Sisters at War
In 1940, Will, originally an Australian, is serving aboard a British cargo steamer in the Atlantic Ocean. A German U-boat torpedoes it. Fortunately, Will and many of the crew escape on lifeboats. Later, they are picked up by an Italian merchant vessel. Will is thrilled to see his old Italian friend, Paolo; they’d served together earlier. Will persuades Paolo to leave the Italian ship, and in Liverpool, they plan to sign up together on another steamer. Paolo agrees readily, a decision he lives to regret. Paolo meets Will’s wife, Hannah, and her younger, eighteen-year-old sister, Judith. Paolo and Judith soon fall in love. As World War II rages on, Will is hired immediately on a British vessel, but Paolo finds work only in a grocery store. Later, Paolo is arrested as an enemy alien and transported. As bombs rain on Liverpool, Hannah’s agonizing about Will’s safety and Judith’s particular reason to see Paolo, creates tension between the sisters; they need to make vital choices.
Clare Flynn has produced another well-researched historical novel. Although it’s the third book of a series, it can be read singly; the needed backstory is blended in unobtrusively. This book continues with Hannah and Will’s story, as a new plot thread of Judith and Paolo’s love affair takes center stage. Some minor characters from earlier books also make appearances, such as Sam, the gay landlord, and the socialite, Nance. They play interesting supporting roles. The inclusion of a Catholic priest adds depth to the story. The delightful dialogue, peppered with colloquialisms, shows Flynn’s language skills. The disclosure of the little-known harsh treatment of Italian immigrants in Britain during WWII may raise some readers’ eyebrows. The descriptions of Liverpool’s blitz are narrated evocatively. The accounts of the sea battles are exciting, but the emotional scenes will bring tears to readers’ eyes. Highly recommended.
