The War Nurses
As war takes its toll, the love and care of two brave young nurses will become everything to the wounded soldiers they tend. A gritty, emotional read inspired by an amazing true story.
1914 – Two young nurses pledge to help the war effort: Mairi, a wholesome idealist hoping to leave behind her past and Elsie, a glamorous single mother with a weakness for handsome soldiers. Despite their differences, the pair become firm friends.
At the emergency medical shelter where they’re based, Elsie and Mairi work around the clock to treat wounded soldiers. It’s heart-breaking work and they are at constant risk from shelling, fire and disease. But there are also happier times… parties, trips and letters. And maybe even the possibility of love with an attractive officer in their care…
But as the war continues and the stress of duty threatens to pull the two women apart, will Elsie and Mairi’s special nurses’ bond be strong enough to see them through?
A powerfully moving wartime saga – you won’t want to put it down!
Readers absolutely love The War Nurses
‘I couldn’t put this book down. Reading about the raw details of war time events was quite emotional … a gritty, raw and touching novel which left me wanting more… Such a wonderful, wonderful book. Loved it.’
The Writing Garnet
‘I blinking well loved it… really did put me through the emotional wringer and I felt a lump in my throat on more than one occasion… I absolutely loved reading this heart-wrenching but incredibly moving tale about the horrors of war and how strong friendships can be formed under the most trying of circumstances.’
Ginger Book Geek
‘I absolutely loved this beautifully written book, and was so absorbed in the story that I did not want it to end…This is a book to savour… A poignant, absolutely stunning tale, one of the best books set during the war that I have had the pleasure of reading – very highly recommended.’
Renita D’Silva
‘All the stars and full marks to the author for a most fascinating, high calibre, superbly written read. I literally couldn’t put it down.’
Mrs Bloggs The Average Reader
‘A great book full of friendship and hope during the war. Lizzie has written a compelling book bringing many emotions to the surface. A brilliant saga novel. Can’t wait for the next one.’
Chells and Books
‘A brilliant read… truly raw and emotional throughout… it’s impossible to put the book down. Just a wonderful, emotional read that I won’t forget in a hurry.’
Goodreads reviewer
‘What a unique story, told from a different perspective, I truly enjoyed every page of this book, fantastic storyline and characters. I will be recommending this book.’
Michelle’s Book Cave
‘An impressively written tale of love, friendship, courage… I was blown away by this outstanding historical novel.
Bookish Jottings
‘Lizzie Page has done an amazing job at breathing life into two characters who ought to be better known for their fearless and heroic acts… an incredible story and I was hooked by it from beginning to end.’
Short Books and Scribes
‘At times I had to suspend disbelief – only to later find that the unbelievable things were true. Because Mairi and Elsie really did exist – and Page breathes life into their story.’
Goodreads reviewer
‘Completely spellbinding – I absolutely loved it. The storyline is wonderful and the characters just bounce off the page. I love how she’s captured the essence of the time.’
Elizabeth Gill, bestselling author of Nobody’s Child
‘A very good read… I was amazed at what both women did during the war… An inspiring and eye-opening book.’
Goodreads reviewer
The War Nurses were inspired by Elsie Knocker and Mairi Chisholm, two fantastic young women who volunteered to nurse at the outbreak of the First World War.
Dare-devil motorcyclists and nurses, they were determined to get closer to the action to save the lives of the injured and they lived for nearly four years in a cellar house only yards from the Western Front. As part of my research, I went on a fascinating trip to Ypres, read a lot and spent many an afternoon in the First World War section at the Imperial War Museum.
Once the book was published, I met Elsie’s great granddaughter: the wonderful Sally Knocker and she was, fortunately, lovely about the book.
The War Nurses has also been translated into Dutch.