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The Seaside Girls #5
Silver Linings for The Seaside Girls
A BRAND NEW heartwarming WWII saga of friendship, courage and hope from the bestselling author Tracy Baines! Perfect for fans of Rosie Goodwin, Nancy Revell and Kitty Neale! ❤️'A charming, heart-warming saga!' bestselling author, Rosie Clarke. Can old wounds heal in time to save the day?
Cleethorpes, 1941
Singer Jessie Delaney is back home after narrowly escaping the London Blitz with her life. Her confidence in tatters, she’s playing it safe; performing at the Café Dansant - hardly the future she dreamed of.
With husband Johnny Randolph serving overseas, Frances Randolph is busy juggling the business, motherhood and keeping West End star Ruby Randolph out of trouble. Much to Frances’s relief, the arrival of a handsome naval officer full of attractive and exciting ideas provides an earnest and timely distraction for Ruby. Could this spur Ruby on to new beginnings?
Young, talented amateur entertainer, Peggy Marshall has been left in the care of her feckless stepmother while her father serves on the dangerous Atlantic convoys. Performing is her escape, but as her star rises, danger lurks, and Peggy has nowhere to turn.
With everyone doing their bit, the Seaside Girls pool their talents to support the community and also their men at war. Will heartbreak and danger scupper their efforts – or will the show go on, no matter what…
Praise for Tracy
'Brilliant brilliant a brilliant read I really enjoyed it from start to finish I caring wait for the next one Tracey Baines you are one amazing storyteller. Thank you for this great series' - Reader Review
'Great story. I was right there from the first page and carried beautifully to the end. Couldn’t put it down from one drama to another. Loved it!' - Reader Review
‘A charming, heart-warming saga about ambition, hard work and courage in the cut and thrust of a world often driven by jealousy and spite’. - Rosie Clarke
'Brilliant and gripping storyline. Couldn't put the books down. Cant wait to read more of Tracy Baines, and hopefully more stories like these'- Reader Review
'Brilliant book. Great story , can’t wait to continue reading next one, few sad bits but you know it’s going to come good' - Reader Review
‘Immerse yourself in the exciting, evocative world of Wartime theatre. I highly recommend this book.’ - Fenella J Miller
‘An emotional, entertaining read that had me gripped!’ - Sheila Riley
'An absorbing and poignant saga. I loved it from the very beginning and would highly recommend it...' - Elaine Roberts
'Terrific - beautifully written. The book twinkles. A well-crafted and satisfying story' - Maisie Thomas
Cleethorpes, 1941
Singer Jessie Delaney is back home after narrowly escaping the London Blitz with her life. Her confidence in tatters, she’s playing it safe; performing at the Café Dansant - hardly the future she dreamed of.
With husband Johnny Randolph serving overseas, Frances Randolph is busy juggling the business, motherhood and keeping West End star Ruby Randolph out of trouble. Much to Frances’s relief, the arrival of a handsome naval officer full of attractive and exciting ideas provides an earnest and timely distraction for Ruby. Could this spur Ruby on to new beginnings?
Young, talented amateur entertainer, Peggy Marshall has been left in the care of her feckless stepmother while her father serves on the dangerous Atlantic convoys. Performing is her escape, but as her star rises, danger lurks, and Peggy has nowhere to turn.
With everyone doing their bit, the Seaside Girls pool their talents to support the community and also their men at war. Will heartbreak and danger scupper their efforts – or will the show go on, no matter what…
Praise for Tracy
'Brilliant brilliant a brilliant read I really enjoyed it from start to finish I caring wait for the next one Tracey Baines you are one amazing storyteller. Thank you for this great series' - Reader Review
'Great story. I was right there from the first page and carried beautifully to the end. Couldn’t put it down from one drama to another. Loved it!' - Reader Review
‘A charming, heart-warming saga about ambition, hard work and courage in the cut and thrust of a world often driven by jealousy and spite’. - Rosie Clarke
'Brilliant and gripping storyline. Couldn't put the books down. Cant wait to read more of Tracy Baines, and hopefully more stories like these'- Reader Review
'Brilliant book. Great story , can’t wait to continue reading next one, few sad bits but you know it’s going to come good' - Reader Review
‘Immerse yourself in the exciting, evocative world of Wartime theatre. I highly recommend this book.’ - Fenella J Miller
‘An emotional, entertaining read that had me gripped!’ - Sheila Riley
'An absorbing and poignant saga. I loved it from the very beginning and would highly recommend it...' - Elaine Roberts
'Terrific - beautifully written. The book twinkles. A well-crafted and satisfying story' - Maisie Thomas
- GenresHistorical Fiction
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2026
About the author
Tracy Baines
20 books52 followersTracy Baines writes about friendship, family, and finding your inner strength when life gets tough. Her stories celebrate strong women and the importance of community spirit. Tracy’s bestselling historical sagas are inspired by her love of the seaside and its contrast with the gritty industrial fishing ports on the east coast of England where she was born.
Her debut novel The Variety Girls (now The Seaside Girls) was shortlisted for the RNA Saga Award 2020.
Her grandmother’s stories and her own family heritage are the inspiration behind the Fishers Wharf series which follows the Hardy and the Evans families and the friendship that grows between two women from opposite sides of the class divide.
Tracy lives in Dorset with her husband, and dogs Harry and Betsy. Her children and grandchildren live close enough for babysitting duties.
When she’s not writing Tracy is either gardening, rummaging in antique shops or finding a host of other lovely ways to procrastinate. Coffee and cake are usually involved.
Her debut novel The Variety Girls (now The Seaside Girls) was shortlisted for the RNA Saga Award 2020.
Her grandmother’s stories and her own family heritage are the inspiration behind the Fishers Wharf series which follows the Hardy and the Evans families and the friendship that grows between two women from opposite sides of the class divide.
Tracy lives in Dorset with her husband, and dogs Harry and Betsy. Her children and grandchildren live close enough for babysitting duties.
When she’s not writing Tracy is either gardening, rummaging in antique shops or finding a host of other lovely ways to procrastinate. Coffee and cake are usually involved.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 4, 2026
A wonderful WWII saga. It has so much charm and courage with these brave women during that time. Camaraderie is so important during wartimes and you see that in this story. Very heartwarming.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really like this series. The way the author has so graciously dated each chapter makes keeping track of what is going on so much easier. I don't feel tossed about, but as if I am on a journey back in time experiencing what life might have been like for many citizens in England.
Bombs drop. Struggles occur. Rations increase. Shortages grow. Separations and loss grow. Open the book and witness it all first had. And if you are like me, sit in awe of all that the British survived. The variety of characters; their backgrounds, their demographics, their jobs; tell the story of life in war torn Britain. Discover what famiies, at least my family, never talked about.
Peggy's survival had me jumping in happiness. Her mother is dead. Her father is off doing his bit. Her stepmother is taking, and taking, without a care for Peggy putting her at risk. When Peggy makes it to the stage all she sees is pound notes, putting a young Peggy at increasing risk. Tensions grew until actions could have horrible circumstances. Sometimes good does conquer evil.
Jessie is back from London after barely surviving a bombing. She is with her mother, grace so she can recover as she struggles to pick up the pieces. She gave me hope that love conquers all, determination is greater than Hitler's bombs. I was so excited for her wedding and honeymoon. Her bravery left me silent when she returns to London to pick up the pieces of her career as her husband flies into the unknown.
I found myself completely invested in the story. I knew there were lots of sadness and horrors to come. I knew that I would continue to get glimpses into the concept of making do. I cried so many tears, both of happiness and sadness. The emotional roller coaster grabbed me. I opened every chapter, excited to see what would happen. Now I sit and ponder what is going to happen next. The war is far from over. Anything could happen.
Bombs drop. Struggles occur. Rations increase. Shortages grow. Separations and loss grow. Open the book and witness it all first had. And if you are like me, sit in awe of all that the British survived. The variety of characters; their backgrounds, their demographics, their jobs; tell the story of life in war torn Britain. Discover what famiies, at least my family, never talked about.
Peggy's survival had me jumping in happiness. Her mother is dead. Her father is off doing his bit. Her stepmother is taking, and taking, without a care for Peggy putting her at risk. When Peggy makes it to the stage all she sees is pound notes, putting a young Peggy at increasing risk. Tensions grew until actions could have horrible circumstances. Sometimes good does conquer evil.
Jessie is back from London after barely surviving a bombing. She is with her mother, grace so she can recover as she struggles to pick up the pieces. She gave me hope that love conquers all, determination is greater than Hitler's bombs. I was so excited for her wedding and honeymoon. Her bravery left me silent when she returns to London to pick up the pieces of her career as her husband flies into the unknown.
I found myself completely invested in the story. I knew there were lots of sadness and horrors to come. I knew that I would continue to get glimpses into the concept of making do. I cried so many tears, both of happiness and sadness. The emotional roller coaster grabbed me. I opened every chapter, excited to see what would happen. Now I sit and ponder what is going to happen next. The war is far from over. Anything could happen.
June 22, 2026
Silver Linings for the Seaside Girls by Tracy Baines follows some singer/actors through the war years. This is the second in the saga. The main characters are Frances, Ruby, and Jessie. Jessie had finally made it to the West End when a bomb hit and as Jessie went back into the theatre to fetch someone left, she ended up severely injured. The two that assisted her did not make it. She’d come home to recuperate and was still walking with a stick, but getting stronger every day. Ruby had been part of a duo, she and her brother Johnny had been a hit on both sides of the Atlantic. She had helped heir mother hide the fact that Frances, the love of his life, had tried multiple times to contact him and in doing so, robbed him of the first three years of his daughter’s life. Jessie was a local start who wanted more, but she worked in local theatre and help others reach their potential.
This is an entertaining story of love and loss, betrayal, jealousy, and of course, loneliness. It is war time and buying things is getting harder and harder. All of these young women had interesting lives, interacting with other actors and singers as they navigated life. Roby had fallen in love with a married man. That had taught her many lessons. Frances now had a second child and she and Ruby lived together, awaiting Johnny’s return from the war. These are entertaining characters, facing many problems they would face war or not, but everything is harder with the war going on. London is coming back to life but all was not back to normal and theatre owners and the public had short memories. Made it harder for both Jessie and Ruby. Entertaining story. Good characters. Terrific setting. Good book.
I was invited to read Silver Linings for the Seaside Girls by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #TracyBaines #SilverLiningsForTheSeasideGirls
June 21, 2026
I have read the previous books in the series - if you are looking for the series then be aware some of the earlier books have had a couple of re-incarnations and may have differing titles. Just a little irksome note.
Back to this book - it follows on seamlessly from the previous books.
Jessie is back from London recovering from her bomb injuries and waiting for her wedding to Harry. She may have recovered physically from her bomb injuries but mentally will she be able to go back to London and further her career?
There is Frances - married to Johnny Randolph doing his bit with ENSA - overseas - who longs to see his 2 children. And his sister Ruby - who has her own issues and is recovering from a breakdown.
But the theatres the Randolph’s run need shows to keep morale up. The part about the pantomime was so heartfelt and Peggy - with her mimicry skills came into her own.
Ruby longs to be loved - will Mike prove to be that person? Who knows - he obviously is doing more war work than his job title would indicate.
So Ruby resurrects her career by returning to London - but her history follows and her first ‘serious’ play does not go to plan.
The book was left on a heartbreaking cliffhanger - but allows enough interest to want to know what happens next for the Variety Girls. Will Peggy succeed now her stepmother has disappeared? Will Ruby find success and love? Will Frances cope with 2 little ones and what next for Jessie?
Tracy Baines obviously has researched this book well and it’s well written with just enough of the back story that it could be read as a stand-alone - but I recommend the whole series.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in return for my honest opinion
Back to this book - it follows on seamlessly from the previous books.
Jessie is back from London recovering from her bomb injuries and waiting for her wedding to Harry. She may have recovered physically from her bomb injuries but mentally will she be able to go back to London and further her career?
There is Frances - married to Johnny Randolph doing his bit with ENSA - overseas - who longs to see his 2 children. And his sister Ruby - who has her own issues and is recovering from a breakdown.
But the theatres the Randolph’s run need shows to keep morale up. The part about the pantomime was so heartfelt and Peggy - with her mimicry skills came into her own.
Ruby longs to be loved - will Mike prove to be that person? Who knows - he obviously is doing more war work than his job title would indicate.
So Ruby resurrects her career by returning to London - but her history follows and her first ‘serious’ play does not go to plan.
The book was left on a heartbreaking cliffhanger - but allows enough interest to want to know what happens next for the Variety Girls. Will Peggy succeed now her stepmother has disappeared? Will Ruby find success and love? Will Frances cope with 2 little ones and what next for Jessie?
Tracy Baines obviously has researched this book well and it’s well written with just enough of the back story that it could be read as a stand-alone - but I recommend the whole series.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in return for my honest opinion
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Seaside Girls #5
Cleethorpes, 1941: Singer Jessie Delaney is back home after narrowly escaping the London Blitz with her life. Her confidence is in tatters, she's playing it safe, performing at the Cafe Dansant - hardly the future she dreamed of.
When husband Johnny Randolph served overseas, Frances Randolph is busy jiggling business, motherhood and keeping West End star Ruby Randolph out of trouble. Much to Frances relief, the arrival of a handsome naval officer full of attractive and exciting ideas provides an earnest and timely distraction for Ruby.
Young, talented amateur entertainer, Peggy Marshall has been left in the care of her feckless stepmother while her father serves on the dangerous Atlantic convoys. Performing is her escape.
With everyone doing their bit, the Seaside Girls pool thier talents to support the community and also their men at war.
What a lovely story. Set during WWII, Jessie Delaney, Frances Randolf and Peggy Marshall are doing their bit to keep things moving. Jessie is just back after escaping the Blitz. The story has been well-researched and beautifully written. Jessie, Frances and Peggy are strong, well-developed and likeable characters. I loved this book.
Published 21st June 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #TraceyBaines for my ARC of #SilverLiningsForTheSeasideGirls in exchange for an honest review.
Cleethorpes, 1941: Singer Jessie Delaney is back home after narrowly escaping the London Blitz with her life. Her confidence is in tatters, she's playing it safe, performing at the Cafe Dansant - hardly the future she dreamed of.
When husband Johnny Randolph served overseas, Frances Randolph is busy jiggling business, motherhood and keeping West End star Ruby Randolph out of trouble. Much to Frances relief, the arrival of a handsome naval officer full of attractive and exciting ideas provides an earnest and timely distraction for Ruby.
Young, talented amateur entertainer, Peggy Marshall has been left in the care of her feckless stepmother while her father serves on the dangerous Atlantic convoys. Performing is her escape.
With everyone doing their bit, the Seaside Girls pool thier talents to support the community and also their men at war.
What a lovely story. Set during WWII, Jessie Delaney, Frances Randolf and Peggy Marshall are doing their bit to keep things moving. Jessie is just back after escaping the Blitz. The story has been well-researched and beautifully written. Jessie, Frances and Peggy are strong, well-developed and likeable characters. I loved this book.
Published 21st June 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #TraceyBaines for my ARC of #SilverLiningsForTheSeasideGirls in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2026
In this new World War II historical fiction title, readers follow singer Jessie Delaney, business woman and working mother Frances Randolph, her sister the West End star Ruby Randolph, and amateur entertainer Peggy Marshall as the war continues to affect their lives in Cleethorpes. Jessie is playing it safe, while Peggy and Ruby are desperate to take professional risks and make it big, but as Ruby’s star rises, danger lurks and she has no one to help her, and Frances is similarly alone until a handsome naval officer arrives at her door. As the war continues, the Seaside Girls pitch in to help the community even as heartbreak and danger threaten everything they have built. Detailed and immersive, readers will love the alternating perspectives and the different experiences each woman goes through over the course of the novel. The characters are well-written and complex with detailed emotional arcs and relationships with other characters, and the West End and theatre elements really bring another level of detail to the story. The depth of detail brings 1941 and British entertainment culture to life, and World War II historical fiction fans will love this new novel from Tracy Baines and the four women that bring the book to life.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
October 22, 2026
Unfortunately, I didn't realise this wasn't the first book in the series. It's the fourth. Although I still very much enjoyed the story, I realised quite often that I had missed out on a lot by not reading the other three books first.
The author did a good job of recapping here and there, but it really wasn't enough. Jessie, Frances, Ruby and Ginny have all been through so much, and I felt their stories needed telling/reading before I read this.
In September 2024, I previously read this book and reviewed it. Rereading that review, I pretty much said exactly what I said here. Copying and pasting with a side note is appropriate, I believe!
CHANGES: Ginny isn't mentioned.
Jessie—a budding West End star—was hurt during the Blitz and has to return to Cleethorpes, where she struggles to find work.
Ruby—Jesse's sister—has had a mental breakdown after keeping Jessie and her husband apart, which happened in a previous book.
Peggy is new to the Seaside Girls. She can impersonate singers. She lives with her wicked stepmother while her father is away fighting. The stepmother has a boyfriend, and they both treat Peggy horrendously until she can earn them money. Funnily enough, she gets a big break, earning the lead in Cinderella.
Not really a brand-new saga—just rewritten!
The author did a good job of recapping here and there, but it really wasn't enough. Jessie, Frances, Ruby and Ginny have all been through so much, and I felt their stories needed telling/reading before I read this.
In September 2024, I previously read this book and reviewed it. Rereading that review, I pretty much said exactly what I said here. Copying and pasting with a side note is appropriate, I believe!
CHANGES: Ginny isn't mentioned.
Jessie—a budding West End star—was hurt during the Blitz and has to return to Cleethorpes, where she struggles to find work.
Ruby—Jesse's sister—has had a mental breakdown after keeping Jessie and her husband apart, which happened in a previous book.
Peggy is new to the Seaside Girls. She can impersonate singers. She lives with her wicked stepmother while her father is away fighting. The stepmother has a boyfriend, and they both treat Peggy horrendously until she can earn them money. Funnily enough, she gets a big break, earning the lead in Cinderella.
Not really a brand-new saga—just rewritten!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is something about the way this book is written, that just feels like home. I just finished Silver Linings for The Seaside Girls and I’m still thinking about the resilience of these characters. It’s not just a "war story"—it’s about the small moments of courage and the silver linings (literally!) that keep people going. It’s atmospheric, beautifully researched, and so, so moving. I devoured it in two sittings. Definitely one of my top picks for the year. ☕📖
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Tracy Baines and Boldwood Books📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Tracy Baines and Boldwood Books📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silver Linings for the Seaside Girls
by Tracy Baines
This is a captivating historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. The story brings to life the experiences of brave women living in a challenging time, showcasing their charm and resilience. Baines has crafted beautifully written prose that draws readers in, while the relatable characters provide a heartfelt connection to the story. Each character faces their own struggles and triumphs, making their journeys memorable and inspiring. Overall, this is a touching tale that highlights the strength of sisterhood and the silver linings that can emerge in difficult circumstances.
by Tracy Baines
This is a captivating historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. The story brings to life the experiences of brave women living in a challenging time, showcasing their charm and resilience. Baines has crafted beautifully written prose that draws readers in, while the relatable characters provide a heartfelt connection to the story. Each character faces their own struggles and triumphs, making their journeys memorable and inspiring. Overall, this is a touching tale that highlights the strength of sisterhood and the silver linings that can emerge in difficult circumstances.
July 9, 2026
This is the second in the saga and although I read the first book it took some time remembering who was who. Jessie had finally made it to the West End when a bomb hit and she ended up severely injured. She’d come home to get better but also planning a wedding. The other characters all have stories to tell which are explored as the storyline goes on.
An entertaining story of love and loss, betrayal, jealousy, and loneliness. The women are all interesting interacting with other actors and singers as they navigated life. Thanks to Tracey and her publisher.
An entertaining story of love and loss, betrayal, jealousy, and loneliness. The women are all interesting interacting with other actors and singers as they navigated life. Thanks to Tracey and her publisher.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silver Linings for the Seaside Girls by Tracy Baines is a wonderfully heartwarming historical tale that I truly enjoyed. It is beautifully written, with relatable characters who quickly drew me into their world, and it is clear that the author put a great deal of research and care into the story. Everyone did their “bit” during the war, even the children, and the novel does a lovely job of showing just how brave, resourceful, and resilient women were during such a difficult time. I especially enjoyed the way the community came together to make sure no one went without. During wartime, holding on to hope and looking for the silver linings is so important, and this story captures that message beautifully. Silver Linings for the Seaside Girls is a touching, uplifting story that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
June 22, 2026
I love a WWII story that is well researched and makes me feel as if I am there. I want the author to write characters that make me feel like I am one of them. This story did all that. Sometimes I feel guilty in loving a war story. But there is so much more to the story than that. They are emotional, struggles, friendship and pulling together. A well researched story can also teach us history. Loved this story!
September 14, 2026
Another brilliant read from Tracy. It was good to catch up with all the characters from the seaside girls series. With the men all still away at the war, the women are all pulling together as best they can. Peggy gets to be in the Christmas pantomime after all her years dreaming of being on the stage. There are lots of ups and downs in this book but one thing doesn’t change and that’s the strength these women have and the love for each other too. A great series that I highly recommend
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book five a heartwarming courageous WW2 saga.
1941 Cleethorpes.
Cafe Dansant and singer Jessie Delaney is back from London.
Supporting the seaside girls Frances Randolph and Peggy Marshall.
All three women doing their bit in the community as always a fantastic read with charms.
I love reading this series that always touches my heart.
Beautiful
1941 Cleethorpes.
Cafe Dansant and singer Jessie Delaney is back from London.
Supporting the seaside girls Frances Randolph and Peggy Marshall.
All three women doing their bit in the community as always a fantastic read with charms.
I love reading this series that always touches my heart.
Beautiful
August 11, 2026
My goodness Tracy you really do wright a gripping novel. That book had me laughing, crying and gripping to every page. I love the Seaside Girls I feel like family, I love them all.
I cannot believe the ending, I was sobbing.
I can't wait until the next book 😩 I need to know what happened, Harry cannot be dead., please!!!
I cannot believe the ending, I was sobbing.
I can't wait until the next book 😩 I need to know what happened, Harry cannot be dead., please!!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews