The Lost English Girl

The story revolves around Viv, a young Catholic girl who marries Joshua, a Jewish boy, after becoming pregnant. During the 1930s and 40s, unwed mothers weren't treated well by society. Furthermore, interfaith marriages were also looked down upon, making Viv's life even more complicated.

Reading this book made me experience a range of emotions. First, I felt angry about how Viv was treated by her family, her husband, and society, especially her manipulative mother. Mothers should unconditionally love their children.

I was also saddened and conflicted when school-age children were sent away to ensure their safety when war was declared. But,I appreciated how Viv's mother-in-law eventually took responsibility and offered her support, despite her unhappiness with the marriage.

And finally, I loved Viv's courage as she forged ahead alone and always kept her daughter's welfare in mind when making decisions.