What do you think?
Rate this book
Queenie
Pre-order the explosive new novel from the Sunday Times No.1 bestseller
SHE WAS MADE IN THE EAST END . . .
For young Queenie, life in the backstreets of Whitechapel was a lesson in survival – Hitler’s bombs hit those with nothing the hardest. When danger strikes close to home, Queenie finds an ally in Mrs O’Leary, whose two sons are the kingpins of the East End. But while the O’Learys are the light in Queenie’s life, fate has a different path in store.
AND MEN ARE WHAT THEIR MOTHERS MAKE THEM . . .
Now married to the useless Albie Butler, Queenie is raising her children to fight their own battles. If the O’Learys taught her anything, it was that surviving meant doing whatever you had to, no questions asked, and family always comes first. The Butler boys will make sure their mother’s name becomes East End legend.
MEET QUEENIE.
THIS IS HER STORY.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2020
512 people are currently reading
698 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews
February 1, 2020
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I find it particularly difficult to write a review for a book and an author that I absolutely love - there’s always the nagging doubt that I won’t be able to do it justice - but here goes anyway.
For fans of Kimberly Chambers Butler family, we discover how Queenie became the woman she is today - the experiences that moulded her thoughts and actions, and most importantly, how she ended up being matriarch of this much feared (though respected) gangland family.
We join 12 year old Queenie in 1939, just as WW11 is about to bring terror to the inhabitants of the East End, when London was bombed every day and night bar one, for 11 weeks, but far from breaking this community, it brought them closer together, and they were determined to show Hitler just where he could stick his bombs!
The story follows Queenie up to the 1960’s, and tells us how she ends up marrying Albie, and her determination, when her kids come along, to instil within them the belief that they can be anything they want to be, but her first born Vinnie takes it quite literally - he wants to be king of the East End, and nothing will interfere with his plans - this is one dodgy and violent character, and even though Queenie acknowledges his faults, she loves him regardless.
I won’t give anything away as it’s such a terrific read (and can actually be read as a stand-alone), but there are plenty of shocks in store, and if you want an East End stripped of its onion skins, meet its villains, and its high and low life, then I can’t recommend Queenie enough! The characters are so well drawn, and the storyline is gritty and gripping.
I saw Kimberly Chambers being interviewed just this week on the BBC, and she’s so down to earth, not to mention amusing, and this certainly transfers to her books, along with an incredible gift for writing. If you haven’t read any of her books, then you’re really missing a treat!
*I was invited to read this by the publisher and have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
I find it particularly difficult to write a review for a book and an author that I absolutely love - there’s always the nagging doubt that I won’t be able to do it justice - but here goes anyway.
For fans of Kimberly Chambers Butler family, we discover how Queenie became the woman she is today - the experiences that moulded her thoughts and actions, and most importantly, how she ended up being matriarch of this much feared (though respected) gangland family.
We join 12 year old Queenie in 1939, just as WW11 is about to bring terror to the inhabitants of the East End, when London was bombed every day and night bar one, for 11 weeks, but far from breaking this community, it brought them closer together, and they were determined to show Hitler just where he could stick his bombs!
The story follows Queenie up to the 1960’s, and tells us how she ends up marrying Albie, and her determination, when her kids come along, to instil within them the belief that they can be anything they want to be, but her first born Vinnie takes it quite literally - he wants to be king of the East End, and nothing will interfere with his plans - this is one dodgy and violent character, and even though Queenie acknowledges his faults, she loves him regardless.
I won’t give anything away as it’s such a terrific read (and can actually be read as a stand-alone), but there are plenty of shocks in store, and if you want an East End stripped of its onion skins, meet its villains, and its high and low life, then I can’t recommend Queenie enough! The characters are so well drawn, and the storyline is gritty and gripping.
I saw Kimberly Chambers being interviewed just this week on the BBC, and she’s so down to earth, not to mention amusing, and this certainly transfers to her books, along with an incredible gift for writing. If you haven’t read any of her books, then you’re really missing a treat!
*I was invited to read this by the publisher and have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
January 27, 2020
I will just say that I am glad I started this over the weekend because I have done nothing but "sat on me arse" all day long to finish this. I know it says that the book can be read as a stand-alone but, honestly, I think you are doing yourself a disservice if you don't read the other books by this author, especially the Butler and Mitchell books (where we are first introduced to Queenie).
Not as gritty as the previous books, I thought.
Queenie was definitely wearing blinkers when it came to her kids, especially Vinny! Good God, it brought back all the memories of him in the other books. Such a bollocks, he was ...
We meet Queenie as a young girl, living in the East End, evacuated during the War. All the other characters are there too, Viv and Albie. Life was tough so Queenie had to be tough.
Ain't that the truth.
There was even a character called ...
LOL. Fame, at last!!
We meet some Irish characters. Now, you know me and Irish characters ... usually get a bee in my bonnet about them if they are portrayed incorrectly... but, I must say, she had them down to a feckin' "t"!
Mary O'Leary, bless her!
And yes, the Irish (especially me) do say "feck" and "fecker" a lot of the time... much more civilised than the other "f" word, don't you think?
I probably could drop a star as it didn't have the intensity or the rollercoaster ride of the previous books but, as I did enjoy it and couldn't stop reading it, it gets the full FIVE STARS from me.
Not as gritty as the previous books, I thought.
Queenie was definitely wearing blinkers when it came to her kids, especially Vinny! Good God, it brought back all the memories of him in the other books. Such a bollocks, he was ...
We meet Queenie as a young girl, living in the East End, evacuated during the War. All the other characters are there too, Viv and Albie. Life was tough so Queenie had to be tough.
There was something about Vinny Butler only a mother could love ...
Ain't that the truth.
There was even a character called ...
LOL. Fame, at last!!
We meet some Irish characters. Now, you know me and Irish characters ... usually get a bee in my bonnet about them if they are portrayed incorrectly... but, I must say, she had them down to a feckin' "t"!
Mary O'Leary, bless her!
And yes, the Irish (especially me) do say "feck" and "fecker" a lot of the time... much more civilised than the other "f" word, don't you think?
I probably could drop a star as it didn't have the intensity or the rollercoaster ride of the previous books but, as I did enjoy it and couldn't stop reading it, it gets the full FIVE STARS from me.
"You East Enders look after each other, like the Irish do."
The phone rings ...
January 29, 2020
In this prequel, we learn about Queenie and her sister, Vivian and his their childhood affected how they led their adult life. It's set just before the outbreak of World War II and takes us through to the early sixties. Queenie, Viv and their parents lived in the East End of London. Their father fought in the war but was medically discharged. Queenie and Viv were sent away to the country once the bombings started. But a traumatic event brought them back home. Queenie makes a new friend in the woman who moves into the house across the street. Mary O'Leary became more like a mother to Queenie.
I'm a big fan of Kimberley Chambers. I've read all of her books, so when I learned she was writing this book, i couldn't wait to read it. The story tells us how Queenie's life was before we met her in The Trap. Her life has not been an easy one. You will need to read the book to find out the reasons why. The storyline is believable and the characters are dysfunctional but lovable. There is humor and sadness in the Butlers lives. This book can be read as a standalone but I'm sure if you haven't already read the Butler series, you will after reading this marvellous book. I highly recommend it.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Kimberley Chambers for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a big fan of Kimberley Chambers. I've read all of her books, so when I learned she was writing this book, i couldn't wait to read it. The story tells us how Queenie's life was before we met her in The Trap. Her life has not been an easy one. You will need to read the book to find out the reasons why. The storyline is believable and the characters are dysfunctional but lovable. There is humor and sadness in the Butlers lives. This book can be read as a standalone but I'm sure if you haven't already read the Butler series, you will after reading this marvellous book. I highly recommend it.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Kimberley Chambers for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2020
I am a huge Kimberley Chambers fan and I have been so excited to read Queenie ever since Kim first said she was writing a prequel to the Butler series. And what a prequel this is, the tag line of the Queen of Gangland Crime has never been truer. I don’t want to speak too soon and say this is Kim’s best book yet, but it’s certainly one of them.
I was excited for the future of Kim’s books after the end of the Mitchell series and the Butler series with the incredible finale she delivered with Backstabber, but I was a little bit gutted to be leaving the families behind, especially the Butlers. I can still remember reading the Mitchell and O'Hara series across the course of one week, finishing The Victim at 2.30am in the morning. I can still remember the day I bought The Trap for the first time, well funnily enough I didn’t buy it my mum bought it for me and brought it home from work early on the morning of its release and I absolutely devoured it. I remember being in London and seeing Payback on sale early in ASDA on the Isle of Dogs, and so I bought it and didn’t mind one jot about carrying a big hardback around with me because I had one of my most anticipated books of the year early. Then along came my blog where I was privileged enough to start getting books early and I can remember my reaction to getting each and every one of Kim’s books. Memorable because of how excited I was and how much I loved the books, some books are easy to forget but I am never going to forget these ones. Kimberley Chambers is one hell of a storyteller, and she tells stories that leave lasting impressions.
Queenie has always been one of the best characters that Kim has created. A proper East Ender and in Queenie we see an incredible life from all the way back to the start of the war to Queenie’s old age. Kim has written books across many different decades but I felt that she captured the time of the war brilliantly here in Queenie. Even as a kid books set around the wartime fascinated me, especially about evacuation and then when I was older the books my mum and nan would read set in wartime Liverpool I started to read too. However Queenie is a much darker portrayal of that time with some of the stuff that goes on, but still there’s that real sense of community and camaraderie and it’s a believable portrayal of a time gone by, I’m not sure whether in the present day people would be the same as they were back then. One bit that will always feel powerful and draw emotion from me is the declaration of war by Neville Chamberlain, even here in its written form it’s still as haunting as hearing it spoken aloud, we can only imagine how people felt back then. Everything about that time for the chapters featuring that period felt so very real.
While I could talk about the story all day, and it would literally take me all day because this isn’t just a book, it felt like multiple books in one. It’s a proper saga that I took my time to read because I wanted to savour it and didn’t want it to end. It reminded me of when I fell in love with Martina Cole’s earlier books which weren’t just one story but were epic tales spanning many decades. Kim captures each the time periods so fantastically, it’s a truly evocative read and I always have no trouble visualising in my mind what I am reading about. The sights and sounds of London from the war onwards are brought to life here so vividly. For some reason I have always loved the East End of London and have always been fascinated by its history. Coming from a rough area of Liverpool maybe that’s why, but I always love reading about the old East End, and Kim always brings it to life so well. There was a line in the book where I think it’s Queenie who says about how a coffee shop wouldn’t do well in the area, well you can’t move for them now in some parts of the East End and while some say regeneration is good for what some see as ‘bad’ areas, it’s not for all of the people who get pushed out. The characters who grew up there and who made the area what it was are all present here and it’s a fantastic read of times gone by.
What I liked about Queenie was getting to see how the family came to be created. Queenie had a truly shocking start to life and I enjoyed seeing how she made a life for herself and the family that she went on to have. I’m not going to say she’s a wholly likeable character for the entire story because she’s not. Some of the things she does are questionable but at the same time I can easily see why she does what she does as deep down she only ever wants the best for her family. It was great seeing a younger Albie who I felt was shown in a much better light here than he was in the series, although not all of the time. I think that was where Queenie was her most unlikeable to me in terms of their marriage, but again all of the history that we read about in this mammoth story all add up to make sense to why certain characters behaved like they did in the main series. And as the book nears its conclusion I was absolutely gripped to what I was reading as some huge secrets are revealed.
All the other characters aside one of the ones who I was most intrigued to read about was a young Vinny Butler. We knew some of the reasons and events that made him the man he was in the later books but one reason why a prequel being written after a series has been completed works so well is that it makes us understand the characters more. I found myself thinking about scenes from the series after reading something in this book and thinking, 'well that’s why that happened' or 'oh that makes perfect sense now'. Vinny has always been a fascinating and enigmatic character and I have to admit I was gripped to some parts of his story here in Queenie.
I would say that I got more enjoyment out of reading Queenie having already read all of the later books. I don’t know what it was but I just felt that because I already knew the characters and where their stories went, there was just a different feel to the book than if I was meeting them for the first time. For that reason despite this being a prequel I think it could be beneficial to some readers to read the series first and then come back to this, but let’s be honest everyone has read all of Kimberley’s books already so let’s get Queenie bought and get another bestseller for the Queen of Gangland crime. I have read on Twitter about Sheridan Smith playing Queenie and I have to say if that ever happened it would be the best thing ever, I absolutely adore Sheridan Smith and think she would play Queenie so well. I would be over the moon to see Kim’s work on TV, and hope that it will happen one day.
I have to admit to finishing Queenie with a bit of a lump in my throat, once again Kimberley Chambers has written another story that is going to stay with me for a long time. I don’t feel like I’ve just finished a work of fiction, but rather read somebody’s life story. A story that was in places funny and heartwarming but then also harrowing and heartbreaking. Queenie is easily going to be one of my top reads of 2020, and I imagine it’s going to go straight to the top of the best sellers list. I cannot wait to see what Kim writes next but for now, her fans are absolutely going to love Queenie.
I was excited for the future of Kim’s books after the end of the Mitchell series and the Butler series with the incredible finale she delivered with Backstabber, but I was a little bit gutted to be leaving the families behind, especially the Butlers. I can still remember reading the Mitchell and O'Hara series across the course of one week, finishing The Victim at 2.30am in the morning. I can still remember the day I bought The Trap for the first time, well funnily enough I didn’t buy it my mum bought it for me and brought it home from work early on the morning of its release and I absolutely devoured it. I remember being in London and seeing Payback on sale early in ASDA on the Isle of Dogs, and so I bought it and didn’t mind one jot about carrying a big hardback around with me because I had one of my most anticipated books of the year early. Then along came my blog where I was privileged enough to start getting books early and I can remember my reaction to getting each and every one of Kim’s books. Memorable because of how excited I was and how much I loved the books, some books are easy to forget but I am never going to forget these ones. Kimberley Chambers is one hell of a storyteller, and she tells stories that leave lasting impressions.
Queenie has always been one of the best characters that Kim has created. A proper East Ender and in Queenie we see an incredible life from all the way back to the start of the war to Queenie’s old age. Kim has written books across many different decades but I felt that she captured the time of the war brilliantly here in Queenie. Even as a kid books set around the wartime fascinated me, especially about evacuation and then when I was older the books my mum and nan would read set in wartime Liverpool I started to read too. However Queenie is a much darker portrayal of that time with some of the stuff that goes on, but still there’s that real sense of community and camaraderie and it’s a believable portrayal of a time gone by, I’m not sure whether in the present day people would be the same as they were back then. One bit that will always feel powerful and draw emotion from me is the declaration of war by Neville Chamberlain, even here in its written form it’s still as haunting as hearing it spoken aloud, we can only imagine how people felt back then. Everything about that time for the chapters featuring that period felt so very real.
While I could talk about the story all day, and it would literally take me all day because this isn’t just a book, it felt like multiple books in one. It’s a proper saga that I took my time to read because I wanted to savour it and didn’t want it to end. It reminded me of when I fell in love with Martina Cole’s earlier books which weren’t just one story but were epic tales spanning many decades. Kim captures each the time periods so fantastically, it’s a truly evocative read and I always have no trouble visualising in my mind what I am reading about. The sights and sounds of London from the war onwards are brought to life here so vividly. For some reason I have always loved the East End of London and have always been fascinated by its history. Coming from a rough area of Liverpool maybe that’s why, but I always love reading about the old East End, and Kim always brings it to life so well. There was a line in the book where I think it’s Queenie who says about how a coffee shop wouldn’t do well in the area, well you can’t move for them now in some parts of the East End and while some say regeneration is good for what some see as ‘bad’ areas, it’s not for all of the people who get pushed out. The characters who grew up there and who made the area what it was are all present here and it’s a fantastic read of times gone by.
What I liked about Queenie was getting to see how the family came to be created. Queenie had a truly shocking start to life and I enjoyed seeing how she made a life for herself and the family that she went on to have. I’m not going to say she’s a wholly likeable character for the entire story because she’s not. Some of the things she does are questionable but at the same time I can easily see why she does what she does as deep down she only ever wants the best for her family. It was great seeing a younger Albie who I felt was shown in a much better light here than he was in the series, although not all of the time. I think that was where Queenie was her most unlikeable to me in terms of their marriage, but again all of the history that we read about in this mammoth story all add up to make sense to why certain characters behaved like they did in the main series. And as the book nears its conclusion I was absolutely gripped to what I was reading as some huge secrets are revealed.
All the other characters aside one of the ones who I was most intrigued to read about was a young Vinny Butler. We knew some of the reasons and events that made him the man he was in the later books but one reason why a prequel being written after a series has been completed works so well is that it makes us understand the characters more. I found myself thinking about scenes from the series after reading something in this book and thinking, 'well that’s why that happened' or 'oh that makes perfect sense now'. Vinny has always been a fascinating and enigmatic character and I have to admit I was gripped to some parts of his story here in Queenie.
I would say that I got more enjoyment out of reading Queenie having already read all of the later books. I don’t know what it was but I just felt that because I already knew the characters and where their stories went, there was just a different feel to the book than if I was meeting them for the first time. For that reason despite this being a prequel I think it could be beneficial to some readers to read the series first and then come back to this, but let’s be honest everyone has read all of Kimberley’s books already so let’s get Queenie bought and get another bestseller for the Queen of Gangland crime. I have read on Twitter about Sheridan Smith playing Queenie and I have to say if that ever happened it would be the best thing ever, I absolutely adore Sheridan Smith and think she would play Queenie so well. I would be over the moon to see Kim’s work on TV, and hope that it will happen one day.
I have to admit to finishing Queenie with a bit of a lump in my throat, once again Kimberley Chambers has written another story that is going to stay with me for a long time. I don’t feel like I’ve just finished a work of fiction, but rather read somebody’s life story. A story that was in places funny and heartwarming but then also harrowing and heartbreaking. Queenie is easily going to be one of my top reads of 2020, and I imagine it’s going to go straight to the top of the best sellers list. I cannot wait to see what Kim writes next but for now, her fans are absolutely going to love Queenie.
January 23, 2020
The Queen of gangland thrillers Kimberley Chambers is back! With one of my most anticipated reads of 2020 Queenie. Once again the author has delivered on every level, it’s gritty, wickedly entertaining, and brilliantly written. I’m delighted to say ‘Queenie is one of the best books I’ve had the pleasure to read this year’. For fans of the Butlers series, Queenie takes the reader back to the very beginning, all our favourite characters are here, Queenie, Viv, Albie, Vinnie, Roy and Michael and so many more. We learn how Queenie born into hardship and abuse becomes part of one of the most feared families in the East End, and what a story she has to tell, warts and all!
When I first started reading Queenie it seemed like I was meeting up with old friends but their younger versions. The book begins during the 1930s, Queenie’s early childhood is marred by tragic events, events that shape her into the feisty matriarch we all love. Queenie wants a better life for herself, one where money is no object and people fear her family. When she meets Albie Butler she’s satisfied he can give her the life she craves and deserves, but Albie is weak and has no backbone, so Queenie looks to her three young sons, determined they won’t be weak like their father. By hook or by crook Vinnie, Roy and Michael will rule the East End, making sure The Butlers name becomes an East End Legend.
Kimberly Chambers is one of those rare authors who has a gift for creating colourful characters, that are larger than life, you feel you know them inside out, and despite their flaws (they all have plenty of those), a small part of you can’t help but fall in love with everyone of the Butlers. it’s a testament to the authors writing that she is able to make you laugh and cry at their antics, love and hate them, all in the space of a few minutes!
As you would expect the dialogue between the characters is as usual spot on full of humour, sadness, and sometimes anger, it gives the reader a wonderful insight into the Butler’s life, like many families they are protective of their own (most of the time anyway!) they argue, fall out, make up and fall out again! But it’s this that makes them credible characters. Another thing that’s amazing about this authors writing is her attention to the small details, whatever era she is writing about she brings it to life with descriptions of the fashions and music trends, they transport you bang into the East End.
You may have noticed I have been vague with the plot details, but that’s because I want everyone who reads this book to enjoy every page of this gripping story. Queenie is 512 pages long, but it doesn’t feel like it, there’s so much going on to keep the reader eagerly turning the pages, it’s the type of book you just don’t want to end. Queenie has all the ingredients the authors legion of fans have come to love and I’m sure they won’t be disappointed, it has shocks, tender moments, it’s gritty, and authentic. Kimberly Chambers has yet again written another amazing page turner, and one that will no doubt be hitting the bestseller spot. Highly recommended.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
When I first started reading Queenie it seemed like I was meeting up with old friends but their younger versions. The book begins during the 1930s, Queenie’s early childhood is marred by tragic events, events that shape her into the feisty matriarch we all love. Queenie wants a better life for herself, one where money is no object and people fear her family. When she meets Albie Butler she’s satisfied he can give her the life she craves and deserves, but Albie is weak and has no backbone, so Queenie looks to her three young sons, determined they won’t be weak like their father. By hook or by crook Vinnie, Roy and Michael will rule the East End, making sure The Butlers name becomes an East End Legend.
Kimberly Chambers is one of those rare authors who has a gift for creating colourful characters, that are larger than life, you feel you know them inside out, and despite their flaws (they all have plenty of those), a small part of you can’t help but fall in love with everyone of the Butlers. it’s a testament to the authors writing that she is able to make you laugh and cry at their antics, love and hate them, all in the space of a few minutes!
As you would expect the dialogue between the characters is as usual spot on full of humour, sadness, and sometimes anger, it gives the reader a wonderful insight into the Butler’s life, like many families they are protective of their own (most of the time anyway!) they argue, fall out, make up and fall out again! But it’s this that makes them credible characters. Another thing that’s amazing about this authors writing is her attention to the small details, whatever era she is writing about she brings it to life with descriptions of the fashions and music trends, they transport you bang into the East End.
You may have noticed I have been vague with the plot details, but that’s because I want everyone who reads this book to enjoy every page of this gripping story. Queenie is 512 pages long, but it doesn’t feel like it, there’s so much going on to keep the reader eagerly turning the pages, it’s the type of book you just don’t want to end. Queenie has all the ingredients the authors legion of fans have come to love and I’m sure they won’t be disappointed, it has shocks, tender moments, it’s gritty, and authentic. Kimberly Chambers has yet again written another amazing page turner, and one that will no doubt be hitting the bestseller spot. Highly recommended.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
January 28, 2020
In this prequel, we learn about Queenie and her sister, Vivian nd how their childhood affected how they led their adult life. It's set just before the outbreak of World War II and takes us through to the early sixties. Queenie, Viv and their parents lived in the East Ens if London. Their father fought in the war but was medically discharged. Queenie and Viv were sent away to the country once the bombings started. Ut a traumatic event brought them back home. Queenie makes a new friend in the woman who moves into the house across the street. Mary O'Leary becomes more like a mother to Queenie.
I'm a big fan of Kimberley Chambers. I've read all her books so when I learned she was writing this book, I couldn't wait to read it. The story tells us what Queenies life was like before we met her in The Trap. Her life has not been an easy one. You will need to read the book to find out the reasons why. The storyline is believable and the characters are dysfunctional but lovable. There is humor and sadness in the Butlers lives. This book can be read as a standalone, but I'm sure, if you haven't already read The Butker series, you will after reading this marvellous book. I highly recommend it.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Kimberley Chambers for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a big fan of Kimberley Chambers. I've read all her books so when I learned she was writing this book, I couldn't wait to read it. The story tells us what Queenies life was like before we met her in The Trap. Her life has not been an easy one. You will need to read the book to find out the reasons why. The storyline is believable and the characters are dysfunctional but lovable. There is humor and sadness in the Butlers lives. This book can be read as a standalone, but I'm sure, if you haven't already read The Butker series, you will after reading this marvellous book. I highly recommend it.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Kimberley Chambers for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2020
5 Stars ….……
You are my sunshine my only sunshine
you make me happy when skies are grey, your never know dear how much I love you so don't take my sunshine away
The Butlers ….. it was the first series I read from this author. I was gripped from start to finish.
So when Kimberley Chambers decided to give us Queenie's story I just knew it was going to be a blinder of a read.
Set just before the Second World War it follows Queenie as a young girl growing up in the East End London.
It takes us up to the start of The Trap in the early Sixties
I absolutely loved it.
The special thing that this author creates is the characters and this along with her other books she certainly knows how to bring them to life.
At times it was hilarious, heart-rending but most of all a real page turner with lots of shocks along the way.
I just didn't want it to end.
It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend the Butler series.
Also on a plus the Butlers are being made for TV for which I'm really excited about.
You are my sunshine my only sunshine
you make me happy when skies are grey, your never know dear how much I love you so don't take my sunshine away
The Butlers ….. it was the first series I read from this author. I was gripped from start to finish.
So when Kimberley Chambers decided to give us Queenie's story I just knew it was going to be a blinder of a read.
Set just before the Second World War it follows Queenie as a young girl growing up in the East End London.
It takes us up to the start of The Trap in the early Sixties
I absolutely loved it.
The special thing that this author creates is the characters and this along with her other books she certainly knows how to bring them to life.
At times it was hilarious, heart-rending but most of all a real page turner with lots of shocks along the way.
I just didn't want it to end.
It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend the Butler series.
Also on a plus the Butlers are being made for TV for which I'm really excited about.
January 29, 2020
Fans of KC have been waiting for this book, in previous books Queenie is the matriarch Mum/Nan/Sister/Friend in the Butler series and this book charts her life from the beginning right up to the first Butler book
Queenie is a legend in the other books and so it was good to see how she started life and what she did to make sure her boys succeeded, often amoral and even more often hypocritical she moved anything and anyone that stood in her boys way and equally anyone who got in her way with her well known fiery temper and single mindedness
Tbh I always liked Queenie in the other books but at times just what she ‘overlooked’ re her boys behaviours especially Vinnie didn’t endear me to her quite so much this time
BUT its a great read, KC is as legend as Queenie is and every one of the 512 pages is up to the usual story telling and ‘real’ life narrative and if you have enjoyed her last 14 books then you will adore this one as well
This is a great book to immerse yourself in and for fans of the Butlers a must read that cant disappoint and brings a huge feel good factor to her fans and readers
10/10
5 Stars
January 24, 2021
‘Not for the faint hearted this, so put on your seatbelts and prepare for a rollercoaster. My name is Queenie and this is my story’
You know what you are getting with Kimberley Chambers and rarely does she disappoint. This time we begin in Summer 1939 when Hitler had just invaded Poland. The Wade family are a step above the East End slum-dwellers. They have a 2-bed house and a hot meal on the table every day. The family consists of mum, dad and two daughters. One of those daughters is 12-year-old Queenie.
I had just read an article in BBC History magazine about how obsessed we are in England about WWII. I was not sure about that and then I started reading this and then looking at my Kindle book Wishlist and chocks away they are quite right. Do you need to have any understanding of WWII events to enjoy this book? Absolutely not. The East End was hit hard during the Blitz. Many children from that area were sent away to other parts of the country that would not be targeted by the Luftwaffe. This was the case with Queenie and her sister who were sent to Lincolnshire. I remember watching a documentary and they had old footage of mothers putting their kids on trains. Evacuees to the countryside. It was heart-breaking. It is when they are evacuated that trouble starts for Queenie and not from Hitler. A dark incident when she is 14 that will change her life.
I have already purchased ‘The Trap’, ‘Payback’, ‘The Wronged’, ‘Tainted Love’ and ‘Backstabber’ and I was not even aware that Queenie is a prominent character in those. I only read that from the Goodreads reviews on Queenie. Can’t wait to read those. Maybe I should have read those first, I’m not sure. I’ll find out after I’ve read them. Nonetheless I enjoyed following Queenie from that dark childhood incident and into adulthood giving birth to Vinny, Roy, Michael and Brenda.
Let’s be honest here. The characters are always stereotyped and larger-than-life and this book is no different but they are always just so readable. This one does not have the high octane feel of her others. It really is just a novel showing how the Butlers came into the world from WWII up to the 1960's and as such it is just 3 stars for me. There wasn't that buzz you get from her other books.
You know what you are getting with Kimberley Chambers and rarely does she disappoint. This time we begin in Summer 1939 when Hitler had just invaded Poland. The Wade family are a step above the East End slum-dwellers. They have a 2-bed house and a hot meal on the table every day. The family consists of mum, dad and two daughters. One of those daughters is 12-year-old Queenie.
I had just read an article in BBC History magazine about how obsessed we are in England about WWII. I was not sure about that and then I started reading this and then looking at my Kindle book Wishlist and chocks away they are quite right. Do you need to have any understanding of WWII events to enjoy this book? Absolutely not. The East End was hit hard during the Blitz. Many children from that area were sent away to other parts of the country that would not be targeted by the Luftwaffe. This was the case with Queenie and her sister who were sent to Lincolnshire. I remember watching a documentary and they had old footage of mothers putting their kids on trains. Evacuees to the countryside. It was heart-breaking. It is when they are evacuated that trouble starts for Queenie and not from Hitler. A dark incident when she is 14 that will change her life.
I have already purchased ‘The Trap’, ‘Payback’, ‘The Wronged’, ‘Tainted Love’ and ‘Backstabber’ and I was not even aware that Queenie is a prominent character in those. I only read that from the Goodreads reviews on Queenie. Can’t wait to read those. Maybe I should have read those first, I’m not sure. I’ll find out after I’ve read them. Nonetheless I enjoyed following Queenie from that dark childhood incident and into adulthood giving birth to Vinny, Roy, Michael and Brenda.
Let’s be honest here. The characters are always stereotyped and larger-than-life and this book is no different but they are always just so readable. This one does not have the high octane feel of her others. It really is just a novel showing how the Butlers came into the world from WWII up to the 1960's and as such it is just 3 stars for me. There wasn't that buzz you get from her other books.
September 28, 2022
Tai jau antroji autorės knyga, kurią perskaičiau, galiu tik pasakyti tiek, kad labai patiko, ir tikrai nesitikėjau, kad knyga bus tokia įtraukianti ir nuostabi. Pradžioje gąsdino puslapių skaičius, ir galvojau, kiek čia užtruksiu, kol perskaitysiu, bet pasirodo puslapiai patys prašėsi būti verčiami. Šiame romane susipažinau su Kvine , ir jos nelengva gyvenimo istorija. Bus daug smurto, meilės ir išdavystės, jos gyvenimo kely, bet pati Kvine man patiko savo stiprybe, ryžtu, išmoktomis gyvenimo pamokomis ir begaline meile savo vaikams(ypač vyriausiajam sūnui Vinui).
April 15, 2024
3,5 ⭐️
Perskaičiau, bet atsiliepimas niekaip nesidėliojo galvoje. Tai palikau knygą kuriam laikui be įvertinimo ir tikėjausi, kad eigoje mintys susigulės.
Visa knyga - tai vienos moters gyvenimo istorija. Skaudi, žiauri, pamokanti. Apie žmones, kurie tavo gyvenimą sugriauna, ir apie žmones, kurie padeda tau gyvent toliau. Man labai kirtosi Kvinės ir jos aplinkos žmonių “vertybės” (rašau kabutėse, nes tai gal ne visai galima pavadinti vertybėmis), bet vis tik privertė pasigilinti ir į savo mintis. Visada galvojau, kad esu iš tų “teisingųjų” žmonių, kurie nenusižengia taisyklėms ir įstatymams. O bet tačiau, kai turi sūnų, ar nekovotum už jį nepaisant nieko? Nežinau. Nebuvau dar tokioje situacijoje ir norėtųsi tikėti, kad nebūsiu. Bet ar esant reikalui galėčiau taip kaip Kvinė eit iki galo meluojant ne tik sau, bet ir aplinkiniams?..
Perskaičiau, bet atsiliepimas niekaip nesidėliojo galvoje. Tai palikau knygą kuriam laikui be įvertinimo ir tikėjausi, kad eigoje mintys susigulės.
Visa knyga - tai vienos moters gyvenimo istorija. Skaudi, žiauri, pamokanti. Apie žmones, kurie tavo gyvenimą sugriauna, ir apie žmones, kurie padeda tau gyvent toliau. Man labai kirtosi Kvinės ir jos aplinkos žmonių “vertybės” (rašau kabutėse, nes tai gal ne visai galima pavadinti vertybėmis), bet vis tik privertė pasigilinti ir į savo mintis. Visada galvojau, kad esu iš tų “teisingųjų” žmonių, kurie nenusižengia taisyklėms ir įstatymams. O bet tačiau, kai turi sūnų, ar nekovotum už jį nepaisant nieko? Nežinau. Nebuvau dar tokioje situacijoje ir norėtųsi tikėti, kad nebūsiu. Bet ar esant reikalui galėčiau taip kaip Kvinė eit iki galo meluojant ne tik sau, bet ir aplinkiniams?..
May 16, 2020
5*
Stunning.
It is apt the book is released on the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
The plot centres around the start of WWII, and how the children were affected, how people felt losing loved ones, and how some kids who were taken to people out of the cities where the war was.
As the plot progresses to after the war, you understand why people in communities knitted together, to build up a bigger family other than blood relations.
There are parts in the book which got me as I do feel like there is an afterlife of people who really do look out for them they've left behind.
Stunning.
It is apt the book is released on the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
The plot centres around the start of WWII, and how the children were affected, how people felt losing loved ones, and how some kids who were taken to people out of the cities where the war was.
As the plot progresses to after the war, you understand why people in communities knitted together, to build up a bigger family other than blood relations.
There are parts in the book which got me as I do feel like there is an afterlife of people who really do look out for them they've left behind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this, particularly as was my first Kimberly Chambers read hence my now being desperate to sink my teeth into the rest of her books, particularly those about the butlers. Remarkably intricate story telling, and fascinating how the tale spanned over 30 years throughout the second world war and then into the 60s. Author has researched well. I've learnt things I never knew such as that in the 40s a pregnancy would be confirmed by a Hogben test- injecting a frog with a womans urine to see if it would subsequently lay eggs. Given that I used to live in Haggerston and my local market was The Waste it was brilliant to know all the locations in this book which helped me envisage it more vividly. My late father in law had a good friend Micheal who used to run very close with the Krays he would come round and tell us stories which ring very true of the characters in this book. I'm on my hunt for more Chambers books now. Hands down 5 stars.
March 20, 2020
Queenie is a larger than life character.
This is my first book by this author. From reviews on Goodreads it looks like this should have been the first of the Butler series so I’m not sorry to have started with this one.
Queenie is not always likable, she swears like a sailor and is not always a paragon of virtue, but one can commiserate with her considering her early life.
Her devotion to her children, her sons especially, borders on the obsessive, but it’s hard not to admire her, although she does not always go about demonstrating her devotion in an acceptable way.
One thing about Queenie she is loyal to a fault and she exhibits this in spades towards her sister Viv.
