Clara Newton is the house mother for the children at Shilling Grange, and there never seems to be enough time in her day. Trying to keep track of the children’s needs, stretching an ever-shrinking budget are labors of love. When Clara hears rumors of the Grange being sold, will there be any way to keep the children together? Join in on this heartwarming tale, set in post-World War 2 England.

Wow what a touching, emotional and moving read! This was a magical book! I loved every minute of it and wanted to crawl inside and stay there. It was so warm and cosy like a fuzzy scarf and mittens. This was one of those books that sucked me in from the beginning and didn’t let go until I finished! I thought it was well written, with absolutely flawlessly done characters, and absolutely unputdownable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A beautiful brilliant book!

Ever since finishing the first novel in this series, I have been desperate to get my hands on this and find out what has happened to Clara and the children (and the deliciously Byronic Ivor!) Within the first chapter I was right back there in Lavenham and – despite planning to take my time – couldn’t put it down until I’d finished it.

What I love most about Lizzie Page’s books is that she writes authentically about the time period while giving us strong characters we can identify with today. I am not a historian, but there are many times in this book where I was hit with the similarities between the issues then and now. Clara is a wonderful protagonist – honest, kind and sometimes naïve – and her flaws make her both believable and relatable. I want so much for everything to work out for her!

Page cleverly weaves the threads of the individual characters into Clara’s narrative and the plot moves at a pace as we are drawn into the stories of the individual children at the home. My heart was squeezed many times by their experiences and their relationships with each other and Clara. Page doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities for orphaned children in post-war Britain, but her light touch means that this is not harsh or uncomfortable to read.

Another beautiful book which warmed my heart. Now I’m desperate for Book Three!

In August, I read The Orphanage ( book 1) and was impressed with how Lizzie Page spins a tale. I appreciate how her books occur during noted historical periods and how she develops her female characters. I enjoy seeing them grow and gain newfound confidence in their abilities to tackle the various challenges they are up against. Her latest book is the sequel to The Orphanage, and it is a very engaging, warm and satisfying read. I was honestly so excited to find out what happened to all those characters that I had come to know and love. We continue to follow the ups and downs of the lives of the children living in the Orphanage and their house mother, Clara. This book will have you crying, laughing and cheering for these characters who will tug at your heartstrings.
I have discovered lately ( Covid related) that I am struggling with reading and finding books that hold my attention, but I have not found this with Lizzie Pages books. These books are well written, well priced and worthy of your time. If you haven't read any of her books yet, I highly recommend you do. Thank you Netgalley, Bookouture and Lizzie Page for this ARC.

What a touching story that took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions. Each child has their own story which endears you to them. Very heartwarming and written exceptionally well. The author was new to me and I highly recommend this book. It will pull at your heartstrings.

I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest opinion and review.