What do you think?
Rate this book
Woolworths #4
A Gift from Woolworths
Will the war be over by Christmas?As the war moves into 1945 the lives of the women of Woolworths continue. When store manager, Betty Billington, announces she is expecting Douglas’s baby her future life is about to change more than she expects.Freda has fallen in love with the handsome Scottish engineer but will it end happily?Maisie loves being a mother and also caring for her two nieces although she still has her own dreams. When her brother appears on the scene he brings unexpected danger to the family.Meanwhile Sarah dreams of her husband’s return and a cottage with roses around the door but Woolworths beckons.Will our girls sail into times of peace, or will they experience more heartache and sorrow? With a wedding on the horizon, surely only happiness lies ahead – or does it?A Gift from Woolworths is the fourth instalment in Elaine Everest's much-loved Woolworths series.
401 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2018
78 people are currently reading
291 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
March 29, 2021
This was my first introduction to the Woolworths crew. I was unaware this was book 4 in a series so it took me a little bit to work out who was who and how they fitted to the story. The time is 1945. and the book starts with a prologue from December 1945, before slipping back to February and the months and events that lead up to that December. Once I had the characters straight in my mind, I settled in happily with Betty, Maisie, Freda, Sarah, Ruby and their respective family situations, their dreams and hopes.
For some the dream is to keep working. For others to just take care of and enjoy their children. The attitudes towards women working particularly when they are married or start a family is strongly brought out. Nowhere is this attitude more obvious than in the appointment of Cecil Porter, who has been designated the take over from Betty as manager of the Woolworths store once Betty leaves to have her baby. And then there is a secret over one of the other men? What does that mean for Freda?
This is a charming read with well developed characters. Ruby is an especially lovely character. The male characters are also well drawn and mostly likable. An entertaining read with some unexpected dramatic moments, some sadness and moments of humour. This was my first book by this author and I would be interested to read others by her. I liked the setting and the way people had to adapt after the war to rationing and changed lifestyles.And of course the celebrations that ensued when the war ended. It all felt like I was there sharing the times with these people. A recommended read, but probably even better if you can start from book 1 and get to know the characters first.
For some the dream is to keep working. For others to just take care of and enjoy their children. The attitudes towards women working particularly when they are married or start a family is strongly brought out. Nowhere is this attitude more obvious than in the appointment of Cecil Porter, who has been designated the take over from Betty as manager of the Woolworths store once Betty leaves to have her baby. And then there is a secret over one of the other men? What does that mean for Freda?
This is a charming read with well developed characters. Ruby is an especially lovely character. The male characters are also well drawn and mostly likable. An entertaining read with some unexpected dramatic moments, some sadness and moments of humour. This was my first book by this author and I would be interested to read others by her. I liked the setting and the way people had to adapt after the war to rationing and changed lifestyles.And of course the celebrations that ensued when the war ended. It all felt like I was there sharing the times with these people. A recommended read, but probably even better if you can start from book 1 and get to know the characters first.
April 19, 2020
My review on my website www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
This beautiful story brought back my own memories of good old Woolworths. Elaine has published a series of books about Woolworths, The Woolworths Girls, Christmas at Woolworths, Wartime at Woolworths and now A Gift from Woolworths. I was very surprised at how long Woolworths had actually been going for until it closed and I was equally surprised that in this story the Woolworths branch in Erith in December 1945 had marks where of crisscross sticky tape that had covered the glass to save the windows from the blast of exploding bombs. Not only does The People’s Friend recommended A Gift from Woolworths, but I do too as its definitely a feel good festive novel, with well loved characters, Betty Billington, Mais. What’s to look forward to is baby news, and a wedding. I wonder what’s next in store for author Elaine Everest.
This beautiful story brought back my own memories of good old Woolworths. Elaine has published a series of books about Woolworths, The Woolworths Girls, Christmas at Woolworths, Wartime at Woolworths and now A Gift from Woolworths. I was very surprised at how long Woolworths had actually been going for until it closed and I was equally surprised that in this story the Woolworths branch in Erith in December 1945 had marks where of crisscross sticky tape that had covered the glass to save the windows from the blast of exploding bombs. Not only does The People’s Friend recommended A Gift from Woolworths, but I do too as its definitely a feel good festive novel, with well loved characters, Betty Billington, Mais. What’s to look forward to is baby news, and a wedding. I wonder what’s next in store for author Elaine Everest.
October 22, 2018
Well, this has probably been my most ‘untypically me’ book to have read since started reviewing my books a couple of years ago
The book caught my eye in a discussion on a Facebook group and also as I had worked at Woolies at one time ( in the top 75 singles dept! ) I decided to give it a go, it cant all be psychological dramasI thought!!
