Based on the full text of ninety—two letters written more than seventy—five years ago and only discovered in 2019, Dear Billie: A World War II Love Story tells the true story of a long—distance romance that began during the war and lasted a lifetime. Written by Roland "Vern" Ploughman, from Bay Roberts, Newfoundland, to his girl, Lillian "Billie" Wenman, from Toronto, Ontario, these letters follow a tank gunner's experience of training, combat, wounding, and return home. Spanning from January 1943 to August 1945, they begin with eighteen—year—old Vern writing to seventeen—year—old Billie, who a friend insists he must meet.
Karen Lundy was born in Toronto, Ontario, but adopted Newfoundland for her home in 1981, living first in Bay Roberts, her father's hometown, and then Clarke's Beach, where her two children were raised. She moved to St. John's in 1999 to attend Memorial University of Newfoundland, where she graduated with a B.A. in history. She continues to live in St. John's with her husband, Jim. When not writing, she enjoys the many walking and hiking trails Newfoundland offers.
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