The Runaway Children: Gripping and heartbreaking historical fiction / Sandy Taylor

A heart-wrenching, unforgettable journey of two evacuee sisters during World War Two as they try to find their way home…

London, 1942: Thirteen-year-old Nell and five-year-old Olive are being sent away to the countryside to escape the devastation of the East End during the Blitz. Leaving behind their beloved mother and brothers, they don’t know if they will ever see them again.

As the sisters adjust to their new life in a close-knit Welsh village, they gradually find hope in the friendships they make. And Nell kindles a special bond with fellow evacuee Jimmy, who makes her smile even at the hardest of times.

But when little Olive’s safety is threatened, Nell makes a decision that will change their lives forever. They must run from danger and find their way home.

Together, through tears and laughter, the two sisters hold each other’s hands as they make an incredibly brave journey across bombed-out Britain. Will they be reunited with the family they have missed for so many years? Or is there more heartache to come?

An unputdownable story of unconditional love, friendship and the fight for survival during a time of unimaginable change. This book is guaranteed to find a place in your heart. If you enjoyed Orphan Train and The Girl With No Name you’ll love this book.

What readers are saying about Sandy Taylor:

‘Oh my word I honestly can't remember the last time a book made me feel so emotional. Well this book made me laugh one minute and bawl my eyes out the next. It was absolutely brilliant. Right from the first page I was glued to it and just didn't want to put it down. Sandy Taylor is one amazing writer and the way she writes and describes the character really pulls you into the story. I can't recommend this book highly enough. It is simply amazing.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘This is one of the most endearing, yet heart-breaking, novels that I have encountered in quite some time and will certainly not soon forget. Filled with unexpected twists and turns, you'll want to keep the box of tissues nearby! FIVE stars.’ Kimberly’s Bookshelf

‘Brilliant! Love this author and was excited to read this. Another heartfelt story of a family's determination through the war, I devoured this in one sitting.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘I absolutely loved The Runaway Children by Sandy Taylor. It was a charming book with wonderful characters. Two sisters were evacuated from London in 1942 to the Welsh countryside… The story is very emotional and uplifting. This is the first book from this author that I have read and I will certainly be reading more of her work. Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars

‘The Runaway Children is a book that readers will treasure. It’s one of those reads that is timeless and will be enjoyed for many years to come. Mesmerizing, beautiful, sweet, funny, I just adored The Runaway Children and feel bereft at having now finished it. Without a doubt this is one book I could read again and again and I know I will love it even more than the last time I read it. Simply wonderful!’ By the Letter Book reviews, 5 stars

‘I absolutely adore this author. She has a way of transporting you to the world of her stories and the lives of her characters - books like hers are why I read. This was a beautiful book – And this tale - wow! I was invested in the lives of the characters, I lived out their dramas and came away changed… This is a stunningly written masterpiece of a book that I will be thinking of for a long time. Loved it. Highly recommend it to everyone.’ Renita D’Silva, 5 stars