Touch the Silence — Gloria Cook

  Set during WWI, a “compelling and dramatic story about the crumbling British upper class launches what should prove to be a fascinating family saga” (Booklist).
 
1917. The First World War casts its shadow over the Harvey family of Ford Farm. One brother has already been killed, and Tristan now serves at the Front.

Though newly engaged to pretty Emilia Rowse -- a friend since childhood -- younger brother Ben is desperate to serve his country. But a horrific injury causes him to be declared unfit, and Emilia's life becomes ever more difficult. Tensions mount on the family farm. Everyone, it seems, has closely guarded secrets . . . Can Emilia find happiness?

Filled with a rich cast of unforgettable characters and packed with period detail, Touch the Silence is the brilliant first novel in the Harvey Family sagas.