Grace Thompson Knihy

A delightful post-war saga set in a charming Welsh town The little Welsh village of Hen Carw Parc – the old deer park – seems to be an island of rural tranquility. But the inhabitants are a lively and varied community – and none more so than Nelly Luke, the cheerful Cockney widow who for many years has made the ramshackle cottage on the village outskirts her cosy, if unconventional, home.Although her eccentric lifestyle is the despair of her social-climbing daughter Evie, Nelly’s warmth and wisdom win her many friends. There’s Fay, the young newly-wed whose marriage is haunted by the all-too-substantial ghost of her first love, lost in the war; Amy, the glamorous shopkeeper whose private life is colourful indeed; and her dignified sister Prue, whose family cupboard contains more than a few skeletons.Against the mounting excitement of the Coronation summer, Nelly steers her friends and family through storm and sunshine alike…Painting a lively yet realistic picture of village life in post-war Wales, this is a heartwarming story of ordinary people and their far-from-ordinary lives. A Welcome in the Valley is the first book in Grace Thompson’s Valley sagas, and is sure to engross readers of Maureen Reynolds and Rosie Clarke. The Valley Sagas  A Welcome in the Valley Valley Affairs The Changing Valley Valley in Bloom

Set in Wales during 1917, the story follows 17-year-old Barbara Jones, whose life is turned upside down when she discovers she is pregnant after her boyfriend, Bernard, is killed while seeking work. Facing disgrace from her family and grappling with grief, she seeks solace from friends who are struggling with their own challenges. As she navigates her new reality, Barbara must confront difficult choices about her future and the well-being of her unborn child, highlighting themes of love, loss, and resilience in the face of societal judgment.

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story unfolds in St David's Wells, where Eirlys Price's decision to welcome three evacuee children leads to unexpected family secrets. As the community grapples with the challenges of wartime, themes of hope, resilience, and togetherness emerge. The narrative captures the essence of nostalgia and warmth, showcasing a vibrant small-town life poised for revival in summer. This first installment of the Holidays at Home series highlights Grace Thompson's talent for weaving engaging characters and intricate plots.

Badger's Brook becomes the refuge for Lowri Vaughan, escaping the small-town rumours and prejudices which abound about her family since her father was sent to prison for fraud and suspected murder - crimes Lowri and her mother know he didn't commit. Determined to prove her father's innocence, Lowri begins a search for the truth.

In an enthralling and heart-rending saga, Badgers Brook once again provides sanctuary for a family in need Married life hasn't been easy for Hope Murton – her mother-in-law, Marjorie, is overbearing and critical, and Hope's husband, Ralph, refuses to stand up for himself. Eventually Hope persuades him to move out and to set up a new home at Badgers Brook with their small son, Davy. Soon they are beset by tragedy when a road accident leaves Ralph confined to a wheelchair. He takes the only way out he can think of, leaving Hope destitute. Desperate not to return to her mother-in-law's house, she turns to friends for help, including local trader Peter Bevan. Can Hope overcome all that befalls her, and will she ever find true happiness? The second in the Badgers Brook series, A Girl Called Hope is a gripping tale of post-War life, filled with family and loss, secrets and romance. Grace Thompson is an acclaimed author of saga and romance novels, and a mainstay of libraries throughout the United Kingdom and beyond. Born and raised in South Wales, she is the author of numerous series, including the Valley series, the Pendragon Island series, and the Badgers Brook series. She published her 42nd novel shortly after celebrating her 80th birthday, and continues to live in Swansea.

Set in wartime Britain, the story follows the Castle family as they manage their amusement rides and stalls in St David's Wells, a seaside town thriving amidst the challenges of the era. While grappling with the absence of their sons, the family finds solace in laughter and fun, showcasing resilience and community spirit. As the fourth installment of the Holidays at Home series, this novel by Grace Thompson weaves humor and heart into the fabric of everyday life during a tumultuous time, reflecting her signature style in saga and romance writing.

Set in Wales during 1959, the story explores the lives of its characters against a backdrop of social change and personal struggles. As they navigate their relationships and ambitions, themes of identity and belonging emerge, reflecting the broader cultural shifts of the time. The narrative delves into the complexities of human emotions and the impact of historical events on everyday life, providing a poignant glimpse into a pivotal era in Welsh history.

Set in 1954 Wales, the story follows Ruth Thomas, who has devoted her life to raising her brothers after their parents' death, sacrificing her own aspirations. As her brothers marry and start their own families, Ruth grapples with feelings of displacement and confusion about her identity and desires. With the steadfast Henry by her side, she faces the challenge of discovering what happiness truly means for her. The revelation of a family secret forces Ruth to confront betrayal and ultimately seek her own fulfillment amidst changing dynamics.

Set in South Wales during 1953, the story examines the lives of Zena Martin and her brother Greg as they navigate love and family tragedy. Just as Zena plans to announce her engagement to Jake, their father’s sudden death unveils hidden secrets that shatter their happiness. Zena's confidence in her relationship falters, while Greg faces heartbreak when Rose abruptly departs. The revelation of their mother’s shocking secret forces both siblings to confront the fragility of their dreams and the impact of the past on their futures.

The reflections in this book express a grandparent's deep gratitude for God's blessings throughout life, particularly the treasure of family. It emphasizes the desire to embody Christ's love and serve as a positive example for children and grandchildren. The author seeks to grow spiritually and encourages others through wisdom and support, recognizing the importance of sharing unique talents. With a focus on faith and legacy, the narrative highlights a commitment to living a life that honors God and fosters a lasting Christian heritage.