When the World Stood Still

Kate Eastham

The nurses were putting in twelve-hour shifts now, day and night. Emily felt broken inside, dried out, not even capable of tears. They were short-staffed after a softly spoken Irish nurse had died from the unstoppable disease and two more had fallen ill. And more patients were coming in every hour, though the hospital beds were already full…

Wartime London. Twenty-year-old Emily Burdon has been training as a nurse, learning on the job as she tends to patients from the crowded poorhouses that ring the hospital as well as wounded soldiers. She pours her heart into her nursing while she waits for happier times – peace in Europe and the return of her childhood sweetheart Lewis from battle.

But when the deadly Spanish Flu arrives in London on the heels of the war, Emily’s faith and courage are put to the test. All around her men and women in the prime of their lives are wasting away, and until a cure is found there is nothing for Emily and her colleagues to do.

But then Lewis admits to a devastating betrayal, just as a new doctor is transferred to head up Emily’s ward. From the distant land of Prince Edward Island in Canada, Dr James Cantor is the first of a generations-old farming family to have left the island, and wartime London feels a long way away from the rugged beauty of his homeland. But despite their differences, he and Emily find common ground in their passion for helping patients. But with life forever changed around her and Lewis’ future hanging by a thread, can Emily survive the most terrible epidemic in the history with her life – and heart – intact?

A heartbreaking historical novel based on true history – emotional and unforgettable. Perfect for fans of Jean Grainger, The Beantown Girls and Diney Costeloe.

What readers are saying about When the World Stood Still:
‘Be prepared with a large box of tissues, clear your schedule before you start reading this book. A heartbreaking yet uplifting emotional book that will definitely stay long with you after you finish it.’ Life Between the Lines, 5 stars

‘A wonderful historical fiction novel. I adored this book.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘A moving and heartbreaking novel!’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars

‘I absolutely loved this story… ended way too quickly.’ SassyBookworm, 5 stars

‘Love Kate Eastham’s books… Can’t wait for more. Excellent reading!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘What a timely book this is!… so inspiring.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘A riveting story… Emily is a strong and relatable character… heartbreaking.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

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