A continuation of [book:The War That Saved My Life|20912424], this YA book delves further into the WWII time period in the UK. Fictional characters Ada and Jamie have spent more time with their foster mother Susan by this point. The story seemed to focus more on helping readers understand Ada's inner turmoil and mental scars, mostly caused by a prior abusive situation. I think Ada wasn't very likeable in this book though. She came across as excessively outspoken, stubborn and ungrateful. Also, this book focused too much on Lady Thornton. I got a little tired of all the household drama in every chapter based on different personalities constantly butting heads, so to speak. The introduction of a Jewish/German character into the household was a good call on the part of the author. I thought that was a suitable way to show children the differences between race, ethnicity and religion.

Overall this was still a well crafted story with some touching chapters, but not as well done as the first book.

Rating: 3.5 stars
First Published in US: 2017
Source: Library ( )

The first book blew me away, and this one does, too, but for completely different reasons. It is a delight to hear Ada's acerbic, forthright questions again, and to continue to see the world through her eyes. The war becomes more immediate, and we start to see the larger picture of WWII. At the same time this book is all about negotiating relationships, about truth, about healing, and about how bald-faced bravery turns into trust. It's not an easy story, and it's not an easy road. I think I value it all the more knowing how many children in this world are experiencing trauma or are trying to find their way back from it. This book is a little bit of a road map for that -- it doesn't pretend the rough parts don't exist, it doesn't stick with happily ever after. Great sequel to an astounding first book. ( )

This was a satisfying end to the story of Ada, Jamie and Susan. Watching Ada improve was nice and I really loved how it talked about segregation and I enjoyed Ruth. ( )

Appreciated that this book realistically showed the aftermath of trauma and abuse and showed the protagonist using different coping mechanisms to deal with her issues. Mixed feelings on how the book deals with disability. The protagonists disability is still present in her life even after her surgery and she herself obviously has complex feelings about that but I wish she didn't have so much negative self talk about it. ( )

A sequel to The War that Saved My Life, Ada’s life becomes even more complicated as World War II intensifies. With strict food rations, tight living quarters, and friends leaving to help with the war effort, Ada contemplates the meaning of friends, family, and happiness. Includes Author’s Note.