Just So Stories

Harper Collins Australia

• ISBN: 9781038903891
• ISBN 10: 1038903890
• Imprint: HQ Fiction AU
• RRP: $34.99

As always, Jackie’s historical fiction is perfection. I was aware of this one in progress and, in fact, had had some (email) conversation with the author about this period, and in particular Edward known as David, the Duke of Windsor.

My anecdote was that my Father Bear had met him en route to England for his transfer from the ADF to the RAF. A stopover in New York had the Duke come to meet&greet those on the troop ship. Dad said when he shook the Duke’s hand, it was like grasping a dead fish and called him a limp-wristed traitor, and what a good thing they shafted him. [Don’t hold back Dad, tell me what you really thought LOL.]

But I think his views reflected those of many, and since the war over the years, as more and more of the whole backstory comes to light, there is no doubt in my mind, that he was right. Good thing that they shafted him.

I know Jackie’s research is impeccable, and I also know she is often able to ferret out information and documents that have long been ignored or hidden, all of which makes her historical fiction all the more riveting. I read this immediately I received it back in April, and please don’t think I wasn’t impressed, and hence the delay in reviewing. It has just been overtaken by all the kids’ books. I took it with me on our little quick trip to Canberra and ate it up over three nights – all 450ish pages of it.

Dee’s story is enthralling. Raised by her grandparents in their ancestral stately home, she is left as the sole carer for her much-loved grandfather, the Duke of Claverton, in a rambling castle that is literally falling to pieces.

The war clouds are gathering, and her grandfather knows this. He also knows that due to his health, his lifespan is not going to see it. But he manages to provide for Dee, with a cottage adjacent to the entailed formerly grand home, with special and priceless antiques, craftily transferred there along with wine, stocks of foodstuffs and other things that will soon be unobtainable.

When war comes, so does high drama, some spycraft, treachery, friendships, and love to Lady Deanna known as Dee. Along with a parcel of ready-made daughters, Jewish girls who have managed to inveigle themselves into a bunch of evacuated children. From Claverton Castle to the outback of Australia via one special pilot, it’s just impossible to put down, I can assure you.

I loved it and, honestly, every time I read a new one, I say – this is my favourite! – and then another one comes along. But this one, I think, really is because of the connections I could make. It’s a cracker! If you have been slow to pounce on it, you should do so without delay! It gets a stately 5 🏰🏰🏰🏰🏰 rating for anyone from older teens upwards.