What a wonderful story, once I started I couldn’t put the book down. It is a tale of two lives coming together, through an old violin. It is a story of bravery and courage and resilience. The characters are amazing and real. Jenny brings the characters alive, to the point where you actually feel like you know them. As this WW2 story develops our emotions certainly travel (remember to have a hanky on hand). My favourite bit was the account of Christmas Day and the photos.
Thanks to Jenny O’Brien, Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.

Kitty works in the family's antique shop. A woman comes in wanting to sell a violin but it's in bad shape. Kitty buys it but her father doesn't want anything to do with the violin. What's the secret?
We then jump to 1940. Evelyn decides to help the war effort by becoming an aid in the local hospital. She sees countless men injured in the war.
A very interesting book especially if you like reading about the 1940's time period.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC and to the publisher Storm Publishing.

<i>The Book of Lost Children</i> is a departure from Ms O'Brien's psychological thrillers which have been enthralling me for some time. The dual timeline and WWII setting was indeed the initial lure for me to read this book, but it was topped off by being written by one of my favourite authors.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this engrossing and emotional novel which is set in occupied Guernsey during WWII and Dublin in 2018. I particularly enjoyed reading Evelyn's timeline and have learned a little more about the circumstances of the occupation; an added bonus for me when reading a piece of fiction. In common with Ms O'Brien's thrillers, I did not predict the ending because I'd been wrong-footed into drawing the wrong conclusions.

<i>The Book of Lost Children</i> tells the story, beginning in 1943, of school-teacher-turned-nursing-auxilliary Evelyn Nightingale's resolve to hide three babies from the occupying forces, to prevent the babies being sent to Germany. The children's story is revealed in 2018 when Kitty White, who works in her father's antique shop, finds Evelyn's list of names and sets out to discover the truth.

Ms O'Brien's well-researched story outlines some of the hardships suffered by the islanders and the determination of some amongst them to defy their captors with small acts of sabotage and defiance known as <i>Petite Resistance</i>. It is delivered at a gentle pace with the greater part of the story centred on the war years, which I found particularly appealing.

I look forward to reading more dual timeline stories from this author, especially where they have a WWII setting, and would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction.

This novel is based off a true story; however, it is fictionalized, this genre and time period is one of my favorites to read about. The Book of Love children is an atmospheric, gut-wrenching story that is intricately woven between two storyline POVs in two different time periods. Our storyline alternates between Evelyn Nightingale (how cool is her name), whom is a nurse in Guernsey in 1943 in the midst of the German occupation. The alternate POV is told by Kitty White who is trying to grasp and understand her family's past during their time in Dublin in 2018.

Evelyn was a very refreshing and enjoyable storyline; her storyline is very heartfelt and enduring. It goes to show the emotional turmoil and bravery a nurse of her time and location would go through to help protect innocent lives. The intense war atmosphere is vividly portrayed, and the characters trials and tribulations come to live on the pages and resonate so deeply with the reader. As someone who took an oath to do no harm and protect those in harm's way Evelyn goes to great lengths to keep her oath.

In 2018 Kitty's timeline can come off as daunting and slow at times, but as Kitty partakes on her journey to unveil her familial history the reader, can't help but want to know more and go along for the ride. The ending is heartwarming and a beautiful way to finish the story. I've read many historical fiction books around WW2, but this is the first I've read based on Guernsey and the surrounding islands. I've really enjoyed reading this, and rate it highly amongst others of a similar theme.

This novel is based off a true story; however, it is fictionalized, this genre and time period is one of my favorites to read about. The Book of Love children is an atmospheric, gut-wrenching story that is intricately woven between two storyline POVs in two different time periods. Our storyline alternates between Evelyn Nightingale (how cool is her name), whom is a nurse in Guernsey in 1943 in the midst of the German occupation. The alternate POV is told by Kitty White who is trying to grasp and understand her family's past during their time in Dublin in 2018.

Evelyn was a very refreshing and enjoyable storyline; her storyline is very heartfelt and enduring. It goes to show the emotional turmoil and bravery a nurse of her time and location would go through to help protect innocent lives. The intense war atmosphere is vividly portrayed, and the characters trials and tribulations come to live on the pages and resonate so deeply with the reader. As someone who took an oath to do no harm and protect those in harm's way Evelyn goes to great lengths to keep her oath.

In 2018 Kitty's timeline can come off as daunting and slow at times, but as Kitty partakes on her journey to unveil her familial history the reader, can't help but want to know more and go along for the ride. The ending is heartwarming and a beautiful way to finish the story. I've read many historical fiction books around WW2, but this is the first I've read based on Guernsey and the surrounding islands. I've really enjoyed reading this, and rate it highly amongst others of a similar theme.

This novel offers a compelling blend of historical fiction and mystery, set against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows the journey of a young woman who uncovers long-buried secrets while navigating the challenges of wartime.

The narrative is rich with emotional depth, exploring themes of loss, resilience, and the enduring impact of the past on the present. The characters are well-developed, and their experiences are portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity.

Jenny O’Brien’s writing is evocative, capturing the essence of the era and the complexities of human relationships during tumultuous times. The pacing keeps the reader engaged, with twists and revelations that add to the intrigue. 

For readers who appreciate historical fiction that delves into personal stories amidst larger historical events, The Book of Lost Children is a poignant and satisfying read.

Thank you for letting me review this new book from Jenny O'Brien. The book is written in 2 timelines, which have links that come to light as the story progresses. The story set on Guernsey in 1943, with Evelyn Nightingale going to work at the local hospital. The island has been under German control and life is much changed for the islanders left behind after the invasion. The story, set in Dublin in 2018 revolves around Kitty. She is alone in the family antiques shop, when a young lady brings in a violin to sell. This is where the story unfolds as her interest is ignited by the items found within the violin case. All the characters are well written. I was fully engaged in their lives, their feelings both happy and sad. How brave was Evelyn. I believe this book is based on a true story. It was an enjoyable read and I learnt more about the hardships of the Channel Islanders during the 2nd World War.

'The Book of Lost Children' invites us to step into life on the small island of Guernsey in 1943, right in the midst of the Nazi occupation. Evelyn Nightingale, a former schoolteacher whose pupils have been evacuated, takes up work as a nurse at the island’s hospital. After spending several months caring for wounded men, she is transferred to the maternity ward, where she supports young mothers during the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

Life on the island is harsh: food is scarce, and the German presence is oppressive. And yet, almost instinctively, Evelyn rescues a newborn from falling into Nazi hands. Despite the immense risks, she goes on to save three more babies, recording their details in the eponymous 'Book of Lost Children' to one day help them find their roots.

Fast forward to the present day: Kitty White purchases an old German violin with a hidden compartment. Inside? A book of names.

I particularly appreciated how the two timelines eventually intertwine, allowing us to find a sense of closure to Evelyn’s story.

Evelyn is a true heroine—her courage matched only by her compassion and love. Right until the end, I hoped she might be granted a happier ending. Sadly, that was not to be.

The novel is based on a true story, which made it all the more compelling for me. The author’s writing truly does it justice, capturing both the heartbreak and the quiet acts of bravery with grace and sensitivity.

It was a deeply engaging and thoroughly enjoyable read.

This book is so well written and the story is so well researched as based on a true story, the characters are so captivating. The history and fight of the islanders of Guernsey during the war is portrayed through this book. The duel time line is easy to follow with Evelyn’s story in 1943 and Kittys story in 2018. Such an emotional and thought provoking read.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and publisher Storm Publishing for the read

This was quite a story! The things people had to endure during the war with Hitler were unimaginable. This story tells of one woman’s efforts to correct, as much as she was able, some of those wrongs. The story is well written and very descriptive. I was given a complimentary copy. The opinions expressed are my own.

Occupied Guernsey during World War II

The islands of Guernsey were occupied by the Nazis during World War II. The population suffered and were under the yoke of an unforgiving invader.
Evelyn Nightingale lost the love of her life, Joseph in the early days of the war. Through a series of happenings she’s now nursing (not registered) at the Emergency Hospital in Câtel.
It’s here she meets the pregnant collaborator Marise and her friend Camille. Marise is having a child to an SS officer. An angry man who wants his unborn child to be sent back to Germany to become a child of the Reich.
Why these things happen are never straightforward. Unerlieutenant Jannick Klein is a dreadful man. He has the habit of beating his women when they didn’t please him.
Evelyn is determined to help thwart him.
Fast forward to Dublin of 2018 and we have Kitty White, an antiques and second hand dealer, buying a violin from a woman off the streets. It helps the story come full circle. Evelyn Nightingale had been an accomplished violinist.
It’s when Kitty looks at the violin case that she discovers a history of her own that she’d known nothing about.
The execution of the plot is seamless, the tale unique. Violence against women plays its part with the particular SS Officer involved so could be a trigger.
This is a heart stopping read.

A Storm Pub. ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

What a beautiful book! One I loved immersing myself in and was sad to have reached the end. This engaging story is truly heartwarming and emotional so be prepared to shed a tear or two. Written in dual timelines, with the weightier side being that of Evelyn’s story, who worked as a nurse in Guernsey during WW2.

We trace Evelyn’s life as it’s lived and also through the eyes of Kitty, her young relative. I was fascinated by the social history from WW2 and particularly enjoyed the medical side of things as I used to be a nurse. I loved how their violin playing linked them.

What’s also inspiring is the way Evelyn’s character grows in courage and confidence, not only with her nursing experience but also with how she relates to others. Her boldness with the German occupation soldiers increases as time goes on, as does her determination to save as many lost children as possible and keep a private record of them.

“Evelyn knew she had to be careful but she also needed to make a record of events. The babies had a right to know their parents, their history; their roots. Her list of lost children.”

Kitty eventually gets to join the dots of her family’s history and succeeds in drawing together the separated relatives who are grateful for the information she has to share. A thoroughly researched and well written book that was a privilege to read and lingers long in the thoughts. Grateful thanks to the author, Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC.

✨BOOK REVIEW✨THE BOOK OF LOST CHILDREN by Jenny O’Brien

Kitty, who runs a family owned antique business, acquires a worn violin and other items. What she discovers will forever change not only her life, but the life of others she cares for so deeply.

The violin transports readers back to 1940, to the life of Evelyn. Evelyn becomes a nurse during the changing times due to WW2. She not only is a nurse, but an angel for those who need her help most during the time the German soldiers occupied parts of Guernsey. Evelyn risks her life time and again to help make a better life for others.

The Book of Lost Children by Jenny O’Brien is told in dual timelines. Kitty’s life in 2018 and Evelyn’s life in 1940. The pages of this book keep flipping as readers are immersed in the lives of these two women, until ultimately revealing their connection. This is a very different WW2 historical fiction novel unlike anything I’ve read. O’Brien paints a different sorrowful tale about the mothers who gave birth during this time. What these women went through was terrifying to say the least. The bravery of these women, their individual stories, the choices they made, the extreme risks they took, is like nothing I could imagine having to live through. What these women saw and experienced is truly unfathomable.

I am thankful for authors like Jenny O’Brien for bringing these historical fiction stories to life for us to read. These incredibly brave women, men, and families should never be forgotten for their selfless acts, their extreme kindness, and how they were there for each other, trying to make other people’s lives better, while sacrificing their own. The stories of these people are unforgettable.

Read this book. Take in its history. Let the emotions hit you wave after wave. It’s the least we can do for these selfless people who lived during this time. Hear their stories. Share their stories. Learn from their stories.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me and allowing me the honor to read an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. This book is out for publication today, April 11, 2025.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Superb!
A stunningly good read. From Nazi occupied Channel Islands to modern day Dublin I was swept away by this brilliant read. The description of living and working during the Second World War under German occupation, the hardships and the story of Evelyn and her little charges, and the family secrets finally uncovered. We can’t choose our family but we can be chosen to be a part of one.
A brilliant tale beautifully told, which is all the more poignant as it's inspired by a true story.

Guernsey, 1943. As German forces tighten their grip on the Channel Islands, nurse Evelyn Nightingale guards a dangerous secret. Within the walls of the Emergency Hospital, she's hidden three babies from the enemy – children who would otherwise face a terrible fate. When a traumatized French woman arrives to give birth, Evelyn must risk everything – with consequences that will echo through the generations.

Dublin, 2018. Still reeling from her mother's death, Kitty White is struggling to keep her family's antique shop afloat when a desperate woman arrives with an old violin to sell. Hidden in its dusty case, Kitty discovers a mysterious list of names that shatters her father's composure. Her search for answers leads her to Guernsey, where she is about to uncover a long-buried secret about her family…

Brilliantly written. Heartwarming and heart wrenching. Horrifying and uplifting. Jenny O'Brien is a master storyteller, showcasing the power of the human spirit. 5⭐

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.

Such an emotional read. A beautifully written story which had me hooked from the start. Well Done Jenny x I would highly recommend you read this book x

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book

ohhh man i cried tears over this book.... its hard hitting and based on a true story....and it packs a punch....

what an inspiration to all

As a reader, there are certain things that draw my attention when looking for a new book to read. This book has both of them. I am a fan of historical fiction, especially as it relates to WW2, and I am very interested in books that are set in the Channel Islands. This one is set in Guernsey where the author lives and works. She has had first hand contact with those who lived through these times. My husband and I had the pleasure of visiting both Guernsey and Jersey ten years ago. Every where you go on the Islands you can see signs of the German presence on the area. While we were there we had the privilege of talking to one man who lived through the war there as a teen. We also spoke to a woman who was sent to England at age 5 and ultimately came home. When the Islands were taken, Britain had already made the decision not to protect them. The German presence became heavy with almost a 1:1 ratio of Germans to Islanders. It was basically impossible to avoid coming into contact with them and those resisting could face execution. This is the background in which the historical timeline of the novel is set. While many of the characters in the novel are fictional, real stories inspired the authors writing.

The prologue begins on June 6 ,1944 as a small boat departs from Guernsey with a man, woman and some small children aboard. The story then moves to 2018 Dublin, where a young woman named Kitty is in despair over her father's depression since the death of her mother a year earlier and the fact that their small second-hand store had reached the point where it was barely sustainable. When a well dressed solicitor enters the store but fails to show the respect her knowledge should earn, she does not give in to haggling and sells him an item at a fair price but no respect. A little later, another customer enters shortly before closing and brings with her items to sell. One is an old violin that catches Kitty's eye, because her mother had been an excellent fiddle player and taught Kitty as well. There were also some old photos and a signet ring. That violin, though in need of reparation, becomes a key element of this story. Within the lining of its case, Kitty finds an old photograph and a notebook. It all appears to upset her father, so Kitty decides to try and find out what she can about it. The notebook has a name on it. Miss E. Nightingale.

On Guernsey, 21 June 1940, Evelyn Nightingale is waiting to get on a boat to leave the island before the Germans land. When her suitcase is considered too large, she makes a last minute decision to stay behind and thus becomes an integral character in the story. She and her father don't have a particularly close relationship, but she had promised her dying mother that she would look out for him. When she and a friend where returning from an outing, they had the misfortune to find themselves experiencing a German bombing raid. Evelyn stayed to help provide first aid where she could. She had been a teacher, but as most of the children had left the island, she had to look elsewhere for her employment. This experience led her to a local hospital where she offered her services as a nursing aid. Before she started, she celebrated a birthday and her father gave her a gift, an old violin in need of repairs that no one had wanted because it was German in origin.

When Evelyn was accepted to work at the hospital, her life changed. As with the author, my background is also in nursing, and the conditions under which they had to work were onerous. The hours were very long, breaks were short and days off rare. Nurses were "not allowed romantic entanglements". She would be required to "live in", but she and a co-worker ended up having to share a small house off site with a German maid that they could not trust. At work, they also came into contact with Germans who wanted to know everything that was going on. Sometimes they even brought in women who were being used as prostitutes on one of the other small islands that also had slave laborers whe were used to build German defenses around the island. It wasn't long before Evelyn had to make a moral decision , to resist in whatever small ways she could, or accede to the German will. She opted to resist.

These two stories intertwine when Kitty decides to visit Guernsey in search of answers. Their stories are spell-binding and no review can really do them justice. Both stories had me completely captivated and as with other books with wartime settings, Evelyn's actions to resist have me wondering what I would do in similar circumstances. I don't think you will be disappointed if you read this book. In fact, I would highly recommend it if you love historical fiction. By the way, Guernsey has a local connection with Canada. The name means Sarnia and their anthem is called Sarnia Cherie. Guernsey is also the birthplace of Isaac Brock, who became known in Canada as Major General Sir Isaac Brock, Commander in chief of His Majesties forces in Upper Canada. He died from wounds received in the Battle of Queenston Heights in 1812.

Many thanks to #NetGalley and #StormPublishing for allowing me to read an ARC of #TheBookOfLostChildren . All review opinions are my own.

Evelyn was a unique human being determined to do her best whilst on this earth and by that she saved the life of four children and a few other adults. She had plenty of love to give and invested that love in helping people through her work as a nurse and previously as a teacher. She learned her job while performing it under the supervision of other skilled people but she outperformed them though her determination and ingenuity. The story is told from two different angles, Evelyn's and Kitty's. The latter determined to learn about her origins and to being fully able to embrace her family once found. The Book of Lost Children although a work of fiction is based on some real facts and might be a true picture of some stories lost during WWII.
I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.

The book of Lost Children is a dual timeline historical fiction inspired by true story. I couldn't wait to read this as I LOVE historical fiction, but especially true story or inspired by true story books! I was drawn in from the beginning and I couldn't get enough of the story. Such a tough time period to write about and read about but Jenny did a fantastic job sharing the story. I must admit that I never really thought about what happened with babies born during this time. I definitely cried at different points in the story and the twist at the end was something I wasn't expecting at all. Such a beautifully written story. I will be reading it again.some day and I will have my older kids read it when we next study WW2 in history.

I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving my review