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Library Girls #2
Hard Times for the East End Library Girls
As the war reaches London, they’ll band together… War strikes close to home for chief librarian Cordelia when her flat is bombed, and her beloved Robert is called up and sent abroad. Fortunately, her colleagues Mavis and Jane can help see her through hard times.
The three friends find purpose in making the Silvertown library a friendly sanctuary for their deprived and devastated community. But sinister forces, from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals, still lurk among the stacks. Worse, Jane’s soldier husband is injured and suffers both physically and mentally.
With so many struggles Cordelia and her friends might need more than books to survive war's shadow. Can they find light in the darkness?
A captivating tale of resilience and determination, perfect for fans of Lizzie Lane, Elaine Roberts and Lesley Eames.
'a compelling story of friendships and the hardships of war, with excellent sketches of the East End. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend.' Rosie Clarke
'I was hooked from page one. Rich in historical detail and with characters you feel you know... Highly recommended!' Lynette Rees
'A brilliant read - the sort of book you can immerse yourself in completely ... You couldn’t read the story without it reaching your heart, or without wanting to know what will become of these women' Fran Smith
The three friends find purpose in making the Silvertown library a friendly sanctuary for their deprived and devastated community. But sinister forces, from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals, still lurk among the stacks. Worse, Jane’s soldier husband is injured and suffers both physically and mentally.
With so many struggles Cordelia and her friends might need more than books to survive war's shadow. Can they find light in the darkness?
A captivating tale of resilience and determination, perfect for fans of Lizzie Lane, Elaine Roberts and Lesley Eames.
'a compelling story of friendships and the hardships of war, with excellent sketches of the East End. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend.' Rosie Clarke
'I was hooked from page one. Rich in historical detail and with characters you feel you know... Highly recommended!' Lynette Rees
'A brilliant read - the sort of book you can immerse yourself in completely ... You couldn’t read the story without it reaching your heart, or without wanting to know what will become of these women' Fran Smith
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2024
390 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 18, 2024
Hard Times for the East End Library Girls is the second book in the Library Girls series. I didn't realize this was a series, but I had no problem enjoying this story as a standalone. Having said that, I do want to go back and read the first one, to get all the background of these three wonderful friends. In this book, war has come to England, and the East End of London has become victim to the blitz. Head Librarian, Cordelia, is bombed out of her home, and needs to find a new place to live. She is also dealing with her beau, a doctor, being sent to the front. Her two co-workers, Mavis and Jane are also dealing with loss. Both their men are also at the front, as well as Mavis' son, and Jane's daughter has been evacuated to the countryside. The three women want to do their part for the community, and after seeing what quilting does for the men at a convalescent home, decide to have a group in the library for those who are dealing with loss. With the library playing a central part in this story, we see how these three friends deal with all that is happening in London, the East End and their own lives.
This was a wonderful story of life on the homefront, friendship, resilience, supporting others, family, grief, and more. I really liked the three main characters. Cordelia came from a well to do family, but respects and cares about the people in the East End. She is smart, strong, and stands up to others, even her own father, when he puts down the people and community. I think Mavis was my favourite. She was tough, had a son out of wedlock who was now in the army and loved a little girl she rescued when a bombing killed her mother. She shoots from the hip, and doesn't mince words, often making me laugh. She kept everyone on the straight and narrow at the library. Jane was such a sweetheart. Her husband was injured at the front, and come home with "shell shock". She was also dealing with her mother who had lung cancer, as well as a tumultuous relationship, and the sadness at sending her daughter to live out in the countryside. With all this going on, she was so caring toward others. She even does something that makes her a hero. Tom is the volunteer from the library who is a conscientious objector. He only lets Cordelia know this, as he has a "gammy leg" so most people assume he was injured at the front. He was a Godsend to the ladies. His calm and caring demeanor had him working with some of the troublesome patrons and making them comfortable, and feel accepted. There is a lot that happens in this book, which made it seem very realistic. I can only imagine what living through the blitz was like. The library was such a central part of this story. Not only was it used to exchange books, but brought so many people together to make the memory quilt. I loved how some of the secondary characters reacted to this endeavor and it showed another side to how people dealt with being on the homefront while their loved ones were fighting. Being uses by the Red Cross as an IIP center helping reunite families or let them know what happened to their loved ones, was heartbreaking, but a necessary role. Overall, this was a heartwarming and uplifting story, highlighting community, friendship and the importance of books and the library in these times. I highly recommend Hard Times for the East End Library Girls.
This was a wonderful story of life on the homefront, friendship, resilience, supporting others, family, grief, and more. I really liked the three main characters. Cordelia came from a well to do family, but respects and cares about the people in the East End. She is smart, strong, and stands up to others, even her own father, when he puts down the people and community. I think Mavis was my favourite. She was tough, had a son out of wedlock who was now in the army and loved a little girl she rescued when a bombing killed her mother. She shoots from the hip, and doesn't mince words, often making me laugh. She kept everyone on the straight and narrow at the library. Jane was such a sweetheart. Her husband was injured at the front, and come home with "shell shock". She was also dealing with her mother who had lung cancer, as well as a tumultuous relationship, and the sadness at sending her daughter to live out in the countryside. With all this going on, she was so caring toward others. She even does something that makes her a hero. Tom is the volunteer from the library who is a conscientious objector. He only lets Cordelia know this, as he has a "gammy leg" so most people assume he was injured at the front. He was a Godsend to the ladies. His calm and caring demeanor had him working with some of the troublesome patrons and making them comfortable, and feel accepted. There is a lot that happens in this book, which made it seem very realistic. I can only imagine what living through the blitz was like. The library was such a central part of this story. Not only was it used to exchange books, but brought so many people together to make the memory quilt. I loved how some of the secondary characters reacted to this endeavor and it showed another side to how people dealt with being on the homefront while their loved ones were fighting. Being uses by the Red Cross as an IIP center helping reunite families or let them know what happened to their loved ones, was heartbreaking, but a necessary role. Overall, this was a heartwarming and uplifting story, highlighting community, friendship and the importance of books and the library in these times. I highly recommend Hard Times for the East End Library Girls.
December 28, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
the east end during the war was hit badly during the blitz, so its amazing how the library service continued during the war but continue it did and with these 3 librarians it became a source of information and comradery
a safe place for people to come together and share their stories whilst sewing together and chatting and for information about survivors but also it encouraged people to read
and also the librarians werent above any of the suffering as each time we visited them one of them would be going through some strife or other
not a bad read though at times i did wonder where we were off to at times, each incident went off at a different tangent that was at odds with what was happening at the time with no real explanation.... though the writing was easy to fall into i felt at times disjointed as though i was missing something before each inciden
the east end during the war was hit badly during the blitz, so its amazing how the library service continued during the war but continue it did and with these 3 librarians it became a source of information and comradery
a safe place for people to come together and share their stories whilst sewing together and chatting and for information about survivors but also it encouraged people to read
and also the librarians werent above any of the suffering as each time we visited them one of them would be going through some strife or other
not a bad read though at times i did wonder where we were off to at times, each incident went off at a different tangent that was at odds with what was happening at the time with no real explanation.... though the writing was easy to fall into i felt at times disjointed as though i was missing something before each inciden
June 25, 2024
There were definitely hard times in the second year of World War II for these three women as their significant others were now serving overseas. Having loved the first book, I appreciated that this one picks right up where the first one ended. The reader gets an inside look at how the war affected those who live in the poorer neighborhoods. As the Blitz destroys more and more buildings, the East End Library picks up the slack by offering its space to help the community. Volunteers of all ages did incredible work and did it with such compassion and professionalism.
I loved the newest member of the staff at the East End Library. Tom works as a part-time volunteer and is a conscientious objector, a touchy subject in wartime. He had spent some time in India where he became a Buddhist and is a real asset helping the library patrons. I thought he was a perfect addition to the series. This book only covers one year so I hope that means the series will continue. Although there were no blockbuster events, it was pure comfort reading to catch up with Cordelia, Mavis, and Jane and there is much to be said for that. In a week of bad news, it was just what I needed.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
I loved the newest member of the staff at the East End Library. Tom works as a part-time volunteer and is a conscientious objector, a touchy subject in wartime. He had spent some time in India where he became a Buddhist and is a real asset helping the library patrons. I thought he was a perfect addition to the series. This book only covers one year so I hope that means the series will continue. Although there were no blockbuster events, it was pure comfort reading to catch up with Cordelia, Mavis, and Jane and there is much to be said for that. In a week of bad news, it was just what I needed.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
March 18, 2024
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of this novel.
People who love to read generally love libraries, giving instant appeal to books that feature library settings. This is the second volume of Patricia McBride’s Library Girls series, set in the storied working-class east end of London—here, the Silvertown area. The three librarians introduced in the first novel, Lady Cordelia Carmichael, the first “lady librarian” to head the branch, no doubt also the first from the titled nobility, the middle-aged “rough about the edges” Mavis, and the gentle, timid, Jane, have gotten themselves and their precious library through the first year of the Second World War. As the story opens, Cordelia’s flat and all her belongings have been destroyed, and her physician boyfriend has been conscripted. Mavis has not had word from her enlisted son in some time. Jane’s husband George is injured, as much psychologically as physically, and she is beset by worry for their little daughter, evacuated to the countryside, and her cold and angry mother who lies dying in a hospital. Nor, of course, do the bombings show any sign of ending as 1941 dawns.
The larger war details, including the Blitz and its horrors, are historical and therefore well known. McBride shows us, in gentle strokes, what everyday life might have looked like for the ordinary, often poor, residents of a major city in wartime. She also shows us something often forgotten about libraries, and librarians, many of whom were women. They gave refuge to those who, because of class or because of war, had few places to go to for the sort of comfort that a good book, a newspaper otherwise unaffordable, help in finding needed information, and a bit of fellowship. It’s not that the library provided some magical escape during anxious times when death was a daily fact no matter the age or rank; the author doesn’t gloss over how war and poverty and stress take their toll. Loss and grief spare no one. The three librarians have to deal with the mundane, such as food and clothing shortages, as well as on-going destruction.
There are the administrative hassles of being understaffed and overstretched, facing down book thieves who steal books for resale, superiors who do little more than find fault, patrons they long to help but cannot. There are concerns about the enigmatic Tom, a conscientious objector whose voluntary library hours are a blessing, but whose status, if known by patrons, would be problematic.
There are no thrilling twists or shocking developments, and the pace is slow, while the main characters are sometimes too noble and well-meaning. But if It seems odd to call a story set in wartime in an area downtrodden long before the war a ‘comfort read,’ that’s what this really is. It reminds us that courage and compassion are essential to getting through hard times.
People who love to read generally love libraries, giving instant appeal to books that feature library settings. This is the second volume of Patricia McBride’s Library Girls series, set in the storied working-class east end of London—here, the Silvertown area. The three librarians introduced in the first novel, Lady Cordelia Carmichael, the first “lady librarian” to head the branch, no doubt also the first from the titled nobility, the middle-aged “rough about the edges” Mavis, and the gentle, timid, Jane, have gotten themselves and their precious library through the first year of the Second World War. As the story opens, Cordelia’s flat and all her belongings have been destroyed, and her physician boyfriend has been conscripted. Mavis has not had word from her enlisted son in some time. Jane’s husband George is injured, as much psychologically as physically, and she is beset by worry for their little daughter, evacuated to the countryside, and her cold and angry mother who lies dying in a hospital. Nor, of course, do the bombings show any sign of ending as 1941 dawns.
The larger war details, including the Blitz and its horrors, are historical and therefore well known. McBride shows us, in gentle strokes, what everyday life might have looked like for the ordinary, often poor, residents of a major city in wartime. She also shows us something often forgotten about libraries, and librarians, many of whom were women. They gave refuge to those who, because of class or because of war, had few places to go to for the sort of comfort that a good book, a newspaper otherwise unaffordable, help in finding needed information, and a bit of fellowship. It’s not that the library provided some magical escape during anxious times when death was a daily fact no matter the age or rank; the author doesn’t gloss over how war and poverty and stress take their toll. Loss and grief spare no one. The three librarians have to deal with the mundane, such as food and clothing shortages, as well as on-going destruction.
There are the administrative hassles of being understaffed and overstretched, facing down book thieves who steal books for resale, superiors who do little more than find fault, patrons they long to help but cannot. There are concerns about the enigmatic Tom, a conscientious objector whose voluntary library hours are a blessing, but whose status, if known by patrons, would be problematic.
There are no thrilling twists or shocking developments, and the pace is slow, while the main characters are sometimes too noble and well-meaning. But if It seems odd to call a story set in wartime in an area downtrodden long before the war a ‘comfort read,’ that’s what this really is. It reminds us that courage and compassion are essential to getting through hard times.
March 20, 2024
I fell in love with these girls in the first book so rejoining them and their stories in the war was a joy. The East End got a fair battering, with bombing, houses and lives lost and in amongst it all is Cordelia, Mavis and Jane who staff an unassuming library trying to keep the community together (and in books of course).
Reading the first book isn’t a necessity to this one as you’re filled in well and given the opportunity to get to know the characters so you could just jump in to the series from here but the first one was brilliant too and would thoroughly recommend.
In Hard Times for the East End Library Girls, there’s new faces and plenty of traumas, tragedies and joys to navigate. The pages suddenly disappeared and I’d finished the book before I knew it?! It was so addicting and my kindle was read hot with the speed that I lapped this up.
We’re still at the beginning of the war with these lovable girls so I can only hope that there will be more to follow! Definitely not had enough of this charming trio and I’m constantly rooting for them all. Really enjoyable and entertaining reading.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
Reading the first book isn’t a necessity to this one as you’re filled in well and given the opportunity to get to know the characters so you could just jump in to the series from here but the first one was brilliant too and would thoroughly recommend.
In Hard Times for the East End Library Girls, there’s new faces and plenty of traumas, tragedies and joys to navigate. The pages suddenly disappeared and I’d finished the book before I knew it?! It was so addicting and my kindle was read hot with the speed that I lapped this up.
We’re still at the beginning of the war with these lovable girls so I can only hope that there will be more to follow! Definitely not had enough of this charming trio and I’m constantly rooting for them all. Really enjoyable and entertaining reading.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
April 19, 2024
The second in the East End Library Girls series and a welcome return to Cordelia, Jane and Mavis. Since Cordelia arrived at the library, the three have become firm friends. This book continues where the first one left off and we follow the lives of the three women and how they are surviving the war. Houses are bombed, children are evacuated and soldiers are injured, but the three are resilient and manage to cope with whatever is thrown at them.
I loved catching up with these three again. Despite the harrowing circumstances of war, the book has a lovely warm feeling. I enjoy reading about life during the war, the difficulties with housing, finding food and not knowing from one day to the next what will happen. It makes us appreciate everything we have today. The library helped bring the community together and for those who were lonely, I can only imagine that this must have been a godsend.
Although the second in the series, this could be read as a standalone. However, the first one is so good, grab them both and enjoy the adventures of the East End girls. I hope this isn't the last we hear from Cordelia, Jane and Mavis.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review Hard Times for the East End Library Girls by Patricia McBride.
I loved catching up with these three again. Despite the harrowing circumstances of war, the book has a lovely warm feeling. I enjoy reading about life during the war, the difficulties with housing, finding food and not knowing from one day to the next what will happen. It makes us appreciate everything we have today. The library helped bring the community together and for those who were lonely, I can only imagine that this must have been a godsend.
Although the second in the series, this could be read as a standalone. However, the first one is so good, grab them both and enjoy the adventures of the East End girls. I hope this isn't the last we hear from Cordelia, Jane and Mavis.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review Hard Times for the East End Library Girls by Patricia McBride.
June 23, 2025
good series
April 28, 2024
I enjoyed being back in Silvertown library and catching up with Cordelia, Mavis and Jane. The war has is hitting London hard and each of the main characters have their individual issues to deal with. Cordelia has to cope with her beloved Robert being called up, Jane is struggling with her husband George fighting on the front line whilst their daughter has been evacuated, and Mavis is waiting to hear about Joyce the young girl she rescued . We are introduced to new volunteer Tom who has his own story and catch up with some of library regulars from the first book. This ultimately shows how with support, friendships and determination a community can work together to face even the worse things that life throws at them. A great historical read that gives an insight into what the East End was like during the war. It is very clear that the author has done some in depth research. I would recommend reading the previous book but key events and each of the characters backgrounds are covered well if you haven’t
April 19, 2024
While World War II historical fiction that takes place away from the frontlines only continues to increase in popularity, I ususally find myself hesitant when sifting through these books. Many of these 'back-at-home; stories are often described as 'heartwarming' or 'uplifting', and I often find that hard to square away with the ever-present, horrific backdrop of war. However, Patricia McBride's plucky Hard Times for the East End Library Girls, with resilience and determination at its center, might have made me a convert.
The title is indeed apt. McBride follows the three librarians of the Silvertown library, along with Tom, a new volunteer and conscientious objector, as they deal with an onslaught of hard times. Cordelia, chief librarian, first finds herself without an apartment after hers is bombed, and then can only watch as her partner is suddenly enlisted. Jane struggles with her husband after he returns from war with more pain than just his broken leg, an ailing mother, and a young daughter who's evacuated to the countryside. And Mavis worries about Joyce, a young girl she previously rescued, who's now living in a children's home. It's a lot packed into one book, but McBride manages to give each of their stories full attention in a satisfying way.
And while all of this back-to-back is quite heavy, there is in fact hope in these pages. McBride, with a gentle touch, has gone to great lengths to paint this trio of women as real, tightknit group. And by having three of them, McBride has crafted a built-in support system that always means there's room for light. While Cordelia deals with rebuilding her home life, Mavis and Jane are there to provide some levity and a laugh or two—something reciprocated to the others as they take control of the action. So even as the tightly plotted plot crashes from one tragedy to another calamity, there's always a sense that things will be okay—even if it's not in the exact way each of the librarians wants.
It also helps that one thing pulling them together is a library, a building I find practically irresistible in life and fiction. With the war in full swing, their branch has become even more of a community center than usual, and perhaps the one place many locals seek out as a refuge in uncertain times. McBride's careful attention to historic detail shines light on the important role libraries played in London during World War II, including, in this case, serving as a host for quilting circles. So, indeed, the idea of Cordelia, Jane, and Mavis working to serve the patrons around them with access to books and other resources against unprecedented times (both public and private) ultimately does feel uplifting.
Hard Times for the East End Library Girls serves as a well-constructed look at three individuals trying to find the best in a harsh world while elevating those around them. Heartwarming indeed.
I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also published at pluckedfromthestacks.wordpress.com
The title is indeed apt. McBride follows the three librarians of the Silvertown library, along with Tom, a new volunteer and conscientious objector, as they deal with an onslaught of hard times. Cordelia, chief librarian, first finds herself without an apartment after hers is bombed, and then can only watch as her partner is suddenly enlisted. Jane struggles with her husband after he returns from war with more pain than just his broken leg, an ailing mother, and a young daughter who's evacuated to the countryside. And Mavis worries about Joyce, a young girl she previously rescued, who's now living in a children's home. It's a lot packed into one book, but McBride manages to give each of their stories full attention in a satisfying way.
And while all of this back-to-back is quite heavy, there is in fact hope in these pages. McBride, with a gentle touch, has gone to great lengths to paint this trio of women as real, tightknit group. And by having three of them, McBride has crafted a built-in support system that always means there's room for light. While Cordelia deals with rebuilding her home life, Mavis and Jane are there to provide some levity and a laugh or two—something reciprocated to the others as they take control of the action. So even as the tightly plotted plot crashes from one tragedy to another calamity, there's always a sense that things will be okay—even if it's not in the exact way each of the librarians wants.
It also helps that one thing pulling them together is a library, a building I find practically irresistible in life and fiction. With the war in full swing, their branch has become even more of a community center than usual, and perhaps the one place many locals seek out as a refuge in uncertain times. McBride's careful attention to historic detail shines light on the important role libraries played in London during World War II, including, in this case, serving as a host for quilting circles. So, indeed, the idea of Cordelia, Jane, and Mavis working to serve the patrons around them with access to books and other resources against unprecedented times (both public and private) ultimately does feel uplifting.
Hard Times for the East End Library Girls serves as a well-constructed look at three individuals trying to find the best in a harsh world while elevating those around them. Heartwarming indeed.
I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also published at pluckedfromthestacks.wordpress.com
August 2, 2024
The second of Patricia McBride’s Library Girls novels, Hard Times, picks up where The Library Girls of the East End left off.
It’s late December 1940 and librarian Cordelia has just returned to London after spending Christmas with her parents in the country. Her return is marred by the bombing of her flat and Cordelia soon re-locates to the East End – closer to the Silvertown Library and closer to her two work friends, Jane and Mavis.
As the story unfolds, Cordelia copes with the absence of her beau (a doctor who has been called to the front), Jane deals with the anxiety of her husband’s injuries (both physical and mental) and separation from her daughter who has been evacuated to the country, and Mavis reconnects with a young girl orphaned in a bombing raid.
Added to the cast of characters is conscientious objector Tom who has studied Buddhism in India. He provides an interesting counterpoint to the prevailing ‘everyone should do their bit’ ethic.
Further adding to the wartime picture, McBride incorporates the role of the Information and Inquiry Points (IIF) to track missing persons, the rise of spiritualism, the role of the library as a community hub, and the use of stately residences as convalescent homes for servicemen.
Overall, an easy read with insights into London civilian life during World War 11.
* * * * * * * * * *
Book one in the Library Girl series is The Library Girls of the East End; book three is A Christmas Gift for the East End Library Girls.
It’s late December 1940 and librarian Cordelia has just returned to London after spending Christmas with her parents in the country. Her return is marred by the bombing of her flat and Cordelia soon re-locates to the East End – closer to the Silvertown Library and closer to her two work friends, Jane and Mavis.
As the story unfolds, Cordelia copes with the absence of her beau (a doctor who has been called to the front), Jane deals with the anxiety of her husband’s injuries (both physical and mental) and separation from her daughter who has been evacuated to the country, and Mavis reconnects with a young girl orphaned in a bombing raid.
Added to the cast of characters is conscientious objector Tom who has studied Buddhism in India. He provides an interesting counterpoint to the prevailing ‘everyone should do their bit’ ethic.
Further adding to the wartime picture, McBride incorporates the role of the Information and Inquiry Points (IIF) to track missing persons, the rise of spiritualism, the role of the library as a community hub, and the use of stately residences as convalescent homes for servicemen.
Overall, an easy read with insights into London civilian life during World War 11.
* * * * * * * * * *
Book one in the Library Girl series is The Library Girls of the East End; book three is A Christmas Gift for the East End Library Girls.
April 5, 2024
Library Girls #2
War strikes close to home for the chief librarian Cordelia when her flat is bombed, and her beloved Robert is called up and sent abroad. Fortunately, her colleagues, Mavis and Jane, can help see her through hard times. The three friends find purpose in making the Silvertown library a friendly sanctuary for their deprived and devastated community. But sinister forces, from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals, still lurk among the stacks. Worse. Jane's soldier husband is injured and suffers both physically and mentally. With so many struggles, Cordelia and her friends might need more than books to survive the war's shadow. Can they find light in the darkness?
The war has now entered its second year. Cordelia, Mavis, and Jane have new obstacles to overcome. We have a new part-time volunteer at the East End library - Tom, a conscientious objector. We learn about the Blitz and the horrors of living through that awful time. We get trauma and tragedies in this addictive read. There are no twists, just the godawful truth about women trying to give others something to focus on whilst dealing with their own dramas.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #PatriciaMcBride for my ARC of #HardTimesfortheEastEndLibraryGirls in exchange for an honest review.
War strikes close to home for the chief librarian Cordelia when her flat is bombed, and her beloved Robert is called up and sent abroad. Fortunately, her colleagues, Mavis and Jane, can help see her through hard times. The three friends find purpose in making the Silvertown library a friendly sanctuary for their deprived and devastated community. But sinister forces, from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals, still lurk among the stacks. Worse. Jane's soldier husband is injured and suffers both physically and mentally. With so many struggles, Cordelia and her friends might need more than books to survive the war's shadow. Can they find light in the darkness?
The war has now entered its second year. Cordelia, Mavis, and Jane have new obstacles to overcome. We have a new part-time volunteer at the East End library - Tom, a conscientious objector. We learn about the Blitz and the horrors of living through that awful time. We get trauma and tragedies in this addictive read. There are no twists, just the godawful truth about women trying to give others something to focus on whilst dealing with their own dramas.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #PatriciaMcBride for my ARC of #HardTimesfortheEastEndLibraryGirls in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2024
llowing the stories of the East End Library girls in Silvertown. It begins with Cordelia losing all her things in a bombing and then finding out her boyfriend Robert is being called up to serve, even though he is a doctor. After staying with her friend she finds another place to live. She soon focuses on building up the library and making it an enjoyable escape for the locals, along with Mavis and Jane.
I enjoyed both installments of this story and I hope there will be more in the series. I thought the writer once again did a great job of bringing this time alive. Even though I’m sure it was an incredibly difficult time with all the bombings and worry for the soldiers and those serving, it’s also an interesting time for me to read about. As an avid reader, I loved how the library was a refuge of sorts, for the locals during the war. Not only did it provide them an opportunity to read, but it became a community center of sorts providing help for the locals. This time around, a quilting group was organized to give the neighbors help and support during this challenging time. It was also nice to learn more about the stories of Mavis, Jane, and Cordelia. I’d love to see this book series turned into a mini-series.
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author of this book.
I enjoyed both installments of this story and I hope there will be more in the series. I thought the writer once again did a great job of bringing this time alive. Even though I’m sure it was an incredibly difficult time with all the bombings and worry for the soldiers and those serving, it’s also an interesting time for me to read about. As an avid reader, I loved how the library was a refuge of sorts, for the locals during the war. Not only did it provide them an opportunity to read, but it became a community center of sorts providing help for the locals. This time around, a quilting group was organized to give the neighbors help and support during this challenging time. It was also nice to learn more about the stories of Mavis, Jane, and Cordelia. I’d love to see this book series turned into a mini-series.
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author of this book.
April 24, 2024
I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
I chose this book because I typically feel drawn to any book with a setting like a bookshop or library.
This is a historical saga set during WWII. At the start of the book, we met Cordelia, whose family has lost their home. I liked Cordelia a lot, as she seemed a very warm, kind-hearted character, who was always willing to help others in need. I also identified with her and her love of books. Mavis was another character that I liked and found very endearing.
I found parts of the story upsetting, but parts of it were heartwarming and humorous. It seemed that the characters were able to find reasons to laugh, reasons to be cheerful and thankful, despite the difficulties they faced.
Over the last few years, I've taken to reading historical sagas more and more. I find that a book like this is often a good choice if you're looking for a light read that will help you to escape, and take you on an emotional journey.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
I chose this book because I typically feel drawn to any book with a setting like a bookshop or library.
This is a historical saga set during WWII. At the start of the book, we met Cordelia, whose family has lost their home. I liked Cordelia a lot, as she seemed a very warm, kind-hearted character, who was always willing to help others in need. I also identified with her and her love of books. Mavis was another character that I liked and found very endearing.
I found parts of the story upsetting, but parts of it were heartwarming and humorous. It seemed that the characters were able to find reasons to laugh, reasons to be cheerful and thankful, despite the difficulties they faced.
Over the last few years, I've taken to reading historical sagas more and more. I find that a book like this is often a good choice if you're looking for a light read that will help you to escape, and take you on an emotional journey.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
April 24, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming and well written story set in the East End in 1940, during the Blitz.
It's the second in a series but I had no issues with plot or characters even if I didn't read the first one.
I loved the tone and the style of writing, even in the most tragic moments there's always something that makes you think about future and hope.
Cordelia, Mavis and Jane are very differents persons. They comes from different social backgrounds and their characters are very different. But they're able to join forces and face the difficulties of the the historical moments and those cause by bureucracy or simple pettiness.
Tom, a part time volunteer, is a very original character: he's a conscientious objector and it's the first time I read about one in a historical fiction set in WWII
The author did an excellent job in mixing tones as there's humour, some drama and some moments when you feel angry.
The historical background is well done as it makes you feel how hard it was.
I cannot wait to read another book in this series, this one is highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for this arc, all opinions are mine.
It's the second in a series but I had no issues with plot or characters even if I didn't read the first one.
I loved the tone and the style of writing, even in the most tragic moments there's always something that makes you think about future and hope.
Cordelia, Mavis and Jane are very differents persons. They comes from different social backgrounds and their characters are very different. But they're able to join forces and face the difficulties of the the historical moments and those cause by bureucracy or simple pettiness.
Tom, a part time volunteer, is a very original character: he's a conscientious objector and it's the first time I read about one in a historical fiction set in WWII
The author did an excellent job in mixing tones as there's humour, some drama and some moments when you feel angry.
The historical background is well done as it makes you feel how hard it was.
I cannot wait to read another book in this series, this one is highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for this arc, all opinions are mine.
April 6, 2024
An entertaining, cosy story set in the Second World War. Three young women work in a London library during the Blitz (although actually very little is made of the regular impact air raids had on their lives, other than one losing her flat). The story follows their lives - Jane has a husband injured and sent home, while her daughter has been evacuated to the countryside; Mavis has a past (I haven't read the first in the series to know much more) and wants to adopt a child she found after a bombing and Cordelia comes from a privileged background and has a doctor boyfriend.
The story is told well, albeit with a few continuity issues, and is an entertaining read. The setting in the library is unusual and interesting, particularly when the library has to expand its remit to include other uses, very much like today. The characters evoke sympathy and the reader is interested in what happens to them.
I enjoyed it and will look out for more. Thank you to NetGalley and for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told well, albeit with a few continuity issues, and is an entertaining read. The setting in the library is unusual and interesting, particularly when the library has to expand its remit to include other uses, very much like today. The characters evoke sympathy and the reader is interested in what happens to them.
I enjoyed it and will look out for more. Thank you to NetGalley and for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2024
Hard Times for the East End Library Girls is a heartwarming read that has you hooked from the first chapter.
Although it is Book 2 , I had not read the first in the series but I had no trouble picking up the story.
Cordelia head librarian , Mavis and Jane are more than co workers , they are friends and they are there for each other in good times and hard times.
Its WWII so the times are mainly hard, but the ladies along with Tom a volunteer have a purpose to provide a safe place and an escape for the hard East End of London.
Patricia McBride writes so well that I felt I was walking along the side these remarkable ladies who are facing their own hardships.
I am a new fan of Patricia McBride and I am off to read the first book in this series.
I am excited to see what happens to East End Library Girls.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for introducing me to the author and this series.
Although it is Book 2 , I had not read the first in the series but I had no trouble picking up the story.
Cordelia head librarian , Mavis and Jane are more than co workers , they are friends and they are there for each other in good times and hard times.
Its WWII so the times are mainly hard, but the ladies along with Tom a volunteer have a purpose to provide a safe place and an escape for the hard East End of London.
Patricia McBride writes so well that I felt I was walking along the side these remarkable ladies who are facing their own hardships.
I am a new fan of Patricia McBride and I am off to read the first book in this series.
I am excited to see what happens to East End Library Girls.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for introducing me to the author and this series.
April 19, 2024
There is much to recommend this second in a series, historical fiction narrative, such as community spirit and support during WWII's devastation; quilting; borrowing and reading books; volunteerism and the like. On the other hand there was the travesty and heartache that war brings, be it on the battlefront or at home. Through it all Cordelia, Jane and Mavis navigate and become friends to be counted upon.
However, I was not so thrilled with the spiritist input nor the bedroom intimacies, so there are those cautions for those who prefer not to read about these elements. Overall though, one can get the feel of the stress and distress of what folks back then lived through in those days in London's East End.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
April 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
However, I was not so thrilled with the spiritist input nor the bedroom intimacies, so there are those cautions for those who prefer not to read about these elements. Overall though, one can get the feel of the stress and distress of what folks back then lived through in those days in London's East End.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
April 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
April 20, 2024
With the war still raging the three friends Cordelia, Mavis and Jane are still determined to make a safe and welcoming community library where they all work tirelessly and they have a idea for a quilting to bring the community together. I am in love with this book because of the determination of the characters during the toughest of times. I am well and truly invested in what will become of these women as they feel like treasured friends. There are lots of different twists in the plot to keep it interesting and it's also informative history. There are new characters in this book and tragedy and joys to unravel. Once I started reading I could not stop until I got to the end and then I was disappointed because I don't yet have the next book in the series to continue! I feel all book lovers can relate to the book as who doesn't love a library!?
April 15, 2024
This story really portrayed the sense of community that was present at his time. The three main characters, Cordelia, Janet and Mavis, came from very different family backgrounds. This especially applied to Cordelia, who was from the aristocracy, although she didn’t tell of her background but was concerned with helping those around her in the East End of London. They all have their own problems concerning loved ones and each one’s story is told. This story did give me a warm feeling, that even in the darkest days, most people pulled together to help one another out. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own,
April 19, 2024
Hard Times for the East End Library Girls marks the second installment in Patricia McBride's series.
Cordelia's home is bombed, and despite being a doctor in a reserved occupation, her partner Robert is conscripted. Jane's husband is injured, and Mavis worries about Joyce. Will these women unite to support each other through these challenging times?
Once again, I was captivated right from the start, witnessing the strength and adaptability required of the women during WWII. It felt like I was part of the quilting group!
I urge you to grab a copy today and delve into the world of these remarkable women.
Cordelia's home is bombed, and despite being a doctor in a reserved occupation, her partner Robert is conscripted. Jane's husband is injured, and Mavis worries about Joyce. Will these women unite to support each other through these challenging times?
Once again, I was captivated right from the start, witnessing the strength and adaptability required of the women during WWII. It felt like I was part of the quilting group!
I urge you to grab a copy today and delve into the world of these remarkable women.
May 5, 2024
What a brilliant follow on from the first book.
We see what happens next to Cordelia, Jane & Mavis at the library. The woman start to think things up they can do in the library to bring the community together. We see Tom join them as a volunteer and he helps the people who visit the library. The bombing is still going on but the library stays firm.
The book concentrates on the lives of the woman and what happens to them and their families.
The book does not disappoint and is just as good as the last book.
The plots in the book were good and some exciting bits.
Would recommend this book.
We see what happens next to Cordelia, Jane & Mavis at the library. The woman start to think things up they can do in the library to bring the community together. We see Tom join them as a volunteer and he helps the people who visit the library. The bombing is still going on but the library stays firm.
The book concentrates on the lives of the woman and what happens to them and their families.
The book does not disappoint and is just as good as the last book.
The plots in the book were good and some exciting bits.
Would recommend this book.
March 25, 2024
Another excellent title in the series. The characters are so likeable, each with their own distinctive personalities which the author continues to develop as the series goes on.
The storyline was easy to read and easy to relate too. It was an enjoyable read for an hour before bed every night!
I look forward to the next instalment in the series. Highly recommend the series to others.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and of course the author for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this Arc copy.
The storyline was easy to read and easy to relate too. It was an enjoyable read for an hour before bed every night!
I look forward to the next instalment in the series. Highly recommend the series to others.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and of course the author for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this Arc copy.
April 21, 2024
Whilst I'm yet to read the first book in this series, I did find it easily reads as a standalone and previous events were easily picked up on.
I'm a huge fan of #hisfic and absolutely loved the book, it was about a library full of books after all!
It was the first I've read by McBride and I really liked her writing style. She encapsulated the harsh realities of a war ravaged London perfectly, her descriptions making it easy for the scenes to come alive from between the pages.
Whilst the library girls are all dealing with their individual problems, they still have a great sense of community and cameraderie towards others in need.
I found the book to be a highly enjoyable, heartwarmer of a read and eagerly await the next installment.
I'm a huge fan of #hisfic and absolutely loved the book, it was about a library full of books after all!
It was the first I've read by McBride and I really liked her writing style. She encapsulated the harsh realities of a war ravaged London perfectly, her descriptions making it easy for the scenes to come alive from between the pages.
Whilst the library girls are all dealing with their individual problems, they still have a great sense of community and cameraderie towards others in need.
I found the book to be a highly enjoyable, heartwarmer of a read and eagerly await the next installment.
April 19, 2024
A thoroughly enjoyable WWII fiction set in the East End. This is book two in the series, but worked perfectly as a standalone book.
I really liked all the characters in this book. They had really lovely friendships, and I could imagine them being real.
The storyline was nice and gentle for the most part, with a few exciting moments which I won't spoil by mentioning them here. Sometimes a nice gentle book is exactly what's needed on a sunny Friday afternoon.
I'll definitely be going back to read the previous East End Library Girls book, and hope there'll be more in the future.
I really liked all the characters in this book. They had really lovely friendships, and I could imagine them being real.
The storyline was nice and gentle for the most part, with a few exciting moments which I won't spoil by mentioning them here. Sometimes a nice gentle book is exactly what's needed on a sunny Friday afternoon.
I'll definitely be going back to read the previous East End Library Girls book, and hope there'll be more in the future.
June 5, 2025
The story seems to be moving slowly in this installment. I’m still engaged with the characters and like the bit of progress happening. It was s little frustrating to reach the end of this book and have so many loose ends left unresolved. Like its predecessor, this installment was written to have a sequel. I do enjoy the addition of the spiritualist church and the solace it brought them. It was refreshing for them to find a place that felt spiritually welcoming. Anti-vaxxers beware. This book takes you to task!
April 29, 2024
This is the second book in the East End Library Girl series and it was just wonderful to be back in the company of Cordelia, Mavis and Jane. The book begins at the end of December 1940 and Cordelia arrives back to her flat in London after spending Christmas with her parents and to her horror she discovers it had been bombed and she is now homeless. Luckily she has her dear friends to help her get through this difficult time and she of course has her work at the library. Mavis and Jane are also going though some rough times with the war and family but all three ladies are there for each other thorough thick and thin. Reading this book gave me such a lovely feeling as to how true friends can be there for one another regardless of their background and social status. The characters are written so well by the author and it was lovely to be introduced to a new character, the delightful Tom. I won’t say much more about him but I think he will be a well loved character going forward. As mentioned this is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone but I do recommend reading book 1 (The Library Girls of the East End) as it’s also a wonderful read.
June 19, 2024
In this book we catch up with Cordelia, Mavis and Jane still helping the people of Silvertown during World War Two. Dr Robert is away helping the wounded men from the battlefield and George has come home to recuperate after being injured. There are still ups and downs for these women but the strong bond of friendship they’ve made definitely helps them get through this difficult time. I look forward to catching up with them all again in book three.
March 20, 2024
A charming easy read centred around an East London Library in WW2 and the ladies running it. I find books set in one of the worst parts of our world history very interesting and the resilience of those people living through it just amazing as they suffer through the Blitz while their loved ones are away defending all that is good.
April 10, 2024
This is book 2 in the library girls series. I loved book one and was really happy to be given the opportunity to review this book.
It was great to catch up with the lives of the library girls,
Great book with wonderful characters, definitely worth a read, but read book 1 first.
Great author
It was great to catch up with the lives of the library girls,
Great book with wonderful characters, definitely worth a read, but read book 1 first.
Great author
April 19, 2024
Last year I read the first book in this series, The Library Girls of the East End. I enjoyed that book very much, so I was delighted to be offered the opportunity to read the next book in the series.
If you would like to read my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
If you would like to read my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
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