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The Seaside Girls #4
The Seaside Girls
Cleethorpes 1939
With the country teetering on the brink of war everyone faces an uncertain future.
Destitute after the tragic death of her father, aspiring singer Jessie Delaney and her family have no choice other than to accept the charity of relatives to ensure a roof over their heads.
Spiteful Aunt Iris soon has Jessie dreaming of a life filled with colour and excitement that she knows the theatre can offer. How can Jessie escape the drudgery, support her family and pursue her dreams?
Through her father’s connections Jessie finds work as a Variety Girl in a new show at the Empire in Cleethorpes, a small seaside theatre on the east coast. But taking the job means flying solo and leaving her family and her sweetheart, Harry behind.
Friendships are forged but will the glamour of show business lose its shine without those she loves close by?
A gritty and heart-warming saga perfect for readers of Elaine Everest, Nancy Revell and Pam Howes.
With the country teetering on the brink of war everyone faces an uncertain future.
Destitute after the tragic death of her father, aspiring singer Jessie Delaney and her family have no choice other than to accept the charity of relatives to ensure a roof over their heads.
Spiteful Aunt Iris soon has Jessie dreaming of a life filled with colour and excitement that she knows the theatre can offer. How can Jessie escape the drudgery, support her family and pursue her dreams?
Through her father’s connections Jessie finds work as a Variety Girl in a new show at the Empire in Cleethorpes, a small seaside theatre on the east coast. But taking the job means flying solo and leaving her family and her sweetheart, Harry behind.
Friendships are forged but will the glamour of show business lose its shine without those she loves close by?
A gritty and heart-warming saga perfect for readers of Elaine Everest, Nancy Revell and Pam Howes.
330 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2024
171 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Baines
24 books49 followersTracy Baines writes about friendship, family, and finding your inner strength when life gets tough. Her stories celebrate strong women and the importance of community spirit. Tracy’s bestselling historical sagas are inspired by her love of the seaside and its contrast with the gritty industrial fishing ports on the east coast of England where she was born.
Her debut novel The Variety Girls (now The Seaside Girls) was shortlisted for the RNA Saga Award 2020.
Her grandmother’s stories and her own family heritage are the inspiration behind the Fishers Wharf series which follows the Hardy and the Evans families and the friendship that grows between two women from opposite sides of the class divide.
Tracy lives in Dorset with her husband, and dogs Harry and Betsy. Her children and grandchildren live close enough for babysitting duties.
When she’s not writing Tracy is either gardening, rummaging in antique shops or finding a host of other lovely ways to procrastinate. Coffee and cake are usually involved.
Her debut novel The Variety Girls (now The Seaside Girls) was shortlisted for the RNA Saga Award 2020.
Her grandmother’s stories and her own family heritage are the inspiration behind the Fishers Wharf series which follows the Hardy and the Evans families and the friendship that grows between two women from opposite sides of the class divide.
Tracy lives in Dorset with her husband, and dogs Harry and Betsy. Her children and grandchildren live close enough for babysitting duties.
When she’s not writing Tracy is either gardening, rummaging in antique shops or finding a host of other lovely ways to procrastinate. Coffee and cake are usually involved.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 18, 2024
The Seaside Girls Under Fire by Tracy Baines is the continuing story of three young women who had sung as a trio but now were living their lives in different directions. Ginny, who had returned home to care for her aging father; Frances who had married the father of her daughter and was managing a home and her ill sister-in-law; and Jessie, who was off the London to become a star. These were the Variety Sisters. Each with a truly different personality as well as a different story. All were poignant and well-written. All were heart-breaking in their own way. It is a story of Word War II in England, of those not fighting the war in the battlefields, but each fighting in their own way.
Ginny arrived home from performing with ENSA to find the house full of mold and garbage. Her father had no idea how to care for himself, and no desire to learn. Her aunt, his sister, was trying to help, but she had a family to care for, too. Ginny put her head down and got to work. Soon the place was livable again, but there was no money coming in and her savings was being eaten alive. Any money her father came across, he spent on drink. He was no longer able to work, so he sat in his chair most of the time. Frances and her new husband, Johnny, had been separated when he went tot he US to perform. He promised to send a ticket but it never came. As it turns out his mother and his sister had withheld his mail. He didn’t even know about his child until her returned home. Jessie was destined to be a star and she proved it during her first performance. They are terrific characters and each of their plots is real and engaging. They do come together now and them, but their lives have taken different paths. It was a joy to read this book, about these courageous young women who set out on their own at a time when women didn’t do that!
Terrific read!
I ws invited to read The Seaside Girls Under Fire by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalleu #BoldwoodBooks #TracyBaines #The SeasideGirlsUnderFire
Ginny arrived home from performing with ENSA to find the house full of mold and garbage. Her father had no idea how to care for himself, and no desire to learn. Her aunt, his sister, was trying to help, but she had a family to care for, too. Ginny put her head down and got to work. Soon the place was livable again, but there was no money coming in and her savings was being eaten alive. Any money her father came across, he spent on drink. He was no longer able to work, so he sat in his chair most of the time. Frances and her new husband, Johnny, had been separated when he went tot he US to perform. He promised to send a ticket but it never came. As it turns out his mother and his sister had withheld his mail. He didn’t even know about his child until her returned home. Jessie was destined to be a star and she proved it during her first performance. They are terrific characters and each of their plots is real and engaging. They do come together now and them, but their lives have taken different paths. It was a joy to read this book, about these courageous young women who set out on their own at a time when women didn’t do that!
Terrific read!
I ws invited to read The Seaside Girls Under Fire by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalleu #BoldwoodBooks #TracyBaines #The SeasideGirlsUnderFire
September 19, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
this is book 4 in the series and man do i wish i had read the other books in this series as the characters are so loveable well apart from the nasty ones, i was really routing for jessie
jessie delaney is off to london, she has her big break in a west end show... she is starting off small but it could lead to other things.... she also has plans... after years of struggling she wants to make sure that when she makes it big she can get that house for her mom and let her have the life she deserves ... but first she must put in the work
its whiles she performing in the show that she meets adele bailey another seasoned performer..... but there is a side to her that she doesnt show jessie and that maybe the undoing of jessie.... though thats a lesson for jessie to learn
the other two characters ginny and francis each have their own dramas to deal with and its enough with the war to keep everyone together
this i have to admit was very enjoyable to read .. i just wish i had read the other 3 books in this series but its can be read as a stand alone as there are plenty of places where the author lets you know whats happened in the past....
will be keeping an eye out for more from this author and these loveable characters..
this is book 4 in the series and man do i wish i had read the other books in this series as the characters are so loveable well apart from the nasty ones, i was really routing for jessie
jessie delaney is off to london, she has her big break in a west end show... she is starting off small but it could lead to other things.... she also has plans... after years of struggling she wants to make sure that when she makes it big she can get that house for her mom and let her have the life she deserves ... but first she must put in the work
its whiles she performing in the show that she meets adele bailey another seasoned performer..... but there is a side to her that she doesnt show jessie and that maybe the undoing of jessie.... though thats a lesson for jessie to learn
the other two characters ginny and francis each have their own dramas to deal with and its enough with the war to keep everyone together
this i have to admit was very enjoyable to read .. i just wish i had read the other 3 books in this series but its can be read as a stand alone as there are plenty of places where the author lets you know whats happened in the past....
will be keeping an eye out for more from this author and these loveable characters..
November 23, 2024
This was a captivating historical fiction novel, set in the time of World War II.
Set in Cleethorpes, a seaside town, it focused on the lives of these women—Jessie Delaney, Ginny Thompson, and Frances Randolph—who are associated by their roles in the entertainment industry.
Their individual stories are written and bringing the story together.
I love reading the girls’ roles as performers and entertainers in the war. Their new roles and adapting to the life of war.
Their love and friendship grew with the pressures of war.
I enjoyed the story, combining historical side with the girls individual stories.
A new author to me who I intend to read more of.
Set in Cleethorpes, a seaside town, it focused on the lives of these women—Jessie Delaney, Ginny Thompson, and Frances Randolph—who are associated by their roles in the entertainment industry.
Their individual stories are written and bringing the story together.
I love reading the girls’ roles as performers and entertainers in the war. Their new roles and adapting to the life of war.
Their love and friendship grew with the pressures of war.
I enjoyed the story, combining historical side with the girls individual stories.
A new author to me who I intend to read more of.
September 8, 2024
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of this novel.
The fourth instalment of this beloved series finds the three young women of the title facing down the nightmare that was imminent in the previous volume. With Britain’s entry into the war, the Empire Theatre has been shuttered, and their Variety Girls act to entertain the troops and keep up home front morale has been at least interrupted. The book opens in September 1940, the Blitz is underway, and the seaside village of Cleethorpes is rife with the ensuing tensions. Changes are happening as they inevitably must in a crisis situation, and choices have to be made without the luxury of prolonged reflection.
Although the theatres can now offer some minimal entertainment for morale’s sake, the trio has been compelled to move on. They face separation, at least ‘for the duration’ and perhaps for good. Talented singer Jessie Delaney, offered a place on a famous stage of London’s West End, is trying to settle in her new life. Battling loneliness and homesickness and the worst of the nightly Nazi bombardments, and worrying about her RAF fiancé, she is nonetheless determined to become a star. Much less exciting and gratifying is Ginny Thompson’s lot. She has been summoned back to her native Sheffield, which she had left at 15, after her mother’s death, swearing never to return. With her brothers all enlisted, she has to care for her mean-spirited, abusive, and now ailing father. Only the now-married Frances Randolph remains in Cleethorpes, now with the onerous responsibility of filling her husband’s role in running the Palace that his family owns as he is off to fight in the war. She also has to contend with the challenge of her emotionally disturbed sister in law, with whom she now shares a home, and who she cannot trust after all the trouble she caused between her and her husband Jack.
For series followers, the story and its main characters will be familiar and ‘cozy,’ as always, with enough development in both to satisfy them. For those new to the series, there is just enough backstory to provide the necessary context, but you may find going back at least to the previous volume to be worthwhile. There is much warmth and affection here that rings true against the anxious backdrop of war and sacrifice, and the girls’ steadfast love and loyalty for each other are touching in their persistence against the odds of life changes and a dangerous world.
The fourth instalment of this beloved series finds the three young women of the title facing down the nightmare that was imminent in the previous volume. With Britain’s entry into the war, the Empire Theatre has been shuttered, and their Variety Girls act to entertain the troops and keep up home front morale has been at least interrupted. The book opens in September 1940, the Blitz is underway, and the seaside village of Cleethorpes is rife with the ensuing tensions. Changes are happening as they inevitably must in a crisis situation, and choices have to be made without the luxury of prolonged reflection.
Although the theatres can now offer some minimal entertainment for morale’s sake, the trio has been compelled to move on. They face separation, at least ‘for the duration’ and perhaps for good. Talented singer Jessie Delaney, offered a place on a famous stage of London’s West End, is trying to settle in her new life. Battling loneliness and homesickness and the worst of the nightly Nazi bombardments, and worrying about her RAF fiancé, she is nonetheless determined to become a star. Much less exciting and gratifying is Ginny Thompson’s lot. She has been summoned back to her native Sheffield, which she had left at 15, after her mother’s death, swearing never to return. With her brothers all enlisted, she has to care for her mean-spirited, abusive, and now ailing father. Only the now-married Frances Randolph remains in Cleethorpes, now with the onerous responsibility of filling her husband’s role in running the Palace that his family owns as he is off to fight in the war. She also has to contend with the challenge of her emotionally disturbed sister in law, with whom she now shares a home, and who she cannot trust after all the trouble she caused between her and her husband Jack.
For series followers, the story and its main characters will be familiar and ‘cozy,’ as always, with enough development in both to satisfy them. For those new to the series, there is just enough backstory to provide the necessary context, but you may find going back at least to the previous volume to be worthwhile. There is much warmth and affection here that rings true against the anxious backdrop of war and sacrifice, and the girls’ steadfast love and loyalty for each other are touching in their persistence against the odds of life changes and a dangerous world.
September 1, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
The Seaside Girls #4
Cleethorpes - September 1940: It's all change for the Seaside Girls....
Singer Jessie Delaney has finally got her big break in London's West End and is determined to make the most of her golden opportunity, even with the start of the Blitz. Lonely and lacking the guidance of friends and family, Jessie hopes that seasoned performer Adele Bailey will help her find her feet. But when fame beckons, friendships are tested - loyalties are divided.
Ginny Thompson returns home to Sheffield to care for her sick but abusive father. Will she survive the wrath of her father and the Blitz and return to her passion for entertaining the troops on stage?
Meanwhile, back in Cleethorpes, Frances Randolph is busy running the Palace Theatre while her husband serves his King and Country, wondering if her life in the spotlight is over forever.
Will Jesse make the right choices as she navigates her way up to the top - and can Ginny and Frances find their way back to the limelight?
This book tells the story of four women who are trying to adjust their lives due to the war. The women's characters are well-developed. The Blitz has just started, and the girls are even more determined to get on with the show. I did enjoy this story, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read all the books in this series. My first read by the author, but it won't be my last.
Published 22nd September 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #TracyBaines for my ARC of#TheSeasideGirlsUnderFire in exchange for an honest review.
The Seaside Girls #4
Cleethorpes - September 1940: It's all change for the Seaside Girls....
Singer Jessie Delaney has finally got her big break in London's West End and is determined to make the most of her golden opportunity, even with the start of the Blitz. Lonely and lacking the guidance of friends and family, Jessie hopes that seasoned performer Adele Bailey will help her find her feet. But when fame beckons, friendships are tested - loyalties are divided.
Ginny Thompson returns home to Sheffield to care for her sick but abusive father. Will she survive the wrath of her father and the Blitz and return to her passion for entertaining the troops on stage?
Meanwhile, back in Cleethorpes, Frances Randolph is busy running the Palace Theatre while her husband serves his King and Country, wondering if her life in the spotlight is over forever.
Will Jesse make the right choices as she navigates her way up to the top - and can Ginny and Frances find their way back to the limelight?
This book tells the story of four women who are trying to adjust their lives due to the war. The women's characters are well-developed. The Blitz has just started, and the girls are even more determined to get on with the show. I did enjoy this story, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read all the books in this series. My first read by the author, but it won't be my last.
Published 22nd September 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #TracyBaines for my ARC of#TheSeasideGirlsUnderFire in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2024
Yet another WWII story time frame set in Britain but of those who held the fort on the home front. In this case of the girls who entertained the lads that had to go off to the battle front. Girls such as Jesse, Frances, Ruby, Ginny and their supportive loved ones who took their work seriously as a way to do their part for the war effort. Their shows often went on despite air raid warnings, entertainers and crew alike, holding fast. Other pitfalls though of the trade as Jessie experienced - never really knowing who was a true friend.
I did find the narrative somewhat slow starting off as there were so many characters to keep track of - it felt scattered. However, it eventually straightened out taking the reader from one stage, so to speak, to another, for Frances and Ruby, then to Ginny's plight and then back to Jesse's stage, which then circled round again.
The author did manage to create the emotions, I believe, of elation for the girls' successes, for the heartbreaking devastations, and the courage to endure the ongoing Blitz's effects. I feel these are good glimpses of what it was to have lived through those years, for those of us who have not been through it all directly.
~ Eunice C. Reviewer/Blogger ~
September 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
I did find the narrative somewhat slow starting off as there were so many characters to keep track of - it felt scattered. However, it eventually straightened out taking the reader from one stage, so to speak, to another, for Frances and Ruby, then to Ginny's plight and then back to Jesse's stage, which then circled round again.
The author did manage to create the emotions, I believe, of elation for the girls' successes, for the heartbreaking devastations, and the courage to endure the ongoing Blitz's effects. I feel these are good glimpses of what it was to have lived through those years, for those of us who have not been through it all directly.
~ Eunice C. Reviewer/Blogger ~
September 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
September 2, 2024
The Seaside Girls under Fire is the fourth book in the series, The Seaside Girls. When I decided to read the book I looked it up here and read that it was the first in a series. Later I discovered that it is the fourth. Normally that wouldn't be an issue for me because many books in a series can be read as stand-alones. This could be one of them, perhaps for somebody else. But, for me, so much happened in the first 3 books that when they were briefly recapped in this book there was just too much going on. When I started to get a little overwhelmed with catching up with things that happened previously, I realised that this book wasn't the first in a series.
That said, I did enjoy the book. The main characters Jessie, and Ginny had stories that made me run the gamut of emotions. I won't give spoilers, but some scenes had me in tears or gasping out loud. Thankfully there were a lot of fun moments too so by the time I finished the book I didn't feel worn out from all of my emotions.
I wish I had read the previous books first because I don't feel like I can go back and read them now as I know how it all ends. So if you get the chance, and haven't already, I would recommend that you read the series in order.
That said, I did enjoy the book. The main characters Jessie, and Ginny had stories that made me run the gamut of emotions. I won't give spoilers, but some scenes had me in tears or gasping out loud. Thankfully there were a lot of fun moments too so by the time I finished the book I didn't feel worn out from all of my emotions.
I wish I had read the previous books first because I don't feel like I can go back and read them now as I know how it all ends. So if you get the chance, and haven't already, I would recommend that you read the series in order.
April 15, 2025
I hadn't realised when I requested this book that it was actually book 4 in the Seaside Girls series. I wish I had known this as I feel I missed some of the build-up and history as this is the last book in the series. Each book revolves around a character and I presume we follow their journeys along in each installment.
The book is set in the seaside town of Cleethorpes in September 1940. And follows the story of 3 friends, Jessie Delaney, Frances Randolph and Ginny Thompson. Each has her place in the world and the entertainment industry all each are trying hard to live out their dreams whilst World War II goes on in the background. The Blitz has just begun and each has to navigate a world and work around the war.
This is a lovely book about friendship, hope and courage. Making the phrase 'the show must go on' all the more poignant. I am sure the west end and theatres were a haven for most people especially soldiers during the war. The characters are really well developed and I was really hoping Jessie had all her dreams come true.
I would have liked to give this book 3.5 stars but as I haven't read the previous books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book is set in the seaside town of Cleethorpes in September 1940. And follows the story of 3 friends, Jessie Delaney, Frances Randolph and Ginny Thompson. Each has her place in the world and the entertainment industry all each are trying hard to live out their dreams whilst World War II goes on in the background. The Blitz has just begun and each has to navigate a world and work around the war.
This is a lovely book about friendship, hope and courage. Making the phrase 'the show must go on' all the more poignant. I am sure the west end and theatres were a haven for most people especially soldiers during the war. The characters are really well developed and I was really hoping Jessie had all her dreams come true.
I would have liked to give this book 3.5 stars but as I haven't read the previous books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2024
This story continues the journey of three women who once performed together as the Variety Sisters but have since gone their separate ways. Ginny has returned home to care for her abusive father, who squanders any money he can find on alcohol. Frances, now married and raising her child, manages the Palace, a family-owned establishment, while navigating difficult family dynamics. Jessie, meanwhile, is pursuing her dream of becoming a star in London’s West End, but she faces homesickness and the nightly Blitz during World War II.
Each woman’s story is beautifully written, showing that while they aren't on the front lines, their struggles during the war are just as challenging. This book captures the emotional toll of World War II on the home front, making it a compelling read. Even though this is part of a series, it stands strong on its own, and I’m eager to read the previous books to fully immerse myself in the lives of these remarkable women.
Thank you Boldwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Each woman’s story is beautifully written, showing that while they aren't on the front lines, their struggles during the war are just as challenging. This book captures the emotional toll of World War II on the home front, making it a compelling read. Even though this is part of a series, it stands strong on its own, and I’m eager to read the previous books to fully immerse myself in the lives of these remarkable women.
Thank you Boldwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
October 5, 2024
Cleethorpes, September 1940
The Seaside Girls face a tide of change as the Blitz escalates. Jessie Delaney, a singer, seizes her big break in London's West End, braving the bombings to grasp her chance at stardom. Alone and without her loved ones' guidance, Jessie hopes the experienced Adele Bailey will mentor her. Yet, as fame calls, friendships strain and allegiances split. Ginny Thompson heads back to Sheffield to tend to her ailing, yet tyrannical father. Can she endure his temper and the Blitz to reignite her passion for performing for the troops? In Cleethorpes, Frances Randolph manages the Palace Theatre, pondering if her days in the spotlight have dimmed as her husband serves his nation. Will Jessie's decisions guide her to success, and will Ginny and Frances step back into the limelight?
This was my introduction to this series and the author. I appreciated that the narrative unfolded during World War II, offering insight into the lives of those on the home front. The journey of each girl unfolds, mingling sorrow and setbacks with the joy and solidarity among the women. With thanks to the publisher for an arc in exchange for a review.
The Seaside Girls face a tide of change as the Blitz escalates. Jessie Delaney, a singer, seizes her big break in London's West End, braving the bombings to grasp her chance at stardom. Alone and without her loved ones' guidance, Jessie hopes the experienced Adele Bailey will mentor her. Yet, as fame calls, friendships strain and allegiances split. Ginny Thompson heads back to Sheffield to tend to her ailing, yet tyrannical father. Can she endure his temper and the Blitz to reignite her passion for performing for the troops? In Cleethorpes, Frances Randolph manages the Palace Theatre, pondering if her days in the spotlight have dimmed as her husband serves his nation. Will Jessie's decisions guide her to success, and will Ginny and Frances step back into the limelight?
This was my introduction to this series and the author. I appreciated that the narrative unfolded during World War II, offering insight into the lives of those on the home front. The journey of each girl unfolds, mingling sorrow and setbacks with the joy and solidarity among the women. With thanks to the publisher for an arc in exchange for a review.
September 10, 2024
My word. The Seaside Girls under Fire is a historical fiction that kept me reading, looking for the bright spots during a very horrible time in the world's history. The story shares glimpses into what life might have been like for this living in England during the horrible bombings.
Many of the characters happen to be in the entertainment business. What a great way to have the characters in different locations. I was able to see that people didn't always have the same experiences. The bombings in London never seemed to stop. The damage and the loss of life broke my heart.
This story did something that many history and text books fail to do. Tracy Baines made it real. Her descriptions made it easy to imagine what was happening during the war. Reading about the horrors of World War Two is bad enough. I never, ever want to experience it.
Many of the characters happen to be in the entertainment business. What a great way to have the characters in different locations. I was able to see that people didn't always have the same experiences. The bombings in London never seemed to stop. The damage and the loss of life broke my heart.
This story did something that many history and text books fail to do. Tracy Baines made it real. Her descriptions made it easy to imagine what was happening during the war. Reading about the horrors of World War Two is bad enough. I never, ever want to experience it.
September 22, 2024
I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
This is part of the Seaside Girls series. I haven't read any of the other books in the series, but based on this, I think I would be interested in reading more. This heartwarming historical saga takes the reader to Cleethorpes during WWII. I enjoyed the atmosphere and felt at home there.
I found it nostalgic, but also lively and welcoming. I think that a seaside town is associated with joyful memories, fun and laughter, and that was something I felt in the author's writing. The characters were likeable, and had optimistic attitudes, despite the challenges they faced.
This was a heartwarming read that sparked joy. Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is part of the Seaside Girls series. I haven't read any of the other books in the series, but based on this, I think I would be interested in reading more. This heartwarming historical saga takes the reader to Cleethorpes during WWII. I enjoyed the atmosphere and felt at home there.
I found it nostalgic, but also lively and welcoming. I think that a seaside town is associated with joyful memories, fun and laughter, and that was something I felt in the author's writing. The characters were likeable, and had optimistic attitudes, despite the challenges they faced.
This was a heartwarming read that sparked joy. Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
November 10, 2024
Fabulous Author
What a wonderful series of books The Seaside Girls.
Getting older I often have to refresh my memory when reading books in a series but Tracy Baines' Characters are so strong, you really do feel part of the story!
It is a very gripping series, being set in the second World War. You will laugh, feel those butterflies in your stomach when things get so tense, one of those hide behind the cushion moments! You will need tissues as you will be moved to tears at the loss of a beloved character.
I really recommend you reading the 1st book in the series - don't miss out - you will not be disappointed.
I hope this series continues - I am off to buy a book in her new series.
What a wonderful series of books The Seaside Girls.
Getting older I often have to refresh my memory when reading books in a series but Tracy Baines' Characters are so strong, you really do feel part of the story!
It is a very gripping series, being set in the second World War. You will laugh, feel those butterflies in your stomach when things get so tense, one of those hide behind the cushion moments! You will need tissues as you will be moved to tears at the loss of a beloved character.
I really recommend you reading the 1st book in the series - don't miss out - you will not be disappointed.
I hope this series continues - I am off to buy a book in her new series.
September 15, 2024
It took me a while to get into this book and I think that was partly because I hadn’t read any of the previous books. There were a lot of names at first but gradually it all became clearer. The story followed mainly three of the women, Jessie, Francis and Ginny. The was a brief recap of what had happened before. They are all involved in the entertainment business in one way or another. Jessie is desperate to make a name for herself in the West End but she is quite naive and has a lot of growing up to do. She does have good support in her family and friends. All this is going on while the Blitz is happening and it tells how people managed their lives using this time. This was an engaging read. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 17, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟The Seaside Girls Under Fire by super talented author, Tracy Baines is book four in The Seaside Girls series.
Jessie is pursuing her dream by relocating to London to participate in her first West End production, but she’s struggling to feel at home. Will Adele be a source of support or a challenge for her?
Tracy has once again delivered an incredible story that captivated me! Her characters are intelligent, independent women who shine on stage. I enjoy picturing Cleethorpes and envisioning how the seaside town appeared in the 1940s compared to today, all while engrossed in a compelling narrative!
I suggest you go and let your copy asap!
Jessie is pursuing her dream by relocating to London to participate in her first West End production, but she’s struggling to feel at home. Will Adele be a source of support or a challenge for her?
Tracy has once again delivered an incredible story that captivated me! Her characters are intelligent, independent women who shine on stage. I enjoy picturing Cleethorpes and envisioning how the seaside town appeared in the 1940s compared to today, all while engrossed in a compelling narrative!
I suggest you go and let your copy asap!
September 24, 2024
It was lovely to catch up with Frances, Jessie and Ginny once more as they struggle on through the war. With different things going on in each of their lives the girls get parted but the strong bonds of friendship keep them in each other’s lives. There is lots going on in this book making it hard to put it down. How many times I thought oh just one more chapter. If you like this genre then you will love this series
September 7, 2024
It's not all stardust and sequins.
Cleethorpes 1940.
The seaside girls Jessie Delaney, Ginny Thompson and Frances Randolph.
What's to become for the girls now the country is at war.
Amazing read once again that the main focus is on Jessie, I just love this series from the author very much so. Full of heartache love and family and friends coming together.
Loved it.
Cleethorpes 1940.
The seaside girls Jessie Delaney, Ginny Thompson and Frances Randolph.
What's to become for the girls now the country is at war.
Amazing read once again that the main focus is on Jessie, I just love this series from the author very much so. Full of heartache love and family and friends coming together.
Loved it.
August 24, 2025
very gripping
As with so many stories this didn’t hold my interest at the start but by the 3rd chapter I was hooked and found it difficult to put down, reading well into the night, now I can’t wait to pick up the next book to continue the story. Thankyou for taking me into another world. 💖
As with so many stories this didn’t hold my interest at the start but by the 3rd chapter I was hooked and found it difficult to put down, reading well into the night, now I can’t wait to pick up the next book to continue the story. Thankyou for taking me into another world. 💖
August 20, 2024
Thank you to @theboldbookclub for the chance to read this book. This is the fourth instalment of the series and it just gets better. Great storyline and great characters. Looking forward to the next book.
August 30, 2024
It took me about 1/3 of the ok to get into. Found it didn’t have much to hold my attention. It then improved and I was quite enjoying the plot and the characters. The last part of the story was more intriguing and I felt as if I was knowing the characters. Maybe this wasn’t one totally for me.
September 23, 2024
This is a fabulous read, picking up on the lives of the
Girls and their families and friends
I couldn’t put this book down.
So many leads for another book that I hope will be written
It was pure joy and fun to read to see what was happening to the seaside girls under fire. FANTASTIC.
Girls and their families and friends
I couldn’t put this book down.
So many leads for another book that I hope will be written
It was pure joy and fun to read to see what was happening to the seaside girls under fire. FANTASTIC.
November 15, 2024
Courage in Uncertain Times
This book combines a coming of age story with the addèd challenge of living through the Blitz . The story expands as Jessie finds her feet as a singer and makes new friends with their own stories. Good bok
This book combines a coming of age story with the addèd challenge of living through the Blitz . The story expands as Jessie finds her feet as a singer and makes new friends with their own stories. Good bok
February 12, 2025
Even though I was new to this saga, all of the characters had such rich histories and unique details that I instantly felt as though I'd known them for years.
Full review over on my blog http://clydescorner.org/2024/09/27/re...
Full review over on my blog http://clydescorner.org/2024/09/27/re...
February 16, 2025
Very good book. This series keeps you wanting to read more about all the characters. The war history is interesting & sad. The bravery of the English people as they tried to make their lives as normal as possible amidst war times.
I was never bored with Ms. Blaine’s storytelling.
I was never bored with Ms. Blaine’s storytelling.
November 26, 2025
Wonderful!!
I have really enjoyed reading about Jessie, Francis and Ginny. Such a lovely story about their experiences and friendship. So happy that everything worked out well for them all in the end. XX
I have really enjoyed reading about Jessie, Francis and Ginny. Such a lovely story about their experiences and friendship. So happy that everything worked out well for them all in the end. XX
October 13, 2024
Excellent Read
This is a wonderful series detailing events of the second world war alongside the loves and loves of the main characters.
A must for readers of this genre
This is a wonderful series detailing events of the second world war alongside the loves and loves of the main characters.
A must for readers of this genre
December 31, 2024
Loved all these books. Definitely recommend
February 3, 2025
Loved the whole series, a real good read, friendship hardship this series has it all
May 18, 2025
Another enjoyable read
So enjoyed the storyline moving forward and covering all the favourite characters. Didn't want it to end and look forward to the next book
So enjoyed the storyline moving forward and covering all the favourite characters. Didn't want it to end and look forward to the next book
November 7, 2024
Loved it, a book I found hard to put down so on the strength of that I have bought the other three books in the series. HOPE I am not disappointed. Sometimes it can be like that, the first book reels you in and the rest are twaddle. I usually love Tracy Baines writing so fingers crossed!!!
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