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Coronation Close #5
Bad Company on Coronation Close
The BRAND NEW instalment in Lizzie Lane's bestselling Coronation Close series! A heartwrenching and inspiring World War Two saga of friendship, courage and love in the face of danger! Perfect for fans of Rosie Goodwin and Jean Fullerton. With the men still away fighting, the women keep the home fires burning - some more than others…
Bristol 1942
Following the death of her controlling husband, Margaret Routledge is no longer the downtrodden church mouse she once was. Now she’s the talk of the Close, frequenting seedy pubs and clubs where men gather to pick up good-time girls. It seems Margaret is past redemption until she sees neighbour Jenny Crawford’s headstrong 16-year-old daughter Gloria on the arm of a man of ill repute, and her motherly instincts return.
By contrast, Jenny's eldest, land girl Tilly, has a heart of gold, but trouble brews when she helps a vulnerable mother and child with a dangerous past.
A wayward daughter only adds fire to Jenny’s personal problems, which she chooses to keep to herself in the hope that they will go away.
Meanwhile, Thelma Dawson has landed herself a promotion, but will it conflict with her ongoing romance with Peter van Luntzen – and where is he? Will he come back and make good on his promise?
If you love Coronation Close, you'll adore Lizzie's other series - try The Tobacco Girls and The Orchard Cottage Hospital
Bristol 1942
Following the death of her controlling husband, Margaret Routledge is no longer the downtrodden church mouse she once was. Now she’s the talk of the Close, frequenting seedy pubs and clubs where men gather to pick up good-time girls. It seems Margaret is past redemption until she sees neighbour Jenny Crawford’s headstrong 16-year-old daughter Gloria on the arm of a man of ill repute, and her motherly instincts return.
By contrast, Jenny's eldest, land girl Tilly, has a heart of gold, but trouble brews when she helps a vulnerable mother and child with a dangerous past.
A wayward daughter only adds fire to Jenny’s personal problems, which she chooses to keep to herself in the hope that they will go away.
Meanwhile, Thelma Dawson has landed herself a promotion, but will it conflict with her ongoing romance with Peter van Luntzen – and where is he? Will he come back and make good on his promise?
If you love Coronation Close, you'll adore Lizzie's other series - try The Tobacco Girls and The Orchard Cottage Hospital
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2026
199 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I adore this series and it was great to be back with the familiar characters on Coronation Close. I thought the last book was a little light but with this one the author is back to her best.
Jenny and Thelma are still to the fore but the story mainly revolves around Jenny's two daughters, Tilly who is now a land girl in Suffolk and loving the life and Gloria who is a right little madam and doing what she pleases. She is in a relationship which I think is going to cause her terrible heartbreak down the line.
Tilly has her own adventures down on the farm but she's still a level headed kind girl.
Jenny has a problem which she has been putting off but now knows it has to be faced. The outcome is unpredictable.
Thelma will be having a new way of life after having a talk with her boss at the store she works in and loves.
Altogether is was a fantastic read and I can't wait for the next installment! I'd highly recommend it!
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an early copy.
Jenny and Thelma are still to the fore but the story mainly revolves around Jenny's two daughters, Tilly who is now a land girl in Suffolk and loving the life and Gloria who is a right little madam and doing what she pleases. She is in a relationship which I think is going to cause her terrible heartbreak down the line.
Tilly has her own adventures down on the farm but she's still a level headed kind girl.
Jenny has a problem which she has been putting off but now knows it has to be faced. The outcome is unpredictable.
Thelma will be having a new way of life after having a talk with her boss at the store she works in and loves.
Altogether is was a fantastic read and I can't wait for the next installment! I'd highly recommend it!
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an early copy.
December 13, 2025
What a wonderful new book in the series. In the 30’s the community on Coronation street two woman are going through challenging times during the war. They find the difficulties in trying to keep their homes going without the men around. To find out more you’ll need to read it.
December 10, 2025
Not all problems shared are then halved.
Bristol 1942 with the war still ongoing for the street makes this gripping saga one of the best in this series.
Margaret Routledge is the talk of this street after her controlling policeman husband Percy's death, having fun.
With Gloria and Thelma with enough worries of their own, this book makes you love the characters in bad company.
Sad times lonely times worrying times and problem times, Coronation Close has always got something going on, with neighbours sticking together.
I hope to be reading more, with the bonus of plenty of added banter all the way.
Absolutely Brilliant read
Bristol 1942 with the war still ongoing for the street makes this gripping saga one of the best in this series.
Margaret Routledge is the talk of this street after her controlling policeman husband Percy's death, having fun.
With Gloria and Thelma with enough worries of their own, this book makes you love the characters in bad company.
Sad times lonely times worrying times and problem times, Coronation Close has always got something going on, with neighbours sticking together.
I hope to be reading more, with the bonus of plenty of added banter all the way.
Absolutely Brilliant read
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have read all the books in the series and looked forward to this new addition - I see that there is to be another addition as well - which is welcome given the ending of Bad Company on Coronation Close.
This book continues the lives of previous characters and introduces some new ones. Jenny has her own trials - both personal and through her younger daughter Gloria who has started a relationship with a man old enough to be her father and who has dubious business connections. Her elder daughter Tilly has joined the Land Army and has fallen in love with the farmers son. She helps a mum and her son who have fallen on hard times. Hopefully we will find out how their story unfolds as well.
There’s Thelma and her lifetime opportunity in Bertram’s where she becomes manageress and hopes to eventually become the owner, and her children. She also has missed the love of her life who it seems is undertaking covert War work in his Dutch homeland.
And finally Margaret - whose husband met a timely demise in a previous book. She goes off the rails and does all the things that aren’t particularly maternal much to the chagrin of her daughter who hasn’t fallen far from her fathers tree. She also sees the error of her ways when she spots Gloria in a less than salubrious nightclub.
Jenny’s medical story - and to say more would be a massive spoiler - really made me realise how grateful we should all be to the NHS - I had an idea that doctors had to be paid for (my own Gran had left it late to call one for my Dad who had meningitis following measles in 1933) but it hadn’t dawned on me that people had to pay for consultant consultations and then surgery and possible after treatment.
Hopefully we will follow Jenny a little more in book 6.
Once again Lizzie Lane has pulled out all the stops and has written a well researched book - full of interesting characters and one’s that make you think ‘Why?’ And ‘Whatever were you thinking?’
Can’t wait for book 6
This book continues the lives of previous characters and introduces some new ones. Jenny has her own trials - both personal and through her younger daughter Gloria who has started a relationship with a man old enough to be her father and who has dubious business connections. Her elder daughter Tilly has joined the Land Army and has fallen in love with the farmers son. She helps a mum and her son who have fallen on hard times. Hopefully we will find out how their story unfolds as well.
There’s Thelma and her lifetime opportunity in Bertram’s where she becomes manageress and hopes to eventually become the owner, and her children. She also has missed the love of her life who it seems is undertaking covert War work in his Dutch homeland.
And finally Margaret - whose husband met a timely demise in a previous book. She goes off the rails and does all the things that aren’t particularly maternal much to the chagrin of her daughter who hasn’t fallen far from her fathers tree. She also sees the error of her ways when she spots Gloria in a less than salubrious nightclub.
Jenny’s medical story - and to say more would be a massive spoiler - really made me realise how grateful we should all be to the NHS - I had an idea that doctors had to be paid for (my own Gran had left it late to call one for my Dad who had meningitis following measles in 1933) but it hadn’t dawned on me that people had to pay for consultant consultations and then surgery and possible after treatment.
Hopefully we will follow Jenny a little more in book 6.
Once again Lizzie Lane has pulled out all the stops and has written a well researched book - full of interesting characters and one’s that make you think ‘Why?’ And ‘Whatever were you thinking?’
Can’t wait for book 6
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The 5th book in the Coronation Close Series. With the men away at war the women are looking after their families. Jenny Crawford and Thelma Dawson are back and this time around we get to see more of Margaret Routledge who, having lost the shackles of her domineering husband, is breaking free with a vengeance.
Briefly, Jenny’s eldest Tilly left home to work as a land girl. She is happy at the farm in Suffolk but a good deed, helping a homeless mother and son, puts her in danger. Meanwhile her wayward sister Gloria has fallen for an older man and is oblivious to his true colours. Jenny has her own worries but her children come first. Thelma is given an exciting opportunity at work but her excitement is tempered after her home is broken into.
This is a very enjoyable historical saga series set in Bristol in 1942; during WWII. There really is a lot going on this time and I think my favourite of the series so far. I liked the mix of city and country life and the difference between Jenny’s two daughters is a real nature not nurture moment. A very entertaining read and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Briefly, Jenny’s eldest Tilly left home to work as a land girl. She is happy at the farm in Suffolk but a good deed, helping a homeless mother and son, puts her in danger. Meanwhile her wayward sister Gloria has fallen for an older man and is oblivious to his true colours. Jenny has her own worries but her children come first. Thelma is given an exciting opportunity at work but her excitement is tempered after her home is broken into.
This is a very enjoyable historical saga series set in Bristol in 1942; during WWII. There really is a lot going on this time and I think my favourite of the series so far. I liked the mix of city and country life and the difference between Jenny’s two daughters is a real nature not nurture moment. A very entertaining read and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars rounded up
Coronation Close #5
Bristol 1942: Following the death of her controlling husband, Margaret Routledge is no longer the doentrodden church mouse she once was. Now, she's the talk of the Close, frequenting seedy pubs and clubs where men gather to pick up good-time girls. It seems Margaret has passed redemption until she sees neighbour Jenny Crawford's head strong sixteen-year-old daughter Gloria on the arm of a man of ill repute, and her motherly instincts return.
It was nice to be back on Coronation Close. Set in the middle of WWII, even though there was not a lot mentioned about it. The characters are well-portrayed. We get a mix of city and country life. There is some repetition. There's lots going on in Coronation Close, and not all of it is good.
Published 15th January 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LizzieLane for my ARC of #BadCompanyOnCoronationClose in exchange for an honest review.
Coronation Close #5
Bristol 1942: Following the death of her controlling husband, Margaret Routledge is no longer the doentrodden church mouse she once was. Now, she's the talk of the Close, frequenting seedy pubs and clubs where men gather to pick up good-time girls. It seems Margaret has passed redemption until she sees neighbour Jenny Crawford's head strong sixteen-year-old daughter Gloria on the arm of a man of ill repute, and her motherly instincts return.
It was nice to be back on Coronation Close. Set in the middle of WWII, even though there was not a lot mentioned about it. The characters are well-portrayed. We get a mix of city and country life. There is some repetition. There's lots going on in Coronation Close, and not all of it is good.
Published 15th January 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LizzieLane for my ARC of #BadCompanyOnCoronationClose in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2025
This is quite an entertaining read set in the Second World War, telling of ordinary families and how they cope. The War itself seems to have little impact in this book, other than one of the girls going off to join the Land Army and the men of the homes being away. The characters are well portrayed and provide a snapshot of the mores and values of the time. There is some repetition in parts, but over all its a good read, light and entertaining.
It isn't vital to have read the other books in the series, as the author introduces Thelma, Jenny and Margaret and provides enough back story to follow their lives. Seeing how Jenny copes with Gloria, who has become a wild child, and how Margaret rebels against the violence and abuse of her marriage was interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It isn't vital to have read the other books in the series, as the author introduces Thelma, Jenny and Margaret and provides enough back story to follow their lives. Seeing how Jenny copes with Gloria, who has become a wild child, and how Margaret rebels against the violence and abuse of her marriage was interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2026
I was so excited to dive into the next instalment in the Coronation Close series, and once again, Lizzie doesn't disappoint! Bad Company on Coronation Close is yet another brilliant read that had me hooked from start to finish. Lizzie has a remarkable way of bringing her characters to life — they feel real, relatable, and keep you invested in their stories.
The pacing was spot-on, and the way the plot weaves together is both engaging and satisfying. I won’t spoil anything, but I’ll just say that, as always, I was left wanting more once I reached the final page. It's always a bit of a let down when the book ends, but I’m already eagerly awaiting the next instalment in this fantastic series.
If you’ve loved Lizzie's previous books, or if you’re new to the Coronation Close world, you won’t want to miss this one! Highly recommend!
The pacing was spot-on, and the way the plot weaves together is both engaging and satisfying. I won’t spoil anything, but I’ll just say that, as always, I was left wanting more once I reached the final page. It's always a bit of a let down when the book ends, but I’m already eagerly awaiting the next instalment in this fantastic series.
If you’ve loved Lizzie's previous books, or if you’re new to the Coronation Close world, you won’t want to miss this one! Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is based on the lives of three women in Bristol, England, in 1942. Margaret is a widow, who was abused by her husband. Since his death, she has frequented pubs and wears makeup. Jenny has one daughter who is a land girl, and one who has taken up with an unsuitable older man. She is also facing a health crisis. Thelma adores her job, and worries about Peter, who is in the Dutch military.
I'm a huge fan of World War II historical fiction, but this book was not a favorite. The writing felt very choppy, and because it went back and forth between the characters unevenly, I never felt like I got to know them.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I'm a huge fan of World War II historical fiction, but this book was not a favorite. The writing felt very choppy, and because it went back and forth between the characters unevenly, I never felt like I got to know them.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
January 28, 2026
Once again, we join the residents of Coronation Close, and I'm really enjoying this series. World War II is raging, and reading about the residents feels as comforting as a nice pair of slippers—so cozy. The story has its moments of sadness and challenges for the families.
In this installment, we meet Gloria and Thelma, along with their families, and a few older characters make appearances. The descriptions of the town and countryside are lovely, especially as one of the girls joins the Land Army. It's nice to have such a mixture of characters and experiences.
As always, Lizzie’s books are well-written and enjoyable, making it easy to get lost in the story.
In this installment, we meet Gloria and Thelma, along with their families, and a few older characters make appearances. The descriptions of the town and countryside are lovely, especially as one of the girls joins the Land Army. It's nice to have such a mixture of characters and experiences.
As always, Lizzie’s books are well-written and enjoyable, making it easy to get lost in the story.
February 6, 2026
The latest instalment in the Coronation Close series did not disappoint. We get a glimpse into Margaret Routledge's life following the death of her husband which is told alongside Jenny Crawford's story. Whilst Margaret has slid into a life of drinking and carousing, Jenny is faced with trying to deal with her young daughter who has taken up with a much older and unsavory man. And Jenny comes face to face with Charlie who had previously broken her heart. Each woman must face up to their situation as the war changes the fate of the women on the Home Front.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It was great to be back with familiar faces in the form of neighbours Jenny and Thelma. Thelma gets a promotion that might effect her life dramatically and Jenny has some possibly devestating health issues. Jenny is also worried about her wayward daughter Gloria who I think is a right little madam who needs a wakeup call. Her other daughter Tilly is such a sweetheart and is working on a farm as a land girl. There is also another neighbour in this book Margaret who is widowed. This is a thrilling addition that allowed me to escape back to the lives of characters who feel like family.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the fifth in the series and I'm so glad I went back and read books 1-4 before this. Even though you could read it first you'd miss the growth of the characters.
This centers more on what is happening with Thelma and Jenny. Jenny's daughter is young but hanging out with a man her father's age. Her other daughter, Tilly, is serving as a Land Girl. Thelma's new beau is off fighting.
This is not great literature but I like the characters a lot, it is a quick read and very enjoyable.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood for providing me with a digital copy.
This centers more on what is happening with Thelma and Jenny. Jenny's daughter is young but hanging out with a man her father's age. Her other daughter, Tilly, is serving as a Land Girl. Thelma's new beau is off fighting.
This is not great literature but I like the characters a lot, it is a quick read and very enjoyable.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood for providing me with a digital copy.
January 17, 2026
This is the fifth book in this wonderful historical saga series. From start to finish this was such a great read and I was hooked on the story and the great characters. Lizzie Lane has a fantastic way with words and her descriptions of Bristol in this era really comes to life through the pages. It was great to be back with all the characters and see how life is treating them. The main characters each have their own problems to deal with and my heart really went out to Jenny as she struggles with a very worrying problem. Again this was a fabulous read in this series and I was delighted to discover that book 6 will be published in November and is available now to preorder.
January 19, 2026
Oh my goodness me
What a great storyline I've not been able to put it down great to meet up with old friends fair chuffed for Thelma and worries galore for Jenny but as always Lizzie weaves the story so masterfully or should I say mistressly lol what a joy to read can't wait for November I have ordered it if you haven't already read any of coronation close then you are missing out big time I would give them more than five stars and would definitely recommend them
What a great storyline I've not been able to put it down great to meet up with old friends fair chuffed for Thelma and worries galore for Jenny but as always Lizzie weaves the story so masterfully or should I say mistressly lol what a joy to read can't wait for November I have ordered it if you haven't already read any of coronation close then you are missing out big time I would give them more than five stars and would definitely recommend them
January 26, 2026
this is the 5th book in this series and again focuses on the life of two main residents of Coronation Close Jenny and Thelma
This book felt like a catch up with things that have happened in the past repeating throughout the book the same thing such as jenny friend Robins son caused the fire of his store and Thelma waiting for her new live to return.
it didn't feel like it moved on much yes both Jenny daughters had the start of their own story maybe this will be carried on on the next
This book felt like a catch up with things that have happened in the past repeating throughout the book the same thing such as jenny friend Robins son caused the fire of his store and Thelma waiting for her new live to return.
it didn't feel like it moved on much yes both Jenny daughters had the start of their own story maybe this will be carried on on the next
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 15, 2025I received a free copy of, Bad Company on Coronation Close, by Lizzie Lane, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book is part of the Coronation Close series. Its 1942 in Bristol and the men are at war, and the women are at home, some fighting their own battles. This was a good read, a some what heavy read, I felt for Jenny and Tilly.
January 21, 2026
Book 5 of 6 - These books are so well researched. I suggest reading them in order. A story of WWII in Bristol. Friendship and love. It is great!
February 8, 2026
Another fantastic read.
Really enjoyed this book, have read all her books and can't wait for the next one .I find her books totally captivating.
Really enjoyed this book, have read all her books and can't wait for the next one .I find her books totally captivating.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The nostalgia in wartime stories can be quite heartwarming with a sense of community that we don't see much of nowadays. The time wasn't without burden though and we see the difficulties that people faced during the war.
I liked the mix of city and country in this. Things seemed so much easier for Tilly and there's a sense of inevitability with her and Johnnie. She's the complete opposite of her sister who,quite frankly, is selfish and quite irritating.
Jenny and Thelma look out for each other and at some point I think they'll end up warming to Margaret. There's more to come with this series so it'll be interesting to see where people go to next. There's a battle for some and exciting new ventures for others
I liked the mix of city and country in this. Things seemed so much easier for Tilly and there's a sense of inevitability with her and Johnnie. She's the complete opposite of her sister who,quite frankly, is selfish and quite irritating.
Jenny and Thelma look out for each other and at some point I think they'll end up warming to Margaret. There's more to come with this series so it'll be interesting to see where people go to next. There's a battle for some and exciting new ventures for others
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews