Bristol - 1945 The war has ended; the men are returning home to their loved ones, but for some things have changed. Charlotte Hennessey-White's husband, David is no longer the gentle loving man he once was and Charlotte, so independent during the war, is devastated. Edna Burbage's strong fiancée, Colin has suffered appalling physical injuries. He won't hold her to her promise of marriage, but she insists her feelings are unchanged. But is that true? Is she marrying him out of love or pity? And Polly Chandler's sweetheart, Gavin who'd she'd planned her whole future around, hasn't come home at all. War and suffering have changed their men leaving the women to cope on their own. But they too are changed. They harbour secrets best kept that could do untold damage to these already fragile lives.
Wartime Brides Series
This series delves into the lives of women during and in the aftermath of World War II, as they navigate the war's impact on their loved ones and relationships. Witness their strength, resilience, and internal struggles as they confront unexpected changes, trauma, and difficult choices. Each narrative explores love, loss, and the transformation that peace brings, highlighting the quiet heroism of ordinary women in extraordinary times.



Recommended Reading Order
- 1
- 2Jeannie Johnson's sparkling prequel, The Rest of Our Lives, introduced our three heroines. The post-war years bring these very different women just as many dreams, disappointments, and triumphs. It's Coronation Year, 1953, a new beginning. Like many cities, Bristol is patching itself up after the war, while refugees who fought for the allies are seeking sanctuary in Britain. Charlotte tries to forget her wartime love and accept the shortcomings of her marriage. Edna has three beautiful children and will do anything to protect her brood, but hasn't allowed for the effect of a deadly, 20th-century disease. Polly still hopes for an easier, more glamorous life, but with her irrepressible young daughter and her charming tricky husband, will things improve? 
- 2Polly longs for an easier, more glamorous life, but with her irrepressible young daughter and her charming - if scheming - husband, will things improve? Charlotte is trying to forget her illicit wartime romance and accept the shortcomings of her marriage. And Edna is desperate to protect her young family, even if it means keeping secrets...