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The East End Girls #3
A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls
East London, 1943: As air raid sirens wail, can the East End Girls join forces to protect their city and the people they love?
Nell Reilly’s blonde curls and piercing blue eyes might look angelic, but she is ready to fight with everything she has for a better future. Brought up in London’s tough East End, she is fiercely determined to keep the promise she made to her little sister Jo to build a new life for them one day. Until a chance meeting changes everything…
Absorbed in her work with the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, the last thing Nell is looking for is love, but tall, broad-shouldered Tom Hunter stops her in her tracks. Tom is her wayward brother Frank’s new right-hand man in his black-market operations, and Nell knows from bitter experience the risks of falling for a man like that. But when she witnesses his unexpected kindness and sees how he cares for Jo, she realises that Tom has made an impression she can’t forget, no matter how hard she tries…
But Tom has a secret, one he’s finding harder and harder to keep. And when Nell finally discovers that he is an undercover police officer, she also learns something that makes her heart his cover is blown and he’s in terrible danger.
As London prepares for another night of air raids, Nell races through the blackout to find Tom and warn him. Can she reach him in time to save his life? And as bombs crash down over the East End, will their love survive to fight another day?
Fans of Katie Flynn, Rosie Goodwin and Lizzie Lane will adore this page-turning, heart-warming and emotional World War Two saga about love, friendship and finding hope in the darkest of places.
Readers are loving the East End Girls
‘Perfect… So unputdownable… Heartbreaking and touching right to the end. Loved it.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Amazing, emotional… Heart-warming. I was instantly captivated… Couldn’t put it down until the very last page… Absolutely brilliant!’ Page Turners, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘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… Worthy of more stars but 5 is all I can give. BRILLIANT.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow… Grab the tissues for this emotional rollercoaster.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I adored this… A heart-warming story that
Nell Reilly’s blonde curls and piercing blue eyes might look angelic, but she is ready to fight with everything she has for a better future. Brought up in London’s tough East End, she is fiercely determined to keep the promise she made to her little sister Jo to build a new life for them one day. Until a chance meeting changes everything…
Absorbed in her work with the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, the last thing Nell is looking for is love, but tall, broad-shouldered Tom Hunter stops her in her tracks. Tom is her wayward brother Frank’s new right-hand man in his black-market operations, and Nell knows from bitter experience the risks of falling for a man like that. But when she witnesses his unexpected kindness and sees how he cares for Jo, she realises that Tom has made an impression she can’t forget, no matter how hard she tries…
But Tom has a secret, one he’s finding harder and harder to keep. And when Nell finally discovers that he is an undercover police officer, she also learns something that makes her heart his cover is blown and he’s in terrible danger.
As London prepares for another night of air raids, Nell races through the blackout to find Tom and warn him. Can she reach him in time to save his life? And as bombs crash down over the East End, will their love survive to fight another day?
Fans of Katie Flynn, Rosie Goodwin and Lizzie Lane will adore this page-turning, heart-warming and emotional World War Two saga about love, friendship and finding hope in the darkest of places.
Readers are loving the East End Girls
‘Perfect… So unputdownable… Heartbreaking and touching right to the end. Loved it.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Amazing, emotional… Heart-warming. I was instantly captivated… Couldn’t put it down until the very last page… Absolutely brilliant!’ Page Turners, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘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… Worthy of more stars but 5 is all I can give. BRILLIANT.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow… Grab the tissues for this emotional rollercoaster.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I adored this… A heart-warming story that
- GenresFictionWorld War II
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2026
About the author
Jean Fullerton
31 books200 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 - 25 of 25 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a complimentary advanced digital copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for this opportunity.
I loved this book, it ticked all the boxes for me, history, intrigue, danger and romance, topped off with the revelation that some humans indulged in criminal activities during such terrible suffering afflicted on the general population during the second world war, however, it does add that extra dimension to the read.
I knew little of the role of the Barrage Balloons, even though I was aware of such efforts and I am grateful to be enlightened regarding the difficulties operating such large items; well described in the book when there is a storm and high winds. Brave women put themselves at risk to control and change positions of these gigantic items.
Nell Reilly is part of the 906 Balloon Command, a job that gives her the chance to escape from her family’s criminal activities and with a chance in the future to make a new life for herself and her young sister Jo. Their mother is a poor parental example who self-indulges on every level. She is very critical of Nell and not at all happy at the prospect of losing the younger daughter insisting that she should be at home looking after her.
Nell’s brother, Frank and his cohorts are involved in the black-market racket, but Frank isn’t the king pin of the operation, he answers to a very dangerous criminal, Dutch Holland who controls the East End operations.
The black market during the war was of great concern to authorities and to get information on activities they planted their operatives into the ring of crooks. One such person is Tom Hunter who comfortably immerses himself into Frank’s operation with his well-documented evidence of being a deserter and past knowledge of criminal activities in his hometown.
However, Dutch isn’t so easily convinced and puts a tail onto Tom whereby he discovers his role as an undercover police officer. Nell who has always thought that there was something different about Tom with his kindness towards her and her sister was beginning to have strong feelings towards him. When she becomes aware of his blown cover she sets about to warn him fully aware that she is about to destroy any relationship she has with her mother and brother.
I loved this book, it ticked all the boxes for me, history, intrigue, danger and romance, topped off with the revelation that some humans indulged in criminal activities during such terrible suffering afflicted on the general population during the second world war, however, it does add that extra dimension to the read.
I knew little of the role of the Barrage Balloons, even though I was aware of such efforts and I am grateful to be enlightened regarding the difficulties operating such large items; well described in the book when there is a storm and high winds. Brave women put themselves at risk to control and change positions of these gigantic items.
Nell Reilly is part of the 906 Balloon Command, a job that gives her the chance to escape from her family’s criminal activities and with a chance in the future to make a new life for herself and her young sister Jo. Their mother is a poor parental example who self-indulges on every level. She is very critical of Nell and not at all happy at the prospect of losing the younger daughter insisting that she should be at home looking after her.
Nell’s brother, Frank and his cohorts are involved in the black-market racket, but Frank isn’t the king pin of the operation, he answers to a very dangerous criminal, Dutch Holland who controls the East End operations.
The black market during the war was of great concern to authorities and to get information on activities they planted their operatives into the ring of crooks. One such person is Tom Hunter who comfortably immerses himself into Frank’s operation with his well-documented evidence of being a deserter and past knowledge of criminal activities in his hometown.
However, Dutch isn’t so easily convinced and puts a tail onto Tom whereby he discovers his role as an undercover police officer. Nell who has always thought that there was something different about Tom with his kindness towards her and her sister was beginning to have strong feelings towards him. When she becomes aware of his blown cover she sets about to warn him fully aware that she is about to destroy any relationship she has with her mother and brother.
June 4, 2026
This is the third book in the East End Girls series and it’s another great read. The story this time focuses mainly on Nell Reilly and her family. Nell has had a tough life and is determined to build a new life for herself and her sister Jo, but there an obstacles in her way that she needs to overcome. It was lovely to be back reading this series which I had grown very attached to. Nell along with her friends Effie, George and Alice are the heart of this series and I just love how they are always there for one another. If you enjoy historical saga fiction based around world war 2 and how women kept everything together then I highly recommend this book.
May 30, 2026
A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls
by Jean Fullerton.
Rating: 5 star rating
This is an emotional and comforting WWII story set in London’s East End during the hardships of wartime Britain.
The story follows Effie Weston, Alice Starling, George, and Nell as they face air raids, rationing, family struggles, heartbreak, and uncertain romances while trying to hold their community together. The friendships between the women are the heart of the book and feel very genuine and believable.
Nell, in particular, stands out because she is the character the story opens with, and she helps ground the reader in the everyday reality of East End life. She feels very much like the emotional starting point of the group, practical, family-focused, and deeply tied to her home and community. Through her, you really get a sense of the pressure ordinary women were under just trying to keep life going during wartime. Her storyline reflects the constant balancing act between duty, family needs, and personal hopes.
Alice is my personal favorite because of her grief and her struggle to allow herself happiness again. Effie is strong and dependable, while George adds warmth and humor during some of the more difficult moments. Jean Fullerton does a great job showing how ordinary women carried on through fear, loss, and uncertainty while still finding ways to support each other.
The writing is easy to read and very character-focused, with enough historical detail to make the East End setting feel real without slowing the story down. Even in the more emotional parts, there’s always a thread of hope and loyalty running through the group.
The ending gives satisfying emotional closure while still feeling realistic for wartime. If you enjoy historical fiction about strong women, friendship, family, and community during WWII, this is a very solid and engaging read.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Jean Fullerton for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
#NetGalley
#AWartimePromisefortheEastEndGirls
#Bookouture
#JeanFullerton
http://www.patriciasreadingroom.blogs...
http://goodreads.com/patriciasreading...
by Jean Fullerton.
Rating: 5 star rating
This is an emotional and comforting WWII story set in London’s East End during the hardships of wartime Britain.
The story follows Effie Weston, Alice Starling, George, and Nell as they face air raids, rationing, family struggles, heartbreak, and uncertain romances while trying to hold their community together. The friendships between the women are the heart of the book and feel very genuine and believable.
Nell, in particular, stands out because she is the character the story opens with, and she helps ground the reader in the everyday reality of East End life. She feels very much like the emotional starting point of the group, practical, family-focused, and deeply tied to her home and community. Through her, you really get a sense of the pressure ordinary women were under just trying to keep life going during wartime. Her storyline reflects the constant balancing act between duty, family needs, and personal hopes.
Alice is my personal favorite because of her grief and her struggle to allow herself happiness again. Effie is strong and dependable, while George adds warmth and humor during some of the more difficult moments. Jean Fullerton does a great job showing how ordinary women carried on through fear, loss, and uncertainty while still finding ways to support each other.
The writing is easy to read and very character-focused, with enough historical detail to make the East End setting feel real without slowing the story down. Even in the more emotional parts, there’s always a thread of hope and loyalty running through the group.
The ending gives satisfying emotional closure while still feeling realistic for wartime. If you enjoy historical fiction about strong women, friendship, family, and community during WWII, this is a very solid and engaging read.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Jean Fullerton for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
#NetGalley
#AWartimePromisefortheEastEndGirls
#Bookouture
#JeanFullerton
http://www.patriciasreadingroom.blogs...
http://goodreads.com/patriciasreading...
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Long awaited, the third book in the East End Girls Series, A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls, does not disappoint. London is still suffering badly; the girls of the 906 Balloon Command are a battling against winter conditions and Nell Reilly’s family is keeping her n more than busy.
Feisty and hard working she is determined to make a new life for herself and younger sister Jo, understanding that this War is giving so many women a chance to make a change in their lives. She is not prepared to let anything she can change or control get in her way.
Her brother Frank, a man who is as devious as he is deeply involved in the black-marketeering racket, works for one of the big men in the East End, Dutch Holland; a man who is dangerous and wealthy.
As the bombing of London continues and things become more challenging at home, Tom Hunter, a man who is a deserter, joins Frank as his right-hand man. Nell finds there is something about this big Glaswegian she finds attractive but is not going down that pathway again for anyone.
As Tom settles into his role with Frank, Nell begins to see that there’s a kindness to the man that seems at odds with his tough image and begins to wonder. But all is not well at the Wapping Docks with Lily and Maureen still skiving off, one of the crew gets seriously injured and Nell is beginning to fall in love with Tom.
When she realizes Tom is not who he appears to be, she must race against time and danger as he has been set up by none other than Frank and Dutchy. Can Nell overcome terrible odds to not only save Tom but accept that in doing so she is going to destroy what remains of her tenuous links with both Frank and her mother.
Jean Fullerton continues the East End Girls saga with panache, once again delivering a story that is gritty and alive, bringing the lives of women of that era to vibrant life.
A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls can be read as a most entertaining and enjoyable stand-alone story based in the history of the London bombings of 1943.
Feisty and hard working she is determined to make a new life for herself and younger sister Jo, understanding that this War is giving so many women a chance to make a change in their lives. She is not prepared to let anything she can change or control get in her way.
Her brother Frank, a man who is as devious as he is deeply involved in the black-marketeering racket, works for one of the big men in the East End, Dutch Holland; a man who is dangerous and wealthy.
As the bombing of London continues and things become more challenging at home, Tom Hunter, a man who is a deserter, joins Frank as his right-hand man. Nell finds there is something about this big Glaswegian she finds attractive but is not going down that pathway again for anyone.
As Tom settles into his role with Frank, Nell begins to see that there’s a kindness to the man that seems at odds with his tough image and begins to wonder. But all is not well at the Wapping Docks with Lily and Maureen still skiving off, one of the crew gets seriously injured and Nell is beginning to fall in love with Tom.
When she realizes Tom is not who he appears to be, she must race against time and danger as he has been set up by none other than Frank and Dutchy. Can Nell overcome terrible odds to not only save Tom but accept that in doing so she is going to destroy what remains of her tenuous links with both Frank and her mother.
Jean Fullerton continues the East End Girls saga with panache, once again delivering a story that is gritty and alive, bringing the lives of women of that era to vibrant life.
A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls can be read as a most entertaining and enjoyable stand-alone story based in the history of the London bombings of 1943.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When east end girl and WAAF Nell Reilly meets the army deserter Tom Hunter sparks fly, but will Nell risk the life she has tried to build for herself and her sister. And what will her family deep in blackmarket trading think of it.
I thought this series was once again great. You have the combination of a really good cast of characters, who are diverse in personality and opinion, you have a well thought out and written plot, and of course all of the emotions that the story brings with it. First of all I still really like the characters, especially the fact that they are very different from each other. I also thought that Tom and Nell had a lot of chemistry even though they aren’t together that often on page. I liked that you could see how the characters from other books were doing now a nice extra.
One thing I thought was especially well done were the relationships, just like the characters they were diverse and well thought out. For example you have the different relationships within Nell’s family and together they all make for an interesting family dynamic. Obviously I also love the sweet relationships between all the barrage balloon girls. They had really heartwarming moments at times.
The plot was well thought out and really compelling. It was a fast paced read, I finished in just over two days (reading the last 70% in the last day). It was also well written, but I did think that often they stopped in the middle of the sentences for example they would say “you are charged…” and then stop. It caused the flow to be disrupted a bit making it less smooth. Another thing I thought is that the ending was good, but it did feel slightly rushed.
Overal I really enjoyed this book once again. It was well written and definitely worth your time. Especially if you like heartwarming world war 2 stories with sweet friendships and a lot of chemistry
I thought this series was once again great. You have the combination of a really good cast of characters, who are diverse in personality and opinion, you have a well thought out and written plot, and of course all of the emotions that the story brings with it. First of all I still really like the characters, especially the fact that they are very different from each other. I also thought that Tom and Nell had a lot of chemistry even though they aren’t together that often on page. I liked that you could see how the characters from other books were doing now a nice extra.
One thing I thought was especially well done were the relationships, just like the characters they were diverse and well thought out. For example you have the different relationships within Nell’s family and together they all make for an interesting family dynamic. Obviously I also love the sweet relationships between all the barrage balloon girls. They had really heartwarming moments at times.
The plot was well thought out and really compelling. It was a fast paced read, I finished in just over two days (reading the last 70% in the last day). It was also well written, but I did think that often they stopped in the middle of the sentences for example they would say “you are charged…” and then stop. It caused the flow to be disrupted a bit making it less smooth. Another thing I thought is that the ending was good, but it did feel slightly rushed.
Overal I really enjoyed this book once again. It was well written and definitely worth your time. Especially if you like heartwarming world war 2 stories with sweet friendships and a lot of chemistry
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is another great wartime saga by Jean Fullerton which is set in February 1943, it is book three in this series, but you can easily read it as a stand-alone book.
Nell Reilly is about to go back to her billet, at the "Maid of Norfolk" public house, it has now had its roof repaired after recently being damaged in a recent bombing raid, she doesn't like leaving her sister behind at her mothers, with all her mums dodgy dealings going on, but she has no choice. She is still an aircraft woman of Balloon Command working at keeping the barrage balloons in the sky and needs to be nearby at all times. But she still has trouble with the rest of her family who are into selling knock off bits, something that Nell knows is going on but wants nothing to do with. There is another man Tom who hangs around with her brother, but she doesn't know the true background of Tom, is he the man she thinks he is?
After finding a better place for her sister Jo to stay, she thought things were looking up, but now she is not so sure! Who exactly is Tom? and what is his background?
A very enjoyable historical read which had me engaged in the storyline straight away. A great setting during WW2 London with some dodgy characters and some likeable salt of the earth characters too, but there is danger around every corner! Who will come out on top? You are find yourself rooting for Nell and Tom, but will they have a future together? A well-deserved five-star read, I have really enjoyed reading all of Jean Fullertons books and this is no exception and I truly hope there is more to come in this great series.
#Netgalley
#JeanFullerton
#AWartimePromiseForTheEastEndGirls
#Bookouture
Nell Reilly is about to go back to her billet, at the "Maid of Norfolk" public house, it has now had its roof repaired after recently being damaged in a recent bombing raid, she doesn't like leaving her sister behind at her mothers, with all her mums dodgy dealings going on, but she has no choice. She is still an aircraft woman of Balloon Command working at keeping the barrage balloons in the sky and needs to be nearby at all times. But she still has trouble with the rest of her family who are into selling knock off bits, something that Nell knows is going on but wants nothing to do with. There is another man Tom who hangs around with her brother, but she doesn't know the true background of Tom, is he the man she thinks he is?
After finding a better place for her sister Jo to stay, she thought things were looking up, but now she is not so sure! Who exactly is Tom? and what is his background?
A very enjoyable historical read which had me engaged in the storyline straight away. A great setting during WW2 London with some dodgy characters and some likeable salt of the earth characters too, but there is danger around every corner! Who will come out on top? You are find yourself rooting for Nell and Tom, but will they have a future together? A well-deserved five-star read, I have really enjoyed reading all of Jean Fullertons books and this is no exception and I truly hope there is more to come in this great series.
#Netgalley
#JeanFullerton
#AWartimePromiseForTheEastEndGirls
#Bookouture
June 2, 2026
A story of courage, secrets and second chances.
Jean Fullerton has a wonderful gift for bringing the East End to life, and this third book in the series is no exception. From the very first page, I was swept back into wartime London, where loyalties are tested and appearances can be deceiving.
Nell and Tom are at the heart of this story, and I was completely invested in their journey. For much of the novel, Nell believes Tom is cut from the same cloth as her brother and mother, making him someone she cannot trust. Watching her wrestle with those beliefs while Tom's true role slowly comes to light created plenty of tension and emotional depth. Their story is about far more than romance. It is about trust, understanding and discovering that people are not always who they seem to be.
What I particularly enjoyed was the strong sense of community that runs through the book. The East End itself feels like a character, filled with people looking out for one another despite the hardships surrounding them. Jean Fullerton captures both the struggles and resilience of ordinary families during wartime with warmth and authenticity.
The pacing is excellent, balancing emotional moments with drama, romance and historical detail. There were several scenes that tugged at my heartstrings, yet the story never loses its sense of hope. It is this combination of realism and optimism that makes the series so compelling.
A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls is a moving and satisfying addition to the series. Fans of wartime sagas will find plenty to love here, and I cannot wait to see where the story goes next.
My thanks go to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC of this book.
Jean Fullerton has a wonderful gift for bringing the East End to life, and this third book in the series is no exception. From the very first page, I was swept back into wartime London, where loyalties are tested and appearances can be deceiving.
Nell and Tom are at the heart of this story, and I was completely invested in their journey. For much of the novel, Nell believes Tom is cut from the same cloth as her brother and mother, making him someone she cannot trust. Watching her wrestle with those beliefs while Tom's true role slowly comes to light created plenty of tension and emotional depth. Their story is about far more than romance. It is about trust, understanding and discovering that people are not always who they seem to be.
What I particularly enjoyed was the strong sense of community that runs through the book. The East End itself feels like a character, filled with people looking out for one another despite the hardships surrounding them. Jean Fullerton captures both the struggles and resilience of ordinary families during wartime with warmth and authenticity.
The pacing is excellent, balancing emotional moments with drama, romance and historical detail. There were several scenes that tugged at my heartstrings, yet the story never loses its sense of hope. It is this combination of realism and optimism that makes the series so compelling.
A Wartime Promise for the East End Girls is a moving and satisfying addition to the series. Fans of wartime sagas will find plenty to love here, and I cannot wait to see where the story goes next.
My thanks go to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC of this book.
May 6, 2026
Book 3 in The East End Girls series
I really enjoy coming back to the East End girls barrage balloon squad! This 3rd story focuses on FMC Nell Reilly. I love how we dive right into the story where the previous one left off. Nell having stayed back at home for a bit while The Maid of Norway is getting repaired from book 2s events, we learn more about her family life. Her younger sister Jo is still in school, and is such a sweet girl. Nell's mother and brother Frank make their money in black market operations, and Nell does not enjoy being at home, other than to make sure Jo is getting what she needs. Before heading back to the pub, Nell gets to meet Frank's new right hand man, Tom Hunter, who Nell is immediately attracted to. Tom likewise is captivated by Nell.
The barrage balloon squad is still dealing with very cold conditions, as it is not quite spring. When they talk about how cold it is, I just can't imagine dealing with that, plus the heavy workload, they continue to amaze me! I still find it fascinating to read about them doing their work with the barrage balloon. This time we have drama within the balloon squad, with Lily and Maureen still shirking their duties. This all comes to a head when one of the girls gets injured.
Nell hits her final straw with her family, when she learns their operations have hit her directly where she works. As Nell ensures this does not happen again, and keeps having quick encounters with Tom, she continues to fall for him, and continues to be reminded about the work he is involved in. Little does Nell know, Tom is an undercover cop, and while Tom feels equally drawn to Nell, he is convinced she won't want him when he is planning to lock up her family.
As the story heats up, between Nell and Tom, as well as the danger Tom is in, Nell will make a decision that cements their relationship.
My only complaint about this one, is that Nell and Tom literally don't ever hang out with each other, but somehow fall in love. They have some interactions, and Nell is able to see Tom's character to some extent, but I felt they would have needed a little more time together to feel the way they did about each other.
I wonder how much tea these ladies actually go through, it seems like quite a lot!! I enjoyed the story, and love reading about these women, I look forward to the next one!
Thank you to Bookouture, Netgalley, and the author for a copy of this book!
I really enjoy coming back to the East End girls barrage balloon squad! This 3rd story focuses on FMC Nell Reilly. I love how we dive right into the story where the previous one left off. Nell having stayed back at home for a bit while The Maid of Norway is getting repaired from book 2s events, we learn more about her family life. Her younger sister Jo is still in school, and is such a sweet girl. Nell's mother and brother Frank make their money in black market operations, and Nell does not enjoy being at home, other than to make sure Jo is getting what she needs. Before heading back to the pub, Nell gets to meet Frank's new right hand man, Tom Hunter, who Nell is immediately attracted to. Tom likewise is captivated by Nell.
The barrage balloon squad is still dealing with very cold conditions, as it is not quite spring. When they talk about how cold it is, I just can't imagine dealing with that, plus the heavy workload, they continue to amaze me! I still find it fascinating to read about them doing their work with the barrage balloon. This time we have drama within the balloon squad, with Lily and Maureen still shirking their duties. This all comes to a head when one of the girls gets injured.
Nell hits her final straw with her family, when she learns their operations have hit her directly where she works. As Nell ensures this does not happen again, and keeps having quick encounters with Tom, she continues to fall for him, and continues to be reminded about the work he is involved in. Little does Nell know, Tom is an undercover cop, and while Tom feels equally drawn to Nell, he is convinced she won't want him when he is planning to lock up her family.
As the story heats up, between Nell and Tom, as well as the danger Tom is in, Nell will make a decision that cements their relationship.
My only complaint about this one, is that Nell and Tom literally don't ever hang out with each other, but somehow fall in love. They have some interactions, and Nell is able to see Tom's character to some extent, but I felt they would have needed a little more time together to feel the way they did about each other.
I wonder how much tea these ladies actually go through, it seems like quite a lot!! I enjoyed the story, and love reading about these women, I look forward to the next one!
Thank you to Bookouture, Netgalley, and the author for a copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is book 3 in the East End Girls series about the WAAF barrage balloon girls in WW2
This one centres around Nell, her wayward family and a dour ‘deserter’ who happens to be a Scot. Is Tom Hunter all he seems or not?
Nell joined the WAAF to get away from her family and their black market dealings - in someways she was pleased to be posted to the East End - in others it was just too close to home.
Her brother Frank and her mother Aggie are thoroughly unlikeable but her sister Jo turns to Nell for support, advice and help when Aggie insists she leaves school. Then there are the other barrage balloon girls - 8 in total plus Effie now a mother herself. The Corporal Lily obviously has a lot to hide and eventually gets her just desserts but her friend Maureen seems to not be affected by the turn of events - maybe she was as naive and gullible as she seemed and was bullied into supporting Lily.
There is so much more I could say - and completely spoil the book for others. So I won’t. Safe to say that Jean Fullerton has obviously done a lot of research and has written this book with knowledge and empathy.
This was definitely a book that I wanted to read - and I did read it quickly as I needed to know the outcome.
It seems that we find out more about Georgie in the next episode- which I can’t wait for.
Sometimes series fall flat after a couple of books but that certainly isn’t the case with this one.
This one centres around Nell, her wayward family and a dour ‘deserter’ who happens to be a Scot. Is Tom Hunter all he seems or not?
Nell joined the WAAF to get away from her family and their black market dealings - in someways she was pleased to be posted to the East End - in others it was just too close to home.
Her brother Frank and her mother Aggie are thoroughly unlikeable but her sister Jo turns to Nell for support, advice and help when Aggie insists she leaves school. Then there are the other barrage balloon girls - 8 in total plus Effie now a mother herself. The Corporal Lily obviously has a lot to hide and eventually gets her just desserts but her friend Maureen seems to not be affected by the turn of events - maybe she was as naive and gullible as she seemed and was bullied into supporting Lily.
There is so much more I could say - and completely spoil the book for others. So I won’t. Safe to say that Jean Fullerton has obviously done a lot of research and has written this book with knowledge and empathy.
This was definitely a book that I wanted to read - and I did read it quickly as I needed to know the outcome.
It seems that we find out more about Georgie in the next episode- which I can’t wait for.
Sometimes series fall flat after a couple of books but that certainly isn’t the case with this one.
May 30, 2026
📆 single timeline.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
💬 "What do you do when you know in your heart that the right man for you is also absolutely the wrong man?"
This is the third book in The East End Girls series, and this one centres mainly around Nell and her determination to do the right thing, despite her criminal family. Although this book is mainly about the WAAF "girls", there was also some tense drama with the men which had me hooked.
Fullerton writes with an easy to read style which makes you feel fully invested with the characters. The crushes the girls have on the men, and the fallings out that result are similar to those of my 90s teenage years, only my friends and I weren't living through the blitz as well. One thing that
really struck me whilst reading this, despite the fact I already knew about it, was how hard the women were working. Long shifts day and night, regardless of the weather and how tired they were. Whereas I had an afternoon nap today as I had a heat induced headache. What luxury!
I believe there is one more book to come in this series, and I can't wait to find out how it all ends for our lovely East End Girls.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
💬 "What do you do when you know in your heart that the right man for you is also absolutely the wrong man?"
This is the third book in The East End Girls series, and this one centres mainly around Nell and her determination to do the right thing, despite her criminal family. Although this book is mainly about the WAAF "girls", there was also some tense drama with the men which had me hooked.
Fullerton writes with an easy to read style which makes you feel fully invested with the characters. The crushes the girls have on the men, and the fallings out that result are similar to those of my 90s teenage years, only my friends and I weren't living through the blitz as well. One thing that
really struck me whilst reading this, despite the fact I already knew about it, was how hard the women were working. Long shifts day and night, regardless of the weather and how tired they were. Whereas I had an afternoon nap today as I had a heat induced headache. What luxury!
I believe there is one more book to come in this series, and I can't wait to find out how it all ends for our lovely East End Girls.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I grabbed this book because it was WW2 Historical fiction. I wanted to experience and understand the struggles of the Barrage Balloon girls. I wanted to stand in the downpours. I wanted to feel the bombs. I wanted to experience the challenges of raising and lowering the balloon. I wanted to see how girls from different walks of life could work together to help save London. I got all of that, but I got so much more.
The girls are stationed in a rough area of London where not everything is on the up and up. The Black Market is a lucrative business. The corruption had me on the edge of my seat fearing for the innocents. The lack of concern for victims had me in tears. The suspense filled my hours. A cop undercover told a tale that I didn't know could occur until I could resist deep diving into the history the story touches on. The story is filled with lots of action. If you like a story where women can be heroes you won't want to miss this story.
The girls are stationed in a rough area of London where not everything is on the up and up. The Black Market is a lucrative business. The corruption had me on the edge of my seat fearing for the innocents. The lack of concern for victims had me in tears. The suspense filled my hours. A cop undercover told a tale that I didn't know could occur until I could resist deep diving into the history the story touches on. The story is filled with lots of action. If you like a story where women can be heroes you won't want to miss this story.
June 1, 2026
I have been following the Barrage Balloon girls from the beginning. This time it is Nell’s turn to shine!
Nell and her sister Jo escaped London’s East End. Nell has no time for love—especially not for Tom Hunter, a man connected to her mother and brother’s black-market dealings. She starts to fall for Tom, but surprise- he’s an undercover cop trying to put her family in jail.
This story jumped in where the other one ended. Jean Fullerton once again did extensive research about the time period. This was a definite page turner and I love all of the Balloon girls. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#AWartimePromiseForTheEastEndGirls #JeanFullertonBookTour #NetGalley #Bookouture #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BookLove #Bookstagram #BooksSetDuringWWII
Nell and her sister Jo escaped London’s East End. Nell has no time for love—especially not for Tom Hunter, a man connected to her mother and brother’s black-market dealings. She starts to fall for Tom, but surprise- he’s an undercover cop trying to put her family in jail.
This story jumped in where the other one ended. Jean Fullerton once again did extensive research about the time period. This was a definite page turner and I love all of the Balloon girls. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#AWartimePromiseForTheEastEndGirls #JeanFullertonBookTour #NetGalley #Bookouture #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BookLove #Bookstagram #BooksSetDuringWWII
June 1, 2026
I love the Balloon Girls. I have been itching for Nell’s story since the beginning of this series. Nell didn’t have the best upbringing, but she was determined not to continue the cycle. She didn’t want to end up like her mother, or living a life with a dodgy husband who could be in and out of jail. She wanted more for herself and more for her sister Jo. Being a part of the balloon girls was her escape from that life. I love Nell’s determination and strength, and her love for her sister. I love that Jean writes her as so much more than a Balloon Girl. Jean does such a great job bringing all the girls to life.
This story is primarily Nell and Tom’s love story. We get the background of Nell’s family’s crime life when Tom infiltrates their organization. The last thing Nell wants is to fall for Tom because she sees him as just like her brother and ex.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
This story is primarily Nell and Tom’s love story. We get the background of Nell’s family’s crime life when Tom infiltrates their organization. The last thing Nell wants is to fall for Tom because she sees him as just like her brother and ex.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
As a huge fan of the book series "Call the Midwife," I really enjoyed the East End spin to this WWII story. The book is written from the perspective of women who are not only working hard to do their part in helping with the war, but also facing the additional hurdles that their family circumstances add to this time. The internal struggle Nell faces as she begins to have feelings for someone she thinks is the "bad guy," even as her goal is to create a better life for herself and her sister, adds complexity to the story. The found-family component of the book was a troupe I really enjoyed. The ending is also a pleasant surprise, with a flip in gender roles that resolves all the issues Nell has been fighting with throughout the story. A woman-centered story, that demonstrates the power of friendship, the beneficial role of found family, and a love story all rolled into one. I'm hopeful that there will be a book four.
March 4, 2026
The first few in this series have been absolutely fab and I couldn’t wait to get stuck into the latest instalment. If you haven’t read the others, you can go into this one as it’s almost a standalone but with the odd name drop and reference but you’ll be able to jump into this series whenever.
It was super entertaining and a really well crafted story that will keep you motivated to read more. Our balloons girls are an easy follow, they’re easy to root for and no more than Nell, who despite her ‘dodgy’ upbringing, is determined to make a clean break for herself and her sister Jo. Another really enjoyable edition to the series!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
It was super entertaining and a really well crafted story that will keep you motivated to read more. Our balloons girls are an easy follow, they’re easy to root for and no more than Nell, who despite her ‘dodgy’ upbringing, is determined to make a clean break for herself and her sister Jo. Another really enjoyable edition to the series!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
June 3, 2026
Nell and her younger sister Jo have little in common with the rest of their family, and Nell longs to keep Jo safe. When a stranger takes an interest in them, Nell has to fight her feelings because he threatens to drag her back into the world she hates. Tom is not what he seems, but his job is important and puts him and those who care for him in danger. I enjoyed this emotional and suspenseful story in what is proving to be an addictive historical series. It has an evocative WW2 East End setting and an authentic, relatable cast of characters. There's betrayal, mystery, romance and secrets in the close-knit community, and the ever-present danger of enemy bombing. It's immersive, intense and intriguing wartime historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
East end London 1943
WAAF Nell Reilly is keeping her promise to her sister Jo, after the war to give her a better life, away from her brother Frank who's always up to no good, and their gin drinking mother Aggie who has no time for her daughters, the war is taking up all her time working at tge Barrage balloon squad in Wapping.
With Tom Hunter getting friendly with her brother finds out he's under cover police poking his nose in.
This WW2 historical saga is book three in the series, and it certainly is a beautiful heartfelt moving story.
To be enjoyed by readers right to the end.
Keeping that wartime promise.
WAAF Nell Reilly is keeping her promise to her sister Jo, after the war to give her a better life, away from her brother Frank who's always up to no good, and their gin drinking mother Aggie who has no time for her daughters, the war is taking up all her time working at tge Barrage balloon squad in Wapping.
With Tom Hunter getting friendly with her brother finds out he's under cover police poking his nose in.
This WW2 historical saga is book three in the series, and it certainly is a beautiful heartfelt moving story.
To be enjoyed by readers right to the end.
Keeping that wartime promise.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have been a long time fan of the BBC tv show Call the Midwife, and the Second World War is a period I can't enough of, so when I came across this book, it immediately felt like the perfect combination of two things I love.
The story follows Nell as she joins the Women's Auxiliary Air Force in wartime East End London. What I appreciated most is how well the book balances tension with warmth. There is real suspense, but it doesn't overshadow the friendships and complex family dynamics that give the story its heart. I found myself completely drawn into Nell's world and genuinely did not want to put it down.
It is also worth noting that while this is part of a series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. I had no prior knowledge of the other books and never once felt like I was missing something, so there is no reason to hesitate if you are picking it up for the first time. I can't wait to pick up the previous parts!
For anyone who enjoys stories about women finding their footing in extraordinary circumstances, with community, friendship, and the shadow of war woven throughout, this is a really satisfying read. Sometimes a book that transports you completely to another time and place is exactly what you need, and this one delivered that for me.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader copy!
The story follows Nell as she joins the Women's Auxiliary Air Force in wartime East End London. What I appreciated most is how well the book balances tension with warmth. There is real suspense, but it doesn't overshadow the friendships and complex family dynamics that give the story its heart. I found myself completely drawn into Nell's world and genuinely did not want to put it down.
It is also worth noting that while this is part of a series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. I had no prior knowledge of the other books and never once felt like I was missing something, so there is no reason to hesitate if you are picking it up for the first time. I can't wait to pick up the previous parts!
For anyone who enjoys stories about women finding their footing in extraordinary circumstances, with community, friendship, and the shadow of war woven throughout, this is a really satisfying read. Sometimes a book that transports you completely to another time and place is exactly what you need, and this one delivered that for me.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved book 3 in the series it was a real heartwarming read. It’s so easy to connect to the storyline and characters. Diving into to a new book is like catching up with old friends. I find the balloon aspect of the story fascinating as I had no idea women had the responsibility for these in the war. I feel this story gives a pretty good picture of how life was during those very hard times. Highly recommend this book, and the rest of the series, it’s a really good read. Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC in return for my review.
Publication date 29 May 2026
Publication date 29 May 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
More than just a romance, this book is packed with adventure, danger, crime gangs and so much more! The seedier side of wartime London and Nell's really awful family provide the backdrop to this latest saga involving the girls working in all weathers to protect the East End as members of the barrage balloon squad. But this is really Nell and undercover cop Tom's story as they feel an instant attraction but fate tries hard to keep them apart. I like the loyalty and friendship between the girls as they work and live together. More to come? I expect so.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another episode of the Barrage balloon girls and this storyline focuses on Nell and her family. War continues so the WAAF’s are busy as ever. A young supposed military man is AWOL and joins Nell’s brother Frank in London’s East End gangs. Lots of Nell’s life working but also her love life entwined in the storyline. Love the characters and it felt like catching up with old friends. Also best to read the books in order. Thanks to Jean and her publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this latest from Jean. It was chock full of great characters and I especially enjoyed reading about the girls and the barrage balloons. They certainly had to be strong to pull those things around. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love wartime books and have loved this series with the women working with the ballonships. They deal with some dark characters in the East End on the black market . The characters are so interesting, families and work relationships
May 29, 2026
This story takes place during WWII in the East End of London. It's the third in the series, and it focuses on Nell Reilly, who has promised her sister Jo a better life. Their mom and brother are criminals, while Nell works with the Women's Auxiliary Air Force and tries to make a better life for herself and her sister, Jo. When she meets her brother's new sidekick, sparks fly.
I liked Nell and learning more about her family. I would've loved to see more of her and Tom together, but I enjoyed their relationship. There were some twists and turns, the seedy side of the East End of London during WWII. a bit of romance, life on the barrage balloon squad, and the friendship between the girls.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story in the series and I'm looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Thanks @netgalley, @bookouture, and the author for this arc.
I liked Nell and learning more about her family. I would've loved to see more of her and Tom together, but I enjoyed their relationship. There were some twists and turns, the seedy side of the East End of London during WWII. a bit of romance, life on the barrage balloon squad, and the friendship between the girls.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story in the series and I'm looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Thanks @netgalley, @bookouture, and the author for this arc.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having followed The East End Girls series from the beginning, I was excited to see Nell Reilly take centre stage in this instalment. What kept me turning the pages was the combination of wartime danger and emotional tension as Nell, a young woman serving with the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, finds herself drawn to the very man connected to her brother’s black-market dealings. Filled with secrets, undercover police operations, air raids, and the constant possibility of heartbreak, this was a story I found incredibly difficult to put down.
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