The writing feels totally authentic and I found myself liking Queenie even at her worst.
Great read!
This is my first book by this author. From reviews on Goodreads it looks like this should have been the first of the Butler series so I’m not sorry to have started with this one.
Queenie is not always likable, she swears like a sailor and is not always a paragon of virtue, but one can commiserate with her considering her early life.
Her devotion to her children, her sons especially, borders on the obsessive, but it’s hard not to admire her, although she does not always go about demonstrating her devotion in an acceptable way.
One thing about Queenie she is loyal to a fault and she exhibits this in spades towards her sister Viv.
The writing feels totally authentic and I found myself liking Queenie even at her worst.
Great read!
January 28, 2020
I loved this book and would give it more than five stars if I could.
It was great to get to know Queenie and everything she’s been through - and what a life she’s had!
Something terrible happened to her whilst she was sent away during the war but I think this made her stronger when she eventually spoke to Mary about it. This then shaped how she dealt with life and those she came into contact with.
When she had her sons she encouraged them to be the best they could be and whilst Albie criticises her for spoiling them, they are truly her world.
It was good to read about Vinny as he was starting out in life and there’s a few shocks in store here too.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read more from Kimberley Chambers.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
It was great to get to know Queenie and everything she’s been through - and what a life she’s had!
Something terrible happened to her whilst she was sent away during the war but I think this made her stronger when she eventually spoke to Mary about it. This then shaped how she dealt with life and those she came into contact with.
When she had her sons she encouraged them to be the best they could be and whilst Albie criticises her for spoiling them, they are truly her world.
It was good to read about Vinny as he was starting out in life and there’s a few shocks in store here too.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read more from Kimberley Chambers.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 27, 2020
Well what can i say except that in my own opinion Kimberley Chambers has given us her BEST book yet.I have been a massive fan of hers and have read all her books,the Butler books have given us so much entertainment and so when i read the blurb for Queenie i knew i had to have it.Queenie and Viv have a troublesome childhood but when they are evacuated Queenies life is never the same again.When they return home both girls settle back in but a shadow hovers over Queenie and Mary bides her time but eventually is told what happened.Now i have read this book i now know why Queenie is such a hard bitch in the Butler books.Kimberley Chambers you have nailed it and if i could i would give more *
April 11, 2020
As brilliant as ever from KC - this author doesn't know how to write less than a 5 star read!
PERFECTLY narrated by the Queen of narration herself, Annie Aldington. Oh my god what an awesome team they are.
PERFECTLY narrated by the Queen of narration herself, Annie Aldington. Oh my god what an awesome team they are.
January 27, 2020
I love Queenie and was pretty sure I would love the prequel just as much but wow I think this could well be my favourite book.
Kimberley brings the story vividly to life on the page and I was transfixed with the book all weekend.
I would give more than 5 stars if it was possible.
Kimberley brings the story vividly to life on the page and I was transfixed with the book all weekend.
I would give more than 5 stars if it was possible.
February 7, 2020
As always an absolutely amazing read by an amazing author, a perfect story from beginning to end.
I loved The Butler series and loved Queenie as a character, this book tells her story from her life as a young girl during World War II up to the 60's.
I absolutely loved reading Queenie and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. Kimberley Chambers certainly has another winner of a book on her hands. I can’t wait to read what comes next from this fantastic author.
I loved The Butler series and loved Queenie as a character, this book tells her story from her life as a young girl during World War II up to the 60's.
I absolutely loved reading Queenie and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. Kimberley Chambers certainly has another winner of a book on her hands. I can’t wait to read what comes next from this fantastic author.
Read
February 1, 2020Oh where do I start? A big fan of this author's work, i have read all fourteen of her book's, so have been so looking forward to her fifteenth novel Queenie, as we go back in time to the beginning of her earlier life. my passion for wartime sagas and east end crime fictions all rolled into one book that has been a big challenge for this author but she has delivered to me once again. so lets meet Queenie Wade, born in Whitechapel, Parents Molly and Eric and Sister Vivian the year is 1939 when war is on its way. Queenie is twelve years old Vivian is nine years old they were more than sisters best friends for many years to come. Mary Oleary living across the street with her two lads becomes a second mother to her and Queenie has her first crush on Daniel he makes her insides flutter big time. through out the war years we read a lot of sadness bombings in London and evacuation to the country, so much happens to Queenie the author is spot on with details. the book will push your buttons with lots of laugh out loud moments, Dysfunctional characters, that is unique all on its own. we read on to becoming a wife and mother learning a lot from Mary. this book can be read as a stand alone, but if you have not read the other four butlers trilogy you will after this. 1964 come to the end of this book and its left me with a big lump in my throat, i dont usually write long reviews but this book has so much to tell about it. i loved every bit of it and so will readers, its one of a kind in its own way. definitely her best yet.
October 23, 2021
3.5 stars 🌟
This is actually a difficult review for me because there were some parts of this book that I loved, and some parts that I didn't. I've been reading more books of genres that aren't in my comfort zone recently and I'm just unsure of this.
The writing is good, and I found it was a page turner but for me there was just something not quite there for me, perhaps the language or the plot? Perhaps because I normally read for escapism this just didn't really do it for me..
All in all though Kimberly Chambers is definitely queen of this particular genre and knows how to wrote it well. Ill probably try another of her books in the future.
This is actually a difficult review for me because there were some parts of this book that I loved, and some parts that I didn't. I've been reading more books of genres that aren't in my comfort zone recently and I'm just unsure of this.
The writing is good, and I found it was a page turner but for me there was just something not quite there for me, perhaps the language or the plot? Perhaps because I normally read for escapism this just didn't really do it for me..
All in all though Kimberly Chambers is definitely queen of this particular genre and knows how to wrote it well. Ill probably try another of her books in the future.
June 11, 2023
Knyga gali nepatikti, jei vertinama pati jos herojė, o ne tai, kaip autorei pavyko pateikti jos gyvenimo istoriją. Tad nuo Kvinės (kaip merginos, moters, motinos) pasistengiau atsiriboti ir gilintis tik į tai, kokiomis meninėmis priemonėmis autorė praturtina veiksmą, kokias formas ir metodus naudoja kūrybos procese. Deja, negaliu skirti aukšto vertinimo... Autorės užmojis – didelis, bet rezultatas – tik šiaip sau (nežiūrint to, kad romano kompozicija, siužeto pateikimas – neblogi, įtraukimas į skaitymą (intriga) irgi, o aprašomos gyvenimo istorijos išskirtinumą, veikėjų charakteringumą taip pat galiu vertinti gerai, bet stilius, vaizdingumas, įtikinamumas, įtaigumas, veiksmo ir atskirų veikėjų poelgių psichologinis pagrindimas – nelabai aukšto lygio, monologai ir dialogai ne geresni kaip patenkinami). Ir – svarbiausia – teksto kokybė prasta. Kadangi skaičiau verstą tekstą, negaliu reikšti konkrečių priekaištų autorei, vertėjai ar redaktoriui, bet bendras įspūdis toks.
Romanas (mano supratimu) akivaizdžiai per ilgas. Nesutinku su knygos nugarėlėje pateikta nuomone, kad „jei mėgstate šiurkščius, nenušlifuotus detektyvus, šis romanas jums patiks“. Jei dar tik ruošiatės skaityti šią knygą ir tikitės detektyvinės istorijos, –detektyvo elementų šiame romane beveik nėra, bet knyga sukelia įdomų įspūdį: autorė sugeba suintriguoti skaitytoją, tiesa, kuo ilgiau skaitant, tuo labiau veiksmo įtikinamumas mažėja. Autorė labai nuvertina Anglijos policijos darbą: susidaro įspūdis, kad ši bejėgi ne tik tirdama smulkius nusikaltimus, bet ir nužudymus.
Paprastai, kai vertinimas svyruoja tarp patenkinamo ir gero, skiriu knygai 7 balus, bet pažymiu ją keturiomis žvaigždutėmis, nes: gal ko teigiamo joje nepastebėjau, nesupratau ar dėl kitų priežasčių bijau būti neobjektyvus. Šį kartą vertindamas 7 balais (t.y. 3,5 žvaigždutės) suteikiau 3 žvaigždutes, nes atotrūkis tarp patenkinamo ir gero vertinimo pernelyg didelis. Bet romanas tikrai nėra blogas; skaitytojai, kurie mėgsta ilgus tekstus, kurių nenervina paviršutiniškumas, juo turbūt nenusivils, tai rodo ir paskelbti vertinimai.
Nežinau, ar autorė to siekė, bet didaktikos elementas knygoje yra. Juk romanas apie tai, kaip perteklinė motinos meilė įtakoja monstro susiformavimą ir kaip sūnaus monstriškumas palengva persiduoda motinai (logiškas grįžtamasis ryšys). Tad, nežiūrint trūkumų, knyga priverčia susimąstyti.
Romanas (mano supratimu) akivaizdžiai per ilgas. Nesutinku su knygos nugarėlėje pateikta nuomone, kad „jei mėgstate šiurkščius, nenušlifuotus detektyvus, šis romanas jums patiks“. Jei dar tik ruošiatės skaityti šią knygą ir tikitės detektyvinės istorijos, –detektyvo elementų šiame romane beveik nėra, bet knyga sukelia įdomų įspūdį: autorė sugeba suintriguoti skaitytoją, tiesa, kuo ilgiau skaitant, tuo labiau veiksmo įtikinamumas mažėja. Autorė labai nuvertina Anglijos policijos darbą: susidaro įspūdis, kad ši bejėgi ne tik tirdama smulkius nusikaltimus, bet ir nužudymus.
Paprastai, kai vertinimas svyruoja tarp patenkinamo ir gero, skiriu knygai 7 balus, bet pažymiu ją keturiomis žvaigždutėmis, nes: gal ko teigiamo joje nepastebėjau, nesupratau ar dėl kitų priežasčių bijau būti neobjektyvus. Šį kartą vertindamas 7 balais (t.y. 3,5 žvaigždutės) suteikiau 3 žvaigždutes, nes atotrūkis tarp patenkinamo ir gero vertinimo pernelyg didelis. Bet romanas tikrai nėra blogas; skaitytojai, kurie mėgsta ilgus tekstus, kurių nenervina paviršutiniškumas, juo turbūt nenusivils, tai rodo ir paskelbti vertinimai.
Nežinau, ar autorė to siekė, bet didaktikos elementas knygoje yra. Juk romanas apie tai, kaip perteklinė motinos meilė įtakoja monstro susiformavimą ir kaip sūnaus monstriškumas palengva persiduoda motinai (logiškas grįžtamasis ryšys). Tad, nežiūrint trūkumų, knyga priverčia susimąstyti.
January 30, 2020
What an amazing book Queenie was, one minute I really liked her and the next I didn't!! I was utterly hooked from Chapter one, and a highly recommended read.
December 28, 2022
Rašytoja išlaiko savo braižą bei toliau kuria įtraukiančias ir įdomias knygas.
Šįkartą knygos verpete pagrindinė veikėja yra moteris. Tad žaibų ir audrų yra su kaupu, o banalumo ir ramumos nė kvapo.
Šįkartą knygos verpete pagrindinė veikėja yra moteris. Tad žaibų ir audrų yra su kaupu, o banalumo ir ramumos nė kvapo.
November 5, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
March 15, 2020
Queenie is Kimberley Chambers’ prequel to her crime series featuring the Butler family. This takes us back to the outbreak of WWII when Queenie and her sister Vivian are sent from east London to the relative safety of the countryside. When a traumatic event occurs they return back home and we follow their journey through the next couple of decades.
Queenie marries the handsome but unreliable Albie and has several children with him. The entire Butler family begin to make something of themselves in the East End and their exploits are rarely legal.
I liked this and it was compulsively readable but it’s not my favourite in the series. It was good to learn more about the origins of the Butlers and if you like a gritty crime or family saga then this one will be for you! I think I’m perhaps a bit tired of the same characters doing the same things throughout multiple books. I’m a fan of Chambers though and will definitely keep reading her novels!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Queenie marries the handsome but unreliable Albie and has several children with him. The entire Butler family begin to make something of themselves in the East End and their exploits are rarely legal.
I liked this and it was compulsively readable but it’s not my favourite in the series. It was good to learn more about the origins of the Butlers and if you like a gritty crime or family saga then this one will be for you! I think I’m perhaps a bit tired of the same characters doing the same things throughout multiple books. I’m a fan of Chambers though and will definitely keep reading her novels!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
May 23, 2020
I have such mixed feelings about this book.
Initially I felt like the writing style was a bit simplistic, but I warmed to it and soon came to understand it as a reflection of the protagonist.
I have really mixed feelings towards 'Queenie' obviously I empathise for her in light of the trauma she has suffered. However, I struggle to understand her love of 'Daniel' . Personally I find her attraction to him rather shallow and more lustful. Moreover, I find it difficult to forgive some of her behaviour, particularly in the way she responds to her own son's behaviour.
However, upon reflection, I appreciate Chambers temporal setting . I felt this further demonstrated the extent to which Queenie exhibited determination to rectify the injustices in her life, as a working class woman in a time of oppression.
Initially I felt like the writing style was a bit simplistic, but I warmed to it and soon came to understand it as a reflection of the protagonist.
I have really mixed feelings towards 'Queenie' obviously I empathise for her in light of the trauma she has suffered. However, I struggle to understand her love of 'Daniel' . Personally I find her attraction to him rather shallow and more lustful. Moreover, I find it difficult to forgive some of her behaviour, particularly in the way she responds to her own son's behaviour.
However, upon reflection, I appreciate Chambers temporal setting . I felt this further demonstrated the extent to which Queenie exhibited determination to rectify the injustices in her life, as a working class woman in a time of oppression.
January 25, 2020
I heard the author being interviewed on BBC Radio 2. I hadn't heard of Kimberley Chambers, so I pre-ordered her latest novel, soon to be released. What a disappointment.
I was born and raised in the east end of London in the 1950s and early 60s. OK, my parents worked, but we were not well off at all. Yet, there was none of the behaviour described in the book locally whatsoever. I recognised some of the descriptions and references, those which were true to the times, such as rationing, queues in the shops, helping our neighbours and the reminders of the war all around us, but not the characters portrayed. There wasn't a likeable character at all. So much violence and theft, most of it condoned by the parents.
I am aware of the Kray twins, of course, and the havoc they raised around them, but I would hate to think every reader of this book, and Kimberley Chambers is a popular author I understand, that everyone from the east end was like this.
Is this book reflective of Kimberely's other books? If so, I won't be buying any more.
I was born and raised in the east end of London in the 1950s and early 60s. OK, my parents worked, but we were not well off at all. Yet, there was none of the behaviour described in the book locally whatsoever. I recognised some of the descriptions and references, those which were true to the times, such as rationing, queues in the shops, helping our neighbours and the reminders of the war all around us, but not the characters portrayed. There wasn't a likeable character at all. So much violence and theft, most of it condoned by the parents.
I am aware of the Kray twins, of course, and the havoc they raised around them, but I would hate to think every reader of this book, and Kimberley Chambers is a popular author I understand, that everyone from the east end was like this.
Is this book reflective of Kimberely's other books? If so, I won't be buying any more.
April 29, 2020
I was really looking forward to this and it did not disappoint.
For the first time we get learn Queenie's story from a young girl in World War II up until the 60's.
Her rocky marriage and how she brings up her children, especially her Sons who she teaches from an early age to be tough. The family gain a reputation from the boys behaviour and Queenie revels in it much to her Husbands disgust.
There was some great characters in the book and the setting made the story so realistic you could visualise it. Quite a long book but the storyline kept me hooked.
Although I didn't see the ending coming I think I was expecting more from it.
A book I would highly recommend for fans of this genre.
For the first time we get learn Queenie's story from a young girl in World War II up until the 60's.
Her rocky marriage and how she brings up her children, especially her Sons who she teaches from an early age to be tough. The family gain a reputation from the boys behaviour and Queenie revels in it much to her Husbands disgust.
There was some great characters in the book and the setting made the story so realistic you could visualise it. Quite a long book but the storyline kept me hooked.
Although I didn't see the ending coming I think I was expecting more from it.
A book I would highly recommend for fans of this genre.
February 7, 2020
Time taken to read - Every second able over 3 days
Pages - 400
Publisher - Harper Collins
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
SHE WAS MADE IN THE EAST END . . .
For young Queenie, life in the backstreets of Whitechapel was a lesson in survival – Hitler’s bombs hit those with nothing the hardest. When danger strikes close to home, Queenie finds an ally in Mrs O’Leary, whose two sons are the kingpins of the East End. But while the O’Learys are the light in Queenie’s life, fate has a different path in store.
AND MEN ARE WHAT THEIR MOTHERS MAKE THEM . . .
Now married to the useless Albie Butler, Queenie is raising her children to fight their own battles. If the O’Learys taught her anything, it was that surviving meant doing whatever you had to, no questions asked, and family always comes first. The Butler boys will make sure their mother’s name becomes East End legend.
MEET QUEENIE.
THIS IS HER STORY.
My Review
If you are a Chambers fan then I have no need to say how long some of us hoped and waited for this book. If you are new to her writing then as this is Queenie's story, a prequel, here is as good a place to start as any. However, it is no secret I LOVE the Butler book's and whilst they have predominantly been about the boys, Queenie was always there. Now, with this book, we learn her story, how she came to be the woman we met over those books and that immovable relationship with her boys, particularly Vinny.
It is the time just before the war (world war 2) when it isn't quite kicked off yet. Queenie and Viv are close as close can be. We get a look at their lives, with their parents and poverty and pre war and then the steps taken during the war that have long reaching effects on Queenie.
It is so hard to go into it without spoiling anything and we do not do spoilers. We get to see Queenie as a child, a teen and adulthood. Events that lead to shaping her as a person and seeing why family is absolutely everything to Queenie, particularly her boys and her sister. At times she is hard to understand, I coldn't fathom some of her choices/actions. Others you get it, you get why she is the way she is and who she becomes.
I have loved the Butlers since i read the first book, I will need to go back and re read the rest of the series, they are always the first books of Chambers I recommend to people. Think the Kray brothers but there are three instead of two. In Queenie we meet their mum as a child, becoming a woman and how their story begins.
If you enjoy the previous books you will love this one. If anything instead of quenching your thirst it only has you wanting more. I always have the fear picking up a Chambers book because I loved the ones so much that came before so you figure, how long can you keep churning out fresh books, keep packing punches and keep the reader on their toes? yet she does it, every single time and has done it again, 5/5 for me this time. Do I want another Butler book? HELL YES, I do so hope we get another and will be patiently waiting for the next book, Butler related or not!
Pages - 400
Publisher - Harper Collins
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
SHE WAS MADE IN THE EAST END . . .
For young Queenie, life in the backstreets of Whitechapel was a lesson in survival – Hitler’s bombs hit those with nothing the hardest. When danger strikes close to home, Queenie finds an ally in Mrs O’Leary, whose two sons are the kingpins of the East End. But while the O’Learys are the light in Queenie’s life, fate has a different path in store.
AND MEN ARE WHAT THEIR MOTHERS MAKE THEM . . .
Now married to the useless Albie Butler, Queenie is raising her children to fight their own battles. If the O’Learys taught her anything, it was that surviving meant doing whatever you had to, no questions asked, and family always comes first. The Butler boys will make sure their mother’s name becomes East End legend.
MEET QUEENIE.
THIS IS HER STORY.
My Review
If you are a Chambers fan then I have no need to say how long some of us hoped and waited for this book. If you are new to her writing then as this is Queenie's story, a prequel, here is as good a place to start as any. However, it is no secret I LOVE the Butler book's and whilst they have predominantly been about the boys, Queenie was always there. Now, with this book, we learn her story, how she came to be the woman we met over those books and that immovable relationship with her boys, particularly Vinny.
It is the time just before the war (world war 2) when it isn't quite kicked off yet. Queenie and Viv are close as close can be. We get a look at their lives, with their parents and poverty and pre war and then the steps taken during the war that have long reaching effects on Queenie.
It is so hard to go into it without spoiling anything and we do not do spoilers. We get to see Queenie as a child, a teen and adulthood. Events that lead to shaping her as a person and seeing why family is absolutely everything to Queenie, particularly her boys and her sister. At times she is hard to understand, I coldn't fathom some of her choices/actions. Others you get it, you get why she is the way she is and who she becomes.
I have loved the Butlers since i read the first book, I will need to go back and re read the rest of the series, they are always the first books of Chambers I recommend to people. Think the Kray brothers but there are three instead of two. In Queenie we meet their mum as a child, becoming a woman and how their story begins.
If you enjoy the previous books you will love this one. If anything instead of quenching your thirst it only has you wanting more. I always have the fear picking up a Chambers book because I loved the ones so much that came before so you figure, how long can you keep churning out fresh books, keep packing punches and keep the reader on their toes? yet she does it, every single time and has done it again, 5/5 for me this time. Do I want another Butler book? HELL YES, I do so hope we get another and will be patiently waiting for the next book, Butler related or not!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews