The Runaway Sisters: A heartbreaking and unforgettable World War 2 historical novel

The story of two sisters fighting to survive in the darkest days of World War Two. A heartbreaking tale of resilience and bravery, about having the courage to sacrifice yourself in order to save the ones you love…

Devon, present day: Helen Cavendish’s relationship with her mother has always been strained. Her mother is quiet and stoic, with no other family to speak of, but as Helen goes through her mother’s possessions, packing her up to move her to a care home, she finds photographs of two little evacuee girls that will change everything she thought she knew…

1940: When fifteen-year-old Daisy is evacuated from her home in London, she knows she must look after her younger sister Peggy. She is the only one who can reassure Peggy that life will go back to normal, holding her close and reading to her from their one battered children’s book.

But when the sisters are taken into the countryside, Daisy quickly realises that not everyone at home is on the right side of the war. Forced to work in fields alongside orphan children, she finds herself drawn to a young boy called John, who has tried and failed to escape many times before. He protects the other children, and his bravery inspires Daisy.

Then Peggy gets sick and Daisy knows that, to save her life, they must run away. As the sounds of German engines grow louder above her, Daisy is faced with an impossible choice: escape with just her sister, or risk her life to save others? It’s a choice that is destined to affect her family for generations…

Perfect for fans of Lisa Wingate, Diney Costeloe and Shirley Dickson, The Runaway Sisters is a tale of heartwrenching loss and uplifting courage. It’s a story about family, and the light that can be found in the dark clouds of war.

What readers are saying about The Runaway Sisters:

‘Oh my word this book was totally brilliant. Right from the first chapter I was drawn into this story… This was at times an emotional read so keep the tissues handy.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘Brought me to tears on several occasions… Grabbed me from the very first chapter, and I was hooked the whole way through the book, captivated by the wartime story… Not just a heartbreaking story but also heart-warming at times. It will definitely pull at your heartstrings and make you reach for your tissues!’ Stardust Book Reviews

‘OMG what can I say brilliant book – very emotional. Total engrossed… Would recommend to everyone.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘Totally captivated my interests… Ann brought real life to these characters and made us cry and laugh and love and hurt so now I feel like I truly know them and don't want to just walk away.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘I loved reading this book, it draws you in and pulls at the heartstrings… Brilliant.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘A heartbreaking story of heartache, and the courage to take chances and the determination to right wrongs. Extraordinary.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘I couldn’t put this book down, read it in no time… Loved it, recommend it.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘I loved this book so much I went out and purchased every other book Ann Bennett has… Written so well and got me totally caught up… I would recommend this story to anyone.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘This book captured my attention from the first and held it until the end. It brought tears to my eyes at times and smiles to my face at others. It was truly a great read… I still have tears writing this review.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘A beautifully written story.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘Had me completely absorbed… Emotional, packed with suspense, drama, romance, tension and much more. I could not put it down and it will be one of those books that stay with me for a long time after… A page-turning, heart-wrenching historical novel.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars