The Wives Left Behind
The Wives Left Behind is a standalone historical women’s fiction novel inspired by a real murder case in Cornwall in 1840. Set against the backdrop of public executions, social judgement, and rigid Victorian morality, the novel explores the lives of women forced to survive the consequences of crimes they did not commit.
Inspired by documented historical events and contemporary newspaper reports, the story follows the wives and families left behind after two men are accused, condemned, and executed — examining how guilt, shame, loyalty, and survival shape the women caught in the aftermath.
This novel is part of the Forgotten Women of History series — standalone historical novels inspired by real lives and events. They can be read independently and in any order.
New to LK Wilde? Start here.
If you’re new to LK Wilde’s historical fiction, The Wives Left Behind offers a powerful introduction to the Forgotten Women of History series, focusing on women whose lives were irrevocably changed by crime, punishment, and public judgement in nineteenth-century Britain.
Book Details
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When merchant Nevell Norway is murdered, suspicion soon falls on the Lightfoot brothers. The trial of the century begins, and two women's lives change forever.
Sarah Norway must fight for the future of her children. Battling against her inner demons, can Sarah unlock the strength she needs to move on without Nevell?
Maria Lightfoot's future looks bleak, but she's a fighter. Determined to re-build her life, an unexpected friendship offers a glimmer of hope...
With their lives in turmoil, can Sarah and Maria overcome the fate of their husbands? Or will they forever remain The Wives Left Behind?
Based on real events.
Historical Inspiration
The Wives Left Behind is inspired by the real murder of Nevell Norway in Cornwall in 1840, a crime widely reported in contemporary newspapers. The subsequent arrest, trial, and public execution of two men drew large crowds and left lasting consequences for the women and children connected to the case.
While many historical details are preserved, some characters and relationships have been fictionalised to explore the emotional reality faced by women living under Victorian law, where guilt by association could destroy lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Wives Left Behind based on a true story?
Yes. The novel is inspired by a real murder case in Cornwall in 1840, using documented historical records and newspaper reports as its foundation.
Are the characters real?
Some figures are drawn from historical records, while others have been fictionalised to explore the emotional and social impact of the events.
Is this book part of a series?
Yes. It is part of the Forgotten Women of History series. Each book is a standalone novel inspired by real lives and events.
Do I need to read other books first?
No. This book can be read independently and in any order.
Book Club & Discussion Questions
These questions are designed to encourage discussion about historical justice, morality, and the experiences of women whose lives were shaped by crime and punishment.
- How does the novel portray the impact of crime and punishment on women who were not directly involved?
- In what ways does public judgement shape the women’s choices and identities?
- Which character did you feel most sympathy for, and why?
- How does the novel explore the concept of guilt by association?
- What does the book suggest about justice in Victorian England?
- Did the ending feel true to the historical context? Why or why not?
More from the Forgotten Women of History Series
Each novel in the Forgotten Women of History series is a complete standalone story inspired by real women and real events.