What do you think?
Rate this book
The Society of Literary Marauders
At Oxford University, 1928, four young women make a secret 'I hereby undertake to take and read any book kept away from nice young ladies.'
They've come from unlikely corners of the British brickworker's daughter Annie, wealthy flapper Ridley, refined Parsi aristocrat Dorelia and disheartened schoolteacher Norma. They call themselves the Society of Literary Marauders and the price of entry is having stolen a book.
Their illicit meetings rapidly become a lifeline in a world where knowledge is power, and women are fed lies and half-truths. They start with small misdemeanours – getting their hands on banned books, stealing back historical records claimed by the men's colleges. But over time, they become aware of a true literary injustice – and they slowly formulate a plan to put this historical wrong to right...
They've come from unlikely corners of the British brickworker's daughter Annie, wealthy flapper Ridley, refined Parsi aristocrat Dorelia and disheartened schoolteacher Norma. They call themselves the Society of Literary Marauders and the price of entry is having stolen a book.
Their illicit meetings rapidly become a lifeline in a world where knowledge is power, and women are fed lies and half-truths. They start with small misdemeanours – getting their hands on banned books, stealing back historical records claimed by the men's colleges. But over time, they become aware of a true literary injustice – and they slowly formulate a plan to put this historical wrong to right...
Audible Audio
Published April 1, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 27, 2026
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
The Society of Literary Marauders by Sasha Wasley is a delightful literary drama, it’s a smart and inspiring read that explores the joy of rebellion.
It’s the year 1928 and young Annie Trew who comes from a working class family is about to pursue the opportunity of attending Somerville College in Oxford where only a small number of female students attend.
Annie quickly makes friends there and the four women bond over a shared pledge to read banned books for ‘nice young ladies’ and form a secret club they name The Society of Literary Marauders and boy do they get into a lot of mischief, including a plan to put a literary injustice right.
I loved the friendships and camaraderie between the four diverse women and how the story highlighted how it was for the women in this male dominated educational setting along with race and class discrimination. What an immersive, fun and heartfelt tale of friendship, love and adventure. I also enjoyed the late night hot cocoa party sessions with marshmallows, delicious! ☕️
If you love stories that are bookish and have strong female friendships and are about courage and standing up for what you believe in this will resonate with you.
Publication Date 31 March 2026
Publisher Pantera Press
Thank you so much Pantera Press for a copy of the book.
The Society of Literary Marauders by Sasha Wasley is a delightful literary drama, it’s a smart and inspiring read that explores the joy of rebellion.
It’s the year 1928 and young Annie Trew who comes from a working class family is about to pursue the opportunity of attending Somerville College in Oxford where only a small number of female students attend.
Annie quickly makes friends there and the four women bond over a shared pledge to read banned books for ‘nice young ladies’ and form a secret club they name The Society of Literary Marauders and boy do they get into a lot of mischief, including a plan to put a literary injustice right.
I loved the friendships and camaraderie between the four diverse women and how the story highlighted how it was for the women in this male dominated educational setting along with race and class discrimination. What an immersive, fun and heartfelt tale of friendship, love and adventure. I also enjoyed the late night hot cocoa party sessions with marshmallows, delicious! ☕️
If you love stories that are bookish and have strong female friendships and are about courage and standing up for what you believe in this will resonate with you.
Publication Date 31 March 2026
Publisher Pantera Press
Thank you so much Pantera Press for a copy of the book.
April 19, 2026
Sasha Wasley’s brand new novel The Society of Literary Marauders is a fabulous historical fiction read set at Oxford University. It was a five star read that I binged over the weekend.
Set in 1928, Annie Trew, an Aussie brickworker’s daughter is awarded a coveted place at Somerville College, Oxford, with a small number of other female students. On board the ship to England, she meets the wealthy and fun-loving Ridley and despite their differences the pair strike up a friendship. Completing their foursome at the college are Parsi aristocrat Dorelia and disheartened Northern schoolteacher Norma. Following a discussion about stealing books, they form a secret group, The Society of Literary Marauders, where the price of entry is having taken a book that doesn’t belong to them. At each meeting, they read a contentious or banned book and what follows is their realisation that knowledge is power and is often withheld from those who are not men of the upper classes. Seeking to take back control and right injustices, the four formulate a risky plan that could see them all kicked out of this academic world for good.
The Society of Literary Marauders was a powerful story of female friendship and striving for your dreams despite challenges and hardship. The historical detail woven throughout the narrative was so intriguing and I loved experiencing the Oxford life through these characters’ eyes. The vast chasm between male and female education and resources at the university in 1928 was very obvious and Sasha has done a wonderful job of highlighting the classism and sexism experienced by women in this setting.
There were some excellent political discussions sprinkled throughout between Annie and some of the upper class characters and it was wonderful to see how true to herself and her beliefs she was. Annie never backed down in the face of dismissal or belittling from these people who seemed to think they knew so much more than a working class woman from the colonies. I was cheering Annie on throughout each of these interactions as the rhetoric became more and more infuriating.
This was a book that I fell in love with for both the characters and the story. The absolute highlight was the friendships between this tight knit circle of women and their support and loyalty towards one another. It was so heartening and beautiful to read.
The story was so full of emotion, it had me laughing and crying and I really didn’t want it to end. When I turned that final page I felt such loss at having to let these characters go, but my heart was also full from this fabulous story.
I alternated reading the physical book with listening to the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Eleanor Howell. The distinct accents and intonations made the audio experience so enjoyable, I definitely recommend it.
Set in 1928, Annie Trew, an Aussie brickworker’s daughter is awarded a coveted place at Somerville College, Oxford, with a small number of other female students. On board the ship to England, she meets the wealthy and fun-loving Ridley and despite their differences the pair strike up a friendship. Completing their foursome at the college are Parsi aristocrat Dorelia and disheartened Northern schoolteacher Norma. Following a discussion about stealing books, they form a secret group, The Society of Literary Marauders, where the price of entry is having taken a book that doesn’t belong to them. At each meeting, they read a contentious or banned book and what follows is their realisation that knowledge is power and is often withheld from those who are not men of the upper classes. Seeking to take back control and right injustices, the four formulate a risky plan that could see them all kicked out of this academic world for good.
The Society of Literary Marauders was a powerful story of female friendship and striving for your dreams despite challenges and hardship. The historical detail woven throughout the narrative was so intriguing and I loved experiencing the Oxford life through these characters’ eyes. The vast chasm between male and female education and resources at the university in 1928 was very obvious and Sasha has done a wonderful job of highlighting the classism and sexism experienced by women in this setting.
There were some excellent political discussions sprinkled throughout between Annie and some of the upper class characters and it was wonderful to see how true to herself and her beliefs she was. Annie never backed down in the face of dismissal or belittling from these people who seemed to think they knew so much more than a working class woman from the colonies. I was cheering Annie on throughout each of these interactions as the rhetoric became more and more infuriating.
This was a book that I fell in love with for both the characters and the story. The absolute highlight was the friendships between this tight knit circle of women and their support and loyalty towards one another. It was so heartening and beautiful to read.
The story was so full of emotion, it had me laughing and crying and I really didn’t want it to end. When I turned that final page I felt such loss at having to let these characters go, but my heart was also full from this fabulous story.
I alternated reading the physical book with listening to the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Eleanor Howell. The distinct accents and intonations made the audio experience so enjoyable, I definitely recommend it.
June 5, 2026
What a fun historical novel, I laughed out loud a few times!
May 3, 2026
look idk how to feel. at first glance, i was intrigued. but, the story itself (the plot, characters etc) didn’t do what i think wasley wanted it to do. i was expecting more mystery and more suspense. the romance was quite sweet and i liked that side of the novel but overall was slightly disappointed :(
May 22, 2026
What a great story - well written with Australian and world history, political and social themes, romance, friendship and comradeship all in one. Thoroughly enjoyable.
April 18, 2026
Four women. One secret society. A rule-breaking love of books…
and I knew instantly this was my kind of story. There’s something irresistible about women defying expectations—especially when it comes to forbidden books—and this one pulled me in from the very first page. Honestly, I would have joined them without hesitation.
Read my full review over on
https://hundredacreofbooks.com/index....
April 19, 2026
Such an enjoyable story! Four very different girls meet at Oxford University in 1928 and form a society where they steal banned and salacious books. Through their reading and experiences, they become fast friends despite their differences and learn where to place boundary lines so that others won't take advantage of them.
July 22, 2026
This book surprised me in all the best ways. Charming and warming and just delightful. And a creative but poignant end that I didn't see coming.
May 18, 2026
Another brilliant book by one of our own Australian Authors!
I had the absolute pleasure of seeing Sasha Wasley at her book launch event at Mitcham Library and it was such a fantastic night hearing all about The Society of Literary Marauders. At that point in time, I had read perhaps a third of the book and I was so heavily involved and invested with the characters and the storyline of this incredible read.
I was immediately drawn in by the premise of this book. Four ladies in the 1920's at Oxford University are thrown together even though they are all from vastly different backgrounds. They form The Society of Literary Marauders, where the condition of entry is having stolen a book. Amidst a time where Education is a male dominated world, they then take it upon themselves to read books that are deemed not suitable for ladies.
I loved this book - I found the friendship and camaraderie found between Annie, Ridley, Dorelia and Norma so heartwarming and wholesome. They may have had different opinions on various topics, but when needed, they all banded together to support each other when in need.
Wasley has written such a fantastic historical novel which encapsulates so many topics including politics, societal issues and the immense differences between the education of males and females at that point in time. Amongst all this though, there was a lot fun, mischief and all around shenanigans and maybe even a bit of romance...
I had the absolute pleasure of seeing Sasha Wasley at her book launch event at Mitcham Library and it was such a fantastic night hearing all about The Society of Literary Marauders. At that point in time, I had read perhaps a third of the book and I was so heavily involved and invested with the characters and the storyline of this incredible read.
I was immediately drawn in by the premise of this book. Four ladies in the 1920's at Oxford University are thrown together even though they are all from vastly different backgrounds. They form The Society of Literary Marauders, where the condition of entry is having stolen a book. Amidst a time where Education is a male dominated world, they then take it upon themselves to read books that are deemed not suitable for ladies.
I loved this book - I found the friendship and camaraderie found between Annie, Ridley, Dorelia and Norma so heartwarming and wholesome. They may have had different opinions on various topics, but when needed, they all banded together to support each other when in need.
Wasley has written such a fantastic historical novel which encapsulates so many topics including politics, societal issues and the immense differences between the education of males and females at that point in time. Amongst all this though, there was a lot fun, mischief and all around shenanigans and maybe even a bit of romance...
May 26, 2026
This book, like so many modern historical novels, fails the authenticity test. It is extraordinarily convenient how characters from 100 years ago have modern morals and similar left wing political views to many of the book's likely readers. While some people of the time would have differed from the norm, to have so many neatly clustered together is rather stretching the bounds of credibility.
That said lively pranks and adventures would have occurred, so it is a little sad that the author's imagination limited her to more modern behaviour.
That said lively pranks and adventures would have occurred, so it is a little sad that the author's imagination limited her to more modern behaviour.
April 6, 2026
An outwardly fun and frothy read with surprising bite.
I started this thinking I might not be its target reader (if there is such a thing?) and ended it admitting Wasley has done a ripper job of both entertaining me and giving me ideas to chew on.
There are many, many things to love about this novel from that luscious cover to the notes provided at the end but what I admired most was how we witness the changes in thinking of our quatuor of young(ish) ladies recently admitted to Somerville College, Oxford—the uncertainty that develops into confidence, the adjusting of their views as they come up against new attitudes and information about each other and the society they moved in previously and move in now.
Wasley knows how to engage our feelings, has us rooting for the underdogs, eager for justice to be served and for love to win out. It's friendship that is the heart of this novel, a fiercely dogged friendship which allows our four girls more than survive the many obstacles the Oxford universe throws at them.
As a peek into what it might have been like as a young woman in a social setting designed for the furthering of the privileged males, and newly adapting (poor men) to the inclusion of the female sex within their hallowed halls, Wasley has done her research. From the curfews, restrictions and 'policing' of appearances, to the cocoa evenings, unauthorised outings and subsequent fines, the set up was perfection for a bunch of rebellious young women to involve themselves in acquiring banned books and the (ahem) re-appropriation of items fallen into the wrong, or unworthy(?) hands.
I loved all our four main characters. I loved Annie's working class worrying, her spunk and her frank admission that as an Australian she feels her cultural heritage is in Britain, that Australia's cultural heritage, being indigenous, was not hers which is ever a topic of contention. I also liked very much how the author feeds us the background stories of all four young women at different rates giving us an insight into tight-lipped Norma quite late in the sequence of events whereas we have Ridley (the flapper) firmly squared from early on.
All in all, a cracker of a read that allowed a deeper look at at racial inequality, at class divide and how that affects access to education (among other things) and to certain strata of society, at eugenics, at the theft of artefacts from colonial outposts, at the equality of the sexes, at belonging.
For all its frivolous outfits, this is a novel with backbone.
I started this thinking I might not be its target reader (if there is such a thing?) and ended it admitting Wasley has done a ripper job of both entertaining me and giving me ideas to chew on.
There are many, many things to love about this novel from that luscious cover to the notes provided at the end but what I admired most was how we witness the changes in thinking of our quatuor of young(ish) ladies recently admitted to Somerville College, Oxford—the uncertainty that develops into confidence, the adjusting of their views as they come up against new attitudes and information about each other and the society they moved in previously and move in now.
Wasley knows how to engage our feelings, has us rooting for the underdogs, eager for justice to be served and for love to win out. It's friendship that is the heart of this novel, a fiercely dogged friendship which allows our four girls more than survive the many obstacles the Oxford universe throws at them.
As a peek into what it might have been like as a young woman in a social setting designed for the furthering of the privileged males, and newly adapting (poor men) to the inclusion of the female sex within their hallowed halls, Wasley has done her research. From the curfews, restrictions and 'policing' of appearances, to the cocoa evenings, unauthorised outings and subsequent fines, the set up was perfection for a bunch of rebellious young women to involve themselves in acquiring banned books and the (ahem) re-appropriation of items fallen into the wrong, or unworthy(?) hands.
I loved all our four main characters. I loved Annie's working class worrying, her spunk and her frank admission that as an Australian she feels her cultural heritage is in Britain, that Australia's cultural heritage, being indigenous, was not hers which is ever a topic of contention. I also liked very much how the author feeds us the background stories of all four young women at different rates giving us an insight into tight-lipped Norma quite late in the sequence of events whereas we have Ridley (the flapper) firmly squared from early on.
All in all, a cracker of a read that allowed a deeper look at at racial inequality, at class divide and how that affects access to education (among other things) and to certain strata of society, at eugenics, at the theft of artefacts from colonial outposts, at the equality of the sexes, at belonging.
For all its frivolous outfits, this is a novel with backbone.
July 19, 2026
As quite a few readers have commented,this is a very well written book but slightly long winded.
Told from Ann's point of view who would have been called woke in our age with definite communist leanings with three fairly under developed female friends making up a story that takes place at Oxford.
I am leaving out the sexism, Eugenics,the unacceptance of gays and so much more ,to concentrate on the constant and obvious dislike of Britain that the author seems to have.
I think most white Australians are aware that we havent always got it right. We are constantly told this.
Ann seemed to me to be to "advanced" in her thinking.
My grandparents were of her age and they described just putting food on the table being a big enough struggle, so I doubt the average Aussie of that time really gave much thought to.the plight of our Aboriginals..or for that matter much of anything else that Ann struggled with and worried about.
The characters were certainly diverse..we had the rich privileged white girl ,the struggling woke white girl,the Indian girl oppressed by British rule and a girl who may or may not have been gay.All gathering breathlessly to discuss the various topics from the books they had marauded.
I am sorry..the whole book,while excellently written,dragged. I found Ann annoying with her attitudes and some of the characters quite unbelievable..Lady Susan being the main bug bear.
I enjoyed the actual phrasing of the book,the romance was as you would expect but I found the anti British lecturing tiring.
The two stars are for the writing.
Told from Ann's point of view who would have been called woke in our age with definite communist leanings with three fairly under developed female friends making up a story that takes place at Oxford.
I am leaving out the sexism, Eugenics,the unacceptance of gays and so much more ,to concentrate on the constant and obvious dislike of Britain that the author seems to have.
I think most white Australians are aware that we havent always got it right. We are constantly told this.
Ann seemed to me to be to "advanced" in her thinking.
My grandparents were of her age and they described just putting food on the table being a big enough struggle, so I doubt the average Aussie of that time really gave much thought to.the plight of our Aboriginals..or for that matter much of anything else that Ann struggled with and worried about.
The characters were certainly diverse..we had the rich privileged white girl ,the struggling woke white girl,the Indian girl oppressed by British rule and a girl who may or may not have been gay.All gathering breathlessly to discuss the various topics from the books they had marauded.
I am sorry..the whole book,while excellently written,dragged. I found Ann annoying with her attitudes and some of the characters quite unbelievable..Lady Susan being the main bug bear.
I enjoyed the actual phrasing of the book,the romance was as you would expect but I found the anti British lecturing tiring.
The two stars are for the writing.
June 3, 2026
An interesting look at life for women in the 1920s, especially relating to learning.
Four young women from various backgrounds were attending Oxford University for different reasons and struggling with the harsh rules they had to follow - and having to pay "fines" for what we would consider trivial and unfair misdemeanours. The differences between classes, rich and poor, genders and nationalities were clearly depicted as well as their impacts on the four women.
At Oxford University, 1928, four young women make a secret I hereby undertake to take and read any book kept away from nice young ladies. They’ve come from unlikely corners of the British brickworker’s daughter Annie, wealthy flapper Ridley, refined Parsi aristocrat Dorelia and disheartened schoolteacher Norma. They call themselves the Society of Literary Marauders and the price of entry is having stolen a book. Their illicit meetings rapidly become a lifeline in a world where knowledge is power, and women are fed lies and half-truths. They start with small misdemeanours – getting their hands on banned books, stealing back historical records claimed by the men’s colleges. But over time, they become aware of a true literary injustice – and they slowly formulate a plan to put this historical wrong to right … Full of intrigue, literary drama and the joy of rebellious female friendships, this stunning novel is an unputdownable joy from first page to last. (less)
Four young women from various backgrounds were attending Oxford University for different reasons and struggling with the harsh rules they had to follow - and having to pay "fines" for what we would consider trivial and unfair misdemeanours. The differences between classes, rich and poor, genders and nationalities were clearly depicted as well as their impacts on the four women.
At Oxford University, 1928, four young women make a secret I hereby undertake to take and read any book kept away from nice young ladies. They’ve come from unlikely corners of the British brickworker’s daughter Annie, wealthy flapper Ridley, refined Parsi aristocrat Dorelia and disheartened schoolteacher Norma. They call themselves the Society of Literary Marauders and the price of entry is having stolen a book. Their illicit meetings rapidly become a lifeline in a world where knowledge is power, and women are fed lies and half-truths. They start with small misdemeanours – getting their hands on banned books, stealing back historical records claimed by the men’s colleges. But over time, they become aware of a true literary injustice – and they slowly formulate a plan to put this historical wrong to right … Full of intrigue, literary drama and the joy of rebellious female friendships, this stunning novel is an unputdownable joy from first page to last. (less)
May 3, 2026
This was absolutely delightful! I really love being back in this period of time, there’s just something about it.
Set in the 1920’s, Annie leaves Australia and heads off to study at Oxford University, an amazing opportunity and from the moment she leaves you know this is going to be great.
Together, Annie, Ridley, Dorelia and Nora create The Society of Literary Marauders, where they read books “nice young ladies shouldn’t be reading”. They read a range of books but geez, did they get up to a whole lot of mischief as well! This group of friends was unstoppable.
Annie was the best! She wrote about things she shouldn’t, she spoke up, she did things she shouldn’t and stood up for herself. She was my favourite and Ridley was a lot of fun too!
This book was brilliant in so many ways! There was romance, literary drama, acts of rebellion, close friendships, lots of mischief and fun plus a lot more!
But Sasha also did a wonderful job highlighting what it was like in this male dominated education setting and the many levels of discrimination, from race to class, the rich versus the poor as well as sexism.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend!
Set in the 1920’s, Annie leaves Australia and heads off to study at Oxford University, an amazing opportunity and from the moment she leaves you know this is going to be great.
Together, Annie, Ridley, Dorelia and Nora create The Society of Literary Marauders, where they read books “nice young ladies shouldn’t be reading”. They read a range of books but geez, did they get up to a whole lot of mischief as well! This group of friends was unstoppable.
Annie was the best! She wrote about things she shouldn’t, she spoke up, she did things she shouldn’t and stood up for herself. She was my favourite and Ridley was a lot of fun too!
This book was brilliant in so many ways! There was romance, literary drama, acts of rebellion, close friendships, lots of mischief and fun plus a lot more!
But Sasha also did a wonderful job highlighting what it was like in this male dominated education setting and the many levels of discrimination, from race to class, the rich versus the poor as well as sexism.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend!
June 29, 2026
Oxford University, 1928.
And we meet four women bonded by their mutual love of banned books and disdain for the stifling rules placed upon them by the patriarchy.
Our FMC is working class Annie Trew, hater of captured animals and moderate fan of communism.
With her newfound friends they meet to read banned books, steal back what doesn’t belong to others and wreak havoc on their first University term.
I’m much more of a literary hoarder than a literary marauder but I loved this as historical fiction.
I loved learning about life at Oxford, I loved their sightseeing of London and I loved an FMC with zero filter and no ability to stand down from a verbal sparring session.
There was a long of bang for buck here; plot++
Literary musings and bountiful reflections on colonisation, feminism, race, political philosophies and social standing.
It was an interesting read on a slice of history that will have you reflecting on how much has changed jn 100 years.
For fans of historical fiction with strong female leads.
Thank you to Sasha Wasley and the team at Pantera press for sending me this gorgeous book box in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2026
I swung wildly on the pendulum when it came to this book. Based on the title and blurb, I expected the story to revolve more around the members of the club, the banned books and the literary injustice, but it felt like they took a back seat at times compared to Annie's university and relationship issues.
I really liked the cast of characters, how diverse they were in a multitude of ways and how many of them reflected on their circumstances and acknowledged the different privileges and prejudices they held. That said, it was jarring to have a book set in the 1920s with a cast that held every single left-wing ideology from 2026. It felt like I was being clubbed over the head with it at times: racism, classism, sexism, wealth disparities, slavery, colonisation, eugenics, unions, alcoholism, and these are just the ones I remember off the top of my head.
Kit and Annie were cute, but jfc That really lowered the enjoyment factor for me.
I really liked the cast of characters, how diverse they were in a multitude of ways and how many of them reflected on their circumstances and acknowledged the different privileges and prejudices they held. That said, it was jarring to have a book set in the 1920s with a cast that held every single left-wing ideology from 2026. It felt like I was being clubbed over the head with it at times: racism, classism, sexism, wealth disparities, slavery, colonisation, eugenics, unions, alcoholism, and these are just the ones I remember off the top of my head.
Kit and Annie were cute, but jfc That really lowered the enjoyment factor for me.
June 3, 2026
Real women in Oxford, not long after women were admitted and able to study... sort of. I loved this take on burgeoning female presence in acadaemia.
"Books become like loved one," Dorelia said. "One begins to know the characters and words as if they're one's friends."
This quote captures the urge behind their need to read, to drink in all the literature available to them, despite inhibitive costs beyond their means and the suppression of 'inappropriate writing' by those who believe they know better.
Flavours of 'The Dictionary Of Lost Words' and referencing Virginia Woolf's 'A Room Of One's Own' only enhance this brilliant story of four young women who meet as fellow boarders at Somerville ready to dive into their dreams of learning and self-improvement (whether that be by bagging a rich man or furthering the socialist cause or establishing a career that will support the family) is a must read. I couldn't put it down and was sad to get to the last page.
I want to be a literary marauder!!!
"Books become like loved one," Dorelia said. "One begins to know the characters and words as if they're one's friends."
This quote captures the urge behind their need to read, to drink in all the literature available to them, despite inhibitive costs beyond their means and the suppression of 'inappropriate writing' by those who believe they know better.
Flavours of 'The Dictionary Of Lost Words' and referencing Virginia Woolf's 'A Room Of One's Own' only enhance this brilliant story of four young women who meet as fellow boarders at Somerville ready to dive into their dreams of learning and self-improvement (whether that be by bagging a rich man or furthering the socialist cause or establishing a career that will support the family) is a must read. I couldn't put it down and was sad to get to the last page.
I want to be a literary marauder!!!
July 31, 2026
4.5 stars
The story is about Annie (or Dashie), a working class woman from Australia who goes to study at Oxford in the early 1900s. She develops close friendships with three woman from diverse backgrounds. They form the society of literary marauders and set out to steal books that are not meant to be read by "nice young ladies".
The book explores many themes, such as female friendships, class, culture, belonging, and standing for what you believe in.
I was very engaged throughout the entire book and finished it rather quickly. I loved the characters and they became to feel like actual friends. Sometimes I was annoyed at them for being so stubborn!
My only minor criticism would be that it felt a bit rushed towards the end. A lot happened in the last few chapters.
The story is about Annie (or Dashie), a working class woman from Australia who goes to study at Oxford in the early 1900s. She develops close friendships with three woman from diverse backgrounds. They form the society of literary marauders and set out to steal books that are not meant to be read by "nice young ladies".
The book explores many themes, such as female friendships, class, culture, belonging, and standing for what you believe in.
I was very engaged throughout the entire book and finished it rather quickly. I loved the characters and they became to feel like actual friends. Sometimes I was annoyed at them for being so stubborn!
My only minor criticism would be that it felt a bit rushed towards the end. A lot happened in the last few chapters.
May 20, 2026
I loved the themes explored in this book, it felt jam packed with ethical and moral thoughts that shadow the way things are done today. From eugenics to the impact of social class and gender, the social and political ideologies discussed are still referenced in what I studied at university in the last decade. The context of oxford and Shakespeare, as well as the opulence of the 1920s gives these themes life and dimension .
The only downside to this book is how long it took me to get into the story. Although the scene setting that's required to discuss big questions takes time, it took me a while to engage with the characters in the necessary way to explore the story fully.
The only downside to this book is how long it took me to get into the story. Although the scene setting that's required to discuss big questions takes time, it took me a while to engage with the characters in the necessary way to explore the story fully.
June 22, 2026
I .loved so much about this book; the main characters, the setting and the political and sexual discussions the girls have. I loved their idea of reading books nice young ladies should not be exposed to and that they seem to learn more in their society than in their lectures.
Some parts, however, did not ring true. Lady Susan for one. She managed to get the girls out of so much trouble, so easily. And did she have designs on Annie from the start? Miss Pottle: she was very one dimensional. And the theft from the library was completely unbelievable.
In spite of the flaws, I enjoyed the read.
Some parts, however, did not ring true. Lady Susan for one. She managed to get the girls out of so much trouble, so easily. And did she have designs on Annie from the start? Miss Pottle: she was very one dimensional. And the theft from the library was completely unbelievable.
In spite of the flaws, I enjoyed the read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It wasn’t what I expected but still an enjoyable and insightful read. I was expecting a story about a group of young rebels at Oxford gathering in secret to read banned books. This was a tenuous thread throughout but the story ventured into a couple of romances, political intrigue and the class divide. I wanted to know more about issues that were only alluded to. Such great potential but still an entertaining read.
April 8, 2026
A riveting coming of age story about societal expectations, sex, finding yourself, and the people you claim as your own along the way.
Sasha Wasley has written a must-read story for anyone who knows their people are out there but hasn't quite found them yet. Or anyone who remembers the journey to finding their place in the world.
Set in beautiful Oxford, with flashes of Australia as a startling contrast, the vivid imagery meant the setting was almost a character in its own right.
The Society of Literary Marauders is a reminder to be true to yourself, to remain curious, to advocate for change, and to always read the books they don't want you to read.
Sasha Wasley has written a must-read story for anyone who knows their people are out there but hasn't quite found them yet. Or anyone who remembers the journey to finding their place in the world.
Set in beautiful Oxford, with flashes of Australia as a startling contrast, the vivid imagery meant the setting was almost a character in its own right.
The Society of Literary Marauders is a reminder to be true to yourself, to remain curious, to advocate for change, and to always read the books they don't want you to read.
June 7, 2026
I adored the cover of this book in the store and something in the blurb sparked my interest so I took a leap and bought it.
What a sweet book. I loved the mischief and the madness, even Annie driving me crazy with her foolish decisions time and time again. Lots of silliness and feminism, the friendships felt authentic and I loved the tracking around Oxford. It really didn't turn out anyway that I thought it would, and that's what made me love it.
What a sweet book. I loved the mischief and the madness, even Annie driving me crazy with her foolish decisions time and time again. Lots of silliness and feminism, the friendships felt authentic and I loved the tracking around Oxford. It really didn't turn out anyway that I thought it would, and that's what made me love it.
June 8, 2026
All the ingredients for my favourite kind of historical fiction. Fun, educated, empowered female characters, Australian characters and overseas settings. Starting with a sea voyage and a Tasmanian Tiger sets you up for an engaging story. Plenty of Oxford University 1920s history and detail. The book club meetings are proper discussions and facts seem very well researched. The author must be very broadly read. Highly recommended.
June 14, 2026
Entertaining overall, with some interesting historical insights.
I did feel somewhat duped by the book blurb. The story is told from Annie's point of view, and most of it is about her. The other three are mostly the supporting cast. A pity, because I found them to be interesting characters. I also wished there was more actual literary marauding.
Eleanor Howell did a great job narrating the book.
I did feel somewhat duped by the book blurb. The story is told from Annie's point of view, and most of it is about her. The other three are mostly the supporting cast. A pity, because I found them to be interesting characters. I also wished there was more actual literary marauding.
Eleanor Howell did a great job narrating the book.
June 24, 2026
I read this entire book in less than 24 hours. It felt like I was living with Annie, Ridley, Dorelia and Norma. Politics and equality and emotion and strength were all threaded throughout the story, and debated in ways that perfectly sounded like young women figuring themselves out, exploring new concepts with different approaches based on their backgrounds, sharing knowledge and perspective. I felt at home, I felt afraid and I fell in love just as Annie did.
July 26, 2026
I picked this up on a whim as I was on my way out of the library. Ignoring the age old adage about judgment and book covers, I was drawn in by the design and the combined intrigue and feistyness of the title. Flicking through I noted that it was:
- historical fiction; tick ✅
- female author; tick ✅
- Australian author; surprise and double tick ✅✅
- and had the stamp of approval of the libraries most popular winter reads ✅
And this little book did not disappoint. A highly enjoyable tale detailing the exploits of a motley crew of girls as they pursue their dreams across Oxford and Australia. The novel manages to navigate a range of challenging themes including class, poverty, alcoholism, eugenics, extinction and theft, whilst maintaining the tone of a light hearted academic adventure novel. Even includes some book club questions to discuss at the end. Would highly recommend!
- historical fiction; tick ✅
- female author; tick ✅
- Australian author; surprise and double tick ✅✅
- and had the stamp of approval of the libraries most popular winter reads ✅
And this little book did not disappoint. A highly enjoyable tale detailing the exploits of a motley crew of girls as they pursue their dreams across Oxford and Australia. The novel manages to navigate a range of challenging themes including class, poverty, alcoholism, eugenics, extinction and theft, whilst maintaining the tone of a light hearted academic adventure novel. Even includes some book club questions to discuss at the end. Would highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved this book! Oxford University, 1928, four young women become friends making a pledge to "read any book kept away from nice young ladies".
The women are from various cultures and social backgrounds. I love the friendships, the character development, the 'maraudering' and the setting. I'm hoping for a sequel...I will definitely be recommending this one to my customers!
The women are from various cultures and social backgrounds. I love the friendships, the character development, the 'maraudering' and the setting. I'm hoping for a sequel...I will definitely be recommending this one to my customers!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An absolute page turner with some great one liners the test of a true writer. I miss 1928 ready to go back there and hang out with Kit, Annie and Ridley. Definetly no soggy middle in this book tension even increases as the story unfolds. So many great factual tid bits tied in just like Snap Shots from Home. Highly recommend this book.
April 27, 2026
Very enjoyable, with good themes , set in 1928, with a group of quite different girls. Each has to adapt to the ways of Oxford and the British culture. Class, colonialism, eugenics, intellectual snobbery, gender , racism and love all come into this. I especially liked Annie , who remained true to herself, despite various avenues that she could have gone down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews