And vowed that she will one day meet her brother again. The orphanage is the only life she knew. The only respite she had was with her friends Charlie and Joyce. She was at the orphanage until it closed and turned into convalescence home for the soldiers that got injured in the war. She had no meaning in life until she met Harry Cameron or Cam for short, a Canadian soldier and then her life changed.
Thank you Harper Collins One more Chapter for the copy of The forgotten orphan. I absolutely love this story. The is a heart wrenching story of Maisie trying to find someone to love her and finding her own place in the world. But with every obstacle that came towards her she seemed to overcome it. She put others first always before her own. This is such a beautifully written story. If you are a fan of historical novels like this one you will love this one too. I highly recommend.
When Masie Reynolds was small, she arrived at the Holly Bush Orphanage with her twin brother Jack. In time she watched the other kids get adopted and even her brother Jack got a new family of his own. But never Masie with her red hair. The people at the orphanage thought she was trouble so their she stayed. But Maisie was fair from trouble. She was always looking after the other kids without a thank you or any love. Even though her life was hard she was always positive. And vowed that she will one day meet her brother again. The orphanage is the only life she knew. The only respite she had was with her friends Charlie and Joyce. She was at the orphanage until it closed and turned into convalescence home for the soldiers that got injured in the war. She had no meaning in life until she met Harry Cameron or Cam for short, a Canadian soldier and then her life changed.
Thank you Harper Collins One more Chapter for the copy of The forgotten orphan. I absolutely love this story. The is a heart wrenching story of Maisie trying to find someone to love her and finding her own place in the world. But with every obstacle that came towards her she seemed to overcome it. She put others first always before her own. This is such a beautifully written story. If you are a fan of historical novels like this one you will love this one too. I highly recommend.
Want to read
February 17, 2022Maisie.
Abandoned in an orphanage with her brother.
Lots of children get new homes and are adopted including her brother.
She’s overlooked.
Why?
She helps the children within the orphanage to feel wanted and loved.
Maisie grown.
Maisie has wondered about her family and where is her brother now?
What unfolds is disastrous and intriguing and yet, horrifying (to me). This gave me goosebumps
Abandoned in an orphanage with her brother.
Lots of children get new homes and are adopted including her brother.
She’s overlooked.
Why?
She helps the children within the orphanage to feel wanted and loved.
Maisie grown.
Maisie has wondered about her family and where is her brother now?
What unfolds is disastrous and intriguing and yet, horrifying (to me). This gave me goosebumps
October 28, 2020
A Redhead named Maise
Maise arrived at the orphanage with her twin brother as a very young child. Her brother Jack was adopted, but she remained at the orphanage. It was a sad and unhappy place to be, but it was home to Maise. She is a take charge person and when the war started the Orphanage was converted to a convalescent home and hospital for wounded and returning soldiers. Maisie had nowhere else to go so she stayed as the housekeeper and later trained as a nurse's aide.
One day returning home from a trip to town to visit her friends she met a young Canadian officer at the bus stop. She never thought she would meet and fall in love. She is happy, but a secret from her past and an old friend from the orphanage try to steal her happiness.
Maise is a take charge person on the outside with a heart as soft as a feather pillow on the inside. She rolls with the punches and comes up fighting. She strived to always do her best regardless of the conditions. This is one courageous girl, especially during the war.
You could feel the sadness, you could experience the torment but written in a gentle way. I definitely felt the love between Cameron and Maisie. The Characters were wonderful and very well written into the story, even the character of Simon. The atmosphere and the surroundings were portrayed very well. I could almost feel the room shake from the bombs falling. I loved the beautiful descriptions of the Canadian wilderness, it sounded so lovely and so peaceful.
This book was very well written, a joy to read, and I recommend it.
Thanks to Glynis Peters, Harper Collins U.K., One More Chapter, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy for an honest review.
Maise arrived at the orphanage with her twin brother as a very young child. Her brother Jack was adopted, but she remained at the orphanage. It was a sad and unhappy place to be, but it was home to Maise. She is a take charge person and when the war started the Orphanage was converted to a convalescent home and hospital for wounded and returning soldiers. Maisie had nowhere else to go so she stayed as the housekeeper and later trained as a nurse's aide.
One day returning home from a trip to town to visit her friends she met a young Canadian officer at the bus stop. She never thought she would meet and fall in love. She is happy, but a secret from her past and an old friend from the orphanage try to steal her happiness.
