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The Workhouse Series #2
The Workhouse Girl
Once a workhouse girl, always a workhouse girl... Enid Hardcastle has always had a hard life, but when her family can’t make ends meet and are moved to the workhouse, it feels like things can’t get any worse.
But luckily for Enid, her friendship with local boy Jimmy gives her the strength she needs. Also from the cold, hard streets of Merthyr, Jimmy has made his name as an entrepreneur, repairing boots and hand-delivering them to the fine people of the town.
Enid has seen for herself that you can make a better life for yourself, so with Jimmy’s help, she sets about trying to save her family.
But there are even darker places than the workhouse, and as the rumour mill churns, it appears there’s an even more dangerous fate she will need to avoid…
An emotional and nostalgic historical saga that will have you turning pages, engrossed. Perfect for fans of Sheila Newberry and Lynn Johnson.
But luckily for Enid, her friendship with local boy Jimmy gives her the strength she needs. Also from the cold, hard streets of Merthyr, Jimmy has made his name as an entrepreneur, repairing boots and hand-delivering them to the fine people of the town.
Enid has seen for herself that you can make a better life for yourself, so with Jimmy’s help, she sets about trying to save her family.
But there are even darker places than the workhouse, and as the rumour mill churns, it appears there’s an even more dangerous fate she will need to avoid…
An emotional and nostalgic historical saga that will have you turning pages, engrossed. Perfect for fans of Sheila Newberry and Lynn Johnson.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
384 pages, Paperback
Published May 31, 2024
266 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Lynette Rees
41 books66 followers"My favourite author - this lady has just overtaken Catherine Cookson - I can't wait to read more!" ~ Amazon Reviewer
Lynette Rees lives in Wales and has been writing since she was a child. She's in the fortunate position of being a hybrid author - as well as independently publishing some of her novels, she's also published with Quercus Books/Hachette UK. Currently, her most popular novels with readers are: The Governess, Ada the Coster Girl, The Cobbler's Wife and The Ragged Urchin.
Lynette's historical fiction novel, 'The Workhouse Waif', hit the number one spot on the Amazon Kindle bestseller list in 'Victorian Historical Romance' during October of 2016 - it remains one of her favourite books to date. Much to her delight at the time, she was contacted by the commissioning editor of Quercus Books who had downloaded the book from Amazon Prime and loved the story so much that she devoured it all in one sitting! The Workhouse Waif was one of the first books ever enrolled on the then, new Amazon Prime Reading programme. The commissioning editor went on to offer Lynette a traditional publishing deal for that book and three others in the series which were published during 2018 and 2019.
Lynette enjoys the freedom of writing in a variety of genres including: crime fiction and contemporary romance, though her first love is historical fiction which complements her interest in local history and genealogy. When she's not writing, or even when she is writing, Lynette enjoys a glass of wine and the odd piece of chocolate as she creates stories where the characters guide her hand. She honestly has no idea how a story will turn out until the characters tell their own tales in their own unique ways.
The most important thing to Lynette is her family and her stories illustrate this with their warm characters who often show a great deal of compassion for others and the plight they find themselves in.
Praise for Lynette Rees:
The Matchgirl: "Beautifully written and imagined, this is both an entertaining story and a fascinating slice of life-changing history..." - book review - The Lancashire Post
Beneath a Sicilian Sun (retitled: Seduced by the Sicilian): "I was seeing everything described in this. This story is also very emotional and touching with everything that happens. The emotions that they feel are expressed beautifully..." - Sanfrancisco Review of Books
Lynette Rees lives in Wales and has been writing since she was a child. She's in the fortunate position of being a hybrid author - as well as independently publishing some of her novels, she's also published with Quercus Books/Hachette UK. Currently, her most popular novels with readers are: The Governess, Ada the Coster Girl, The Cobbler's Wife and The Ragged Urchin.
Lynette's historical fiction novel, 'The Workhouse Waif', hit the number one spot on the Amazon Kindle bestseller list in 'Victorian Historical Romance' during October of 2016 - it remains one of her favourite books to date. Much to her delight at the time, she was contacted by the commissioning editor of Quercus Books who had downloaded the book from Amazon Prime and loved the story so much that she devoured it all in one sitting! The Workhouse Waif was one of the first books ever enrolled on the then, new Amazon Prime Reading programme. The commissioning editor went on to offer Lynette a traditional publishing deal for that book and three others in the series which were published during 2018 and 2019.
Lynette enjoys the freedom of writing in a variety of genres including: crime fiction and contemporary romance, though her first love is historical fiction which complements her interest in local history and genealogy. When she's not writing, or even when she is writing, Lynette enjoys a glass of wine and the odd piece of chocolate as she creates stories where the characters guide her hand. She honestly has no idea how a story will turn out until the characters tell their own tales in their own unique ways.
The most important thing to Lynette is her family and her stories illustrate this with their warm characters who often show a great deal of compassion for others and the plight they find themselves in.
Praise for Lynette Rees:
The Matchgirl: "Beautifully written and imagined, this is both an entertaining story and a fascinating slice of life-changing history..." - book review - The Lancashire Post
Beneath a Sicilian Sun (retitled: Seduced by the Sicilian): "I was seeing everything described in this. This story is also very emotional and touching with everything that happens. The emotions that they feel are expressed beautifully..." - Sanfrancisco Review of Books
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 4, 2024
This delightful saga takes place alongside the first in this series
"The Winter Waif"
and tells the story of Enid Hardcastle, Betsan's friend she encounters when first venturing into the part of town called "China".
Enid and her family are forced into the workhouse and are thus separated, but Enid's story is only just beginning as she is boarded out to work in service with the Clarksons. But alas, circumstances conspired against her and she was sent back to the workhouse and then onto Cardiff, where she confided in the house mistress there who encouraged her to write to her former employer explaining what had happened.
Henceforth, the letter lead to a meeting which then lead to greater things for Enid in the form of a respectable position in a far welcoming household. She made friends and something of herself as she was promoted to upper housemaid, to whom all the other maids answered and looked to.
But life was no easy by any measure. She was separated from her family and longed for her childhood sweetheart, Jimmy Corcoran. But the one who had ruined her life was to enter it once again but this time Enid was ready for him.
A delightfully easy read, it was lovely to meet up with Enid, Jimmy, Mags and even Betsan again. I knew little of Enid's story from Betsan's in The Winter Waif" but it was good to see it expanded on so we got to know her better.
A wonderful read.
I would like to thank #LynetteRees, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheWorkhouseGirl in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Enid and her family are forced into the workhouse and are thus separated, but Enid's story is only just beginning as she is boarded out to work in service with the Clarksons. But alas, circumstances conspired against her and she was sent back to the workhouse and then onto Cardiff, where she confided in the house mistress there who encouraged her to write to her former employer explaining what had happened.
Henceforth, the letter lead to a meeting which then lead to greater things for Enid in the form of a respectable position in a far welcoming household. She made friends and something of herself as she was promoted to upper housemaid, to whom all the other maids answered and looked to.
But life was no easy by any measure. She was separated from her family and longed for her childhood sweetheart, Jimmy Corcoran. But the one who had ruined her life was to enter it once again but this time Enid was ready for him.
A delightfully easy read, it was lovely to meet up with Enid, Jimmy, Mags and even Betsan again. I knew little of Enid's story from Betsan's in The Winter Waif" but it was good to see it expanded on so we got to know her better.
A wonderful read.
I would like to thank #LynetteRees, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheWorkhouseGirl in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
July 15, 2024
Lynette Rees’s touching saga The Workhouse Girl is a dramatic, touching and emotional tale of courage, survival and love written straight from the heart.
Enid Hardcastle knows better than most just how tough life can be. Every day is a struggle for her and her family and when the bottom falls out of their world and making ends meet become impossible, the Hardcastle family find themselves in the workhouse. Despite the hardship and difficulties they endure, Enid is sure that there must be more to life than this and she is determined to do whatever it takes to get herself and her family out of this dark hole they find themselves trapped in.
Enid finds solace in her friendship with local lad, Jimmy, who like her has big dreams for the future. Jimmy has pulled himself up from his bootstraps and has made a name for himself as an entrepreneur. Inspired by him, Enid vows to fight for her family to give them the life they deserve. However, in her quest for riches, Enid must be careful because the road ahead is fraught with challenges and obstacles and if she takes one wrong turn, then she runs the risk of losing everything and everyone close to her heart.
Saga readers will be completely gripped by The Workhouse Girl. With a courageous heroine at its heart, The Workhouse Girl is a powerful tale best read with a box of tissues as Lynette Rees takes readers on an emotional journey through Victorian Wales that will hold them spellbound from the first page until the final word.
A heart-wrenching saga from a brilliant storyteller, Lynette Rees’ The Workhouse Girls is a terrific read Rosie Goodwin fans will not want to miss.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Enid Hardcastle knows better than most just how tough life can be. Every day is a struggle for her and her family and when the bottom falls out of their world and making ends meet become impossible, the Hardcastle family find themselves in the workhouse. Despite the hardship and difficulties they endure, Enid is sure that there must be more to life than this and she is determined to do whatever it takes to get herself and her family out of this dark hole they find themselves trapped in.
Enid finds solace in her friendship with local lad, Jimmy, who like her has big dreams for the future. Jimmy has pulled himself up from his bootstraps and has made a name for himself as an entrepreneur. Inspired by him, Enid vows to fight for her family to give them the life they deserve. However, in her quest for riches, Enid must be careful because the road ahead is fraught with challenges and obstacles and if she takes one wrong turn, then she runs the risk of losing everything and everyone close to her heart.
Saga readers will be completely gripped by The Workhouse Girl. With a courageous heroine at its heart, The Workhouse Girl is a powerful tale best read with a box of tissues as Lynette Rees takes readers on an emotional journey through Victorian Wales that will hold them spellbound from the first page until the final word.
A heart-wrenching saga from a brilliant storyteller, Lynette Rees’ The Workhouse Girls is a terrific read Rosie Goodwin fans will not want to miss.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 27, 2024
Book was ok not my favourite thou, ending was just cut short
March 6, 2025
Nope, not at all I expected. Light but predictable with its unfinished story. One character just disappears in the middle of story and never reappears. This character appeared to be a central character until the disappearing act.
July 22, 2024
##Netgalley #TheWorkhouseGirl
Merthyr Tydfil, Wales in 1885 and fourteen year old Enid Hardcastle was used to people calling her names because of her red hair and freckles when she was younger, she didn't like it then but now she is older she actually accepts it. But this person now calling out to her is Daniel Owen, and he's not being mean to her, quite the opposite. He lives nearby in the "China quarter." Unfortunately, Enid's family falls on hard times, and they are all admitted to the Workhouse. Only after a short while she is offered a maids position at a nearby big house. It certainly is a big house, and Enid is taken aback at the size and grandeur of it. She is introduced to all the staff, some are even younger than her, but everyone is very friendly towards her and she is grateful to be given meals and two sets of clothes. But she is warned by the butler to be aware that the youngest son of the family may take an interest in her. She is also glad to have a bed to herself, something she never had when her parents had a house. Unfortunately, Enid's life takes a turn, and she finds herself with no job until she ultimately finds a new one after contacting the owner of the previous household. The other girls from the Workhouse always seem to be in Enid's mind, and she is determined to help them out with employment, especially her friend Connie, but is she now beyond being helped?
Fans of Downton Abbey will love this historic story of life both in the Workhouse and below stairs in a big house. I found it an enchanting yet emotional read, yet a book I couldn't put down. As with other books I have read by Lynette Rees, this is surely going to be a smash hit, too. Full of friendships, and ultimately hard times leading to living in the Workhouse and then in the servants quarters of big houses. Will these young women make a life for themselves?
Merthyr Tydfil, Wales in 1885 and fourteen year old Enid Hardcastle was used to people calling her names because of her red hair and freckles when she was younger, she didn't like it then but now she is older she actually accepts it. But this person now calling out to her is Daniel Owen, and he's not being mean to her, quite the opposite. He lives nearby in the "China quarter." Unfortunately, Enid's family falls on hard times, and they are all admitted to the Workhouse. Only after a short while she is offered a maids position at a nearby big house. It certainly is a big house, and Enid is taken aback at the size and grandeur of it. She is introduced to all the staff, some are even younger than her, but everyone is very friendly towards her and she is grateful to be given meals and two sets of clothes. But she is warned by the butler to be aware that the youngest son of the family may take an interest in her. She is also glad to have a bed to herself, something she never had when her parents had a house. Unfortunately, Enid's life takes a turn, and she finds herself with no job until she ultimately finds a new one after contacting the owner of the previous household. The other girls from the Workhouse always seem to be in Enid's mind, and she is determined to help them out with employment, especially her friend Connie, but is she now beyond being helped?
Fans of Downton Abbey will love this historic story of life both in the Workhouse and below stairs in a big house. I found it an enchanting yet emotional read, yet a book I couldn't put down. As with other books I have read by Lynette Rees, this is surely going to be a smash hit, too. Full of friendships, and ultimately hard times leading to living in the Workhouse and then in the servants quarters of big houses. Will these young women make a life for themselves?
March 27, 2025
Enid Hardcastle has always had a hard life. Her father is an alcoholic and drinks away any money he makes. When they are evicted and no longer able to make ends meet, the family is moved to the workhouse. Enid is friends with local boy, Jimmy, and they hope to marry someday. He gives her strength to survive in the workhouse. When she is given a job working in one of the manor homes of a family that supports the workhouse, she thinks she has it made. Something happens that causes her to lose her employment and get sent to a different workhouse in Cardiff. The master of the house, finds her and gets her a job in a different house, where she does very well. Jimmy doesn't know where she has gone, but finds her when he goes to the house to pick up books for the cobbler he works for. Can they rekindle their relationship?
The Workhouse Girl was a bit darker than the first book in this trilogy. A young girl working in a grand home where there are lecherous men, will find herself in danger. Staff are not usually believed when something happens and that is what happens with the mistress. Enid ends up on her feet and helps her family get out of the workhouse as well with the help of others. She and Betsan reconnect as well and they spend time together. There are other ways that young girls are in danger in this book and you will have to read it to find out why. This showed the tough side of living back in the 1880s where scratching out a living is difficult. I did enjoy the characters and how they supported one another. Once again this book was narrated by Deryn Edwards and she does a great job with the story, characters and tone. I enjoyed listening to this one.
The Workhouse Girl was a bit darker than the first book in this trilogy. A young girl working in a grand home where there are lecherous men, will find herself in danger. Staff are not usually believed when something happens and that is what happens with the mistress. Enid ends up on her feet and helps her family get out of the workhouse as well with the help of others. She and Betsan reconnect as well and they spend time together. There are other ways that young girls are in danger in this book and you will have to read it to find out why. This showed the tough side of living back in the 1880s where scratching out a living is difficult. I did enjoy the characters and how they supported one another. Once again this book was narrated by Deryn Edwards and she does a great job with the story, characters and tone. I enjoyed listening to this one.
June 18, 2024
In this emotional and heartfelt historical fiction novel, Lynette Rees introduces readers to the workhouses of nineteenth and twentieth century Britain. Following Enid Hardcastle, who moves to the local workhouse with her family, readers explore her placement in some grand local houses, but these places are not as safe as the dreary conditions of the workhouse. Bolstered by her friendship with local entrepreneur Jimmy, Enid wants to find a way out of the workhouse for her and her family through their hard and honest work. When her job at a grand house becomes unsafe, Enid’s life and relationships completely change and force her to find a new life elsewhere to continue her dream of a self-sufficient life for her and her family. With a strong-willed protagonist and a host of complex minor characters, Rees brings the struggles of working-class life and the workhouse to life in this novel through the contrasts between Enid and her coworkers and her employers. The vibrant settings and complicated characters really add to the atmosphere of the novel, and the juxtaposition of the different locations really add to the atmosphere and emotionality of this novel. The incredible detail and vibrant characters and settings make Rees’s latest book a must read for fans of historical fiction.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
July 16, 2024
A unique read from a storyteller to be enjoyed.
1885 in Merthyr Tydfil and Enid Hardcastle a vibrant redhead with a mass of freckles is growing up into a beautiful girl and it not short of admirers Daniel Owen wants to walk out with her and then meeting up once again with Jimmy Cororan living next door, Enid is a bright girl wanting to get on in life. After her family are forced to move into the workhouse it gives Enid even more strength to never give up.
I could not put this book down some very emotional chapters that pull at your heartstrings. Beautiful read right to the ending.
Perfect in a quiet spot with full filling enjoyment.
a unique historical drama just beautiful.
1885 in Merthyr Tydfil and Enid Hardcastle a vibrant redhead with a mass of freckles is growing up into a beautiful girl and it not short of admirers Daniel Owen wants to walk out with her and then meeting up once again with Jimmy Cororan living next door, Enid is a bright girl wanting to get on in life. After her family are forced to move into the workhouse it gives Enid even more strength to never give up.
I could not put this book down some very emotional chapters that pull at your heartstrings. Beautiful read right to the ending.
Perfect in a quiet spot with full filling enjoyment.
a unique historical drama just beautiful.
October 23, 2025
A girl survivor
Absolutely love Enid and how she was able to cope through so many hardships in her life. No respect for her father, when times got hard he got drunk and blamed everyone else. I know there's another book, so I'm going to have to read it, cuz its leaves you hanging with wondering -what about Jimmy? Enid's long time friend and fiance. He was such a main character and then it was like he was just forgotten about. Never even got any updates on what was going on with him. Anyway, Enid goes through a lot! Poverty, workhouse, rape, ridicule, and vengeance. I found myself applauding her at points in the book. Enjoy!- good story.
Absolutely love Enid and how she was able to cope through so many hardships in her life. No respect for her father, when times got hard he got drunk and blamed everyone else. I know there's another book, so I'm going to have to read it, cuz its leaves you hanging with wondering -what about Jimmy? Enid's long time friend and fiance. He was such a main character and then it was like he was just forgotten about. Never even got any updates on what was going on with him. Anyway, Enid goes through a lot! Poverty, workhouse, rape, ridicule, and vengeance. I found myself applauding her at points in the book. Enjoy!- good story.
May 27, 2024
A beautifully designed historical saga following Enid Hardcastle as her family end up in the workhouse. Enid gets a place of work in a prestigious home where she is set upon by the son of the manor who in his mother's eyes can do no wrong. The struggles that are overcome in the story are horrendous and show the strength of young Enid. She is also a kind person and always has a smile for everyone. An emotionally charged tale of love and the end of this one was rather abrupt so I am thinking that there will be another book. I really hope so as I have loved both of the books in this series.
May 27, 2024
Firstly thank you to @theboldbook club for letting me able to read this book. I loved it and with it being the second in the series and this book ending so abruptly I’m hoping they’ll be a third. This series follows Enid as she endures the workhouse and the trials that go with it. Would recommend the series.
September 23, 2024
a tale of misogyny
A story of sorrow and heartbreak of men who take great delight in hurting the women in their path degrading them and calling them wanton women. I think it was thoughtfully written and executed l did like the tale and hope to read more of this author
A story of sorrow and heartbreak of men who take great delight in hurting the women in their path degrading them and calling them wanton women. I think it was thoughtfully written and executed l did like the tale and hope to read more of this author
June 15, 2024
Work house
Absolutely fantastic story I was hooked from very beginning I got so absorbed in it from the very first page
Absolutely fantastic story I was hooked from very beginning I got so absorbed in it from the very first page
July 24, 2024
loved it
Brilliant read loved it couldn’t put it down looking forward to my next one to read Lynette Rees brilliant got
Brilliant read loved it couldn’t put it down looking forward to my next one to read Lynette Rees brilliant got
August 2, 2024
I thought it was a lovely story except I thought the beginning was very slow also I was disappointed she didn’t meet Jimmy at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2025
not what I expected it to be
August 11, 2025
Good
Nice little historical fiction.
Good characters, enjoyed reading on my kindle app.
Would read more from Lynette Rees
Thank you
Nice little historical fiction.
Good characters, enjoyed reading on my kindle app.
Would read more from Lynette Rees
Thank you
August 17, 2025
Trigger warnings not obvious on blurb. SA, Violence to women and R discussed in detail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2024
I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.
The Workhouse Girl, by Lynette Rees, is a historical woman’s fiction about overcoming adversity, even if you have to dig a little to find the strength to prevail. Enid Hardcastle has had a hard life; with her family getting thrown on the streets and being sent to a workhouse, it’s all Enid can do to find a place for herself in a world that frowns on women. Despite her troubles, she finds comfort in the most unlikely people and takes steps to save herself and her loved ones.
I like Enid’s self-reliance. She reminds me of me when I was younger, worrying over the family’s future finances to make sure everything was alright. While neither my family nor I were thrown out to the streets, when I was in grad school, I was definitely working to the bone to prepare for some financial disaster that would befall my either then boyfriend or my parents. (It still hasn’t happened, but you never know). I enjoy Enid’s refusal to back down from any challenge, and although her assault was something that should’ve never happened, she takes it in stride and keeps going. True, she could rely on so many people, from Connie to Mr. Clarkson and Mr. Darling, to even Cook and other servants. Everyone had gone out of their way to help her, which begs the question of how often other people like her have been assaulted and how many had caved under societal pressure to forget it.
A sobering thing that Rees gets right is how people, both men and women, may react to an assault. I absolutely hated Mrs. Clarkson and how her son could do no wrong in her eyes, nor did I enjoy Arthur putting his daughter down, convinced that she was promiscuous, to begin with. Some good people will help those who have experienced sexual violence, such as the aforementioned in the previous paragraphs, but they’re few and far between. While people are getting better at being more empathetic and providing support to such individuals, it’s hard to get people to actually take survivors seriously, especially if the abuser is a loved one. Then again, this was the road Enid was initially going down before Mr. Clarkson stepped in, but I digress.
Feel-good stories are always a little iffy to me. While I do appreciate a happy ending to a character’s extremely traumatic plot, it’s so easy to turn the story into more wish fulfillment. When it comes to The Workhouse Girl, it teeters on that line, but it also gives hope to the people who have gone through what Enid had experienced. So for right now, I would give this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
The Workhouse Girl, by Lynette Rees, is a historical woman’s fiction about overcoming adversity, even if you have to dig a little to find the strength to prevail. Enid Hardcastle has had a hard life; with her family getting thrown on the streets and being sent to a workhouse, it’s all Enid can do to find a place for herself in a world that frowns on women. Despite her troubles, she finds comfort in the most unlikely people and takes steps to save herself and her loved ones.
I like Enid’s self-reliance. She reminds me of me when I was younger, worrying over the family’s future finances to make sure everything was alright. While neither my family nor I were thrown out to the streets, when I was in grad school, I was definitely working to the bone to prepare for some financial disaster that would befall my either then boyfriend or my parents. (It still hasn’t happened, but you never know). I enjoy Enid’s refusal to back down from any challenge, and although her assault was something that should’ve never happened, she takes it in stride and keeps going. True, she could rely on so many people, from Connie to Mr. Clarkson and Mr. Darling, to even Cook and other servants. Everyone had gone out of their way to help her, which begs the question of how often other people like her have been assaulted and how many had caved under societal pressure to forget it.
A sobering thing that Rees gets right is how people, both men and women, may react to an assault. I absolutely hated Mrs. Clarkson and how her son could do no wrong in her eyes, nor did I enjoy Arthur putting his daughter down, convinced that she was promiscuous, to begin with. Some good people will help those who have experienced sexual violence, such as the aforementioned in the previous paragraphs, but they’re few and far between. While people are getting better at being more empathetic and providing support to such individuals, it’s hard to get people to actually take survivors seriously, especially if the abuser is a loved one. Then again, this was the road Enid was initially going down before Mr. Clarkson stepped in, but I digress.
Feel-good stories are always a little iffy to me. While I do appreciate a happy ending to a character’s extremely traumatic plot, it’s so easy to turn the story into more wish fulfillment. When it comes to The Workhouse Girl, it teeters on that line, but it also gives hope to the people who have gone through what Enid had experienced. So for right now, I would give this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
June 5, 2024
The Workhouse Girl Lynette Rees
Enid Hardcastle, a girl of indomitable spirit, has always faced the harsh realities of life. When her family, in the throes of financial struggle, is forced to the workhouse, it seems like the depths of despair. Yet, even in the face of such adversity, Enid's resilience shines through.
Luckily for Enid, her friendship with the local boy, Jimmy, gives her the strength she needs. Also, from the cold, hard streets of Merthyr, Jimmy has made his name as an entrepreneur, repairing boots and hand-delivering them to the fine people of the town.
Enid has seen that you can make a better life for yourself, so with Jimmy's help, she sets about trying to save her family.
Yet, the workhouse is not the end of their trials. As whispers of a more sinister fate circulate, it becomes clear that Enid and Jimmy are about to face a peril far more treacherous than they could have imagined.
My decision to join this tour was driven by a longing to reconnect with the emotional depth of historical sagas, a genre I had not explored since the '70s/'80s. The synopsis of 'The Workhouse Girl' piqued my interest, and I was compelled to delve deeper. I am grateful for this choice, as the story unfolded into a deeply moving narrative. The plot, intricately woven into the historic timescale, flowed with a poignant beauty.
When we first meet the protagonist, Enid, she is young and naive. However, she is forced to become more worldly aware and to grow up very quickly if she wants to get her family out of the workhouse. We follow her through her traumatising emotional journey. Help comes from a caring but surprising source.
We meet some lovely people that Enid meets through her time in service, but we also see the worst side of specific individuals too.
I am delighted to recommend this story, and I will certainly be reading more of Lynette's Books
I want to thank publisher Boldwood Books author Lynette Rees and Rachel's Random Resources for a place on tour and a book to read and review.
Enid Hardcastle, a girl of indomitable spirit, has always faced the harsh realities of life. When her family, in the throes of financial struggle, is forced to the workhouse, it seems like the depths of despair. Yet, even in the face of such adversity, Enid's resilience shines through.
Luckily for Enid, her friendship with the local boy, Jimmy, gives her the strength she needs. Also, from the cold, hard streets of Merthyr, Jimmy has made his name as an entrepreneur, repairing boots and hand-delivering them to the fine people of the town.
Enid has seen that you can make a better life for yourself, so with Jimmy's help, she sets about trying to save her family.
Yet, the workhouse is not the end of their trials. As whispers of a more sinister fate circulate, it becomes clear that Enid and Jimmy are about to face a peril far more treacherous than they could have imagined.
My decision to join this tour was driven by a longing to reconnect with the emotional depth of historical sagas, a genre I had not explored since the '70s/'80s. The synopsis of 'The Workhouse Girl' piqued my interest, and I was compelled to delve deeper. I am grateful for this choice, as the story unfolded into a deeply moving narrative. The plot, intricately woven into the historic timescale, flowed with a poignant beauty.
When we first meet the protagonist, Enid, she is young and naive. However, she is forced to become more worldly aware and to grow up very quickly if she wants to get her family out of the workhouse. We follow her through her traumatising emotional journey. Help comes from a caring but surprising source.
We meet some lovely people that Enid meets through her time in service, but we also see the worst side of specific individuals too.
I am delighted to recommend this story, and I will certainly be reading more of Lynette's Books
I want to thank publisher Boldwood Books author Lynette Rees and Rachel's Random Resources for a place on tour and a book to read and review.
June 4, 2024
I am an avid fan of historical fiction sagas. I am only sorry that I have just discovered Lynette Rees! The Workhouse Girl has a blurb which made me want to read it and the cover is gorgeous!
There is something about an immersive saga that just carries me away with the story. This novel is certainly one of those. It's told so vividly that I could picture the setting and Enid herself tugged on my heart strings. I became invested in her pretty quickly. She has been created so well that I can tell how much Lynette Rees pours into her characters. They are multi layered and so realistic. I felt like I could know Enid.
The storytelling is excellent. The amount of research the author has done is very present. It does make for such an authentic and emotional story. I haven't read much about Merthyr Tydfil historically, so this was an educational and entertaining read. The conditions back then were atrocious, and this was very clear. I felt for Enid all the way from the workhouse and her personal battles. I know these things happened all the time back then, and it made it more bittersweet the further I read.
Yet another historical fiction author to add to my ever growing list! If you, like me, hanker for authentic, emotional, and gripping historical fiction, try Lynette Rees. I highly recommend her writing! Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook to write my honest review.
There is something about an immersive saga that just carries me away with the story. This novel is certainly one of those. It's told so vividly that I could picture the setting and Enid herself tugged on my heart strings. I became invested in her pretty quickly. She has been created so well that I can tell how much Lynette Rees pours into her characters. They are multi layered and so realistic. I felt like I could know Enid.
The storytelling is excellent. The amount of research the author has done is very present. It does make for such an authentic and emotional story. I haven't read much about Merthyr Tydfil historically, so this was an educational and entertaining read. The conditions back then were atrocious, and this was very clear. I felt for Enid all the way from the workhouse and her personal battles. I know these things happened all the time back then, and it made it more bittersweet the further I read.
Yet another historical fiction author to add to my ever growing list! If you, like me, hanker for authentic, emotional, and gripping historical fiction, try Lynette Rees. I highly recommend her writing! Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook to write my honest review.
June 1, 2024
I hadn't read any of Lynette's books until The Workhouse Girl even though her novels have caught my eye over and over again. Why? Because I am a huge fan of stories set in the workhouse or amongst the poor the Victorian period.
This book stars heroine Enid Hardcastle and follows her, her friends and family as they struggle through the hardships of the working class families living and working in the Welsh town of Merthyr Tydfil. Enid eventually lands a position as a maid of all work at one of the 'big houses' and the story follows her interactions with the people above and below stairs.
Well written and evocative, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it kept me turning the pages - I particularly liked getting to know the secondary characters who were as well-drawn as the protagonist. A recommended read for any fan of the workhouse saga!
This book stars heroine Enid Hardcastle and follows her, her friends and family as they struggle through the hardships of the working class families living and working in the Welsh town of Merthyr Tydfil. Enid eventually lands a position as a maid of all work at one of the 'big houses' and the story follows her interactions with the people above and below stairs.
Well written and evocative, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it kept me turning the pages - I particularly liked getting to know the secondary characters who were as well-drawn as the protagonist. A recommended read for any fan of the workhouse saga!
June 7, 2024
The Workhouse Girl is a quick, engaging read. The story centers around Enid and her experiences as a maid. There is a theme of overcoming adversity and standing up to the people who have wronged you.
This is a feel-good story which I think made it feel improbable to me at times.
The ending seemed abrupt and for me was not particularly satisfying. I am assuming that the author plans to write additional books about these characters since the story, especially related to several of the characters' relationships, was unresolved.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this story and I was interested in the outcome of the main character who was a kind and strong woman. My final rating would be 3.5 stars.
This is a feel-good story which I think made it feel improbable to me at times.
The ending seemed abrupt and for me was not particularly satisfying. I am assuming that the author plans to write additional books about these characters since the story, especially related to several of the characters' relationships, was unresolved.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this story and I was interested in the outcome of the main character who was a kind and strong woman. My final rating would be 3.5 stars.
June 13, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC publication for an honest review.
First thing that drew me to this book was the gorgeous cover! And for some reason I thought this was a Christian book...it is not! It is historical fiction which deals with some atrocities of the time period, not only the differences in the class structure, but also the blatant abuse that occurs between the two.
The story centers around Enid and it was a very emotional journey she encounters. Some of the situations and the "evil" characters felt a little over the top. Overall, it was a solid story, but the ending felt so abrupt and there wasn't full closure. I'm not sure if this is the start of a series, so maybe we will find out what happens next...and especially where is Jimmy??
3 stars
First thing that drew me to this book was the gorgeous cover! And for some reason I thought this was a Christian book...it is not! It is historical fiction which deals with some atrocities of the time period, not only the differences in the class structure, but also the blatant abuse that occurs between the two.
The story centers around Enid and it was a very emotional journey she encounters. Some of the situations and the "evil" characters felt a little over the top. Overall, it was a solid story, but the ending felt so abrupt and there wasn't full closure. I'm not sure if this is the start of a series, so maybe we will find out what happens next...and especially where is Jimmy??
3 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2024
I’m a huge fan of this genre and really can’t believe that this is the first book I’ve read by this author. After finishing this book I will certainly be reading more. The Workhouse Girl is a really great read and right from the very start I just knew this one was going be a must read for me. I was immediately captivated by Enid and her story. A book filled with excellent characters and how even the poorest of people did their utmost to survive during the bleakest of times. Enid was such a strong and brave young woman and I was completely in awe of her. A wonderfully written emotional saga that was an absolute pleasure to read.
May 23, 2024
I have read most of Lynette Rees books and this one did not disappoint. Just loved this book and the story of Enid Hardcastle and her struggle to make a better life for herself and her family. She overcomes pain and such sadness but all the while she still thinks about Jimmy. Maybe a follow up in the next book ?
My thanks as always to Netgalley for the early read and to the publisher Boldwood Books
My thanks as always to Netgalley for the early read and to the publisher Boldwood Books
August 12, 2025
Yet, another brilliant read from Lynette Rees which has you turning pages and reading quickly. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
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