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The East End Girls #1
The East End Girls
East London, 1942: With the men at war, can the women of the East End band together to defend their loved ones, their city and their country?
Chestnut-haired Corporal Effie Weston has grit beyond her twenty years. Determined to do her duty, she has joined up to the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force to defend London’s East End from the Blitz. She and her new friends Alice, Nell and George know their work is as vital as any man’s. They must rely on every bit of their training – as well as each other – to face the dark days of war.
Working together, their friendship helps them to carry on as the air raid sirens wail nightly over the city. In the middle of all the chaos, Effie is not looking to give her heart away. But when a chance encounter on a station platform throws her into the path of handsome Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald, she’s stunned by the warmth in his kind eyes and the spark it ignites in her. Their connection only deepens the more time they spend together.
When her parents object to her relationship with Nathan, Effie is heartbroken. Grasping every scrap of courage she can, she dries her eyes and resolves to fight for her happily ever after with the man she loves. But her world shatters when Nathan’s plane is shot down over France, and he’s declared missing in action.
Can Effie’s friends help her hold onto the hope that Nathan will return from the front? Or will her bright chance at happiness be lost in the turmoil of war?
First in a new page-turning and heartbreaking romantic wartime saga series about love and friendship. Perfect for fans of Katie Flynn, Rosie Goodwin and Lizzie Lane.
What readers are saying about Jean
‘Grab the hankies… Cracking… This book made me laugh and cry, an incredible heart-warming read… Loved it all.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘A corker of a read… I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time… Gripping… Kept me on the edge of my seat… One hell of a story.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Have tissues ready as you will need them. Worthy of more stars but 5 is all I can give. BRILLIANT.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow… Fabulous… Grab the tissues for this emotional rollercoaster.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I adored this… A heart-warming story that had me on tenterhooks!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Fantastic… I could not put this book down. From the first page I was hooked.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I absolutely loved this… I didn't want it to end. Loved it from page one.
Chestnut-haired Corporal Effie Weston has grit beyond her twenty years. Determined to do her duty, she has joined up to the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force to defend London’s East End from the Blitz. She and her new friends Alice, Nell and George know their work is as vital as any man’s. They must rely on every bit of their training – as well as each other – to face the dark days of war.
Working together, their friendship helps them to carry on as the air raid sirens wail nightly over the city. In the middle of all the chaos, Effie is not looking to give her heart away. But when a chance encounter on a station platform throws her into the path of handsome Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald, she’s stunned by the warmth in his kind eyes and the spark it ignites in her. Their connection only deepens the more time they spend together.
When her parents object to her relationship with Nathan, Effie is heartbroken. Grasping every scrap of courage she can, she dries her eyes and resolves to fight for her happily ever after with the man she loves. But her world shatters when Nathan’s plane is shot down over France, and he’s declared missing in action.
Can Effie’s friends help her hold onto the hope that Nathan will return from the front? Or will her bright chance at happiness be lost in the turmoil of war?
First in a new page-turning and heartbreaking romantic wartime saga series about love and friendship. Perfect for fans of Katie Flynn, Rosie Goodwin and Lizzie Lane.
What readers are saying about Jean
‘Grab the hankies… Cracking… This book made me laugh and cry, an incredible heart-warming read… Loved it all.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘A corker of a read… I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time… Gripping… Kept me on the edge of my seat… One hell of a story.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Have tissues ready as you will need them. Worthy of more stars but 5 is all I can give. BRILLIANT.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow… Fabulous… Grab the tissues for this emotional rollercoaster.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I adored this… A heart-warming story that had me on tenterhooks!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Fantastic… I could not put this book down. From the first page I was hooked.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I absolutely loved this… I didn't want it to end. Loved it from page one.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
403 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Jean Fullerton
30 books197 followersI was born into a large, East End family and grew up in the overcrowded streets clustered around the Tower of London. I still live in East London, just five miles from where I was born. I feel that it is that my background that gives my historical East London stories their distinctive authenticity.
I first fell in love with history at school when I read Anya Seton’s book Katherine. Since then I have read everything I can about English history but I am particularly fascinated by the 18th and 19th century and my books are set in this period. I just love my native city and the East End in particular which is why I write stories to bring that vibrant area of London alive.
I am also passionate about historical accuracy and I enjoy researching the details almost as much as weaving the story. If one of my characters walks down a street you can be assured that that street actually existed. Take a look at Jean’s East End and see the actual location where my characters played out their stories.
I first fell in love with history at school when I read Anya Seton’s book Katherine. Since then I have read everything I can about English history but I am particularly fascinated by the 18th and 19th century and my books are set in this period. I just love my native city and the East End in particular which is why I write stories to bring that vibrant area of London alive.
I am also passionate about historical accuracy and I enjoy researching the details almost as much as weaving the story. If one of my characters walks down a street you can be assured that that street actually existed. Take a look at Jean’s East End and see the actual location where my characters played out their stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 27, 2025
First of all I love this author's books. The Ration Book series was brilliant.
This book is about the girls who worked on the Balloon Sites in England in WWII. It was a tough, dirty and dangerous job and not everyone who started training survived it.
We have a group of friends from all walks of life and Effie is our main character. They train together and end up on the same site together and an enduring friendship begins. Not all the girls are nice however and there's one nasty piece of work among them. They're nearly all from different backgrounds. Romances blossom and heartache also makes itself known.
I felt I never really got to know any of the characters in depth. The story was a little thin and at times moved along very slowly. There were chapters where nothing much happened and there was a bit of repetition of some phrases which got annoying.
However, I did like the descriptions of the work at the Balloon sites and of the SOE.
I often think of these books as set up books for the stories to come so I will be reading the next one which I think will deal with a different girl.
Thanks to Bookoutre and NetGalley for an early copy to read.
This book is about the girls who worked on the Balloon Sites in England in WWII. It was a tough, dirty and dangerous job and not everyone who started training survived it.
We have a group of friends from all walks of life and Effie is our main character. They train together and end up on the same site together and an enduring friendship begins. Not all the girls are nice however and there's one nasty piece of work among them. They're nearly all from different backgrounds. Romances blossom and heartache also makes itself known.
I felt I never really got to know any of the characters in depth. The story was a little thin and at times moved along very slowly. There were chapters where nothing much happened and there was a bit of repetition of some phrases which got annoying.
However, I did like the descriptions of the work at the Balloon sites and of the SOE.
I often think of these books as set up books for the stories to come so I will be reading the next one which I think will deal with a different girl.
Thanks to Bookoutre and NetGalley for an early copy to read.
May 28, 2025
This would have worked better for me as a movie.
The East End Girls tells the story of Effie, a member of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAFs), who is trying to defend London during WWII. There, she’s not only bonding with the closest friends she's ever had; she’s also intrigued by a handsome pilot that it’s making her question whether she should marry her long-term fiancée after all.
But they are in the middle of the war, and their dreams can be turned to dust in a second.
The East End Girls had a good plot and I enjoyed following strong women who, like Effie, decided to become part of the WAAFs. That being said, I also had a lot of problems with this book, mainly because I didn’t like the writing style.
This author focuses a lot on describing places and actions, but very little on feelings. That’s why I think it would have worked better as a movie, you weren’t going to miss what the characters were thinking: they aren’t. The only thoughts we get to glimpse were about the romance: Effie comparing Nathan (Hero) to her fiancée or fangirling about Nathan’s body/eyes/smile; and Nathan thinking about Effie. I was missing the inner monologues. I think this is the first time I’ve ever said that in a review.
Another problem I had is that, with that title, I thought the book was going to be more focused on friendships than it was. The main focus is the war and the romance, and the friendships, even though important, are secondary to the romance. I found it a bit misleading because I picked this up after loving The Bookclub for Troublesome Women. I wanted another historical fiction focused on female friendships, not romance, and the title made me think this was going to be it. At the same time, I understand this is the first book in a series about this group of friends that are part of the WAAFs in the East End, so I don’t think it doesn’t fit the story, but maybe call the series The East End Girls and give this book a different title.
Also, now that I’ve finished the book and reread the blurb, I don’t recommend reading the blurb before reading the book. Even though it doesn’t spoil everything, there are things mentioned that happened in the second half of the book.
Overall, despite my constant struggle with the lack of feelings expressed in the prose, I somehow managed to care a bit for the main characters and the rest of the girls. I would have enjoyed this if I could connect with the writing style. I would have liked to continue getting to know all the girls, especially Alice and George. If this ever becomes a TV series, I’ll be the first to watch it. As it is, this didn’t work for me.
I’d recommend it if you are interested in how it was like to be a WAAF during WWII (I learned a lot), female friendships, war love stories and don’t like having inner monologues in your books because you prefer a writing style more focused on plot, actions and descriptions than feelings. The action was well-paced and it was entertaining.
I kindly received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The East End Girls tells the story of Effie, a member of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAFs), who is trying to defend London during WWII. There, she’s not only bonding with the closest friends she's ever had; she’s also intrigued by a handsome pilot that it’s making her question whether she should marry her long-term fiancée after all.
But they are in the middle of the war, and their dreams can be turned to dust in a second.
The East End Girls had a good plot and I enjoyed following strong women who, like Effie, decided to become part of the WAAFs. That being said, I also had a lot of problems with this book, mainly because I didn’t like the writing style.
This author focuses a lot on describing places and actions, but very little on feelings. That’s why I think it would have worked better as a movie, you weren’t going to miss what the characters were thinking: they aren’t. The only thoughts we get to glimpse were about the romance: Effie comparing Nathan (Hero) to her fiancée or fangirling about Nathan’s body/eyes/smile; and Nathan thinking about Effie. I was missing the inner monologues. I think this is the first time I’ve ever said that in a review.
Another problem I had is that, with that title, I thought the book was going to be more focused on friendships than it was. The main focus is the war and the romance, and the friendships, even though important, are secondary to the romance. I found it a bit misleading because I picked this up after loving The Bookclub for Troublesome Women. I wanted another historical fiction focused on female friendships, not romance, and the title made me think this was going to be it. At the same time, I understand this is the first book in a series about this group of friends that are part of the WAAFs in the East End, so I don’t think it doesn’t fit the story, but maybe call the series The East End Girls and give this book a different title.
Also, now that I’ve finished the book and reread the blurb, I don’t recommend reading the blurb before reading the book. Even though it doesn’t spoil everything, there are things mentioned that happened in the second half of the book.
Overall, despite my constant struggle with the lack of feelings expressed in the prose, I somehow managed to care a bit for the main characters and the rest of the girls. I would have enjoyed this if I could connect with the writing style. I would have liked to continue getting to know all the girls, especially Alice and George. If this ever becomes a TV series, I’ll be the first to watch it. As it is, this didn’t work for me.
I’d recommend it if you are interested in how it was like to be a WAAF during WWII (I learned a lot), female friendships, war love stories and don’t like having inner monologues in your books because you prefer a writing style more focused on plot, actions and descriptions than feelings. The action was well-paced and it was entertaining.
I kindly received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 20, 2025
2.5 🌟
I really struggled to get along with this book. I kept coming back to it to try again. I usually love a bit of an east end of London wartime story, but I didn’t gel with the narration for the majority of the story and it really did have an impact. Maybe that’s on me for expecting a cockney accent and getting an RP instead, I was also really surprised when I came to review and realised the narrator was Eilidh Beaton, I usually really enjoy her voice, and when she delivered varying accents for the characters I really did enjoy.
As for the actual story, it was your typical WWII all girls together story, with a bit of romance thrown in that was lovely. It just didn’t have the overall impact on me as I expected.
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ALC in return for an honest review 🎧
I really struggled to get along with this book. I kept coming back to it to try again. I usually love a bit of an east end of London wartime story, but I didn’t gel with the narration for the majority of the story and it really did have an impact. Maybe that’s on me for expecting a cockney accent and getting an RP instead, I was also really surprised when I came to review and realised the narrator was Eilidh Beaton, I usually really enjoy her voice, and when she delivered varying accents for the characters I really did enjoy.
As for the actual story, it was your typical WWII all girls together story, with a bit of romance thrown in that was lovely. It just didn’t have the overall impact on me as I expected.
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ALC in return for an honest review 🎧
June 13, 2025
The East End Girls is a WWII romance novel between two characters both fighting in the war. I could not put this book down and read it in just a couple of days (for me that is fast!).
I love how the author combines not only a romance, but also a really good historical fiction, with a lot of detail about the character's military positions within the war. I love a WWII romance novel, but I really enjoy reading about the different types of work people whom signed up to serve in the war did. I had never read anything directly related to the barrage balloon operators before this book, and I really enjoyed the detail and descriptions that the author put into the women's training, and their active employment of the barrage balloons. It felt like someone explaining the inner workings of the entire process who had actually been in one of these WAAF units and had manned the barrage balloons themselves. I really appreciate that the author puts that kind of detail into explaining things (since those of us reading probably have no clue about the inner workings of WWII barrage balloon units), because it really takes you from just reading this story, to feeling like you are right there with Effie, George, Alice, and all the ladies as they work together to get Bessie in the air.
This story keeps you on the edge of your seat! What is a WWII romance without a little bit of angst about the main characters surviving their missions! Nathan, the MMC, flying those secret missions, made me nervous every time, I was just waiting for something bad to happen. Effie, the FMC, I love her character. I could tell right from the first chapter, that her and Leonard were not exactly meant for each other. Especially when he had to complain about the fact she had signed up for the military, how selfish of him to think that way. I am so happy that Effie decided to follow her heart, regardless of what "people might think" because honestly who cares what other people think. But in the 1940's, it wasn't always so easy to just go against your parents wishes, so I applaud Effie for refusing to let expectation, or bigotry, stand in the way of her love for Nathan. I find all the women in the WAAF to be extremely brave, as most of them volunteered to work in the barrage balloon units, yet even then, the male officers still didn't think they would have what it takes to actually appropriately operate the balloons. But the women had no problems, and not only had to deal with all the other atrocities that working in a war zone brings, but also the constant cat calls and degradation by their male counterparts. It would be hard to be a female soldier in WWII, but that didn't stop thousands of women from volunteering anyway.
I also loved all of the other female characters, Effie's friends and fellow barrage balloon unit comrades, in this story. They all have amusing personalities, and knowing this book will be a series, I am excited to see who the next one will be about!
This book is an amazing love story, and historical fiction, that you will not be able to put down, so free up some time when you start reading!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author for a copy of this book!
I love how the author combines not only a romance, but also a really good historical fiction, with a lot of detail about the character's military positions within the war. I love a WWII romance novel, but I really enjoy reading about the different types of work people whom signed up to serve in the war did. I had never read anything directly related to the barrage balloon operators before this book, and I really enjoyed the detail and descriptions that the author put into the women's training, and their active employment of the barrage balloons. It felt like someone explaining the inner workings of the entire process who had actually been in one of these WAAF units and had manned the barrage balloons themselves. I really appreciate that the author puts that kind of detail into explaining things (since those of us reading probably have no clue about the inner workings of WWII barrage balloon units), because it really takes you from just reading this story, to feeling like you are right there with Effie, George, Alice, and all the ladies as they work together to get Bessie in the air.
This story keeps you on the edge of your seat! What is a WWII romance without a little bit of angst about the main characters surviving their missions! Nathan, the MMC, flying those secret missions, made me nervous every time, I was just waiting for something bad to happen. Effie, the FMC, I love her character. I could tell right from the first chapter, that her and Leonard were not exactly meant for each other. Especially when he had to complain about the fact she had signed up for the military, how selfish of him to think that way. I am so happy that Effie decided to follow her heart, regardless of what "people might think" because honestly who cares what other people think. But in the 1940's, it wasn't always so easy to just go against your parents wishes, so I applaud Effie for refusing to let expectation, or bigotry, stand in the way of her love for Nathan. I find all the women in the WAAF to be extremely brave, as most of them volunteered to work in the barrage balloon units, yet even then, the male officers still didn't think they would have what it takes to actually appropriately operate the balloons. But the women had no problems, and not only had to deal with all the other atrocities that working in a war zone brings, but also the constant cat calls and degradation by their male counterparts. It would be hard to be a female soldier in WWII, but that didn't stop thousands of women from volunteering anyway.
I also loved all of the other female characters, Effie's friends and fellow barrage balloon unit comrades, in this story. They all have amusing personalities, and knowing this book will be a series, I am excited to see who the next one will be about!
This book is an amazing love story, and historical fiction, that you will not be able to put down, so free up some time when you start reading!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author for a copy of this book!
June 24, 2025
it was sweet. thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
August 13, 2025
This might be one of the sweestest WWII novels I have ever read.
I really enjoyed the dual POV. The characters were all so well defined and relatable and I loved how the all interacted together.
It was a really well written, well paced read.
I loved the narration. It was really well done!
4 stars!
Thank you to @bookouture and @netgalley for my gifted alc
I really enjoyed the dual POV. The characters were all so well defined and relatable and I loved how the all interacted together.
It was a really well written, well paced read.
I loved the narration. It was really well done!
4 stars!
Thank you to @bookouture and @netgalley for my gifted alc
July 2, 2025
The promise of lifelong friendship, the spark of unexpected love, and the grit of women holding the line while bombs fall over London—East End Girls delivers it all. Set against the backdrop of 1940s wartime Britain, this story captures the strength of female bonds, the tension of forbidden romance, and the resilience needed when love and loyalty are tested. With the Big Smoke cloaked in danger and doubt, what’s not to love?
Read my review over on hundredacreofbooks.com
https://hundredacreofbooks.com/index....
Read my review over on hundredacreofbooks.com
https://hundredacreofbooks.com/index....
July 1, 2025
Effie Weston, a member of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, loves serving her country during its time of need. Her mission is to defend London’s East End from the Blitz. As the war rages across Europe, Effie’s friends have become like family to her, and they rely on each other to survive this horrible time.
Every night, the sirens wail, warning those who have taken an oath to protect. Effie and her fellow service members are vital to the mission. When she meets Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald, Effie can’t help but fall for him. However, when Nathan’s plane is shot down, her world crumbles under her feet.
“The East End Girls,” authored by Jean Fullerton, is an amazing, emotional, and inspiring story. Effie is a completely relatable and wonderful character. I loved her compassion, drive, and ambition to defend her country. The romance between Nathan and Effie adds a touch of magic to the story, making it even more heartwarming. I was instantly captivated by this story and couldn’t put it down until the very last page. I highly recommend this exceptionally well-written story. It is absolutely brilliant!
Every night, the sirens wail, warning those who have taken an oath to protect. Effie and her fellow service members are vital to the mission. When she meets Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald, Effie can’t help but fall for him. However, when Nathan’s plane is shot down, her world crumbles under her feet.
“The East End Girls,” authored by Jean Fullerton, is an amazing, emotional, and inspiring story. Effie is a completely relatable and wonderful character. I loved her compassion, drive, and ambition to defend her country. The romance between Nathan and Effie adds a touch of magic to the story, making it even more heartwarming. I was instantly captivated by this story and couldn’t put it down until the very last page. I highly recommend this exceptionally well-written story. It is absolutely brilliant!
June 22, 2025
I thought it was a very well written book. Especially the historical aspect. It really included the smaller details like the daily life in the army. An extra bonus I learned about the barrage balloons. Which before this book I had never heard of before. Furthermore I don’t often like dual pov’s, because I find they mess with the suspension of the novel. But this book with dual pov only added a lot more to the suspension. I was sitting at the edge of my seat waiting for the hopefully happy ending. Except then the ending came and I wanted more. I enjoyed the characters. They all had very different and strong personalities adding to the story line in their own ways. Them supporting each other through all the struggles was very endearing to see. And they were a joy to read about. The one note I have is that it felt like the time line of the book was a little off. But it wasn’t very bothersome if you didn’t look for it too much.
In conclusion, I really liked this book it was such a heart warming, but also a very suspenseful book. I can’t wait to see what more there is to come.
Thankyou to netgalley and Bookouture for letting me read this Arc.
April 28, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
This book had potential to be so much more, but I felt like I read a cobbled together mess. I enjoy a good historical fiction, especially WW2, and the fact that this was following the women and their efforts, I was intrigued. It just didn't hit the way it should though.
This book follows Effie, who was in the WAAF division. Her fiance and parents aren't thrilled that she pushed off her wedding to help the war effort, but are somewhat understanding that she feels called to do it.
The day she is headed to her new location, she meets Nathan Fitzgerald, who is a pilot with the RAF. They both felt sparks of attraction, but neither acts on them. Once they both get to their locations, they run into each other a few different times, and apparently they both knew they were in love with each other since their first brief meeting. Effie calls off her engagement, and immediately gets engaged to Nathan.
Her parents aren't happy, and want nothing to do with her, as Nathan is from Barbados, and not a white man like they wanted her to be with. They turn her away again when Nathan goes missing in action, and Effie comes home pregnant, looking for support.
Nathan finally makes it back, and him and Effie are married. In a span of a few months, they went from strangers to married with a baby on the way. The timeline was so unbelievable, that I struggled with their relationship. I love a good love at first sight book, but this wasn't it.
Not only was the timeline and story all over the place, so many words were overused. The word "blooming" was used so much, that I actually complained to my husband about the frequency of it.
Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone. It was boring and unbelievable. I appreciate the research into what these people did for the war, but other than that, this book was not well done.
This book had potential to be so much more, but I felt like I read a cobbled together mess. I enjoy a good historical fiction, especially WW2, and the fact that this was following the women and their efforts, I was intrigued. It just didn't hit the way it should though.
This book follows Effie, who was in the WAAF division. Her fiance and parents aren't thrilled that she pushed off her wedding to help the war effort, but are somewhat understanding that she feels called to do it.
The day she is headed to her new location, she meets Nathan Fitzgerald, who is a pilot with the RAF. They both felt sparks of attraction, but neither acts on them. Once they both get to their locations, they run into each other a few different times, and apparently they both knew they were in love with each other since their first brief meeting. Effie calls off her engagement, and immediately gets engaged to Nathan.
Her parents aren't happy, and want nothing to do with her, as Nathan is from Barbados, and not a white man like they wanted her to be with. They turn her away again when Nathan goes missing in action, and Effie comes home pregnant, looking for support.
Nathan finally makes it back, and him and Effie are married. In a span of a few months, they went from strangers to married with a baby on the way. The timeline was so unbelievable, that I struggled with their relationship. I love a good love at first sight book, but this wasn't it.
Not only was the timeline and story all over the place, so many words were overused. The word "blooming" was used so much, that I actually complained to my husband about the frequency of it.
Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone. It was boring and unbelievable. I appreciate the research into what these people did for the war, but other than that, this book was not well done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
Wonderful. Poignant. So heart warming and delightful. Love this author's books and this one was just wow! So read it- I promise you'll love it.
May 3, 2025
East London 1942 WW2 historical drama.
WAAF corporal Effie Weston is leaving her parents and fiancé Leonard Forester in London to head off for her fourteen week training at Bletchley.
Joining up with 906 balloon squadrons Alice Nell and George.
Attending a dance at the corn exchange in Bedford she bumped into flight officer Nathan Fitzgerald after he helped her at the train station St Pancras captured by his incredibly blue eyes she took a turn around the dance floor in a whirl her Knight in shining armour from Barbados in the west indies she falls head over heels and the break up with Leonard and preparations for her up coming wedding to Nathan can't come quick enough.
A perfect start to a new series from this inspiring author.
The east end girls Effies story is unique in every way.
So unputdownable heartbreaking and touching right to the end.
Loved it in every way.
WAAF corporal Effie Weston is leaving her parents and fiancé Leonard Forester in London to head off for her fourteen week training at Bletchley.
Joining up with 906 balloon squadrons Alice Nell and George.
Attending a dance at the corn exchange in Bedford she bumped into flight officer Nathan Fitzgerald after he helped her at the train station St Pancras captured by his incredibly blue eyes she took a turn around the dance floor in a whirl her Knight in shining armour from Barbados in the west indies she falls head over heels and the break up with Leonard and preparations for her up coming wedding to Nathan can't come quick enough.
A perfect start to a new series from this inspiring author.
The east end girls Effies story is unique in every way.
So unputdownable heartbreaking and touching right to the end.
Loved it in every way.
July 6, 2025
Well researched, based on an area of war I knew nothing about - females controlling the barrage balloons used in defence against the German bombers. A romance between a WAAF and a black Barbadian flying officer that brings racism to the fore and creates huge family rifts. And plenty of female friendship and comradeship. I would have enjoyed it more if not for the very many annoying typos and basic errors that a good proofreader really should have spotted and corrected. Still, Jean Fullerton remains one of my favourite WW2 saga authors.
July 3, 2025
I love reading stories like this. They make you definitely thankful don't live in that time frame. I loved all the girls and the sisterhood that they created. The romance between Nathan and Effie is just so sweet and loving. I also love the found family feel that the book has. Great story with an amazing ending.
July 20, 2025
I enjoyed this book very much, I really enjoyed the ration books series of books by this author and was disappointed by her first book after that series ended
This looks like it will be another wonderful series of books
This looks like it will be another wonderful series of books
August 17, 2025
Wonderful. Poignant. So heart warming and delightful. Love this author's books and this one was just wow! So read it- I promise you'll love it.
November 11, 2025
Well, I definitely meant to write the review for this one as soon as I had finished it, but then life happened.
What I can say even now, weeks later, is that this is both a historical fiction novel and a love story, provably leaning slightly heavier into the romance of it all. Having read hundreds of WW2 fiction in my time, I have to say I still appreciated the historical detail and especially the female friendships forged in the fire of battle.
Another interesting perspective was how women found in the family way were treated by their own family and others now that long ago.
I would recommend this book if you like Kate Quinn but you always wished for a less thrilling, cozier book where there are low stakes and you know that there will be a happy ending. Then this is just the ticket.
Thank you Netgalley for this ALC.
What I can say even now, weeks later, is that this is both a historical fiction novel and a love story, provably leaning slightly heavier into the romance of it all. Having read hundreds of WW2 fiction in my time, I have to say I still appreciated the historical detail and especially the female friendships forged in the fire of battle.
Another interesting perspective was how women found in the family way were treated by their own family and others now that long ago.
I would recommend this book if you like Kate Quinn but you always wished for a less thrilling, cozier book where there are low stakes and you know that there will be a happy ending. Then this is just the ticket.
Thank you Netgalley for this ALC.
June 23, 2025
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for an advanced copy of this audiobook, capably narrated by Eilidh Beaton.
Jean Fullerton has a lengthy list of popular wartime novels behind her, and this marks the start of a new series set in East End London. As always, her personal background as an East Ender and her commitment to thorough research fill the story with the sights, sounds and characters of a city at war.
It’s 1942, and young Effie Weston, from a comfortable small town middle class family, has signed up for service with the Women’s Air Auxiliary Force (WAAF). Her parents aren’t terribly pleased to see their only daughter leave home and perhaps endanger her life, but they grudgingly accept that she is determined to ‘do her bit’ before her planned marriage. Her fiance Leonard, relieved of duty because he works in an essential service, is a stuffy conventional type and it’s clear from the start that she is also marrying him out of a sense of duty.
But Effie’s quiet middle class life is about to change rapidly, as so many other things do in wartime. Once in London, she enters rigorous training with one of the first female barrage balloon teams. The work is physically demanding and often requires the women to put up and hold the balloons during air raids. The idea was to free men for more important active warfare, and the teams never got the respect they deserved.
Interestingly, the otherwise sheltered young woman has no trouble adjusting to the labor, the intense pressure, the working and living in close quarters with other team members, under constant surveillance by officers and seemingly constant ogling (and worse) by enlisted men. Her friendships with some of the women in her unit, especially Alice, Maeve, and the upper-class ‘George,’ are quick and warm, and she holds her own with the usual bullies.
Reading about their work, growing pride in their service, and tight bonds is very interesting but the real story is Effie’s chance encounter with the dashing Barbadian Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald. Let’s just say that, despite all attempts by stodgy Leonard and her parents to persuade her of her grave error, and despite some very real challenges, Effie stands strong.
The anti-Nathan side, including the supercilious SOE agent Frobisher, are drawn a bit too broadly and often come across as stereotypical. Effie is remarkably naive, as might be expected given her upbringing. But that very upbringing should at least have given her some inkling of the responses her actions might provoke. Nathan is much more aware of consequences but seems intent only on winning Effie. That said, their romance is truly ‘one for the books’ and I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
Jean Fullerton has a lengthy list of popular wartime novels behind her, and this marks the start of a new series set in East End London. As always, her personal background as an East Ender and her commitment to thorough research fill the story with the sights, sounds and characters of a city at war.
It’s 1942, and young Effie Weston, from a comfortable small town middle class family, has signed up for service with the Women’s Air Auxiliary Force (WAAF). Her parents aren’t terribly pleased to see their only daughter leave home and perhaps endanger her life, but they grudgingly accept that she is determined to ‘do her bit’ before her planned marriage. Her fiance Leonard, relieved of duty because he works in an essential service, is a stuffy conventional type and it’s clear from the start that she is also marrying him out of a sense of duty.
But Effie’s quiet middle class life is about to change rapidly, as so many other things do in wartime. Once in London, she enters rigorous training with one of the first female barrage balloon teams. The work is physically demanding and often requires the women to put up and hold the balloons during air raids. The idea was to free men for more important active warfare, and the teams never got the respect they deserved.
Interestingly, the otherwise sheltered young woman has no trouble adjusting to the labor, the intense pressure, the working and living in close quarters with other team members, under constant surveillance by officers and seemingly constant ogling (and worse) by enlisted men. Her friendships with some of the women in her unit, especially Alice, Maeve, and the upper-class ‘George,’ are quick and warm, and she holds her own with the usual bullies.
Reading about their work, growing pride in their service, and tight bonds is very interesting but the real story is Effie’s chance encounter with the dashing Barbadian Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald. Let’s just say that, despite all attempts by stodgy Leonard and her parents to persuade her of her grave error, and despite some very real challenges, Effie stands strong.
The anti-Nathan side, including the supercilious SOE agent Frobisher, are drawn a bit too broadly and often come across as stereotypical. Effie is remarkably naive, as might be expected given her upbringing. But that very upbringing should at least have given her some inkling of the responses her actions might provoke. Nathan is much more aware of consequences but seems intent only on winning Effie. That said, their romance is truly ‘one for the books’ and I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
July 1, 2025
From this very popular author, this is Jean Fullerton latest novel, which is set in Bermondsey and Southwark, London, during World War two. Plus, the countryside in Bedfordshire where Effie does her training.
In the beginning of the book we meet Effie who's a WAAF and her job is attending to the air balloons, often hanging tightly onto the guy ropes, and after two and a half years of war the docks in the area were often subject to bombing during the night. Also we meet Nathan who is in the Air Force and on his way to his next posting, he meets Effie on the platform as she very nearly has her suitcase stolen by some thieves, he manages to get her case back, and he reluctantly thinks that will be the last he will see of her. Effie at the time has a fiancé Leonard who immediately thinks Nathan is a smooth talking "brylcreem boy." Nathan realises that Effie has made a big impression on him and hopes to meet her again. Stepping back in time, we learn the backgrounds of both the men and women of the RAF who are stationed near Bedford. Nathan and some of his flying pals come from different countries, and the girls have a good time off duty yet work hard on duty, and they too are from all walks of life.
As time goes on, Nathan and Effie fall in love and want to marry, but there is opposition from her parents who object to Nathan's background and colour. Plus with the war raging on and Nathan being a first class pilot, his work to deliver SOE people into France never stops, will they eventually marry, no spoilers here but if you love WW2 sagas like me you will absolutely love this book. Would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Like all of Jean Fullertons books, I liked the background stories and friendships that occurred during the war years. A smashing five-star read from me.
#bookouture
#JeanFullerton
#TheEastEndGirls
#netgalley
In the beginning of the book we meet Effie who's a WAAF and her job is attending to the air balloons, often hanging tightly onto the guy ropes, and after two and a half years of war the docks in the area were often subject to bombing during the night. Also we meet Nathan who is in the Air Force and on his way to his next posting, he meets Effie on the platform as she very nearly has her suitcase stolen by some thieves, he manages to get her case back, and he reluctantly thinks that will be the last he will see of her. Effie at the time has a fiancé Leonard who immediately thinks Nathan is a smooth talking "brylcreem boy." Nathan realises that Effie has made a big impression on him and hopes to meet her again. Stepping back in time, we learn the backgrounds of both the men and women of the RAF who are stationed near Bedford. Nathan and some of his flying pals come from different countries, and the girls have a good time off duty yet work hard on duty, and they too are from all walks of life.
As time goes on, Nathan and Effie fall in love and want to marry, but there is opposition from her parents who object to Nathan's background and colour. Plus with the war raging on and Nathan being a first class pilot, his work to deliver SOE people into France never stops, will they eventually marry, no spoilers here but if you love WW2 sagas like me you will absolutely love this book. Would give it more than 5 stars if I could.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Like all of Jean Fullertons books, I liked the background stories and friendships that occurred during the war years. A smashing five-star read from me.
#bookouture
#JeanFullerton
#TheEastEndGirls
#netgalley
June 8, 2025
I have seen many pictures of barrage balloons floating over London. I have heard of the importance of the balloons as away to deter the German planes flying overhead. I never stopped to think how they were in the sky. I never stopped to think who was responsible for the actually putting them in the air, transporting them, or taking them down. I definitely didn't know what it entailed.
Thanks to Jean Fullerton, I am not as clueless as I was before reading The East End Girls. I am amazed that on many occasions it was women holding the lines, standing in extreme weather conditions, with bombs falling all around them. The East End Girls taught me so much as I escaped into a dramatic tale and a forbidden romance.
Effie is part of the first women barrage teams. She and other volunteers go through a grueling training program in order to do their part. Reading of conflicts, jealousies, and friendships had me wondering how they got through it all. Would they be able to work as a team? Catiness, secrets and numerous struggles weave a very dramatic tale. Total respect to the WAAFs for their dedication and bravery.
It was never all work. There was some play. Dances helped them escape the depth of despair. Daliances helped. Effie isn't sure about the dances. Was it appropriate for an engaged woman to attend? A chance encounter on a train platform becomes a chance encounter on the dance floor. Effie finds herself hoping for more and more chance encounters with Flying Officer Nathan Fitzgerald.
My hope for a romance, even if it is a forbidden, had me reading page after page hoping to see what happened next. I didn't realize the challenges they would have. I didn't know if they would find their happily ever after. I honestly didn't know if he would survive his missions to Occupied France.
Thanks to Jean Fullerton, I am not as clueless as I was before reading The East End Girls. I am amazed that on many occasions it was women holding the lines, standing in extreme weather conditions, with bombs falling all around them. The East End Girls taught me so much as I escaped into a dramatic tale and a forbidden romance.
Effie is part of the first women barrage teams. She and other volunteers go through a grueling training program in order to do their part. Reading of conflicts, jealousies, and friendships had me wondering how they got through it all. Would they be able to work as a team? Catiness, secrets and numerous struggles weave a very dramatic tale. Total respect to the WAAFs for their dedication and bravery.
It was never all work. There was some play. Dances helped them escape the depth of despair. Daliances helped. Effie isn't sure about the dances. Was it appropriate for an engaged woman to attend? A chance encounter on a train platform becomes a chance encounter on the dance floor. Effie finds herself hoping for more and more chance encounters with Flying Officer Nathan Fitzgerald.
My hope for a romance, even if it is a forbidden, had me reading page after page hoping to see what happened next. I didn't realize the challenges they would have. I didn't know if they would find their happily ever after. I honestly didn't know if he would survive his missions to Occupied France.
June 24, 2025
Title: The East End Girls
Series: East End Girls Book #1
Author: Jean Fullerton
Format: 🎧
Narrator: EiLidh Beaton
Publisher: Bookouture Audio
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pub Date: June 27, 2025
My Rating: 4.3 Stars
Pages 324
East London, 1942: With the men at war, can the women of the East End band together to defend their loved ones, their city and their country.
Twenty year old Corporal Effie Weston has joined up to the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force to defend London’s East End from the Blitz. She and her new friends Alice, Nell and George know their work is as vital as any man’s. They must rely on every bit of their training–as well as each other–to face the dark days of war.
Effie’s family would rather she settle down and marry her long tie boyfriend. However, Effie is not ready for marriage.
When she meets handsome Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald who came to her rescue when she was being scammed by thieves while waiting for her train, she is quite taken.
I was drawn to this story as the blurb reminded me of Fannie Flagg’s The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion. Where four sisters from Pulaski Wisconsin joined the WASPs (Women’s Airforce Service Pilots) of World War II.
Yes there are some similarities, the main one being they are both stories that stir up emotions.
This is first in the series and I am looking forward to Book #2.
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for granting me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 27, 2025.
Series: East End Girls Book #1
Author: Jean Fullerton
Format: 🎧
Narrator: EiLidh Beaton
Publisher: Bookouture Audio
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pub Date: June 27, 2025
My Rating: 4.3 Stars
Pages 324
East London, 1942: With the men at war, can the women of the East End band together to defend their loved ones, their city and their country.
Twenty year old Corporal Effie Weston has joined up to the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force to defend London’s East End from the Blitz. She and her new friends Alice, Nell and George know their work is as vital as any man’s. They must rely on every bit of their training–as well as each other–to face the dark days of war.
Effie’s family would rather she settle down and marry her long tie boyfriend. However, Effie is not ready for marriage.
When she meets handsome Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald who came to her rescue when she was being scammed by thieves while waiting for her train, she is quite taken.
I was drawn to this story as the blurb reminded me of Fannie Flagg’s The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion. Where four sisters from Pulaski Wisconsin joined the WASPs (Women’s Airforce Service Pilots) of World War II.
Yes there are some similarities, the main one being they are both stories that stir up emotions.
This is first in the series and I am looking forward to Book #2.
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for granting me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 27, 2025.
June 23, 2025
3.5⭐️ rounded up
I quite enjoyed this audiobook as historically this is a time when many people suffered great loss however although this has some events that highlight the dangers of war it has humour that I’d imagine people would have to have had during this period in some sort. It was actually lighthearted with some poignant facts that would have been likely in the context!
East End Girls brings a group of women and men who are fighting for their country and lives however it focuses on the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force referred to throughout the book as the WAFS. So while the men are at war on the frontlines they are doing their duties at base. The enjoyable part for me is there are details I don’t know historical that I often find within reading and this was similar albeit fictional it still gives enough information to educate.
The friendships built between these women was fun humorous and just beautiful in the most testing and tragic times. The main female character Effie who goes through various events including loosing relationship with her parents has great support from these women. Of course added into the mix is of course the romance Effie was engaged when she began her enrolment with WAFS but by the time she leaves is she still engaged? Is she married, single? Or is it even the same man?!
Well written and fantastically narrated this was an easy listen for me and I’d definitely listen to the next in the series!
With thanks and gratitude to NetGalley & Bookouture Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ELC in return for an open honest review. With Best Wishes for publication on 27th June 2025 🙏🏽🎧❤️📚
I quite enjoyed this audiobook as historically this is a time when many people suffered great loss however although this has some events that highlight the dangers of war it has humour that I’d imagine people would have to have had during this period in some sort. It was actually lighthearted with some poignant facts that would have been likely in the context!
East End Girls brings a group of women and men who are fighting for their country and lives however it focuses on the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force referred to throughout the book as the WAFS. So while the men are at war on the frontlines they are doing their duties at base. The enjoyable part for me is there are details I don’t know historical that I often find within reading and this was similar albeit fictional it still gives enough information to educate.
The friendships built between these women was fun humorous and just beautiful in the most testing and tragic times. The main female character Effie who goes through various events including loosing relationship with her parents has great support from these women. Of course added into the mix is of course the romance Effie was engaged when she began her enrolment with WAFS but by the time she leaves is she still engaged? Is she married, single? Or is it even the same man?!
Well written and fantastically narrated this was an easy listen for me and I’d definitely listen to the next in the series!
With thanks and gratitude to NetGalley & Bookouture Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ELC in return for an open honest review. With Best Wishes for publication on 27th June 2025 🙏🏽🎧❤️📚
May 11, 2025
Title: The East End Girls
Author: Jean Fullerton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A chance encounter at a train station becomes love at first sight for Nathan, a pilot from Barbados who is assigned to a base in England, when he saves Effie from a thief attempting to steal her suitcase. Not so impressed, Effie’s fiancé, Leonard. The East End Girls takes the reader through the training that Effie experiences to hold a barrage balloon during air raids, as well as Nathan’s assignments to fly into occupied France to drop off and pick up secret operatives during the war. The war is a backdrop for the developing romance between Effie and Nathan.
Positives: This is my first read of a mixed race couple during WWII. It was a breath of fresh air. I had to look up information on the barrage balloons to get a visual and understand the difficulties that Effie and her crew faced in wrangling control of the monstrosity. This book is also the first one in a series according to the book cover. Effie’s balloon crew is a mixed bag of characters that I look forward to reading more about in the series hopefully.
Struggles: There is the obvious racism of those not accepting of a bloc pilot, much less a mixed race couple. The book was a bit of a slow start for me, but about 1/3 of the way in, it was hard to put down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book will be republished on June 27, 2025.
#netgalley #arc #bookstagram #TheEastEndGirls #Bookouture #JeanFullerton
Author: Jean Fullerton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A chance encounter at a train station becomes love at first sight for Nathan, a pilot from Barbados who is assigned to a base in England, when he saves Effie from a thief attempting to steal her suitcase. Not so impressed, Effie’s fiancé, Leonard. The East End Girls takes the reader through the training that Effie experiences to hold a barrage balloon during air raids, as well as Nathan’s assignments to fly into occupied France to drop off and pick up secret operatives during the war. The war is a backdrop for the developing romance between Effie and Nathan.
Positives: This is my first read of a mixed race couple during WWII. It was a breath of fresh air. I had to look up information on the barrage balloons to get a visual and understand the difficulties that Effie and her crew faced in wrangling control of the monstrosity. This book is also the first one in a series according to the book cover. Effie’s balloon crew is a mixed bag of characters that I look forward to reading more about in the series hopefully.
Struggles: There is the obvious racism of those not accepting of a bloc pilot, much less a mixed race couple. The book was a bit of a slow start for me, but about 1/3 of the way in, it was hard to put down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book will be republished on June 27, 2025.
#netgalley #arc #bookstagram #TheEastEndGirls #Bookouture #JeanFullerton
June 9, 2025
I am a big fan of WWII historical fiction. What I loved about The East End Girls is that it tells the story about a part of WWII that I was not familiar with all the while focusing on relationships and incorporating other social issues.
Effie Weston is a Corporal in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. Tasked with defending London’s East End from German raids, Effie and the other women in her unit manage one of the barrage ballon sites. Together they went through an intense training program building bonds of friendship, though not all the women in the group saw eye to eye leading to some issues among the team.
After a chance meeting at the train station, Effie once again crosses paths with Nathan, a Flying Officer from Barbados serving on a base in England. Sparks fly and the two find themselves falling for each other. But can their love survive the trials of war?
This is not just a love story or a story about women serving in the military. Through the cast of characters, it explores tough subject matter including racism, biracial relationships, pregnancy out of wedlock and alcoholism as well as others.
This book was a heart-warming story of love, friendship, perseverance, and strength. I found myself rooting for Effie and Nathan but also loved the bond shared between Effie and Alice and the way the group of girls comes together for each other.
Thank you to Bookouture for the ARC of this book. This was a refreshing read that was so enjoyable that I read in one sitting.
Effie Weston is a Corporal in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. Tasked with defending London’s East End from German raids, Effie and the other women in her unit manage one of the barrage ballon sites. Together they went through an intense training program building bonds of friendship, though not all the women in the group saw eye to eye leading to some issues among the team.
After a chance meeting at the train station, Effie once again crosses paths with Nathan, a Flying Officer from Barbados serving on a base in England. Sparks fly and the two find themselves falling for each other. But can their love survive the trials of war?
This is not just a love story or a story about women serving in the military. Through the cast of characters, it explores tough subject matter including racism, biracial relationships, pregnancy out of wedlock and alcoholism as well as others.
This book was a heart-warming story of love, friendship, perseverance, and strength. I found myself rooting for Effie and Nathan but also loved the bond shared between Effie and Alice and the way the group of girls comes together for each other.
Thank you to Bookouture for the ARC of this book. This was a refreshing read that was so enjoyable that I read in one sitting.
July 4, 2025
The premise of this novel had everything I usually enjoy, historical fiction set during the Second World War, featuring strong female characters who choose to join the WAAF (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force) to support the war effort. Effie, a young twenty-year-old corporal, is sent off for training alongside her new friends to learn how to handle barrage balloons.
I was expecting a story that focused more on wartime life and historical detail, but in truth, The East End Girls is, above all, a romance. The historical setting often takes a back seat, which isn’t necessarily a flaw, just not quite what I was hoping for.
Effie falls for Nathan almost instantly when they meet on a train platform, the only problem being that she’s already engaged to Leonard. I have to admit the romance left me a little disappointed. Many scenes felt clichéd or overly predictable. For example, I found it hard to believe that Effie only "realises" she’s in love with Nathan halfway through the novel, when up to that point, all her thoughts had been consumed by him and she’d already questioned why she’d never felt the same way about her fiancé.
That said, the novel remains a pleasant and easy read, it simply wasn’t quite the story I was hoping for. I’m sure it will appeal more to readers looking for a light wartime romance than those seeking detailed historical fiction.
Thanks to NetGalley and to Bookouture for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview!
I was expecting a story that focused more on wartime life and historical detail, but in truth, The East End Girls is, above all, a romance. The historical setting often takes a back seat, which isn’t necessarily a flaw, just not quite what I was hoping for.
Effie falls for Nathan almost instantly when they meet on a train platform, the only problem being that she’s already engaged to Leonard. I have to admit the romance left me a little disappointed. Many scenes felt clichéd or overly predictable. For example, I found it hard to believe that Effie only "realises" she’s in love with Nathan halfway through the novel, when up to that point, all her thoughts had been consumed by him and she’d already questioned why she’d never felt the same way about her fiancé.
That said, the novel remains a pleasant and easy read, it simply wasn’t quite the story I was hoping for. I’m sure it will appeal more to readers looking for a light wartime romance than those seeking detailed historical fiction.
Thanks to NetGalley and to Bookouture for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview!
July 18, 2025
This was a brilliant first book in a new series by Jean Fullerton. I consider myself very well read in books set during World War 2 but this is the first time that any have mentioned the balloons that were used to protect London targets. Learning about new parts to the war interests me greatly and who better to read it from than the Queen of Impeccable Research, herself!
I have read and loved most of Jean's previous books and I can't wait to see where she goes with this series and who of the team, the next book may be about. I love the sense of community that comes with her characters and the fact that there are always a baddy or two thrown in for good measure. The sense of the times is clearly captured in her writing and although, she has written many, they are never the same!
If I did have any twitches about this book it would be that the initial chapter, that throws you into an action scene, isn't revisited later on in the story (I think!) As after that it goes to '11 weeks later'.
The other element is that we only find out that Nathan is black (despite mentions of darker skin and Barbados) halfway through the book and I would have thought that, because of the times, he would have received a lot more racism than he actually encountered.
Those are not huge criticisms, and easily forgotten when reading such a warm and interesting book. Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this tale. I look forward to the next one!
I have read and loved most of Jean's previous books and I can't wait to see where she goes with this series and who of the team, the next book may be about. I love the sense of community that comes with her characters and the fact that there are always a baddy or two thrown in for good measure. The sense of the times is clearly captured in her writing and although, she has written many, they are never the same!
If I did have any twitches about this book it would be that the initial chapter, that throws you into an action scene, isn't revisited later on in the story (I think!) As after that it goes to '11 weeks later'.
The other element is that we only find out that Nathan is black (despite mentions of darker skin and Barbados) halfway through the book and I would have thought that, because of the times, he would have received a lot more racism than he actually encountered.
Those are not huge criticisms, and easily forgotten when reading such a warm and interesting book. Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this tale. I look forward to the next one!
August 18, 2025
📆 single, linear timeline
👀 dual POV, 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
Anyone who knows me, knows that this falls into one of my most read genres. They are what I affectionately call "you know what you're getting" which I know, for some people, is what they don't like. What I mean by this is that there'll almost certainly be a group of young women from diverse backgrounds, working together to help the war effort. Usually they fall in love with the local soldiers, and at least one will be widowed/lose her fiancé before they get married. Often there's an unmarried mother. I love them because although they have heartbreaking storylines, the familiarity feels safe, and I like a nice easy read from time to time
But The East End Girls is different. Whilst some of the above is true, we also follow the story of one of the men. Nathan is not just a brave pilot, but also helping get SOE operatives in and out of France. Rather than just knowing he is either home, or flying, we know exactly what he is doing. For me, that adds another exciting layer to the story.
As always with these books I feel like I've gained a whole new group of friends in Effie and the gang. Their joys are my joys and my heart hurts for their losses. I really can't wait to see what happens next for The East End Girls.
👀 dual POV, 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
Anyone who knows me, knows that this falls into one of my most read genres. They are what I affectionately call "you know what you're getting" which I know, for some people, is what they don't like. What I mean by this is that there'll almost certainly be a group of young women from diverse backgrounds, working together to help the war effort. Usually they fall in love with the local soldiers, and at least one will be widowed/lose her fiancé before they get married. Often there's an unmarried mother. I love them because although they have heartbreaking storylines, the familiarity feels safe, and I like a nice easy read from time to time
But The East End Girls is different. Whilst some of the above is true, we also follow the story of one of the men. Nathan is not just a brave pilot, but also helping get SOE operatives in and out of France. Rather than just knowing he is either home, or flying, we know exactly what he is doing. For me, that adds another exciting layer to the story.
As always with these books I feel like I've gained a whole new group of friends in Effie and the gang. Their joys are my joys and my heart hurts for their losses. I really can't wait to see what happens next for The East End Girls.
May 22, 2025
If you are looking for an exciting and heartwarming World War II story The East End Girls is the story for you. Not only does our main heroine follow her heart in her career in working in the WAAF she also defys the wishes of her parents for standing up for what she believes in by sticking by the man she loves. I will admit her parents are slightly hypocritical but the love that Effie and Nathan have for each other makes up for that.
Our main heroine Effie decides to join the WAAF much to the dismay of her parents and her fiance Leonard. Along this journey she meets some other young ladies who become her dearest friends. She also meets the dashing Nathan a pilot from Barbados. As they get to know each other sparks start to fly.
Effie later realizes that her current fiance Leonard is not for her and she breaks it off. However, her parents don't take to kindly to Nathan but as mentioned before she stands her ground and will marry him no matter what they think. However a couple of days before the wedding Nathan is declared missing in action and soon Effie begins to wonder if she will ever see him again.
Thankfully this book ended on a happy note. Overall this story was impressive and thay is what matters.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
Our main heroine Effie decides to join the WAAF much to the dismay of her parents and her fiance Leonard. Along this journey she meets some other young ladies who become her dearest friends. She also meets the dashing Nathan a pilot from Barbados. As they get to know each other sparks start to fly.
Effie later realizes that her current fiance Leonard is not for her and she breaks it off. However, her parents don't take to kindly to Nathan but as mentioned before she stands her ground and will marry him no matter what they think. However a couple of days before the wedding Nathan is declared missing in action and soon Effie begins to wonder if she will ever see him again.
Thankfully this book ended on a happy note. Overall this story was impressive and thay is what matters.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
June 28, 2025
This book is the first in a series about the Women’s Auxillary Air Force during the middle part WW2 and the women who were a part of it, Ellie, Alice, Nell and George. These ladies are all a part of the barrage balloon sites which are critical in helping to deter the enemy bombers, especially in the major cities. These ladies come from all walks of life and different backgrounds. In this book it is about Effie Weston, a 20 year old from a strong Christian family who is engaged to Leonard. The one brief moment, a chance encounter with a handsome young man named Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald, that Ellie’s life could be changed forever. The question is does she want it to change, because it become a huge impact on not only her but her relationship with her family.
This book does focus more on romance than it does the friendship between the ladies working together and where exactly they are working. Which is a slight disappointment because usually the books like these talk about that. Now that being said it did touch on some topics that are not spoken about, especially during the war and afterwards because not all relationships were acceptable. It was an interesting read and we will see how the series goes from here.
This book does focus more on romance than it does the friendship between the ladies working together and where exactly they are working. Which is a slight disappointment because usually the books like these talk about that. Now that being said it did touch on some topics that are not spoken about, especially during the war and afterwards because not all relationships were acceptable. It was an interesting read and we will see how the series goes from here.
August 16, 2025
In the first book in this powerful new World War II historical fiction series, readers follow Corporal Effie Weston as she embarks on her service in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force to defend London’s East End from the Blitz. Joined by new friends Alice, Nell, and George, they know their work is just as important as the rest of the war effort and hold onto their friendship to get through the dark days of the war. After meeting Flight Officer Nathan Fitzgerald, Effie falls head over heels in love despite being engaged to someone else, but her parents object to her relationship with Nathan. Choosing between her past and her future, Effie must make hard decisions with the support of her friends after Nathan is shot down over France in this powerful start to a new series. Brilliantly written, the characters are the absolute stars of the book, and readers will love Effie’s friendships and relationships with other characters because they really build out her character arc. The emotional storyline hits the right beats, and readers will love the depth of detail in every character’s backstory and the larger setting of World War II in this well-written new release from Jean Fullerton.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
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