Read whatever, whenever, however.
In brief: In 1954, four young girls meet in a migrant camp in Australia. Three have come from Europe. What follows in their lives in their new country. The good: Lovely to follow each of the girls throughout their lives. The not-so-good: Sometimes I would have liked more detail about some stages of their lives.... Continue Reading →
In brief: The second in the Steeple Street series. Agnes becomes the first nurse in the coal mining village of Bowden, but the locals don't want a nurse. The good: Really picked up as the strike hit and the drama increased. The not-so-good: First part wasn't terribly interesting, as Agnes doesn't show too much character.... Continue Reading →
In brief: Emmy applies for a job, thinking it's a gateway to becoming a War Correspondent. Unfortunately, she's typing letters for the agony aunt of Woman's Friend magazine. The good: It's sweet and fun with a jolly tone. The not-so-good: So terribly sad in places. Why I chose it: Sent to me by Pan Macmillan... Continue Reading →
In brief: Showgirl Ruby Wilde is at the top of her game in Las Vegas in the late 1960s. But it wasn't always that way growing up and her life is about to take another twist… The good: You feel like you really are on the Strip. The not-so-good: Some very painful moments for the... Continue Reading →
In brief: Maisie has been sent across the world to marry a man she has never met but life in Buccaneer Bay is nothing like she expected! The good: Very familiar with the settings of the story. The not-so-good: Start was a bit slow for me. Why I chose it: Sounded interesting – thanks Penguin... Continue Reading →
In brief: In the late 1960s, a small coastal Australian town plays a vital role in the moon landing. Telling this story is Lucky, a galah. The good: I loved having a bird narrator! The insights from the Dish about the townspeople were also fascinating. The not-so-good: I felt so bad when Lucky was caged.... Continue Reading →
In brief: In 1950s Hollywood, Louise Wilde inherits the estate of a screenwriter she barely knows. But on entering Florrie's apartment, she sees a picture of her mother. What is the link between them all? The good: Fascinating look at two golden eras – 1950s Hollywood and 1920s America. The not-so-good: Very, very sad at... Continue Reading →
In brief: In a small Australian country town, four women are struggling post World War I. What they need is a part-time husband! The good: Interesting premise. The not-so-good: I found it difficult to separate the female characters in my head. Why I chose it: Sounded interesting, thanks to Penguin Australia for the copy. Year:... Continue Reading →
In brief: Ton Knelston is a young man of humble background who could go far. Triumphing over tragedy, he's got what it takes to be a star politician but will an affair come to light? The good: It's Penny Vincenzi, so there is loads of glamour and detail. The not-so-good: I didn't really like Tom,... Continue Reading →
