War in the Valleys

WW1 marches on, but Violet faces her own battle at home

July 1916. Young mother, Violet Jones, lives a tough life in the Rhymney Valley, caring for 4-year-old Clarice and baby Benjy on her own while soldier husband Charlie fights on the Front Line. But when tragedy strikes, Violet’s life becomes even harder.

While they may be far from the battlefields, the effects of WW1 take their toll on the small mining community of Dorcalon, with food becoming scarce and more and more of their young men losing their lives.

With very little money coming in, and two babies to care for, Violet takes in a relative to help make ends meet. But far from easing her burden, it might turn out to be the worst decision she’s made.

As the Great War takes its toll on the nation, Violet faces her own battle. All alone in the world, can she protect her children, and herself? And will she ever find joy out of the depths of despair?

A captivating, emotional saga set in WW1 – will tug on your heart-strings and bring a tear to your eye. If you like Rosie Goodwin or Sheila Newbury you will adore this beautiful Welsh saga.

Praise for Francesca Capaldi's emotional WW1 sagas:

'Rich with well-drawn characters, twists and turns, sense of history and place...it was hard to put down. I loved it!’ Rosie Hendry, author of the East End Angels series

‘this is a really emotional book…I really enjoyed this book and fully recommend it. Worth all the stars’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review

‘worthy of a 5-star rating… a good book that commands your attention and emotions.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review

'A lovely debut saga!... Great story line and wonderful period details.’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review

‘I loved this book… I would heartily recommend it for anyone who enjoys family saga or historical fiction.’ Reader Review

‘an all-engrossing story that swept me along with it. It is a wonderful historical saga… With a hint of romance… It had me go through an array of emotions’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review

‘this is such a warm-hearted book… I would ask all readers to read this book. I loved it’ ☆☆☆☆☆ Reader Review