War Brides by Helen Bryan

[ashnance]

War Brides is the story of five young women, nearly children, who are forced to grow up during the harsh conditions of World War II. Set in the small English town of Crownmarsh Priors, each woman is forced to take on extra duties to help the war effort. As Hitler and his army begin to spread into England, fear and scarcity spread with them. Through each of their plights, these young women are able to find love and happily marry.

When a Crownmarsh local, an upper class young lady from New Orleans, a scrappy girl from the slums of London, a Jewish refugee evacuated to Crownmarsh, and a stubborn daughter of an English military officer are forced to merge their completely distinct lives, they form a bond that even a World War cannot tear down. As each girl tackles her own personal issues, and takes on the issues of what can only be classified as her sisters, she is forced to open her perspective on life. What is truly important? What do I want to accomplish? What is my purpose? The way Bryan allows each character to develop, on her own time and in her own way, is a joy to witness.

Set in present(ish) times, the book is premised on gathering these ladies back up for a reunion to celebrate the fifty year anniversary of the war. Like Bryan, England wants to commemorate the efforts of these women, as well as give them the appreciation and recognition they earned. Readers are introduced to these women first as adults, and then are transported back in time to learn their full stories.

What is most interesting about this novel to me is that it gives a fresh perspective on World War II. Naturally, I am accustomed to reading the American perspective on the war, and, occasionally, a Jewish perspective. Giving the perspective of England was a wise choice by Bryan. There are so many people that play integral roles during the war, it is easy to lose track of the importance each person and each society played. England suffered terribly. The oft-ignored wives of the men who fought so hard made many sacrifices. Bryan does a brilliant job giving these women the credit they deserve.

Coming full circle, the book obviously ends with the reunion that was set up in the beginning. Without giving anything important away, the women have an ulterior motive for attending the reunion. No doubt, they are happy to catch up with one another (it’s been years!). However, their endgame was a bit strange. It sort of came out of nowhere. Albeit rather shocking, the taste of revenge is rather sweet. Don’t put a thing past these spicy ladies of World War II!

[barb429]

Sounds like an interesting books. I have seen it before, and considered picking it up, but just have never gotten around to it. After reading this, it makes me really want to check it out.

[ashnance]

Oh good - I hope you like it! I really enjoyed getting to read a new perspective on the war and becoming acquainted with such interestingly strong characters.