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The Queens of London
"Looting, lying, and the letter of the Queens of London delivers a rollicking ride through the criminal underbelly of post-WWI London. Gritty at times and tender at others, Queens of London unmasks the most lawless—and likeable—gang of women you've never heard of."
--Sarah Penner, New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Apothecary
Maybe women can have it all, as long as they're willing to steal it.
1925. London. When Alice Diamond, AKA "Diamond Annie," is elected the Queen of the Forty Elephants, she's determined to take the all-girl gang to new heights. She's ambitious, tough as nails, and a brilliant mastermind, with a plan to create a dynasty the likes of which no one has ever seen. Alice demands absolute loyalty from her "family"—it's how she's always kept the cops in line. Too bad she's now the target for one of Britain's first female policewomen.
Officer Lilian Wyles isn't merely one of the first female detectives at Scotland Yard, she's one of the best detectives on the force. Even so, she'll have to win a big score to prove herself, to break free from the "women's work" she's been assigned. When she hears about the large-scale heist in the works to fund Alice's new dynasty, she realizes she has the chance she's been looking for—and the added bonus of putting Diamond Annie out of business permanently.
A tale of dark glamour and sisterhood, Queens of London is a look at Britain's first female crime syndicate, the ever-shifting meaning of justice, and the way women claim their power by any means necessary, from USA Today bestselling author Heather Webb.
--Sarah Penner, New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Apothecary
Maybe women can have it all, as long as they're willing to steal it.
1925. London. When Alice Diamond, AKA "Diamond Annie," is elected the Queen of the Forty Elephants, she's determined to take the all-girl gang to new heights. She's ambitious, tough as nails, and a brilliant mastermind, with a plan to create a dynasty the likes of which no one has ever seen. Alice demands absolute loyalty from her "family"—it's how she's always kept the cops in line. Too bad she's now the target for one of Britain's first female policewomen.
Officer Lilian Wyles isn't merely one of the first female detectives at Scotland Yard, she's one of the best detectives on the force. Even so, she'll have to win a big score to prove herself, to break free from the "women's work" she's been assigned. When she hears about the large-scale heist in the works to fund Alice's new dynasty, she realizes she has the chance she's been looking for—and the added bonus of putting Diamond Annie out of business permanently.
A tale of dark glamour and sisterhood, Queens of London is a look at Britain's first female crime syndicate, the ever-shifting meaning of justice, and the way women claim their power by any means necessary, from USA Today bestselling author Heather Webb.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2024
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Heather Webb
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There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 451 reviews
December 15, 2023
ᴍᴀʏʙᴇ ᴡᴏᴍᴇɴ ᴄᴀɴ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ɪᴛ ᴀʟʟ, ᴀꜱ ʟᴏɴɢ ᴀꜱ ᴛʜᴇʏ’ʀᴇ ᴡɪʟʟɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ ɪᴛ.
This book will stand tall beside some of my top reads of the year!
🛒𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙚𝙩: a completely absorbing and utterly fascinating story of sisterhood set in London’s underworld and featuring Britain’s first female crime syndicate.
By nature, I’m such a rule follower. I crave organization. However, I love the opposite in my book friends. These Queens of London break rules and are less than perfect, yet they pulled at my heartstrings and allowed me to see the other side of justice and loyalty.
Four wonderfully crafted characters (who came alive on the pages ) held my interest:
✔️𝐇𝐢𝐫𝐚 𝐖𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐦
my favourite
10-year-old innocent and desperate orphan on the run
has a cute sidekick, a dog named Biscuit
✔️𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐌𝐜𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞
a clever, generous, and underestimated clerk at Marshall & Snelgrove Department Store
✔️𝐋𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐲𝐥𝐞𝐬
ambitious female policeman with a bunch of ‘firsts’ to her name, a lot to prove, and a soft heart which she keeps well hidden
✔️𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 ‘𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐞’ 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝
focused and determined queen of The Forty Elephants, a female shoplifting gang, who becomes the target of Britain’s first female policewoman
It’s not just about the antics of The Forty Elephants, it’s about what happens when we lose control, what we do when we have nobody to trust, how we feel when we are forced to do what we have to in order to survive, how the thrill of not being caught can be contagious, and about the drive women have to claim power by any means necessary.
I absolutely loved this story about tough girls from humble beginnings who learned to take the law into their own hands and make things go their way. The principle of 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 was an important thread that sparkled throughout the narrative. Hira, Dorothy and Alice hadn’t seen much of it in their own lives, so they learn to create justice. I was rooting for these four characters as they sought out justice for themselves. When Alice refers to the twisted and symbiotic relationship between criminals and the police, it gave me pause and I was watching for it as I read. When Alice and Lilian test this bond one dark night in an alley, I was anxious to see what would follow. Webb gives readers plenty to think about.
“Sometimes a woman looks out for her own. Even if they’re not from the same … school of thought.”
I also appreciated the thread of 𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙮 that ran parallel to justice. Diamond Annie demanded loyalty. In fact, the success of her endeavours demanded it. Her motto was “family first, above all else.” Hira, Dorothy and Lilian grapple with their loyalty and I loved seeing the growth that resulted.
Make sure this winner is on your TBR list in the new year!
I was gifted this copy by Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This book will stand tall beside some of my top reads of the year!
🛒𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙚𝙩: a completely absorbing and utterly fascinating story of sisterhood set in London’s underworld and featuring Britain’s first female crime syndicate.
By nature, I’m such a rule follower. I crave organization. However, I love the opposite in my book friends. These Queens of London break rules and are less than perfect, yet they pulled at my heartstrings and allowed me to see the other side of justice and loyalty.
Four wonderfully crafted characters (who came alive on the pages ) held my interest:
✔️𝐇𝐢𝐫𝐚 𝐖𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐦
my favourite
10-year-old innocent and desperate orphan on the run
has a cute sidekick, a dog named Biscuit
✔️𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐌𝐜𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞
a clever, generous, and underestimated clerk at Marshall & Snelgrove Department Store
✔️𝐋𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐲𝐥𝐞𝐬
ambitious female policeman with a bunch of ‘firsts’ to her name, a lot to prove, and a soft heart which she keeps well hidden
✔️𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 ‘𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐞’ 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝
focused and determined queen of The Forty Elephants, a female shoplifting gang, who becomes the target of Britain’s first female policewoman
It’s not just about the antics of The Forty Elephants, it’s about what happens when we lose control, what we do when we have nobody to trust, how we feel when we are forced to do what we have to in order to survive, how the thrill of not being caught can be contagious, and about the drive women have to claim power by any means necessary.
I absolutely loved this story about tough girls from humble beginnings who learned to take the law into their own hands and make things go their way. The principle of 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 was an important thread that sparkled throughout the narrative. Hira, Dorothy and Alice hadn’t seen much of it in their own lives, so they learn to create justice. I was rooting for these four characters as they sought out justice for themselves. When Alice refers to the twisted and symbiotic relationship between criminals and the police, it gave me pause and I was watching for it as I read. When Alice and Lilian test this bond one dark night in an alley, I was anxious to see what would follow. Webb gives readers plenty to think about.
“Sometimes a woman looks out for her own. Even if they’re not from the same … school of thought.”
I also appreciated the thread of 𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙮 that ran parallel to justice. Diamond Annie demanded loyalty. In fact, the success of her endeavours demanded it. Her motto was “family first, above all else.” Hira, Dorothy and Lilian grapple with their loyalty and I loved seeing the growth that resulted.
Make sure this winner is on your TBR list in the new year!
I was gifted this copy by Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 25, 2024
Queens of London follows four female characters during post WWI, 1920’s London, as their lives become intertwined.
Alice Diamond, AKA “Diamond Annie”, Queen of the Forty Elephants, Britain’s first female crime syndicate who specialized in shoplifting, and planning the heist of a lifetime.
Hira Wickham ♥️ - a 10 year old runaway living on the streets with her adorable dog, Biscuit, and the star of the book IMO.
Lilian Wiles - one of the first female detectives at Scotland Yard. She is out to prove herself as a capable detective.
Dorothy McBride - a very kind but naive department store clerk.
I love when characters are flawed and you are able to see the good and bad in them, but that also makes it difficult choosing sides especially when characters have opposing objectives.
I requested this book based on the lovely cover and ended up with a very entertaining story as well. I couldn’t wait to get back to the story every chance I got. When reading historical fiction, I prefer knowing which parts and characters are real. In this case, the author’s note at the end clarified fact vs fiction which I greatly appreciated.
I listened to the audiobook. Amy Scanlon did an excellent job with the narration overall, but with so many extra characters to voice, a few of the male voices felt overdone which I found a bit distracting initially.
This was my first Heather Webb novel but will definitely not be my last. She is clearly a great storyteller and I look forward to checking out her backlog of books. 4 stars.
Thank you Recorded Books and NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Alice Diamond, AKA “Diamond Annie”, Queen of the Forty Elephants, Britain’s first female crime syndicate who specialized in shoplifting, and planning the heist of a lifetime.
Hira Wickham ♥️ - a 10 year old runaway living on the streets with her adorable dog, Biscuit, and the star of the book IMO.
Lilian Wiles - one of the first female detectives at Scotland Yard. She is out to prove herself as a capable detective.
Dorothy McBride - a very kind but naive department store clerk.
I love when characters are flawed and you are able to see the good and bad in them, but that also makes it difficult choosing sides especially when characters have opposing objectives.
I requested this book based on the lovely cover and ended up with a very entertaining story as well. I couldn’t wait to get back to the story every chance I got. When reading historical fiction, I prefer knowing which parts and characters are real. In this case, the author’s note at the end clarified fact vs fiction which I greatly appreciated.
I listened to the audiobook. Amy Scanlon did an excellent job with the narration overall, but with so many extra characters to voice, a few of the male voices felt overdone which I found a bit distracting initially.
This was my first Heather Webb novel but will definitely not be my last. She is clearly a great storyteller and I look forward to checking out her backlog of books. 4 stars.
Thank you Recorded Books and NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 19, 2024
Alice Diamond is in charge of a crime gang that goes back to Victorian times, named after the area they frequented in the Southeast of London, near the famous Elephant and Castle Pub and the ladies are called the Forty Elephants and Alice is their Queen bee. Alice is the eldest of eight children and she was dragged up, she's ambitious, strong and knows how to defend herself. Alice’s gang hit department stores in the West End, they steal jewellery, clothes, silk and furs.
Officer Lilian Wyles is the first female detective at Scotland Yard, despite being in the force for over seven years and she’s assigned mainly women’s work. Then, her boss decides Lilian needs to start patrolling the department stores, to try and catch Alice and her band of thieves and be on the lookout for orphan children.
Two strong and determined women in their own way want to rule the streets of London. Included in the story are two other characters, Dorothy McBride, she works at Marshall & Snelgrove department store as a sales assistant and Hira Wickham a teenage girl, who runs away from her uncle, she's living on the streets and knows both Alice and Dorothy.
As you would expect the narrative is fast paced, a bit like both Alice and Lilian, as a police woman Lilian wears a uniform, but Alice wears diamond rings on all of her fingers, she’s well dressed and so are her girls.
I received a digital copy of Queens of London by Heather Webb from Sourcebooks and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an honest review. Set in London during the 1920’s, it’s a story about the underworld, full of real and fictional characters you won’t forget, it will have you sitting on the edge of your seat and wondering how far Alice and her gang will go?
We have all heard of the saying " it fell off the back of a truck”, goods obtained through illegal or dubious means and this sums up what Alice and her gang did and their lifestyle and five stars from me.
Officer Lilian Wyles is the first female detective at Scotland Yard, despite being in the force for over seven years and she’s assigned mainly women’s work. Then, her boss decides Lilian needs to start patrolling the department stores, to try and catch Alice and her band of thieves and be on the lookout for orphan children.
Two strong and determined women in their own way want to rule the streets of London. Included in the story are two other characters, Dorothy McBride, she works at Marshall & Snelgrove department store as a sales assistant and Hira Wickham a teenage girl, who runs away from her uncle, she's living on the streets and knows both Alice and Dorothy.
As you would expect the narrative is fast paced, a bit like both Alice and Lilian, as a police woman Lilian wears a uniform, but Alice wears diamond rings on all of her fingers, she’s well dressed and so are her girls.
I received a digital copy of Queens of London by Heather Webb from Sourcebooks and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an honest review. Set in London during the 1920’s, it’s a story about the underworld, full of real and fictional characters you won’t forget, it will have you sitting on the edge of your seat and wondering how far Alice and her gang will go?
We have all heard of the saying " it fell off the back of a truck”, goods obtained through illegal or dubious means and this sums up what Alice and her gang did and their lifestyle and five stars from me.
October 19, 2024
This story, although historical fiction, is based on actual people in post-World War I London. In this way, the author provides an interesting and imaginative perspective on the lives of these individuals, and the people they may have touched through their actions and life in general. For further information on the people, be sure and read the author’s note at the end for more details.
This novel also brings to life criminal and police circles in that era and the unwitting people caught in the middle. And, it is focused on the women who rise in those positions.
One of our main characters is Diamond Annie who is tall and tough, and head of a women’s gang called the Forty Elephants. She rules over her girls and allows them to share in the benefits of their heists. Thus, all gaining a lifestyle far above what would be expected in the London slums. But there is also Inspector Lilian Wyles, our other main character, who is based on one of the first policewomen in English history. Lilian is intelligent, courageous and intent on proving herself to her male bosses and counterparts. And, bringing Diamond Annie in would score her important points.
This story brings the Roaring Twenties in London to life, as well as show the solidarity among women. It also explores the deeper issues of social justice.
This is a fierce feminist tale. Which makes this a worthwhile read for those interested in this “historical fiction” view of history.
This novel also brings to life criminal and police circles in that era and the unwitting people caught in the middle. And, it is focused on the women who rise in those positions.
One of our main characters is Diamond Annie who is tall and tough, and head of a women’s gang called the Forty Elephants. She rules over her girls and allows them to share in the benefits of their heists. Thus, all gaining a lifestyle far above what would be expected in the London slums. But there is also Inspector Lilian Wyles, our other main character, who is based on one of the first policewomen in English history. Lilian is intelligent, courageous and intent on proving herself to her male bosses and counterparts. And, bringing Diamond Annie in would score her important points.
This story brings the Roaring Twenties in London to life, as well as show the solidarity among women. It also explores the deeper issues of social justice.
This is a fierce feminist tale. Which makes this a worthwhile read for those interested in this “historical fiction” view of history.
February 15, 2024
Do you tend to remember synopses when you are reading a book? I totally forget them, which was extra fun in this case because Queens of London was quite the surprise. It’s not focused on the royal family, but instead on Diamond Annie, the queen of The Forty Elephants, a group of women responsible for organized crime sprees in 1920s London. What a story.
The story is also about Officer Lilian Wyles, one of the first female detectives at Scotland Yard. It’s also the story of Hira, a child who lives on the streets. Dorothy is also a main character who plays an important role in the story.
Queens of London felt so completely different from Webb’s Strangers in the Night, one of my 2023 favorites, and I loved it for being different and for all that it is. It’s an incredible story of sisterhood, the power of women, with beautiful, easy-to-read, impeccable storytelling. I was living on the bustling streets of London alongside these characters, and I could not get enough of their stories. If you are looking for your next fresh hist fic read, look no further. All the stars.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
The story is also about Officer Lilian Wyles, one of the first female detectives at Scotland Yard. It’s also the story of Hira, a child who lives on the streets. Dorothy is also a main character who plays an important role in the story.
Queens of London felt so completely different from Webb’s Strangers in the Night, one of my 2023 favorites, and I loved it for being different and for all that it is. It’s an incredible story of sisterhood, the power of women, with beautiful, easy-to-read, impeccable storytelling. I was living on the bustling streets of London alongside these characters, and I could not get enough of their stories. If you are looking for your next fresh hist fic read, look no further. All the stars.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
February 14, 2024
Queens of London by Heather Webb was a captivating historical fiction novel that took place in London during the 1920’s. It was inspired by real events and real people. Queens of London was about the notorious all women’s gang known as the Forty Elephants who earned their living by stealing. At its helm was no other than Diamond Annie. Annie Diamond demanded respect, loyalty and trustworthiness. She would protect and defend her members if they were in danger but if any of them dared to cross her or proved unworthy of her trust, Annie would not hesitate for a second to take matters into her own hands and teach the member a lesson or worse. The Forty Elephants were notorious for their heists and professionally orchestrated shoplifting escapades they accomplished. Diamond Annie and her gang members had evaded the police and capture as a result of their careful preparations and elusiveness.
The British police department in the 1920’s was completely dominated by male officers with very few exceptions. Lillian Wyles was one of those exceptions. She was one of the first women to grace the police force of the United Kingdom. Lillian Wyles was trying very hard to forge her way in a male dominated agency. Her male counterparts were not willing to give her the opportunities she so desperately sought. Lillian Wyles knew if she could devise a way to capture and arrest Diamond Annie, she could earn the recognition she deserved. For right now, though, she was splitting her time between guarding a well known department store and capturing street orphans.
Hiro Wickham was born to an Indian mother and British father. She was sent to live with her uncle in London when her parents thought it unsafe for her to be in India with them. Her uncle made sure she was well educated and that her manners were impeccable. He showed her no love though and barely tolerated Hiro’s existence in his home. When it was revealed that Hiro’s parents had died, her uncle wasted no time in making it known that he would send Hiro to a boarding school for orphans. Hiro made up her mind right then and there that she would run away. Where would she go? She had no money and had no acquaintances to help her. Hiro found herself on the streets of London. She was lonely, scared and hungry. Her loneliness was remedied when a stray dog befriended Hiro. She named her new friend Biscuit. Hiro and Biscuit looked out for each other and became inseparable.
Diamond Annie discovered Hiro one night. She offered Hiro a place to stay and food to eat. Diamond Annie had watched Hiro in the act of pickpocketing and was surprised and impressed by her ability to get what she wanted. Hiro soon learned that Diamond Annie and her friends did some bad things but she needed a warm place to sleep and food to survive so she decided to ignore some of the things. At the same time, Hiro was also befriended by a woman salesperson at an upscale department store. Hiro made weekly visits to the woman who shared her food with Hiro. The woman developed a soft spot for Hiro and looked forward to her weekly visits. What would happen to Hiro? How did Lillian Wyles plan on capturing Diamond Annie? Would she get the recognition she so desperately wanted?
I listened to the audiobook of Queens of London by Heather Webb. The audiobook was brilliantly narrated by Amy Scanlon. Before listening to this audiobook, I had no prior knowledge of the Forty Elephants and Diamond Annie. The fact that there was such an elusive gang of women that operated around London during that time period was fascinating to me. I thought the characters were well written and thought out. Hiro found a spot in my heart from the beginning. I enjoyed her relationships with her little dog, Annie and the department store saleswoman. Her uncle was despicable and was my least liked character. Heather Webb included an author’s note at the end of the audiobook that explained which characters were real and what really happened to the members of the Forty Elephants and the other characters in Queens of London. I thought this book was very well written and enjoyable. I recommend it highly.
Thank you to Recorded Books for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of Queens of London by Heather Webb through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The British police department in the 1920’s was completely dominated by male officers with very few exceptions. Lillian Wyles was one of those exceptions. She was one of the first women to grace the police force of the United Kingdom. Lillian Wyles was trying very hard to forge her way in a male dominated agency. Her male counterparts were not willing to give her the opportunities she so desperately sought. Lillian Wyles knew if she could devise a way to capture and arrest Diamond Annie, she could earn the recognition she deserved. For right now, though, she was splitting her time between guarding a well known department store and capturing street orphans.
Hiro Wickham was born to an Indian mother and British father. She was sent to live with her uncle in London when her parents thought it unsafe for her to be in India with them. Her uncle made sure she was well educated and that her manners were impeccable. He showed her no love though and barely tolerated Hiro’s existence in his home. When it was revealed that Hiro’s parents had died, her uncle wasted no time in making it known that he would send Hiro to a boarding school for orphans. Hiro made up her mind right then and there that she would run away. Where would she go? She had no money and had no acquaintances to help her. Hiro found herself on the streets of London. She was lonely, scared and hungry. Her loneliness was remedied when a stray dog befriended Hiro. She named her new friend Biscuit. Hiro and Biscuit looked out for each other and became inseparable.
Diamond Annie discovered Hiro one night. She offered Hiro a place to stay and food to eat. Diamond Annie had watched Hiro in the act of pickpocketing and was surprised and impressed by her ability to get what she wanted. Hiro soon learned that Diamond Annie and her friends did some bad things but she needed a warm place to sleep and food to survive so she decided to ignore some of the things. At the same time, Hiro was also befriended by a woman salesperson at an upscale department store. Hiro made weekly visits to the woman who shared her food with Hiro. The woman developed a soft spot for Hiro and looked forward to her weekly visits. What would happen to Hiro? How did Lillian Wyles plan on capturing Diamond Annie? Would she get the recognition she so desperately wanted?
I listened to the audiobook of Queens of London by Heather Webb. The audiobook was brilliantly narrated by Amy Scanlon. Before listening to this audiobook, I had no prior knowledge of the Forty Elephants and Diamond Annie. The fact that there was such an elusive gang of women that operated around London during that time period was fascinating to me. I thought the characters were well written and thought out. Hiro found a spot in my heart from the beginning. I enjoyed her relationships with her little dog, Annie and the department store saleswoman. Her uncle was despicable and was my least liked character. Heather Webb included an author’s note at the end of the audiobook that explained which characters were real and what really happened to the members of the Forty Elephants and the other characters in Queens of London. I thought this book was very well written and enjoyable. I recommend it highly.
Thank you to Recorded Books for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of Queens of London by Heather Webb through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2023
1925 London and Alice is the leader of the Forty Elephants….they are the best thieves around and steal from department stores regularly!! Alice is know as Diamond Annie and she is a true force!!! She befriends 10 year old Hira who has run away from her awful uncle who wants to send her away to a horrible boarding school after her parents died in India.
There is also Officer Lilian Wyles…one of the only female detectives at Scotland Yard and she knows she needs to make a big arrest to make the men believe in her!! She has her eyes on Diamond Annie!!!
I loved this book of strong female characters, fast paced action, the loyalty of the women in the gang and the very interesting story!!! Well done Heather Webb!! This book will be out on Feb. 6, 2024!!! Get your preorders in now!!!!
There is also Officer Lilian Wyles…one of the only female detectives at Scotland Yard and she knows she needs to make a big arrest to make the men believe in her!! She has her eyes on Diamond Annie!!!
I loved this book of strong female characters, fast paced action, the loyalty of the women in the gang and the very interesting story!!! Well done Heather Webb!! This book will be out on Feb. 6, 2024!!! Get your preorders in now!!!!
March 1, 2024
Queens of London
A Novel
by Heather Webb
Queen of London by Heather Webb is an incredible historical fiction set in 1920s London. The story is about strong women and also about their vulnerabilities - the story is based on a real all-girl gang called The Forty Elephants, and I feel that Heather Webb did a fabulous job of depicting these women.
I think fans of historical fiction, women in history, and just readers in general will enjoy this one.
Thank you so much Sourcebooks Landmark, @bookmarked and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
A Novel
by Heather Webb
Queen of London by Heather Webb is an incredible historical fiction set in 1920s London. The story is about strong women and also about their vulnerabilities - the story is based on a real all-girl gang called The Forty Elephants, and I feel that Heather Webb did a fabulous job of depicting these women.
I think fans of historical fiction, women in history, and just readers in general will enjoy this one.
Thank you so much Sourcebooks Landmark, @bookmarked and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2025
We meet four wonderful characters, and characters you will love even though one is on the wrong side of the law part-time and one full-time.
You will love Hira, a 10-year-old who ran away from a life of luxury at her unloving, cruel uncle's house, just because of her innocence about not knowing what was really out there outside of her lovely upbringing.
You will love Alice just because she's a feisty woman in the 1920s and head of a gang of women who steal to survive.
You will love Lillian, a police woman from Scotland Yard, who is trying her best to show the men that she can do what they do, and even do it better.
You will love Dorothy, an unassuming, but talented clerk in a department store who is kind and generous especially to Hira.
Queens of London will capture your interest immediately because of the setting, the time period, the characters, and the interest about these women called The Forty Elephants and what they do.
You won't know who to root for because they are all likable characters, but I was sort of leaning toward Hira, because she didn't know what she had gotten herself into after leaving her uncle's house even though she knew it would be worse where he was going to send her.
Dorothy was also a favorite because she was a sweetheart, and I hoped she would be able to get her designs noticed.
I knew Heather Webb would not disappoint.
Her books are always amazing...terrific writing and interest-keeping storyline.
Her research is impeccable.
Based on characters, THE QUEENS OF LONDON will be enjoyed by historical fiction fans and fans of life in London at this time.
ENJOY the antics, sorrows, and lives of the characters!!
Be sure to read the author's notes for more information. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You will love Hira, a 10-year-old who ran away from a life of luxury at her unloving, cruel uncle's house, just because of her innocence about not knowing what was really out there outside of her lovely upbringing.
You will love Alice just because she's a feisty woman in the 1920s and head of a gang of women who steal to survive.
You will love Lillian, a police woman from Scotland Yard, who is trying her best to show the men that she can do what they do, and even do it better.
You will love Dorothy, an unassuming, but talented clerk in a department store who is kind and generous especially to Hira.
Queens of London will capture your interest immediately because of the setting, the time period, the characters, and the interest about these women called The Forty Elephants and what they do.
You won't know who to root for because they are all likable characters, but I was sort of leaning toward Hira, because she didn't know what she had gotten herself into after leaving her uncle's house even though she knew it would be worse where he was going to send her.
Dorothy was also a favorite because she was a sweetheart, and I hoped she would be able to get her designs noticed.
I knew Heather Webb would not disappoint.
Her books are always amazing...terrific writing and interest-keeping storyline.
Her research is impeccable.
Based on characters, THE QUEENS OF LONDON will be enjoyed by historical fiction fans and fans of life in London at this time.
ENJOY the antics, sorrows, and lives of the characters!!
Be sure to read the author's notes for more information. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2024
4.5
*Thank you to @the.caffeinated.reader for this giveaway win! So exciting!
Dynasty, notorious, orphan…
Alice Diamond, the queen of the 40 Elephants, is leader of a female crime gang that steals from London department stores.
She is pitted against Inspector Lilian Wyles, a Scotland Yard detective trying to make a name for herself in this male-dominated field. Arresting someone like Alice or a gang member would be a real feather in her cap.
Action-packed tale of grit, belonging, sisterhood, betrayal, determination, and resilience.
Historical fiction.
*Plucky, cagey, feminist characters. Easy to have empathy with all.
*Based loosely on Alice Diamond, who led the gang beginning in 1916. Lots of info available online.
*I think I’ve now read 3 books by Heather Webb. She’s become an auto-read for me.
*Heather Webb is quite a gifted storyteller. Enjoyable read.
*Thank you to @the.caffeinated.reader for this giveaway win! So exciting!
Dynasty, notorious, orphan…
Alice Diamond, the queen of the 40 Elephants, is leader of a female crime gang that steals from London department stores.
She is pitted against Inspector Lilian Wyles, a Scotland Yard detective trying to make a name for herself in this male-dominated field. Arresting someone like Alice or a gang member would be a real feather in her cap.
Action-packed tale of grit, belonging, sisterhood, betrayal, determination, and resilience.
Historical fiction.
*Plucky, cagey, feminist characters. Easy to have empathy with all.
*Based loosely on Alice Diamond, who led the gang beginning in 1916. Lots of info available online.
*I think I’ve now read 3 books by Heather Webb. She’s become an auto-read for me.
*Heather Webb is quite a gifted storyteller. Enjoyable read.
February 16, 2024
How can I describe this book? Have you ever made or had made for you, refrigerator clean up casserole? Take all sorts of things out of the frig, throw them in a pot, bake or cook. No one item stands out any longer and while you eat it, more out of necessity, you wouldn't necessarily do it again. This is this book to me. There were several story lines, some legitimately historical, that were thrown together in a pot and stirred. The plot lines mixed together but weren't necessarily appetizing. I found myself skipping lots of paragraphs because they just weren't necessary. I wouldn't recommend the book.
February 14, 2024
I flew through this book on a snowy day and when I finally looked up, it was dark outside! Heather Webb is such a flawless storyteller. Her pacing, her character development—I love being in the hands of a pro like Heather. With its all-female street gang in gritty 1920’s London, this story is perfect for Peaky Blinders fans. This story is propulsive and absolutely engrossing! Strong female characters on both sides of the law make for an absolutely fascinating read.
December 18, 2024
Rounded up from 2.5 stars
This is the third historical novel about the Forty Elephants, London's notorious all-women gang of thieves, I've read in the past 18 months. In many ways, it's indistinguishable from the others ("Queen of Thieves" and "The Forty Elephants.") Except for a few brief descriptive passages, the writing is serviceable at best; the characters barely rise above stereotypes; several major plot points hinge on coincidences. "Queens of London" has the added disadvantage of shoehorning in among the fact-based characters two stock figures: a gorgeous but gullible young woman with a heart of gold who is wronged by her lascivious boss and a precocious poor little rich girl who runs away from her uncaring guardian. It's all as absurd, predictable, and frustrating as it sounds, and yet, I did keep reading. It was the perfect escapist fiction I needed at this particular time, and it did seem to capture aspects of 1920s London.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third historical novel about the Forty Elephants, London's notorious all-women gang of thieves, I've read in the past 18 months. In many ways, it's indistinguishable from the others ("Queen of Thieves" and "The Forty Elephants.") Except for a few brief descriptive passages, the writing is serviceable at best; the characters barely rise above stereotypes; several major plot points hinge on coincidences. "Queens of London" has the added disadvantage of shoehorning in among the fact-based characters two stock figures: a gorgeous but gullible young woman with a heart of gold who is wronged by her lascivious boss and a precocious poor little rich girl who runs away from her uncaring guardian. It's all as absurd, predictable, and frustrating as it sounds, and yet, I did keep reading. It was the perfect escapist fiction I needed at this particular time, and it did seem to capture aspects of 1920s London.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2024
4.5 ⭐
Thank you RB media for my gifted ALC and Sourcebooks for my gifted ARC.
A historical fiction of a different kind, Queens of London was a blast! Gritty, high stakes, feminist, full of action and drama, but also heartwarming with the found family vibes and unlikely friendships.
This is fictional, but based on real people and events. Having watched Peaky Blinders, I thought it was so fun to hear familiar names, places, and events. I LOVE the idea of an all women gang - a perspective we don't see often enough. Can we start a petition to make this a TV show or movie??
The audiobook is PHENOMENAL 🎉 I have print and audio, and I was rotating between the two. And both were good, but I found myself completely immersed in the audio. Amy Scanlon is outstanding!!! Her range and ability to portray this large cast - including a child - is no small feat. Brilliant!
Thank you RB media for my gifted ALC and Sourcebooks for my gifted ARC.
A historical fiction of a different kind, Queens of London was a blast! Gritty, high stakes, feminist, full of action and drama, but also heartwarming with the found family vibes and unlikely friendships.
This is fictional, but based on real people and events. Having watched Peaky Blinders, I thought it was so fun to hear familiar names, places, and events. I LOVE the idea of an all women gang - a perspective we don't see often enough. Can we start a petition to make this a TV show or movie??
The audiobook is PHENOMENAL 🎉 I have print and audio, and I was rotating between the two. And both were good, but I found myself completely immersed in the audio. Amy Scanlon is outstanding!!! Her range and ability to portray this large cast - including a child - is no small feat. Brilliant!
February 4, 2024
** Book Review ** Out Feb 6
I have been lucky to have already read some great reads this year and The Queens of London is certainly one of them.
This historical fiction novel by the talented Heather Webb is based on the true story of an all-female shoplifting crime ring, the Forty Elephants, in London, England, in the 1920s.
We see the story unfold through the eyes of Alice, the tough, conflicted leader of the ring, Hira, a loveable orphaned 10-year-old girl, Dorothy, a young, underestimated department saleswoman, and Lilian, a female police woman with Scotland Yard, which was quite rare in that time period. This is a story of found family, loyalty, justice and what it means, desperation, discrimination, poverty, and female empowerment. The characters were well developed and there were parts of each of them that I could relate to.
The author says in her Author’s Note that she could see the story like a movie reel playing behind her eyes and that is exactly how I felt reading this novel. The writing was easy to read, flowed well, and was very descriptive and the pacing was smooth and even. I felt like I was in the world created by the author. Wonderful fiction like this is why I love to read. Highly recommend!
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley for this complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I have been lucky to have already read some great reads this year and The Queens of London is certainly one of them.
This historical fiction novel by the talented Heather Webb is based on the true story of an all-female shoplifting crime ring, the Forty Elephants, in London, England, in the 1920s.
We see the story unfold through the eyes of Alice, the tough, conflicted leader of the ring, Hira, a loveable orphaned 10-year-old girl, Dorothy, a young, underestimated department saleswoman, and Lilian, a female police woman with Scotland Yard, which was quite rare in that time period. This is a story of found family, loyalty, justice and what it means, desperation, discrimination, poverty, and female empowerment. The characters were well developed and there were parts of each of them that I could relate to.
The author says in her Author’s Note that she could see the story like a movie reel playing behind her eyes and that is exactly how I felt reading this novel. The writing was easy to read, flowed well, and was very descriptive and the pacing was smooth and even. I felt like I was in the world created by the author. Wonderful fiction like this is why I love to read. Highly recommend!
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley for this complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
May 2, 2025
A phenomenal read about women who take it all back- at knife point. The Forty Elephants are an all female gang (based on real history) who protect their own and make their own way, though not legally. This story has four strong women: the little girl, the gang leader, the inspector, and the shop keeper and I loved every one of them. This is the feeling I get when Shania Twain says "let's go girls". A new favorite for sure!
thank you to NetGalley, the author Heather Webb, and RB Media for my copy of this audiobook.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Heather Webb, and RB Media for my copy of this audiobook.
January 1, 2024
By the author of THE NEXT SHIP HOME and THREE WORDS FOR GOODBYE. Heather Webb is a very good author. I read and enjoy both of those. THE NEXT SHIP HOME was my favorite of hers.
This is the story of three women and a little girl. Each play a very important role in this book.
Alice Diamond is the Queen of London's streets. The infamous leader of a gang of female thieves called The Forty Elephants. They are notorious for the things they steal and resale. But they tend to get away with it a lot. While some do get caught and spend time along with hard labor, mostly they do manage to get away. Alice does not put up with anything from her girls either. They must remain loyal and be there for each other. Sometimes that doesn't happen and she has to dole out punishment. She always defends her girls though and even strangers if they need her help.
Lilian Wyles is a female detective who wants nothing more than to move up in her field. To be respected by her fellow coworkers and her boss. She's one of a few female officers and she wants her break to prove she's up for the job. She's after Alice. If she can bring her down she will have proven herself. Also there is the young girl Hira Wickham who is missing. She is out to find her also. To rescue her from the streets and return her to her Uncle Clyde. She has no idea why Hira ran away but she will find out.
Dorothy McBride is a sales girl at the department store where The Forty Elephants do a lot of their stealing. She wants to be taken seriously. She designs clothes but does not have the courage to show them to anyone but her mother. She's been dating the boss. I saw the outcome of that coming right off. I liked Dorothy and thought she was a very bright young woman. She has a heart and deserves good things.
Hira Wickham was living with her uncle. He was not a kind man but didn't hit her either. Hira wanted nothing more than to be loved. She wanted her parents. When Uncle Clyde told her she was to be sent away she ran. She had nowhere to go and didn't know anyone but she learned quickly how to survive. She found a true friend in a dirty little pup she named Biscuit. Because he loved biscuits. In a round about way she joined Alice's gang. Alice was not cruel but she also was not that kind either.
This story is based on an actual gang set in London and known as The Forty Elephants lead by Alice. A lot of it really happened but some did not. Some of the characters are actual people from that time and others are not. Dorothy and Hira and Biscuit are fictional but also the most lovable of characters. I really admired Dorothy. She finally stood up for herself and made a decision that was best for her. She was kind to Hira always and even treated Biscuit very well. I didn't much care for Alice. I thought she was petty with certain things. It was good how she took up for women in distress but not so good how she treated people in general. She had a hard life and was abused by her dad but that should have taught her a bit of compassion too. I liked Detective Wyles for the most part. She was just trying to make her mark in the world of men. And do her job.
This book was a fun read though at times had me holding my breath. I feared for Hira a lot but she was a very resilient little girl. The story is well written and you will learn some things from it. At least I did. I had no idea about female gangs in that era.
Thank you #NetGalley, #HeatherWebb, #SourceBooksLandmark for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.
4/5 stars and a high recommendation.
This is the story of three women and a little girl. Each play a very important role in this book.
Alice Diamond is the Queen of London's streets. The infamous leader of a gang of female thieves called The Forty Elephants. They are notorious for the things they steal and resale. But they tend to get away with it a lot. While some do get caught and spend time along with hard labor, mostly they do manage to get away. Alice does not put up with anything from her girls either. They must remain loyal and be there for each other. Sometimes that doesn't happen and she has to dole out punishment. She always defends her girls though and even strangers if they need her help.
Lilian Wyles is a female detective who wants nothing more than to move up in her field. To be respected by her fellow coworkers and her boss. She's one of a few female officers and she wants her break to prove she's up for the job. She's after Alice. If she can bring her down she will have proven herself. Also there is the young girl Hira Wickham who is missing. She is out to find her also. To rescue her from the streets and return her to her Uncle Clyde. She has no idea why Hira ran away but she will find out.
Dorothy McBride is a sales girl at the department store where The Forty Elephants do a lot of their stealing. She wants to be taken seriously. She designs clothes but does not have the courage to show them to anyone but her mother. She's been dating the boss. I saw the outcome of that coming right off. I liked Dorothy and thought she was a very bright young woman. She has a heart and deserves good things.
Hira Wickham was living with her uncle. He was not a kind man but didn't hit her either. Hira wanted nothing more than to be loved. She wanted her parents. When Uncle Clyde told her she was to be sent away she ran. She had nowhere to go and didn't know anyone but she learned quickly how to survive. She found a true friend in a dirty little pup she named Biscuit. Because he loved biscuits. In a round about way she joined Alice's gang. Alice was not cruel but she also was not that kind either.
This story is based on an actual gang set in London and known as The Forty Elephants lead by Alice. A lot of it really happened but some did not. Some of the characters are actual people from that time and others are not. Dorothy and Hira and Biscuit are fictional but also the most lovable of characters. I really admired Dorothy. She finally stood up for herself and made a decision that was best for her. She was kind to Hira always and even treated Biscuit very well. I didn't much care for Alice. I thought she was petty with certain things. It was good how she took up for women in distress but not so good how she treated people in general. She had a hard life and was abused by her dad but that should have taught her a bit of compassion too. I liked Detective Wyles for the most part. She was just trying to make her mark in the world of men. And do her job.
This book was a fun read though at times had me holding my breath. I feared for Hira a lot but she was a very resilient little girl. The story is well written and you will learn some things from it. At least I did. I had no idea about female gangs in that era.
Thank you #NetGalley, #HeatherWebb, #SourceBooksLandmark for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.
4/5 stars and a high recommendation.
February 8, 2024
Immersive, charged, and gritty!
Queens of London is an engaging, enlightening tale that sweeps you away to London during 1925 and into the lives of a handful of women, including the notorious Diamond Annie, leader of the all-female crime gang, the Forty Elephants; Lilian Wyles, the first female CID officer at Scotland Yard; Hira, a young orphan determined to do whatever it takes to make it on the streets alone; and Dorothy, a somewhat naive young shop assistant who is almost too kind for her own good.
The prose is evocative and expressive. The characters are vulnerable, driven, and engaging. And the plot is an intriguing, action-packed tale of life, loss, love, self-discovery, secrets, manipulation, female friendships, determination, family, betrayal, moral dilemmas, well-planned heists, street crime, and the ins and outs of policing in the early twentieth century.
Overall, Queens of London is a wonderful blend of historical facts and compelling fiction that’s gripping, atmospheric, and perfect for anyone who loves to learn a little bit more about some of the most trailblazing women in history.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Queens of London is an engaging, enlightening tale that sweeps you away to London during 1925 and into the lives of a handful of women, including the notorious Diamond Annie, leader of the all-female crime gang, the Forty Elephants; Lilian Wyles, the first female CID officer at Scotland Yard; Hira, a young orphan determined to do whatever it takes to make it on the streets alone; and Dorothy, a somewhat naive young shop assistant who is almost too kind for her own good.
The prose is evocative and expressive. The characters are vulnerable, driven, and engaging. And the plot is an intriguing, action-packed tale of life, loss, love, self-discovery, secrets, manipulation, female friendships, determination, family, betrayal, moral dilemmas, well-planned heists, street crime, and the ins and outs of policing in the early twentieth century.
Overall, Queens of London is a wonderful blend of historical facts and compelling fiction that’s gripping, atmospheric, and perfect for anyone who loves to learn a little bit more about some of the most trailblazing women in history.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2024
This book follows four different women during 1925 in London - Alice is the head of the notorious women’s gang, the Forty Elephants, Lilian is the police inspector trying to to investigate the gang and make a name for herself, Hira is a small child who is forced to live on the streets after her parents pass away and she gets entangled with the gang and finally Dorothy who is a pretty employee of one of the fanciest department stores in London and just wants to meet her husband.
The Forty Elephants makes their living by stealing dresses, jewelry, handbags and other women’s items from major department stores all over London. They all have bad relationships either with men or alcohol or both and Alice dreams of buying a place where the women could all live and be safe. But to be able to afford this, they will have to pull off their biggest heist to date. And all of this is going just as Lilian is assigned to bring in Alice and shut down the Forty Elephants. Alice also meets Hira after she sees her pickpocket people in the street because she’s so hungry. She takes her under her wing and lets her come home with her. Dorothy is another woman Hira befriends. She helps share food with Hira and Hira’s little dog, Biscuit.
Alice convinces Hira to take advantage of Dorothy’s kindness and steals the key to the storage room at the department store. This sets into motion the biggest heist. I loved that most of the book is based on true stories and Alice, the Forty Elephants and Inspector Lilian Wyes were all real people. It’s awful these women had to resort to a life a crime to get ahead in life or away from terrible home situations. This was really well written and always left me wanting to know what happened next.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours, @msheatherwebb and @bookmarked for my gifted copy. Queens of London is out on Feb 6th!
The Forty Elephants makes their living by stealing dresses, jewelry, handbags and other women’s items from major department stores all over London. They all have bad relationships either with men or alcohol or both and Alice dreams of buying a place where the women could all live and be safe. But to be able to afford this, they will have to pull off their biggest heist to date. And all of this is going just as Lilian is assigned to bring in Alice and shut down the Forty Elephants. Alice also meets Hira after she sees her pickpocket people in the street because she’s so hungry. She takes her under her wing and lets her come home with her. Dorothy is another woman Hira befriends. She helps share food with Hira and Hira’s little dog, Biscuit.
Alice convinces Hira to take advantage of Dorothy’s kindness and steals the key to the storage room at the department store. This sets into motion the biggest heist. I loved that most of the book is based on true stories and Alice, the Forty Elephants and Inspector Lilian Wyes were all real people. It’s awful these women had to resort to a life a crime to get ahead in life or away from terrible home situations. This was really well written and always left me wanting to know what happened next.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours, @msheatherwebb and @bookmarked for my gifted copy. Queens of London is out on Feb 6th!
February 6, 2024
1925-London
Alice Diamond known as “Diamond Annie” runs her all-woman gang the Forty Elephants. She wants the best for her girls and a lot of them are not in the best of circumstances. These girls are her family!
They meet on a regular basis and plan their next heist. They appear at high end department stores looking for lingerie, stockings, jewelry, clothes and anything they know will make a profit.
A local female detective with Scotland Yard, Officer Lillian Wyles is wanting to be acknowledged for more than being a female. She is asked to find runaways and if she can catch Diamond Annie and her girls, this would get her noticed!
I loved the part of her story where Diamond Annie takes in a little runaway and shows her the ropes, but finds her heart is not as tough as she leads everyone to believe. Diamond Annie’s girls each have their stories and Dorothy is one that tugged at my sleeves.
Will Detectives Wyles get what she desires? One major heist changes the course of everyone. Thank you Sourcebooks Landmark and Heather Webb for this advanced copy. This novel is available February 6, and you won’t want to miss reading this one.
Alice Diamond known as “Diamond Annie” runs her all-woman gang the Forty Elephants. She wants the best for her girls and a lot of them are not in the best of circumstances. These girls are her family!
They meet on a regular basis and plan their next heist. They appear at high end department stores looking for lingerie, stockings, jewelry, clothes and anything they know will make a profit.
A local female detective with Scotland Yard, Officer Lillian Wyles is wanting to be acknowledged for more than being a female. She is asked to find runaways and if she can catch Diamond Annie and her girls, this would get her noticed!
I loved the part of her story where Diamond Annie takes in a little runaway and shows her the ropes, but finds her heart is not as tough as she leads everyone to believe. Diamond Annie’s girls each have their stories and Dorothy is one that tugged at my sleeves.
Will Detectives Wyles get what she desires? One major heist changes the course of everyone. Thank you Sourcebooks Landmark and Heather Webb for this advanced copy. This novel is available February 6, and you won’t want to miss reading this one.
January 8, 2024
Queens of London is the first book I have read by Heather Webb. I have read Meet Me In Monaco that she has wrote with Hazel Gaynor and I eagerly started reading Queens of London as my first book written by Heather Webb on her own.
This book is very descriptive and has a strong sense of place and well developed characters. The writing made me feel transported to London in 1925. I was immediately absorbed in this novel when I started and the first sentence had my attention fully. I found this book to be a very immersive historical fiction read and I didn't want to stop reading and I found myself picking it up, even if it was only to read a page or two, whenever I had an opportunity. I definitely am going to read more books written by this author in the future.
I highly recommend reading the author's note at the end to learn more about the author's research process and the resources she accessed when writing the novel and the inspiration for writing the book.
This book is very descriptive and has a strong sense of place and well developed characters. The writing made me feel transported to London in 1925. I was immediately absorbed in this novel when I started and the first sentence had my attention fully. I found this book to be a very immersive historical fiction read and I didn't want to stop reading and I found myself picking it up, even if it was only to read a page or two, whenever I had an opportunity. I definitely am going to read more books written by this author in the future.
I highly recommend reading the author's note at the end to learn more about the author's research process and the resources she accessed when writing the novel and the inspiration for writing the book.
February 3, 2024
In 1925, a gang of women known as the "Forty Elephants" or "Forty Thieves," regularly stole clothing and jewelry from London's premier department stores. While most of their heists were not dangerous, the group required unquestionable fidelity. In "Queens of London," its leader, Diamond Annie, crosses paths with a 10 year old half-Indian orphan; Lilian Wyles, one of London's first female detectives; and a shopgirl who aspires to design clothing. This novel had all the makings of an action-packed female dominated read through the Roaring 20s, so why was I so underwhelmed? I think, ultimately, that the book tried to cover too much. The varying locations and characters were so plentiful that we never really got a feel for any one of them. I think the book could have been much more impactful if it were more focused. Some real events and the historical figures of Alice Diamond/Diamond Annie and Lilian Wyles were woven well into the fabric of the book. I would not hesitate to try another Heather Webb historical novel, but I hope I'll find more enjoyment in reading it than I did in "Queens of London."
TW: death, violence, physical and sexual assault, though none are explored too deeply.
"Queens of London" is available in the US on February 6, 2024. Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark, Recorded Books, and Netgalley for this audio ARC given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
TW: death, violence, physical and sexual assault, though none are explored too deeply.
"Queens of London" is available in the US on February 6, 2024. Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark, Recorded Books, and Netgalley for this audio ARC given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 4, 2024
Heather Webb is an auto-buy author for me and Queens of London may be her best book yet. I love a story about strong and take-charge women and the women in 1925 London were just that!!!
Diamond Annie is the leader of an all-girls crime group. Lillian is an investigator who is desperate to capture Annie and her gang. Hira is a young girl who runs away from a horrible situation and finds herself on the streets and taken in by Annie. This story is filled with so much action and intrigue and also heart…like all Heather Webb books!!!
5 HUGE stars for this amazing book! Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the honor to read and review this book!!!
Diamond Annie is the leader of an all-girls crime group. Lillian is an investigator who is desperate to capture Annie and her gang. Hira is a young girl who runs away from a horrible situation and finds herself on the streets and taken in by Annie. This story is filled with so much action and intrigue and also heart…like all Heather Webb books!!!
5 HUGE stars for this amazing book! Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the honor to read and review this book!!!
January 24, 2024
Thank you to Sourcebooks and netgalley for allowing me to read Queens of London by Heather Webb. I have read another book by this author and I have another on my tbr .This book was historical fiction but I had to look up some terms like Forty Elephants because it could have been true. This book had a lot of strong women characters that made the story enjoyable, there was even a dog that was focused on a little too much. If you love historical fiction and a book focused on women it will not disappoint.
February 23, 2024
From the publisher: A tale of dark glamour and sisterhood, Queens of London is a look at Britain’s first female crime syndicate, the ever-shifting meaning of justice, and the way women claim their power by any means necessary. 1925. LONDON. When Alice Diamond, a.k.a. “Diamond Annie,” is elected the queen of the Forty Elephants, she’s determined to take the all-girl gang to new heights. She’s ambitious, tough as nails, and a brilliant mastermind with a plan to create a dynasty the likes of which no one has ever seen. MAYBE WOMEN CAN HAVE IT ALL. AS LONG AS THEY’RE WILLING TO STEAL IT.
My thoughts: Webb's story focuses on 4 women set in 1925s London. Her novel opens eyes to the complicated web that tied together criminal and police circles in that era and the unsuspecting people caught in the middle. This famous group introduces me to Diamond Annie, the most infamous criminal in London history. She decided she wanted the beautiful things the middle and high class society women had, but didn’t have the means to obtain. Her moral compass was compromised so badly she had no second thoughts about using crime to get what she wanted.
Alice clearly has ambitions to do more than just rake in the cash for a fleeting good time, but her plans to take care of her girls are met with obstacles. Diamond Annie's plans are jeopardized by Inspector Lilian Wyles, one of the first policewomen in English history, set to shutdown the Elephants. Intelligent, courageous, and desperate to prove herself to her bosses, Lilian is focused to nab Diamond Annie.
Based on real events and real people, Queens of London shows that no matter what the circumstances, we need to work to prove ourselves. Life has layers and it takes courage to fight for your goals in the world and society.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmarks for introducing me to 1925s London, the history of an all-female crime syndicate, and the fascinating ways they duped the street police at the Met.
My thoughts: Webb's story focuses on 4 women set in 1925s London. Her novel opens eyes to the complicated web that tied together criminal and police circles in that era and the unsuspecting people caught in the middle. This famous group introduces me to Diamond Annie, the most infamous criminal in London history. She decided she wanted the beautiful things the middle and high class society women had, but didn’t have the means to obtain. Her moral compass was compromised so badly she had no second thoughts about using crime to get what she wanted.
Alice clearly has ambitions to do more than just rake in the cash for a fleeting good time, but her plans to take care of her girls are met with obstacles. Diamond Annie's plans are jeopardized by Inspector Lilian Wyles, one of the first policewomen in English history, set to shutdown the Elephants. Intelligent, courageous, and desperate to prove herself to her bosses, Lilian is focused to nab Diamond Annie.
Based on real events and real people, Queens of London shows that no matter what the circumstances, we need to work to prove ourselves. Life has layers and it takes courage to fight for your goals in the world and society.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmarks for introducing me to 1925s London, the history of an all-female crime syndicate, and the fascinating ways they duped the street police at the Met.
March 13, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
Heather Webb writes the most memorable stories. I still think about The Next Ship Home, her book about Ellis Island. I feel like her writing, also in this one, really encapsulates her characters. Usually, I feel like when I’m reading, I can feel similarities between their books, but each of hers are so unique, and the characters are so convincing.
I love how this book focuses on four strong women - two who were based on real women in London;
•A notorious female gang leader named Diamond Annie
•one of the first female police chief inspectors Lilian Wyles
The other two were such lovable characters, the orphan Hira and saleswoman Dorothy.
“She’s a sweet little thing. She doesn’t belong with that gang. She’s only trying to survive.”
“Aren’t we all, Miss McBride?”
She nodded. “Why yes, Inspector, I suppose we are.”
Ch 38
“Who was the queen of the London streets now?” Ch 44
Heather Webb writes the most memorable stories. I still think about The Next Ship Home, her book about Ellis Island. I feel like her writing, also in this one, really encapsulates her characters. Usually, I feel like when I’m reading, I can feel similarities between their books, but each of hers are so unique, and the characters are so convincing.
I love how this book focuses on four strong women - two who were based on real women in London;
•A notorious female gang leader named Diamond Annie
•one of the first female police chief inspectors Lilian Wyles
The other two were such lovable characters, the orphan Hira and saleswoman Dorothy.
“She’s a sweet little thing. She doesn’t belong with that gang. She’s only trying to survive.”
“Aren’t we all, Miss McBride?”
She nodded. “Why yes, Inspector, I suppose we are.”
Ch 38
“Who was the queen of the London streets now?” Ch 44
February 5, 2024
The talented author has chosen a fresh non-WWII era (1920s) and topic (a real life criminal network of women in England) to base this absorbing historical fiction novel on. I had not heard before of the two main characters: brilliant criminal Alice Diamond, Queen of the Forty Elephants, nor of her nemesis, Officer Lilian Wyles of Scotland Yard.
Beautifully written and utterly gripping, I could not put this fantastic tale down. Highly recommended for histfic fans who love compelling stories about famous women, even those on the wrong side of the law.
Beautifully written and utterly gripping, I could not put this fantastic tale down. Highly recommended for histfic fans who love compelling stories about famous women, even those on the wrong side of the law.
March 1, 2024
Is there anything better than a strong female main character?
How about FOUR of them?!
Based on true events, Queens of London follows the all-girl gang Forty Elephants - Britain’s first female crime syndicate - and their fearless leader Annie Diamond, also known as “Diamond Annie.” As another first female, Lilian Wyles, becomes a detective for Scotland Yard, and she is determined to crack a big case to finally be taken seriously by the all-men force who keep giving her “women work” assignments that are below her capabilities. When she hears about a large heist going down - led by Annie and her crime family - she’s finally got the chance to prove herself.
This was a historical fiction breath of fresh air. The 4 women at the forefront of the story, Annie, Lillian, department store saleswoman Dorothy, and orphan Hira, find their completely different worlds colliding and through wisdom, wit, and a most cleverly crafted (and fun!) story, you cannot help but fall for both sides of the law, and shamelessly root for every woman involved. In particular, the spunky lost little girl and her little dog named Biscuit, just searching for someone to love them and not settling for anything less.
As always, Heather Webb has once again blown me away. Her character development is flawless and she leaves you with this feeling that you’ve just made a bunch of new found friends. The setting, both time and place, feels historic yet reachable, and you feel as if you are dropped right into the story, experiencing it all first hand. Every novel is filled with humor and heart, and are epic tributes to females who paved the way by creating their own paths and not letting any thing or anyone stand in their way.
A must read for those who enjoy riveting and fast-paced heist stories, full of vulnerable, feisty, and strong female leads.
How about FOUR of them?!
Based on true events, Queens of London follows the all-girl gang Forty Elephants - Britain’s first female crime syndicate - and their fearless leader Annie Diamond, also known as “Diamond Annie.” As another first female, Lilian Wyles, becomes a detective for Scotland Yard, and she is determined to crack a big case to finally be taken seriously by the all-men force who keep giving her “women work” assignments that are below her capabilities. When she hears about a large heist going down - led by Annie and her crime family - she’s finally got the chance to prove herself.
This was a historical fiction breath of fresh air. The 4 women at the forefront of the story, Annie, Lillian, department store saleswoman Dorothy, and orphan Hira, find their completely different worlds colliding and through wisdom, wit, and a most cleverly crafted (and fun!) story, you cannot help but fall for both sides of the law, and shamelessly root for every woman involved. In particular, the spunky lost little girl and her little dog named Biscuit, just searching for someone to love them and not settling for anything less.
As always, Heather Webb has once again blown me away. Her character development is flawless and she leaves you with this feeling that you’ve just made a bunch of new found friends. The setting, both time and place, feels historic yet reachable, and you feel as if you are dropped right into the story, experiencing it all first hand. Every novel is filled with humor and heart, and are epic tributes to females who paved the way by creating their own paths and not letting any thing or anyone stand in their way.
A must read for those who enjoy riveting and fast-paced heist stories, full of vulnerable, feisty, and strong female leads.
September 14, 2023
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
Strong female characters all over the place in this book! This was a quick read with fast paced action and tense situations. I struggled to choose sides for most of the book because both sides of the law were so compelling and even Alice had her redeeming moments!
✅ Great age spectrum! I loved seeing the different views and priorities of Hira versus Alice and Dorothy.
✅ We love a heist! The 40 Elephants were incredibly fun to follow around and I caught myself rooting for the "bad guys" frequently.
✅ A tidy happy ending that makes you feel warm inside!
❌ Dorothy/Hira book discrepancy. It was mentioned early in the book that Dorothy bought Hira a book but she didn't actually buy the book until chapt 23. Probably just an editing mistake!
❌ I would love to know what happens between Simon and Alice after the epilogue.
❌ I think the cover art could be more in line with a grittier London gang vibe. Not entirely sure what that looks like.
Overall, a great book with a lot of complex characters just trying to survive! 4/5 ⭐
Strong female characters all over the place in this book! This was a quick read with fast paced action and tense situations. I struggled to choose sides for most of the book because both sides of the law were so compelling and even Alice had her redeeming moments!
✅ Great age spectrum! I loved seeing the different views and priorities of Hira versus Alice and Dorothy.
✅ We love a heist! The 40 Elephants were incredibly fun to follow around and I caught myself rooting for the "bad guys" frequently.
✅ A tidy happy ending that makes you feel warm inside!
❌ Dorothy/Hira book discrepancy. It was mentioned early in the book that Dorothy bought Hira a book but she didn't actually buy the book until chapt 23. Probably just an editing mistake!
❌ I would love to know what happens between Simon and Alice after the epilogue.
❌ I think the cover art could be more in line with a grittier London gang vibe. Not entirely sure what that looks like.
Overall, a great book with a lot of complex characters just trying to survive! 4/5 ⭐
November 5, 2023
This is a fascinating book about an all women’s gang in London during the 1920’s. Readers will enjoy being immersed into the beginnings of the feminist movement as seen through the lens of gangs, police officers and shop workers. The intersectional stories of Diamond Annie and her gang, little Hira, and Officer Lilian will have you questioning your loyalties as you decide who to root for! Morality and paternalism are major themes in this book and you will find yourself seeing many sides to different stories! I have never read or heard about Diamond Annie and her gang and really enjoyed living inside this novel for a while, Thanks to NetGalley for a ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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