She fled to survive. She lied to belong. The truth could shatter everything.
1939. Norma knows what the world does to women in her position. Pregnant, unmarried... abandoned. And when the man who promised to marry her is arrested for murder, she has only one option left: run.
A borrowed wedding ring. A fake name. A one-way ticket to Wales. Mrs Finch never existed before that train journey, but now she's Norma's only chance at survival.
The remote valley of Pontybrenin should be her hiding place. Instead, even as the world teeters on the brink of war, it becomes the first place Norma's ever felt seen. Billeted with a stern church minister and his family, she finds friendship, family and a love that makes her want to stop running.
But every day she stays is another day someone might discover who she really is. And as she falls deeper into this life - and this love - Norma will have to choose between the truth that could destroy her and the lies that are slowly suffocating the person she's becoming.
A deeply poignant tale of resilience, found family and second chances - heartwarming, captivating and impossible to forget. Perfect for fans of When the World Fell Silent and Anna Stuart.
About the Author :
Luisa A Jones lives in South Wales, and takes inspiration from the Welsh countryside, towns, history, and of course its people. Her writing explores the dynamics within relationships, the pressures that mental health issues can exert on people, and how these can be overcome. Luisa studied Classical Studies at Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, University of London. Her previous jobs have included tour guide in an historic house; teacher in both primary and secondary schools; careers adviser; and corporate trainer/assessor. Luisa loves using her creativity for crafting and baking, as well as writing historical and contemporary fiction with romantic elements. She and her husband are the proud owners of Gwynnie, a Volkswagen camper van built in 1974, which inspired the story behind Luisa's first book, _Goes Without Saying_. They have three children, a dog, and two cats. Becoming an author fulfilled a lifelong ambition.
Review :
'This book completely blew me away... The characters are what truly make this book shine... An unforgettable read that stayed with me long after I finished.' Reader review, 5 stars
'It grabbed onto my heart and never let go... The novel is perfectly executed... I wanted to read more!... I highly recommend Before the Mountain Falls... A must-read for '26 Historical fiction lovers.' Reader review, 5 stars
'Luisa A Jones has done it again! Nobody captures the dislocating evacuee experience better...This book is perfect for anyone who loves WW2 historical novels with strong female characters and a good side-helping of romance. I absolutely loved it!' Reader review, 5 stars
'Oh wow, this was incredible... it's my favourite kind of book. just wow... this has gone right to the top of my list... this book was incredible, wonderful and all the other good ways and words I could hand out to the excellence of it.' Reader review, 5 stars
'I couldn't put it down... Before the Mountain Falls is as much a love story to Wales as to certain characters in the story. I loved it. More, please. Five stars.' Reader review, 5 stars
'WOW! What a fabulous read! I wish there could be a follow-up... Please consider it as I need to know more about what happened. Absolutely brilliant!' Reader review, 5 stars
'I loved this warm-hearted, deeply moving wartime story set in Wales... Luisa Jones is a superb storyteller, and the pages flew by. A novel full of heart.' Reader review, 5 stars
'Gosh, what a treat!... It's full of drama and tension, but it's also full of love in its many forms... If you love WW2 sagas with romance at its heart, you'll adore this book.' Reader review, 5 stars
