The Clockmaker’s Wife

Written by Daisy Wood

Narrated by Sophie Bentinck

The world is at war. And time is running out…

London, 1940. Britain is gripped by the terror of the Blitz, forcing Nell Spelman to flee the capital with her young daughter – leaving behind her husband, Arthur, the clockmaker who keeps Big Ben chiming. 

When Arthur disappears, Nell is desperate to find him. But her search will lead her into far darker places than she ever imagined… 

New York, Present Day. When Ellie discovers a beautiful watch that had once belonged to a grandmother she never knew, she becomes determined to find out what happened to her. But as she pieces together the fragments of her grandmother’s life, she begins to wonder if the past is better left forgotten… 

A powerful and unforgettable tale of fierce love, impossible choices and a moment that changes the world forever, perfect for fans of for fans of Jennifer Chiaverini and Hazel Gaynor.

Readers love Daisy Wood:

'A ticking time-bomb of intrigue, wrapped around stark but rich descriptions of the Blitz. An unforgettable wartime debut.' Mandy Robotham, internationally bestselling author of The Berlin Girl

‘I couldn’t put it down. My favourite kind of historical fiction.’ Reviewer

‘Wonderful.’ Reviewer

‘Brilliantly captures the essence of 1940s England. Highly recommended!’ Reviewer

Set between WWII and today, and America and England, I totally loved this outstandingly amazing book. Five stars!’ Reviewer

‘Daisy Wood skillfully navigates between two timelines, and her descriptions of the war are really masterful.’ Reviewer

‘The perfect blend of historical fiction and espionage.’ Reviewer

‘Beautifully written… I highly recommend this treasure!’ Reviewer

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
• Release date: Jul 8, 2021
• ISBN: 9780008467173

Daisy Wood

Daisy Wood worked in publishing for some years before leaving to concentrate on her own writing. She has had several children’s books published, both historical and contemporary, and is happiest rooting about in the London Library on the pretext of research. She lives in south London and when not locked away in her study can be seen in various city parks, running after a rescue Pointer with a Basset Hound in tow.

Reviews for The Clockmaker’s Wife

[Michelle Fine · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

The story itself was okay. However, the narration was HORRIBLE - one of the absolute worst narrators I have ever listened to. Not only was the reading dull but the narrator can be audibly heard swallowing, clacking her lips, and snorting through her nose throughout. Not fully sure the decision to use this narrator as it completely distracts from being engaged in the story.

[Jennifer Flather · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Decent though the narrator' American accents left much to be desired

[heatherlinc · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres but I couldn't get into this one. Like so many novels in this genre, there were dual timelines (a past and a present) and as usual, I preferred the historical one, although neither protagonist really impressed me. They lacked substance and were often irritating. What I enjoyed the most was all the interesting facts about Big Ben but otherwise a mediocre read.

[twink_2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

WWII fiction is all the rage these days. And if you're a fan of historical fiction, you're going to want to add Daisy Wood's new novel, The Clockmaker's Wife to your TBR list.Nell and Arthur Spelman and their wee daughter Alice are living in London in 1940. With the blitz hitting too close to home, Nell and Alice go to live with her parents in the country. But, Arthur's job is too important for him to leave - he is a clockmaker who keeps the iconic Big Ben chiming.Fast forward to present day America. Ellie finds a beautiful but broken watch in her mother Alice's belongings. It once belonged to - yes, you guessed it - Alice's mother Nell. Ellie knows nothing of her grandparents and her mother doesn't have much to offer her either. Ellie is determined to find her history for both herself and her mother. But what she finds isn't what she expected.I love stories like this that go back and forth from past to present. I was initially caught up short when a crucial piece of Nell's life is presented very early on. But once I discovered this bit, I realized it wasn't a spoiler, and instead I became very curious.I loved the 'past' chapters so much - characters that 'just got on with it', the sense of community, camaraderie and stalwartness. Wood did an admirable job creating wonderful characters that I easily engaged with. The settings were just as well drawn to with detailed descriptions that created vivid mental pictures. I loved Nell - and her love for Arthur. Nell's got gumption, smarts and a strong sense of duty to her country. The supporting cast is just as well drawn.Ellie in present day was just as engaging. She's curious, kind and determined as well. I enjoyed the romantic thread woven into this narrative. What Ellie finds in Britain isn't what she had expected. She continues to search for bits of Nell's life even as the reader become privy to what happened to Nell in the past. The lead up to the final answer is action filled. The ending to the present day thread is perfect. Of the two timelines, I have to say I was drawn more to the war years. The Clockmaker's Wife was a wonderful read and I recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction.

[cassiesbooksreader · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Clockmaker’s Wife by Daisy Wood is a Split Time historical thriller novel set in 1940 England and America Present Day. It started a little slow but Eleanor’s story builds quickly and was very exciting. Eleanor‘s granddaughter researches the past and what really happened in 1940‘s London to her grandmother. There are Nazis, plots, spys, suspense, loyalty, family and above all love. I especially enjoyed the historical details of 1940‘s England and the clocks. Intricate plots with well developed characters that had important parts to play in Eleanor’s life story. Daisy Wood is a new author to me but I look forward to reading more of her books. Don’t miss this thrilling book of World War II from a different perspective. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars