‘The Irish Nanny’ by Sandy Taylor is a heartbreaking historical fiction saga set in the Second World War. An expertly weaved story that really does make an emotional read. This is my first Sandy Taylor book and, again, I am so glad I am a blogger. It helps me discover little gems of authors that I wouldn’t otherwise discover.
While working in Cork at a hotel with her best friend Polly, Rose Brown is offered a position within a family working in England. She knows the money will be so welcomed by her family in Ballykillen, so she takes it. Her position has her looking after her employers wife as she has never recovered from the loss of their son. As events conspire so David, her employer, has to travel back to America and leaves Rose to take charge of the family and be the one who is relied on in the absence of David as war is announced.
As Rose and the family set sail to travel back to America and David there is tragedy. Leaving Rose having to take the lead once again. Rose lands on American soil with the baby, Sarah in her sole charge. This is the start of a new chapter for them all. Rose begins to settle into her new life and starts to make new friends. America gets brought into the war and David decides to go to war, leaving Rose and Sarah alone once again. What is in store for Rose, Sarah and David? Will they get through the war unscathed?
This is a book that’s an excellently written immersive historical fiction saga which easily whisked me away to the war years with Rose on her journey. I could do nothing but hope Rose survived through the traumas she experiences over the years. A character that made me so emotional with everything life throws at her, I was rooting for her from the start. A strong woman who ploughs through everything with a positivity that makes you want to give her a round of applause. Ultimately as she takes on Sarah she gives her all her love and Sandy Taylor has it all shining through it all in her excellent writing.
An enthralling book that is overflowing with love, suspense, loss and even romance. The characters are so believable and relatable, especially Rose. Such a heartbreaking read which I thoroughly enjoyed. Highly recommended for anyone who loves historical fiction sagas.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for my copy of the book.
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