Lily's Choice

by May Ellis

The BRAND NEW emotional historical read from BESTSELLER May Ellis, based on real life events Living in South London, Lily has always longed for a better life for her family. And when she secures a job at a City law firm, her dreams look like they may finally come true.

But Lily’s hopes are shattered when her teenage daughter Beverley falls pregnant, with the father nowhere to be seen. Lily loves the child, but worries about Beverley and her illegitimate baby's future. The additional responsibilities of another mouth to feed begin to take their toll, and worst of all is the rift growing between Lily and her husband Jack who, despite his devotion to his family, doesn’t seem to understand Lily's feelings or everything she's been working for.

Then the opportunity for change comes in an unexpected form, and Lily must choose whether to grasp her chance of happiness with both hands, even if it could cost her dearly.

Should she risk everything for the chance at a better life?

A gripping and moving new historical novel from the author of the bestselling Clarks Factory Girls series. Perfect for fans of Kitty Neale and Rosie Clarke.

Previously published as Mine.

Join the readers who have fallen in love with May Ellis's brilliant

‘If you like Annie Murray and Margaret Dickinson you will love this.’—Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

'A fantastic historical fiction read, full of heartbreak and hope.’—Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘I enjoyed every bit of this book right from the start. The author has done a great job in this heartbreaking story. A new author for me. Superb reading right to the end.’ —Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘A gripping and emotionally resonant novel that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next instalment in the series.’—Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘An amazing and sweet story of three girls trying to deal with their families at the beginning of WWI and learning to grow up’—Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘What a wonderful book telling the story about Clarks and the families that work for Clarks. Also what a great start to a series.’—Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘A truly wonderful story of what life was like for three young ladies working in the Clark’s factory during World War One.’—Goodreads review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Genres: Historical Fiction

458 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 23, 2024

Reviews

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this fascinating and emotional new historical fiction novel, readers follow Lily, a secretary in post-World War II South London, and her family -- teenage daughter and single mother Beverley, her husband Jack, her younger daughter, and her infant granddaughter -- as they negotiate the new addition to their family and the additional responsibilities it creates at work and at home. As her relationships with Jack and Beverly grow more and more strained under these new circumstances, readers have to discover if Lily chooses a chance at a better life or remains with her family to work through the challenges. Lily is a flawed and emotionally driven protagonist, and her circumstances and challenges add a lot of tension to the novel that readers will find interesting. The atmospheric circumstances of postwar London enhance the class element and the conflict between Jack and Lily, an interesting addition to the novel and its family-centric plot and conflicts, giving readers further insight into the postwar period. With so much going on in the novel (and before the events of the novel), readers will enjoy the different perspective shifts as readers discover how Lily’s life is changing and whether it will hold up to the test of time.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lily’s Choice by Mary Ellis tells the story of Lily Wickham who wishes for a better life for herself and her family. Lily worked hard to learn the skills necessary to quit working in a factory and obtain an office job. Unfortunately, Jack, Lily’s husband, does not understand her and Lily’s eldest daughter, Beverley, seems to go out of her way to antagonize her mother. I found the story to be easy to read with leisurely pacing. The point-of-view alternates between the various characters which leads to repetitive details. It does, though, allow you to understand them and see the situation from their point of view. I thought the author captured the time period and attitudes. Lily’s Choice is an emotional story (it ran the gamut from joy to anger to sorrow), but I did find it to be a smidgen predictable. The story is a tad long (470 pages). I appreciated the author’s note at the end which explains that Lily’s Choice is a fictionalized account of a true story. Lily’s Choice is a poignant tale with a solicitous husband, a testy teenager, a striking boss, a hard to resist attraction, a difficult decision, and a shocking outcome.

[Carol Mageean · Rating 5 out of 5]

First book I have read by this author and so loved the style of writing. From page one I was engrossed - I enjoyed the story of Lily and how she wanted to better herself and family but felt disappointment with her own daughter who had a baby out of wedlock. Having been married a long time felt she had grown apart from her husband and entered into adultery with devastating consequences. It was a lovely read full of emotion. Highly recommend

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a captivating read, made all the more so, because it was based on a true story. I really felt for all sides of the story, what a situation to be in and having to make a decision that would hurt a number of people. The author really made the story flow and I was anxious to see how it all turned out. I certainly didn’t expect the ending that came. I was glad to see an epilogue that explained how everything worked out for the families. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is set in real-life South London and revolves around the main character, Lily Wickham. Lily works hard for a better life alongside her husband, Jack, their two children, and her granddaughter.

The narrative is emotional at times, which adds depth and intrigue, making it a compelling read. The writing is well-crafted, drawing you in and keeping you engaged with the question: will she or won’t she?

Overall, it’s a great story.

[Josette Garfinkiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily’s choice

Good book. It looks quite unrealistic for our days when life is dancing around 2 things only, one of them being money. Love? It’s long gone from real life.
However, I would recommend the novel if someone wants to read something light and wait for the ending.

[mrs sd shellard · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring read

What a load of rubbish I wasted time reading it .Definitely not going to read another book . And would not recommend reading it. Sorry but I found it boring I was waiting for something exciting to happen.

[Chery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Now days all the haters be hating against cheating books but it's part of life and i love that the author explored it. The turn of events was so good - one of those ....didn't see that coming moments. Loved it!!!

[Kathy Clifford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

Story that's slowly goes along but keeps you involved. I didn't expect the ending! I will certainly read this author again

[Nancy L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well-written book based on the author’s family history. It centers on Lily Wickham, who has attained a secretarial position in a solicitor’s firm, her husband Jack, a chauffeur, and their family. At this point, Lily vies for more in life, a better home etc., while Jack is quite happy with their council home and status. Though she has had a long marriage to Jack, Lily has changed greatly in her interests and goals and develops feelings for her boss, Leonard Warwick, a solicitor where she works. The story line including numerous emotional crises develops from there, both parties having children and spouses.

While the book is immersive and drew me in, it is a novelized version of a true traumatic story and left me saddened. The writing and characterizations were excellent, however.