Maise is a take charge person on the outside with a heart as soft as a feather pillow on the inside. She rolls with the punches and comes up fighting. She strived to always do her best regardless of the conditions. This is one courageous girl, especially during the war.
You could feel the sadness, you could experience the torment but written in a gentle way. I definitely felt the love between Cameron and Maisie. The Characters were wonderful and very well written into the story, even the character of Simon. The atmosphere and the surroundings were portrayed very well. I could almost feel the room shake from the bombs falling. I loved the beautiful descriptions of the Canadian wilderness, it sounded so lovely and so peaceful.
This book was very well written, a joy to read, and I recommend it.
Thanks to Glynis Peters, Harper Collins U.K., One More Chapter, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy for an honest review.
April 24, 2021
Maisie and her twin brother were left at Holly Bush orphanage with few memories of their mother. Jack gets adopted by a family but Maisie is left to live out her years at the orphanage. Maisie was made to feel like a burden by the Matron and staff of the orphanage, but Maisie went above and beyond and treated the other children with love that she never got as a child and She made a difference in their lives.
The war rages and the children aren’t safe at the orphanage anymore, so it gets shut down and the children are shipped off but Maisie stays and works in the now rehabilitation center for soldiers and quickly proves what an asset she is-she’s kind, helpful, steady efficient and strong.
A chance encounter leads her to meet Cam, who she sees a future with despite him going off into the war and the risks that go with that. As well, she always wonders who she really is and where her twin brother might be, until through a chain of soldiers, word gets to him that she’s still at the last place he saw her as a kid and they are reunited again!
I really enjoyed this perspective to the war story and life of soldiers and I loved how strong Maisie and the other women in her life were-taking care of life while the men were in battle.
Thanks to Harper Collins/One More Chapter and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
The war rages and the children aren’t safe at the orphanage anymore, so it gets shut down and the children are shipped off but Maisie stays and works in the now rehabilitation center for soldiers and quickly proves what an asset she is-she’s kind, helpful, steady efficient and strong.
A chance encounter leads her to meet Cam, who she sees a future with despite him going off into the war and the risks that go with that. As well, she always wonders who she really is and where her twin brother might be, until through a chain of soldiers, word gets to him that she’s still at the last place he saw her as a kid and they are reunited again!
I really enjoyed this perspective to the war story and life of soldiers and I loved how strong Maisie and the other women in her life were-taking care of life while the men were in battle.
Thanks to Harper Collins/One More Chapter and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
September 17, 2020
This is a story about an orphan girl in Southhampton, England during WWII and it was amazing to read about this girl's rise in life and the way her character developed and bloomed.
In this book we follow Maisie Reynolds, an orphan at Holly Bush Orphanage that is separated at early age from her twin brother. She is forced to grow up without love or kindness while never losing the kindness in her own heart. That was without a doubt one of the most admirable traits of her character, in my opinion.
With the second world war, Maisie has her life completely changed as fate has other plans for her future, different from anything she has ever imagined.
When she meets Cam, a canadian paratrooper, she learns that maybe love is possible in her life after all.
This book made me incredibly happy, It was amazing to see Maisie grow as a person and as a character as she is forced to experience life in ways she never experienced before. I loved watching her discovering love and falling in love. It was such a cute and heartbreaking romance for sure, but we experience so many other types of love that Maisie is feeling for the first time.
I have to say that one of my favourite parts was this girl's kindness. Maisie faced every obstacle with a kindness that was deeply challenged by the atrocities of WWII but that never wavered. To experience such kindness and innocence in a time that is known for its despair and horrible moments was heartwarming.
I also loved Cam and her entire love story with him. It made me cry so many times.
I've read many historical fiction novels and this was one of the kindest ones for my heart, but it also kept those deep heartbreaking moments that make WWII novels so memorable. I definitely recommend this for you if you are starting to read WWII historical fiction or if you are looking for an easier (but of course never actually easy) one to read.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for giving me the chance to read this ARC.
In this book we follow Maisie Reynolds, an orphan at Holly Bush Orphanage that is separated at early age from her twin brother. She is forced to grow up without love or kindness while never losing the kindness in her own heart. That was without a doubt one of the most admirable traits of her character, in my opinion.
With the second world war, Maisie has her life completely changed as fate has other plans for her future, different from anything she has ever imagined.
When she meets Cam, a canadian paratrooper, she learns that maybe love is possible in her life after all.
This book made me incredibly happy, It was amazing to see Maisie grow as a person and as a character as she is forced to experience life in ways she never experienced before. I loved watching her discovering love and falling in love. It was such a cute and heartbreaking romance for sure, but we experience so many other types of love that Maisie is feeling for the first time.
I have to say that one of my favourite parts was this girl's kindness. Maisie faced every obstacle with a kindness that was deeply challenged by the atrocities of WWII but that never wavered. To experience such kindness and innocence in a time that is known for its despair and horrible moments was heartwarming.
I also loved Cam and her entire love story with him. It made me cry so many times.
I've read many historical fiction novels and this was one of the kindest ones for my heart, but it also kept those deep heartbreaking moments that make WWII novels so memorable. I definitely recommend this for you if you are starting to read WWII historical fiction or if you are looking for an easier (but of course never actually easy) one to read.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for giving me the chance to read this ARC.
March 29, 2021
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’m sorry but this was just horrible. I felt like this was written by a 12 year old and it was completely all over the place. The main character, Maisie, did nothing but annoy me the entire book. I would have DNF this book if I didn’t force myself to finish every book. Incredibly slow, boring, and pointless.
What was the point to this story? I don’t think there was one. I’m a little confused on how this was historical fiction as well because very little was mentioned about the actual war going on besides constant bombings.
Why were there SO MANY RANDOM CHARACTERS WITH RANDOM NAMES? Why did we need to know 4 different nurses AND each of their names? Why? All the names were so confusing and frustrating to continuously read about.
Also, the poems did nothing but distract and take away the actual story.
I also did not enjoy reading about the aspect of incest in this story. I feel like it could 100% have been left out of Maisie’s story and replaced with something much more simple.
1/5 ⭐️ would not recommend to anyone.
I’m sorry but this was just horrible. I felt like this was written by a 12 year old and it was completely all over the place. The main character, Maisie, did nothing but annoy me the entire book. I would have DNF this book if I didn’t force myself to finish every book. Incredibly slow, boring, and pointless.
What was the point to this story? I don’t think there was one. I’m a little confused on how this was historical fiction as well because very little was mentioned about the actual war going on besides constant bombings.
Why were there SO MANY RANDOM CHARACTERS WITH RANDOM NAMES? Why did we need to know 4 different nurses AND each of their names? Why? All the names were so confusing and frustrating to continuously read about.
Also, the poems did nothing but distract and take away the actual story.
I also did not enjoy reading about the aspect of incest in this story. I feel like it could 100% have been left out of Maisie’s story and replaced with something much more simple.
1/5 ⭐️ would not recommend to anyone.
June 30, 2021
100 pages in and had to give up. The writing in this book was sooo awful. I feel like I was reading something written by a 10 year old. I love historical fictions but this book claiming to be one is a hard PASS
July 30, 2021
First sentence: Maisie Reynolds peered through the grubby window of Holly Bush Orphanage.
Premise/plot: The Forgotten Orphan is historical fiction set in England during the Second World War. The book stars a young woman, Maisie Reynolds. She's lived at Holly Bush Orphanage since she was around four. She had a twin brother, Jack, but he was adopted out while she was not. Her years at the orphanage were hard--verbally abused perhaps a little physical as well when it comes to discipline. But now that she's coming of age, she may have more opportunities...
The first few chapters of the book is where most of the action occurs--for better or worse. The head matron dies. The next-in-line dies a few weeks later. Maisie--as the oldest--becomes stand-in matron of the orphanage. The orphanage receives words that it's being shut down. Holly Bush will now house nurses and soldiers. She can stay on as housekeeper/nurse-in-training. Oh. And she meets a Canadian soldier, Harry Cameron (aka Cam). Plenty is packed in the first handful of chapters.
The rest of the book--which is probably like seventy to eighty percent--is Maisie WAITING, WAITING, WAITING, WAITING, STILL WAITING for the war to be over.
My thoughts: I found The Forgotten Orphan to be a tedious read. Its 400 pages felt like 1000. I felt that having the book start in 1940 and having it drag out through the duration of the entire war might not have been the best choice. For covering so much time, so very little happens.
The book is neither plot driven, premise driven....or character driven. I think for me where it fell flat was in the characterization department. Maisie herself stars front and center. And perhaps if a reader makes a connection 100% with her, then the book might be worth the journey. But if you don't happen to make a full connection and care deeply about Maisie, there's little for you here.
I was disappointed with Maisie's relationships with other characters. I don't think the other characters were developed enough. Cam, her love interest, is the one we get the most scenes with. And I felt it was definitely a case of insta love. Which could legitimately happen--especially in war time. They met two or three times, agree to write letters, and then are in a committed, steady relationship long distance of course. We do get their correspondence. Perhaps for those that do see Cam and Maisie as this super couple may find these letters wonderful and romantic and swoon-worthy.
Maisie's relationships with others remained superficial in my opinion. Perhaps due to lack of scenes where stuff happens or deep, meaningful conversations happen?
Simon. I am confused why Simon is even in this story???? Why introduce him in the first place??? What does he add to the story??? I mean technically he is someone who provides a lead about her twin brother. But if that was all he was going to add to the story, why turn him into a #1 a**. I mean seriously this guy is MESSED UP. Multiple times he tries to sexually assault her. He beats up Cam. Does prison time--on unrelated charges. Just a complete wreck. And Maisie is torn up about whether or not to cut him out of her life because he was at Holly Bush with her at one point??? Like the guy just tried to assault you, why is it a question on IF you cut ties with him????
Jack. I felt this was manipulation. Her brother reappears (with super incredible cheesy dialogue) only to be KILLED in the war with a melodramatic death scene where she READS HER newest POEM to him as he's breathing out his last moments. POOR THING. YOUR POETRY IS NOT WHAT HE NEEDED TO HEAR.
The dialogue in places was just painful. Not all the time. Not always. There were a few times it just felt very scripted, very amateurish, very expected, uninspiring.
But by far the most painful aspect of this one was Maisie thinking she was a poet. She writes poetry throughout these years that readers have to sludge through.
The World War II setting could not save this one--in my opinion. I wanted ALL of my time back.
Premise/plot: The Forgotten Orphan is historical fiction set in England during the Second World War. The book stars a young woman, Maisie Reynolds. She's lived at Holly Bush Orphanage since she was around four. She had a twin brother, Jack, but he was adopted out while she was not. Her years at the orphanage were hard--verbally abused perhaps a little physical as well when it comes to discipline. But now that she's coming of age, she may have more opportunities...
The first few chapters of the book is where most of the action occurs--for better or worse. The head matron dies. The next-in-line dies a few weeks later. Maisie--as the oldest--becomes stand-in matron of the orphanage. The orphanage receives words that it's being shut down. Holly Bush will now house nurses and soldiers. She can stay on as housekeeper/nurse-in-training. Oh. And she meets a Canadian soldier, Harry Cameron (aka Cam). Plenty is packed in the first handful of chapters.
The rest of the book--which is probably like seventy to eighty percent--is Maisie WAITING, WAITING, WAITING, WAITING, STILL WAITING for the war to be over.
My thoughts: I found The Forgotten Orphan to be a tedious read. Its 400 pages felt like 1000. I felt that having the book start in 1940 and having it drag out through the duration of the entire war might not have been the best choice. For covering so much time, so very little happens.
The book is neither plot driven, premise driven....or character driven. I think for me where it fell flat was in the characterization department. Maisie herself stars front and center. And perhaps if a reader makes a connection 100% with her, then the book might be worth the journey. But if you don't happen to make a full connection and care deeply about Maisie, there's little for you here.
I was disappointed with Maisie's relationships with other characters. I don't think the other characters were developed enough. Cam, her love interest, is the one we get the most scenes with. And I felt it was definitely a case of insta love. Which could legitimately happen--especially in war time. They met two or three times, agree to write letters, and then are in a committed, steady relationship long distance of course. We do get their correspondence. Perhaps for those that do see Cam and Maisie as this super couple may find these letters wonderful and romantic and swoon-worthy.
Maisie's relationships with others remained superficial in my opinion. Perhaps due to lack of scenes where stuff happens or deep, meaningful conversations happen?
Simon. I am confused why Simon is even in this story???? Why introduce him in the first place??? What does he add to the story??? I mean technically he is someone who provides a lead about her twin brother. But if that was all he was going to add to the story, why turn him into a #1 a**. I mean seriously this guy is MESSED UP. Multiple times he tries to sexually assault her. He beats up Cam. Does prison time--on unrelated charges. Just a complete wreck. And Maisie is torn up about whether or not to cut him out of her life because he was at Holly Bush with her at one point??? Like the guy just tried to assault you, why is it a question on IF you cut ties with him????
Jack. I felt this was manipulation. Her brother reappears (with super incredible cheesy dialogue) only to be KILLED in the war with a melodramatic death scene where she READS HER newest POEM to him as he's breathing out his last moments. POOR THING. YOUR POETRY IS NOT WHAT HE NEEDED TO HEAR.
The dialogue in places was just painful. Not all the time. Not always. There were a few times it just felt very scripted, very amateurish, very expected, uninspiring.
But by far the most painful aspect of this one was Maisie thinking she was a poet. She writes poetry throughout these years that readers have to sludge through.
The World War II setting could not save this one--in my opinion. I wanted ALL of my time back.
December 10, 2020
Maisie Reynolds has been at the Holly Bush Orphanage since she was 4 years old. She is now 19 and is still there. Her bushy red hair and reticent personality has kept her from getting adopted and has caused her to be teased by the other orphans. Her twin, Jack, was adopted early and she has never heard from him. The Matron of the orphanage seems to hate Maisie, and always tells potential adoptive parents that Maisie is no good and lazy which, in reality, Maisie is just the opposite. World War 2 is now blasting its way around the English countryside; and when Matron is killed during a bombing attacking and the temporary Matron is killed as well, Maisie finds herself in charge of the orphanage as the military takes it over for a hospital for military personnel suffering from what is now known as PTSD. Will Maisie be up to the tasks she takes on and will it change her life forever in many different ways?
I absolutely loved Maisie and how she faced and overcame each challenge presented to her. She learned she had capabilities beyond what she thought and found that she did have an inner beauty as well as outer beauty that others appreciated. This is my first novel from Peters, and I loved her historical knowledge of the orphanages that sprang up during WW2 as children were left without parents due to bombing. Her character development was also spot on with both the major and minor characters. The letters and poetry that she included between Maisie and Cam was so heartwarming, and I looked forward to reading each of their letters especially Maisie's beautiful poetry.
I will certainly be looking for Peters' previous books as this one was so enjoyable.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
I absolutely loved Maisie and how she faced and overcame each challenge presented to her. She learned she had capabilities beyond what she thought and found that she did have an inner beauty as well as outer beauty that others appreciated. This is my first novel from Peters, and I loved her historical knowledge of the orphanages that sprang up during WW2 as children were left without parents due to bombing. Her character development was also spot on with both the major and minor characters. The letters and poetry that she included between Maisie and Cam was so heartwarming, and I looked forward to reading each of their letters especially Maisie's beautiful poetry.
I will certainly be looking for Peters' previous books as this one was so enjoyable.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
November 2, 2022
Another book that I loved and another author I will
Adopt ! Maisie Reynolds is the main character and I loved her ! It starts off in an orphanage during the Second World War in Southampton in the U.K . She is mistreated in the orphanage and has a twin brother but he is adopted but not her . So they are separated and has no idea where he is and who adopted him . When the orphanage is closed because it’s too unsafe because of the war , Maisie stays behind , she is 18 . The orphanage becomes a hospital for the injured soldiers . She becomes the housekeeper for the doctors and nurses but soon becomes the nurses aid . Helping them to tend to the injured and traumatized soldiers. She also wants to find her mom and wants to know why she was given up but along the way she meets Cam ! A handsome Canadian Paratrooper who teaches her that love and to be loved still exists ! She is also looking for a twin Jack who was adopted! Maisie gets by the war by writing love letters and poetry to Cam and he writes her back when he can . Then D-Day comes and along with it tragedy! I love the description in the last two chapters I feel like I went to a little trip
To Nova Scotia while I was in my living room . Another book that brought me to tears ! I will definitely read another book by Glynis Peters!
Adopt ! Maisie Reynolds is the main character and I loved her ! It starts off in an orphanage during the Second World War in Southampton in the U.K . She is mistreated in the orphanage and has a twin brother but he is adopted but not her . So they are separated and has no idea where he is and who adopted him . When the orphanage is closed because it’s too unsafe because of the war , Maisie stays behind , she is 18 . The orphanage becomes a hospital for the injured soldiers . She becomes the housekeeper for the doctors and nurses but soon becomes the nurses aid . Helping them to tend to the injured and traumatized soldiers. She also wants to find her mom and wants to know why she was given up but along the way she meets Cam ! A handsome Canadian Paratrooper who teaches her that love and to be loved still exists ! She is also looking for a twin Jack who was adopted! Maisie gets by the war by writing love letters and poetry to Cam and he writes her back when he can . Then D-Day comes and along with it tragedy! I love the description in the last two chapters I feel like I went to a little trip
To Nova Scotia while I was in my living room . Another book that brought me to tears ! I will definitely read another book by Glynis Peters!
November 30, 2020
Thank you to Net Galley, One More Chapter and Harper Collins UK for a copy of the Forgotten Orphan in exchange for an honest review.
The Forgotten Oprhan follows Masie Reynolds, who was abandoned at Holly Bush orphanage when she was a young child along with her twin brother, who was later adopted.
Throughout her childhood, Masie was not treated very well at the orphanage, and longed for a life outside of it,
To be honest, I didn't get very far into this before calling it quits. I love historical fiction and stories about coming of age, but this read like it was written for young adults or those in grade school — which is totally fine — but the way it was done just didn't do it for me.
I enjoyed the premises, but I wanted more out of it, especially with a subject matter like this and set during WW2.
The Forgotten Oprhan follows Masie Reynolds, who was abandoned at Holly Bush orphanage when she was a young child along with her twin brother, who was later adopted.
Throughout her childhood, Masie was not treated very well at the orphanage, and longed for a life outside of it,
To be honest, I didn't get very far into this before calling it quits. I love historical fiction and stories about coming of age, but this read like it was written for young adults or those in grade school — which is totally fine — but the way it was done just didn't do it for me.
I enjoyed the premises, but I wanted more out of it, especially with a subject matter like this and set during WW2.
January 26, 2021
I usually devour books in this genre. Strong female characters, WWII history, and a little romance for good measure. This one did not satisfy for me. The biggest struggles I had were the weak writing and the number of glaring editing errors. The author would set up a suggestion of time passing and then reveal it was the next day. The character would appear to be in some peril, but then it would go nowhere. And there were at least 4 glaring word/structure errors that were inexcusable. I actually double checked to see if it was a self published book.
It’s too bad, because the main character, Maisie, while understandably naive, could have been a powerful female force.
The book was compared to Orphan Train and Home for Unwanted Girls... not in the same caliber at all.
It’s too bad, because the main character, Maisie, while understandably naive, could have been a powerful female force.
The book was compared to Orphan Train and Home for Unwanted Girls... not in the same caliber at all.
February 13, 2021
This might be a favorite read of 2021 for me! Even though it's only Febuary, this book will be a fav forever. This follows the sad story of Maisie and her brother, who are orphans. They are separated for many years.
Matron was such a horrible character. I'm glad she was killed off so early in the story.
I love Cam and Maisie's relationship. I feel that they have such a beautiful love story.
If you like historical fiction, read this book!
Matron was such a horrible character. I'm glad she was killed off so early in the story.
I love Cam and Maisie's relationship. I feel that they have such a beautiful love story.
If you like historical fiction, read this book!
March 18, 2021
A fascinating book. This story happens during the Second World War. Maisie Reynolds was abandoned at a very young age and had to spend her childhood at the Holly Bush Orphanage. Her country is no longer a safe place, and everything changes for Maisie the day she meets a Canadian paratrooper. Maybe this relationship can become something more. I liked this book mainly because of the description of Maisie's situation. In addition to a difficult childhood, Maisie lived through the ravages of World War II. What struck me the most is that Maisie always maintained a positive attitude. It is a book that I read in one sitting and that I thoroughly enjoyed. I thank NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
September 25, 2020
3.5 stars. This was a heartwarming novel of WW2. I love the character of Maisie and her experiences. Would love to see her character in another novel continuing her story. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2022
This was a great read. Engrossing and quick to read. The character of Masie, an orphan who never left her orphanage and ended up staying as it is turned into a rehabilitation center and then hospital during the war, is the definition of indomitable. You can’t help but root for her. I want to call it a light read but the WWII subject matter makes that seem a bit callous. The book lacks any real depth but it is still a good read.
February 14, 2022
Wow, an amazing story about determination and courage.
If you love historical fiction this is a "must read"
If you love historical fiction this is a "must read"
May 13, 2022
I quite enjoyed this book, the setting of it during the war made it such a heartfelt story.
The fact that it had a happy ending made it all the better.
A easy read, I think that I would recommend this, having only bought it as a cheapy from a book shop. Just shows, you never know what you can find x
The fact that it had a happy ending made it all the better.
A easy read, I think that I would recommend this, having only bought it as a cheapy from a book shop. Just shows, you never know what you can find x
March 17, 2025
Finally a war book that has a good ending
December 18, 2020
Such a moving and compelling read.
Masie and her twin brother Jack are abandoned and left in an orphanage at a very young age. Jack is adopted early on, but Maisie is left at the orphanage where she is treated abominably by the matron and staff.
This is such an emotional story which takes the reader up to the end of WW2, and beyond.
Although very sad in parts, I thoroughly enjoyed this well written story, and can't recommend it highly enough.
Masie and her twin brother Jack are abandoned and left in an orphanage at a very young age. Jack is adopted early on, but Maisie is left at the orphanage where she is treated abominably by the matron and staff.
This is such an emotional story which takes the reader up to the end of WW2, and beyond.
Although very sad in parts, I thoroughly enjoyed this well written story, and can't recommend it highly enough.
October 19, 2022
Maisie had such a rough start in life. First, being born into an abusive household. Then, not only was she forced to watch her own twin brother be adopted into a new family, but every child that she becomes friends with at the orphanage eventually leaves for new lives with their new families while she was always left behind. Maisie was very responsible for her age, had a good head on her shoulders, and desperately wanted to help out anywhere she could.
Maisie was a very kind character despite her unhappy upbringing. She truly cared about the people around her and generally wanted to give back to people in any way she could. Becoming a nurse was perfect for her. It was nice seeing how well she was able to help the soldiers with their PTSD and with getting them some form of their life back.
Simon was a drunk idiot. The way he kept trying to force himself on Maisie was truly messed up. She really should have just caught him out of her life a long time ago. Cam was great. I loved the letters and poems they were always writing to each other. They were so cute and I’m glad things worked out for them in the end.
Maisie was a very kind character despite her unhappy upbringing. She truly cared about the people around her and generally wanted to give back to people in any way she could. Becoming a nurse was perfect for her. It was nice seeing how well she was able to help the soldiers with their PTSD and with getting them some form of their life back.
Simon was a drunk idiot. The way he kept trying to force himself on Maisie was truly messed up. She really should have just caught him out of her life a long time ago. Cam was great. I loved the letters and poems they were always writing to each other. They were so cute and I’m glad things worked out for them in the end.
October 17, 2020
Maisie Reynolds abandoned and separated from her twin, Jack as a child at the orphanage always felt unloved and not wanted. Her bright red unruly red hair made her feel as if no one would ever want her. She was treated so bad by the leaders of the Holly Bush Orphanage.
Taking place during World War 2. She grew to be a very strong woman, but always wondered about her past and who her parents were. She loved the children of the orphanage and finally became their leader. She meets a Canadian Paratrooper, Cam, and falls in love with him. So emotional and full of surprises that will keep you reading and wanting Maisie to find happiness.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for the ARC and I am submitting my voluntary and honest review.
Taking place during World War 2. She grew to be a very strong woman, but always wondered about her past and who her parents were. She loved the children of the orphanage and finally became their leader. She meets a Canadian Paratrooper, Cam, and falls in love with him. So emotional and full of surprises that will keep you reading and wanting Maisie to find happiness.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins for the ARC and I am submitting my voluntary and honest review.
March 11, 2021
My Rating: 1.5/5
This didn't have enough going for me to rate it highly. I didn't enjoy the writing, I found that it was basic, and seemed to have no natural flow to it. The only exception to that was the poetry but there wasn't enough of it to make up for the lack of plot. The characters were not relatable or interesting enough to hold my focus. They were very two-dimensional and didn't have the factor that brought me to the next level. I did enjoy moments with Cam, but they were also stagnant. I don't plan to read more by the author.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
This didn't have enough going for me to rate it highly. I didn't enjoy the writing, I found that it was basic, and seemed to have no natural flow to it. The only exception to that was the poetry but there wasn't enough of it to make up for the lack of plot. The characters were not relatable or interesting enough to hold my focus. They were very two-dimensional and didn't have the factor that brought me to the next level. I did enjoy moments with Cam, but they were also stagnant. I don't plan to read more by the author.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
May 3, 2021
" It's tough being an orphan during wartime... Nobody seems to want me" (ok but they are probably not in a great position to add another person to their family right now, ya know with a World War going on and stuff..)
- The End
There. That's the book. Biggest waste of time.
Thanks, though, netgalley for giving me the pdf so that I can share my thoughts and opinions with y'all 🧡
- The End
There. That's the book. Biggest waste of time.
Thanks, though, netgalley for giving me the pdf so that I can share my thoughts and opinions with y'all 🧡
March 31, 2021
Too sentimental for me. I bet the author used to write for Harlequin Romance.
December 22, 2020
Maisie Reynolds has grown up at the Holly Bush orphanage in Southampton. At the age of 17, she realizes she’ll never be adopted. Separated from her twin brother Jack at the age of five and with no memories from her parents, Maisie is looking for answers about her past. When WOII arrives in Engeland, all the orphans except Maisie are moved from the city. The building will be turned into a care home for wounded soldiers. Maisie’s future is unsure. Will she be able to set up a life on her own? Can she find her brother?
I must start with the fact that this wasn’t a book for me. It is a standard WOII fiction, a genre that dominates the book store shelves. These kind of books tend to feel like they are all the same.
This is a coming of age story with good character building. Maisie is a young naive girl trying to make the best of the situation. She has some lovely friends in Charlie and Joyce. I enjoyed to read about all the secondary characters and their lives during the war. But the plot is just too thin for my liking. Especially the mystery around Maisie’s family is too far fetched and there are too much coincidences in how the revelations slowly unfold. There is also a heavy romance plot line in the form “boy meets girl and they are instantly in love”.
Britain in times of war made for a fine scenery. In times when the world outside comes to a halt due to a global pandemic, it’s strange to read about normal life going on through the bomb attacks of the Germans.
If you love WOII fiction with some drama and romance, this might be the perfect holiday read for you.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy in return for my honest opinion.
https://inanotherera.wordpress.com/20...
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De 18-jarige Maisie Reynolds is een wees in het Holly Bush weeshuis in Southampton. Ze weet niets over haar ouders en haar tweelingbroer is op jonge leeftijd van haar gescheiden. Zij werd echter nooit geadopteerd en wanneer het weeshuis wordt omgebouwd tot een verzorgingstehuis voor oorlogsslachtoffers wordt haar toekomst heel onzeker.
Peters is een vlotte vertelster, maar dit boek mist originaliteit. Dit is een standaard WOII coming of age verhaal waarmee de boekenwinkels vol liggen.
Maisie is zeker een fijn hoofdpersonage en ook de andere karakters zijn mooi uitgewerkt. Alleen waren de verhaallijnen veel te dun en kon je bepaalde zaken wel voorspellen. Vooral de zoektocht naar haar familie vond ik wat aan elkaar hangen van te veel toevalligheden. Er is ook een zware romance verhaallijn die me warm noch koud liet.
Dus echt een tussendoortje dat me waarschijnlijk niet lang gaat bijblijven.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
I must start with the fact that this wasn’t a book for me. It is a standard WOII fiction, a genre that dominates the book store shelves. These kind of books tend to feel like they are all the same.
This is a coming of age story with good character building. Maisie is a young naive girl trying to make the best of the situation. She has some lovely friends in Charlie and Joyce. I enjoyed to read about all the secondary characters and their lives during the war. But the plot is just too thin for my liking. Especially the mystery around Maisie’s family is too far fetched and there are too much coincidences in how the revelations slowly unfold. There is also a heavy romance plot line in the form “boy meets girl and they are instantly in love”.
Britain in times of war made for a fine scenery. In times when the world outside comes to a halt due to a global pandemic, it’s strange to read about normal life going on through the bomb attacks of the Germans.
If you love WOII fiction with some drama and romance, this might be the perfect holiday read for you.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy in return for my honest opinion.
https://inanotherera.wordpress.com/20...
---
De 18-jarige Maisie Reynolds is een wees in het Holly Bush weeshuis in Southampton. Ze weet niets over haar ouders en haar tweelingbroer is op jonge leeftijd van haar gescheiden. Zij werd echter nooit geadopteerd en wanneer het weeshuis wordt omgebouwd tot een verzorgingstehuis voor oorlogsslachtoffers wordt haar toekomst heel onzeker.
Peters is een vlotte vertelster, maar dit boek mist originaliteit. Dit is een standaard WOII coming of age verhaal waarmee de boekenwinkels vol liggen.
Maisie is zeker een fijn hoofdpersonage en ook de andere karakters zijn mooi uitgewerkt. Alleen waren de verhaallijnen veel te dun en kon je bepaalde zaken wel voorspellen. Vooral de zoektocht naar haar familie vond ik wat aan elkaar hangen van te veel toevalligheden. Er is ook een zware romance verhaallijn die me warm noch koud liet.
Dus echt een tussendoortje dat me waarschijnlijk niet lang gaat bijblijven.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
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