The Weight of Goodbye

In this poignant tale of loss and redemption, a young woman's wartime secrets threaten to unravel her carefully rebuilt life.

1937. On the eve of her debutante season in London, Lucia Blake rebels against her domineering father and his fascist politics and runs away to France. Breaking the promise to always look after her, she leaves behind her adored younger sister, Della. Seeking freedom Lucia finds unexpected passion in the arms of a charming French archaeologist. But as war looms over Europe, their idyllic love is shattered by an unspeakable tragedy.

Returning to war-torn London, a heartbroken Lucia buries her past and throws herself into work as an ambulance driver. Every time she heads into the Blitz to rescue people she gambles with death. Yet it’s when she pulls a terrified young girl from the rubble— clutching a toy elephant—that suppressed memories surge to the surface. Bound by grief, Lucia and the child embark on a desperate search for the girl’s missing father, forming an unbreakable bond.

But the ghosts of Lucia’s past won’t stay silent. As the bombs fall and death claims those around her, she longs for Della to forgive her for the pain she caused when she fled those years ago. Will her sister ever be able to reconcile with Lucia? Or will the weight of goodbye prove too much to bear?

This heart-wrenching novel is a testament to the power of love, courage, and the human spirit’s resilience in the darkest of times. Perfect for fans of The Alice Network, Kelly Rimmer’s The Things We Cannot Say and We Were the Lucky Ones.

What readers are saying about books by Eliza Graham:

“My heart broke at this book. Beautiful and heartbreaking. It’s a book of sadness and hope. The depths a person will go to, to protect their loved ones. It’s very gripping and moving and one of my favourite reads of the year!” Reader review, ??????????

“Wow!!!! This book had me hooked from the very beginning. This will be one of my top-5 books this year! Highly, highly recommend” Reader review, ??????????

“A gorgeously written dual timeline WWII Historical Fiction novel, utterly engrossing with vivid descriptions and memorable characters… Prepare for your heart to hurt but the reward pays dividends. Immerse yourself and allow it to seep in.” Reader review, ??????????

“I've just read it in one sitting. I couldn't put it down it was so gripping.” Reader review, ??????????

“Haunting and heartbreaking… This book gripped me from chapter one… The story that unfolds will break your heart and have you weeping for Sophie.” Reader review, ??????????

“I don’t often begin a review with tear-filled eyes, but The Midwife’s Promise left me in a huge puddle. Gripped, devastated and heartbroken are just a few words I felt after completing this novel. But I must add, I also was full of hope and uplifted by the release of truth at the end... I highly recommend The Midwife’s Promise, but be prepared as this story will make you weep.” Reader review, ??????????