Nineteen Steps

Love blooms in the darkest days…

From global star Millie Bobby Brown comes the heart-wrenching, life-affirming WW2 historical romance inspired by the true events of her family's history.

'Will make you swoon, laugh, and even cry' Daily Mirror

'A dazzling debut' Woman's Own

'A spellbinding read' Fiona Davis

★★★

London, 1942.

Despite the raging war, spirited 18-year-old Nellie Morris lives a quiet life in the tight-knit East End community of Bethnal Green. Her family and friends all tease that she will marry air raid warden Billy, the boy next door who’s always been sweet on her.

The arrival of Ray, a handsome American airman stationed nearby, causes Nellie to question everything she thought she knew about her future.

Nellie’s new-found happiness is short-lived when a tragic accident occurs during an air raid. Even the closest family can’t escape the devastation of war, and as the secrets and truth about that fateful night become clear, they threaten to tear Nellie – and those dearest to her – apart.

’There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered…You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.’ New York Times

Reviews

Inspired by the true events of her family history, Millie Bobby Brown’s dazzling debut novel is a moving tale of longing, loss and secrets, and the lengths that we will go to fight for love.

’There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered…You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.’ New York Times

‘This novel will make you swoon, laugh, and even cry, because some parts are truly devastating, especially when you remember it's based on true events…It’s thought-provoking and easy to read – one to pop on your cosy autumn TBR pile.’ Daily Mirror

‘Millie Bobby Brown’s debut novel beautifully portrays her grandmother’s experience…[and] shrewdly portrays the difficult history of a tragedy that is often overlooked.’ The i Paper

‘A dazzling debut.’ Woman’s Own

‘A brilliant debut novel inspired by the true events of Millie Bobby Brown’s family history.’ Closer

‘Shines a brilliant light on a dark moment in history. Full of heartbreak and hope, with characters you'll root hard for and will stay in your heart for a long time to come.’ Kristin Harmel

‘A remarkable debut. Her tale of first love, poignant regrets, and the search for the truth makes for a spellbinding read. Enthralling.’ Fiona Davis

‘A sweet, sensitive coming-of-age story. Nineteen Steps is a lovely read for fans everywhere.’ Kate Quinn