Whilst We That Are Left by Lisa Bigelow is a debut fictional story about the effects of war. I was interested to discover that the story is inspired by real-life events involving Lisa's grandfather, who was one of the 645 crew members lost on the ship, HMAS Sydney, in 1941.
The story begins in Melbourne in 1941, and spans across the years to 1947.
There are two main female characters - Mae Parker and Grace Fowler.
Mae has been happily married to Harry, a naval engineer, for 6 years. They are about to bring their first child into the world when Harry gets posted to the HMAS Sydney, a dream that he has been waiting for.
Shortly after the birth of their daughter Katie, Mae discovers that Harry's ship has gone missing. The news leaves her distraught and she struggles to believe that Harry may never return.
Grace is a feisty and determined young woman who works at a daily newspaper office and is keen on making her childhood dream of becoming a reporter a reality.
It is there that she meets fellow journalist Phil Taylor, and they begin dating. But when Phil is sent to work in Singapore to report on the Allied troops, he is captured, and Grace does not know if or when he will ever return.
Both of these women are very brave, and have to endure the effect that the war has on their lives.
Mae remains hopeful that she will be reunited with Harry. Her loving family of aunt and uncles offer their love and support and help her get back on her feet as she faces challenges with raising Katie whilst clinging to the hope that she will see Harry again.
This is a book that drew me in and I really enjoyed it.
Having the focus on the two women gave the reader a very good insight into how war effects not only the servicemen and women, but their loved ones, for generations to come.
For further information on this title, head here
To see my original review on Beauty & Lace, head here
With thanks to Beauty & Lace and Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read and review We That Are Lost.
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