Its best to mention this is book 5 in a series but stands alone well and you are introduced to all of the characters and given back stories on them as and when needed ( but not pages and pages, just what you need to work out who is who etc ) there is a VAST array of characters who are all linked by family or neighbourhood or working in Woolies, all colorful and ‘created a pic in my mind’ straight away
We join the series as the war is drawing to an end but rations are still in force and life is less than easy for the ‘cast’, I loved the descriptions of Erith and their lives ( good and bad times ) in this time and got a real feel for how life, and Woolworths would have been.....then the War ends and the Country celebrates and you could feel the relief and optimism through the characters and the thrill of new beginnings...all this set in a story of love, weddings, betrayal, spies!, parties inc a V.E. Day street party, births and deaths and of course at the heart of all this is Woolworths and the workings of the Erith branch it made me wish for Woolies to still be with us when reading about it.....( in the authors notes and letter at the end there is a bit about the online Woolworths museum which is deffo worth a look )
I loved the cosy and welcoming feel of the writing and the character descriptions were spot on
A lovely book and a surprise for me to discover
Based on what the author was trying to achieve with this book it has to be a 10/10 and 5 stars
November 9, 2018
A lovely story of life and work at Woolworths of the friendships made and how they coped during the war years.I have loved following the girls through their Woolworth days the highs and lows.Elaine Everest has given me a set of books that i can and will read again as we know all good things come to an end but i look forward to her next book.Thank you Elaine for the memories of my childhood shopping in Woolworths.
November 27, 2018
This is such a brilliant read once again from Elaine Everest, not only does she tell the story of all these wonderful characters once again in her book, but you feel yourself living the story with them. You just fall in love with the usual characters, Sarah, Betty, Maisie, Freda, Ruby and Maureen and of course the lovely men it David, George, Alan, Douglas and Bob. There was a little intrigue in the book with the character of Sandy! I will leave the story there as it is a must read for anyone, who has read the rest of the Woolworth series. Or if you have not read any of these books, a suggestion from me is for you to read them. It would be lovely for another book of the after lives of the people in this book after the war and when they have started their new ventures.
So it's another well done from Elaine Everest and look forward to reading her next book! The Tea Shop Girls. So I give this book A GIFT FROM WOOLWORTHS FIVE MASSIVE STARS.
So it's another well done from Elaine Everest and look forward to reading her next book! The Tea Shop Girls. So I give this book A GIFT FROM WOOLWORTHS FIVE MASSIVE STARS.
January 18, 2019
Woolworths
In hoping there will be another book about the girls they feel like friends and I would love to see where there life's take them 5 STARS for another fabulous read .
In hoping there will be another book about the girls they feel like friends and I would love to see where there life's take them 5 STARS for another fabulous read .
October 30, 2018
I have been a fan of Elaine’s books since I picked up the first book in the Woolworths series called ‘The Woolworths Girls’, which was released in May 2016. I very patiently, oh ok make that impatiently wait for each new book in the series to be released. The latest book in the series is called ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ and it is due for release on the 1st November 2018. Wowzers, it’s one heck of a fabulous read and I adored it but more about that in a bit.
Whenever I pick up a new book in the Woolworths series, I really do feel as though I am reuniting with old friends. It doesn’t take me long at all to feel as though I am one of the gang. It seems unfair to single out any character for further analysis but on this occasion I have to say that I really, really felt for the character of Sarah at the beginning of the book. Bless her, she is still mourning the loss of her mother, who was killed by a V2 rocket in another branch of Woolworths. Not only has Sarah had to deal with that but she has also had to deal with the fact that her husband is away serving in the Royal Air Force and naturally she worries about him. If that isn’t enough the beginning of the book sees her experiencing a difficult labour with her second child. Talk about piling stress upon stress upon stress. Sarah’s first child was born after a fairly quick labour and Sarah is worrying about the possibility of her second child dying before it has even had a chance at life. There were several occasions where I just wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to give her a huge hug. Thankfully Sarah has many friends and beloved family members around her and they step up to the mark for her.
The ‘Woolworths Girls’ series appeals to me in a few different ways. Firstly I absolutely adore family sagas, even if I do end up in a fight with a pensioner. Let me explain – Mrs. Ginger Book Geek is a huge fan of sagas too and if she finds a series that she likes, she mugs me for the chance to read each new book in the series before I do. These OAPs can be pretty vicious. I end up losing every time but anything to keep the peace. Lol. Secondly my late father worked for Woolworths, when he was a teenager and he often used to tell me stories about when he worked there, so to read the ‘Woolworths Girls’ series reminds me of him. Thirdly, I miss the Woolworths shop that we had in our local town and I often feel nostalgic for it- or more specifically for the Pick & Mix department.
As I mentioned above, ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ is a seriously good read. I was literally hooked from the first word on the first page and I absorbed myself into the story. The characters and the storylines seemed very realistic indeed. At the beginning of the book, I was all for jumping inside the pages of the book to kick a certain character down the stairs after the arrogant way in which he treated one of the ‘Woolworths Girls’ or not as the case was. I was all for booting him out on his ear. I then had to remind myself that the book is fiction even though it seemed ‘real’ to me. Reading ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ became exceedingly addictive. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but that intention soon went out of the window because I was enjoying the book that much that I just couldn’t put it down. ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it came everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to be parted from the book and if I had to put the book down, then I was counting the time down until the time I could pick it back up again. I begrudged having to take my two Labradors out, which didn’t go down well and they tried all ways to disrupt my concentration. Reading ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ really did take me through a wealth of emotions from happiness to sadness, joy to despair and well you get the picture. I felt as though I had been on an emotional rollercoaster ride by the time I closed the back cover of the book.
