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Poor Girls
We were never destined to have anything – so you know what we did? We took it anyway. 1922. 20-year-old Eleanor Mackridge is horrified by the future mapped out for her – to serve the upper classes or find a man to marry (preferably kind). She 'proved useful' working in a munitions factory during the war – handling explosives – but now, society is returning to normal and women are being put back in their place. But Eleanor has never paid attention to what society expects of her. When she crosses paths with a member of the notorious female-led gang the Forty Elephants, she is in awe of these bold women who wear diamonds and fur, drink champagne and gin, who take what they want without asking. Now, she sees a new future for she can serve, marry – or steal. After all, men will only let you down. Diamonds are forever.In Poor Girls, Clare Whitfield exposes the criminal underbelly of 1920s London – but this isn't a morality tale, it's an adventure for the willingly wicked.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published February 18, 2025
48 people are currently reading
830 people want to read
About the author
Clare Whitfield
5 books134 followersClare Whitfield was born the fourth child to ex-Armed Forces parents. She grew up on St Helier Estate in Morden before moving to Sutton and currently lives in Hampshire.
People of Abandoned Character, her first novel, was published in 2020 and won the Goldsboro Glass Bell 2021 Award and was shortlisted for the HWA Crime Debut 2021. The Gone and the Forgotten, her second novel, was published in June 2022. Her third novel, Poor Girls, was published in November 2024.
People of Abandoned Character, her first novel, was published in 2020 and won the Goldsboro Glass Bell 2021 Award and was shortlisted for the HWA Crime Debut 2021. The Gone and the Forgotten, her second novel, was published in June 2022. Her third novel, Poor Girls, was published in November 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
September 17, 2024
Most of us who had nothing, would strive to achieve a better life in an honest way (wouldn’t we?) but in 1920’s London, notorious real life female criminal gang ‘The Forty Elephants’ decided that what they couldn’t have they’d just take anyway!
Its 1922 and twenty year old Eleanor Mackridge is living with her parents in Brighton and serving the upper classes in a posh hotel. During the war she worked in a munitions factory, handling explosives, for which she was well paid, as well as doing her bit for the country, but she quickly found that after the war, society deemed that women were no longer needed to do ‘men’s’ work, and were put firmly back in their place.
Eleanor sees no future other than marriage, (hopefully to a kind and decent man), but it’s not enough for her, so when she comes across a member of the Forty Elephants, she imagines a life of plenty - cash, diamonds, luxurious furs and champagne, and from there onwards she’s destined for a roller coaster of a life!
Eleanor becomes ‘Nell’, and joins a cell of the Forty Elephants, who take thieving to a whole new level, alongside Effie, Lily and Charlie.
"The British papers portrayed them as stupid, feckless, feeble minded and the molls of bad men. The American ones portrayed them as dangerous, beautiful and romantic. Both were disappointing. One version to be fucked, the other burned at the stake. It might be nice to occupy somewhere in the middle on occasion, as if they were the same species as men."
This is a brilliant, fast paced telling of the Forty Elephants, with richly drawn characters (who though fictional) give an authentic portrayal of how this gang actually operated, and vividly reveals the social and economic situations of women during the 20s. The main four characters are amusing, slightly wicked ( Effie more so) but also with good hearts when the occasion calls for it. A terrific read that comes highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Aria and Aries for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Its 1922 and twenty year old Eleanor Mackridge is living with her parents in Brighton and serving the upper classes in a posh hotel. During the war she worked in a munitions factory, handling explosives, for which she was well paid, as well as doing her bit for the country, but she quickly found that after the war, society deemed that women were no longer needed to do ‘men’s’ work, and were put firmly back in their place.
Eleanor sees no future other than marriage, (hopefully to a kind and decent man), but it’s not enough for her, so when she comes across a member of the Forty Elephants, she imagines a life of plenty - cash, diamonds, luxurious furs and champagne, and from there onwards she’s destined for a roller coaster of a life!
Eleanor becomes ‘Nell’, and joins a cell of the Forty Elephants, who take thieving to a whole new level, alongside Effie, Lily and Charlie.
"The British papers portrayed them as stupid, feckless, feeble minded and the molls of bad men. The American ones portrayed them as dangerous, beautiful and romantic. Both were disappointing. One version to be fucked, the other burned at the stake. It might be nice to occupy somewhere in the middle on occasion, as if they were the same species as men."
This is a brilliant, fast paced telling of the Forty Elephants, with richly drawn characters (who though fictional) give an authentic portrayal of how this gang actually operated, and vividly reveals the social and economic situations of women during the 20s. The main four characters are amusing, slightly wicked ( Effie more so) but also with good hearts when the occasion calls for it. A terrific read that comes highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Aria and Aries for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
June 19, 2025
In a Nutshell: A historical gangland fiction with an atypical feminist story. Inspired by the women of the Forty Elephants gang in 1920s London who were known for their shoplifting skills. Complex grey characters, fast-moving plot, great historical atmosphere. Much recommend to fans of historical crime.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Most historical fiction novels don’t even look at the period between the two World Wars, an era so rich in technological changes, economic upheavals, and political movements. This book is a welcome entrant in the limited group of books exploring this period and the change in social mores, especially for women.
Bookish Yays:
🙆🏻 This fictional story was inspired by real women in The Forty Elephants, led by Queen Alice Diamond. This band of thieves was unknown to me, so it was interesting to learn about this gang and their modus operandi at a time when women were supposed to be the docile sex.
🙆🏻 Eleanor. She has shades of both a protagonist and an antagonist. Just because she isn't in a typical feminine role, don’t assume her to be smart. She takes quite naïve decisions at times, and often allows her emotions to dominate her decision-making. All this makes her an unusual but compelling historical fiction lead. Those who want a goody-goody or a likeable female lead won't enjoy her portrayal, but I found her grey character intriguing.
🙆🏻 The other female characters in the story, be it Eleanor’s family or her companions in the Forty Elephants group, are also well-defined. The latter women come from varied age groups and varied backgrounds, leading to an interesting motley crew.
🙆🏻 The title is quite ironic. You do see that the gang members are poor girls (in the financial sense) when they join in. You also learn the general struggles of poor girls (those belonging to less privileged families) in 1920s London. But once you notice the activities the Forty Elephants are involved in, and what Eleanor’s “cell” does in the final quarter of the book, their decisions make you wonder whether to root for or against such “poor girls.”
🙆🏻 The found family trope is quite well used in the book, as it doesn’t just stop at a group of disparate individuals coming together, but also explores the complications of having a close-knit friendship with those who rely on lies and deceit for their work. Can you trust such a “family”?
🙆🏻 The pacing of the book is mostly steady. Not exactly fast, but not dragged either.
🙆🏻 Showing the idea of feminism in a historical fiction is somewhat risky, as authors often put 21st century values into earlier century protagonists. But as this is partly based on real women, the feminist angle is quite convincing in depicting what happens when you give women a taste of freedom and higher employment during the war and then expect them to retreat quietly into their pre-war “womanly” roles at homes or in menial jobs. It was great to read a historical fiction novel with so many women who live life on their own terms.
🙆🏻 Other than feminism, the story also covers themes relevant to the era and the plotline such as class differences and gender biases. There are several reflections on human nature and on the varying requirements from men and women.
🙆🏻 While most of the plot is serious and/or emotional, there are also some funny scenes and witty lines to lighten the narrative.
🙆🏻 The historical atmosphere is fabulous. I loved how vividly the setting, both in location and in time period, came alive.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🤷🏻 Eleanor’s relationship with a particular male character gets frustrating at times. While this is still a realistic depiction of how many girls behave when they are in a relationship, the lack of corrective action from Eleanor’s side causes exasperation.
Bookish Nays:
🤦🏻 Almost all the male characters in the book are negative. The only exception is Eleanor’s father, who has only a limited role, and PC Bevan, who comes across as unrealistic. I wish there had been a better representation of the men so that even their arcs could have felt realistic.
🤦🏻 The language didn’t always suit the era. The dialogues and vocabulary seemed to be much more modern than the time setting. One word that was conspicuously anachronous was the word ‘misgender’: it wasn’t at all in use then. (I am also unsure if the hookah would be present in an underground club in 1920s London and if Eleanor would recognise one if she saw it, but I can allow this anomaly some benefit of the doubt as I couldn’t find anything conclusive online.)
🤦🏻 I wish the book had preferred better time indicators. It gets tough to keep track of the time when there are so many events taking place. There are a couple of instances when the number of months that passed is mentioned, but the second half feels longer than it is in the novel.
🤦🏻 The final one-third seems to go off kilter in one particular incident. It is so gruesome and so unlike the rest of the plot in tone that I am not sure if it was the best plotting decision for this storyline. That scene brought down my overall reading experience to some extent, even though the ending was good.
🤦🏻 Personal choice, but I don’t like books that have multiple scenes of drugs and alcohol usage. These might be suited to the character at times, but in this book, I am not sure if the scenes were included only to prove the level of depravity of the character in question. They felt a bit forced.
All in all, while it does seem like I have a few too many complaints, I still enjoyed the book to a great extent. The medley of the themes, the setting, the main characters, and the real-life roots of the gang come together in a mostly winning combination. Had it not been for some uncomfortable scenes in the final section, my rating would have been higher.
Definitely recommended to those looking for a different kind of historical fiction with plenty of morally grey characters and a genuine feel of the darker side of the 1920s.
3.5 stars, rounding up as my Yays are quite hefty and the Nays are more due to personal preferences.
My thanks to Aria & Aries for providing the DRC of “Poor Girls” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
1922. Brighton, England. Twenty-year-old Eleanor hates that the only two options she has to escape her cramped and financially-struggling family home is to marry someone good and kind, or to serve the upper classes. After getting a taste of independence working in a munitions factory during the war, she is struggling to return to the same old life of subjugation. So when she crosses paths with a member of the notorious Forty Elephants and sees what they can do – and more importantly, what they can earn – she suddenly sees a third option in her future: steal.
The story comes to us in Eleanor’s third-person perspective.
Most historical fiction novels don’t even look at the period between the two World Wars, an era so rich in technological changes, economic upheavals, and political movements. This book is a welcome entrant in the limited group of books exploring this period and the change in social mores, especially for women.
Bookish Yays:
🙆🏻 This fictional story was inspired by real women in The Forty Elephants, led by Queen Alice Diamond. This band of thieves was unknown to me, so it was interesting to learn about this gang and their modus operandi at a time when women were supposed to be the docile sex.
🙆🏻 Eleanor. She has shades of both a protagonist and an antagonist. Just because she isn't in a typical feminine role, don’t assume her to be smart. She takes quite naïve decisions at times, and often allows her emotions to dominate her decision-making. All this makes her an unusual but compelling historical fiction lead. Those who want a goody-goody or a likeable female lead won't enjoy her portrayal, but I found her grey character intriguing.
🙆🏻 The other female characters in the story, be it Eleanor’s family or her companions in the Forty Elephants group, are also well-defined. The latter women come from varied age groups and varied backgrounds, leading to an interesting motley crew.
🙆🏻 The title is quite ironic. You do see that the gang members are poor girls (in the financial sense) when they join in. You also learn the general struggles of poor girls (those belonging to less privileged families) in 1920s London. But once you notice the activities the Forty Elephants are involved in, and what Eleanor’s “cell” does in the final quarter of the book, their decisions make you wonder whether to root for or against such “poor girls.”
🙆🏻 The found family trope is quite well used in the book, as it doesn’t just stop at a group of disparate individuals coming together, but also explores the complications of having a close-knit friendship with those who rely on lies and deceit for their work. Can you trust such a “family”?
🙆🏻 The pacing of the book is mostly steady. Not exactly fast, but not dragged either.
🙆🏻 Showing the idea of feminism in a historical fiction is somewhat risky, as authors often put 21st century values into earlier century protagonists. But as this is partly based on real women, the feminist angle is quite convincing in depicting what happens when you give women a taste of freedom and higher employment during the war and then expect them to retreat quietly into their pre-war “womanly” roles at homes or in menial jobs. It was great to read a historical fiction novel with so many women who live life on their own terms.
🙆🏻 Other than feminism, the story also covers themes relevant to the era and the plotline such as class differences and gender biases. There are several reflections on human nature and on the varying requirements from men and women.
🙆🏻 While most of the plot is serious and/or emotional, there are also some funny scenes and witty lines to lighten the narrative.
🙆🏻 The historical atmosphere is fabulous. I loved how vividly the setting, both in location and in time period, came alive.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🤷🏻 Eleanor’s relationship with a particular male character gets frustrating at times. While this is still a realistic depiction of how many girls behave when they are in a relationship, the lack of corrective action from Eleanor’s side causes exasperation.
Bookish Nays:
🤦🏻 Almost all the male characters in the book are negative. The only exception is Eleanor’s father, who has only a limited role, and PC Bevan, who comes across as unrealistic. I wish there had been a better representation of the men so that even their arcs could have felt realistic.
🤦🏻 The language didn’t always suit the era. The dialogues and vocabulary seemed to be much more modern than the time setting. One word that was conspicuously anachronous was the word ‘misgender’: it wasn’t at all in use then. (I am also unsure if the hookah would be present in an underground club in 1920s London and if Eleanor would recognise one if she saw it, but I can allow this anomaly some benefit of the doubt as I couldn’t find anything conclusive online.)
🤦🏻 I wish the book had preferred better time indicators. It gets tough to keep track of the time when there are so many events taking place. There are a couple of instances when the number of months that passed is mentioned, but the second half feels longer than it is in the novel.
🤦🏻 The final one-third seems to go off kilter in one particular incident. It is so gruesome and so unlike the rest of the plot in tone that I am not sure if it was the best plotting decision for this storyline. That scene brought down my overall reading experience to some extent, even though the ending was good.
🤦🏻 Personal choice, but I don’t like books that have multiple scenes of drugs and alcohol usage. These might be suited to the character at times, but in this book, I am not sure if the scenes were included only to prove the level of depravity of the character in question. They felt a bit forced.
All in all, while it does seem like I have a few too many complaints, I still enjoyed the book to a great extent. The medley of the themes, the setting, the main characters, and the real-life roots of the gang come together in a mostly winning combination. Had it not been for some uncomfortable scenes in the final section, my rating would have been higher.
Definitely recommended to those looking for a different kind of historical fiction with plenty of morally grey characters and a genuine feel of the darker side of the 1920s.
3.5 stars, rounding up as my Yays are quite hefty and the Nays are more due to personal preferences.
My thanks to Aria & Aries for providing the DRC of “Poor Girls” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
April 6, 2025
I hate to say it but I was bored out of my skull reading this! How can a book marketed as a story about the “female Peaky blinders” be so dull? I’m so disappointed 😩
May 14, 2024
*I work for the publisher but all opinions are my own*
"You don't need to be stronger than a man if you run in packs"
This was an incredibly fun and wicked romp from start to finish. Ever wanted to know more about how the real all female crime gang the Forty Elephants ran in the 1920s London? This is the historical fiction for you.
We follow Nell, a young 19-year-old working class girl from Brighton working as a waitress serving the upper class and awful. Nell has always hungered for adventure, so when the opportunity comes to move to London and join the gang, she finds she cannot resist...
This novel dripped with atmosphere with the glitz and glamour of gang life intermingling with the stench and sourness of the poverty line in 20s London. Aside from feeling like you are one of the girl gang, this novel has you learning all the tricks of the trade for just how they operated; thieving from department stores and jewellers and the wealthy.
I absolutely adored the sense of sisterhood between Nell and her 'cell'; the mini-group of girls who operated and worked together as one. Effie, Charlie and Lil were each colourful and unique characters that brought something different to the novel and you couldn't help but root for these girls.
This is a wild romp that I just had so much fun with. 5 stars!
"You don't need to be stronger than a man if you run in packs"
This was an incredibly fun and wicked romp from start to finish. Ever wanted to know more about how the real all female crime gang the Forty Elephants ran in the 1920s London? This is the historical fiction for you.
We follow Nell, a young 19-year-old working class girl from Brighton working as a waitress serving the upper class and awful. Nell has always hungered for adventure, so when the opportunity comes to move to London and join the gang, she finds she cannot resist...
This novel dripped with atmosphere with the glitz and glamour of gang life intermingling with the stench and sourness of the poverty line in 20s London. Aside from feeling like you are one of the girl gang, this novel has you learning all the tricks of the trade for just how they operated; thieving from department stores and jewellers and the wealthy.
I absolutely adored the sense of sisterhood between Nell and her 'cell'; the mini-group of girls who operated and worked together as one. Effie, Charlie and Lil were each colourful and unique characters that brought something different to the novel and you couldn't help but root for these girls.
This is a wild romp that I just had so much fun with. 5 stars!
October 30, 2024
Poor Girls is set in 1920’s England and gives an insight into how the all female crime gang, The Forty Elephants, operated in London. Eleanor comes from a poorer background and works as a waitress in order to make money to support her family. When Eleanor is met with the opportunity to quit her job and become involved in the all female crime gang, although reluctant at first, it soon becomes an adventure she can’t resist.
I thought that the author did a really good job at helping the reader to become invested in the characters from early on in the book, especially Eleanor, aka Nell. The three girls that Nell became friends with at the start of her new London life; Charlie, Lily and Effie, also provided great depth to the story and I found myself becoming just as invested in them as I was Nell. I felt the way the book was written provided a perfect amount of history, whilst also using a fun and exciting approach into understanding what life was life back then and the lives that these women led.
This book was certainly different to what I usually read, however it speaks for itself how much I enjoyed it considering I finished it in a couple of days. Overall, I really liked the writing style, storyline and characters in this book, and I was hooked throughout. I really was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this and I would highly recommend. It is without a doubt one of my favourite books that I have read recently. Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
I thought that the author did a really good job at helping the reader to become invested in the characters from early on in the book, especially Eleanor, aka Nell. The three girls that Nell became friends with at the start of her new London life; Charlie, Lily and Effie, also provided great depth to the story and I found myself becoming just as invested in them as I was Nell. I felt the way the book was written provided a perfect amount of history, whilst also using a fun and exciting approach into understanding what life was life back then and the lives that these women led.
This book was certainly different to what I usually read, however it speaks for itself how much I enjoyed it considering I finished it in a couple of days. Overall, I really liked the writing style, storyline and characters in this book, and I was hooked throughout. I really was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this and I would highly recommend. It is without a doubt one of my favourite books that I have read recently. Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
March 23, 2025
What a great read. I was caught up in all the actions of the Forty Elephants and really willing them to get away with all they did. I’m going to miss Nell, Effie, Charlie and Lily.
November 6, 2024
We were never destined to have anything - so you know what we did? We took it anyway.
The year is 1922, and Twenty-year-old Eleanor Mackridge cannot help but be completely aghast and horrified by what her future has in store for her - to serve the upper classes, cater to their every whim and need, no matter how fanciful or childish or she could always marry a man hopefully kind enough to perhaps listen to her once in a while. That is the extend of all she can ever hope for.
Eleanor ‘proved useful’ working in a busy munitions factory during the war - she was actually handling explosives for goodness sake! - but now, society is returning to normality and as a woman she must remember her place and not make a fuss….
Eleanor has never paid attention to what society expects of her and when on one fated day she crosses paths (and much more) with a member of the notorious female-led gang the Forty Elephants, she believes there may be a different life for her where women wear diamonds, drink copious amounts of champagne and gin, all while looking a million dollars, who simply take without asking, but she must be careful as her new self starts to overtake Eleanor, she will have to remember what truly matters to her, and weigh up all that she could potentially lose for she now has a new mantra to follow; serve, marry - or steal.
Poor Girls is a thrilling, funny, gritty romp through the roaring twenties which is compelling and oh-so binge-worthy!
The year is 1922, and Twenty-year-old Eleanor Mackridge cannot help but be completely aghast and horrified by what her future has in store for her - to serve the upper classes, cater to their every whim and need, no matter how fanciful or childish or she could always marry a man hopefully kind enough to perhaps listen to her once in a while. That is the extend of all she can ever hope for.
Eleanor ‘proved useful’ working in a busy munitions factory during the war - she was actually handling explosives for goodness sake! - but now, society is returning to normality and as a woman she must remember her place and not make a fuss….
Eleanor has never paid attention to what society expects of her and when on one fated day she crosses paths (and much more) with a member of the notorious female-led gang the Forty Elephants, she believes there may be a different life for her where women wear diamonds, drink copious amounts of champagne and gin, all while looking a million dollars, who simply take without asking, but she must be careful as her new self starts to overtake Eleanor, she will have to remember what truly matters to her, and weigh up all that she could potentially lose for she now has a new mantra to follow; serve, marry - or steal.
Poor Girls is a thrilling, funny, gritty romp through the roaring twenties which is compelling and oh-so binge-worthy!
August 17, 2024
I absolutely adored this book. I love books which are based on real life & especially stories about the forty thieves/forty elephants.
It's 1922 and Eleanor, after a stint working in the munitions factory during the war doesn't want to serve or marry but instead make her own way in the world. At home in Brighton she crosses paths with someone connected to the Forty Elephants, the real life all woman gang of thieves who operate in London and the south coast, she feels a spark, an awakening..
She changes her name to Nell and moves to London to become part of a cell of women who steal. I absolutely devoured this book which has been meticulously researched. I loved the characters including real life ones. Fabulous 5*
It's 1922 and Eleanor, after a stint working in the munitions factory during the war doesn't want to serve or marry but instead make her own way in the world. At home in Brighton she crosses paths with someone connected to the Forty Elephants, the real life all woman gang of thieves who operate in London and the south coast, she feels a spark, an awakening..
She changes her name to Nell and moves to London to become part of a cell of women who steal. I absolutely devoured this book which has been meticulously researched. I loved the characters including real life ones. Fabulous 5*
January 30, 2025
Ehhh. How could a book have so much happening yet be so boring?
A few funny lines
A few funny lines
August 5, 2024
In the last few days I found myself transported back in time to the glittering yet gritty world of 1920s London. Clare Whitfield’s Poor Girls is a rollicking romp through the jazz age, following the bold and brazen Nell as she trades her mundane life for the intoxicating allure of thievery with the infamous Forty Elephants gang. Think Ocean's Eight, but with flapper dresses and a dash of Downton Abbey drama.
"Think like a man and do what a man would do."
Elenore, our intrepid protagonist, transforms into Nell—a woman who finds freedom and excitement in a life of crime. And oh, what crimes they are! With her newfound partners in plunder—Effie, Lily, and Charlie—Nell learns the art of the heist. These ladies don’t just shoplift; they elevate it to an art form, swiping everything from luxurious furs to sparkling diamonds with a flair that would make even the most seasoned con artist blush.
Effie, unpredictable and wild, is the beating heart of their operation, bringing a sense of danger and thrill that keeps you turning the pages. Lily, with her sharp wit and charm, navigates the societal norms they flaunt so daringly, while Charlie, the quiet mastermind, ensures their escapades are as successful as they are audacious.
But Poor Girls isn’t just about the thefts; it’s about the women behind them. Whitfield crafts a narrative that delves into their desires, fears, and the unbreakable bond they share. These are not just criminals; they are complex, compelling characters whose stories are as richly textured as the stolen goods they covet.
"The British papers portrayed them as stupid, feckless, feeble minded and the molls of bad men. The American ones portrayed them as dangerous, beautiful and romantic. Both were disappointing. One version to be fucked, the other burned at the stake. It might be nice to occupy somewhere in the middle on occasion, as if they were the same species as men."
As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but wonder: in a world that often feels like it's rigged against us, is there a little bit of Nell in all of us? Are we all searching for that thrilling escape from the ordinary, the chance to rewrite our own stories?
So, dear readers, if you're looking to inject a little excitement into your summer reading list, look no further than Poor Girls. It’s a dazzling dance through a bygone era, full of heart, hustle, and a healthy dose of rebellion. And remember, sometimes the greatest treasures aren’t the ones you steal—they’re the ones you discover within yourself.
Until next time, keep your friends close, your diamonds closer, and never underestimate the power of a good heist.
"Think like a man and do what a man would do."
Elenore, our intrepid protagonist, transforms into Nell—a woman who finds freedom and excitement in a life of crime. And oh, what crimes they are! With her newfound partners in plunder—Effie, Lily, and Charlie—Nell learns the art of the heist. These ladies don’t just shoplift; they elevate it to an art form, swiping everything from luxurious furs to sparkling diamonds with a flair that would make even the most seasoned con artist blush.
Effie, unpredictable and wild, is the beating heart of their operation, bringing a sense of danger and thrill that keeps you turning the pages. Lily, with her sharp wit and charm, navigates the societal norms they flaunt so daringly, while Charlie, the quiet mastermind, ensures their escapades are as successful as they are audacious.
But Poor Girls isn’t just about the thefts; it’s about the women behind them. Whitfield crafts a narrative that delves into their desires, fears, and the unbreakable bond they share. These are not just criminals; they are complex, compelling characters whose stories are as richly textured as the stolen goods they covet.
"The British papers portrayed them as stupid, feckless, feeble minded and the molls of bad men. The American ones portrayed them as dangerous, beautiful and romantic. Both were disappointing. One version to be fucked, the other burned at the stake. It might be nice to occupy somewhere in the middle on occasion, as if they were the same species as men."
As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but wonder: in a world that often feels like it's rigged against us, is there a little bit of Nell in all of us? Are we all searching for that thrilling escape from the ordinary, the chance to rewrite our own stories?
So, dear readers, if you're looking to inject a little excitement into your summer reading list, look no further than Poor Girls. It’s a dazzling dance through a bygone era, full of heart, hustle, and a healthy dose of rebellion. And remember, sometimes the greatest treasures aren’t the ones you steal—they’re the ones you discover within yourself.
Until next time, keep your friends close, your diamonds closer, and never underestimate the power of a good heist.
March 23, 2025
This was absolutely ace!!!
This delicious novel lets us sneak a peek into the criminal underbelly of 1920s London where an all female gangster group go all peaky blinders on our asses!! ....
20 year old Eleanor Mackridge is spirited, gutsy, and also a waitress in Brighton, living an unfulling life. Through a few chance encounters with a handsome stranger, she gets offered the chance to join the Forty Elephants... and become Nell the Mack!
Let me tell you about The Forty Elephants 🐘....This real life all-women working-class gang ran a huge, slickly organised shoplifting operation from south London between the 1870s and 1950s, they’d dress like film stars in furs and expensive jewellery then steal items from department stores to sell for a profit. They lived hard and fast. For this gang of expert ‘hoisters’, life was a revolving door of heists, prison sentences, and lavish spending. Stealing was a route out of poverty!
I defy you not to fall down the deepest of rabbit holes on Google after reading this story!! I've had a wonderful time reading up on Alice Diamond (pic 4) real person and one time head of the Forty Elephants
Like with her previous book "People of Abandoned Character," the author takes a fascinating true part of history and puts her own fabulous fictional spin on it.
Absolutely tip-top
This delicious novel lets us sneak a peek into the criminal underbelly of 1920s London where an all female gangster group go all peaky blinders on our asses!! ....
20 year old Eleanor Mackridge is spirited, gutsy, and also a waitress in Brighton, living an unfulling life. Through a few chance encounters with a handsome stranger, she gets offered the chance to join the Forty Elephants... and become Nell the Mack!
Let me tell you about The Forty Elephants 🐘....This real life all-women working-class gang ran a huge, slickly organised shoplifting operation from south London between the 1870s and 1950s, they’d dress like film stars in furs and expensive jewellery then steal items from department stores to sell for a profit. They lived hard and fast. For this gang of expert ‘hoisters’, life was a revolving door of heists, prison sentences, and lavish spending. Stealing was a route out of poverty!
I defy you not to fall down the deepest of rabbit holes on Google after reading this story!! I've had a wonderful time reading up on Alice Diamond (pic 4) real person and one time head of the Forty Elephants
Like with her previous book "People of Abandoned Character," the author takes a fascinating true part of history and puts her own fabulous fictional spin on it.
Absolutely tip-top
November 14, 2024
Based on the real all female crime gang, the Forty Elephants, from 1920s London, we follow Nell, a young 19-year-old working class woman from Brighton working as a waitress serving the snobbish upper class.
Nell can’t resist when the opportunity comes to move to London and join the infamous gang, always seeking a new adventure.
This story was fascinating from the start. The way the glitz and glamour of gang life entwined and clashed with the dark gritty underbelly of 1920s London was cleverly written.
I absolutely adored the sisterhood and found family vibes between Nell and her ‘cell’; the group of girls who operated and worked together as one. Each character was fascinating and I loved how many of them were got to meet. The girls were unique, colourful and complex, each bringing something different to the plot. I was particularly fascinated by how they learnt the tricks of the trade, from how they stole clothes from department stores and jewels from the jewellers.
Overall, this was a fun and wicked story. I really enjoyed the writing style and characters, and I was hooked throughout. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this and I would highly recommend for historical fiction fans.
October 3, 2024
Poor Girls isn’t my usual go to for reads, historical fiction doesn’t always tend to leap out at me but I felt like getting out of my comfort zone a little because I love a mystery thriller. I listened to this as an audiobook, only my second sent to me for review, I thoroughly enjoyed this.
Poor Girls dives into the criminal underbelly of London the 1920s. It’s something I’ve never quite considered how single working class women may have ever been involved in this. Everything I’ve seen on TV and film always focuses around men and honestly found this story absolutely fascinating.
Whitfield captures a great fast paced story following Eleanor Mackridge who joins a notorious female led criminal gang “the forty Elephants”. I found this to be funny, charming and above all else thrilling at the twist and turns. I’m not sure I should have loved the characters in this book given some of the absolutely depraved things they get up to, but you really do feel the eat the rich message the women are living by. A fantastic twist, that honestly I’m not sure I really saw all of this coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and head of Zeus audiobooks for this ELC in exchange for an honest review.
Poor Girls dives into the criminal underbelly of London the 1920s. It’s something I’ve never quite considered how single working class women may have ever been involved in this. Everything I’ve seen on TV and film always focuses around men and honestly found this story absolutely fascinating.
Whitfield captures a great fast paced story following Eleanor Mackridge who joins a notorious female led criminal gang “the forty Elephants”. I found this to be funny, charming and above all else thrilling at the twist and turns. I’m not sure I should have loved the characters in this book given some of the absolutely depraved things they get up to, but you really do feel the eat the rich message the women are living by. A fantastic twist, that honestly I’m not sure I really saw all of this coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and head of Zeus audiobooks for this ELC in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2024
It's 1922 and Eleanor has, quite simply, had enough! Having worked hard for her country during the war, in a munitions factory, Eleanor is finding the adjustment back to "normal" society difficult to take. Working as a waitress in a high end hotel in Brighton, Eleanor snaps after one too many high society ladies complains that the cake is dry, the tea is cold, and the sandwiches are stale!
When Eleanor discovers the Forty Elephants, a notorious criminal gang, she realises this is her chance. She can either settle for marriage, or take control of her own destiny and surround herself with luxury, albeit luxury she has to steal!
The characters are great and the story feels like an authentic portrayal of the time, with some wicked humour balancing the slightly depressing options for young women in society.
Fantastic narration by Jenny Bede brought this wonderful characters to life.
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Clare Whitfield and Head of Zeus, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
When Eleanor discovers the Forty Elephants, a notorious criminal gang, she realises this is her chance. She can either settle for marriage, or take control of her own destiny and surround herself with luxury, albeit luxury she has to steal!
The characters are great and the story feels like an authentic portrayal of the time, with some wicked humour balancing the slightly depressing options for young women in society.
Fantastic narration by Jenny Bede brought this wonderful characters to life.
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Clare Whitfield and Head of Zeus, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
October 13, 2024
WWI has ended and Eleanor, who spent the war working in a munitions factory, finds herself facing a life she doesn’t want. She’s waitressing in a hotel, with little to look forward to besides a life of menial service jobs or marriage.
Life changes when Eleanor finds herself swept up into the Forty Elephants, a network of female thieves in London.
The pacing is fast, the characters are well written, and I enjoyed Eleanor’s transformation from meek(ish) waitress to bold thief. The descriptions of the girls’ tricks and how they ran their operation were interesting, and the plot was gripping.
I had no idea until the afterword that the Forty Elephants were a real gang and some of the book’s characters were real people. That brought a whole new element to the book.
I flew through Poor Girls, didn’t want to put it down. Oh, and I’ve learned a new use for Fisherman’s Friends…
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Life changes when Eleanor finds herself swept up into the Forty Elephants, a network of female thieves in London.
The pacing is fast, the characters are well written, and I enjoyed Eleanor’s transformation from meek(ish) waitress to bold thief. The descriptions of the girls’ tricks and how they ran their operation were interesting, and the plot was gripping.
I had no idea until the afterword that the Forty Elephants were a real gang and some of the book’s characters were real people. That brought a whole new element to the book.
I flew through Poor Girls, didn’t want to put it down. Oh, and I’ve learned a new use for Fisherman’s Friends…
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 15, 2024
1922. Twenty-four-year-old Eleanor Mackridge aka Nell is horrified by the future mapped out for her – to serve the upper classes or find a husband. During the war, she found freedom in joining the workforce at home, but now women are being put back in their place.
Until Eleanor crosses paths with a member of the notorious female-led gang the Forty Elephants: bold women who wear diamonds and fur, drink champagne and gin, who take what they want without asking. Now, she sees a new future for herself: she can serve, marry – or steal.
I really like the main protagonist Nell despite her criminality. Unlike the majority of her Forty Elephants colleagues she wasn't from a family who were involved in crime so I felt she brought a different dynamic to the group.
I knew nothing about the Forty Elephants before reading this book.
The book definitely portrays the themes of the times well.
Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the advanced copy.
Until Eleanor crosses paths with a member of the notorious female-led gang the Forty Elephants: bold women who wear diamonds and fur, drink champagne and gin, who take what they want without asking. Now, she sees a new future for herself: she can serve, marry – or steal.
I really like the main protagonist Nell despite her criminality. Unlike the majority of her Forty Elephants colleagues she wasn't from a family who were involved in crime so I felt she brought a different dynamic to the group.
I knew nothing about the Forty Elephants before reading this book.
The book definitely portrays the themes of the times well.
Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the advanced copy.
March 19, 2025
Fun setting and rather complex characters — and some shocking scenes that I didn’t expect from historical fiction! I would love to see this as a mini series.
August 20, 2025
Set in the 1920’s….story of female thieves in the notorious Forty Elephant gang!
May 14, 2025
A deeply grounded story of one young woman's journey into the world of the Forty Elephants - the notorious gang of female thieves that ransacked London in the 1920s. With dark humour, we see how Eleanor transforms into "Machete Mack" - and her anxieties and struggles along that journey. it wears it's themes on its sleeves and speaks candidly about the frustration and humiliation of working-class womanhood in the era, but is slightly let down by the momentum of the plot; which veers from cocaine-fast to indolent across the scope of the novel.
September 7, 2025
This was a pretty fun read. The ending got pretty outrageous though - it felt almost comical, but then there were some really moving and almost disturbing moments in other parts of the book so the vibe was a little all over the place. I enjoyed it though!
May 8, 2025
non so bene cosa dire… è iniziato benissimo e poi per 300 pagine è stato il disastro più noioso che io abbia mai letto? mi dispiace perché l’idea mi aveva gasato moltissimo
September 30, 2024
"Poor Girls" by Clare Whitfield is very fast paced women's fiction that makes you feel like you are living among the group of thieves. Great narrative and fabulous characters. This book will make you laugh but also shed a tear. The only disappointing thing was that it ended. I'm hoping that there will be another part as I would love to follow the story and secretly hoping for happy ever after with that cheeky policeman..
Great light read
I've received the early copy of the book from Netgalley which I am extremely grateful for
Great light read
I've received the early copy of the book from Netgalley which I am extremely grateful for
December 31, 2024
Eleanor Mackridge, a 20-year-old woman, is appalled by the conventional future laid out for her: to either serve the upper classes or secure a husband. Having worked in a munitions factory during the war, handling explosives, she now finds herself in a society eager to revert to traditional gender roles, relegating women to their former positions. However, Eleanor has always defied societal expectations. When she encounters a member of the infamous female-led gang, the Forty Elephants, she is captivated by these audacious women who adorn themselves in diamonds and fur, indulge in champagne and gin, and take what they desire without seeking permission. She begins to envision a new future for herself—one where she can choose to serve, marry, or steal.
Contrary to the adage that blood is thicker than water, Nell believed otherwise. For her, money was the only reliable constant, and diamonds were even more so. Yet, it wasn't the wealth that enticed her; it was the excitement, the sense of purpose, the camaraderie, and the thrill that she craved.
After a difficult decision and a poignant farewell to her family, the journey back to London became a painful transformation. Eleanor Mackridge ceased to exist along the way, metaphorically killed by Machete Mack. In her place emerged Nell the Mack. The old Eleanor, too delicate for this harsh world, had not foreseen this metamorphosis, but it was ultimately for the best. Rest in peace, Eleanor Mackridge. Long live Nell the Mack.
Throughout the narrative, we encounter a host of vibrant characters—brave, liberated women who, by societal standards, appear to take the easier path. The writing style immediately engages the reader, and the novel is replete with action and tension, culminating in an ending that complements the story's rhythm.
This book is both fascinating and challenging, as some characters are inspired by real individuals. It is crucial to approach their portrayal with respect and accuracy. The story is based on extensive research into the real women of the Forty Elephants and explores a frequently overlooked period in our history, between the two world wars.
These women's stories offer profound insights into the socio-economic landscape of their time. Their narratives are significant, authentic, complex, and warrant being heard. It is essential to consider all individuals, regardless of their background or status, with empathy and compassion, as well as a critical eye, in our collective history.
Contrary to the adage that blood is thicker than water, Nell believed otherwise. For her, money was the only reliable constant, and diamonds were even more so. Yet, it wasn't the wealth that enticed her; it was the excitement, the sense of purpose, the camaraderie, and the thrill that she craved.
After a difficult decision and a poignant farewell to her family, the journey back to London became a painful transformation. Eleanor Mackridge ceased to exist along the way, metaphorically killed by Machete Mack. In her place emerged Nell the Mack. The old Eleanor, too delicate for this harsh world, had not foreseen this metamorphosis, but it was ultimately for the best. Rest in peace, Eleanor Mackridge. Long live Nell the Mack.
Throughout the narrative, we encounter a host of vibrant characters—brave, liberated women who, by societal standards, appear to take the easier path. The writing style immediately engages the reader, and the novel is replete with action and tension, culminating in an ending that complements the story's rhythm.
This book is both fascinating and challenging, as some characters are inspired by real individuals. It is crucial to approach their portrayal with respect and accuracy. The story is based on extensive research into the real women of the Forty Elephants and explores a frequently overlooked period in our history, between the two world wars.
These women's stories offer profound insights into the socio-economic landscape of their time. Their narratives are significant, authentic, complex, and warrant being heard. It is essential to consider all individuals, regardless of their background or status, with empathy and compassion, as well as a critical eye, in our collective history.
October 1, 2024
Eleanor Mackridge is living with her parents in Brighton and during the war working in a munitions factory assembling explosives, not glamorous but a girl has to do what she has to do to get by. After the conclusion of the war the best Eleanor could hope for is a successful marriage, this was not of great appeal to her. Looking for more, Eleanor comes involved with the Forty Elephants, a band of women thieves who are living life on the edge. Eleanor soon takes on the name of Nell and with her new colleagues Effie, Lily and Charlie embark on a dangerous path, but one that does result in riches and wealth. They soon became well known and to many a mysterious group who are both respected and revered.
I absolutely loved this book and found myself thoroughly wrapped up in the story. The characters are what make it so good, and the author has done a wonderful job in presenting them to us, showing how strong friendships can allow us all to get through chaotic times in life no matter who we are or what our circumstances.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
I absolutely loved this book and found myself thoroughly wrapped up in the story. The characters are what make it so good, and the author has done a wonderful job in presenting them to us, showing how strong friendships can allow us all to get through chaotic times in life no matter who we are or what our circumstances.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
October 5, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel set in 1920s England, centred around the fascinating true story of the Forty Elephants, a female-led crime gang. Although historical fiction isn’t usually my go-to genre, the intriguing premise immediately grabbed my attention, and the book kept me hooked from start to finish. Nell's character was a standout—strong and resilient, yet grounded by her own moral compass.
However, my one major critique is that Charlie and Lily's characters felt too alike at times, making it hard to distinguish between them. Additionally, the transitions between scenes could have been smoother, as some felt disjointed, affecting the overall flow.
Ultimately, an excellent historical fiction novel that I would highly recommend to fans of shows like Peaky Blinders.
Happy reading x
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel set in 1920s England, centred around the fascinating true story of the Forty Elephants, a female-led crime gang. Although historical fiction isn’t usually my go-to genre, the intriguing premise immediately grabbed my attention, and the book kept me hooked from start to finish. Nell's character was a standout—strong and resilient, yet grounded by her own moral compass.
However, my one major critique is that Charlie and Lily's characters felt too alike at times, making it hard to distinguish between them. Additionally, the transitions between scenes could have been smoother, as some felt disjointed, affecting the overall flow.
Ultimately, an excellent historical fiction novel that I would highly recommend to fans of shows like Peaky Blinders.
Happy reading x
January 9, 2026
Eleanor, working in one of Brighton's biggest tea rooms, is sick and tired of being patronised, ordered around, humiliated, and all of it for a very much less than living wage. She loved her work in the shell factory during the war but like every other woman was sacked when the war was over. Now she's finding it almost impossible to slot back into the place pre-war allotted her. Surely there's more to life?
Like the author Clare Whitfield, I find this period in British history fascinating (no coincidence that I had read nearly all of the books she listed in her reading list at the end). I have also come across the women's gang, The Forty Thieves, both in a previous book I've written where they had a role (much earlier, late Victorian) and also in Kate Atkinson's amazing book, Shrine of Gayeties, which was set in the same period as this.
So I was really looking forward to this book, and in most ways, I wasn't disappointed. It set the scenes brilliantly. The characters, the ambiance, both in Brighton and in London, were so well done you felt like you were watching a film. And of course, regardless of the morality of what Nell and her friends got up to, you were on their side. What also worked was that the book showed what it was like behind the gloss of the life-style, the compromises and the price to be paid - Holloway, usually, but not only. Because Nell and her friends were way down the pecking order. They made a good living, but so many people up the pecking order made more. Which, eventually, led to the denouement. I'm not going to say what that was, but this was one of the things that dragged me out of the story, because it felt way over the top, and unlike the rest of the story, way too unbelievable.
The other issue I had was the way the narrative was told. We had a sort of third party narrator giving us context - historical and social. It was great context, and very relevant, but the way it was told sort of jarred, especially with me at first - another thing that made me jump out of the story. It read like a (good) historian had walked onto the stage and started talking while the characters were frozen, then they walked off and the action began. By the end of the book I had got used to it, but it still jarred for me, despite the fact that it interested me too - and maybe that's the issue, it was like two books blended together.
On saying that, I really enjoyed this story, which was a romp with a great deal of darkness and a lot of social realism. The ending seems to set up for another book, and if that's the case I'll definitely buy it. And I've already bought another by the author, who was new to me. I'm glad I found her.
Like the author Clare Whitfield, I find this period in British history fascinating (no coincidence that I had read nearly all of the books she listed in her reading list at the end). I have also come across the women's gang, The Forty Thieves, both in a previous book I've written where they had a role (much earlier, late Victorian) and also in Kate Atkinson's amazing book, Shrine of Gayeties, which was set in the same period as this.
So I was really looking forward to this book, and in most ways, I wasn't disappointed. It set the scenes brilliantly. The characters, the ambiance, both in Brighton and in London, were so well done you felt like you were watching a film. And of course, regardless of the morality of what Nell and her friends got up to, you were on their side. What also worked was that the book showed what it was like behind the gloss of the life-style, the compromises and the price to be paid - Holloway, usually, but not only. Because Nell and her friends were way down the pecking order. They made a good living, but so many people up the pecking order made more. Which, eventually, led to the denouement. I'm not going to say what that was, but this was one of the things that dragged me out of the story, because it felt way over the top, and unlike the rest of the story, way too unbelievable.
The other issue I had was the way the narrative was told. We had a sort of third party narrator giving us context - historical and social. It was great context, and very relevant, but the way it was told sort of jarred, especially with me at first - another thing that made me jump out of the story. It read like a (good) historian had walked onto the stage and started talking while the characters were frozen, then they walked off and the action began. By the end of the book I had got used to it, but it still jarred for me, despite the fact that it interested me too - and maybe that's the issue, it was like two books blended together.
On saying that, I really enjoyed this story, which was a romp with a great deal of darkness and a lot of social realism. The ending seems to set up for another book, and if that's the case I'll definitely buy it. And I've already bought another by the author, who was new to me. I'm glad I found her.
December 6, 2024
It’s 1922 and Eleanor Mackridge, like many women, is finding it difficult to adjust to ‘normal life’ now that the war has ended. Compared to working in a munitions factory and feeling that she was doing something important for her country, her new job waitressing at a Brighton hotel is dull and boring. Marriage could offer an escape route, but that doesn’t sound very appealing either, so when Eleanor crosses paths with a member of the all-female crime gang, the Forty Elephants, the temptation to join them is too strong to resist.
Now known as Nell, she moves to London where she is assigned to a cell – a group of four gang members who live and work together – and begins her education in the art of theft. Soon she knows how to steal expensive furs and jewels from London’s grandest department stores, how to conceal her loot in hidden pockets and, most importantly, how to avoid being arrested. Although her conscience troubles her at first, she soon learns to love her new life and her new friends. But what will Nell’s family say when they discover what she is doing? And what will happen if her luck runs out and she gets caught?
Poor Girls is an enjoyable, fast paced novel rooted in historical fact. I wasn’t aware until I finished the book and read the author’s note that the Forty Elephants really existed (the name comes from the Elephant and Castle area of London, where they were based). Although the gang leader, Alice Diamond – known as Queen Alice – was a real person, Nell Mackridge seems to be a fictional character. However, through the stories of Nell and her friends, Whitfield explores some of the factors that may have driven young women like them to turn to a life of crime.
It was fascinating to see how the gang operated and to watch Nell learning all the tricks of the trade – all the cons, deceptions and disguises she needed to be able to avoid detection. Interestingly, women had an advantage when it came to shoplifting as store security were reluctant to stop and search female customers. Also, all those layers of clothing they wore were useful for hiding stolen goods! The success of their operations depended on working together as a team, so trust was necessary between the members of each cell and Nell formed strong bonds with Effie, Lily and Charlie, her partners in crime.
I did have one or two minor criticisms of the book: I felt that the characters of Nell’s three friends could have been more clearly defined – Charlie and Lily, in particular, seemed interchangeable – and there were times when the language felt more 2020s than 1920s. Otherwise, this was a very entertaining novel with a plot unlike any other I’ve read. I also liked the fact that, although crime is obviously not something we should admire or find glamorous and Whitfield does make the consequences clear, at the same time she isn’t trying to push a moral message onto the reader. The ending of the book isn’t quite what you would expect either, but it’s probably more realistic that way.
I really enjoyed this and would also like to read Clare Whitfield’s earlier novel, People of Abandoned Character.
Thanks to the publisher for making this book available for review through The Pigeonhole.
Now known as Nell, she moves to London where she is assigned to a cell – a group of four gang members who live and work together – and begins her education in the art of theft. Soon she knows how to steal expensive furs and jewels from London’s grandest department stores, how to conceal her loot in hidden pockets and, most importantly, how to avoid being arrested. Although her conscience troubles her at first, she soon learns to love her new life and her new friends. But what will Nell’s family say when they discover what she is doing? And what will happen if her luck runs out and she gets caught?
Poor Girls is an enjoyable, fast paced novel rooted in historical fact. I wasn’t aware until I finished the book and read the author’s note that the Forty Elephants really existed (the name comes from the Elephant and Castle area of London, where they were based). Although the gang leader, Alice Diamond – known as Queen Alice – was a real person, Nell Mackridge seems to be a fictional character. However, through the stories of Nell and her friends, Whitfield explores some of the factors that may have driven young women like them to turn to a life of crime.
It was fascinating to see how the gang operated and to watch Nell learning all the tricks of the trade – all the cons, deceptions and disguises she needed to be able to avoid detection. Interestingly, women had an advantage when it came to shoplifting as store security were reluctant to stop and search female customers. Also, all those layers of clothing they wore were useful for hiding stolen goods! The success of their operations depended on working together as a team, so trust was necessary between the members of each cell and Nell formed strong bonds with Effie, Lily and Charlie, her partners in crime.
I did have one or two minor criticisms of the book: I felt that the characters of Nell’s three friends could have been more clearly defined – Charlie and Lily, in particular, seemed interchangeable – and there were times when the language felt more 2020s than 1920s. Otherwise, this was a very entertaining novel with a plot unlike any other I’ve read. I also liked the fact that, although crime is obviously not something we should admire or find glamorous and Whitfield does make the consequences clear, at the same time she isn’t trying to push a moral message onto the reader. The ending of the book isn’t quite what you would expect either, but it’s probably more realistic that way.
I really enjoyed this and would also like to read Clare Whitfield’s earlier novel, People of Abandoned Character.
Thanks to the publisher for making this book available for review through The Pigeonhole.
October 31, 2024
Poor Girls by Clare Whitfield transports readers to the gritty, glamorous world of post-WWI England, where Eleanor “Nell” Mackridge finds her way from a dreary existence in Brighton to the enticing, dangerous streets of London. Set in the 1920s, the story introduces us to the notorious Forty Elephants, an all-female gang known for their high-profile heists and rebellious defiance of societal norms. When Nell meets a mysterious young man who later connects her to the group, she’s offered an escape from her mundane life as a waitress—and a chance to taste freedom and luxury.
Character Development and Themes
Whitfield crafts a relatable, multi-dimensional protagonist in Nell, a young woman seeking something beyond the limitations society imposes. Her evolving relationship with her new friends—strong-willed women like Charlie, Lily, and Effie—reveals her growing sense of agency and camaraderie within the gang. Nell’s struggle with the thrill of criminality versus her aversion to violence grounds her in realism, making her a sympathetic and intriguing character.
Historical Setting and Social Commentary
The novel brilliantly captures the despair and resilience of the working-class women of the time. The post-war era is depicted with vivid accuracy, from the desperate need for financial security to the allure of a champagne lifestyle. Whitfield's portrayal of women in the 1920s—forced back into oppressive roles after glimpsing freedom in wartime jobs—adds depth to the motivations of the Forty Elephants. The historical details about fashion, social customs, and London’s criminal underworld create an immersive setting.
Final Thoughts
Fast-paced and filled with fascinating details, Poor Girls offers readers a fresh perspective on an all-female gang history has largely forgotten. While the narrative occasionally jumps in time, Whitfield's storytelling keeps readers hooked. Poor Girls is an enjoyable, insightful read that balances suspense, historical intrigue, and the bittersweet realities faced by women defying society's expectations.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aria & Aries, and Clare Whitfield for the opportunity to read and review this fascinating piece of historical fiction. Highly recommended for fans of both historical fiction and crime stories!
Character Development and Themes
Whitfield crafts a relatable, multi-dimensional protagonist in Nell, a young woman seeking something beyond the limitations society imposes. Her evolving relationship with her new friends—strong-willed women like Charlie, Lily, and Effie—reveals her growing sense of agency and camaraderie within the gang. Nell’s struggle with the thrill of criminality versus her aversion to violence grounds her in realism, making her a sympathetic and intriguing character.
Historical Setting and Social Commentary
The novel brilliantly captures the despair and resilience of the working-class women of the time. The post-war era is depicted with vivid accuracy, from the desperate need for financial security to the allure of a champagne lifestyle. Whitfield's portrayal of women in the 1920s—forced back into oppressive roles after glimpsing freedom in wartime jobs—adds depth to the motivations of the Forty Elephants. The historical details about fashion, social customs, and London’s criminal underworld create an immersive setting.
Final Thoughts
Fast-paced and filled with fascinating details, Poor Girls offers readers a fresh perspective on an all-female gang history has largely forgotten. While the narrative occasionally jumps in time, Whitfield's storytelling keeps readers hooked. Poor Girls is an enjoyable, insightful read that balances suspense, historical intrigue, and the bittersweet realities faced by women defying society's expectations.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aria & Aries, and Clare Whitfield for the opportunity to read and review this fascinating piece of historical fiction. Highly recommended for fans of both historical fiction and crime stories!
November 7, 2024
Where to start? I absolutely loved this book, a piece of historical fiction set in the 1920’s taking a real gang and creating some unforgettable fictional characters. The story was highly addictive and I simply couldn’t stop listening, I just had to know what happened to each and every character.
The book itself is a fairly fast paced story of a young lady who wants so much more from her current life. Like so many other girls of the time Eleanor has found herself back in a mundane unfulfilling job after having experience the excitement of a job in a munitions factory during World War 1. After finally having enough of her current waitressing job Eleanor heads to London and into a notorious London gang - the Forty Elephants.
The author does a fantastic job of making the characters felt so real and you really get to know them as individuals as well as part of the “cell”. Whilst you probably shouldn’t like the girls due to some of their antics, it’s really hard not to like them. I am sure most who read this book will develop a favourite, I have to say mine was Effie. Her inability to engage her brain before her mouth leads to some great one liners.
The detail in the story is so on point as the author encapsulates the era to perfection, not only with the huge disparity between the classes but also between the sexes. The period details really make you feel like you are transported back to the 1920’s, and all adds to the sense of realism that this novel creates. I really liked that this was a seamless blend of fiction and non fiction, as whilst the story is fiction the author has used the real gang - The Forty Elephants.
This book is 100% an experience not just a read.
I listened to the audio version of this story and the narration was one I did enjoy. I have listened to hundreds and hundreds of audiobooks and whilst I haven’t listened to the narrator before I do hope I will in the future. Quite often I have to have narration on 1.2 or 1.5 but this was great on 1. I did struggle a little at first as her differentiation between with girls was only slight but once you have heard each one a few times you could desperate them fairly ok.
Thank you to the head of Zeus audiobooks for this ELC in exchange for an honest review.
The book itself is a fairly fast paced story of a young lady who wants so much more from her current life. Like so many other girls of the time Eleanor has found herself back in a mundane unfulfilling job after having experience the excitement of a job in a munitions factory during World War 1. After finally having enough of her current waitressing job Eleanor heads to London and into a notorious London gang - the Forty Elephants.
The author does a fantastic job of making the characters felt so real and you really get to know them as individuals as well as part of the “cell”. Whilst you probably shouldn’t like the girls due to some of their antics, it’s really hard not to like them. I am sure most who read this book will develop a favourite, I have to say mine was Effie. Her inability to engage her brain before her mouth leads to some great one liners.
The detail in the story is so on point as the author encapsulates the era to perfection, not only with the huge disparity between the classes but also between the sexes. The period details really make you feel like you are transported back to the 1920’s, and all adds to the sense of realism that this novel creates. I really liked that this was a seamless blend of fiction and non fiction, as whilst the story is fiction the author has used the real gang - The Forty Elephants.
This book is 100% an experience not just a read.
I listened to the audio version of this story and the narration was one I did enjoy. I have listened to hundreds and hundreds of audiobooks and whilst I haven’t listened to the narrator before I do hope I will in the future. Quite often I have to have narration on 1.2 or 1.5 but this was great on 1. I did struggle a little at first as her differentiation between with girls was only slight but once you have heard each one a few times you could desperate them fairly ok.
Thank you to the head of Zeus audiobooks for this ELC in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2024
Set in post WWI Britain this story follows strong willed 20 year old Eleanor Mackridge from a dreary life in Brighton to the excitement of London. Eleanor is living with her family in Brighton in poor cramped conditions and working in The Grand hotel as a waitress but she has always wanted more and when she meets a woman who invites her to move to London and join the notorious Forty Elephants, a group of all female thieves, her life is about to change. Against the wishes of her family, in particular her French mother, Eleanor moves to London and reinvents herself as Nell. Based loosely on the real women of the Forty Elephants with fictional characters added this has clearly been well researched.
Briefly, moved into a flat with three other women Nell is schooled in the art of stealing from shops as part of a group working together. The girls are controlled by the more senior women in the group, led by Alice Diamond, Queen of the Forty Elephants. Transported into a life full of excitement and danger Nell relishes the glitz and glamour of the bars and nightclubs but she is reluctant to be involved in any violence. Her bubble bursts a bit when one of her friends is arrested and she narrowly escape a similar fate. But there is worse to come..
Despite her bravado Eleanor/Nell is a bit naive. She cares for her friends but seems to think nothing really bad can happen to her. She is rather blinded by the luxurious lifestyle - the furs, clothes, diamonds, the champagne lifestyle and the thrill of the chase. Some great female characters, I particularly liked Jay but, aside from Eleanor’s father, the men in this book are all rather selfish and unpleasant, which I’m sure is intentional, but it would be good to have a good man in the mix. I think that the real life for these women was probably a lot more dangerous and less glamorous than portrayed. A compelling read, I finished it in one sitting apart from a lunch break, and I for one will never buy Fisherman’s Friends again! A fast paced, very enjoyable and entertaining historical fiction read.
Briefly, moved into a flat with three other women Nell is schooled in the art of stealing from shops as part of a group working together. The girls are controlled by the more senior women in the group, led by Alice Diamond, Queen of the Forty Elephants. Transported into a life full of excitement and danger Nell relishes the glitz and glamour of the bars and nightclubs but she is reluctant to be involved in any violence. Her bubble bursts a bit when one of her friends is arrested and she narrowly escape a similar fate. But there is worse to come..
Despite her bravado Eleanor/Nell is a bit naive. She cares for her friends but seems to think nothing really bad can happen to her. She is rather blinded by the luxurious lifestyle - the furs, clothes, diamonds, the champagne lifestyle and the thrill of the chase. Some great female characters, I particularly liked Jay but, aside from Eleanor’s father, the men in this book are all rather selfish and unpleasant, which I’m sure is intentional, but it would be good to have a good man in the mix. I think that the real life for these women was probably a lot more dangerous and less glamorous than portrayed. A compelling read, I finished it in one sitting apart from a lunch break, and I for one will never buy Fisherman’s Friends again! A fast paced, very enjoyable and entertaining historical fiction read.
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