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The Clarks Factory Girls #3
Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls
Preorder a BRAND NEW instalment in the wartime saga series from May Ellis 1916: As fighting in Europe continues, the Clarks Factory Girls find themselves caught in a divided community...
With the country in the grips of conscription, the pacifism at the heart of Street village comes under scrutiny, and when Kate befriends Gerald, a young Quaker arrested for refusing to fight, she starts to understand the true dilemma the community finds itself in.
Still grieving the loss of her sweetheart Mattie, Louisa finds herself at odds with her parents, who refused them the chance to marry. As her mother’s attempts to find Louisa a husband show no signs of abating, Louisa takes solace in her friendship with Jeannie’s brother Lucas, but could an unexpected opportunity offer a solution to both their problems?
Meanwhile, Jeannie finds herself torn between her heart and her faith. With each other’s help, can the girls hold true to what they believe in, even as the village enters its darkest days yet?
With the country in the grips of conscription, the pacifism at the heart of Street village comes under scrutiny, and when Kate befriends Gerald, a young Quaker arrested for refusing to fight, she starts to understand the true dilemma the community finds itself in.
Still grieving the loss of her sweetheart Mattie, Louisa finds herself at odds with her parents, who refused them the chance to marry. As her mother’s attempts to find Louisa a husband show no signs of abating, Louisa takes solace in her friendship with Jeannie’s brother Lucas, but could an unexpected opportunity offer a solution to both their problems?
Meanwhile, Jeannie finds herself torn between her heart and her faith. With each other’s help, can the girls hold true to what they believe in, even as the village enters its darkest days yet?
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2025
160 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 12, 2024
I received a free copy of, Dark Days for the Clarks Factory Girls, by May Ellis, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book three in The Clark Factory Girls series. The Clark Factory Girls, Jeannie, Louisa, and Kate are in the mist of a war in 1916. They is also love friendship, and other things going on in their lives. This was a really good read.
January 14, 2025
Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls
is the third book in this series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. It was wonderful to be back with the three main characters , Jeannie, Louisa, Kate and their families. The First World
War is still raging on and whilst most of
the men folk are away fighting the women are keeping things going at the factory and in their homes. It’s a tough time for everyone but they are all coping and battling on with life and all that’s going on. As soon as I started
reading this book I felt like I was back with dear friends as the author has such a wonderful way of writing it just made me feel I was there with them all .
Each of the three girls have their own problems which they do their best to deal with and they have each other when times are tough. I absolutely love this saga series and can’t wait to read book number four .
is the third book in this series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. It was wonderful to be back with the three main characters , Jeannie, Louisa, Kate and their families. The First World
War is still raging on and whilst most of
the men folk are away fighting the women are keeping things going at the factory and in their homes. It’s a tough time for everyone but they are all coping and battling on with life and all that’s going on. As soon as I started
reading this book I felt like I was back with dear friends as the author has such a wonderful way of writing it just made me feel I was there with them all .
Each of the three girls have their own problems which they do their best to deal with and they have each other when times are tough. I absolutely love this saga series and can’t wait to read book number four .
August 21, 2025
I am really enjoying reading about the Clarks Factory girls and their friends and families.
The books have great stories, with drama, joy, sadness and a whole lot of emotions and the girls all support each other throughout.
I can picture where they all live and work in Street and what it's like working in Clarks in 1914 - 18.
The characters are all very realistic including the people in charge at the factory. I'm sure the author did a lot of research to get everything right and it shows. Looking forward to the final book !
The books have great stories, with drama, joy, sadness and a whole lot of emotions and the girls all support each other throughout.
I can picture where they all live and work in Street and what it's like working in Clarks in 1914 - 18.
The characters are all very realistic including the people in charge at the factory. I'm sure the author did a lot of research to get everything right and it shows. Looking forward to the final book !
October 24, 2025
Dark times for the Clark’s Factory Girls (The Clark’s Factory Girls #3. BY May Ellis. (Audiobook read on Hoopla app)
The year is now 1916. The war presses on and the Community is somewhat divided by those that feel every Young man should fight and those that dont. The one group even giving out white feathers to Young men in the village who ‘appear’ old enough and Well enough to fight but Never bothering to check their facts first.
Young Kate becomes friends begins writing to Quaker men in prison who had refused to enlist, she particularly makes friends with Gerald.
Louisa is back with her Ma and Pa but not so silent and docile anymore. She classes continually with her Ma and refuses to be bullied into submission anymore. She leans on Jeannies brother and her deceased sweetheart’s best Friend, Lucas, more than ever for strength and comfort.
Meanwhile loyal Jeannie finds herself locked between her heart and her faith. Does she stand by her morals and wait to possibly find love with a fellow Quaker or does she take a leap of faith at the love right in front of her. Will the girls’ friendship strengthen in these trials or be torn apart forever?
The year is now 1916. The war presses on and the Community is somewhat divided by those that feel every Young man should fight and those that dont. The one group even giving out white feathers to Young men in the village who ‘appear’ old enough and Well enough to fight but Never bothering to check their facts first.
Young Kate becomes friends begins writing to Quaker men in prison who had refused to enlist, she particularly makes friends with Gerald.
Louisa is back with her Ma and Pa but not so silent and docile anymore. She classes continually with her Ma and refuses to be bullied into submission anymore. She leans on Jeannies brother and her deceased sweetheart’s best Friend, Lucas, more than ever for strength and comfort.
Meanwhile loyal Jeannie finds herself locked between her heart and her faith. Does she stand by her morals and wait to possibly find love with a fellow Quaker or does she take a leap of faith at the love right in front of her. Will the girls’ friendship strengthen in these trials or be torn apart forever?
January 6, 2025
This is book three in the series featuring the girls who work in the Clarkes Shoe Factory, although it can be easily read as a stand-alone book, but it will be more enjoyable if you have read the previous two books. The main characters are three young women, Jeannie, Kate, and Louisa, who are all friends and work together at the Clarkes Factory, in Street, Somerset.
In January 1916, in Bristol, England and Gerald was having bad nightmares. After spending months on the front line, he had seen many unimaginable things. He served as a stretcher- bearer as he was a pacifist and also a Quaker, and it was against his beliefs to kill a fellow man. Now, after months in France, he had returned home to work on the land and was once again living with his mother.
In May 1916 Louisa is still very angry with her parents, refusing to attend church with them and her parents expect her to lie about her son, who is now being brought up by her deceased boyfriends brother and sister-in-law. Louisa is sure she will never forgive her parents for this, and she misses Mattie so very much. She becomes friends with Lucas, who is Jeannies brother, and he is gradually getting some feeling back in his right hand after being injured overseas. But when she suffers a family bereavement, she realises very quickly that her mother has new plans for her.
Kate dreadfully misses her mother and now attends the Quaker church, as she can't bear to attend the Holy Trinity church because her father has now moved his fancy woman in after her mum's death. But when she befriends a young man called Gerald who is arrested for refusing to fight, she soon finds out about the bad feelings that are going around. At the end of July, both of Kate's brothers had been called up, and she had hoped that she would get to see them again before they were shipped overseas. These people and more live in the area around Street in Somerset, and most work at the Clarkes Shoe Factory, but they all have to think positively, especially when so many young men are being called up. I did enjoy the camaraderie between everyone who worked for the Clarkes Factory, especially the main characters. There are also some bad feelings around as people are very nasty against those young men who refuse to fight, but also some who have been invalided out of the army are also caught up in the bad feelings and given white feathers. I was pleased to see at the end of the book that there is to be a fourth and final book in this series and I genuinely can't wait to find out what happens when the war ends and their loved ones return to Street in Somerset.
It's a fantastic moving story, and I absolutely loved it. A five-star read from me.
#Boldwoodbooks
#netgalley
#ClarkesFactoryGirls
In January 1916, in Bristol, England and Gerald was having bad nightmares. After spending months on the front line, he had seen many unimaginable things. He served as a stretcher- bearer as he was a pacifist and also a Quaker, and it was against his beliefs to kill a fellow man. Now, after months in France, he had returned home to work on the land and was once again living with his mother.
In May 1916 Louisa is still very angry with her parents, refusing to attend church with them and her parents expect her to lie about her son, who is now being brought up by her deceased boyfriends brother and sister-in-law. Louisa is sure she will never forgive her parents for this, and she misses Mattie so very much. She becomes friends with Lucas, who is Jeannies brother, and he is gradually getting some feeling back in his right hand after being injured overseas. But when she suffers a family bereavement, she realises very quickly that her mother has new plans for her.
Kate dreadfully misses her mother and now attends the Quaker church, as she can't bear to attend the Holy Trinity church because her father has now moved his fancy woman in after her mum's death. But when she befriends a young man called Gerald who is arrested for refusing to fight, she soon finds out about the bad feelings that are going around. At the end of July, both of Kate's brothers had been called up, and she had hoped that she would get to see them again before they were shipped overseas. These people and more live in the area around Street in Somerset, and most work at the Clarkes Shoe Factory, but they all have to think positively, especially when so many young men are being called up. I did enjoy the camaraderie between everyone who worked for the Clarkes Factory, especially the main characters. There are also some bad feelings around as people are very nasty against those young men who refuse to fight, but also some who have been invalided out of the army are also caught up in the bad feelings and given white feathers. I was pleased to see at the end of the book that there is to be a fourth and final book in this series and I genuinely can't wait to find out what happens when the war ends and their loved ones return to Street in Somerset.
It's a fantastic moving story, and I absolutely loved it. A five-star read from me.
#Boldwoodbooks
#netgalley
#ClarkesFactoryGirls
January 29, 2025
Last year, I read my first book by this author – Courage for the Clarks Factory Girls, which ended up being one of the best books I read in 2024. I was planning to read Book 1 in the series soon, but when Book 3 came out, I knew I had to catch up on what was happening and was eager to read Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls.
This is able to be read as a standalone, but personally, I’d recommend starting from Book 1 to get the most out of the series.
The Prologue is set in January 1916, in Bristol. Gerald, a Quaker and a pacifist, had been working with the ambulance unit in France, but was now back home with his mum. He is suffering from something like PTSD as we would recognise it now and works at the market garden growing food. But the conscription bill is coming in, which now means he would be expected to fight in the war.
Moving forward to May 1916, we catch up with all the familiar characters from the previous book. We follow the stories of the three girls as they continue their lives in Street during the First World War. They all still work at the Clarks Factory. Louisa is struggling living with her strict parents after the death of her boyfriend Mattie. Kate is going to the Quakers meetings with friend Jeannie, who is unsure about Tom’s feelings for her.
The conscription bill means more of their family and friends are being called up to fight and Kate begins to write to some of the men that are in prison for refusing to fight due to their religious beliefs. One of her penpals is Gerald.
I loved this book, I like how I always learn things from these kinds of stories as well as enjoy finding out what happens to the characters. Louisa is my favourite; it was so sad what happened to her in the previous novel and I was pleased to see her standing up to her horrible parents. I liked the introduction of some new characters like Gerald and Cyril, and finding out more about Tom too.
Overall, it’s a wonderful, absorbing novel and I’m looking forward to Book 4, which is due out in May.
This is able to be read as a standalone, but personally, I’d recommend starting from Book 1 to get the most out of the series.
The Prologue is set in January 1916, in Bristol. Gerald, a Quaker and a pacifist, had been working with the ambulance unit in France, but was now back home with his mum. He is suffering from something like PTSD as we would recognise it now and works at the market garden growing food. But the conscription bill is coming in, which now means he would be expected to fight in the war.
Moving forward to May 1916, we catch up with all the familiar characters from the previous book. We follow the stories of the three girls as they continue their lives in Street during the First World War. They all still work at the Clarks Factory. Louisa is struggling living with her strict parents after the death of her boyfriend Mattie. Kate is going to the Quakers meetings with friend Jeannie, who is unsure about Tom’s feelings for her.
The conscription bill means more of their family and friends are being called up to fight and Kate begins to write to some of the men that are in prison for refusing to fight due to their religious beliefs. One of her penpals is Gerald.
I loved this book, I like how I always learn things from these kinds of stories as well as enjoy finding out what happens to the characters. Louisa is my favourite; it was so sad what happened to her in the previous novel and I was pleased to see her standing up to her horrible parents. I liked the introduction of some new characters like Gerald and Cyril, and finding out more about Tom too.
Overall, it’s a wonderful, absorbing novel and I’m looking forward to Book 4, which is due out in May.
February 9, 2025
Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls is the third title in May Ellis’ touching, emotional and heartfelt series set during the First World War.
Seismic changes are coming to the country- and the village of Street – in 1915. England is in the grip of conscription and pacifism is under scrutiny. When Kate befriend a young Quaker who is arrested for refusing to fight, she begins to better understand the dilemma which her community is struggling with. Meanwhile, Louisa is dealing with struggles of her own. Her beloved sweetheart Mattie has died and with her parents having refused to allow them to marry, their relationship is strained further. Louisa’s mother is determined to find her daughter a husband even though Louisa is finding great solace in her friendship with Jeannie’s brother, Lucas. Will Louisa find a measure of happiness in the last place she thought to look for it? On the other hand, Jeannie is also trapped in a battle between her heart and her faith. Torn between duty and desire, will she find what she is looking for? Or will happiness continue to elude her?
With the war raging on, the three girls will need to rely on one another like never before. Will their friendship see them through the difficult times ahead? Will they remain steadfast in their beliefs? Or will everything they hoped for be snatched cruelly away by a senseless and relentless war?
May Ellis writes beautifully about friendship, community and the power of love and Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls is a poignant saga that beautifully brings to life the courage and sacrifices women made during wartime. Written with sensitivity and compassion and full of drama, emotion and pathos, saga readers will be completely gripped by May Ellis’ latest novel, Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Seismic changes are coming to the country- and the village of Street – in 1915. England is in the grip of conscription and pacifism is under scrutiny. When Kate befriend a young Quaker who is arrested for refusing to fight, she begins to better understand the dilemma which her community is struggling with. Meanwhile, Louisa is dealing with struggles of her own. Her beloved sweetheart Mattie has died and with her parents having refused to allow them to marry, their relationship is strained further. Louisa’s mother is determined to find her daughter a husband even though Louisa is finding great solace in her friendship with Jeannie’s brother, Lucas. Will Louisa find a measure of happiness in the last place she thought to look for it? On the other hand, Jeannie is also trapped in a battle between her heart and her faith. Torn between duty and desire, will she find what she is looking for? Or will happiness continue to elude her?
With the war raging on, the three girls will need to rely on one another like never before. Will their friendship see them through the difficult times ahead? Will they remain steadfast in their beliefs? Or will everything they hoped for be snatched cruelly away by a senseless and relentless war?
May Ellis writes beautifully about friendship, community and the power of love and Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls is a poignant saga that beautifully brings to life the courage and sacrifices women made during wartime. Written with sensitivity and compassion and full of drama, emotion and pathos, saga readers will be completely gripped by May Ellis’ latest novel, Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 26, 2025
This is the latest instalment in the Clarks factory Girls series and centres around the ongoing impact of the first World War. We're now in 1916 and the villagers are struggling with conscription which for many is at odds with the Quaker philosophy followed by so many. When Kate befriends Gerald, a Quaker imprisoned for refusing to fight, she begins to grasp the true predicament the community is facing. Still mourning the loss of her sweetheart Mattie, Louisa clashes with her parents, who refused to allow her to marry him because of their different religious beliefs. As her mother’s efforts to find Louisa a husband remain relentless, Louisa finds comfort in her friendship with Jeannie’s brother Lucas. Meanwhile, Jeannie is torn between her heart and her faith. With each other’s support, the girls stay true to their beliefs, even as the village endures its darkest days yet.
This is the third in the series and therefore probably best read in order. You could read it as a standalone but the story is building with each instalment and the relationships are developing. One of the strengths of this series is that it doesn't shy away from the terrible losses faced by many families and the horrors of war. There are gritty depictions of the treatment of the conscientious objectors who were imprisoned and of the difficult situation that some young women found themselves in but there are also lighter moments. Intrinsically this series is about friendship and that despite difficult times, it can still prevail. I'm looking forward to the next chapter in Street. With thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc of this book.
This is the third in the series and therefore probably best read in order. You could read it as a standalone but the story is building with each instalment and the relationships are developing. One of the strengths of this series is that it doesn't shy away from the terrible losses faced by many families and the horrors of war. There are gritty depictions of the treatment of the conscientious objectors who were imprisoned and of the difficult situation that some young women found themselves in but there are also lighter moments. Intrinsically this series is about friendship and that despite difficult times, it can still prevail. I'm looking forward to the next chapter in Street. With thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc of this book.
January 7, 2025
The Clark's Factory Girls series have become a real comfort read for me, despite the heartbreak and hardship. I feel like I'm part of the gang, a fourth musketeer, as the chaacters are so well written that they feel completely real.
In this, the third book in the series, it's 1916. The first world War is raging, and so many young men are lost, either for good, or just until they (hopefully) return. Whilst the War obviously features in this book, it's the effect it has on those still at "home" that this book is about. From standing up to those who hand out white feathers and writing to the imprisoned conscientious objectors, to the loves and losses that so many people experienced at that time.
I thought Louisa and Lucas' relationship was beautiful. I'm glad we live in a time (and place) where same sex relationships are allowed, and for the most part, accepted. But the way they saved each other through their shared love for Mattie was rather wonderful.
Although Street, and Somerset, aren't places I know particularly well, I have spent some time nearby, so small references to places I know were lovely. The girls discussion about Weston-super-Mare, and the mud made me chuckle. My son and I walked for what felt like miles in the mud so that he could have a paddle. I like to think that people have been doing that for hundreds of years.
I also enjoyed learning a little more about the Quakers, I especially loved the descriptions of holding people in the light. It brings about such beautiful imagery.
In this, the third book in the series, it's 1916. The first world War is raging, and so many young men are lost, either for good, or just until they (hopefully) return. Whilst the War obviously features in this book, it's the effect it has on those still at "home" that this book is about. From standing up to those who hand out white feathers and writing to the imprisoned conscientious objectors, to the loves and losses that so many people experienced at that time.
I thought Louisa and Lucas' relationship was beautiful. I'm glad we live in a time (and place) where same sex relationships are allowed, and for the most part, accepted. But the way they saved each other through their shared love for Mattie was rather wonderful.
Although Street, and Somerset, aren't places I know particularly well, I have spent some time nearby, so small references to places I know were lovely. The girls discussion about Weston-super-Mare, and the mud made me chuckle. My son and I walked for what felt like miles in the mud so that he could have a paddle. I like to think that people have been doing that for hundreds of years.
I also enjoyed learning a little more about the Quakers, I especially loved the descriptions of holding people in the light. It brings about such beautiful imagery.
January 14, 2025
I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources. This WWI saga follows Louisa, Kate and Jeannie, who work at the Clarks shoe factory, and this is the third book in the series.
I've read the previous two books in the series, and I enjoyed them. Initially, I wondered if it may have been helpful to revisit them again before coming to this one. Once I started reading, though, I found it didn't really matter, as the characters felt familiar to me.
I enjoyed reading about these characters again, and I feel the author presents them in a way that allows the reader to connect with all of them in some way. If you asked me which of the main characters I connected with or identified with the most, I'd find it hard to choose. I was pleased to see the return of Lucas as well, as he was one of my favourite characters from the previous books, and I hoped to see him develop further as a character.
I appreciated the bonds of friendship between the characters, and that was something that I enjoyed in the previous books as well. This lovely third instalment had some heartwarming moments, and some tearjerker moments. If you haven't read the previous books, I think this may work as a standalone, but I would recommend the previous books as well.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
I've read the previous two books in the series, and I enjoyed them. Initially, I wondered if it may have been helpful to revisit them again before coming to this one. Once I started reading, though, I found it didn't really matter, as the characters felt familiar to me.
I enjoyed reading about these characters again, and I feel the author presents them in a way that allows the reader to connect with all of them in some way. If you asked me which of the main characters I connected with or identified with the most, I'd find it hard to choose. I was pleased to see the return of Lucas as well, as he was one of my favourite characters from the previous books, and I hoped to see him develop further as a character.
I appreciated the bonds of friendship between the characters, and that was something that I enjoyed in the previous books as well. This lovely third instalment had some heartwarming moments, and some tearjerker moments. If you haven't read the previous books, I think this may work as a standalone, but I would recommend the previous books as well.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
January 13, 2025
Set against the backdrop of World War I, this heartfelt story follows three friends—Jeannie, Kate, and Louisa—who work together at the Clarks Factory in Street, Somerset, as they navigate personal struggles amidst the chaos of war.
Gerald, a pacifist Quaker recently returned from the front lines in France, battles haunting memories while adjusting to life at home. Louisa, separated from her son due to her parents' insistence, forms a bond with Lucas, a recovering soldier, while facing new challenges imposed by her family. Kate, grieving her mother’s death and her father’s betrayal, finds solace in the Quaker church and develops a connection with Gerald, who is now under scrutiny for refusing to fight.
Amid the camaraderie of factory life, the story also delves into the prejudice faced by pacifists and injured soldiers, with rising tensions symbolized by the cruel gifting of white feathers. The narrative is rich with drama, heartbreak, and hope, painting a vivid picture of wartime resilience and the strength of community.
Perfect for fans of historical sagas, this moving tale captures the emotional depth and complexities of life during war, leaving readers eager for more from this engaging series.
______
Thank you Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Gerald, a pacifist Quaker recently returned from the front lines in France, battles haunting memories while adjusting to life at home. Louisa, separated from her son due to her parents' insistence, forms a bond with Lucas, a recovering soldier, while facing new challenges imposed by her family. Kate, grieving her mother’s death and her father’s betrayal, finds solace in the Quaker church and develops a connection with Gerald, who is now under scrutiny for refusing to fight.
Amid the camaraderie of factory life, the story also delves into the prejudice faced by pacifists and injured soldiers, with rising tensions symbolized by the cruel gifting of white feathers. The narrative is rich with drama, heartbreak, and hope, painting a vivid picture of wartime resilience and the strength of community.
Perfect for fans of historical sagas, this moving tale captures the emotional depth and complexities of life during war, leaving readers eager for more from this engaging series.
______
Thank you Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 8, 2025
In the latest book in the Clarks Factory Girls series, life continues in 1916 England as World War I rages on the continent and Louisa, Jeannie, Kate, and their friends continue to negotiate the tension in their small town. Grieving Mattie’s death and constantly fighting her parents’ wishes for her to marry and move on, Louisa discovers a friend in Jeannie’s brother Lucas. Kate, having seen her friends’ struggles over the war, discovers what it means when she befriends Gerald, who had been arrested for refusing to fight, and Jeannie finds her heart and her faith at odds in this complicated community. As the girls desperately attempt to find hope in their struggles, readers too must navigate these challenging and trying moments in the village’s darkest hour. Beautifully written, emotional, and complex, the characters continue to grow and develop over the course of the novel, and May Ellis really does a fantastic job bringing these different perspectives and challenges to life in alternating chapters and multiple perspectives. Carrying the same strength and hope across the series and really bringing this small and divided community to life, this is a fantastic continuation of the series and of the stories of Kate, Jeannie, and Louisa that readers will love.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
January 19, 2025
How good it is to catch-up with The Clark’s Factory Girls in this, the third book in the series. The war in Europe is ongoing but everybody is not prepared to take up arms. In the village of Street a lot of the community are Quakers and pacifists, and up to now they could refuse to go to war but times are tough and so the government have brought in conscription. The girls find themselves writing to some of those who were arrested as conscientious objectors, and through them we learn what happened to men who found themselves in this situation.
The girls themselves continue to keep the home fires burning by working away in the Clarkes Factory. Still grieving for her beloved Mattie, Louisa finds comfort with Jeannies family where an unexpected friendship blossoms. Kate is still coming to terms with the death of her mother and Jeannie is struggling with her own dilemmas.
This is a lovely series of books, which while set in wartime Britain, looks at this historical period through a different lens than most of the stories set in this era.
Many thanks to #BoldwoodBooks and #NetGalley for my ARC of this book.
For me it a 5⭐️ book and I would encourage anyone who enjoys light historical fiction to pick this one up.
The girls themselves continue to keep the home fires burning by working away in the Clarkes Factory. Still grieving for her beloved Mattie, Louisa finds comfort with Jeannies family where an unexpected friendship blossoms. Kate is still coming to terms with the death of her mother and Jeannie is struggling with her own dilemmas.
This is a lovely series of books, which while set in wartime Britain, looks at this historical period through a different lens than most of the stories set in this era.
Many thanks to #BoldwoodBooks and #NetGalley for my ARC of this book.
For me it a 5⭐️ book and I would encourage anyone who enjoys light historical fiction to pick this one up.
December 23, 2024
The challenges continue for the the Clark Factory Girls. Their continuing struggle had me in tears. I am ashamed to whine about life when women during World War One were worth so little. This series has been such an eyeopener about the time period. The women had so little of their own but they never gave up.
Small towns aren't always a united front. I didn't realize all the animosity between the Quakers and the Anglicans. The story was a constant reminder of how we let what we don't know create such fear. Many worked for the Clarks but at the same time they looked down on them for beinging Quakers.
World War One seems as if it will never come to an end. The women are having to step up into jobs that they know they well loose when the men come home. Many women sent off their husbands away with little means of communication, with little knowledge of what might happen. It was fascinating reading about the challenges. Their struggles of survival left me stunned. Their ability to adapt was awe inspiring.
Small towns aren't always a united front. I didn't realize all the animosity between the Quakers and the Anglicans. The story was a constant reminder of how we let what we don't know create such fear. Many worked for the Clarks but at the same time they looked down on them for beinging Quakers.
World War One seems as if it will never come to an end. The women are having to step up into jobs that they know they well loose when the men come home. Many women sent off their husbands away with little means of communication, with little knowledge of what might happen. It was fascinating reading about the challenges. Their struggles of survival left me stunned. Their ability to adapt was awe inspiring.
January 9, 2025
This is both aauthor and series new to me; I'm hoping to read more in future!
As the war continues and more and more men are lost on the front, conscription is introduced frightening wives, mothers and sisters who want to keep their husbands, sons, brothers and sweethearts safe. As the girls working in Clarks factory make their way to work each day, these fears are at the forefront of their minds.
I came late to this series but don't feel as if I've missed a thing; a lot of what happened previously is covered but only in the passing and as part of the current story. While I've read a lot about the domestic side of things during both world wars, I haven't really came across much about the Quaker movement's involvement before and found that aspect particularly interesting. The lives of all the main characters progressed nicely and I shall certainly be looking out for the next book. Well-written with well developed characters and plenty going on, this is one I enjoyed. 4.5* and my recommendation.
As the war continues and more and more men are lost on the front, conscription is introduced frightening wives, mothers and sisters who want to keep their husbands, sons, brothers and sweethearts safe. As the girls working in Clarks factory make their way to work each day, these fears are at the forefront of their minds.
I came late to this series but don't feel as if I've missed a thing; a lot of what happened previously is covered but only in the passing and as part of the current story. While I've read a lot about the domestic side of things during both world wars, I haven't really came across much about the Quaker movement's involvement before and found that aspect particularly interesting. The lives of all the main characters progressed nicely and I shall certainly be looking out for the next book. Well-written with well developed characters and plenty going on, this is one I enjoyed. 4.5* and my recommendation.
December 19, 2024
Another brilliant book in the series and certainly is just as good as the others.
We continue the stories of the ups and downs of Louisa, Kate and Jeannie. Louisa is coming to terms without Mattie will she very get over him and will her parents accept what has happened. Kate starts writing to the men who consensual objectors who are in prison for not fighting in the War. Jeannie is having her heart broken but will she find true love only time will tell. The girls stick together to help each other.
I thought the book was wonderful it had sadness, happiness. It was an interesting reading the story and how the woman rallied to help in the War. There was nothing I didn’t like about the book and it certainly flowed along very nicely.
Look forward to the next book.
Would recommend this book and the whole series.
We continue the stories of the ups and downs of Louisa, Kate and Jeannie. Louisa is coming to terms without Mattie will she very get over him and will her parents accept what has happened. Kate starts writing to the men who consensual objectors who are in prison for not fighting in the War. Jeannie is having her heart broken but will she find true love only time will tell. The girls stick together to help each other.
I thought the book was wonderful it had sadness, happiness. It was an interesting reading the story and how the woman rallied to help in the War. There was nothing I didn’t like about the book and it certainly flowed along very nicely.
Look forward to the next book.
Would recommend this book and the whole series.
December 27, 2024
The Clarks Factory Girls #3
Set in 1916. Louisa is trying to come to terms with the loss of Mattie. WWI continues. Jeannie, Louisa and Kate are friends who work at Clarks factory. The country is in the grips of conscription. Kate befriends a young Quaker who had been arrested for refusing to fight. As Louisa's parents are still trying to find her a husband, she takes solace in her friendship with Jeannie's brother Lucas.
This book follows on from where book twe left off. The characters are well-developed, the story is well-written. It tells how difficult choices were made and hard times were had by all.
Published 9th January 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #MayEllis for my ARC of #DarkTimesForTheClarksFactoryGirls in exchange for an honest review.
Set in 1916. Louisa is trying to come to terms with the loss of Mattie. WWI continues. Jeannie, Louisa and Kate are friends who work at Clarks factory. The country is in the grips of conscription. Kate befriends a young Quaker who had been arrested for refusing to fight. As Louisa's parents are still trying to find her a husband, she takes solace in her friendship with Jeannie's brother Lucas.
This book follows on from where book twe left off. The characters are well-developed, the story is well-written. It tells how difficult choices were made and hard times were had by all.
Published 9th January 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #MayEllis for my ARC of #DarkTimesForTheClarksFactoryGirls in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2024
This is the third in the series and when I started reading it was like reconnecting with old friends. Louisa, Jeannie and Kate are still working at Clarks Factory while Louisa deals with her crumbling relationship with her parents, Kate is struggling with her relationship with an abusive father and Jeannie is still looking for love. The characters are very well developed and I still hate the animosity between the members of Holy Trinity Church and the Quakers. Other than that the area seems peaceful but the news of the war is always present and the worry for the young men of the town. The book didn't end on a cliffhanger but I heard there is one more book. I am looking forward to reading it but hate having to say good-bye to the girls.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood for providing me with a digital copy.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood for providing me with a digital copy.
December 28, 2024
Set in the First World War in the town of Street, dominated by Clarks shoe factory, we follow the fortunes of three young girls. Kate has escaped from her abusive father and the floozy he brought to the family home following the death of her mother; Jeannie is still the Quaker peacemaker and is attracted to a man who seems to like her and Louisa has lost the love of her life and had to make some hard choices. The war rages on and some menfolk have returned wounded, while others are still serving. And the Quaker men are conscientiously objecting and paying a heavy price for their beliefs.
Its an entertaining and interesting read, full of the social niceties and prejudices of the time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Its an entertaining and interesting read, full of the social niceties and prejudices of the time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2024
Louisa is still grieving the loss of Mattie and her parents are still trying to find her a suitable husband but Louisa wants no part in it as Mattie was her one true love. Kate is thriving and she befriends Gerald a quacker who refused to fight. Kate realises the truth depths that the nation is facing. Jeannie is torn between heart and head. Through it all the girls remain strong and their friendship steadfast. I loved being back with my three favourite friends and finding out what they have been up to. The historical facts are immersive as the story progressed I became enthralled and it was hard to put down. The characters are so lovely and yet they have each been through so much that I admire their grit and strength. The plot is exciting and makes me eager for more!
January 15, 2025
I am so lucky to have discovered yet another historical fiction series published by Boldwood Books that I just loved. While this is book three in the Clark Factory Girls, this is the first I’ve read and I had no issues following the storyline. Although I’m sure readers can guess what I did as soon as I finished book three? Yes, that’s right, I added books one and two to my TBR because I needed to know the rest of the stories. @theboldbookclub
In this latest entry, Jeannie, Louisa, and Kate are in the midst of a war in 1916, and I was simply swept away in the stories of their lives at this point in the war. I honestly haven’t read as much fiction set around WWI so I found that particularly interesting. I also didn’t know much about the lives of Quakers during the war. This novel felt well researched without reading like a textbook. The vivid details of the time period and the emotions of our main characters brought the story to life. There’s heartbreak and hardship throughout the story, but it’s also full of hope and love and I felt invested from the very start to the very end.
In this latest entry, Jeannie, Louisa, and Kate are in the midst of a war in 1916, and I was simply swept away in the stories of their lives at this point in the war. I honestly haven’t read as much fiction set around WWI so I found that particularly interesting. I also didn’t know much about the lives of Quakers during the war. This novel felt well researched without reading like a textbook. The vivid details of the time period and the emotions of our main characters brought the story to life. There’s heartbreak and hardship throughout the story, but it’s also full of hope and love and I felt invested from the very start to the very end.
January 13, 2025
With every new book in the Clark Factory Girls series, we get to know more about the characters and love or hate them even more! This third book in the series, Dark Times for the Clark Factory Girls, is very emotional. I enjoy the way the author believably develops the characters. I particularly like learning about the Quakers and how the men who wouldn't go to fight were treated. It was quite shocking.
Although set during wartime with sad moments, there were plenty of sigh-worthy moments, romantic and heartwarming. I won't give spoilers but relationships forming during this book made me smile, especially Louisa's and a particular person I never expected she would bond with.
I loved this book and can't wait for the next one in the series!
Although set during wartime with sad moments, there were plenty of sigh-worthy moments, romantic and heartwarming. I won't give spoilers but relationships forming during this book made me smile, especially Louisa's and a particular person I never expected she would bond with.
I loved this book and can't wait for the next one in the series!
January 18, 2025
Recently published, I really loved this, the 3rd book in the series and suggest strongly that the books are read in order. I am very pleased there is to be a 4th and final book in this lovely series.
The difficulties experienced with the war now claiming so many young men and the uncertain times for the women in the area and those who work for Clark's Shoe Factory are expanded in this book. Having grown very fond of the main characters I was keen to continue the series and look forward very much to the fourth book.
I'd not read any from May Ellis before I started The Clarks Factory Girls but soon enjoyed the excellent and authentic writing. I will look for more from this excellent author.
The difficulties experienced with the war now claiming so many young men and the uncertain times for the women in the area and those who work for Clark's Shoe Factory are expanded in this book. Having grown very fond of the main characters I was keen to continue the series and look forward very much to the fourth book.
I'd not read any from May Ellis before I started The Clarks Factory Girls but soon enjoyed the excellent and authentic writing. I will look for more from this excellent author.
January 11, 2025
Historical Fiction at its best. I think that this is my favorite genre. I was introduced to May Ellis a few years ago. I have enjoyed every book (this is the 3rd of the series) and loved getting to know Kate, Louisa and Jeannie even more. They work together at the Clark Factory and have become the closest of friends.
The book continues with the girls attempting to survive the losses of their loved ones. The continuing war brings more heart break and fear.
I will wait, but not so patiently, for the next book. I need to know how the girls forge ahead during these difficult times.
Thank goodness the Clark Girls have each other.
The book continues with the girls attempting to survive the losses of their loved ones. The continuing war brings more heart break and fear.
I will wait, but not so patiently, for the next book. I need to know how the girls forge ahead during these difficult times.
Thank goodness the Clark Girls have each other.
January 27, 2025
The third book in the series fits nicely with the others. While it can be read on its own, returning to the previously introduced characters allows for a smoother transition into the story.
This installment explores World War One, focusing on the Clarks factory and the lives of their families. It’s a delightful book to settle into, featuring a compelling story.
There is significant heartbreak as many men do not return home, highlighting the support each family receives and the bonds that are formed. The author skillfully brings her characters to life, making it easy for readers to connect with them
This installment explores World War One, focusing on the Clarks factory and the lives of their families. It’s a delightful book to settle into, featuring a compelling story.
There is significant heartbreak as many men do not return home, highlighting the support each family receives and the bonds that are formed. The author skillfully brings her characters to life, making it easy for readers to connect with them
January 10, 2025
Book three in The Clarks Factory Girls series from May Ellis and once again we are thrown into war-torn Somerset, and the lives of the men and women of Street, many of whom work in the Clarks shoe factory. Throughout the series, battles are being fought, on the frontline, but also in homes, where parents and children don't always see eye to eye!
I love to read about the resilience of people, towns and villages, as they dealt with the horrors which war threw at them. Despite the hardships, they battle on and usually come out smiling. May Ellis draws me into her books and makes me feel like a part of the family, and I can just imagine sitting down with them and having a cuppa and a natter in front of the fire.
The world has come a long way since the early 1900s, when women weren't allowed to work once they got married and were expected to keep house and look after the children. Sometimes it's difficult to imagine how that was even a thing!
I love my days with the girls, and I can't wait to see what May has in store for them next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls by May Ellis.
I love to read about the resilience of people, towns and villages, as they dealt with the horrors which war threw at them. Despite the hardships, they battle on and usually come out smiling. May Ellis draws me into her books and makes me feel like a part of the family, and I can just imagine sitting down with them and having a cuppa and a natter in front of the fire.
The world has come a long way since the early 1900s, when women weren't allowed to work once they got married and were expected to keep house and look after the children. Sometimes it's difficult to imagine how that was even a thing!
I love my days with the girls, and I can't wait to see what May has in store for them next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls by May Ellis.
January 27, 2025
Another good read about the girls working in the Clark’s shoe factory. Although I’ve really enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next book to be released I felt I would have preferred one big book rather than three or four shorter novels. I found this book annoyed me with repetitive mentions of what had happened to Louisa and the others in previous books etc. I’ve learned a lot about the Quaker movement from this book and had no prior knowledge of the way conscientious objectors were treated. A good historical story.
December 21, 2024
This was another page-turner. I was unable to put it down so I could find out what happened next. It's number 3 in the series but could be read as a stand-alone. I wanted to find out what happened to the girls' lives and loves. WWI continues and the men on the street have to make difficult decisions between whether to head off to war or stay at home away from war and hope for peace. The owners of Clarks Factory as well as others are Quakers and peace-loving people. With conscription coming in they would be forced to go to war whether they wanted to or not. Even if they served in the war and were home recovering they'd be given a hard time about why they weren't currently serving. I'm really looking forward to the next in the series to find out what comes next for them.
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author of this arc
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author of this arc
January 14, 2025
I absolutely love this series and a catch up with the Clarks girls is always welcome, even though the country is at war.
Dark Times is the third in the series, it works as a standalone, but I'd recommending reading as part of the series for better context, background and character development.
I love the cameraderie and spirit of the community, it shines through and their resilience is second to none.
A thoroughly enjoyable inclusion to the series.
Dark Times is the third in the series, it works as a standalone, but I'd recommending reading as part of the series for better context, background and character development.
I love the cameraderie and spirit of the community, it shines through and their resilience is second to none.
A thoroughly enjoyable inclusion to the series.
January 17, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, publishers and author for an ARC of Dark Times for the Clarks Factory Girls.
This book is the third in a series, and I haven't read the previous two so I did struggle slightly with who was who in the connections in this book at the start. But aside from that I loved this book, i will be reading the first two books, waiting (im)patiently for the fourth book, and searching other books written by this author.
Highly Recommend.
This book is the third in a series, and I haven't read the previous two so I did struggle slightly with who was who in the connections in this book at the start. But aside from that I loved this book, i will be reading the first two books, waiting (im)patiently for the fourth book, and searching other books written by this author.
Highly Recommend.
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