What The Ocean Keeps: A compelling World War I love story inspired by true events

‘A compelling, beautifully written and almost unbearably poignant love story that shines a light on the forgotten aftermath of war.’ Frances Quinn, best-selling author of The Lost Passenger

The war’s over but for Alma and Jack the fight for love and freedom has only just begun.

North Wales, 1918

Alma thought the end of the war would bring freedom. Instead, the independence she found as a munitions worker is slipping away. Trapped in a painful arrangement with Bron, the man who saved her family from destitution, she longs for a life, and a love, of her own.

Canadian soldier Jack survived the trenches. Now, thousands of miles from home, he is stranded in an overcrowded British repatriation camp.

When Alma and Jack meet in the shanty town which serves the camp, they fall passionately in love, and their romance becomes the one chance of escape.

But this love is forbidden.

Bron wants Alma for himself. Ships across the Atlantic are delayed time and again, Spanish ‘flu spreads and the men – their sacrifice and bravery in the trenches ignored – are rebellious.

Alma and Jack must fight for a love that could cost them everything.

Inspired by true events, What The Ocean Keeps is a passionate and poignant story of forbidden love, sacrifice and freedom in the aftermath of the First World War.

Perfect for readers who love: A passionate, forbidden love A strong, independent heroine fighting for her freedom A soldier desperate to find his way home Female friendship, male loyalty and unforgettable characters Fascinating true stories from the aftermath of war Readers adore What The Ocean Keeps

‘an extraordinarily powerful read … storytelling at its very best’
Jill’s Book Café Blog ★★★★★

‘I loved it. Couldn't put it down ’
Reader review ★★★★★

‘A story of love , freedom, sacrifice and hope in the uncertain aftermath of war… so moving. Historical fiction at its most absorbing’ Reader review ★★★★★

‘ Beautifully layered , with a strong storyline and unforgettable characters ’ Reader review ★★★★★

‘A wonderful, immersive read’ Reader review ★★★★★
‘ Fans of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale will not want to miss What The Ocean Keeps ’ Reader review ★★★★

‘a captivating tale of forbidden love , impossible sacrifices and the ties that bind’ Reader review ★★★★

‘a fascinating glimpse into a less well-known aspect of post-war society, combined with a touching romance in this compelling and satisfying novel. ’ Reader review ★★★★

‘A compelling, beautifully written and almost unbearably poignant love story that shines a light on the forgotten aftermath of war. Tender, lyrical and heartbreaking, with characters I’ll remember for a long time.’ Frances Quinn, bestselling author of The Lost Passenger

‘ What The Ocean Keeps is both a love story carved from the wreckage of war and a forgotten chapter of history that deserves to be remembered. Beautifully rendered, tender, fierce; a story that will stay with you long after the final page.’
Jules Hayes, bestselling author of The Walls We Build

‘You get quickly swept up in Laura's storytelling, immersed in rich detail and comprehensive research which brings this lesser-known time post WW1 to light. Stunning.’ Lisa Brace, award-winning author of Swim

‘A heart-stopping love story… an absolutely brilliant read.’ Beth Miller, bestselling author of The Missing Letters of Mrs Bright

Perfect for fans of The Poppy Sisters , When the World Fell Silent and Lost Roses .