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Woolworths #3
Wartime at Woolworths
The Woolworths girls have come a long way together . . .Fun loving Maisie, is devoted to her young family and her work at Woolworths. But her happy life with her RAF officer husband, their baby daughter leads her to think of the family she left behind . . . With the war now into its fourth year, what will she find when she sets about searching for them?Sarah and her husband, Alan, are blissfully happy and long for a sibling for their daughter. But dark days lay ahead for this close family.Freda heads home to Birmingham, to go in search of her family, back to the life she fled – far from the safety of Woolworths and her new friends.With families’ separated by war, will the Woolworths girls be able to pull together?Wartime at Woolworths is the third moving instalment in the much-loved Woolworths series by bestselling author Elaine Everest.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 3, 2018
97 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Everest
23 books190 followersElaine Everest is the Sunday Times Bestselling author of historical sagas including The Woolworths Girls series, The Teashop Girls series and other popular books.
She is represented by the Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency Ltd.
She is represented by the Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency Ltd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
May 1, 2018
This is the third full length book (& the fourth book in total) in the hugely popular Woolworths Girls series. The first full length book is called ‘The Woolworths Girls’ was released on 05/05/2016, a novella called ‘Carols At Woolworths’ was released on 05/10/2017 and the second full length book is called ‘Christmas At Woolworths’ which was released on 02/11/2017. I have read and adored each and every one. ‘Wartime At Woolworths’ is no different and I absolutely loved it but more about that in a bit.
Where do I start with the lovely Woolworths ladies? That’s not meant in a bad way, far from it. It’s just choosing which one to start with. Maisie is what you might call a party girl with a heart of gold. She loves having fun but she also loves being a wife to her gorgeous sounding husband, David and a mother to her gorgeous little girl. She also loves her friends from Woolworths, her good friend Ruby and her extended family. Something happens, which means that Maisie has to open her heart and her house to two more children. She does this without a moment’s hesitation. Freda is another lovely girl who adores her friends, who have become like family to her and she adores her work at Woolworths and as a despatch rider for the Fire Service. She is estranged from her mother, for reasons which do become apparent. Although Freda no longer sees her mother, it doesn’t mean that she has forgotten her. Sarah is the wife of Alan, who is currently somewhere abroad fighting the enemy and the mother of an adorable sounding little girl. She misses her husband dearly but she understands that he has to do his duty. She can’t wait for the war to be over, for Alan to be home and for her little family to be together again. Maybe then they can work on having a sibling for their daughter. Sarah is the unofficial right hand woman for Betty Billington, who is the manager of Woolworths in Erith. There are dark times ahead for Sarah and her little family. Betty Billington is another character that I took to and loved. She is a more mature lady, who has found love and happiness perhaps a bit later than she would have liked. She is married to a widower and step mother to two children, who initially cause some problems for her. Betty discovers what is behind their bad behaviour and tries to find a resolution. As much as she loves her step children, Betty can’t help but hope that Mother Nature will be kind to her and bless her with a child of her own. I was so keeping my fingers crossed for her. I can’t let myself finish the part on characters without mentioning Ruby, who really is like a Mother Hen. She is always ready with a cup of tea, a friendly ear and some wise advice. On occasion, Ruby gets involved and does what she can to sort out tricky situations. Ruby also has an admirer in Bob, who is desperate to marry her but she feels that she will be betraying her Eddie, who sadly died a while ago. Will Maisie make peace with her family? Will Maisie cope with the extra additions to her family? Will Freda reunite with her mother? What dark times are on the horizon for Sarah? Will Betty get her dearest wish? Will Ruby finally say yes to Bob? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you. Believe you me, you will not regret it.
To say that this book is seriously addictive reading has to be the understatement of the year. I was hooked on the book from the moment I opened the front cover and the book held me under its spell until the moment I closed the back cover. The writing style is such that you can’t fail to be drawn into the story and reading this book really does feel like reuniting with old friends. I even felt as though I had clocked on for a shift with the girls so to speak. Whilst reading this book, the time and the page numbers flew past in a blur and before I knew what was happening I had finished the book, which I was so disappointed about. ‘Wartime At Woolworths’ is one of those books that will take you on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride. There were several times when I wanted to shout, cheer, argue, cry, smile and laugh in equal measure. There were also times when I wanted to jump inside the pages of this book to remonstrate with certain characters or to slap some of them around the face with a wet flip flop or in some cases, a punch to the face for the way that they treated my friends- the Woolworths Girls and their families. There was only one bad thing about this book and that was the fact that the book had to end. I was enjoying it so much that I just wanted it to continue on and on and on.
I simply can’t recommend this book, this series and this author highly enough. Elaine Everest creates series’ that will keep you riveted, will make you feel nostalgic and will take you away from real life for a while. This series certainly brings back memories of Woolworths for me. In my case my memories mainly centre on the Pick & Mix department, which I was very familiar with. This book also brought back memories of my late father. As a teenager, he used to work at Woolworths in Durham city centre and would often talk about what he did whilst he was working there. The Woolworths Girls series is just crying out for television adaptation and I am sure that it would be a huge success. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5* although I would have awarded it more stars if I could have because I really did love this book.
Where do I start with the lovely Woolworths ladies? That’s not meant in a bad way, far from it. It’s just choosing which one to start with. Maisie is what you might call a party girl with a heart of gold. She loves having fun but she also loves being a wife to her gorgeous sounding husband, David and a mother to her gorgeous little girl. She also loves her friends from Woolworths, her good friend Ruby and her extended family. Something happens, which means that Maisie has to open her heart and her house to two more children. She does this without a moment’s hesitation. Freda is another lovely girl who adores her friends, who have become like family to her and she adores her work at Woolworths and as a despatch rider for the Fire Service. She is estranged from her mother, for reasons which do become apparent. Although Freda no longer sees her mother, it doesn’t mean that she has forgotten her. Sarah is the wife of Alan, who is currently somewhere abroad fighting the enemy and the mother of an adorable sounding little girl. She misses her husband dearly but she understands that he has to do his duty. She can’t wait for the war to be over, for Alan to be home and for her little family to be together again. Maybe then they can work on having a sibling for their daughter. Sarah is the unofficial right hand woman for Betty Billington, who is the manager of Woolworths in Erith. There are dark times ahead for Sarah and her little family. Betty Billington is another character that I took to and loved. She is a more mature lady, who has found love and happiness perhaps a bit later than she would have liked. She is married to a widower and step mother to two children, who initially cause some problems for her. Betty discovers what is behind their bad behaviour and tries to find a resolution. As much as she loves her step children, Betty can’t help but hope that Mother Nature will be kind to her and bless her with a child of her own. I was so keeping my fingers crossed for her. I can’t let myself finish the part on characters without mentioning Ruby, who really is like a Mother Hen. She is always ready with a cup of tea, a friendly ear and some wise advice. On occasion, Ruby gets involved and does what she can to sort out tricky situations. Ruby also has an admirer in Bob, who is desperate to marry her but she feels that she will be betraying her Eddie, who sadly died a while ago. Will Maisie make peace with her family? Will Maisie cope with the extra additions to her family? Will Freda reunite with her mother? What dark times are on the horizon for Sarah? Will Betty get her dearest wish? Will Ruby finally say yes to Bob? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you. Believe you me, you will not regret it.
To say that this book is seriously addictive reading has to be the understatement of the year. I was hooked on the book from the moment I opened the front cover and the book held me under its spell until the moment I closed the back cover. The writing style is such that you can’t fail to be drawn into the story and reading this book really does feel like reuniting with old friends. I even felt as though I had clocked on for a shift with the girls so to speak. Whilst reading this book, the time and the page numbers flew past in a blur and before I knew what was happening I had finished the book, which I was so disappointed about. ‘Wartime At Woolworths’ is one of those books that will take you on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride. There were several times when I wanted to shout, cheer, argue, cry, smile and laugh in equal measure. There were also times when I wanted to jump inside the pages of this book to remonstrate with certain characters or to slap some of them around the face with a wet flip flop or in some cases, a punch to the face for the way that they treated my friends- the Woolworths Girls and their families. There was only one bad thing about this book and that was the fact that the book had to end. I was enjoying it so much that I just wanted it to continue on and on and on.
I simply can’t recommend this book, this series and this author highly enough. Elaine Everest creates series’ that will keep you riveted, will make you feel nostalgic and will take you away from real life for a while. This series certainly brings back memories of Woolworths for me. In my case my memories mainly centre on the Pick & Mix department, which I was very familiar with. This book also brought back memories of my late father. As a teenager, he used to work at Woolworths in Durham city centre and would often talk about what he did whilst he was working there. The Woolworths Girls series is just crying out for television adaptation and I am sure that it would be a huge success. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5* although I would have awarded it more stars if I could have because I really did love this book.
October 2, 2025
The Woolworths girls have come a long way together . . .Fun loving Maisie, is devoted to her young family and her work at Woolworths. But her happy life with her RAF officer husband, their baby daughter leads her to think of the family she left behind . . . With the war now into its fourth year, what will she find when she sets about searching for them?Sarah and her husband, Alan, are blissfully happy and long for a sibling for their daughter. But dark days lay ahead for this close family.Freda heads home to Birmingham, to go in search of her family, back to the life she fled – far from the safety of Woolworths and her new friends.With families’ separated by war, will the Woolworths girls be able to pull together?
This is a fantastic series and I've loved following their journey.
it's heartfelt and extremely sad at times.
You can't help but feel the hardship of their lives, yet you are warmed by the continuous friendships and bonds of these women.
Everest is a gifted author who creates stories that always give us a happy ending note, her writing easily pulls you into a world gone by.
Highly recommend
Kerry Kennedy Author
This is a fantastic series and I've loved following their journey.
it's heartfelt and extremely sad at times.
You can't help but feel the hardship of their lives, yet you are warmed by the continuous friendships and bonds of these women.
Everest is a gifted author who creates stories that always give us a happy ending note, her writing easily pulls you into a world gone by.
Highly recommend
Kerry Kennedy Author
May 14, 2018
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I really enjoyed this book, the writing style was great and I felt transported back in time the more I read - this is such a great read!!
I loved the characters and the plot was great, it didn't take me long to read at all as I flew through the pages and it was great to catch up with Sarah, Freda and Maisie and the gang from the Erith Woolworths store!
Five stars from me!! A very enjoyable read and excellent for any fans of historical fiction!
I really enjoyed this book, the writing style was great and I felt transported back in time the more I read - this is such a great read!!
I loved the characters and the plot was great, it didn't take me long to read at all as I flew through the pages and it was great to catch up with Sarah, Freda and Maisie and the gang from the Erith Woolworths store!
Five stars from me!! A very enjoyable read and excellent for any fans of historical fiction!
May 17, 2018
Most of my followers will know I have a soft spot in my heart for the Woolworth girls. I have read all of the series and waited with baited breath to get to this one. Wartime at Woolworths gave me the opportunity to catch up with all the previous characters again. They all have hectic lives especially now the war has added further problems but they always stick together and take care of one another.
I love the way the author portrays each and every character so the reader feels as though they know them. It is such a pleasure to be able to sit down and open the book realising within a few chapters nothing else is likely to get done that day because you are lured into their world and desperate to get all the gossip. It’s a bit like the olden days of leaning over the garden fence and nattering for hours to the neighbour.
Life in Erith was quite tough during the war years but with Woolies at the centre of it the girls manage to cope with kids, marriage and general family life. I adore stories set during the war especially featuring day to day family ‘real’ life, while there can be some tough situations you just know they will all pull together in a bid to solve it.
As I said I was looking forward to this book so much and obviously wanted a place on the blog tour as normal. It so happens I was in hospital for a long duration when Wartime at Woolworths was available to bloggers, when I got home I was extremely disappointed to find out the books had been sent out and the tour arranged. Then the lovely Elaine contacted me to see if I had recovered enough to read it and popped me on the end of the tour ‘because it wouldn’t be the same without me’. I was SO touched at this kind gesture.
My advice if you want a great book that will give you all the feels within it’s pages and leave you wanting to get to know more about all the people involved is buy this book and if you haven’t got the previous in the series maybe pop those in your basket as well, Wartime can be read as a stand alone but why deprive yourself of the previous pleasure.
I read and reviewed this voluntarily, my thanks go to the author and publisher.
A marvellous well deserved 5 sparkly stars from me and a huge recommendation.
I love the way the author portrays each and every character so the reader feels as though they know them. It is such a pleasure to be able to sit down and open the book realising within a few chapters nothing else is likely to get done that day because you are lured into their world and desperate to get all the gossip. It’s a bit like the olden days of leaning over the garden fence and nattering for hours to the neighbour.
Life in Erith was quite tough during the war years but with Woolies at the centre of it the girls manage to cope with kids, marriage and general family life. I adore stories set during the war especially featuring day to day family ‘real’ life, while there can be some tough situations you just know they will all pull together in a bid to solve it.
As I said I was looking forward to this book so much and obviously wanted a place on the blog tour as normal. It so happens I was in hospital for a long duration when Wartime at Woolworths was available to bloggers, when I got home I was extremely disappointed to find out the books had been sent out and the tour arranged. Then the lovely Elaine contacted me to see if I had recovered enough to read it and popped me on the end of the tour ‘because it wouldn’t be the same without me’. I was SO touched at this kind gesture.
My advice if you want a great book that will give you all the feels within it’s pages and leave you wanting to get to know more about all the people involved is buy this book and if you haven’t got the previous in the series maybe pop those in your basket as well, Wartime can be read as a stand alone but why deprive yourself of the previous pleasure.
I read and reviewed this voluntarily, my thanks go to the author and publisher.
A marvellous well deserved 5 sparkly stars from me and a huge recommendation.
May 7, 2018
Another fantastic read
The story starts in March 1943,betty billington in charge of the erith store where we read new characters arriving in the book that have something to hide but betty is soon able to resolve that,nothing gets past betty and so we hear more about our Woolworth girls getting on with their lives with so much happening and cannot wait to see what this author brings us next as this book certainly had a bit of a cliffhanger of an ending. so enjoyed reading this one and look forward to more by this author
The story starts in March 1943,betty billington in charge of the erith store where we read new characters arriving in the book that have something to hide but betty is soon able to resolve that,nothing gets past betty and so we hear more about our Woolworth girls getting on with their lives with so much happening and cannot wait to see what this author brings us next as this book certainly had a bit of a cliffhanger of an ending. so enjoyed reading this one and look forward to more by this author
December 28, 2021
Loving this series, even if I have read it out of order!
May 8, 2018
Another great book from Elaine Everest on the lives of the girls that worked in Woolworths in Erith.
The characters are all such lovely people. The book ended leaving a follow up which I am glad to say that another is in the pipeline and am looking forward to reading.
The Wooldworth series are nice enjoyable reads which I personally would recommend for easy reading. So it's well done Elaine.
The characters are all such lovely people. The book ended leaving a follow up which I am glad to say that another is in the pipeline and am looking forward to reading.
The Wooldworth series are nice enjoyable reads which I personally would recommend for easy reading. So it's well done Elaine.
April 26, 2018
It has only been a few months since I reviewed Elaine’s last novel, Christmas at Woolworths, but here she is again with another wonderful book in the series that takes us instantly back to 1940s Kent and the girls who work in the Woolworths store in Erith. For anyone who has read the earlier books, Sarah, Freda and Maisie will be very familiar characters by now, and the ups and downs of their daily lives and that of their friends and family can’t help but enthral. Of course, the book can be read as a stand-alone novel but it’s so much nicer to start at the beginning (with The Woolworths Girls) and watch the girls’ friendship develop from the moment they first meet in 1938.
The story has now reached 1943, with perilous journeys being undertaken, bombs falling, husbands and brothers away fighting, some shady criminal business going on and sadly, as is to be expected in a wartime setting, a smattering of death and destruction too. But, as always, there is that sense of warmth and closeness the characters so clearly feel for each other, that binds them together and gives them strength whatever life throws at them, so there are lots of uplifting moments too, with romance, reunions, a wedding and new babies to look forward to along the way.
Elaine’s research shines through. The disasters that happen in the book, at the entrance to a station and at a neighbouring Woolworths store, really did happen, and we are taken there, right into the heart of the panic and heartbreak. What happened in maternity homes for young unmarried mothers; altering clothes to make wedding and bridesmaid dresses; young children being taken in when their own families were lost or killed; women signing up for war work in the fire service or on the railways… it’s all here. And through it all, the Woolworths store stands at the heart of the action, selling everything from vegetables to blankets to pots and pans, its staff managing to keep the doors open and the customers happy, come what may.
For anyone who has lived through the war, has ever worked in a Woolworths store, or just enjoys a good old-fashioned feel-good and very nostalgic saga, this is the book for you!
The story has now reached 1943, with perilous journeys being undertaken, bombs falling, husbands and brothers away fighting, some shady criminal business going on and sadly, as is to be expected in a wartime setting, a smattering of death and destruction too. But, as always, there is that sense of warmth and closeness the characters so clearly feel for each other, that binds them together and gives them strength whatever life throws at them, so there are lots of uplifting moments too, with romance, reunions, a wedding and new babies to look forward to along the way.
Elaine’s research shines through. The disasters that happen in the book, at the entrance to a station and at a neighbouring Woolworths store, really did happen, and we are taken there, right into the heart of the panic and heartbreak. What happened in maternity homes for young unmarried mothers; altering clothes to make wedding and bridesmaid dresses; young children being taken in when their own families were lost or killed; women signing up for war work in the fire service or on the railways… it’s all here. And through it all, the Woolworths store stands at the heart of the action, selling everything from vegetables to blankets to pots and pans, its staff managing to keep the doors open and the customers happy, come what may.
For anyone who has lived through the war, has ever worked in a Woolworths store, or just enjoys a good old-fashioned feel-good and very nostalgic saga, this is the book for you!
January 2, 2024
Firstly, HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY ELAINE!!!
This is the book I’ve been looking most forward to since finishing Christmas at Woolworths and it most certainly didn’t disappoint. This is the third full length novel but fourth novel to this series.
In this book, we’re back with Sarah, Maisie and Freda (otherwise known as The Woolworths girls), these girls aren’t just characters to me, they’re lifelong friends.
This book sees the girls separated, Maisie wants to find the family she left behind, Freda heads back to Birmingham to the life she left behind. I really felt for these two, because of the tragedy of their situations and the outcomes.
Sarah also experiences these dark days but not so much in the way Maisie and Freda have. By the end of the book, I really felt I wanted to have a good old cry for all three girls.
Wartime at Woolworths is a book I absolutely devoured cover to cover. It was impossible to put down, once I was back with these characters, I became immersed in the story, their situations etc…
This is a book I HIGHLY recommend to all wartime saga fans.
This is the book I’ve been looking most forward to since finishing Christmas at Woolworths and it most certainly didn’t disappoint. This is the third full length novel but fourth novel to this series.
In this book, we’re back with Sarah, Maisie and Freda (otherwise known as The Woolworths girls), these girls aren’t just characters to me, they’re lifelong friends.
This book sees the girls separated, Maisie wants to find the family she left behind, Freda heads back to Birmingham to the life she left behind. I really felt for these two, because of the tragedy of their situations and the outcomes.
Sarah also experiences these dark days but not so much in the way Maisie and Freda have. By the end of the book, I really felt I wanted to have a good old cry for all three girls.
Wartime at Woolworths is a book I absolutely devoured cover to cover. It was impossible to put down, once I was back with these characters, I became immersed in the story, their situations etc…
This is a book I HIGHLY recommend to all wartime saga fans.
November 24, 2018
Loving this series so much and can't wait for the next book now I've got it ready and waiting. It's full of friendship, heartbreak, romance, families and working life through the war. Really makes you think how hard people had it in the time through the war.
Great to hear more from the girls and how they grow in their friendship and how they enjoy working together and of course exciting news to.
Loved it a great read
Great to hear more from the girls and how they grow in their friendship and how they enjoy working together and of course exciting news to.
Loved it a great read
May 27, 2018
Woolworths girls
Reading this book is like welcoming an old friend back I love the characters they all have something going on in there life's cant wait for the next book 5 STARS for a wonderful read .
Reading this book is like welcoming an old friend back I love the characters they all have something going on in there life's cant wait for the next book 5 STARS for a wonderful read .
June 28, 2022
great book would happily read again. 5 stars. Looking forward the the next book in the series... loved the ending of this book. Keeps you gripped wanting to know the rest..... I did t expect to read the ending about the house.... lovely twist.... brilliantly written.
May 12, 2018
Wartime at Woolworths by Elaine Everest is book three in the series which follows a group of women who work at or are connected to the Woolworths store in Erith during World War Two. By now I feel I know all the various characters fairly well and as Christmas at Woolworths was only published just before Christmas the recent goings on were fairly fresh in my mind. For those new to the series this book is easily read as a standalone novel as all the various back stories and events are seamlessly woven into the new story. I think this has been the best book so far, I did enjoy the book at Christmas but it wasn't my favourite, whereas here I felt the story really moved on and all the setting up that had taken place in the previous books began to bore fruit. Some storylines were finally put to bed as I think some elements of the overall story had dragged in the past. Therefore this allowed new little plots to begin to emerge and I thought it has now helped the story became fresh and interesting once again as at times in my mind it had become quite stale and repetitive.
The brief prologue opens in 1944. The war that has been raging on for the last five years seems never ending and the entire world is continuing to suffer on a daily basis. Betty Billington, manageress of the Erith branch of Woolworths. is sitting in her office chatting to friend and fellow co-worker Sarah Gilbert. Sarah's husband Alan whom she met at Woolworths and married on the day war was declared is away fighting but with the help of her friends and family she is bringing up her daughter Georgina and is now pregnant with baby number two. Betty and Sarah's relationship has developed more into a family/friend relationship rather than that of boss and worker. They and their many friends and relatives are always there for each other through thick and thin and through all the troubles and pressures that come with the war.
Their peaceful conversation is interrupted as news filters through that the Woolworths at New Cross has been bombed. Unfortunately this will have a major significance much later on in the story. The prologue ends there and we are taken back to March 1943. The last time this happened, I found the abrupt ending to the prologue, particularity leaving it on a cliffhanger and then going back a year or two to begin the story proper, very unsettling and disjointed as I was trying to piece things together. This time I was more prepared for it and I knew that the book would lead up to the events in the prologue so I was eager to see how things would connect back to the first few pages.
The first few chapters were like a catch up with old friends and it was an easy way to brush up on certain aspects of every characters ongoing storylines. Maisie is Sarah's best friend and one of those people who always seem to be so glamorous, elegant and put together despite the rations and clothing shortages. She is married to David who appears to have a very important job that we never hear much about but unlike some of the others she doesn't have the worry of him being away fighting. Maisie is enjoying her baby, Ruby, and she feels she can always call at number thirteen Alexandra Road – the home of Ruby Caselton, Sarah's grandmother, for a cup of tea and a catch up.
Beneath all the veneer that Maisie likes to portray is a person who likes to keep her past to herself and not let on just how tough her childhood really was. She fears if the truth does emerge that her marriage to David would be over in an instant. As readers we had never gotten to hear of her background until now and it was very interesting to see Maisie venture down a path with Freda, one that is necessary but will bring about life changing circumstances. Confronting the past will help her move forward but a tragic incident will help show Maisie's caring, selfless side as she firmly steps up to the plate when needed. The incident that occurs I had read about previously in some family sagas set during WW2 and it was dealt with such sensitivity, tact and honesty here and packed full of emotion.
I was glad to see that every character that I read about previously did feature again. There are quite a few to keep track of but it is good to see all included as sometimes I feel in wartime series that some characters can dominate over others leaving characters that deserve a good storyline very much out in the cold. I had thought previously that Freda needed to step into the spotlight a bit more and again as with Maisie, it was time for Freda to confront her past and put some demons to rest. Freda rents a room from Ruby and as well as working in Woolworths also volunteers as a dispatch rider in the Auxillary Fire Service. It took a lot for Freda to respond to a cry of help from her past but she did prove that family bonds and ties no matter how much hurt and pain one has been through will always exist and that you should always support those when they need it the most.
Ruby Caselton, is perhaps my favourite character with Betty coming a close second. Ruby is the matriarch of the series and is a mother to anyone who graces her doorstep. She always offers sound advice and has just the right words to use to offer comfort and solace to those who need it. She never seems to rest or even the word no does not seem evident in her vocabulary. I suppose keeping busy everyday caring for various children, renting out her rooms, helping anyone who arrives and just the genuine friendship and camaraderie that exists between herself Maisie, Freda, Sarah, Betty and Gwyneth is what gets her through the days of the war.
I really don't think that she would want it any other way. I don't think I would have been as supportive to neighbour, Vera Munro, with her sharp tongue and bad words for everybody. But now I thought her story line showed a much more softer and vulnerable side to her personality and the way that Ruby worked around Vera and her problem was a masterclass in showing how brilliant Ruby really was. I did think though leaving good old Bob hanging and not setting a date or even confirming if they were to marry was just stringing him a long a bit. I think if Bob had disappeared from her life she would have missed him incredibly. The resolution to this aspect of the storyline was bittersweet and beautiful.
As I reflect on Wartime at Woolworths, there really was an awful lot that did happen throughout this story and I think that's what made me enjoy it more so than the previous offering. Nothing much seemed to happen when we last met the women but here I was rapidly turning the pages as I became engrossed in everything that was happening. So much so that I flew through the book in two sittings. This series really does show that women were in the backbone of British society at a time when so many men were away fighting. That life took on a whole new perspective for everybody and I think they sensed that once war was finally over that they would never go back to the way things were pre 1939. I think Betty is a prime example of this. I thought she was strict, stern and dare I say it even cold hearted when we first met her but now to me she seems like a butterfly emerging transformed from its chrysalis. She has found happiness in her marriage to Douglas and just seems more amiable and approachable in general.
Sarah and co trust her now and can confide in her even though she is their boss. Her efficiency with regard to all aspects of her life serves her well in work but at home she has let some things slip through the cracks. I thoroughly enjoyed her continuing storyline, both in terms of her relationship with her stepdaughters and how the arrival of a new couple to Alexandra Road have a bearing on other major goings on. As for that delightful little snippet towards the end boy is it well deserved and earned.
Wartime at Woolworths offered so much to the reader, I had worried that I was going off the series and not enjoying it as much as I should have been but this new book thankfully quashed all those fears. There are testing times for everyone connected to Woolworths and I loved how the author shows the harsh realities of the time and is not afraid to shy away from the feelings of grief, sadness, loneliness and anger that did make their presence known at the time. But this was nicely balanced with moments of happiness, exuberance and joy and demonstrated that everyone had to take the opportunity to grab the good times when they came by during the war as they were very much few and far between. I loved the ending of the book and believe it set things up nicely for the next book, A Gift from Woolworths, which I hope will be with us before the end of the year. I hope this book will bring new readers to the Woolworths story and I do think it will delight and satisfy those who have been with Sarah and the girls right from the very beginning.
The brief prologue opens in 1944. The war that has been raging on for the last five years seems never ending and the entire world is continuing to suffer on a daily basis. Betty Billington, manageress of the Erith branch of Woolworths. is sitting in her office chatting to friend and fellow co-worker Sarah Gilbert. Sarah's husband Alan whom she met at Woolworths and married on the day war was declared is away fighting but with the help of her friends and family she is bringing up her daughter Georgina and is now pregnant with baby number two. Betty and Sarah's relationship has developed more into a family/friend relationship rather than that of boss and worker. They and their many friends and relatives are always there for each other through thick and thin and through all the troubles and pressures that come with the war.
Their peaceful conversation is interrupted as news filters through that the Woolworths at New Cross has been bombed. Unfortunately this will have a major significance much later on in the story. The prologue ends there and we are taken back to March 1943. The last time this happened, I found the abrupt ending to the prologue, particularity leaving it on a cliffhanger and then going back a year or two to begin the story proper, very unsettling and disjointed as I was trying to piece things together. This time I was more prepared for it and I knew that the book would lead up to the events in the prologue so I was eager to see how things would connect back to the first few pages.
The first few chapters were like a catch up with old friends and it was an easy way to brush up on certain aspects of every characters ongoing storylines. Maisie is Sarah's best friend and one of those people who always seem to be so glamorous, elegant and put together despite the rations and clothing shortages. She is married to David who appears to have a very important job that we never hear much about but unlike some of the others she doesn't have the worry of him being away fighting. Maisie is enjoying her baby, Ruby, and she feels she can always call at number thirteen Alexandra Road – the home of Ruby Caselton, Sarah's grandmother, for a cup of tea and a catch up.
Beneath all the veneer that Maisie likes to portray is a person who likes to keep her past to herself and not let on just how tough her childhood really was. She fears if the truth does emerge that her marriage to David would be over in an instant. As readers we had never gotten to hear of her background until now and it was very interesting to see Maisie venture down a path with Freda, one that is necessary but will bring about life changing circumstances. Confronting the past will help her move forward but a tragic incident will help show Maisie's caring, selfless side as she firmly steps up to the plate when needed. The incident that occurs I had read about previously in some family sagas set during WW2 and it was dealt with such sensitivity, tact and honesty here and packed full of emotion.
I was glad to see that every character that I read about previously did feature again. There are quite a few to keep track of but it is good to see all included as sometimes I feel in wartime series that some characters can dominate over others leaving characters that deserve a good storyline very much out in the cold. I had thought previously that Freda needed to step into the spotlight a bit more and again as with Maisie, it was time for Freda to confront her past and put some demons to rest. Freda rents a room from Ruby and as well as working in Woolworths also volunteers as a dispatch rider in the Auxillary Fire Service. It took a lot for Freda to respond to a cry of help from her past but she did prove that family bonds and ties no matter how much hurt and pain one has been through will always exist and that you should always support those when they need it the most.
Ruby Caselton, is perhaps my favourite character with Betty coming a close second. Ruby is the matriarch of the series and is a mother to anyone who graces her doorstep. She always offers sound advice and has just the right words to use to offer comfort and solace to those who need it. She never seems to rest or even the word no does not seem evident in her vocabulary. I suppose keeping busy everyday caring for various children, renting out her rooms, helping anyone who arrives and just the genuine friendship and camaraderie that exists between herself Maisie, Freda, Sarah, Betty and Gwyneth is what gets her through the days of the war.
I really don't think that she would want it any other way. I don't think I would have been as supportive to neighbour, Vera Munro, with her sharp tongue and bad words for everybody. But now I thought her story line showed a much more softer and vulnerable side to her personality and the way that Ruby worked around Vera and her problem was a masterclass in showing how brilliant Ruby really was. I did think though leaving good old Bob hanging and not setting a date or even confirming if they were to marry was just stringing him a long a bit. I think if Bob had disappeared from her life she would have missed him incredibly. The resolution to this aspect of the storyline was bittersweet and beautiful.
As I reflect on Wartime at Woolworths, there really was an awful lot that did happen throughout this story and I think that's what made me enjoy it more so than the previous offering. Nothing much seemed to happen when we last met the women but here I was rapidly turning the pages as I became engrossed in everything that was happening. So much so that I flew through the book in two sittings. This series really does show that women were in the backbone of British society at a time when so many men were away fighting. That life took on a whole new perspective for everybody and I think they sensed that once war was finally over that they would never go back to the way things were pre 1939. I think Betty is a prime example of this. I thought she was strict, stern and dare I say it even cold hearted when we first met her but now to me she seems like a butterfly emerging transformed from its chrysalis. She has found happiness in her marriage to Douglas and just seems more amiable and approachable in general.
Sarah and co trust her now and can confide in her even though she is their boss. Her efficiency with regard to all aspects of her life serves her well in work but at home she has let some things slip through the cracks. I thoroughly enjoyed her continuing storyline, both in terms of her relationship with her stepdaughters and how the arrival of a new couple to Alexandra Road have a bearing on other major goings on. As for that delightful little snippet towards the end boy is it well deserved and earned.
Wartime at Woolworths offered so much to the reader, I had worried that I was going off the series and not enjoying it as much as I should have been but this new book thankfully quashed all those fears. There are testing times for everyone connected to Woolworths and I loved how the author shows the harsh realities of the time and is not afraid to shy away from the feelings of grief, sadness, loneliness and anger that did make their presence known at the time. But this was nicely balanced with moments of happiness, exuberance and joy and demonstrated that everyone had to take the opportunity to grab the good times when they came by during the war as they were very much few and far between. I loved the ending of the book and believe it set things up nicely for the next book, A Gift from Woolworths, which I hope will be with us before the end of the year. I hope this book will bring new readers to the Woolworths story and I do think it will delight and satisfy those who have been with Sarah and the girls right from the very beginning.
July 22, 2018
I have absolutely loved the 'Woolworth Girls' books up till now. Woolies was part of my childhood, I remember Mummy going to the Pick 'n' Mix to buy what I regarded as grown-up sweets. Sweets were religiously monitored in our house to a child, maybe that's why I never needed fillings and was only allowed a small bag of 'children's sweets' which had to last a week, or longer. As I grew up in Sevenoaks, it was near enough for me to know the areas talked about in the books.
Sadly, I feel that "Wartime at Woolworths" was 'A Bridge Too Far.' Not only was it littered with typing errors - did the proofreader not bother turning up to work that day? but most of the story was so incredulous, it was hard to believe. Yes, I know it's fiction, but this was at times over the top in what is basically a lovely WWII fiction novel.
With the 'Woolworth Girls,' Betty, and Ruby appearing to get deeply involved in every crime imaginable and then solving it, they should have been joint heads of Scotland Yard with a crime percentage of 0% in London and South East Kent. Also, one of the most bandied about phrases with posters to accompany it was "Is Your Journey Really Necessary?" You'll know what I mean if you've read this, and if you haven't it will become obvious when you reach that stage of the story. The pig that belongs to the Pig Club, half of the carcass had to go to the government when slaughtered, the story implies the club got to keep the entire carcass for themselves.
When Betty's house is hit by a V-1 flying bomb, buzz bomb, or doodlebug in July 1944, by November 1944 her house has been repaired and is as good as new. That sounds very unlikely, given the lack of workmen called up to serve, ad lack of building materials. Unless the Billington's slipped someone a few quid to jump them to the top of the queue it would have been an aeon before their house was repaired. As they seem, decent people, not given to black market dealings or war profiteering, this seems unlikely.
Lastly, in my list of moans is understanding how David Carlisle who is something big and secret in the RAF, has the ability to do the things he seems to be able to pull off when he interferes in other branches of the services affairs. I bet Arthur 'Bomber' Harris, or, Sir H.C.T. Dowding wish they'd of had his extraordinarily long arms to achieve the feats he accomplishes.
As on the whole, I do like the whole ethos of the Woolworth Girls concept, I look forward to 'A Gift From Woolworths,' due out later this year. I like the warm family feel and the way everyone comes together. I am also so pleased that Betty is having a baby and hope that everything will go alright for her. Out of all the characters she deserves some happiness after all those years of loneliness.
April 4, 2019
This was a very more-ish book rather like Pick & Mix. I fondly remember the days of Pick & Mix in Woolworths (I stole a jelly baby when I was 6, and I still feel guilty about it), buying my first single there and of course going for lipstick and mascara.
I've become quite fond of recent historical books like these once in a while, and Elaine Everest and Margaret Dickinson do them best of all. I know this is the third in a series though it didn't matter than I hadn't read the preceding books. It's pleasantly readable as a standalone and the characters welcome you anyway! And there is a real Pick & Mix of characters. Many of them in different shapes and sizes. I'd met Freda before in the Butlins Girls story which is also essentially a tale of family, friendship and the challenges of war and its aftermath. Sarah, Betty, Freda, Maisie and some extended family members all met and worked at Woolworth's in the past and now we see them married with children. And wouldn't we all like a Ruby to sort out our lives and problems? I know I would.
Three of our girls suffer family tragedies, one in the real life March 1943 crush at Bethnal Green tube station, the largest single loss of civilian life in the UK in the Second World War. If there is a negative to the book, it is that notwithstanding the terror and privations of war, everyone really did "keep calm and carry on", even when faced with death on their doorsteps. But this is a tale of everyday life, not a psychological thriller with twists and turns. It's people like us, our mothers, grandmothers and friends getting on with life and being thankful for what and who they can hold on to during those six years from hell.
This story cleverly mixes high emotion and great joy and provides plenty of scope for positive women to rise up and help each other in the real wartime spirit. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I've become quite fond of recent historical books like these once in a while, and Elaine Everest and Margaret Dickinson do them best of all. I know this is the third in a series though it didn't matter than I hadn't read the preceding books. It's pleasantly readable as a standalone and the characters welcome you anyway! And there is a real Pick & Mix of characters. Many of them in different shapes and sizes. I'd met Freda before in the Butlins Girls story which is also essentially a tale of family, friendship and the challenges of war and its aftermath. Sarah, Betty, Freda, Maisie and some extended family members all met and worked at Woolworth's in the past and now we see them married with children. And wouldn't we all like a Ruby to sort out our lives and problems? I know I would.
Three of our girls suffer family tragedies, one in the real life March 1943 crush at Bethnal Green tube station, the largest single loss of civilian life in the UK in the Second World War. If there is a negative to the book, it is that notwithstanding the terror and privations of war, everyone really did "keep calm and carry on", even when faced with death on their doorsteps. But this is a tale of everyday life, not a psychological thriller with twists and turns. It's people like us, our mothers, grandmothers and friends getting on with life and being thankful for what and who they can hold on to during those six years from hell.
This story cleverly mixes high emotion and great joy and provides plenty of scope for positive women to rise up and help each other in the real wartime spirit. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 5, 2019
I simply love the Woolworths Girls books and this one did not disappoint. I believe this is my favorite yet. Elaine Everest just keeps putting out wonderful books about the "greatest generation". I love the characters and the slight humor in her books is delightful. I loved Woolworths and it's so inspiring to see how people in Europe dealt with the evils of World War II with such determination. I highly recommend her books and already have her 4th in the series on order.
November 16, 2020
When I began reading this, I didn't realise it was the 3rd in the series. However that didn't seem to matter as I don't think the characters carry over, or if they do they are still introduced as if you don't know them.
The title of this book got my attention as I generally enjoy reading anything related to the First or Second World War as they were my faviourite topics to study when I was a history student. I'm also old enough to remember Woolworths (obviously not when this book was written, but before they closed down) and I used to enjoy going in the shop with my mum.
I enjoyed this book and all of the characters had their own things to deal with in the war, but it all came together.
I will definitely consider reading the rest of the books in the series (in order this time).
The title of this book got my attention as I generally enjoy reading anything related to the First or Second World War as they were my faviourite topics to study when I was a history student. I'm also old enough to remember Woolworths (obviously not when this book was written, but before they closed down) and I used to enjoy going in the shop with my mum.
I enjoyed this book and all of the characters had their own things to deal with in the war, but it all came together.
I will definitely consider reading the rest of the books in the series (in order this time).
March 6, 2021
This book is the third in the series and my favourite yet.. I have loved following the friendships and traumas these ladies have at wartime. Friendship is the strongest theme through the series and this opitomizes then all.
May 10, 2018
Loved 'll series of these books easy to read and couldn't put the book down hope there is another book to follow
May 11, 2018
Life continues!
It made me laugh and cry, another year in the lives of the Woolies girls! How times have changed since the war. Hopefully there will be another instalment!
It made me laugh and cry, another year in the lives of the Woolies girls! How times have changed since the war. Hopefully there will be another instalment!
July 14, 2021
Found this for my mum in the charity shop. We usually share books , so I gave this a go.
Good strong female characters , friendship is the main thing that is highlighted in this book .
Good strong female characters , friendship is the main thing that is highlighted in this book .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2022
Absolutely brilliant. Loving this series so far .
May 20, 2018
http://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/2018/0...
I have to say I do enjoy Elaine Everest’s prologues. They always end on a cliffhanger and in the back of my mind this time I was wondering well were they? Or weren’t they? Surely Elaine wouldn’t do that to those characters …
In Wartime at Woolworths there’s a re-emergence of an unsavoury character, a new couple on the street with something to hide, the return of a family member and an escape that although was tense, had me chuckling. Good old Ruby and her ideas 🙂 And of course there’s the hardship and stress for Betty managing Woolworths during the war.
The Woolworths novels are like stepping back into a circle of friends and family who are the community that hold you up when you need it and are authentic when they celebrate your successes with you. And I can tell you there are plenty of moments for our characters on both ends of the emotional spectrum. You can imagine for yourself the type of conflict there might be for a community during WWII, add into the mix how easily it is to invest emotionally in these characters and bam! you’re tense and anxious, waiting to hear, or a jumble of nerves as you’re at the event yourself (there are a few poignant scenes – hand up, I sobbed a couple of times). There’s a good balance of celebrations too though. Times to laugh together, milestones to celebrate together and excitement with the expectation of what’s to come.
There was some nostalgia for me this time – the songs that are sung are the ones I remember my dad singing and I could hear him so clearly. He was an East End lad too.
The story ends on Christmas Eve 1944 – a day that will be remembered in this community with a mixture of feelings … sadness but also a sign that brings happiness and a message of the hope that’s to come. I can’t wait to see what Elaine Everest has in store for us next!
You don’t have to read the other novels in the series to enjoy Wartime at Woolworths as there is enough backstory for you to follow the storylines however, your experience would be so much the richer if you do.
I have to say I do enjoy Elaine Everest’s prologues. They always end on a cliffhanger and in the back of my mind this time I was wondering well were they? Or weren’t they? Surely Elaine wouldn’t do that to those characters …
In Wartime at Woolworths there’s a re-emergence of an unsavoury character, a new couple on the street with something to hide, the return of a family member and an escape that although was tense, had me chuckling. Good old Ruby and her ideas 🙂 And of course there’s the hardship and stress for Betty managing Woolworths during the war.
The Woolworths novels are like stepping back into a circle of friends and family who are the community that hold you up when you need it and are authentic when they celebrate your successes with you. And I can tell you there are plenty of moments for our characters on both ends of the emotional spectrum. You can imagine for yourself the type of conflict there might be for a community during WWII, add into the mix how easily it is to invest emotionally in these characters and bam! you’re tense and anxious, waiting to hear, or a jumble of nerves as you’re at the event yourself (there are a few poignant scenes – hand up, I sobbed a couple of times). There’s a good balance of celebrations too though. Times to laugh together, milestones to celebrate together and excitement with the expectation of what’s to come.
There was some nostalgia for me this time – the songs that are sung are the ones I remember my dad singing and I could hear him so clearly. He was an East End lad too.
The story ends on Christmas Eve 1944 – a day that will be remembered in this community with a mixture of feelings … sadness but also a sign that brings happiness and a message of the hope that’s to come. I can’t wait to see what Elaine Everest has in store for us next!
You don’t have to read the other novels in the series to enjoy Wartime at Woolworths as there is enough backstory for you to follow the storylines however, your experience would be so much the richer if you do.
July 30, 2018
Have read all the Woolworths Girls series and really enjoyed them.
February 8, 2019
This is a very heartwarming book despite the backdrop being set in the midst of WWII. If you love books about strong friendship and close-knit communities in the UK, this will be a good book to pickup.
This book is so rich in witty dialogues, and the characters are so charismatic in his/her own unique way that I soon grew quite fond of them. I really enjoyed the easy-going banter and jokes between the characters. I can feel the love and warmth following their story, and I cannot help giggling at a few funny scenes here and there.
Overall, a very entertaining read, there is never a dull moment. I highly recommend it.
Because of this book, I am looking forward to reading the rest of the Woolworths series.
This book is so rich in witty dialogues, and the characters are so charismatic in his/her own unique way that I soon grew quite fond of them. I really enjoyed the easy-going banter and jokes between the characters. I can feel the love and warmth following their story, and I cannot help giggling at a few funny scenes here and there.
Overall, a very entertaining read, there is never a dull moment. I highly recommend it.
Because of this book, I am looking forward to reading the rest of the Woolworths series.
May 15, 2018
Maisie has had her fair share of heartache over the years. Now life is on the up. She is a devoted wife to husband David and loving mother to a beautiful little girl. And at Woolworths, she is a part of a team - a family - who are a joy to work with. When a new member of the woolies staff mentions an old friend is unwell, Maisie is shocked to realise that it is her estranged mother. Bidden by a sudden urgency to make amends and smooth the discord that has shrouded their relationship for years, Maisie departs Erith with friend Freda to find her mother and tie the two halves of her family together. But the war has left Canning Town a changed place. There is destruction every which way she looks. In a sudden turn of events, Maisie finds much more than she thought she would.
Ruby is a warm, sweet-hearted soul whose door is open anytime to friends and family. There, an endless supply of love, help and kindness is always on offer. Ruby gives advice and support with a wisdom she imparts readily. She is always on hand to guide her family whatever the problem. And in a time when war has filched so much from so many, her generosity is in stark contrast to the darkness you only have to walk out the door to see. When neighbour and friend Vera finds her well-ordered life beginning to fray, Ruby takes it upon herself to put it to rights. But to help, she'll first have to persuade Vera to open up and share the secret that has changed things so drastically.
When Freda, a despatch rider for the fire service and junior supervisor at Woolworths, receives a message relating her mother's terrible accident, she rushes back home and back into her old life. But when she arrives, she discovers things have changed in her absence. Her mother lays in hospital, recovering from a vicious attack and with no one to help her and debt piling up in her name, the responsibility falls to Freda to stay and help her mother recuperate. But what about her other family back home? What about the war efforts? What about her work at Woolworths? Freda must decide what to do. Stay or leave.
Wartime at Woolworths is the fourth book in the Woolworth series by Elaine Everest. And Sarah, Maisie, Freda and the gang return to face some of the most heartbreaking and testing challenges so far. Wartime at Woolworths is a heartwarming tale of love, loss, family and friends.
Emotional. Heartwarming. Sweet.
Ruby is a warm, sweet-hearted soul whose door is open anytime to friends and family. There, an endless supply of love, help and kindness is always on offer. Ruby gives advice and support with a wisdom she imparts readily. She is always on hand to guide her family whatever the problem. And in a time when war has filched so much from so many, her generosity is in stark contrast to the darkness you only have to walk out the door to see. When neighbour and friend Vera finds her well-ordered life beginning to fray, Ruby takes it upon herself to put it to rights. But to help, she'll first have to persuade Vera to open up and share the secret that has changed things so drastically.
When Freda, a despatch rider for the fire service and junior supervisor at Woolworths, receives a message relating her mother's terrible accident, she rushes back home and back into her old life. But when she arrives, she discovers things have changed in her absence. Her mother lays in hospital, recovering from a vicious attack and with no one to help her and debt piling up in her name, the responsibility falls to Freda to stay and help her mother recuperate. But what about her other family back home? What about the war efforts? What about her work at Woolworths? Freda must decide what to do. Stay or leave.
Wartime at Woolworths is the fourth book in the Woolworth series by Elaine Everest. And Sarah, Maisie, Freda and the gang return to face some of the most heartbreaking and testing challenges so far. Wartime at Woolworths is a heartwarming tale of love, loss, family and friends.
Emotional. Heartwarming. Sweet.
July 11, 2018
Wonderful Woolworths Novels
All of the Woolworths Novels are Super, I'm
eagerly awaiting the next one, they are very hard to put down. Highly Recommended.
All of the Woolworths Novels are Super, I'm
eagerly awaiting the next one, they are very hard to put down. Highly Recommended.
June 23, 2018
Just love these books. Picking one up is like meeting with old friends. Again I was transported back to wartime Erith and loved every page. Was really sad to finish it. I can’t wait for the next instalment. Mum was bought up in this area and I have bought her them all and they’ll be going out to spain next week!
June 22, 2018
Thank for the memories
An enjoyable and entertaining story of hardships and struggles during the war brings back happy memories of the Woolworth empire roll on the next one 0
An enjoyable and entertaining story of hardships and struggles during the war brings back happy memories of the Woolworth empire roll on the next one 0
May 30, 2018
Fantastic
Another fantastic book, kept me gripped from beginning to end. All our favourite characters are there struggling to have a normal life during the war years. The war is coming to an end though so happier times ahead. I really hope there will be another Woolworths book in the future, they are brilliant.
Another fantastic book, kept me gripped from beginning to end. All our favourite characters are there struggling to have a normal life during the war years. The war is coming to an end though so happier times ahead. I really hope there will be another Woolworths book in the future, they are brilliant.
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