The Light over London

By: Julia Kelly

Narrated by: Lucy Brownhill

Length: 9 hrs and 51 mins

Publisher's summary

Reminiscent of Martha Hall Kelly's Lilac Girls and Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale, this sweeping, entrancing story is a must-listen for fans of remarkable women rising to challenges they could never have predicted.

It’s always been easier for Cara Hargraves to bury herself in the past than confront the present, which is why working with a gruff but brilliant antiques dealer is perfect. While clearing out an estate, she pries open an old tin that holds the relics of a lost relationship: among the treasures, a World War II-era diary and a photograph of a young woman in uniform. Eager to find the author of the hauntingly beautiful, unfinished diary, Cara digs into this soldier’s life, but soon realizes she may not have been ready for the stark reality of wartime London she finds within the pages.

In 1941, 19-year-old Louise Keene’s life had been decided for her - she’ll wait at home in her Cornish village until her wealthy suitor returns from war to ask for her hand. But when Louise unexpectedly meets Flight Lieutenant Paul Bolton, a dashing RAF pilot stationed at a local base, everything changes. And changes again when Paul’s unit is deployed without warning.

Desperate for a larger life, Louise joins the women’s branch of the British Army in the anti-aircraft gun unit as a Gunner Girl. As bombs fall on London, she and the other Gunner Girls relish in their duties to be exact in their calculations, and quick in their identification of enemy planes during air raids. The only thing that gets Louise through those dark, bullet-filled nights is knowing she and Paul will be together when the war is over. But when a bundle of her letters to him are returned unanswered, she learns that wartime romance can have a much darker side.

Illuminating the story of these two women separated by generations and experience, Julia Kelly transports us to World War II London in this heartbreakingly beautiful novel through forgotten antique treasures, remembered triumphs, and fierce family ties.

©2019 Julia Kelly (P)2019 Simon & Schuster

Looking for a Happy Ending?

It was an interesting turn about from modern day to a period of history. Enjoyed story line; although, you knew what was coming, it has a sweet sentiment. Enjoyed overall.

love!!!

loved this book couldn't put it down thank you, great powerfully story, and the narrator was also great

History, Mystery, and Romance weaved into a great story!

This book brought to life WWII in England. Well done. This is performed with skill that made the Audio version a delight to hear.

A good Listen

This story embraces the love stories of two different eras, one-story during WWII and the other in the current day, The characters displayed strength and perseverance during difficult times. The narration was very well done and easy to listen to.

wonderful book for fans of historical fiction

I loved this book! The parallel timelines were interesting and the parallels were thought provoking. Nothing too deep here, but a fun little listen.

Don’t wake the baby.

The story was pleasant, perhaps a bit predictable. Intrigued to learn more about women in war service. The reader’s accents were varied and well done but I found her whispering voice distracting. It was as though she didn’t want to wake a baby sleeping next door from where she was making the recording.

The character development and storyline was very good.

Lucy Brown Hill did an excellent job narrating this book. Truly one of the best audibles I’ve had to date.

Little known WW2 Heroism

A heartfelt story of deception, defiance and dishonor. Predictable outcome, well written and good narrator!

Sweet story

It starts off with conflict. I almost gave up! I'm glad I didn't. Good story, well told.

Good story whispered

I liked the story as it had some surprises. I almost didn't finish it because of the whispered narration.