The Wartime Nursery

Norfolk, 1940. In the dark days of the war, Emmeline’s nursery is the only thing giving mothers hope. But how long can she keep that hope alive? An inspiring and emotional story of love and strength in the darkest of times.

Emmeline’s daughter, Lydia, has already been evacuated and now, as Emmeline loses neighbours and friends to the bombs raining down around her, she must leave London too – for safety and a fresh start.

Evacuated to Norfolk and lodging with local politician, Lawrence, and his unwelcoming wife, Emmeline’s loneliness drives her into the arms of other struggling single mothers. The women are desperate to aid the war effort, but they need someone to care for their children. Longing to help, Emmeline pleads with Lawrence to let her open a wartime nursery – the first of its kind.

Getting support for the nursery isn’t easy, as many believe mothers should stay home. But after rolling up her sleeves, Emmeline finally opens the doors to the old community hall she’s worked so hard to spruce up, and the children flood in. The toddlers are hungry for attention and Emmeline loves their sweet little faces – even poor, fatherless Billy who always throws porridge at her, tiny Alice who needs to be held constantly, and Freddy, with his cherub curls and wide eyes.

But Lawrence’s political rival is determined to close down the nursery – just as Emmeline’s put down roots in the village and finally found the purpose she’s always dreamed of.

Will Emmeline be able to save her nursery and stay in Norfolk with the friends and the children she loves so dearly? Or will she be forced to return to London and leave her new life – and true calling – behind…?

An inspiring, uplifting and emotional historical novel set in World War Two that will keep you reading and reaching for the tissues all through the night. Perfect for fans of Diney Costeloe, Shirley Dickson and Sandy Taylor.

What readers are saying about Lizzie Page:

‘Wow!!! Absolutely captivating, heart-warming and tear-jerking… My mind and heart was completely captivated throughout… I couldn’t stop turning the pages from start to end… I found tears running down my face… Unputdownable… I absolutely loved.’ @bookworm86, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Absolutely loved this book! One of the best books I’ve read in ages… Brilliant… a gripping read that I both couldn’t wait to finish but also didn’t want to end.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘What an emotional read!… At parts I found myself shouting “no”. At others I just cried… Absolutely loved it.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Exceptional… Hits you for six… I am over the moon… Brilliantly written and you fall in love… A feel-good book that will make you cry… Oh my word I loved this.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Oh wow! I haven’t stopped thinking about this one since I finished it… This book is completely addictive… It has brought tears to my eyes and given me goosebumps.’ Little Miss Book Lover, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I was hooked from the very first few pages and just wanted to read more… I didn’t want it to end… Beautiful.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘So moving… just melted my heart… Heartbreaking, funny and so enjoyable from start to finish… took my breath away wholeheartedly.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I have been swept away by this… pure delight… the conclusion is the best ever.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Heartbreaking… This is an all-round excellent read, without a doubt 5 stars from me.’ Booking Good Read, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘One of the best historical fiction books I’ve read in a very long time.’ Shelly’s Book Nook, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