Need to identify this book by the plot alone

[springbabydays]

Read about 20 + years ago.

Set in South Kensington during the war, when it was the arty area of London. A bomb fell on the house where the artists' studio was in the attic. It was a really atmospheric book.

I actually visited the street where it was set and there was indeed a newer building on the site of where that lovely old house would have been before the war. Quite chilling actually, and I'm so annoyed I can't even remember the name of the street!

Thanks in advance.

I had forgotten it was a diary. And looks like it was Chelsea rather than South Ken. Oh well, got there in the end!

For anyone that is intrested:

"Love Lessons: A Wartime Diary" is a book that compiles the wartime diaries of Joan Wyndham. Joan Wyndham was an English writer who lived during World War II, and her diaries provide a firsthand account of her experiences and relationships during that tumultuous period.

The diary covers the years 1941 to 1945 and reflects Wyndham's personal journey through the challenges and uncertainties of wartime London. It offers insights into the impact of the war on daily life, relationships, and societal norms. The title, "Love Lessons," suggests a focus on romantic relationships and the lessons learned during this time.

Joan Wyndham's diaries are known for their candid and engaging style, providing readers with a vivid picture of life during the war and the emotions and experiences of a young woman navigating through those turbulent times. The book has been praised for its authenticity and the unique perspective it offers on the human side of history.

It's the first book of a trilogy. I randomly found them in a charity shop years ago and have re-read them over and over again. Highly recommend!

That sounds really good. It's on my list. Thanks junibug!

Had no idea there are sequels! Thank you @Junibug

"Love Lessons: A Wartime Diary" is part of a trilogy, and the subsequent volumes continue Joan Wyndham's reflections and experiences. The trilogy includes:

"Love Lessons: A Wartime Diary" (1985): This is the first volume that covers the years 1941 to 1945.

"Love is Blue: A Wartime Diary" (1986): This is the second volume and continues the narrative, exploring Wyndham's life and relationships during the post-war period.

"Love Triumphant: A Wartime Diary" (1988): This is the third and final volume of the trilogy. It concludes Joan Wyndham's wartime diaries, offering insights into her life as the war comes to an end and the world begins to rebuild.

These diaries collectively provide a comprehensive and personal account of Joan Wyndham's experiences during and after World War II, making them valuable historical and literary documents.