The Song of the Lotus Flower

An epic tale of courage, love and heroism inspired by the true stories of women working as journalists during the Vietnam War.1967. Jude Murphy has never taken no for an answer. When the Associated Press refuses to send her to cover Vietnam, she books her own flight to Saigon – typewriter in her luggage, borrowed camera over her shoulder, and every intention of reporting the truth of a war her country would rather sanitise.But on arrival, she clashes with the stubborn military officer who blocks women from frontline reporting. Determined to break through every barrier, Jude fights the authorities for her right to report. Then, while waiting to join a platoon, she meets a young American soldier whose warmth and idealism starkly contrast her growing cynicism about the war, opening her eyes – and her heart – in ways she never expected.When she’s captured behind enemy lines, Jude faces an impossible choice between protecting the people who saved her and exposing the devastating truths her reporting has uncovered.A moving and utterly breathtaking story of loss, love and the determination of women to fight for freedom in a time of war, this unforgettable story will captivate readers of The Rose Code, The Nightingale and The Tattooist of Auschwitz.Perfect for anyone who loves:- Dual-timeline historical fiction- Strong, independent women defying the odds- Vietnam War setting with rich period atmosphere- Forbidden love in a warzone- Stories inspired by real women in history- War fiction with emotional depth and moral complexityReaders are captivated by Lelita Baldock’s historical novels:‘WOW. It’s been so long since I’ve loved every character in a story… This beautifully tragic novel absolutely broke my heart… a must read.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Wow! I am speechless.... What an amazing read! Truly one of the best this year.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I rarely give 5 stars but this one absolutely deserves it! Beautifully written… just the right amount of romance, family tension, and an amazing plot twist (never saw that coming). I would highly recommend this book to anyone.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Once I started reading this, I couldn’t put it down… a story of the choices people make in war and after to protect their families… this is a book that will move you and stay with you.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Heartbreaking… a profoundly moving book… I highly recommend it.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Told with so much passion, so much insight into human nature… I encourage you to pick up this book.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