Sisters at War is a wonderful, life-affirming story, every page filled with warmth and generosity for the characters. It left me feeling uplifted and hopeful that the good in people will always shine through. It usually does, no matter what we may see or hear in the news.
It reminded me of all those lovely films I watched on a Sunday afternoon with my mum, dad and sisters – an extended family, pulling together, making mistakes, righting wrongs and trying to be better people. I found it immensely moving and admired so very much the bravery of people in wartime – whether they were serving in the forces or doing their bit in Civvy Street. There are so many unsung heroes in any time of difficulty and the pages of Milly Adam’s latest book reveal the hardships and stoicism that challenged them.
Bryony and Hannah are sisters but they couldn’t be more different. Hannah is selfish and Bryony selfless.
Hannah is young and headstrong, no one will stop her from doing what she wants, and she wants to stay in Jersey. Bryony is happiest amongst her family and loved ones, and at Combe Lodge everyone is pitching in. The family home has filled with evacuees and Bryony has joined the ATA, helping to ferry planes across the country, whatever the risk.
When Jersey is occupied by the enemy, Bryony knows she needs to reach out to save her sister. But is she too late?
Hannah was infuriating, I could have wrung her neck at times. Bryony, sensible, brave and daring, a risk taker who sometimes makes the wrong decision. But you will love all of the characters because they are so finely drawn. I feel they are my neighbours, my friends – and I miss them.
Sisters at War is about the choices we make, how we can right the wrongs, learn from our mistakes and hopefully, try and redeem ourselves. Milly Adams shows us that it is never too late, and that forgiveness is a way forward. Her characters are not all goody, goodies – they are human; struggling to find love and hope, and make sense of a world turned upside down.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first Milly Adams novel and anyone who has read it will not be disappointed by this, her second. If you haven’t read Above us the Sky then lucky you; you’ve got it all to look forward to.