While I’ve been reading and reviewing a lot of books set in WW2, I haven’t read too many from WW1 and was at once interested in reading and reviewing War In The Valleys.

War In The Valleys

WW1 marches on, but Violet faces her own battle at home

July 1916. Young mother, Violet Jones, lives a tough life in the Rhymney Valley, caring for 4-year-old Clarice and baby Benjy on her own while soldier husband Charlie fights on the Front Line. But when tragedy strikes, Violet’s life becomes even harder.

While they may be far from the battlefields, the effects of WW1 take their toll on the small mining community of Dorcalon, with food becoming scarce and more and more of their young men losing their lives.

With very little money coming in, and two babies to care for, Violet takes in a relative to help make ends meet. But far from easing her burden, it might turn out to be the worst decision she’s made.

As the Great War takes its toll on the nation, Violet faces her own battle. All alone in the world, can she protect her children, and herself? And will she ever find joy out of the depths of despair?

A captivating, emotional saga set in WW1 – will tug on your heart-strings and bring a tear to your eye. If you like Nadine Dorries, Rosie Goodwin or Sheila Newbury you will adore this beautiful Welsh saga.

My Review

I haven’t read the earlier book Heartbreak in the Valley, but War In The Valleys reads well as a stand alone book.

I really enjoyed learning about the mining community in Wales during World War 1. The book had me involved right from the start. The insights into how this community coped with the loss of life from the dangerous mines as well as the war. Hunger and hardship were part of their daily life and yet they show strength of character. How Violet manages with the loss of her husband in the war and tries to make ends meet makes a very emotional read. Her friends supporting her despite their own hardships is heartening.

The use of Welsh phrases and the whole story showed that the author had thoroughly researched mining and the First World War and its effects on people in Wales.

I liked the author’s style of characterization and creation of atmosphere and very vivid storytelling.

Buy War In The Valleys

Author bio:

Several years ago, Francesca Capaldi pursued a childhood dream and joined a creative writing class. Lots of published short stories, a serial, and four pocket novels later, she’s now explored her mother’s ancestral history for a series of novels set in a Welsh colliery village. A history graduate and former teacher, she hails from the Sussex coast but now lives in Kent with her family and a cat called Lando Calrissian. 

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I received an ARC of War In The Valleys from the publisher Hera Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.