The Book of Lost Children

by Philip Eliot | Jul 15, 2026 | Historical Fiction | 0 comments

A wartime nurse risks everything to protect mothers and babies in Nazi-occupied Guernsey. Decades later, a hidden record reveals a devastating family truth. Based on a remarkable true story of one woman’s extraordinary courage.Guernsey, 1943. As German forces tighten their grip on the Channel Islands, nurse Evelyn Nightingale guards a dangerous secret. Within the walls of the Emergency Hospital, she’s hidden three babies from the enemy – children who would otherwise face a terrible fate. When a traumatized French woman arrives to give birth, Evelyn must risk everything – with consequences that will echo through the generations.Dublin, 2018. Still reeling from her mother’s death, Kitty White is struggling to keep her family’s antique shop afloat when a desperate woman arrives with an old violin to sell. Hidden in its dusty case, Kitty discovers a mysterious list of names that shatters her father’s composure. Her search for answers leads her to Guernsey, where she is about to uncover a long-buried secret about her family…Inspired by true historical events, this heart-wrenching tale will stay with you long after the last page. If you were gripped by The Nightingale, The Alice Network and The Paris Library, you must read The Book of Lost Children.What readers are saying about The Book of Lost Children‘Nothing short of extraordinary. Evelyn’s courage as a wartime nurse in Nazi-occupied Guernsey was incredibly moving… This book not only sheds light on a remarkable piece of history but also explores the lasting impact of sacrifice, family, and love. It’s a deeply emotional journey that I won’t forget.’ Reader review, ?????‘A fantastic read, I honestly loved everything about it and I couldn’t put it down. I read it in a few hours. I loved the writing, I loved the dual timelines…’ Reader review, ?????‘Oh, this book warmed my heart and shattered my soul… The author expertly weaves the two timelines together, introducing the reader to unforgettable characters and heartbreaking scenarios… This powerful book is not to be missed, and I will be thinking about it for a long time.’ Reader review, ?????‘A poignant and heart wrenching story that will stay with you long after you put down the book… O’Brien brings to life the victims of war as no mere historical record can do; her writing is elegant and her portrayal of her characters is moving.’ Reader review, ?????‘A compelling and captivating read that I won’t soon forget… Jenny O’Brien does an amazing job of bringing the two stories together… The book is beautifully written and I felt like I was right there with both ladies.’ Reader review, ?????‘Remarkable story that made me cry… I loved it.’ Reader review, ?????‘A heartbreaking yet uplifting read… This is a truly emotional read and one that will have you reading well into the night.’ Reader review, ?????‘An utterly compelling and emotional read that will stay with me for a long time.’ Reader review, ?????‘A stunning work of historical fiction based on a true story… This is a phenomenal story that is beautifully written… I loved the way the author wound them together in the end.’ Reader review, ?????‘I got so caught up in this story. A WWII tale of a nurse who is secretly helping the mothers and babies. What a terrible time in history, although so well written. Loved it! Reader review, ?????‘The historical accuracy of this book along with the to-date accuracy, blew my mind away. This author did her homework! A dual timeline book which keeps you riveted to the end.’ Reader review, ?????‘Fantastic book well written and based on fact. A gut-wrenching story.’ Reader review, ?????