In short, I absolutely ADORED reading this latest instalment of the ‘Woolworths Girls’ series and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. This is the fourth book in the series but it can easily be read as a standalone. I can guarantee that you will enjoy reading this book so much that you will have to read the other three in the series. ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ is sure to be a huge hit and will certainly be appearing on the bestseller lists. The score on the Ginger Book Geek boar dis a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
Whenever I pick up a new book in the Woolworths series, I really do feel as though I am reuniting with old friends. It doesn’t take me long at all to feel as though I am one of the gang. It seems unfair to single out any character for further analysis but on this occasion I have to say that I really, really felt for the character of Sarah at the beginning of the book. Bless her, she is still mourning the loss of her mother, who was killed by a V2 rocket in another branch of Woolworths. Not only has Sarah had to deal with that but she has also had to deal with the fact that her husband is away serving in the Royal Air Force and naturally she worries about him. If that isn’t enough the beginning of the book sees her experiencing a difficult labour with her second child. Talk about piling stress upon stress upon stress. Sarah’s first child was born after a fairly quick labour and Sarah is worrying about the possibility of her second child dying before it has even had a chance at life. There were several occasions where I just wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to give her a huge hug. Thankfully Sarah has many friends and beloved family members around her and they step up to the mark for her.
The ‘Woolworths Girls’ series appeals to me in a few different ways. Firstly I absolutely adore family sagas, even if I do end up in a fight with a pensioner. Let me explain – Mrs. Ginger Book Geek is a huge fan of sagas too and if she finds a series that she likes, she mugs me for the chance to read each new book in the series before I do. These OAPs can be pretty vicious. I end up losing every time but anything to keep the peace. Lol. Secondly my late father worked for Woolworths, when he was a teenager and he often used to tell me stories about when he worked there, so to read the ‘Woolworths Girls’ series reminds me of him. Thirdly, I miss the Woolworths shop that we had in our local town and I often feel nostalgic for it- or more specifically for the Pick & Mix department.
As I mentioned above, ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ is a seriously good read. I was literally hooked from the first word on the first page and I absorbed myself into the story. The characters and the storylines seemed very realistic indeed. At the beginning of the book, I was all for jumping inside the pages of the book to kick a certain character down the stairs after the arrogant way in which he treated one of the ‘Woolworths Girls’ or not as the case was. I was all for booting him out on his ear. I then had to remind myself that the book is fiction even though it seemed ‘real’ to me. Reading ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ became exceedingly addictive. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but that intention soon went out of the window because I was enjoying the book that much that I just couldn’t put it down. ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it came everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to be parted from the book and if I had to put the book down, then I was counting the time down until the time I could pick it back up again. I begrudged having to take my two Labradors out, which didn’t go down well and they tried all ways to disrupt my concentration. Reading ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ really did take me through a wealth of emotions from happiness to sadness, joy to despair and well you get the picture. I felt as though I had been on an emotional rollercoaster ride by the time I closed the back cover of the book.
In short, I absolutely ADORED reading this latest instalment of the ‘Woolworths Girls’ series and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. This is the fourth book in the series but it can easily be read as a standalone. I can guarantee that you will enjoy reading this book so much that you will have to read the other three in the series. ‘A Gift From Woolworths’ is sure to be a huge hit and will certainly be appearing on the bestseller lists. The score on the Ginger Book Geek boar dis a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
November 2, 2018
Well, what a dilemma. Half of me rushing through the book desperate to know what happens next, the other half wanting to savour it slowly, not wanting it to end. With each Woolworths book, Elaine Everest seems to grow into her characters, knowing them so well that we the readers come to know and love them a little bit more too. This is perhaps her best book yet, and so much more than an ordinary wartime saga. Here we find intrigue and crime, love, friendship and tragedy, worries about work and a real sense of hope for the future as the war draws to a close. All the regular characters are here again - down to earth Maisie, devoted but dreamy Sarah, young Freda, capable boss Betty, and nan Ruby who everyone can rely on in a crisis - but Elaine always throws a few new ones into the mix. Look out for new love interest Sandy and the idle and unpleasant Cecil, both of whom bring some added twists to the story. But with the war over and big changes both in the girls' home lives and at the Woolworths store, is this really the last we will see of the girls as Elaine moves on to writing her new Teashop series? I really hope not. Like real-life friends I am so going to miss these girls now they are gone!
October 23, 2018
A Gift from Woolworths is a gift from the wonderful Elaine Everest.
As the 5th and (so far? last of the Woolworth novels from this author, we are left with a fitting final chapter to the story of Betty, Freda, Maisie, Sarah and all the ensemble cast. Though possible to read as a stand alone, it's no less enjoyable for that, this is a series that asks to be read in order.
This Wonder of Woolies (yes, I had to get that in here somewhere) is a book that's full of wonderful characters, searingly tense situations and scenes that will have you crying. Showing the skill of an author who will be long-followed, this is a book that should be devoured with relish, or a bar of your favourite chocolate.
Want to know something about the story? You'll find that elsewhere. Suffice to say, I enjoyed this novel so much and for one, hope that the author decides to revisit these characters.
If any modern series I have read are worthy of remembering, then this is. In fact, if TV is looking for a replacement for the much missed Foyles War, they couldn't go much wrong than turn this into a mini-series, I rate it that highly!
As the 5th and (so far? last of the Woolworth novels from this author, we are left with a fitting final chapter to the story of Betty, Freda, Maisie, Sarah and all the ensemble cast. Though possible to read as a stand alone, it's no less enjoyable for that, this is a series that asks to be read in order.
This Wonder of Woolies (yes, I had to get that in here somewhere) is a book that's full of wonderful characters, searingly tense situations and scenes that will have you crying. Showing the skill of an author who will be long-followed, this is a book that should be devoured with relish, or a bar of your favourite chocolate.
Want to know something about the story? You'll find that elsewhere. Suffice to say, I enjoyed this novel so much and for one, hope that the author decides to revisit these characters.
If any modern series I have read are worthy of remembering, then this is. In fact, if TV is looking for a replacement for the much missed Foyles War, they couldn't go much wrong than turn this into a mini-series, I rate it that highly!
December 3, 2018
I was looking forward to reading the next book in the series and didn't disappoint me at all was very heartwarming and about friendship and families and love so good didn't want it to end. A very warm read and easy read to.
It's 1945 and the women of woolworths continue. Betty the store manager says she's expecting a baby and life will change for her. Freda has fallen in love but will it last and be happy ever ever. Maisie is loving being a mother and also looking after her two neices but with her brother on the scene will things change for them feel for them. Sarah longs her husbands return but how will it go with woolworths. Will the girls be happy or suffer more heartbreak but there is a wedding coming up so can they be happy.
A great read.
It's 1945 and the women of woolworths continue. Betty the store manager says she's expecting a baby and life will change for her. Freda has fallen in love but will it last and be happy ever ever. Maisie is loving being a mother and also looking after her two neices but with her brother on the scene will things change for them feel for them. Sarah longs her husbands return but how will it go with woolworths. Will the girls be happy or suffer more heartbreak but there is a wedding coming up so can they be happy.
A great read.
November 8, 2018
It's 1945 and with the end of the war in sight, there are profound changes ahead. The Woolworths' girls are back but there is doubt about their jobs once the men return from war. The risk to their jobs, however, pales into insignificance compared to the problems they each face in their daily lives. I really enjoyed catching up with the characters and wondering if their hopes and wishes would be realised. There is drama and high tension, emotion, happiness, sadness and romance. Not everything will turn out as you might expect but Elaine Everest will have you turning the pages to find out the next chapter in their lives.
November 6, 2018
Great read
Loved catching up with the girls from Woolworths as we come to the end of WW2. There friendship has stood the test of time and I feel as if they are my friends. I do hope we might get another book as would love to know what happens with Freda and if Maisie s business takes off.
Loved catching up with the girls from Woolworths as we come to the end of WW2. There friendship has stood the test of time and I feel as if they are my friends. I do hope we might get another book as would love to know what happens with Freda and if Maisie s business takes off.
March 2, 2019
Another great read from Elaine Everest loved the Woolworths series following all the characters who work and live in erith in ww2 I’m sad it’s at the end please write another one x
July 21, 2022
Another absolutely brilliant book in this series.
November 17, 2018
Friendly memories of a much missed shop, mixed wartime experiences, and a group of tremendously engaging people are all ingredients of a most enjoyable novel. Elaine Everest has repeated her successful formula to produce a lovely book, with people that it is easy to feel interested in and even concerned about throughout the book. Confidently handled and with a clearly developed narrative, this is a saga which delivers on the promise of earlier books in the series. Trauma, grief, and dislike of certain new characters contrasts sharply with those characters that we have been keen to follow through several years of development so far. This could also be enjoyed as a standalone novel which goes far beyond the Christmas feel given to the title and cover. It could truly be enjoyed at any time of the year, as the vast majority of the book deals more with a wedding, marriages challenged and work attempted. This is a novel set during 1945, so this a tricky time when the end of the War seems possible, but still far off as regards the danger to loved ones. I was really pleased to be given the opportunity to read this book as part of a blog tour, and eager to review it here.
This book opens with a Prologue in set in December 1945, and features Betty, a much loved character in the series. Despite how the previous book finished, with her seemingly living an ideal life at last, in this brief section she seems distracted and discontented. It will take most of the novel to find out why, and what happens to her and those she most loves. As the book begins properly in February 1945, Sarah is in labour with a baby and struggling. As her friends Maisie, mother in law Maureen and others gather to help, there is a gentle reminder of what has happened to some characters during the preceding books. Ruby, Sarah’s grandmother, is very present as she prepares for her special day promised for so long. As the last air raid warnings sound and bombs fall, the cast of characters realise that there are still dangers to themselves and their loved ones. There is bravery and loss still to contend with as the last few months of the War proceed, as the much loved children of various characters play and grow and demand attention. The mark of a good book is that the reader almost audibly cheers, sighs and generally reacts strongly when the cruel or nasty characters are dealt with, especially when achieved as cleverly as here. A cheating man is humiliated, a thoroughly dislikeable character comprehensively dealt with as part of a joint effort, and justice is meted out. Someone who threatens part of Maisie’s family appears, and cannot easily dismissed, and as may be predicted there is at least one birth which will cause problems. Alongside all the challenges and joys, difficulties and misunderstandings, Woolworths is a character, with all the demands of selling rare everyday goods to be met.
This is a clever book, which shows so well the skills of writing really engaging stories and well worked out themes. Every character, however minor, is rounded and developed, consistently drawn and identified. I really enjoyed this book, which in a way is a quick read, but one which I was not eager to finish as I was enjoying it so much. I can thoroughly recommend this as a book to lap up at any time, but which seems particularly suited to this time of year.
This book opens with a Prologue in set in December 1945, and features Betty, a much loved character in the series. Despite how the previous book finished, with her seemingly living an ideal life at last, in this brief section she seems distracted and discontented. It will take most of the novel to find out why, and what happens to her and those she most loves. As the book begins properly in February 1945, Sarah is in labour with a baby and struggling. As her friends Maisie, mother in law Maureen and others gather to help, there is a gentle reminder of what has happened to some characters during the preceding books. Ruby, Sarah’s grandmother, is very present as she prepares for her special day promised for so long. As the last air raid warnings sound and bombs fall, the cast of characters realise that there are still dangers to themselves and their loved ones. There is bravery and loss still to contend with as the last few months of the War proceed, as the much loved children of various characters play and grow and demand attention. The mark of a good book is that the reader almost audibly cheers, sighs and generally reacts strongly when the cruel or nasty characters are dealt with, especially when achieved as cleverly as here. A cheating man is humiliated, a thoroughly dislikeable character comprehensively dealt with as part of a joint effort, and justice is meted out. Someone who threatens part of Maisie’s family appears, and cannot easily dismissed, and as may be predicted there is at least one birth which will cause problems. Alongside all the challenges and joys, difficulties and misunderstandings, Woolworths is a character, with all the demands of selling rare everyday goods to be met.
This is a clever book, which shows so well the skills of writing really engaging stories and well worked out themes. Every character, however minor, is rounded and developed, consistently drawn and identified. I really enjoyed this book, which in a way is a quick read, but one which I was not eager to finish as I was enjoying it so much. I can thoroughly recommend this as a book to lap up at any time, but which seems particularly suited to this time of year.
January 2, 2024
Elaine has delivered another cracker to The Woolworths Girls series.
We are back with Sarah, Maisie, Freda and Betty, who have had their fair share of tears, but with a friendship like theirs, you know you'll always have a shoulder to cry on and open arms to fall into.
Betty has everything she's ever dreamed of, but can she ever be happy with that?
Freda has fallen in love with Sandy. Is he the man for her?
Nana Ruby, what a lovely and heartwarming woman. No matter what the war brings, you can always rely on Ruby to make everything all ok again.
Sarah has her dreams, but will she succeed in making them come true?
Nelson! Oh my heart. 😭 But those pups saw my heart bursting with joy.
A gift from Woolworths was definitely the warm hug I needed and to be back with friends, has really got me in the spirit of Christmas.
If you want a nostalgic read, then this is the book for you. I can highly recommend this book and its companions - The Woolworths girls, Carols at Woolworths (ebook novella), Christmas at Woolworths and Wartime at Woolworths. These are books worth bragging about.
We are back with Sarah, Maisie, Freda and Betty, who have had their fair share of tears, but with a friendship like theirs, you know you'll always have a shoulder to cry on and open arms to fall into.
Betty has everything she's ever dreamed of, but can she ever be happy with that?
Freda has fallen in love with Sandy. Is he the man for her?
Nana Ruby, what a lovely and heartwarming woman. No matter what the war brings, you can always rely on Ruby to make everything all ok again.
Sarah has her dreams, but will she succeed in making them come true?
Nelson! Oh my heart. 😭 But those pups saw my heart bursting with joy.
A gift from Woolworths was definitely the warm hug I needed and to be back with friends, has really got me in the spirit of Christmas.
If you want a nostalgic read, then this is the book for you. I can highly recommend this book and its companions - The Woolworths girls, Carols at Woolworths (ebook novella), Christmas at Woolworths and Wartime at Woolworths. These are books worth bragging about.
May 6, 2021
4 out of 5 stars
Yet again I’ve picked up a book last in the series but I’m pleased to say that it didn’t matter. We start of the book as the Christmas of 1945 when the war has ended and the team at Woolworths are celebrating however the lady who once ran the store Betty isn’t as happy as the rest of them all. We then go back to the February of the same year when war is not yet over but near the end. This book centres around; Betty, Freda, Maisie and Sarah and each of them have very different troubles going on even though on the surface they are all happy. I love the friendship that is the core of this book especially how friends are what holds us up at our weakest as well as celebrating our happy time’s. There also some amazing supporting characters and my favourite is ruby who is Sarah’s nan. Ruby is the best example of women at that time, strong and loveable also moving along with the times. In that way she reminded me of my nan. Yes we have romance in this book but it’s not the core which is what made me fall in love with this book. I would recommend this series and plan to start this again with the first in the series.
Yet again I’ve picked up a book last in the series but I’m pleased to say that it didn’t matter. We start of the book as the Christmas of 1945 when the war has ended and the team at Woolworths are celebrating however the lady who once ran the store Betty isn’t as happy as the rest of them all. We then go back to the February of the same year when war is not yet over but near the end. This book centres around; Betty, Freda, Maisie and Sarah and each of them have very different troubles going on even though on the surface they are all happy. I love the friendship that is the core of this book especially how friends are what holds us up at our weakest as well as celebrating our happy time’s. There also some amazing supporting characters and my favourite is ruby who is Sarah’s nan. Ruby is the best example of women at that time, strong and loveable also moving along with the times. In that way she reminded me of my nan. Yes we have romance in this book but it’s not the core which is what made me fall in love with this book. I would recommend this series and plan to start this again with the first in the series.
December 29, 2018
A fabulous book. Well done Elaine. I truly love all of the characters. Couldn't put the book down.
November 13, 2018
I haven't read any of Elaine Everest's previous books in this series, but I love Call the Midwife, and I thought this might be similar. I was, sadly, disappointed. The emotional moments that work in A Gift from Woolworths are similar in tone to what I love about Call the Midwife — the main characters helping one another out, healing rifts between them, or standing up for their right to do their work — but there are just as many moments that didn't land for me. In some cases, this may be because I had trouble keeping the characters and their relationships straight (something I imagine readers with the four previous books under their belts would manage better), but even characters introduced for the first time in this novel managed to leave me cold.
What I most enjoyed about A Gift from Woolworths was the exploration of the gender dynamics, particularly around women working. It was honestly just sad to see the lengths the female characters would go to in order to ensure their male friends and partners wouldn't feel jealous of their success. While this was almost certainly accurate to the period, I did struggle to sympathise with some of the men as a result.
Elaine Everest managed moments of genuine humour, and at least one thrill late in the story. I think my lack of investment in the characters really hindered my enjoyment, especially as this was written to be a 'goodbye' to an established group of friends. 300 pages into the book, I still wasn't sure which one was Sarah. I'd recommend A Gift from Woolworths to people who've already read the first four books in this series, though as I haven't read them, I can't really compare how this measures up.
What I most enjoyed about A Gift from Woolworths was the exploration of the gender dynamics, particularly around women working. It was honestly just sad to see the lengths the female characters would go to in order to ensure their male friends and partners wouldn't feel jealous of their success. While this was almost certainly accurate to the period, I did struggle to sympathise with some of the men as a result.
Elaine Everest managed moments of genuine humour, and at least one thrill late in the story. I think my lack of investment in the characters really hindered my enjoyment, especially as this was written to be a 'goodbye' to an established group of friends. 300 pages into the book, I still wasn't sure which one was Sarah. I'd recommend A Gift from Woolworths to people who've already read the first four books in this series, though as I haven't read them, I can't really compare how this measures up.
November 10, 2019
Elaine Everest (2018) A GIFT FROM WOOLWORTHS
London. Pan Books
🎅🎅🎅 3 out of 5 Santas
The sleeve reads, "Will the war be over by Christmas? As the war moves into 1945 the lives of the women of Woolworths continue. When store manager, Betty Billington, announces she is expecting Douglas’s baby her future life is about to change more than she expects. Freda has fallen in love with the handsome Scottish engineer but will it end happily? Maisie loves being a mother and also caring for her two nieces although she still has her own dreams. When her brother appears on the scene he brings unexpected danger to the family. Meanwhile Sarah dreams of her husband’s return and a cottage with roses around the door but Woolworths beckons. Will our girls sail into times of peace, or will they experience more heartache and sorrow? With a wedding on the horizon, surely only happiness lies ahead – or does it?"
WWII was way before my time but I was certainly here when Woolworths was around. I remember Christmastime at Woolworths as a kid spending my vouchers numerous relatives had sent as gifts. So, the sense of nostalgia in this book was far from being lost on me. Enjoyed this muchly and only marked it down because I skipped parts.
#ElaineEverest #AGiftFromWoolworths #ElaineEverestAGiftFromWoolworths #Book #Books #Read #Reads #Reading #BookShelf #Library #Christmas #Xmas #MerryChristmas #MerryXmas #HappyChristmas #HappyXmas #HappyHolidays
London. Pan Books
🎅🎅🎅 3 out of 5 Santas
The sleeve reads, "Will the war be over by Christmas? As the war moves into 1945 the lives of the women of Woolworths continue. When store manager, Betty Billington, announces she is expecting Douglas’s baby her future life is about to change more than she expects. Freda has fallen in love with the handsome Scottish engineer but will it end happily? Maisie loves being a mother and also caring for her two nieces although she still has her own dreams. When her brother appears on the scene he brings unexpected danger to the family. Meanwhile Sarah dreams of her husband’s return and a cottage with roses around the door but Woolworths beckons. Will our girls sail into times of peace, or will they experience more heartache and sorrow? With a wedding on the horizon, surely only happiness lies ahead – or does it?"
WWII was way before my time but I was certainly here when Woolworths was around. I remember Christmastime at Woolworths as a kid spending my vouchers numerous relatives had sent as gifts. So, the sense of nostalgia in this book was far from being lost on me. Enjoyed this muchly and only marked it down because I skipped parts.
#ElaineEverest #AGiftFromWoolworths #ElaineEverestAGiftFromWoolworths #Book #Books #Read #Reads #Reading #BookShelf #Library #Christmas #Xmas #MerryChristmas #MerryXmas #HappyChristmas #HappyXmas #HappyHolidays
November 25, 2019
The last in the Woolworths series, it's 1945 and the war is finally coming to an end. The young women who were hired together to work for Woolworths 6 years ago are all grown up, married, and have "kiddies", except for Freida who is still a "kid". There's been a lot of changes, many new characters, and a few less since this series started out.
Elaine Everest really makes it believable with the time period, the relationships between men and woman for starters, how women aren't equals. Men are to be the bread winners, though she certainly added some head strong females in her story: Maisie and Betty who are the perfect role models for sharing light on how that is all a bunch of nonsense.
It does read like a Hallmark story and I'm not one for such wishy washy type of reading, but it works. It's especially fun finding the girls in another predicament, how they are able to trick the person and make everything right again (a few of them are locked in Woolworths canteen and Betty finds herself in labour, or when they are noticing that there is merchandise being stolen from "Woolies"). And of course, because this is the last book, it does finish up with a "Happy Ever After" to basically all the characters, with a "just maybe there might be a next book down the road" from the author.
I will be passing along these books to my Mum the next time I see her. I know she'll enjoy them.
Elaine Everest really makes it believable with the time period, the relationships between men and woman for starters, how women aren't equals. Men are to be the bread winners, though she certainly added some head strong females in her story: Maisie and Betty who are the perfect role models for sharing light on how that is all a bunch of nonsense.
It does read like a Hallmark story and I'm not one for such wishy washy type of reading, but it works. It's especially fun finding the girls in another predicament, how they are able to trick the person and make everything right again (a few of them are locked in Woolworths canteen and Betty finds herself in labour, or when they are noticing that there is merchandise being stolen from "Woolies"). And of course, because this is the last book, it does finish up with a "Happy Ever After" to basically all the characters, with a "just maybe there might be a next book down the road" from the author.
I will be passing along these books to my Mum the next time I see her. I know she'll enjoy them.
March 3, 2022
A Gift from Woolworths is book 4 in the popular series and what I love about these books is that they never dip or wane. Elaine Everest manages to come up with new and interesting storylines for her characters, and there are always new people coming along too to add to the mix.
In this book it's 1945 and it's clear the Second World War is coming to an end. As the year goes on each of the characters has their own cross to bear but as always it's the camaraderie between them all that shines through. With Ruby Caselton at the heart of the extended family, including a fair few who aren't actually related to her but are treated like they are, there's always lots happening.
I loved reading this book. As with the previous books, I raced through it. It was so easy to read but also so lovely and warm. I always enjoy the scenes at Woolworths which feel nostalgic, and I liked how some of the characters, particularly the men returning home from the war, started to branch out in new directions.
Up next is book 5 and I'm sure it will be just as fabulous as this one and the previous books in the series. If you like sagas and historical fiction and you haven't read this series yet then I heartily recommend it. I'm really loving my time with the Woolworths gang.
In this book it's 1945 and it's clear the Second World War is coming to an end. As the year goes on each of the characters has their own cross to bear but as always it's the camaraderie between them all that shines through. With Ruby Caselton at the heart of the extended family, including a fair few who aren't actually related to her but are treated like they are, there's always lots happening.
I loved reading this book. As with the previous books, I raced through it. It was so easy to read but also so lovely and warm. I always enjoy the scenes at Woolworths which feel nostalgic, and I liked how some of the characters, particularly the men returning home from the war, started to branch out in new directions.
Up next is book 5 and I'm sure it will be just as fabulous as this one and the previous books in the series. If you like sagas and historical fiction and you haven't read this series yet then I heartily recommend it. I'm really loving my time with the Woolworths gang.
November 13, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I thought that the book was fantastic – just a brilliant story and I loved catching back up with the Woolworths Girls – they are some of my favourite characters!
