Well I've had time to calm my shaking nerves after turning the last page on this one today. So I now feel ready to get my review done.I have not connected with a story like this since The Bronze Horseman. And for that to happen is MASSIVE. I am so engrossed in the town of Pontypridd, I can't think of anything else but the fate of all the people in it.Such Sweet Sorrow is part of the Hearts of Gold series by Catrin Collier, which focuses on the town of Pontypridd and many of its residents, before, during and after the second world war.In this installment we say goodbye to many of the men as they go to fight for their country. The women are left feeling hopeless and wondering if they will ever see the men they love come home again. Love is lost between Diana and Tony after Diana admits her deepest secret to him after they make love for the first time. She seeks comfort and consolation in her best friend Wyn. After Tony has left for the war, and the unexpected happens to Diana, Wyn offers her marriage on the basis of their friendship to give her an optimistic future where she will be well looked after and safe. Tina and Gina Ronconi are left to running their family's cafes after their father is arrested along with many other Italian residents after Italy's Mussolini joins Hitler's army. Tina is already under enough stress as she hangs onto every last letter William, her fiance, sends. All she prays for is his safe and speedy return so they can finally get married.Megan Powell, Diana and William's mother, is unexpectedly released from her prison sentence early. The Powell's couldn't be more happier to have their Megan back, and she is lucky enough to be released in time to farewell her son before he leaves with the army. Gina Ronconi finds her first love in Luke, a new lodger of the Powell's. Jenny desperately tries to make amends with her husband, Eddie. When he gets special leave and they finally see eachother for the first time since their marriage, bridges and hearts are mended. In 'All That Glitters' I was furious with Jenny and was appaulled at what she did to Eddie on their wedding day. Though this time I was feeling sorry for her. I truly felt she was remorseful and extremely ashamed of herself, and was so glad that Eddie found it in his heart to give her another chance. Eddie is finally optimistic for their future together once the war is over.Bethan and Laura both await the return of their doctor husbands, Trevor and Andrew. Both women have young babies and are helping with the runnings of the Ronconi cafes.What women will see their beloved men return, and who will suffer?God, I was literally holding my chest in the last chapter. I know it sounds like a lot of characters to take in, but I am seriously so in touch with every single one of them. I felt worried for all of them and cared about their fates. I am so scared of reading the next book, as it can only bring more heart ache. Especially for Jenny. That is all I will say, I don't want to give to much away :)Another fabulous read from Catrin Collier. Highly recommended, and 5 well deserved stars.
