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The World at Home
For fans of Christina Baker Kline and Fiona Davis, a coming-of-age story about a young woman discovering love, loss, and the power of her own creativity in World War II San Francisco.
San Francisco in 1944 is a bustling place, a revolving door of soldiers and sailors passing through on their way to the war in the Pacific. Twenty-year-old Irene Cleary, however, is not going anywhere. Although she’d love to travel, the seamstress shop she inherited from her mentor keeps her firmly rooted in the only city she’s ever known. She pours her energy into dressmaking and volunteers for the war effort by dancing with servicemen at the USO.
But Irene’s life is transformed when she designs a gown for Cynthia Burke, the socialite whose new marriage to Max, a handsome Chicago businessman, is the talk of the Nob Hill elite. As Irene is drawn into the Burkes’ glamorous, troubled orbit, and as she becomes absorbed in making costumes for the first American performance of a ballet called The Nutcracker, she finds herself on the threshold of exhilarating, perilous new worlds . . . and the most surprising discoveries of all will be the ones about herself.
Set in a vibrant city during a turbulent time, The World at Home is a coming-of-age story about creativity, loss, and the many lessons we learn from love.
San Francisco in 1944 is a bustling place, a revolving door of soldiers and sailors passing through on their way to the war in the Pacific. Twenty-year-old Irene Cleary, however, is not going anywhere. Although she’d love to travel, the seamstress shop she inherited from her mentor keeps her firmly rooted in the only city she’s ever known. She pours her energy into dressmaking and volunteers for the war effort by dancing with servicemen at the USO.
But Irene’s life is transformed when she designs a gown for Cynthia Burke, the socialite whose new marriage to Max, a handsome Chicago businessman, is the talk of the Nob Hill elite. As Irene is drawn into the Burkes’ glamorous, troubled orbit, and as she becomes absorbed in making costumes for the first American performance of a ballet called The Nutcracker, she finds herself on the threshold of exhilarating, perilous new worlds . . . and the most surprising discoveries of all will be the ones about herself.
Set in a vibrant city during a turbulent time, The World at Home is a coming-of-age story about creativity, loss, and the many lessons we learn from love.
344 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2025
4 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Ginny Kubitz Moyer
10 books45 followersGinny Kubitz Moyer is an author of historical fiction. Her novel A Golden Life was named one of Kirkus Reviews' Best Indie Books of 2024, and her debut novel The Seeing Garden won Silver in the 2023 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards for historical fiction. She has also written several books on women's spirituality. Ginny lives with her family in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she gardens, walks her rescue dog, and constantly searches for more bookshelf space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 22, 2025
Irene grew up in a San Francisco orphanage. Apprenticed to a seamstress who left her the business when she died, it's 1944 and Irene is 20 years old. She and her friends volunteer at the USO dances, and there she meets a sailor named Johnny. She's trying to grow her business, and is excited when Cynthia, a wealthy society woman, seeks out her services. Cynthia's husband Max is opening a nightclub in the city, and he wants Irene to help him decorate the new place. Irene is learning a lot about people, and most of all about herself. I can't resist a book about San Francisco, and this historical novel is well researched and evocative of the wartime ambiance of the City By The Bay. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
December 9, 2025
FULL REVIEW WILL BE ON DECEMBER 9.
Do Not Miss This One!!
It is 1944 San Francisco, and Irene has inherited the dress shop where she worked along with the apartment above.
She helps out at the USO by dancing with servicemen.
THE WORLD AT HOME is a sweet, nostalgic read that has us following Irene as she succeeds, finds out secrets about her family, and falls in love.
An enjoyable, hopeful, heartfelt, heartbreaking book with great descriptions about what life was like in San Francisco for young women with some wartime romance sprinkled in. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Do Not Miss This One!!
It is 1944 San Francisco, and Irene has inherited the dress shop where she worked along with the apartment above.
She helps out at the USO by dancing with servicemen.
THE WORLD AT HOME is a sweet, nostalgic read that has us following Irene as she succeeds, finds out secrets about her family, and falls in love.
An enjoyable, hopeful, heartfelt, heartbreaking book with great descriptions about what life was like in San Francisco for young women with some wartime romance sprinkled in. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2025
Omg, I LOVE Ginny Moyer's new novel!! 😍❤️
Rating: 10🌟!
'𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘖𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘳, 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘨𝘨𝘺 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳. 𝘉𝘶𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨.'
The World at Home is a tender and touching wartime romance that must be savored like a decadent chocolate truffle. I was enchanted by the very first page!
WHAT I LOVED MOST:
❤️ Orphan female protagonist
❤️ Lovely, intelligent, talented Irene
❤️ The fascinating world of a seamstress
❤️ Sewing/clothing descriptions
❤️ Paper dolls and childhood memories
❤️ Living above a shop
❤️ Lost loves and wartime friendships
❤️ Captivating conversations
❤️ Cozy descriptions of clothing, food and everyday living
Once I was immersed in this wonderful world, I didn’t want to leave! Ginny is absolutely amazing at creating complex characters and gorgeous descriptions that are impossible to forget—in the very best way! I'm incredibly grateful for this ARC—I don't know if I could have waited until December to read it! 😅
Highly, highly recommended!
Note: If you haven’t already read Ginny’s novels, you MUST go out and buy all of them ASAP! They're wonderful!
Rating: 10🌟!
'𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘖𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘳, 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘨𝘨𝘺 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳. 𝘉𝘶𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨.'
The World at Home is a tender and touching wartime romance that must be savored like a decadent chocolate truffle. I was enchanted by the very first page!
WHAT I LOVED MOST:
❤️ Orphan female protagonist
❤️ Lovely, intelligent, talented Irene
❤️ The fascinating world of a seamstress
❤️ Sewing/clothing descriptions
❤️ Paper dolls and childhood memories
❤️ Living above a shop
❤️ Lost loves and wartime friendships
❤️ Captivating conversations
❤️ Cozy descriptions of clothing, food and everyday living
Once I was immersed in this wonderful world, I didn’t want to leave! Ginny is absolutely amazing at creating complex characters and gorgeous descriptions that are impossible to forget—in the very best way! I'm incredibly grateful for this ARC—I don't know if I could have waited until December to read it! 😅
Highly, highly recommended!
Note: If you haven’t already read Ginny’s novels, you MUST go out and buy all of them ASAP! They're wonderful!
November 17, 2025
This is well written, well researched, and captivating. I truly loved it. I loved the descriptions of San Francisco during those times and what it was like to live there, and the details of the clothing. I thought the characters were well drawn and authentic. I loved reading about Irene and her career as a seamstress and seeing her evolve as a woman. Such a great read. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it was beautifully written, it had engaging characters and the story itself was everything, heartbreaking, sad, joyous, and hopeful. The story of twenty year old orphan , Irene Cleary working as a seamstress in a store she inherited in San Francisco in 1944, was a great story, I would love to read a possible sequel. Irene did a dress redesign for a socialite in the San Francisco area, and it opened up a new world for her, exposing her to the good and bad of higher society, it was an enlightening experience for her, she discovered things about these people that made her reflect on her own life, and she also experienced life altering experiences of her own. The story concludes with Irene a bit wiser, more experienced with life but all in all optimistic about her future. I would highly recommend this story for anyone looking for a book involving a young woman who is good hearted, hard working and passionate about her future.
September 2, 2025
This interesting and wonderful WWII novel is set to release in December and I believe everyone will indeed want to get their hands on this novel! It is different from most because it doesn't focus entirely on the war and in a way it is considered a coming of age story. The main heroine is a youbg woman who spent her life on a Orphanage and is now an adult trying to find her place and purpose in the world. Although some of her hurdles in this journey include falling in love with the wrong person.
We are introduced to Irene who spent her life growing up with no family. She eventually becomes apprenticed to a seamtress and later on comes to inherit the business. She manages to build a name for herself attracting wealthy clients. However, despite this sucess her own love life is a whirlwind. She strikes up an affair with a married man which could result in public scandal if found out. However, when the seasons change and the relationship dwindles will she be able to hold on to the connection that she built?
We are introduced to Irene who spent her life growing up with no family. She eventually becomes apprenticed to a seamtress and later on comes to inherit the business. She manages to build a name for herself attracting wealthy clients. However, despite this sucess her own love life is a whirlwind. She strikes up an affair with a married man which could result in public scandal if found out. However, when the seasons change and the relationship dwindles will she be able to hold on to the connection that she built?
November 30, 2025
Ginny Kubitz Moyer, the Author of “The World At Home” has written a captivating and impressive Historical Fiction Novel that takes place during World War Two. The setting for this memorable and well written novel is San Francisco. The author vividly describes the location, setting, plot, and colorful, dramatic, complex, flawed and complicated characters. The Genres for this novel are World War Two Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction, and Coming of Age.
The female protagonist of the story, Irene Cleary, is twenty years old, and grew up in an orphanage. She has a very good friend that she was able to spend time with and her family. The Sisters in the Orphanage were kind to Irene. As a young woman, Irene inherits both the apartment and the sewing store, where she is a seamstress and dressmaker from the woman she was an apprentice for. Many of the soldiers are leaving for war, and Irene volunteers at a local USO to help the men feel more at ease. At the same time, Irene notices changes in the neighborhood, when her Japanese neighbor is forced to move. Irene is also helping to make costumes for a ballet company that is doing the Nutcracker.
Irene’s luck changes when she is asked to hem and make a dress over for a wealthy woman in the Nob Hill area. The woman’s husband, Max, recognizes Irene’s talent and loneliness. He asks her to help decorate a nightclub. Irene is getting more requests after she does the work for the wife. Somehow everything becomes complicated when Irene starts to work for the woman and her husband.
Irene is mourning the loss of a young soldier that she had fallen in love with. Max comes to her rescue at a dance when a young man becomes too aggressive.Irene goes to visit the church where she grew up, and discovers her identity, which is a major shock to her. Irene starts to have a different view of home and the world.
I appreciate how the author discusses the effects of war on people, and their relationships. The author also reflects on the importance of finding oneself, having courage to be oneself, having friendships, hope and love. This is such an amazing heartfelt memorable and thought provoking book, that I highly recommend to other readers.
The female protagonist of the story, Irene Cleary, is twenty years old, and grew up in an orphanage. She has a very good friend that she was able to spend time with and her family. The Sisters in the Orphanage were kind to Irene. As a young woman, Irene inherits both the apartment and the sewing store, where she is a seamstress and dressmaker from the woman she was an apprentice for. Many of the soldiers are leaving for war, and Irene volunteers at a local USO to help the men feel more at ease. At the same time, Irene notices changes in the neighborhood, when her Japanese neighbor is forced to move. Irene is also helping to make costumes for a ballet company that is doing the Nutcracker.
Irene’s luck changes when she is asked to hem and make a dress over for a wealthy woman in the Nob Hill area. The woman’s husband, Max, recognizes Irene’s talent and loneliness. He asks her to help decorate a nightclub. Irene is getting more requests after she does the work for the wife. Somehow everything becomes complicated when Irene starts to work for the woman and her husband.
Irene is mourning the loss of a young soldier that she had fallen in love with. Max comes to her rescue at a dance when a young man becomes too aggressive.Irene goes to visit the church where she grew up, and discovers her identity, which is a major shock to her. Irene starts to have a different view of home and the world.
I appreciate how the author discusses the effects of war on people, and their relationships. The author also reflects on the importance of finding oneself, having courage to be oneself, having friendships, hope and love. This is such an amazing heartfelt memorable and thought provoking book, that I highly recommend to other readers.
December 18, 2025
" You don't always know when a kiss is the last kiss. You don't always get to decide." From - The World at Home"
This book was so interesting that I read it in only one day. I couldn't put it down! The pages just flew by!
It was set in 1944, which was a little odd since I think some of the things the author talks about happen earlier in the war. The first couple of chapters of the book were a bit slow, but it still kept my interest. And I am delighted I kept reading. This author led me down paths I never saw coming.
Irene Cleary, an orphan left at a week old at an orphanage, had always known that her parents had loved her, but just couldn't take care of her.
As mentioned in the summary, this is a coming-of-age novel. It is also a novel of self-discovery, heartbreak (keep your tissues handy for the last quarter of the book!), and determination.
This would be an excellent read for a book club -there is a lot in this book that would make for interesting discussions.
*ARC supplied by the publisher She Writes Press, the author, and ATTL/Edelweiss.
This book was so interesting that I read it in only one day. I couldn't put it down! The pages just flew by!
It was set in 1944, which was a little odd since I think some of the things the author talks about happen earlier in the war. The first couple of chapters of the book were a bit slow, but it still kept my interest. And I am delighted I kept reading. This author led me down paths I never saw coming.
Irene Cleary, an orphan left at a week old at an orphanage, had always known that her parents had loved her, but just couldn't take care of her.
As mentioned in the summary, this is a coming-of-age novel. It is also a novel of self-discovery, heartbreak (keep your tissues handy for the last quarter of the book!), and determination.
This would be an excellent read for a book club -there is a lot in this book that would make for interesting discussions.
*ARC supplied by the publisher She Writes Press, the author, and ATTL/Edelweiss.
December 18, 2025
" You don't always know when a kiss is the last kiss. You don't always get to decide." From - The World at Home"
This book was so interesting that I read it in only one day. I couldn't put it down! The pages just flew by!
It was set in 1944, which was a little odd since I think some of the things the author talks about happen earlier in the war. The first couple of chapters of the book were a bit slow, but it still kept my interest. And I am delighted I kept reading. This author led me down paths I never saw coming.
Irene Cleary, an orphan left at a week old at an orphanage, had always known that her parents had loved her, but just couldn't take care of her.
As mentioned in the summary, this is a coming-of-age novel. It is also a novel of self-discovery, heartbreak (keep your tissues handy for the last quarter of the book!), and determination.
This would be an excellent read for a book club -there is a lot in this book that would make for interesting discussions.
*ARC supplied by the publisher She Writes Press, the author, andATTL/Edelweiss
This book was so interesting that I read it in only one day. I couldn't put it down! The pages just flew by!
It was set in 1944, which was a little odd since I think some of the things the author talks about happen earlier in the war. The first couple of chapters of the book were a bit slow, but it still kept my interest. And I am delighted I kept reading. This author led me down paths I never saw coming.
Irene Cleary, an orphan left at a week old at an orphanage, had always known that her parents had loved her, but just couldn't take care of her.
As mentioned in the summary, this is a coming-of-age novel. It is also a novel of self-discovery, heartbreak (keep your tissues handy for the last quarter of the book!), and determination.
This would be an excellent read for a book club -there is a lot in this book that would make for interesting discussions.
*ARC supplied by the publisher She Writes Press, the author, andATTL/Edelweiss
December 9, 2025
5.0
*Thank you to chsummie for including me on this tour! Excellent book!
Gown, vibrant, San Francisco…
Wartime!
Stateside…
20yo Irene, who grew up in a CA orphanage now works as a seamstress in a dress shop she inherited. She also dances and makes coffee at the local USO as her part of the war effort.
A tale of coming of age, personal growth, turbulence, entanglement, 1st love, loss, and grief.
Watch as Irene “goes through the process of self-improvement through which she develops new skills, attitudes, and behaviors.”
THOUGHTS:
*SO GOOD!
*MFC Irene is stronger than she thinks!
*All the feels!
*Beautifully written about wartime atmosphere and mood. What a generation!
*Historical fiction fans will love this. A blend of joy & melancholy. Significant life events.
*I always enjoy reading a book about a place I have visited. I enjoyed reading about San Francisco locations I visited including Coit Tower, Pt Reyes, Haight Ashbury, Palace of Fine Arts, Lombard St, Golden Gate Park, Chinatown etc , etc, etc! San Francisco was described so vividly, I felt like I was back! I have visited 5 times. Hubby shipped out of San Fran.
*Thank you to chsummie for including me on this tour! Excellent book!
Gown, vibrant, San Francisco…
Wartime!
Stateside…
20yo Irene, who grew up in a CA orphanage now works as a seamstress in a dress shop she inherited. She also dances and makes coffee at the local USO as her part of the war effort.
A tale of coming of age, personal growth, turbulence, entanglement, 1st love, loss, and grief.
Watch as Irene “goes through the process of self-improvement through which she develops new skills, attitudes, and behaviors.”
THOUGHTS:
*SO GOOD!
*MFC Irene is stronger than she thinks!
*All the feels!
*Beautifully written about wartime atmosphere and mood. What a generation!
*Historical fiction fans will love this. A blend of joy & melancholy. Significant life events.
*I always enjoy reading a book about a place I have visited. I enjoyed reading about San Francisco locations I visited including Coit Tower, Pt Reyes, Haight Ashbury, Palace of Fine Arts, Lombard St, Golden Gate Park, Chinatown etc , etc, etc! San Francisco was described so vividly, I felt like I was back! I have visited 5 times. Hubby shipped out of San Fran.
October 24, 2025
It had troubled me, the war, in a way that was more than blackouts and rationing. It had stretched its tentacles and latched onto my limbs like some awful creature, trapping me, keeping me in bed. from The World at Home
Irene had the talent and drive to make a life. She grew up in an orphanage but the sisters were kind and supportive, and helped her gain the skill sets and belief in herself for success.
Irene worked as a seamstress and inherited her employer’s business. Providentially, she landed a job for a wealthy client, opening her way into a lucrative career as a dressmaker for the upper class.
Irene always felt like an outsider, but never more with her entree into this new world of privilege and money. But it was this very trait that a client’s husband, Max, recognized, for he was a self-made man and understood.
Max hires Irene to help him decorate his newest business venture, a bar, bringing friendship and understanding, and eventually, more. For Max’s marriage is breaking up and Irene is still reeling from the loss of a soldier she met at the USO, a man who claimed he loved her and would come back for her after the war.
Set in San Francisco during WWII, the novel captures the city and the time. Irene dances with soldiers at the USO, while other girls go home with the men. The shortage of fabric impacts high society and working women alike, Irene remaking men’s suits into women’s, and updates ball gowns and wedding dresses.
Evenings, Irene volunteers to help the ballet company prepare for the first performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, turning red velvet drapes into soldier’s uniforms and sewing up tulle tutus.
Only twenty years old, Irene contends with questions about her parents, why her beloved has not answered her letters, and how to navigate a passion for a married man.
I found Irene an affecting character, her journey into adulthood beautifully portrayed. For all her losses, Irene grows into a stronger woman, ready to take on the world. She embraces the questions and knows that love is never without rewards, even when love ends.
Thanks to Caitlin Hamilton Summie Marketing and She Writes Press for an ARC.
Irene had the talent and drive to make a life. She grew up in an orphanage but the sisters were kind and supportive, and helped her gain the skill sets and belief in herself for success.
Irene worked as a seamstress and inherited her employer’s business. Providentially, she landed a job for a wealthy client, opening her way into a lucrative career as a dressmaker for the upper class.
Irene always felt like an outsider, but never more with her entree into this new world of privilege and money. But it was this very trait that a client’s husband, Max, recognized, for he was a self-made man and understood.
Max hires Irene to help him decorate his newest business venture, a bar, bringing friendship and understanding, and eventually, more. For Max’s marriage is breaking up and Irene is still reeling from the loss of a soldier she met at the USO, a man who claimed he loved her and would come back for her after the war.
Set in San Francisco during WWII, the novel captures the city and the time. Irene dances with soldiers at the USO, while other girls go home with the men. The shortage of fabric impacts high society and working women alike, Irene remaking men’s suits into women’s, and updates ball gowns and wedding dresses.
Evenings, Irene volunteers to help the ballet company prepare for the first performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, turning red velvet drapes into soldier’s uniforms and sewing up tulle tutus.
Only twenty years old, Irene contends with questions about her parents, why her beloved has not answered her letters, and how to navigate a passion for a married man.
I found Irene an affecting character, her journey into adulthood beautifully portrayed. For all her losses, Irene grows into a stronger woman, ready to take on the world. She embraces the questions and knows that love is never without rewards, even when love ends.
Thanks to Caitlin Hamilton Summie Marketing and She Writes Press for an ARC.
December 14, 2025
This well written and well researched novel took readers back to San Francisco in 1944. The war was still going and San Francisco was full of soldiers passing through on their way to the war in the Pacific. San Francisco is a lovely city but definitely has a major division between the rich and the working class.
The main character is twenty-year-old Irene Cleary. She grew up in a Catholic orphanage where she was dropped off as a baby. She apprenticed at a seamstress shop and when the owner died, she left the shop and the apartment above the shop to Irene. She spends her days sewing and designing dresses and many of her evenings are spent at the USO dancing with serviceman. She gets a big break in her life when she is asked to design a gown for a Nob Hill socialite. Buying material during the war was very difficult and women often had older dresses re-designed into new dresses. This is the first time that she ever had a wealthy customer and she was thrilled to work for Cynthia and her husband Max. They recommended her to other wealthy people in the city and soon she is drawn into a different life. Max realizes that she is lonely and asks her to help design a nightclub that he has just purchased. Soon she is caught up in his orbit which changes her life in unexpected ways. She soon realizes that she is seeing her life differently. Will her life be spent with the rich or will she realize where she is really the happiest?
One very interesting tie in to real history is that Irene begins to make costumes for the first ever ballet presentation of The Nutcracker. In the author's notes, she gives us the story behind the costumes for the ballet and the fact that the 143 costumes were designed by a 19 year old. "Although Irene is a fictional character, she represents the pitch-in -and-help-spirit of the volunteers" who made a difference in San Francisco during this time.
This beautifully written book will transport your mind to San Francisco with well written characters who you soon care about - characters who are flawed yet caring and helpful as you see them go through their loves and hopes and loves.
The main character is twenty-year-old Irene Cleary. She grew up in a Catholic orphanage where she was dropped off as a baby. She apprenticed at a seamstress shop and when the owner died, she left the shop and the apartment above the shop to Irene. She spends her days sewing and designing dresses and many of her evenings are spent at the USO dancing with serviceman. She gets a big break in her life when she is asked to design a gown for a Nob Hill socialite. Buying material during the war was very difficult and women often had older dresses re-designed into new dresses. This is the first time that she ever had a wealthy customer and she was thrilled to work for Cynthia and her husband Max. They recommended her to other wealthy people in the city and soon she is drawn into a different life. Max realizes that she is lonely and asks her to help design a nightclub that he has just purchased. Soon she is caught up in his orbit which changes her life in unexpected ways. She soon realizes that she is seeing her life differently. Will her life be spent with the rich or will she realize where she is really the happiest?
One very interesting tie in to real history is that Irene begins to make costumes for the first ever ballet presentation of The Nutcracker. In the author's notes, she gives us the story behind the costumes for the ballet and the fact that the 143 costumes were designed by a 19 year old. "Although Irene is a fictional character, she represents the pitch-in -and-help-spirit of the volunteers" who made a difference in San Francisco during this time.
This beautifully written book will transport your mind to San Francisco with well written characters who you soon care about - characters who are flawed yet caring and helpful as you see them go through their loves and hopes and loves.
November 30, 2025
I read an ARC. Irene Cleary is a seamstress. She is an orphan and was raised in an orphanage (and had positive experiences there with caring nuns as her caregivers. I know that many orphanages were/are terrible places, but it was refreshing to read of a positive experience.) Irene lives in San Francisco, and the world is in the midst of World War II. Irene gets the opportunity to remake a dress for a socialite Cynthia Burke. She meets Cynthia and Cynthia's husband Max, and Max asks Irene to help him design/decorate the new club he plans to open.
I predicted early on what would happen between Irene and Max, and I hoped I was wrong. I don't ever think it's okay to have an affair, and I was disappointed that their relationship developed no matter what the circumstances were. However, I did appreciate that Moyer shows that the infidelity which takes place in the book has consequences and causes a great deal of pain and difficulty. I don't agree that war (or other circumstances) makes infidelity or other behaviors okay. I know it happens and I know it is even more prevalent today, but it causes so much heartbreak and pain to so many.
I liked Irene. Despite my frustration with the situation, I liked Max. I loved Sister Margaret and her wisdom: "Tenderness is tied in with all that is good in life. Things like hope, and faith. The ability to feel what another person feels. To care about things, and people." (page 307) I liked the exploration of how your past and your parents' choices shape you and whether you have to be defined by their choices. I loved that Irene helps with the ballet and finds beauty there. I love that when she is confronted by Cynthia and could have caused Cythia pain and embarrassment, she chooses to rise above. While I don't agree with some of her choices, there is much goodness in her. I love that Irene was well developed. And the story made me love San Francisco...
I predicted early on what would happen between Irene and Max, and I hoped I was wrong. I don't ever think it's okay to have an affair, and I was disappointed that their relationship developed no matter what the circumstances were. However, I did appreciate that Moyer shows that the infidelity which takes place in the book has consequences and causes a great deal of pain and difficulty. I don't agree that war (or other circumstances) makes infidelity or other behaviors okay. I know it happens and I know it is even more prevalent today, but it causes so much heartbreak and pain to so many.
I liked Irene. Despite my frustration with the situation, I liked Max. I loved Sister Margaret and her wisdom: "Tenderness is tied in with all that is good in life. Things like hope, and faith. The ability to feel what another person feels. To care about things, and people." (page 307) I liked the exploration of how your past and your parents' choices shape you and whether you have to be defined by their choices. I loved that Irene helps with the ballet and finds beauty there. I love that when she is confronted by Cynthia and could have caused Cythia pain and embarrassment, she chooses to rise above. While I don't agree with some of her choices, there is much goodness in her. I love that Irene was well developed. And the story made me love San Francisco...
February 9, 2026
I've lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for decades, but Ginny Kubitz Moyer's The World at Home conjured up a San Francisco I never knew existed—a city full of beauty, energy, and promise, perched on the edge of a continent and, in 1944, playing host to tens of thousands of young enlisted men sailing out to action in the Pacific, some for the last time.
I say this because the city is an invisible character in The World at Home. The protagonist, a young woman named Irene Cleary, was raised in an orphanage in San Francisco and now owns a small sewing shop she inherited from her employer. Irene's work takes her to Nob Hill, where she works for a wealthy socialite, and to the San Francisco Opera House, where she sews costumes for the first ever production of The Nutcracker ballet. Outside of work, Irene volunteers at the USO, dancing and socializing with young servicemen who come from all over the United States, and she sees the city she has always known through their eyes.
Irene, who narrates the book, is a delightful guide both through a city she loves and through her own life, which intersects with everyone from wealthy, aristocratic families who rely on her to make them look their best, to ballet dancers and from childhood friends to the hundreds of servicemen she meets at the USO. In the author's capable hands, she feels like a real, three-dimensional young woman—alternating between confidence and self-doubt, full of hopes and dreams and an irrepressible vitality. And as she moves through bustling wartime San Francisco, she compels us to consider the same questions that she grapples with: how to live a decent life when the world seems to be upside down, how to make sense of unfathomable loss, how to be true to yourself while remaining loyal to others, and most importantly, how to find and hold onto beauty.
A joyful, poignant, beautifully crafted book. I was sorry to see it end.
I say this because the city is an invisible character in The World at Home. The protagonist, a young woman named Irene Cleary, was raised in an orphanage in San Francisco and now owns a small sewing shop she inherited from her employer. Irene's work takes her to Nob Hill, where she works for a wealthy socialite, and to the San Francisco Opera House, where she sews costumes for the first ever production of The Nutcracker ballet. Outside of work, Irene volunteers at the USO, dancing and socializing with young servicemen who come from all over the United States, and she sees the city she has always known through their eyes.
Irene, who narrates the book, is a delightful guide both through a city she loves and through her own life, which intersects with everyone from wealthy, aristocratic families who rely on her to make them look their best, to ballet dancers and from childhood friends to the hundreds of servicemen she meets at the USO. In the author's capable hands, she feels like a real, three-dimensional young woman—alternating between confidence and self-doubt, full of hopes and dreams and an irrepressible vitality. And as she moves through bustling wartime San Francisco, she compels us to consider the same questions that she grapples with: how to live a decent life when the world seems to be upside down, how to make sense of unfathomable loss, how to be true to yourself while remaining loyal to others, and most importantly, how to find and hold onto beauty.
A joyful, poignant, beautifully crafted book. I was sorry to see it end.
December 5, 2025
During World War II, San Francisco was the second busiest port for with over 1.6 million military personnel sent overseas. In 1944, 20-year-old Irene Mary Cleary is doing her part by volunteering, along with her best friend Trixie, at the USO dances. By day, Irene manages her own seamstress shop, which she inherited from Anna, the kind woman who mentored her after growing up in a Catholic orphanage. When Irene is summoned to Nob Hill to redesign a dress for Cynthia
Burke, one of the area's most renowned socialites, she is thrilled at the chance to expand her
business among San Francisco's affluent women. Although her work is well-received, she finds herself becoming too close to the family, including Cynthia's handsome husband, Max. Irene also dedicates her time and skills to the ballet, a favorite of Anna's, and becomes involved in creating costumes for the American premiere of The Nutcracker. She also meets Johnny, a young serviceman about to ship out, who opens up her heart.
Ginny Kubitz Moyer's The World at Home is a beautiful coming-of-age story. Irene is a compassionate, smart, and resilient young woman who has endured significant challenges having never known her parents. All the people she has come in contact with, from the nuns at the orphanage to Anna and her friend Trixie, have helped her form an inner strength. This strength is put to the test when she becomes entangled with the Burkes.
Many thanks to She Writes Press for providing an advance of this engaging book that captures the grandeur of the San Francisco Bay Area during wartime.
4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Burke, one of the area's most renowned socialites, she is thrilled at the chance to expand her
business among San Francisco's affluent women. Although her work is well-received, she finds herself becoming too close to the family, including Cynthia's handsome husband, Max. Irene also dedicates her time and skills to the ballet, a favorite of Anna's, and becomes involved in creating costumes for the American premiere of The Nutcracker. She also meets Johnny, a young serviceman about to ship out, who opens up her heart.
Ginny Kubitz Moyer's The World at Home is a beautiful coming-of-age story. Irene is a compassionate, smart, and resilient young woman who has endured significant challenges having never known her parents. All the people she has come in contact with, from the nuns at the orphanage to Anna and her friend Trixie, have helped her form an inner strength. This strength is put to the test when she becomes entangled with the Burkes.
Many thanks to She Writes Press for providing an advance of this engaging book that captures the grandeur of the San Francisco Bay Area during wartime.
4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
December 14, 2025
I loved how this story was told from someone in San Fransisco during WWII and seeing all that was happening with the ship yards and soldiers constantly coming in to ship out. Irene a local seamstress has been volunteering at the USO to help with her part in the war effort. Although she feels the impact of war everyday with food rationing as well as less fabric, more make over products than new being tailored and one of her favorite Japanese fabric places has been closed down. She fears for that family. There are rules to volunteer at the USO and Irene doesn't want to lose her spot, until one sailor catches her eye. It's a love at first sight and a whirlwind of a weekend romance, but after he ships out then she hears nothing. Trying to move on, Irene continues her work trying to stay afloat when she gets an unexpected client from the upper end. She is quickly pulled into this society and then Cynthia's husband seeing she has a keen eye, has asked for her help in doing the interior design of a new bar he is opening. Agreeing to the outrageous ask, she is stepping out of her comfort zone and before she knows it, she is tangled up in their lives more than she could ever have expected. When working with Max, it often brings back memories of Johnny. Was it all just a fantasy that would have never worked out anyways? She comes from a different world than all of these people having been an orphan but in the end does that really matter? Some people are all about appearances and others are about working hard to get what you want. Really loved this novel and reading about San Francisco in the 1940's. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the tour invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
January 17, 2026
Irene, heroine of The World At Home by Ginny Kibutz Moyer, takes us with her on a coming-of-age exploration that is at once eye-opening in its vivid uniqueness and completely believable and relatable. Irene, an orphan on her own in the big city, makes the most of one stroke of luck – inheriting a humble seamstress business. She is at once pragmatic and skilled, with a blossoming artist/designer sensibility that gets her noticed by important clientele.
From her first glimpse into the snobbish, structured world of upper class San Francisco in 1944, she quickly gets in over her head, learning more than is safe to know about the families for whom she provides tailoring services. One of these, a sexy man of the world with a cold, unfaithful wife, sees quirky talent in Irene and hires her to design the interior of his upscale nightclub. Complications ensue.
Moyer’s dialogue, and the circumstances in which Irene finds herself, are refreshingly real and enticing. The portrait of the city itself and its suburbs 80 years ago really spark the reader’s senses – immersive historical fiction. I couldn’t wait to get to my book at the end of the day and see how plucky, thoughtful Irene was going to move forward without ruining everything.
From her first glimpse into the snobbish, structured world of upper class San Francisco in 1944, she quickly gets in over her head, learning more than is safe to know about the families for whom she provides tailoring services. One of these, a sexy man of the world with a cold, unfaithful wife, sees quirky talent in Irene and hires her to design the interior of his upscale nightclub. Complications ensue.
Moyer’s dialogue, and the circumstances in which Irene finds herself, are refreshingly real and enticing. The portrait of the city itself and its suburbs 80 years ago really spark the reader’s senses – immersive historical fiction. I couldn’t wait to get to my book at the end of the day and see how plucky, thoughtful Irene was going to move forward without ruining everything.
November 17, 2025
I loved this book. I could not put it down! This novel was about love and acceptance of self and others. I love to read about strong women, San Francisco, WWII history, and The Nutcracker Ballet. Wow! And they were all in the same book.
Irene Cleary was the strong woman that took the reader on an emotional journey like the carousel at a park that takes the reader around and around and up and down through the streets of San Francisco during the end of World War II, while she balances her life (friends, The USO, The 1st Nutcracker Ballet as she volunteers to be their seamstress, a decorator of a bar, the men and women who are outsiders and insiders and how to balance and function in all the parts of her life.
Some of my favorite quotes from this novel were -
"There were stars and there were snowflakes, a sky full of them, delicate and light. In the footlights they danced, whirling for a brief moment in time, filling the world and me with grace and more grace."
"And it suddenly occurred to me that as solitary as I've been for much of my life, when I'm creating something I'm excited about I never feel lonely."
Irene Cleary was the strong woman that took the reader on an emotional journey like the carousel at a park that takes the reader around and around and up and down through the streets of San Francisco during the end of World War II, while she balances her life (friends, The USO, The 1st Nutcracker Ballet as she volunteers to be their seamstress, a decorator of a bar, the men and women who are outsiders and insiders and how to balance and function in all the parts of her life.
Some of my favorite quotes from this novel were -
"There were stars and there were snowflakes, a sky full of them, delicate and light. In the footlights they danced, whirling for a brief moment in time, filling the world and me with grace and more grace."
"And it suddenly occurred to me that as solitary as I've been for much of my life, when I'm creating something I'm excited about I never feel lonely."
December 8, 2025
This author creates some amazing characters and Irene is one I will not soon forget. Irene was raised in an orphanage and now she owns her own sewing shop. She has definitely pulled herself up by her bootstraps. But she also makes mistakes and you cannot help but be drawn to her, flaws and all!
Then there is the setting! 1940s San Francisco is an amazing place. I am huge fan of San Fran. As a matter of fact, the background photo was taken by me a few years ago. Needless to say, I enjoyed learning about this time period with the troops and the night life, the rations and the Nutcracker Ballet.
And finally this story will keep you glued to the pages with good and bad choices, great characters and fabulous writing. You do not want to miss this!
Not only is this a 5 star read for me, so is the first book I read by this author, A Golden Life. Add that one to your list as well!
Need a story about love, loss and new beginnings…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from for a honest review.
Then there is the setting! 1940s San Francisco is an amazing place. I am huge fan of San Fran. As a matter of fact, the background photo was taken by me a few years ago. Needless to say, I enjoyed learning about this time period with the troops and the night life, the rations and the Nutcracker Ballet.
And finally this story will keep you glued to the pages with good and bad choices, great characters and fabulous writing. You do not want to miss this!
Not only is this a 5 star read for me, so is the first book I read by this author, A Golden Life. Add that one to your list as well!
Need a story about love, loss and new beginnings…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from for a honest review.
December 28, 2025
This is a beautiful blend of a woman’s coming-of-age and a historical walk through San Francisco during the 1944 wartime climate.
Irene, at only twenty years old, is a gifted dress designer and owner of a seamstress shop. She and her friend also make time to volunteer at the USO, meeting and dancing with hundreds of servicemen on shore leave.
Irene's dressmaking skills allow her to become involved with socialites and even to design costumes for the first American performance of The Nutcracker ballet. It’s a world she never dreamed of being a part of.
The book is incredibly atmospheric, not only in the rich descriptions of San Francisco but also in the vivid descriptions of the materials, textiles, color schemes, and designs that Irene used in her work.
Irene faces losses, temptations, and trials, but her perseverance, creativity, and maturity are admirable—a compelling and spirited wartime story.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @moyerginny for the gifted book.
November 25, 2025
Ginny Moyer has done it again! This compelling coming-of-age story unfolds in San Francisco during WWII. As Moyer reveals in her Author's Note, the novel's genesis came from discovering that San Francisco was the first American city to stage The Nutcracker ballet. During wartime rationing, costumes were ingeniously crafted from salvaged fabrics. From this historical detail, Moyer imagines Irene, a young orphaned seamstress raised by loving nuns, who now finds herself navigating the complexities of the wider world—including romance, sexuality, and class divisions—all against the poignant backdrop of wartime sacrifice and loss.
I love that so many characters are flawed, yet no one is a villain. I love Irene’s resilience and humility and integrity. Many luscious descriptions, too. As a Northern California resident, I love that her well-researched historical fiction focuses on our region’s history.
I love that so many characters are flawed, yet no one is a villain. I love Irene’s resilience and humility and integrity. Many luscious descriptions, too. As a Northern California resident, I love that her well-researched historical fiction focuses on our region’s history.
December 1, 2025
Irene, a 20 year old seamstress, owns her late boss's shop in San Francisco during the end of WW2. She volunteers for the USO, dancing with soldiers on leave or shipping out soon to help give them good memories as they go off to war.
She re-designs a dress for a socialite, Cynthia and she sends her other socialite friends for repairs or new designs. She also becomes the designer for Max, Cynthia's husband, and a new nightclub he wants to open. They start to spend a lot of time together.
Irene learns a lot about herself as she navigates this season in her life. I honestly loved how she volunteered her time. I love that she also got to help with costumes for The Nutcracker which is the first time it plays in the US (definitely read the author's note on why she wanted to write this into the book). Lovely HF story.
She re-designs a dress for a socialite, Cynthia and she sends her other socialite friends for repairs or new designs. She also becomes the designer for Max, Cynthia's husband, and a new nightclub he wants to open. They start to spend a lot of time together.
Irene learns a lot about herself as she navigates this season in her life. I honestly loved how she volunteered her time. I love that she also got to help with costumes for The Nutcracker which is the first time it plays in the US (definitely read the author's note on why she wanted to write this into the book). Lovely HF story.
December 12, 2025
Set in San Francisco in 1944, this novel follows Irene Cleary, a twenty-year-old orphan who’s built a life for herself as a talented seamstress. After inheriting the shop where she once apprenticed, Irene begins to make a name among wealthy clients—while navigating loneliness, love, and a world reshaped by war.
From volunteering at the USO to witnessing the heartbreaking displacement of her Japanese neighbors, Irene’s story is layered with grief, hope, and resilience. When a job for an influential couple pulls her into a glamorous but complicated world, everything she’s worked for—and believes about herself—begins to shift.
Beautifully written and deeply emotional, this is a heartfelt, thought-provoking read about ambition, belonging, and finding light in dark times.
If you love quiet, emotional historical fiction… don’t miss this one.
From volunteering at the USO to witnessing the heartbreaking displacement of her Japanese neighbors, Irene’s story is layered with grief, hope, and resilience. When a job for an influential couple pulls her into a glamorous but complicated world, everything she’s worked for—and believes about herself—begins to shift.
Beautifully written and deeply emotional, this is a heartfelt, thought-provoking read about ambition, belonging, and finding light in dark times.
If you love quiet, emotional historical fiction… don’t miss this one.
December 22, 2025
There was so much I loved about this story. It was set in San Francisco during the war and while separated from the warzone, I loved getting to see what the USO did in the states during the time. The little things the volunteers did to help the soldiers feel welcomed, and just a little bit of a distraction was nice to see. Irene was very passionate about her job, and she had great talent. I loved being able to see her use it in different ways. It was emotional and gripping to see Irene navigate her life. The characters were well developed, and I could feel the emotion as the drama unfolded. As her confidence grew, it was hard to guess what she was going to do. The way the ballet was woven throughout, and the history behind it was a great addition. I enjoyed it all.
Thank you @moyerginny @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @moyerginny @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
January 9, 2026
This is one of those books you can’t wait to sink back into at the end of the day. With vivid prose and pitch-perfect dialogue, Moyer whisks readers into wartime San Francisco—think USO halls, smoky nightclubs, fog-kissed streets, and gilded mansions. It’s a richly detailed love letter to the city while capturing both its romance and heartbreak.
At the center is Irene Cleary, a warm, likable narrator whose coming-of-age unfolds during one of the most adrenaline-fueled moments in American history. Her voice moves effortlessly between poignancy and exuberance as she navigates love, temptation, loss, and a touch of mystery while finding her own strength and sense of belonging. Beautiful, immersive, and emotionally satisfying, this is a homefront war novel that lingers long after the final page—and one I honestly never wanted to end.
At the center is Irene Cleary, a warm, likable narrator whose coming-of-age unfolds during one of the most adrenaline-fueled moments in American history. Her voice moves effortlessly between poignancy and exuberance as she navigates love, temptation, loss, and a touch of mystery while finding her own strength and sense of belonging. Beautiful, immersive, and emotionally satisfying, this is a homefront war novel that lingers long after the final page—and one I honestly never wanted to end.
January 18, 2026
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy, and I enjoyed reading it. This was a different kind of historical fiction for me. Instead of fiction filling in the missing parts, this is fiction that includes a historical background of life in the mid 1940s and the effect of WWII in San Francisco and the people who lived there.
Just 20 years old Irene Cleary, a seamstress, finds her simple life changed forever by making a dress for a woman and becoming a part of elite Nob Hill. She becomes involved in the 1st American production of "The Nutcracker", learns about love and figures out where her home is in the world. I found myself caught up in this story which was an enjoyable read.
The World at Home
Just 20 years old Irene Cleary, a seamstress, finds her simple life changed forever by making a dress for a woman and becoming a part of elite Nob Hill. She becomes involved in the 1st American production of "The Nutcracker", learns about love and figures out where her home is in the world. I found myself caught up in this story which was an enjoyable read.
The World at Home
August 16, 2025
I really liked this book. I have read a lot of WWII fiction but this story was different. Irene being an orphan, certainly influenced how she looked at the world. I'm sure being a woman in business for herself during that time wasn't common. I felt like I got a better feeling of what it was like during the war years. None of them knew if the men would survive, so there was the feeling of making the most of each other while they were together. I thought the USO was portrayed realistically, at least as far as I know. Mistakes were made, but I felt like Irene became the woman she wanted to, by the time the story was over. I will be looking for other books by this author.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read the ARC. I definitely recommend!
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read the ARC. I definitely recommend!
December 9, 2025
This is historical fiction in the fact that it takes place in San Francisco in 1944 so we get all of the rich descriptions of the city during this time. But really the book tells about Irene: her past growing up in an orphanage, her present as a business owner, and what she hopes for the future.
This book drew me in by being written in first person so I really got to know Irene. The book describes a love at first sight time for Irene as well as a forbidden romance.
Two history parts I loved in this one was how the USO worked and the fact that The Nutcracker made its full length debut in San Francisco in 1944.
Irene is a seamstress with a true eye for design. I love a book that includes textiles as part of the story so I loved those descriptions of the dresses she made and repurposed.
This book drew me in by being written in first person so I really got to know Irene. The book describes a love at first sight time for Irene as well as a forbidden romance.
Two history parts I loved in this one was how the USO worked and the fact that The Nutcracker made its full length debut in San Francisco in 1944.
Irene is a seamstress with a true eye for design. I love a book that includes textiles as part of the story so I loved those descriptions of the dresses she made and repurposed.
January 12, 2026
After finishing A Golden Life by author Ginny Kubitz Moyer, I knew I would enjoy her newest release. Set in San Francisco during the midst of WWII, Moyer creates, yet again, a vivid and bittersweet story featuring a strong female protagonist finding her way through the realities of the times.
Life takes an abrupt turn one day, when 20-year-old Irene Cleary, an orphan in the unique position of owning a Seamstress Shop, receives a call from a socialite in need of an alteration. Quickly, Cleary’s life is turned upside down as she navigates affairs, revelations, and the realization that nothing will ever be the same.
The World at Home is part love story, but more importantly, this latest novel by Ginny Kubitz Moyer is a testament to female liberation and the celebration of empowerment.
Life takes an abrupt turn one day, when 20-year-old Irene Cleary, an orphan in the unique position of owning a Seamstress Shop, receives a call from a socialite in need of an alteration. Quickly, Cleary’s life is turned upside down as she navigates affairs, revelations, and the realization that nothing will ever be the same.
The World at Home is part love story, but more importantly, this latest novel by Ginny Kubitz Moyer is a testament to female liberation and the celebration of empowerment.
January 11, 2026
Thanks to Chick Lit Central, the author and the publisher for this (then) ARC.
Irene Cleary is 20 years old and a seamstress in SF in 1944, and she inherited the store from her previous owner who died. She maybe only 20 but she's smart and mature and can be called a designer at that and good at it too. She's an orphan and was brought up in an Catholic orphanage. She meets Cynthia Burke, who's from a wealthy family, who wants her to redo a dress. Her husband, Max is quite a looker. He asks her to help him design his new night club. You know where this is going right?
I don't want to say this is a typical romance but it sort of it with unhappy marriages, etc.
How does this turn out?
The exact way I thought it would.
Irene Cleary is 20 years old and a seamstress in SF in 1944, and she inherited the store from her previous owner who died. She maybe only 20 but she's smart and mature and can be called a designer at that and good at it too. She's an orphan and was brought up in an Catholic orphanage. She meets Cynthia Burke, who's from a wealthy family, who wants her to redo a dress. Her husband, Max is quite a looker. He asks her to help him design his new night club. You know where this is going right?
I don't want to say this is a typical romance but it sort of it with unhappy marriages, etc.
How does this turn out?
The exact way I thought it would.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews