What do you think?
Rate this book
The Island Girls
1941: For the townspeople of Poole on the Dorset coast, the war in Europe feels to be right on their doorstep. And with more and more men leaving to fight, one fisherman’s daughter is determined to do whatever she can to help. Peggy volunteers to use her skills on the water to work with the flying boats alongside the RAF based in the harbour. But when she is asked to undertake a special mission, she will have to make a terrible choice – between her duty to her country and her only chance of happiness.
1998: Rebekah has travelled halfway around the world to take up a role on Brownsea Island. This tiny island off the coast of England is a treasure trove of natural wonder, but it still carries the scars of fighting. And when Rebekah discovers a lost letter from the war, hidden all this time, she becomes determined to deliver it, fifty years later.
But the idyllic Dorset harbour hides many more secrets, and Rebekah’s search for the truth will change her life in ways she never imagined possible…
1998: Rebekah has travelled halfway around the world to take up a role on Brownsea Island. This tiny island off the coast of England is a treasure trove of natural wonder, but it still carries the scars of fighting. And when Rebekah discovers a lost letter from the war, hidden all this time, she becomes determined to deliver it, fifty years later.
But the idyllic Dorset harbour hides many more secrets, and Rebekah’s search for the truth will change her life in ways she never imagined possible…
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2024
209 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 7, 2024
Peggy is the daughter of a fisherman, she knows the waterways of Poole like the back of her hand and she helps transfer passengers and supplies from the flying boats and is a member of the British Overseas Airways Corporation. The area is strategically important to England and the RAF is stationed nearby and the pilots fly over protecting ships and their homeland. Peggy is asked to try and locate a possible German spy, and by doing so she has to choose between her country and the man she loves.
The story has a dual timeline and is told from the two main charters perspectives Peggy Symonds and Rebekah Martins, set in 1941 and 1998 and it’s easy to follow.
Rebekah is from Brisbane, Australia and loves her job working as a wildlife ranger on Brownsea Island, known for its wildlife and red squirrels, woodlands and walking trails. Rebekah meets historian Paul and he’s visiting the island for the first time and the Dorset coast. Rebekah shows him around, he stunned by the beautiful views of Poole Harbour and the Isle of Purbeck. They discover a lost letter from the Second World War era, they want to solve the mystery of what happened and hopefully deliver the letter to its recipient.
I received a copy of The Island Girls by Rachel Sweasey from NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. The author grew up in Poole and now lives in Brisbane, Australia and she perfectly blends facts about both countries in the engrossing and well written narrative. Full of vivid descriptions of Poole, Brownsea Island and Brisbane and Queensland.
A story about war, love, family, sacrifice, refugees, fear, coincidences, history, starting over, being sun smart, and discovering the truth. Ms. Sweasey has defiantly improved the quality of her writing in her second book and the flow of the plot. I did read and enjoyed her debut novel The Last Boat Home and certainly I noticed the difference. I highly recommend The Island Girls, for fans of dual timeline fiction with a touch of mystery and romance, and for readers with an interest in English war time history, the Dorset Coast and land now owned by the National Trust and five stars from me.
The story has a dual timeline and is told from the two main charters perspectives Peggy Symonds and Rebekah Martins, set in 1941 and 1998 and it’s easy to follow.
Rebekah is from Brisbane, Australia and loves her job working as a wildlife ranger on Brownsea Island, known for its wildlife and red squirrels, woodlands and walking trails. Rebekah meets historian Paul and he’s visiting the island for the first time and the Dorset coast. Rebekah shows him around, he stunned by the beautiful views of Poole Harbour and the Isle of Purbeck. They discover a lost letter from the Second World War era, they want to solve the mystery of what happened and hopefully deliver the letter to its recipient.
I received a copy of The Island Girls by Rachel Sweasey from NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. The author grew up in Poole and now lives in Brisbane, Australia and she perfectly blends facts about both countries in the engrossing and well written narrative. Full of vivid descriptions of Poole, Brownsea Island and Brisbane and Queensland.
A story about war, love, family, sacrifice, refugees, fear, coincidences, history, starting over, being sun smart, and discovering the truth. Ms. Sweasey has defiantly improved the quality of her writing in her second book and the flow of the plot. I did read and enjoyed her debut novel The Last Boat Home and certainly I noticed the difference. I highly recommend The Island Girls, for fans of dual timeline fiction with a touch of mystery and romance, and for readers with an interest in English war time history, the Dorset Coast and land now owned by the National Trust and five stars from me.
September 13, 2024
What an interesting visit to Poole and the Dorset coast of England!
WW2, Flying Boats, air raid shelters and spy missions….combined with detailed descriptions of Poole and Brownsea Island, past and present. Bonus trip to Australia, too!
I enjoyed this look back in history and I liked all of the characters.
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
WW2, Flying Boats, air raid shelters and spy missions….combined with detailed descriptions of Poole and Brownsea Island, past and present. Bonus trip to Australia, too!
I enjoyed this look back in history and I liked all of the characters.
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
September 9, 2024
A great dual time-line story set in 1940 and present day. An interesting story set in Poole in Dorset. I enjoyed this one. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
May 2, 2025
Dual timeline story that captures life in Poole and surrounds and in Brisbane too. Have spent time in Poole and Bracken Ridge I feel a connection with the story. Must visit Brownsea Island again!
September 12, 2024
Sooo good ….loved the anguish and emotional pull of the characters!!
October 21, 2024
3.5 stars.
I loved the setting of this story in Dorset and the descriptions of Brownsea Island, also the work done by the women of Poole during WW2. There was also some interesting descriptions of the wildlife in Australia. It is set on two timelines, 1940s and 1998. Peggy, who worked on the boats, featured in the earlier time and Rebekah, an Australian, was a ranger on the island in the latter. Their stories follow their love lives and their occupations. I did like the characters but I did find the pace a little slow at times. Although, there were some happy endings, there were some situations where this was not achieved and left me feeling a bit unsatisfied. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the setting of this story in Dorset and the descriptions of Brownsea Island, also the work done by the women of Poole during WW2. There was also some interesting descriptions of the wildlife in Australia. It is set on two timelines, 1940s and 1998. Peggy, who worked on the boats, featured in the earlier time and Rebekah, an Australian, was a ranger on the island in the latter. Their stories follow their love lives and their occupations. I did like the characters but I did find the pace a little slow at times. Although, there were some happy endings, there were some situations where this was not achieved and left me feeling a bit unsatisfied. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2024
I was absolutely fascinated by the historical backdrop to this story – Poole Harbour becoming the only wartime civilian airport in the UK (for a while) with BOAC’s flying boat operations, the links with the Harbour Heights Hotel and Poole Pottery’s showrooms, the Australian RAAF squadron based nearby, Brownsea Island as a clearing station for Dutch and Belgian refugees. In her notes (at the book’s end) about the historical detail and which elements were fact or fiction, she says that her research was “deliciously addictive” – and I was so caught up by her enthusiasm that I went down a Google rabbit hole of my own for a while too, wanting to read more. But it takes an author with vision and imagination – and wonderful storytelling skills – to weave that background into such an engaging dual time story, with two perfectly balanced storylines and such well developed characters, that I found entirely impossible to put down.
In 1941, Peggy – the daughter of a fisherman, so very familiar with boats – is a volunteer, ferrying passengers to and from the flying boats using the harbour. The possibility of romance with an Australian airman has to be put on hold when she’s tasked with a mission – to get closer to a new arrival on her team, whose presence on the night of a precisely targeted bombing has raised suspicion that he might be a German spy. The story that then follows is drama-filled, as his personal history and true identity becomes clearer, and Peggy’s sense of duty and personal bravery drive her actions – edge-of-the-seat writing at its very best, but very engaging at an emotional level too.
In 1998, Rebekah – born in Brisbane, but drawn to Dorset by the stories told by the neighbour she knew as Aunty Pig – is working as a wildlife ranger for National Trust, living and working on Brownsea Island. Her solitary, close-to-nature life is one she enjoys, and she looks forward to the daily departure of the visitors and other guides, allowing her to be at peace with her surroundings. Until Paul appears – a historian, marooned on the island, who she finds it surprisingly easy to both like and trust. Growing closer as she helps him with his research, they find an intriguing wartime letter than never reached its intended recipient – and together, with the links between the two storylines becoming increasingly clear, they set out together to make sure that it is finally delivered.
The shifts between past and present day stories are perfectly handled – very smoothly done, cleverly linked, and never a single moment when I would have preferred to remain with the one I was reading. There’s real depth to the characterisation – and not just Peggy and Rebekah, but every individual who plays their part in their stories – and the author’s emotional touch is simply perfect. There’s a wonderful sense of place to both past and present – the author’s depth of research is used as it should be, to bring the locations (and the era, for the wartime story) so vividly to life. And I really enjoyed the slow reveal, the uncovering of so many secrets as the pieces fell into place – it was a story I found both moving and totally captivating. And Rebekah’s developing romance? That was really rather lovely too.
The story that unfolded has stayed with me long after reading the final page – this really was a rather special book that I couldn’t recommend more highly, and I’ll very much look forward to reading more from its talented author.
In 1941, Peggy – the daughter of a fisherman, so very familiar with boats – is a volunteer, ferrying passengers to and from the flying boats using the harbour. The possibility of romance with an Australian airman has to be put on hold when she’s tasked with a mission – to get closer to a new arrival on her team, whose presence on the night of a precisely targeted bombing has raised suspicion that he might be a German spy. The story that then follows is drama-filled, as his personal history and true identity becomes clearer, and Peggy’s sense of duty and personal bravery drive her actions – edge-of-the-seat writing at its very best, but very engaging at an emotional level too.
In 1998, Rebekah – born in Brisbane, but drawn to Dorset by the stories told by the neighbour she knew as Aunty Pig – is working as a wildlife ranger for National Trust, living and working on Brownsea Island. Her solitary, close-to-nature life is one she enjoys, and she looks forward to the daily departure of the visitors and other guides, allowing her to be at peace with her surroundings. Until Paul appears – a historian, marooned on the island, who she finds it surprisingly easy to both like and trust. Growing closer as she helps him with his research, they find an intriguing wartime letter than never reached its intended recipient – and together, with the links between the two storylines becoming increasingly clear, they set out together to make sure that it is finally delivered.
The shifts between past and present day stories are perfectly handled – very smoothly done, cleverly linked, and never a single moment when I would have preferred to remain with the one I was reading. There’s real depth to the characterisation – and not just Peggy and Rebekah, but every individual who plays their part in their stories – and the author’s emotional touch is simply perfect. There’s a wonderful sense of place to both past and present – the author’s depth of research is used as it should be, to bring the locations (and the era, for the wartime story) so vividly to life. And I really enjoyed the slow reveal, the uncovering of so many secrets as the pieces fell into place – it was a story I found both moving and totally captivating. And Rebekah’s developing romance? That was really rather lovely too.
The story that unfolded has stayed with me long after reading the final page – this really was a rather special book that I couldn’t recommend more highly, and I’ll very much look forward to reading more from its talented author.
October 27, 2024
This book revolves around two women and told with dual timelines. Peggy helps during the war in a surprising way. Rebekah in modern day finds an unexpected letter destined for someone else.
This was an interesting story with two women in different times.
This was an interesting story with two women in different times.
September 24, 2024
A very enjoyable read. This is a dual timeline book but it’s not the typical, overly hint-hint-wink-wink style that I’ve grown weary of. The “mystery” is actually somewhat secondary to the life stories of the two main characters & the introduction of it isn’t until quite a way through. It didn’t feel forced like this type of narrative often can: I learnt quite a bit about the BOAC & if you love nature I imagine those passages will be quite interesting (though I admit to skimming them myself). Overall an enjoyable read & I’ve already checked for other titles by this author - so that says it all!
ARC received from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for this honest review.
ARC received from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for this honest review.
October 22, 2024
This dual-timeline novel brings two women together, Peggy in 1941 and Rebekah in 1998, whose lives are linked by wartime secrets. In 1941, Peggy is a brave fisherman's daughter who joins the RAF and must make a heartbreaking decision between duty and happiness. In 1998, while working on Brownsea Island, Rebekah discovers a hidden wartime letter, and her search for the truth leads to unexpected discoveries.
The story expertly blends history and mystery, with both timelines providing captivating and emotional journeys. Peggy's courage and Rebekah's determination are inspiring, making this a moving and captivating read.
The story expertly blends history and mystery, with both timelines providing captivating and emotional journeys. Peggy's courage and Rebekah's determination are inspiring, making this a moving and captivating read.
November 13, 2024
I enjoyed this novel, learning about the significance of Poole Harbour during the Second World War. Some of the facts that Sweasey included were fascinating, such as where the origins of the word “airport” comes from. As far as dual-timeline stories go, this was pretty good, but I felt more invested in the past compared to the present.
Sweasey does a great job of striking parallels between the female protagonists. I liked how Brownsea Island and Poole Harbour connect Rebekah and Peggy over the decades and how both characters have found a contentment in their surroundings. In the present, we learn why Rebekah lives on her own and are briefly provided with her background to life in Australia… which also happened to include her next door neighbour, none other than our second lead female.
In the war, Peggy is responsible for helping with the flying boats. However, it soon becomes clear that there is an enemy within their midst who is leaking information to the Germans. Life changes for Peggy when she realises that she needs to put her country before her heart, crossing her fingers and toes that any budding relationship with airman Darrell will remain intact.
Yet, as is often the case, there are assumptions that lead to misunderstandings. Both Peggy and Rebekah have romantic interests in their timelines, although it turns out that Rebekah has more solid foundations. On the other hand, Peggy shows a strength and determination that I felt was lacking in Rebekah, even though she does start to follow her own mind in the latter part of the novel.
I found I was more interested in Peggy’s story and think that the dual-timeline element could have been forgotten entirely, so focussed was I on what happened during the Second World War. Indeed, the story opens with a fraught chapter in Rotterdam and I was really hoping that the characters impacted would feature more in the plot as a whole, rather than being side-lined to near the end. In my opinion, this weakened the overall narrative; by the time the Rotterdam characters re-appeared, I had almost forgotten about their opening scenes.
An undelivered letter from the past drives this narrative and I loved how it connected Rebekah and Peggy over the years. The love interests were sweet and added warmth, although I was hoping for more of a happy ending for our wartime heroine.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sweasey does a great job of striking parallels between the female protagonists. I liked how Brownsea Island and Poole Harbour connect Rebekah and Peggy over the decades and how both characters have found a contentment in their surroundings. In the present, we learn why Rebekah lives on her own and are briefly provided with her background to life in Australia… which also happened to include her next door neighbour, none other than our second lead female.
In the war, Peggy is responsible for helping with the flying boats. However, it soon becomes clear that there is an enemy within their midst who is leaking information to the Germans. Life changes for Peggy when she realises that she needs to put her country before her heart, crossing her fingers and toes that any budding relationship with airman Darrell will remain intact.
Yet, as is often the case, there are assumptions that lead to misunderstandings. Both Peggy and Rebekah have romantic interests in their timelines, although it turns out that Rebekah has more solid foundations. On the other hand, Peggy shows a strength and determination that I felt was lacking in Rebekah, even though she does start to follow her own mind in the latter part of the novel.
I found I was more interested in Peggy’s story and think that the dual-timeline element could have been forgotten entirely, so focussed was I on what happened during the Second World War. Indeed, the story opens with a fraught chapter in Rotterdam and I was really hoping that the characters impacted would feature more in the plot as a whole, rather than being side-lined to near the end. In my opinion, this weakened the overall narrative; by the time the Rotterdam characters re-appeared, I had almost forgotten about their opening scenes.
An undelivered letter from the past drives this narrative and I loved how it connected Rebekah and Peggy over the years. The love interests were sweet and added warmth, although I was hoping for more of a happy ending for our wartime heroine.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2024
What a smashing read!
During the war, Poole in Dorset had a lot going on; women were stepping up and taking over previously male-dominated jobs and refugees from other countries were arriving in the hope of being accepted into Britain. In 1998 Rebekah, an Australian, is working on Brownsea Island in Poole, a place she had dreamed of being after hearing all the wartime tales from her neighbour as she was growing up. This is the story of both times . . .
I do enjoy a domestic wartime tale and I have to say that this one has told me so much about things I have never come across previously. This is a thrilling tale - in more ways than one - and a thoroughly enjoyable read which I recommend and give 4.5*.
During the war, Poole in Dorset had a lot going on; women were stepping up and taking over previously male-dominated jobs and refugees from other countries were arriving in the hope of being accepted into Britain. In 1998 Rebekah, an Australian, is working on Brownsea Island in Poole, a place she had dreamed of being after hearing all the wartime tales from her neighbour as she was growing up. This is the story of both times . . .
I do enjoy a domestic wartime tale and I have to say that this one has told me so much about things I have never come across previously. This is a thrilling tale - in more ways than one - and a thoroughly enjoyable read which I recommend and give 4.5*.
October 22, 2024
I absolutely adored this book! What a beautifully written, brilliant story. Spanning continents and decades, this sweeping epic stole my heart. The characters felt so very real and burrowed themselves in my heart - loved them all and felt for them. An absolutely stunning story that will stay with me and that I will be recommending to everyone.
September 19, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a copy of this novel in return for an honest review.
Duel timeline story set in Poole in Dorset.
1941
Peggy Symonds puts her knowledge of the waters to good use. Working alongside the RAF with the flying boats in the harbour, she is asked to undertake a special mission. Peggy has been entrusted in finding a suspected German spy. She must choose between the man she loves and her country as she undertakes this task.
1998
Rebekah Martins is originally from Brisbane, but is now living on Brownlea Island, where she works with nature and loves her life.
She meets Paul, a newcomer to the island and a historian with whom she makes a connection.
Together they discover a lost letter from the war years, and arr determined to deliver it - fifty years later. But Rebekah also discovers that the lost letter is not the only secret that the island has been hiding, and her discoveries are about to change her life in unexpected ways.
I was interested to learn about the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) and its role during WW2. The author presents the life of the fishing community of Poole in Dorset and the RAF station nearby in the 1940's very well.
The writing becomes a little rambling at some points, and I would have liked to learn a little more of the characteristics of the people, and a little less of how to cook mussels and make a cup of tea!
Nevertheless, the story is pleasant and I am glad to have the opportunity to read it. This book would suit people with a knowledge of the areas it is set in, the RAF and BOAC, and WW2 fiction.
Duel timeline story set in Poole in Dorset.
1941
Peggy Symonds puts her knowledge of the waters to good use. Working alongside the RAF with the flying boats in the harbour, she is asked to undertake a special mission. Peggy has been entrusted in finding a suspected German spy. She must choose between the man she loves and her country as she undertakes this task.
1998
Rebekah Martins is originally from Brisbane, but is now living on Brownlea Island, where she works with nature and loves her life.
She meets Paul, a newcomer to the island and a historian with whom she makes a connection.
Together they discover a lost letter from the war years, and arr determined to deliver it - fifty years later. But Rebekah also discovers that the lost letter is not the only secret that the island has been hiding, and her discoveries are about to change her life in unexpected ways.
I was interested to learn about the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) and its role during WW2. The author presents the life of the fishing community of Poole in Dorset and the RAF station nearby in the 1940's very well.
The writing becomes a little rambling at some points, and I would have liked to learn a little more of the characteristics of the people, and a little less of how to cook mussels and make a cup of tea!
Nevertheless, the story is pleasant and I am glad to have the opportunity to read it. This book would suit people with a knowledge of the areas it is set in, the RAF and BOAC, and WW2 fiction.
April 14, 2025
A wonderful dual time line novel. I loved the locations and particularly the issues that arose for Peggy in 1941. Very enjoyable!
November 3, 2024
This review is being posted as part of the The Island Girls blog tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources.
The Island Girls is the latest compelling historical fiction novel from author Rachel Sweasey. This is a beautiful story exploring themes of love, sacrifice, secrets and fresh starts, all set against the backdrop of Dorset in both wartime and the 1990s.
Our narrative is made up of multiple timelines sharing the stories of multiple people, all of which interweave. It was fun to try and piece the stories together gradually as the novel progresses, predicting how the different individuals we meet were connected. The story does primarily focus on two women: Peggy – in 1941 – and Rebekah – in 1998. They were brilliant strong female characters and both women have a romantic arc to their individual stories which was a really nice addition.
Rachel Sweasey’s engaging writing style had me hooked from the prologue. The narrative was well paced and the split between the different timelines was perfect. The history was all well-researched and provided a really interesting insight into the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) and the work they did during the war.
The Island Girls does generally feel more light-hearted than other World War Two historical fiction works of a similar nature. Whilst there are still lots of gripping moments and touches of darker topics – outlined in the content warnings at the beginning of my review – the setting of the home front and multi-timeline aspect means that this is ideal for historical fiction readers who want a refreshing break from reading harder-hitting novels in the genre, whilst not sacrificing the compelling writing style and history-packed narrative we love the genre for.
Rachel Sweasey’s love for her hometown of Poole was clear through her vivid setting descriptions of the beautiful landscape of the Dorset coast, particularly around Brownsea Island.
Overall, The Island Girls is a brilliant addition to the historical fiction genre. This beautiful story, spanning multiple decades and continents, is a must-read and one which will stay with readers for some time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I have posted an extended review on my blog www.yourschloe.co.uk
*I received a copy of this book in eBook format via NetGalley in return for this review. All reviews published are completely honest and my own, and are in no way influenced by the gifting opportunity. Thank you to Rachel Sweasey, Boldwood Books, Rachel’s Random Resources and NetGalley.
The Island Girls is the latest compelling historical fiction novel from author Rachel Sweasey. This is a beautiful story exploring themes of love, sacrifice, secrets and fresh starts, all set against the backdrop of Dorset in both wartime and the 1990s.
Our narrative is made up of multiple timelines sharing the stories of multiple people, all of which interweave. It was fun to try and piece the stories together gradually as the novel progresses, predicting how the different individuals we meet were connected. The story does primarily focus on two women: Peggy – in 1941 – and Rebekah – in 1998. They were brilliant strong female characters and both women have a romantic arc to their individual stories which was a really nice addition.
Rachel Sweasey’s engaging writing style had me hooked from the prologue. The narrative was well paced and the split between the different timelines was perfect. The history was all well-researched and provided a really interesting insight into the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) and the work they did during the war.
The Island Girls does generally feel more light-hearted than other World War Two historical fiction works of a similar nature. Whilst there are still lots of gripping moments and touches of darker topics – outlined in the content warnings at the beginning of my review – the setting of the home front and multi-timeline aspect means that this is ideal for historical fiction readers who want a refreshing break from reading harder-hitting novels in the genre, whilst not sacrificing the compelling writing style and history-packed narrative we love the genre for.
Rachel Sweasey’s love for her hometown of Poole was clear through her vivid setting descriptions of the beautiful landscape of the Dorset coast, particularly around Brownsea Island.
Overall, The Island Girls is a brilliant addition to the historical fiction genre. This beautiful story, spanning multiple decades and continents, is a must-read and one which will stay with readers for some time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I have posted an extended review on my blog www.yourschloe.co.uk
*I received a copy of this book in eBook format via NetGalley in return for this review. All reviews published are completely honest and my own, and are in no way influenced by the gifting opportunity. Thank you to Rachel Sweasey, Boldwood Books, Rachel’s Random Resources and NetGalley.
October 22, 2024
I’ve loved stepping into the lives of the characters in both timelines in The Island Girls. In 1941, Peggy’s life and work for BOAC in Poole and 1998 with Rebekah as a ranger on Brownsea Island (and a visit to Australia).
The very first chapter is heartbreaking. This is set in Holland in May 1940. Despite not having had the chance to get to know any of the characters yet to form a bond, I did with this character. I don’t think I’ve ever connected with a character quite so fast!
There is romance in both timelines – for Peggy more of a sacrifice and for Rebekah, an opportunity to open herself to vulnerability and to trust if she takes it. There is more suspense in Peggy’s life linked to her job, whilst although we get to experience life on Brownsea Island as a ranger with Rebekah, the theme is more of a digging deeper to uncover facts and secrets.
The setting of the book in Poole is close to where I live. Poole Quay is one of our favourite places … but until reading The Island Girls I had NO IDEA about the flying boats and BOAC. It was easy for me to visualise the places mentioned in both timelines and since reading the story, I’ve done some searching and found this gem of a website, Poole Flying Boats Celebration. Reading through the archives and watching the footage has brought the story even more alive. If you get the chance, I recommend having a browse. The setting in Australia is easy to visualise too (and no, I’ve never been!). I liked this author’s writing style.
I’m so glad there is an epilogue because the story wouldn’t have ended satisfactorily for me (and I don’t mind being left without everything being tied up – but this story needed it). It felt complete.
I identified so easily with all the characters and felt all the emotions. I walked through that time in history, experiencing day-to-day life during World War II and what it was like to put your country ahead of your own needs. There are some tense and brutal scenes when you don’t know which way is up, balanced with true kinship and love.
The Island Girls is an easy 5-star read for me.
The very first chapter is heartbreaking. This is set in Holland in May 1940. Despite not having had the chance to get to know any of the characters yet to form a bond, I did with this character. I don’t think I’ve ever connected with a character quite so fast!
There is romance in both timelines – for Peggy more of a sacrifice and for Rebekah, an opportunity to open herself to vulnerability and to trust if she takes it. There is more suspense in Peggy’s life linked to her job, whilst although we get to experience life on Brownsea Island as a ranger with Rebekah, the theme is more of a digging deeper to uncover facts and secrets.
The setting of the book in Poole is close to where I live. Poole Quay is one of our favourite places … but until reading The Island Girls I had NO IDEA about the flying boats and BOAC. It was easy for me to visualise the places mentioned in both timelines and since reading the story, I’ve done some searching and found this gem of a website, Poole Flying Boats Celebration. Reading through the archives and watching the footage has brought the story even more alive. If you get the chance, I recommend having a browse. The setting in Australia is easy to visualise too (and no, I’ve never been!). I liked this author’s writing style.
I’m so glad there is an epilogue because the story wouldn’t have ended satisfactorily for me (and I don’t mind being left without everything being tied up – but this story needed it). It felt complete.
I identified so easily with all the characters and felt all the emotions. I walked through that time in history, experiencing day-to-day life during World War II and what it was like to put your country ahead of your own needs. There are some tense and brutal scenes when you don’t know which way is up, balanced with true kinship and love.
The Island Girls is an easy 5-star read for me.
January 1, 2025
In this brilliant new World War II dual-timeline historical fiction novel, readers join Peggy, a volunteer with the flying boats and RAF forces located near the village of Poole on Brownsea Island off the Dorset coast in 1941, and Rebekah, who has traveled around the world to take up a job on Brownsea in 1998. Peggy values her service to her country and its defense, but a special mission specifically meant for her will force her to choose between her duty to her country and her future happiness. Rebekah, over fifty years later, will discover a hidden letter and the island’s military secrets, which will perhaps shed light on the secret history of Brownsea Island and the people of Poole. Brilliantly written with two fantastically complex perspectives and characters driving this World War II narrative, Rachel Sweasey brings the hidden history of Poole and Brownsea Island to life in startling, complex, and emotional detail. The combination of characters and the different challenges they face add different kinds of complexity to the narrative, and the different interpersonal conflicts make Peggy and Rebekah engaging and relatable heroines. With high stakes and two perfectly balanced narratives, this is a great new addition to the World War II historical fiction genre that fans of similar titles will love.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
October 21, 2024
This lovely dual time story takes us into the heart of Dorset as we get to know Rebekah in the present time who works as a conservationist on the beautiful Brownsea Island. There, Rebekah enjoys her time meeting the tourists who visit this tiny island and yet she also guards her privacy well, that is, until a stranger arrives unexpectedly on her doorstep. Back in 1941, Peggy Symonds works as a BOAC boat operator, skilfully manoeuvring her small craft as she collects freight and passengers from the flying boats who come frequently into Poole harbour. Determined to do her duty for the war effort Peggy has some tough decisions to make.
Seamlessly moving between both time frames, a rather special story emerges and as one section finishes we return either to the past, or the present, following the story of two strong and determined young women. This picturesque part of Dorset comes to life as we explore Brownsea Island with Rebekah or travel the choppy coastal waters in Peggy’s boat. The author writes well, carefully blending the dark moments of history together with a gentle love story and with beautifully imagined characters the whole story becomes a delight to read and one which held my attention from start to finish.
October 25, 2024
The Island Girls is a duel time-line story set mainly in Poole and on Brownsea Island. In the 1940's Peggy Symonds is the focus of the story. She is the daughter of a fisherman and is working for the British Overseas Airways Corporation as a launch operator, ferrying passengers to boat planes. She is quick to learn and her work becomes more varied. In 1998 the protagonist is Rebekah Martin, an Australian by birth but now living and working on Brownsea Island as a ranger.
I particularly liked reading about Peggy's life during World War II and learned a lot about the area she worked in. That's always a point of interest to me; that I find out something I didn't know before whilst enjoying a story. I did, however, find the pace rather slow up to the midway point where I was very much hooked having realised what was going on.
This is an interesting and well-researched story which I very much enjoyed.
I particularly liked reading about Peggy's life during World War II and learned a lot about the area she worked in. That's always a point of interest to me; that I find out something I didn't know before whilst enjoying a story. I did, however, find the pace rather slow up to the midway point where I was very much hooked having realised what was going on.
This is an interesting and well-researched story which I very much enjoyed.
September 30, 2024
The Island Girls by Rachel Sweasey goes between 1998/9 and the Second World War. In 1998 Rebekah works as a ranger on Brownsea Island and spends most of her life travelling between there and Poole Harbour until she meets Paul. Her neighbour in Australia inspired her to move to this place where Peggy had spent her time during WW2 working on boats and seaplanes. However life for Peggy is not as it seems which is something that Rebekah discovers all those years later. Thanks to Rachel and her publisher.
October 18, 2024
Sometimes we find ourselves doing the unimaginable. Peggy discovered that she had the emotional and physical strength to accomplish the impossible. She risked everything plus the chance of a future with the love of her life.
Her secrets were discovered years later by a young woman who once was her neighbor, Rebekah. Rebekah worked on Brownsea Island. This is where she found a letter that led Rebekah on a road to discovery.
This story was written in two timelines. It was easy to read. I enjoyed reading about both women and of the men that they love.
Her secrets were discovered years later by a young woman who once was her neighbor, Rebekah. Rebekah worked on Brownsea Island. This is where she found a letter that led Rebekah on a road to discovery.
This story was written in two timelines. It was easy to read. I enjoyed reading about both women and of the men that they love.
April 5, 2025
The Island Girls by Rachel Sweasey is a dual-timeline novel set in 1941 and 1998. It follows Peggy Symonds during WWII, who works in Poole, England, assisting with wartime efforts while being asked to uncover a German spy, putting her love and loyalty to the test.
In 1998, Rebekah Martins, a wildlife ranger on Brownsea Island, teams up with historian Paul to investigate a lost letter from WWII, hoping to uncover its mystery.
The story combines love, sacrifice, history, and mystery, with vivid settings and well-developed characters, making it a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.
In 1998, Rebekah Martins, a wildlife ranger on Brownsea Island, teams up with historian Paul to investigate a lost letter from WWII, hoping to uncover its mystery.
The story combines love, sacrifice, history, and mystery, with vivid settings and well-developed characters, making it a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.
October 21, 2024
This is a great dual timeline story of WW2 at Poole in 1940s, and 1998 on Brownsea Island, with an episode in 1971 Australia! Poole Harbour became the only wartime civilian airport in the UK. It was fascinating learning about the BOAC, and the flying boats and their role during WW2. There’s mystery and romance too.
A very interesting and enjoyable read. Recommend
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGallery.
I am writing a voluntary honest review
A very interesting and enjoyable read. Recommend
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGallery.
I am writing a voluntary honest review
February 20, 2025
It took me a few chapters to get a feel for the characters, but I really enjoyed this story. I like the author's writing style and how she had two lives running parallel to one another, and both seeing the same sights unbeknownst to each other. There are places in this book I'd love to visit and I enjoyed all her descriptions.
October 1, 2024
Firstly thank you to @theboldbookclub for the chance to read this book I loved it. Set in Dorset in ww2 with the air raids and all the emotion that goes with it. The characters were great and really brought you in and I loved the storyline. Worth a read.
April 16, 2025
I could not put this book down. It was a dual timeline and it was well worth reading. I would definitely recommend it.
October 30, 2024
Four stories combine into one captivating, heart-warming romance set between England and Australia which captures the very essence of life changing decisions and their results, in The Island Girls from Rachael Sweasey.
A heartbreaking letter from Peggy to Darrell, written in March 1941, as War raged across Europe and England, declaring undying love sets the tone of the storyline which reaches its conclusion in Australia, many years later.
The German army is steadfastly moving through Europe, bombing Rotterdam unmercifully. Hans Meyers believes he should consider siding with them until his wife and infant child are killed in a bombing raid. He decides to flee, joining a flotilla of craft to cross the English Channel, to seek refuge in Britain.
Peggy Symonds is a boat captain plying her craft between the BOAC Flying Boats and the wharf in Poole. She loves her job and one days wants to be able to fly. She meets Darrell Taylor, a Flight Lieutenant based in Dorset and they fall in love; deeply and irrevocably.
Rebekah Martin has always had a love affair with Poole and Brownsea Island, having grown up next door to ‘Aunt’ Peggy, who told her stories of this marvellous place where she grew up. When an opportunity to take up a position as Caretaker on Brownsea Island for the National Trust offered Rebekah the opportunity to leave her beloved Australia and settle into a new life in Poole she took it.
When a stranger comes knocking on her Cottage door in the late evening, she takes pity on him, as he is coping with an allergic reaction to sleeping on the heather. Paul is an Historian researching the old Poole Pottery and somehow they seem to be very comfortable with each other; as if they have known one another for years, not just hours.
Four stands skilfully come together to create an unforgettable story of love, bravery, sacrifice and trust that warms the heart in this charming Historic Romantic Fiction, in The Island Girls.
In The Island Girls Rachael Sweasey has selected a little known slice of War time Britain with the Flying Boat harbour at Poole operated by British Overseas Airline Company, the clandestine work carried out throughout this Port, its use as the clearing depot for many refugees and the massive changes that had come to this small, quiet town in Dorset, with respect and innate skill for this genre of fiction.
The Authors Notes on Research and History at the end of the book are a must read.
A heartbreaking letter from Peggy to Darrell, written in March 1941, as War raged across Europe and England, declaring undying love sets the tone of the storyline which reaches its conclusion in Australia, many years later.
The German army is steadfastly moving through Europe, bombing Rotterdam unmercifully. Hans Meyers believes he should consider siding with them until his wife and infant child are killed in a bombing raid. He decides to flee, joining a flotilla of craft to cross the English Channel, to seek refuge in Britain.
Peggy Symonds is a boat captain plying her craft between the BOAC Flying Boats and the wharf in Poole. She loves her job and one days wants to be able to fly. She meets Darrell Taylor, a Flight Lieutenant based in Dorset and they fall in love; deeply and irrevocably.
Rebekah Martin has always had a love affair with Poole and Brownsea Island, having grown up next door to ‘Aunt’ Peggy, who told her stories of this marvellous place where she grew up. When an opportunity to take up a position as Caretaker on Brownsea Island for the National Trust offered Rebekah the opportunity to leave her beloved Australia and settle into a new life in Poole she took it.
