The Lost Orphans

Gripping, moving, heartbreaking, uplifting and hard to put down! The Lost Orphans is historical fiction based on the true story of runaway child evacuees, called the Blitz kids, during the second world war. This book takes place in London during the Blitz when bombs were dropping, and lives were being lost or irrevocably changed forever! It was a time of fear, survival, tears, loss, horror but also a time of courage, kindness, bravery, and strength.

Eight years old Elsie and her older brother Jack become are evacuated during the bombings and land in the care of a barbaric family. After their escape Elsie and Jack find themselves alone until they met up with other orphans and runaways. The children band together to not only survive but to help others. But who will help them?????

I marveled at the resilience and bravery of the children who are put through so much. My heart ached for them while simultaneously cheering for them. I admired their bravery and ability to survive in an such a brutal and cruel world. They have suffered and lost so much but still had room in their little hearts to love, form friendships, to help others and survive a war. There is a saying/sentiment that reminded me of the children and some of the adults in this book: It is always those who have nothing or little to give who give the most. Kindness is such a beautiful thing and can change lives.

I was instantly drawn into this book through the wonderful writing and vivid descriptions of the writing duo of Catherine Curzon and Helen Barrell who write as Ellie Curzon. It is obvious they did their research and poured it into the writing of this wonderful first book in The Runaway Evacuees, their new series. I love books that causse me to think and feel and The Lost Orphans did both.

Wonderfully written, well thought out, moving, and hard to put down!

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.