These Days

In These Days, two sisters navigate love and survival during the Belfast Blitz, facing personal struggles amid wartime chaos and societal expectations.

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Belfast Blitz, These Days tells the poignant story of two sisters, Emma and Audrey, as they navigate the complexities of love and survival during a time of war. The narrative unfolds in April 1941, a moment when Belfast has managed to avoid the worst of the conflict, yet the shadows of danger loom large. Emma is on the verge of marriage, while Audrey is entangled in a secret relationship that defies societal norms. Their lives intertwine as they face the realities of their choices amidst the chaos surrounding them.

These Days delves deep into the emotional landscape of its characters, exploring themes of family loyalty, personal identity, and the struggle to remain true to oneself in the face of societal expectations. As the sisters confront the horrors of the Blitz, they must also grapple with their own desires and fears. The story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, showcasing how love can flourish even in the darkest of times.

This novel has garnered critical acclaim, winning prestigious awards such as the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction and the E. M. Forster Award. It has been praised for its meticulous research and beautifully crafted prose, creating a vivid and immersive reading experience that resonates with readers. These Days is not just a tale of wartime survival; it is a heartfelt exploration of the bonds that hold us together, even when the world around us is falling apart.