The Only Light in London: A totally unputdownable WW2 story about love and sacrifice Paperback – 15 Feb. 2024

Love the characters, it’s easy to read.

I have already read a few of Lily Graham s books including The Nightingale (5*arae) and The Last Restaurant in Paris which I also rated a five star, read. Both are wonderful books.I did not rate this one quite as highly, but in saying that it is still a very good readThe story is set in London just before the 2nd World War begins. A young couple meet and fall in love, and the advent of war will bring new trials and challenges to the relationship. This story blends well with goods historical facts and captures the mood of the ordinary people affected by the war.I rate this book a four star read, and if you like the novels of @FuobaValpy then I think you will enjoy this book.

couldn't put it down i really thought it was sad in places but over all it's a great book to get into had me hooked from the first page

I received an early advance copy for review."The Only Light in London" offers a poignant perspective on WWII for Sebastian, a German refugee in England. The narrative provides a fresh and insightful exploration of the challenges and triumphs faced by those seeking refuge during the tumultuous era. While the ending delivers a satisfying resolution, some may find it slightly rushed. However, the epilogue effectively ties up loose ends, enhancing the overall reading experience. Overall, "The Only Light in London" is a compelling read that I would recommend to anyone interested in historical fiction, romance and tales of resilience.

You just have to keep reading! Such a lovely mix of characters too. For those of us who are post war babies, it brings those realities to the fore and how much people suffered.

I've read most books by this author and I think this is one of her best.It's full of emotions I cried, laughed felt annoyed, but most of I totally loved it.A wonderful storyteller at her best.Can highly recommend.

The Only Light In London by Lily Graham is a powerful historical novel that consumed me.The action begins in 1939 in both London, and eight months earlier in Berlin. It was a terrifying time to be Jewish and living in Nazi Germany. We drop in on a family and see the difficulties they face as they try to flee the country. They become a family divided.We see the bravery of a twelve year old girl. “They don’t have the right to make me feel I’m worth less than them just because I’m a Jew.” She shows incredible courage. Though her body is limited as to where she can go, her mind is free because she refuses to let the Nazis take her mind captive.In London we witness the fear of the population sheltering from the bombs, in the underground. “They were like small boats battling the fear in waves.” The people lift each other up, raising the spirits of those who are afraid.It is always good to have something to focus on. We see a newly formed drama group who need enthusiasm and not talent, to join it. This is a place where those on the outskirts of society find a place to belong.Friendship forms in times of war. There is fear when loved ones sign up to fight. Others leave London, for the (hopeful) safety of the countryside.I thoroughly enjoyed The Only Light In London. It was a powerful read, grounded in facts. I will leave you with my favourite quote“Knowing there’s light gives us strength to face the darkness.”I received a free copy. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

Lily Graham’s The Only Light in London is an emotional tear-jerker that aims straight for the heart.London, 1939 and journalist Sebastien has had to leave his homeland of Germany behind and travel to England where he wanders the streets, heartbroken at having left his beloved mother and sister behind. Yet, he knew that he had no other choice but to flee his country with the Nazis hot on his trail. However, Sebastien’s hopes for a new beginning are dashed as everyone looks at him with suspicion because of his nationality. With door after door being slammed in his face, Sebastien had almost given up hope of ever finding lodgings – until kind-hearted Finley opens her house to him.Finley makes Sebastien feel immediately at home and the two soon begin to grow closer. As their feelings for one another escalate, both of them are fully aware that their relationship does not have a future with Sebastien desperate to join the fight and to do everything he possibly can to defeat the Nazis and save his country from their cruel and barbaric regime. However, Sebastien doesn’t realize that Finley has been keeping secrets from him. Will the two of them ever get the chance to dismantle their defenses and build a life together? Can they triumph against all the odds standing in their way? Or will their love be yet another casualty of this cruel war?Lily Graham’s The Only Light in London is a stunning wartime tale of sacrifice, courage, hope and love that will leave readers breathless. Beautifully written, poignant and full of terrific period atmosphere that effortlessly transports readers back into the past, Lily Graham’s The Only Light in London is historical fiction at its best.I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Only Light in London is not your typical World War II story. It isn't about the fighting, although there is a little of that. Nor is it about spies and espionage. It is primarily a story of war on the homefront, and what it does to people, those who could be drawn into war, and those seeking to escape the devastation and loss of war. The author's research on those times makes this story even more real.We find those of Jewish descent trying to escape Germany and find freedom and safety in England, and those who live in England striving to be strong and find hope in an unsure future. We follow a young woman, Finley, as she works to form a small creative group of actors and actresses after having had a bad breakup with her boyfriend. She comes to know a Jewish refugee, and a special relationship grows between their families and the two of them.This is an emotional story, heart-rending at times, seeing all the pain and suffering, worry and despair, hopes and fears the people bear. It is a great story to read and well worth your time. I highly recommend The Only Light in London.

This was an amazing book! Mixed in with detailed descriptions of the historical tradgedys of WWII, there was light and love. Finley and Sebastian's relationship was sweet and endearing. Would absolutely recommend!

Fun characters, enough suspense to keep you reading. Good character development, easy to relate and identify with the characters. I will look for other books by Lilly graham

Didn't enjoy this book as much as her other's

Thought it started out slow, thought storyline needed help & with only being start of WW2, thought things solved pretty fast. Sorry, have read so many books of that Era, and not overly impressed.