Where Daffodils Bloom: Based on the True Story of a WWII War Bride

Written by Leya Delray

Narrated by Judith Bareham

The bestselling biographical novel, now on audiobook!

In a tiny town on the coast of Lancashire, Lily Brown is trying to hold her world together.

With England in the throes of World War II, her alcoholic father a prisoner overseas, and her mother struggling to make ends meet, she is convinced marrying her wealthy suitor is the best way to take care of her family.

Until a blue-eyed American soldier turns her life upside-down.

Based on a true story, this beautifully researched biographical novel follows Lily’s journey as she finds herself torn between the country she loves and the man who has stolen her heart. Haunted by dark memories, afraid of putting aside her own plans, and faced with a future nothing like what she expected, will she find the courage and faith to forge a new life in America?

Or will she let her fears—and the past she can’t let go of—destroy her chance for happiness with the man who adores her?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ink River Press
• Release date: Aug 30, 2020
• ISBN: 9781662264467

Reviews for Where Daffodils Bloom

[Barbara Weaver · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love true stories and it’s refreshing to read a story about someone that is truly committed to their wife and is turned off by cheap women that are seductive and unfaithful to their own husbands . This world would be a better place if there were more men like that .

[Sarah Rich · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is a wonderful story full of real life highs and lows. It was a glimpse into the lives of my grandparents' generation. I loved everything about it except the narrator's atrocious attempt at American and (especially) Southern-region American accents.

[Margaret · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

As a Christian i just loved this book. So refreshing to get into a book where there's no swearing etc., plus I loved the fact it was based on a true story from the Second World War. Great to get into a book that you just can't put down. Looking forward to reading or listening to more books by this great author.

[Debbie Jayne Doolin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Just finished this absolutely brilliant book, and am already planning on giving it to at least three (or four) loved ones for Christmas!

The audiobook was top notch, with an outstanding narrator!! Well done!!

It's awe-inspiring to know how closely this was based upon a true story, and to observe God working miracles throughout when family members chose, sometimes against their own instincts, to trust. I come away inspired to "trust Him more" and to patiently wait for our family's story as it unfolds, looking for His-story in it. (Am also re-inspired to write down the unique stories my parents and grandparents have told). Sometimes it's in the little things!

I laughed out loud a number of times, and chuckled, too; wept , grew incensed, sighed, rejoiced, got goosebumps, and even found myself praying a time or two! Also learned many things about British English vs American English, and war and post war eras.

In my humble opinion, THIS is a DEFINITE KEEPER!

Highly recommend the audio book (multiple accents) - but OH, will this reader ever rush out to purchase a good old fashioned paperback version, too!

[Julie Renner · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Loved the authenticity ! Could see the time and love put into it. Loved the way it carried me through the story!

[Gretchen Grace Harrison · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I completely respect the story and understand it was based on real lives at another point in time. I am concerned, however, with one of the themes of forgiveness that actually supported victims of physical abuse staying in relationships in which domestic violence figures prominently.

[Elaine Hone · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love historical novels. The story gave me new insight on war brides and the struggles of coming to a new country to settle.

[Denise Wellman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Very beautifully written. Her descriptions are craftfully interwoven within the story.

[Brenda Shealey Steele · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Not enough story . Too drawn out. ………….. sorry but was not interesting. But a story worth telling. I was expecting more!

[gloria glidewell · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Really good story line that holds one’s interest. I did take issue with two things. One is that Lilly was suddenly a “nurse” with no previous education ( unless edited out of this audio version), training, experience. Like getting a job as a cashier or dishwasher. So very disrespectful to nurses and the very intense training, education and hard won achievements it actually takes to be a nurse. The other is presenting staying with an abusive husband as loyalty, faithful and righteous. I truly hope no spouses or children follow this example and loose their lives or get seriously injured by taking this example to heart and allowing abuse to be perpetuated. That’s not love, it is illness and I would not have read this and could not recommend it to anyone b cause of that portrayal. I believe be in love and forgiveness but leaving abuse is survival not a betrayal.

[Pam Creeper · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Loved it ❤️thanks for the memories would recommend it to all

[martha wessinger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is so good and I enjoyed it knowing it is a true story. The author gives credit to family members who recalled the events, time and people within this well written story! I thoroughly enjoyed the listen.

[sharon dean · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Lovely story about a lovely family. Well written and couldn’t wait to see what happened what a story !

[Barbara Latham · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was an interesting story, but the constant references to Jesus and God didn't stike a chord with me. Although I understand that it was part of the truthful portrayal of the characters, I often found it annoying. I know this is something that the author can't change, and wouldn't change, and neither should she in order to be true to herself, I write this for future readers who might feel the same way as I do.

[Sharon Neill · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Tape keeps skipping at several places . That is all