The Chestnut Tree

Friendship, Love, and Courage in Wartime

The Chestnut Tree by Charlotte Bingham is a beautifully told historical saga set in the quiet seaside village of Bexham during the turbulent years of World War II. First published in 2002 by Bantam Books, this compelling novel explores the lives of a group of women who come together under extraordinary circumstances to find strength, friendship, and purpose.

Ordinary Women, Extraordinary Times

As war looms, the women of Bexham are determined not to sit idle. Led by the spirited and independent Virginia, they volunteer for service, take on new responsibilities, and find their lives forever changed. From heartbreak to hope, each woman’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and the unbreakable bonds formed during the darkest of times. As love blossoms and secrets surface, they learn that even in war, life continues — and so does the power of the human spirit.

A Heartwarming Wartime Saga

The Chestnut Tree is Charlotte Bingham at her finest — rich in period detail, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for fans of Rosamunde Pilcher, Anne Baker, and wartime dramas that celebrate the strength of women, this novel is a moving tribute to the quiet heroism found on the home front.