Synopses & Reviews
Helen Humphreys draws on history to delve into the lives torn asunder by the German attack of November 14, 1940. Harriet, a widow from World War I, is atop Coventry Cathedral, part of the nightly watch, when first the factories and then the church itself are set on fire. In the ensuing chaos she bonds with a young man, very much like the husband she lost, who relies on her to find the way back to his home where he left his mother. On their journey through a hell of burning shops and collapsed homes, Harriet awakens to emotions she had long put aside. At home, the youth's mother awaits his arrival and rethinks the life that has brought her to this city and her life raising her son alone. Ultimately, together these two women must face a world as immeasurably changed as their own selves.
Review
"Packs a tremendous emotional punch . . . adeptly depicts how the random intersection of lives can impact destiny." Booklist
Review
"Starred Review. With stark, precise poetry, Humphreys builds a palpable, almost unbearable sense of inevitability and loss that echoes both Jon Hersey's and Ian McEwan's ." Kirkus Reviews
Synopsis
On the evening of November 14, 1940, Harriet Marsh stands on the roof of the historic Coventry cathedral and marvels at the frost glittering beneath a full moon. But it is a bomber's moon, and the Luftwaffe is coming to unleash destruction on the city. For Harriet; for the young fire watcher, Jeremy, standing beside her; and for his artist mother, Maeve, hiding in a cellar, this single night of horror will resonate for the rest of their lives. is a testament to the power of the human spirit, an honest and ultimately uplifting account of heartache transformed into compassion and love.
Synopsis
"Elegant . . . illuminates the impact of war on ordinary people . . . an elegy and a celebration."--Ann Hood, author of
About the Author
Helen Humphreys, a poet and novelist, is the author of The Lost Garden, Afterimage, Leaving Earth, and Coventry. She lives in Kingston, Ontario.