An emotional WWII historical novel, based on real events

A forbidden romance in occupied Norway…

Narvik, 1940.

After Laila awakens to the sight of warships in the fjord, it isn't long before she turns resistor to the brutal Nazi regime. She is horrified when local girls begin affairs with enemy soldiers, yet against her own principles, she finds herself falling in love with German soldier, Josef.

Josef is not like the others. He becomes involved in helping her and the locals with resistance activities, risking his life on more than one occasion.

But then Laila finds out she is pregnant. With Josef sent to the Russian front, and Laila cast out by her family, she turns to a home for women which promises to care for her and her unborn child. But instead, she finds herself caught in a system of evil far beyond what she thought possible…

A Mother's War is a powerful tale of the bond between mother and child, and fighting against the odds. Fans of Suzanne Goldring, Mandy Robotham and Debbie Rix will devour this unforgettable novel.

Praise for Helen Parusel:

'This debut shines a light on a little known, but no less vital, corner of the war - events we should all know about. Fascinating' Mandy Robotham, author of The War Pianist

'The layers of deception Laila encounters at the Lebensborn home were masterfully done and had me glued to the pages. A powerful debut, and a must-read for fans of historical fiction' USA Today bestseller, Andie Newton

'Atmospheric and gripping' Jacquie Bloese, author of The French House

'...both a poignant love story, and a fascinating exploration of the experience of being an occupied nation during a time of war... An accomplished and gripping debut!' Louise Fein, author of People Like Us

'A heartbreaking tale of love, loss and overwhelming courage. I was captivated, and couldn't turn the pages fast enough' Siobhan Daiko, author of The Girl from Venice

'The compelling story of Laila - a woman of great hope and courage - who showed how love, loyalty and compassion can endure despite the evils of war' Catherine Law, author of The Officer's Wife

‘The story tore my heart out but I love the strength and determination in the most vulnerable characters … A gripping and exciting read’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘This book is powerful, thought provoking and is written in such a beautiful way … we just NEED a sequel as simple as that’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘A beautiful story of heroism, bravery, womanhood, motherhood, and love amidst the chaos of war. It’s such an addicting and beautifully written story. I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish this book!’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘A superbly written book … It is truly a sublime read that creates a picture of beauty, sadness, loss and the ability to overcome. I LOVED IT!’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

‘A marvellous historical debut that enthralled me … a fabulous debut’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review