Planes, Flames and Growing Pains

About the Book

The Masters family opens their home to Brian, a refugee from London during the early months of World War II. Janet, closest in age, dislikes changes, and does not welcome this stranger in their home.

Brian, still coming to terms with the death of his mother and his father missing in action, begins to settle in his new home. He and Gwen, younger sister of Janet, enjoy spending time together, but Janet continues to be evasive and elusive. Brian sets out to break the hard shell surrounding her.

When a day light air raid occurs during school, Brian is traumatized and Janet finds comfort in comforting him. Brian feels that Janet is softening towards him, A quiet Sunday evening concert in the City erupts into earth shattering terror when a major bombing takes place. Janet, Brian and Gwen huddle together in fear and later emerge from the building to discover total devastation.

A difficult journey home ensues and the full horror of war impacts them all deeply. Cousins come to visit, bringing light hearted fun, until a telegram arrives with bad news.

During a winter walk, emotions between Brian and Janet explode. After sharing hidden hurts and secrets, they discover a new respect and growing affection for each other.

During the Christmas Season, Brian's joy knows no bounds when his father arrives. Janet receives the news with mixed emotions.

When the time arrives for Brian and his father to leave for a new beginning together, Janet reflects on how Brian's presence in her life has changed her. She anticipates future changes also, but has one question? Will she see Brian again?

About the Author

I was born in England during World War II. I loved to read, and story writing became a large part of my school years. Later, however, working, marriage and children became more important. I immigrated to Canada with my family in 1968 and became involved with fostering children. We also adopted two boys, bringing a total to our family of five children.

In the 1980's I participated in a Writer's course, and groped my way through my first book, Flames, Planes & Growing Pains. Since then I have written several short stories and have started a book on my experiences in Guatemala, where my husband and I spent one year.

My other hobbies include spending time with my children and grandchildren, reading, knitting, choral singing, walking, and attending Church and Bible Studies.

I feel blessed to live in Creston in beautiful British Columbia.