When a stranger comes knocking on her Cottage door in the late evening, she takes pity on him, as he is coping with an allergic reaction to sleeping on the heather. Paul is an Historian researching the old Poole Pottery and somehow they seem to be very comfortable with each other; as if they have known one another for years, not just hours.
Four stands skilfully come together to create an unforgettable story of love, bravery, sacrifice and trust that warms the heart in this charming Historic Romantic Fiction, in The Island Girls.
In The Island Girls Rachael Sweasey has selected a little known slice of War time Britain with the Flying Boat harbour at Poole operated by British Overseas Airline Company, the clandestine work carried out throughout this Port, its use as the clearing depot for many refugees and the massive changes that had come to this small, quiet town in Dorset, with respect and innate skill for this genre of fiction.
The Authors Notes on Research and History at the end of the book are a must read.
October 14, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this eCopy to review
I recently read The Island Girls by Rachel Sweasey, and I must say, it was an incredible experience. The story is set in two different timelines, 1941 and 1998, and it beautifully intertwines the lives of two women, Peggy and Rebekah.
In 1941, I felt Peggy’s determination and bravery as she volunteered to help with the flying boats alongside the RAF in Poole. Her struggle between duty and personal happiness was heart-wrenching, and I couldn’t help but admire her courage. The historical backdrop of World War II added a layer of intensity and realism to her story.
Fast forward to 1998, and I found myself on a journey with Rebekah, who travelled to Brownsea Island. Her discovery of a lost letter from the war and her quest to deliver it fifty years later was both touching and transformative. The secrets she uncovered and the impact they had on her life were profound.
The dual timelines were masterfully handled, and the way the past and present connected was seamless. The characters were richly developed, and their emotions felt genuine and relatable. The setting of Dorset’s coast and Brownsea Island was vividly described, making me feel as if I was right there with them.
Overall, The Island Girls is a captivating tale of love, loss, and resilience. It’s a story that stayed with me long after I turned the last page. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a strong emotional core
I recently read The Island Girls by Rachel Sweasey, and I must say, it was an incredible experience. The story is set in two different timelines, 1941 and 1998, and it beautifully intertwines the lives of two women, Peggy and Rebekah.
In 1941, I felt Peggy’s determination and bravery as she volunteered to help with the flying boats alongside the RAF in Poole. Her struggle between duty and personal happiness was heart-wrenching, and I couldn’t help but admire her courage. The historical backdrop of World War II added a layer of intensity and realism to her story.
Fast forward to 1998, and I found myself on a journey with Rebekah, who travelled to Brownsea Island. Her discovery of a lost letter from the war and her quest to deliver it fifty years later was both touching and transformative. The secrets she uncovered and the impact they had on her life were profound.
The dual timelines were masterfully handled, and the way the past and present connected was seamless. The characters were richly developed, and their emotions felt genuine and relatable. The setting of Dorset’s coast and Brownsea Island was vividly described, making me feel as if I was right there with them.
Overall, The Island Girls is a captivating tale of love, loss, and resilience. It’s a story that stayed with me long after I turned the last page. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a strong emotional core
October 16, 2024
An amazing and heartwarming at times heartbreaking book.
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood books for the ARC
This books spans a few decades starting in 1940 when a young Dutch man called Hans loses his family and escapes to Poole. We then go to 1941 to learn about boat woman Peggy involved in the war effort and then later becoming more and her love for an Australian RAAF man.
We also have a story about Rebekka living in Poole where her aunty Peggy used to live in the WW2, her aunty she met in Brisbain, Australia. Rebekka's story is set in 1998 so you need to pay attention to the timelines.
Sweasey brings a wealth of information and historical facts into the story and it is so interesting and captivating to read Peggy's story our main character and of course the evolving love story of Rebekka.
This book was beautiful in every way even though sadness hit at time.
The way their lives were so mirrored and closely linked despite the 50+ years between Peggy and Rebekka.
I enjoyed the wonderful writing style of the author and how she folds you into both women's story with such delicacy and care.
Highly recommend this book especially if you love WW2 romance books and the impact of the war on friends and families, the communities and bonds they form and women holding the fort and bring themselves into the workforce often in dangerous situations.
Kerry Kennedy Author
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood books for the ARC
This books spans a few decades starting in 1940 when a young Dutch man called Hans loses his family and escapes to Poole. We then go to 1941 to learn about boat woman Peggy involved in the war effort and then later becoming more and her love for an Australian RAAF man.
We also have a story about Rebekka living in Poole where her aunty Peggy used to live in the WW2, her aunty she met in Brisbain, Australia. Rebekka's story is set in 1998 so you need to pay attention to the timelines.
Sweasey brings a wealth of information and historical facts into the story and it is so interesting and captivating to read Peggy's story our main character and of course the evolving love story of Rebekka.
This book was beautiful in every way even though sadness hit at time.
The way their lives were so mirrored and closely linked despite the 50+ years between Peggy and Rebekka.
I enjoyed the wonderful writing style of the author and how she folds you into both women's story with such delicacy and care.
Highly recommend this book especially if you love WW2 romance books and the impact of the war on friends and families, the communities and bonds they form and women holding the fort and bring themselves into the workforce often in dangerous situations.
Kerry Kennedy Author
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews