A Rare Ruby

by Dee Williams

When Ruby's father returns, shell-shocked, from the front lines of the Great War, the young girl realises that things will never be the same again. Forced to leave school and help her mother wash clothes, Ruby closes the door on her childhood. When she takes a job at the local laundry, Ruby enjoys the friendship of the other women there, but there's also bitchiness and jealousy amongst the workers. At home there's growing tension with the live-in landlord as Ruby grows into an attractive woman, but not the kind who's willing to use her charms to win favours. Ruby's heart belongs to one man only, a local boy she's known all her life, but there are many battles to be fought before they start a life together...

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction

Paperback

First published April 1, 2002

About the author

Dee Williams grew up in Rotherhithe, East London, and left school at fourteen. After living abroad, she settled in Hampshire with her husband, where she remains active as a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness while staying close to her family.

Reviews

[Chery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruby a real gem. Loved the story.... I wish there was more.

[Mrs. Christine Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

I enjoyed this book very much, another good one by Dee Williams. I couldn't wait to read it, it was such a good read. Never knowing what was coming next. I am looking for another book from this author.and I have read four so far. I would recommend this book.

[A Red Headed Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good. But very long for what it is. A lot happens but not, if you get what I mean. I would defo say give it a go but don't get your hopes up much :)

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written family saga with good development of characters and plenty of “situations”. There were a couple of times when things didn’t quite add up but it was entertaining all the same.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Very enjoyable
Sweet characters and great storyline

[Mrs Margaret Maher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a another good book

I have really enjoyed reading it. The great poverty some people had to live with. It really was terrible for them.

[Pauline vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

such good story

I love Dee Williams and a rare ruby was another of her greatest novels.

Such lovely characters which you feel you know.

[Cookie1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was lent to me by a friend while I was on holidays. It is basically the story of Ruby and her life after the First World War. Her father returns from the war 'shell shocked' and can no longer work to support the family. Her mother has to take in washing to try and make do. It is quite frightening how little the family have to live on. The man who owns their rental lives above them and his quite a nasty type.
Ruby eventually has to go and work in a laundry to help the family finances. This type of story makes you realise just how fortunate we are. It is an enjoyable read.

[Jeanette · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is also a great book love this author will be re-reading this book again!

[julie hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rare ruby

Very enjoyable, going through the young life of a girl who has to grow up quickly and took after her father and brother

[Mrs Annette Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read

Dee Williams story of Ruby's trials and loyalty to her family and friends in 1920s Rotherhide is an enjoyable read.