This is part of a series but it is fine to read as a stand alone and can see it being loved by young and old alike – it has some excellent characters and a great plot line.
The writing style is very good and I loved the flow the author achieved with the story. She is perfectly suited to this genre! I have read a few of her books now and have loved every one.
Five stars from me, a fabulous story and very highly recommended!!
I thought that the book was fantastic – just a brilliant story and I loved catching back up with the Woolworths Girls – they are some of my favourite characters!
This is part of a series but it is fine to read as a stand alone and can see it being loved by young and old alike – it has some excellent characters and a great plot line.
The writing style is very good and I loved the flow the author achieved with the story. She is perfectly suited to this genre! I have read a few of her books now and have loved every one.
Five stars from me, a fabulous story and very highly recommended!!
February 3, 2019
This was a lovely story about families in the Kent town of Erith at the end of the second world war. It was a tale of communities struggling with work, family and similar issues. What was particularly refreshing about this book was its lack of bad language and sex but simply a good family story based around the Woolworths store and a group of women - Betty, Freda, Sarah, Maisie and Maureen who work together in the store. The Woolworth store background too tugs at the heart strings with nostalgia for those of us who remember its heyday. There are other tales in the 'Woolworth' collection but this tale is so well written it can be read on its own without the others, although reading the series would give you a sense of these ladies stories across the years. Recommended.
December 30, 2019
It was so lovely to catch up with the Woolworths girls again, as always we hear the shenanigans of the girls and other characters and are even introduced to some new ones along the way.
We have now moved to the end of the war and the fate of the Erith store hangs in the balance as a pregnant Betty is now sacked in favour of the devious Cecil Porter.
Sarah is sad to be missing out on family life working so many hours to make ends meet, Ruby and Bob make plans to wed, Maisie is trying to juggle a work / life balance until her husband David is injured and Freda at last falls in love but things are not all they seem...
This instalment is jam packed with happenings and I can't wait to see what happens next.
We have now moved to the end of the war and the fate of the Erith store hangs in the balance as a pregnant Betty is now sacked in favour of the devious Cecil Porter.
Sarah is sad to be missing out on family life working so many hours to make ends meet, Ruby and Bob make plans to wed, Maisie is trying to juggle a work / life balance until her husband David is injured and Freda at last falls in love but things are not all they seem...
This instalment is jam packed with happenings and I can't wait to see what happens next.
November 29, 2018
Started and finished in 24 hours in between work! Not a lot of sleep! But wow! It was like welcoming home old friends. How sad I was to finish. So well written, funny and emotional with an excellent storyline that included many twists and turns. I really hope the saga continues as I’d love to carry on with these gorgeous characters and find out what the war-less future holds for them. It really didn’t disappoint. If you are a Harry Bowling or Josephine Cox fan, or if you like just truly lovely fiction, these books are for you! But please start at the Woolworths girls so you can enjoy the ride xx
February 29, 2020
Hubby bought me this book for Christmas, not realizing it was part of a series. I honestly didn't even notice either until I got to the end of the book.
I think maybe if I had started on book one I would have thought this was a great conclusion to the series. But not having read the previous books, as its own story, it was okay. Writing was fine, but very British dialog and I'm not British so I found some of it bothersome. Not major, though. I liked the characters enough. It would make a fairly decent tv show or drama mini series.
I think maybe if I had started on book one I would have thought this was a great conclusion to the series. But not having read the previous books, as its own story, it was okay. Writing was fine, but very British dialog and I'm not British so I found some of it bothersome. Not major, though. I liked the characters enough. It would make a fairly decent tv show or drama mini series.
April 17, 2022
Woolworths a store that's missed
Yes a store on the high street but what goes on behind the scenes a family of staff sometimes the jigsaw misses pieces but Sarah and crew betty at the helm seem to make it fit through bad times and good they remain strong love to have tea and cakes in there staff room do miss Woolworths as a child wandering around with my pocket money on the wooden floor pick and mix my favourite
Yes a store on the high street but what goes on behind the scenes a family of staff sometimes the jigsaw misses pieces but Sarah and crew betty at the helm seem to make it fit through bad times and good they remain strong love to have tea and cakes in there staff room do miss Woolworths as a child wandering around with my pocket money on the wooden floor pick and mix my favourite
July 30, 2022
What a wonderful story! Women having to go to work at a beloved store plus on the home front while husband went to fight for Jolly Old England. They had to put food on the table and pay the rent. Grandparents and stay at home mothers (friends or family) baby sat the children. Mothers could talk about mature topics with co-workers. It was an era where people and female friends cared about each other enduring six dismal dark years of war.
December 19, 2018
I have really enjoyed all the Woolworths Girls books and this one didn't disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn't put it down.
It was lovely to reconnect with all the old characters from the earlier books.
I was sad to finish this book. I would love for there to be another book in the future.
It was lovely to reconnect with all the old characters from the earlier books.
I was sad to finish this book. I would love for there to be another book in the future.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews