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East End Ration #4
A Ration Book Wedding
It's February 1942 and the American's have finally joined Britain and its allies. Meanwhile, twenty-three-year-old Francesca Fabrino, like thousands of other women, is doing her bit for the war effort in a factory in East London. But her thoughts are constantly occupied by her unrequited love for Charlie Brogan, who has recently married a woman of questionable reputation, before being shipped out to North Africa with the Eighth Army.
When Francesca starts a new job as an Italian translator for the BBC Overseas Department, she meets handsome Count Leonardo D'Angelo. Just as Francesca has begun to put her hopeless love for Charlie to one side and embrace the affections of this charming and impressive man, Charlie returns from the front, his marriage in ruins and his heart burning for Francesca at last. Could she, a good Catholic girl, countenance an illicit affair with the man she has always longed for? Or should she choose a different, less dangerous path?
When Francesca starts a new job as an Italian translator for the BBC Overseas Department, she meets handsome Count Leonardo D'Angelo. Just as Francesca has begun to put her hopeless love for Charlie to one side and embrace the affections of this charming and impressive man, Charlie returns from the front, his marriage in ruins and his heart burning for Francesca at last. Could she, a good Catholic girl, countenance an illicit affair with the man she has always longed for? Or should she choose a different, less dangerous path?
400 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2020
137 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Jean Fullerton
30 books198 followersI was born into a large, East End family and grew up in the overcrowded streets clustered around the Tower of London. I still live in East London, just five miles from where I was born. I feel that it is that my background that gives my historical East London stories their distinctive authenticity.
I first fell in love with history at school when I read Anya Seton’s book Katherine. Since then I have read everything I can about English history but I am particularly fascinated by the 18th and 19th century and my books are set in this period. I just love my native city and the East End in particular which is why I write stories to bring that vibrant area of London alive.
I am also passionate about historical accuracy and I enjoy researching the details almost as much as weaving the story. If one of my characters walks down a street you can be assured that that street actually existed. Take a look at Jean’s East End and see the actual location where my characters played out their stories.
I first fell in love with history at school when I read Anya Seton’s book Katherine. Since then I have read everything I can about English history but I am particularly fascinated by the 18th and 19th century and my books are set in this period. I just love my native city and the East End in particular which is why I write stories to bring that vibrant area of London alive.
I am also passionate about historical accuracy and I enjoy researching the details almost as much as weaving the story. If one of my characters walks down a street you can be assured that that street actually existed. Take a look at Jean’s East End and see the actual location where my characters played out their stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
May 14, 2020
5☆ A Captivating, Heart Warming, Authentic Saga, I can't Recommend Enough!
A Ration Book Wedding is the fourth book in this captivating and heart warming series. I definitely recommend reading all books in order, as the characters and backstories are just too good to be missed!
It was such a joy to be back with the Brogan family. A lot has happened to the Brogan's over the last few books, so the idea of a wedding filled me with joy.
I'm not going to go into any details as I don't want to risk spoiling anything if your yet to catch up on the series.
But what I will say is, A Ration Book Wedding is beautifully written, Authentic, Captivating, Poignant and Uplifting.
As always Jean Fullerton transports her readers into the heart of the story, WWII and creates so much Atmospheric sensations, the bombings, the underground factory, rations, loved ones being called up for war, the spirit of the war effort, the community, the Heartache, Romance, Love, Laughter and Sadness.
Not to forget the loveable characters I have grown so fond of, especially Queenie!
If you are looking for a captivating historical saga and your yet to read this wonderful series, then I highly recommend you grab yourself a copy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
A Ration Book Wedding is the fourth book in this captivating and heart warming series. I definitely recommend reading all books in order, as the characters and backstories are just too good to be missed!
It was such a joy to be back with the Brogan family. A lot has happened to the Brogan's over the last few books, so the idea of a wedding filled me with joy.
I'm not going to go into any details as I don't want to risk spoiling anything if your yet to catch up on the series.
But what I will say is, A Ration Book Wedding is beautifully written, Authentic, Captivating, Poignant and Uplifting.
As always Jean Fullerton transports her readers into the heart of the story, WWII and creates so much Atmospheric sensations, the bombings, the underground factory, rations, loved ones being called up for war, the spirit of the war effort, the community, the Heartache, Romance, Love, Laughter and Sadness.
Not to forget the loveable characters I have grown so fond of, especially Queenie!
If you are looking for a captivating historical saga and your yet to read this wonderful series, then I highly recommend you grab yourself a copy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
March 4, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Set in London in 1942 and based around childhood friends, Charlie and Francesca. Charlie has just returned injured from active duty. Francesca works in the translation department for the BBC. Francesca has always had feelings for Charlie but she has a new man in her life, Count Leo D'Angelo. But Charlie's marriage is over and he's madly in love with Francesca. But who will Francesca choose.
I did ot know this book was part of a series when I requested it. Although the story was easy to read, i did feel that I was missing some background information. There is plenty of family drama. The characters were true to the era and there has been some research into what living through the war years was like. Its also well written. I'm just disappointed that I hadn't read the other books in this series before I read this one.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Atlantic Books and the author Jewn Fullerton for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set in London in 1942 and based around childhood friends, Charlie and Francesca. Charlie has just returned injured from active duty. Francesca works in the translation department for the BBC. Francesca has always had feelings for Charlie but she has a new man in her life, Count Leo D'Angelo. But Charlie's marriage is over and he's madly in love with Francesca. But who will Francesca choose.
I did ot know this book was part of a series when I requested it. Although the story was easy to read, i did feel that I was missing some background information. There is plenty of family drama. The characters were true to the era and there has been some research into what living through the war years was like. Its also well written. I'm just disappointed that I hadn't read the other books in this series before I read this one.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Atlantic Books and the author Jewn Fullerton for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2020
I loved this book, it is the 4th in this particular series and it was as good as the others. I just flew through it. It carries on from the last one which is great with the same family with a few other characters. I do hope there is more I this series as it doesn’t really finish and it would be a shame if it ends there.
January 7, 2021
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
Well, Fullerton continues to surprise and interest with this series, now four books down the line. I was wondering at the end of the last one whether the writer could maintain my interest in these characters and, once again, she has definitely succeeded.
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
Well, Fullerton continues to surprise and interest with this series, now four books down the line. I was wondering at the end of the last one whether the writer could maintain my interest in these characters and, once again, she has definitely succeeded.
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
May 11, 2020
Having very much enjoyed two of the previous books in the series, A Ration Book Christmas and A Ration Book Childhood (I’ve yet to read the first book, A Pocketful of Dreams), it was a pleasure to be reunited with the spirited Brogan family. Although A Ration Book Wedding picks up some of the storylines from the previous book, it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone and, for new readers, there are brief recaps of previous events inserted unobtrusively by the author.
The focus of this book is Francesca, best friend of Mattie, one of the daughters of the Brogan household. Francesca has always nursed a secret passion for Mattie’s charming but slightly ne’er do well brother, Charlie, now married to Stella. Formerly the gloriously named Stella Miggles, Stella is, let us say, ‘no better than she ought to be’ and is harbouring a secret about her singular contribution to the war effort she hopes won’t get back to Charlie. She is also decidedly short on maternal affection towards their young son, Patrick.
As certain unsavoury individuals learn to their cost, the Brogans look after their own. Matriarch of the clan, Queenie, is a one woman force to be reckoned with. I suspect I won’t have been the only reader silently mouthing ‘Go Queenie!’ at one particular point in proceedings.
As with previous books in the series, the atmosphere of wartime London is vividly evoked, from the details of daily life – rationing, the blackout, war work, the National Loaf, nights spent in bomb shelters – to the scenes of blitzed streets and bombed out buildings. Even John Lewis Oxford Street doesn’t escape the wrath of the Luftwaffe. What sacrilege!
I loved learning facts about wartime Britain such as that Ministry of Food regulations restricted restaurants to offering only two vegetable dishes with a meal or that factories manufacturing components were constructed in the tunnels of the Underground.
When Francesca gets a job as a translator at the BBC – much to the dismay of her father who holds an old-fashioned view of a woman’s role – it not only brings her into contact with the dashing Count D’Angelo but provides the opportunity for a fascinating insight into broadcasting operations during the war.
As Francesca helps with preparations for the wedding of Mattie’s sister, Jo, she ponders on her own romantic opportunities. When fate intervenes to make something attainable that seemed previously unattainable, her decision becomes more difficult. Should it be dinner at Claridges or a pie and mash supper? What does Francesca choose? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
A Ration Book Wedding is another drama-filled visit to the larger-than-life Brogan family and a vivid insight into daily life for Londoners during World War 2. Love, betrayal, happiness, sorrow – the book has it all. Oh, and steamed pigs’ hearts, braised liver and mash, and plenty of bread and dripping.
The focus of this book is Francesca, best friend of Mattie, one of the daughters of the Brogan household. Francesca has always nursed a secret passion for Mattie’s charming but slightly ne’er do well brother, Charlie, now married to Stella. Formerly the gloriously named Stella Miggles, Stella is, let us say, ‘no better than she ought to be’ and is harbouring a secret about her singular contribution to the war effort she hopes won’t get back to Charlie. She is also decidedly short on maternal affection towards their young son, Patrick.
As certain unsavoury individuals learn to their cost, the Brogans look after their own. Matriarch of the clan, Queenie, is a one woman force to be reckoned with. I suspect I won’t have been the only reader silently mouthing ‘Go Queenie!’ at one particular point in proceedings.
As with previous books in the series, the atmosphere of wartime London is vividly evoked, from the details of daily life – rationing, the blackout, war work, the National Loaf, nights spent in bomb shelters – to the scenes of blitzed streets and bombed out buildings. Even John Lewis Oxford Street doesn’t escape the wrath of the Luftwaffe. What sacrilege!
I loved learning facts about wartime Britain such as that Ministry of Food regulations restricted restaurants to offering only two vegetable dishes with a meal or that factories manufacturing components were constructed in the tunnels of the Underground.
When Francesca gets a job as a translator at the BBC – much to the dismay of her father who holds an old-fashioned view of a woman’s role – it not only brings her into contact with the dashing Count D’Angelo but provides the opportunity for a fascinating insight into broadcasting operations during the war.
As Francesca helps with preparations for the wedding of Mattie’s sister, Jo, she ponders on her own romantic opportunities. When fate intervenes to make something attainable that seemed previously unattainable, her decision becomes more difficult. Should it be dinner at Claridges or a pie and mash supper? What does Francesca choose? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
A Ration Book Wedding is another drama-filled visit to the larger-than-life Brogan family and a vivid insight into daily life for Londoners during World War 2. Love, betrayal, happiness, sorrow – the book has it all. Oh, and steamed pigs’ hearts, braised liver and mash, and plenty of bread and dripping.
May 20, 2020
This was another fantastic, atmospheric read from one of my favourite saga writers. I’ve really enjoyed following the Brogan family and all their ups and downs over the years. They’ve definitely been through their share of misfortune and have started to feel like old friends as I feel I have been through so much with them! It was lovely to be back with them and able to celebrate happy and sad times alongside them.
One of the things I most like about this author is her ability to transport the reader back in time to the second world war so that they feel like they are actually there watching everything unfold alongside the characters. I enjoyed learning more about what daily life was like during the blitz in London and to have to live with the challenges of rationing and visiting air raid shelters. I was surprised at some of the items on the ration list and what people had to use as a substitution. It was definitely a difficult time and I was pleased to experience it all alongside one of my favourite families!
I have to admit that Francesca has always been one of my favourite characters so I was very excited that she might get her chance with Charlie after all this time. I’ve been routing for them from the start so I found that part of the book hard to out down as I raced through the pages desperate to know the outcome. The ending was brilliant and has left me very eager to read more from the Brogan family in the future.
Huge thanks to Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Corvus for my copy of this book via Netgalley.
One of the things I most like about this author is her ability to transport the reader back in time to the second world war so that they feel like they are actually there watching everything unfold alongside the characters. I enjoyed learning more about what daily life was like during the blitz in London and to have to live with the challenges of rationing and visiting air raid shelters. I was surprised at some of the items on the ration list and what people had to use as a substitution. It was definitely a difficult time and I was pleased to experience it all alongside one of my favourite families!
I have to admit that Francesca has always been one of my favourite characters so I was very excited that she might get her chance with Charlie after all this time. I’ve been routing for them from the start so I found that part of the book hard to out down as I raced through the pages desperate to know the outcome. The ending was brilliant and has left me very eager to read more from the Brogan family in the future.
Huge thanks to Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Corvus for my copy of this book via Netgalley.
July 16, 2020
Another book in the series and the second one that I've read.
The story is very good and I love the Brogan family as much as ever. However, it didn't grab me as much as the first one did. I liked most of the story but there were parts of it that just didn't appeal to me.
Stella's true colours appear in this one and she is I've read about in a long time.
The romance between Francesca and Leo didn't ring true for me. It seemed as if it was before things got sorted out.
Queenie is still one of my favorite characters and I actually went back and reread the scene in the pub with Stan. Brilliant!!
Saying that, I hope there's another book to come as there is still so much to be settled. I'd recommend this to anyone who loves books set in the War years and telling the story of the hardship of ordinary everyday people through an extremely trying time in their lives.
The story is very good and I love the Brogan family as much as ever. However, it didn't grab me as much as the first one did. I liked most of the story but there were parts of it that just didn't appeal to me.
Stella's true colours appear in this one and she is I've read about in a long time.
The romance between Francesca and Leo didn't ring true for me. It seemed as if it was before things got sorted out.
Queenie is still one of my favorite characters and I actually went back and reread the scene in the pub with Stan. Brilliant!!
Saying that, I hope there's another book to come as there is still so much to be settled. I'd recommend this to anyone who loves books set in the War years and telling the story of the hardship of ordinary everyday people through an extremely trying time in their lives.
June 10, 2020
I really do enjoy the strong sense of family and community evoked in Jean Fullerton’s wonderful tales of East London during the War and in her latest saga, A Ration Book Wedding, she has once again penned a charming, hopeful, delightful and romantic read I thoroughly enjoyed.
It’s 1942 and with the Americans having finally joined Britain as one of its allies, it looks like maybe, just maybe, there could be a chink of light at the end of the very dark tunnel England has been trapped in for what seems like forever. Everybody is keen to do their bit for king and country and twenty-three year old Francesca Fabrino is certainly no exception. Working in a factory in East London, Francesca hopes that by throwing herself into her work and into doing her bit, she might stop thinking about the recently married Charlie Brogan, who is with the Eight Army at the moment fighting North Africa. Life does have a habit of giving you what you need, rather than what you want, when you least expect it, and that certainly proves to be the case when she starts a job for the BBC Overseas Department, that propels her into the path of some very interesting people – including one who could well end up turning her entire life upside down.
Count Leo D’Angelo is handsome, charming, debonair and wastes no time in turning Francesca’s head. For the first time in a very long while, Francesca feels like maybe she can start making inroads and move on from her hopeless love for Charlie. Leo is everything she could possibly want in a partner and so much more besides. Dare she take a leap of faith and grab this unexpected chance of happiness with a man who might truly make her happy? But just when Francesca had been about to throw all caution to the wind and embrace a future with Leo, Charlie returns with his marriage in tatters, but his heart finally ready for Francesca. Torn between two men, what is Francesca going to do now?
Should she take this chance to be with her one true love? The man who had chosen another instead of her? Or should she listen to her head and choose Leo, who can make her happy beyond her wildest dreams?
Jean Fullerton’s East End sagas are wonderful gems that never fail to raise a smile and touch the heart and A Ration Book Wedding is another diamond of a novel that I adored. Francesca is an absolutely terrific heroine readers will cheer for to get the happy ending she so richly deserves and the whole cast of characters in this novel are delightful, eccentric, kind-hearted and so real they will feel like old friends by the last page.
Gripping, hopeful and heart-warming, A Ration Book Wedding is another irresistible read from the Queen of the East End saga, Jean Fullerton.
It’s 1942 and with the Americans having finally joined Britain as one of its allies, it looks like maybe, just maybe, there could be a chink of light at the end of the very dark tunnel England has been trapped in for what seems like forever. Everybody is keen to do their bit for king and country and twenty-three year old Francesca Fabrino is certainly no exception. Working in a factory in East London, Francesca hopes that by throwing herself into her work and into doing her bit, she might stop thinking about the recently married Charlie Brogan, who is with the Eight Army at the moment fighting North Africa. Life does have a habit of giving you what you need, rather than what you want, when you least expect it, and that certainly proves to be the case when she starts a job for the BBC Overseas Department, that propels her into the path of some very interesting people – including one who could well end up turning her entire life upside down.
Count Leo D’Angelo is handsome, charming, debonair and wastes no time in turning Francesca’s head. For the first time in a very long while, Francesca feels like maybe she can start making inroads and move on from her hopeless love for Charlie. Leo is everything she could possibly want in a partner and so much more besides. Dare she take a leap of faith and grab this unexpected chance of happiness with a man who might truly make her happy? But just when Francesca had been about to throw all caution to the wind and embrace a future with Leo, Charlie returns with his marriage in tatters, but his heart finally ready for Francesca. Torn between two men, what is Francesca going to do now?
Should she take this chance to be with her one true love? The man who had chosen another instead of her? Or should she listen to her head and choose Leo, who can make her happy beyond her wildest dreams?
Jean Fullerton’s East End sagas are wonderful gems that never fail to raise a smile and touch the heart and A Ration Book Wedding is another diamond of a novel that I adored. Francesca is an absolutely terrific heroine readers will cheer for to get the happy ending she so richly deserves and the whole cast of characters in this novel are delightful, eccentric, kind-hearted and so real they will feel like old friends by the last page.
Gripping, hopeful and heart-warming, A Ration Book Wedding is another irresistible read from the Queen of the East End saga, Jean Fullerton.
April 4, 2020
A delightful read from this author, Fran Fabrino is working in the new plessey factory, that was the old wartime assemble field, between Leytonstone and Newberry park, London, while operating machinery, listening to German bombs above she was five hundred feet below street level this war work is tiring and dangerous. Fran twenty four years old and single she also helps out with her father Enrico running Alfs cafe when she comes off nightshift making pie and mash for the customers. Mattie Brogan her best friend is now married with a baby, and her brother Charlie Brogan Fran still holding a torch for him but he belongs to another. This book gave me so much joy reading throughout, it's a time when families pull together, I loved every single page, and it leaves your emotions going haywire. You won't want to put it down.
May 8, 2020
It was such a pleasure to re-immerse myself in the lives of the Brogan family! A RATION BOOK WEDDING is the fourth book in this fabulous series and it didn't disappoint. I have been a fan of Jean Fullerton's work for many years because of the mix of romance, family drama, heartbreak and community she incorporates within a family where you get to know every single character as though they live just along the road.
A Ration Book Wedding, set against the backdrop of WWII, introduces the American GIs to London and all the drama their appearance brings. The story's protagonists, Francesca and Charlie have lots to juggle and suffer in order to pursue their seemingly ill-fated union. There are so many threads to this community, and the people, it is a joy to follow each of them along their journey.
Highly recommended!
A Ration Book Wedding, set against the backdrop of WWII, introduces the American GIs to London and all the drama their appearance brings. The story's protagonists, Francesca and Charlie have lots to juggle and suffer in order to pursue their seemingly ill-fated union. There are so many threads to this community, and the people, it is a joy to follow each of them along their journey.
Highly recommended!
March 8, 2020
I have looked forward to getting my nose into this book and Jean Fullerton has not disappointed me.Ration Book Wedding is about the Brogan family and their lives during ww2 Jo Brogan is marrying Tommy so mattie is busy with making the dresses.Francesca decides to change her job so applies to the BBC for a job on Radio Roma,as usual life for the Brogans is never dull until they hear that charlie is coming home after being injured and needs rest.I love reading the Ration Book Series as you feel as though you are there with them all.Thank you Jean Fullerton for writing such lovely books.5*
December 13, 2024
Another good book in the series, this one centres on the love triangle with Charlie, Stella and Francesca. There is also a bit about Jo and Tommy’s upcoming wedding. And more drama with Ida, although I guessed what that was going to be!
Queenie is still by far the best character. I would love a prequel about her as a young woman and the backstory with the Priest. Only thing that was a bit annoying is the convenience of bad characters not surviving the war. It’s too easy a solution.
Queenie is still by far the best character. I would love a prequel about her as a young woman and the backstory with the Priest. Only thing that was a bit annoying is the convenience of bad characters not surviving the war. It’s too easy a solution.
May 14, 2020
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I loved this story and it was another fabulous addition to Ration Book series!
The book had an excellent plot, it was brilliantly written and I loved the writing style and flow – this genre is perfect for the author’s style and she really bring the locations, characters and era to life – I loved stepping back in time with her!
I have read the previous books in this series so couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy of this book, this is the fourth book in the series but it read fine to me as a stand-alone. The other books in the series are also great reads thorough so do please check them out if you like the sound of this one – they are well worth a read too!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a wonderful historical fiction saga read and it was a pleasure turning the pages – very highly recommended!!
I loved this story and it was another fabulous addition to Ration Book series!
The book had an excellent plot, it was brilliantly written and I loved the writing style and flow – this genre is perfect for the author’s style and she really bring the locations, characters and era to life – I loved stepping back in time with her!
I have read the previous books in this series so couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy of this book, this is the fourth book in the series but it read fine to me as a stand-alone. The other books in the series are also great reads thorough so do please check them out if you like the sound of this one – they are well worth a read too!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a wonderful historical fiction saga read and it was a pleasure turning the pages – very highly recommended!!
May 6, 2020
I have loved this series so far, so was really excited to be able to read this latest release. I have loved spending more time with the Brogan family and getting to know Francesca in this book.
I love historical fiction particularly set in London during WWII and dived into this one and quickly lost myself into the comings and goings of the Brogan family.
This is a series that really brings to life the commaraderie of how friends and families pulled together during the war and how they managed to create so much when not a lot was available to them. I love the snippets sprinkled throughout that help reinforce what life was really like living in London during this time.
A superb book from cover to cover, as I read I could feel their happiness and sadness ebbing off the pages. I really hope there is more to come from this family as I absolutely love reading about them.
I love historical fiction particularly set in London during WWII and dived into this one and quickly lost myself into the comings and goings of the Brogan family.
This is a series that really brings to life the commaraderie of how friends and families pulled together during the war and how they managed to create so much when not a lot was available to them. I love the snippets sprinkled throughout that help reinforce what life was really like living in London during this time.
A superb book from cover to cover, as I read I could feel their happiness and sadness ebbing off the pages. I really hope there is more to come from this family as I absolutely love reading about them.
March 8, 2020
I have looked forward to getting my nose into this book and Jean Fullerton has not disappointed me.Ration Book Wedding is about the Brogan family and their lives during ww2 Jo Brogan is marrying Tommy so mattie is busy with making the dresses.Francesca decides to change her job so applies to the BBC for a job on Radio Roma,as usual life for the Brogans is never dull until they hear that charlie is coming home after being injured and needs rest.I love reading the Ration Book Series as you feel as though you are there with them all.Thank you Jean Fullerton for writing such lovely books.5*
April 6, 2020
I love stories set in this era, and have found each book in this series has been well-researched, and delivered so brilliantly, that I feel I'm living the drama alongside the Brogan family.
As the war rages on, Charlie Brogan is injured and returns home to convalesce. He is now married to the loathsome Stella Miggles, and they have a son, Patrick. The cigarette-smoking, good-time girl that she is, Stella leaves Patrick nightly with Ida Brogan while she continues to work in the BonBon club, and takes full advantage of her in-laws generosity.
Cathy Wheeler hasn't spoken to her sister, Mattie McCarthy, since Cathy's husband Stan was convicted of being a Nazi. He is now on parole in the army. Cathy believes it is Mattie's fault that Stan was arrested. But there's another Brogan wedding coming up, Jo is marrying Tommy Sweete and both Mattie and Jo would love to have Cathy back in the fold again.
Francesca Fabrino, who has long held a torch for Charlie, leaves behind factory work to join the BBC Overseas Service, working at Radio Roma. Here she meets Count Leonardo D'Angelo, who her father, Enrico, believes would be an excellent catch for her. Leo is instantly smitten, but Fran still hankers after the married Charlie.
The wonderful Ida struggles on, now that she has Michael as well as Billy to look after. Billy is feeling a bit pushed out now that Jeremiah's son Michael is firmly ensconced in the Brogan family, and he shows it. Holding it all together, Ida is a bit under the weather. Or is it more than that?
A Ration Book Wedding had me hooked from the first page. It picks up the story of the Brogan family a couple of months after the end of A Ration Book Childhood. It's an absolutely enthralling read. It feels so realistic; the people, the family dramas and the backdrop of war; I felt I'd stepped back in time and was part of the story.
I love the strong characters in the Brogan family. I am still immensely fond of Jeremiah's mother, Queenie, and admire her greatly for taking matters into her own hands when Cathy arrives at the Brogan family home in a sorry state. Part of me thinks she did what she did to show Cathy's in-laws there is no messing with the tight-knit Brogans. But part of me wonders whether she intervened before then Brogan men could get themselves into serious trouble. The old lady is a bit fey too - though not always sure what the signs are telling her!
A Ration Book Wedding is another truly great story, well-researched and written, leaving the reader wanting more. And I for one, cannot wait for the next instalment!
As the war rages on, Charlie Brogan is injured and returns home to convalesce. He is now married to the loathsome Stella Miggles, and they have a son, Patrick. The cigarette-smoking, good-time girl that she is, Stella leaves Patrick nightly with Ida Brogan while she continues to work in the BonBon club, and takes full advantage of her in-laws generosity.
Cathy Wheeler hasn't spoken to her sister, Mattie McCarthy, since Cathy's husband Stan was convicted of being a Nazi. He is now on parole in the army. Cathy believes it is Mattie's fault that Stan was arrested. But there's another Brogan wedding coming up, Jo is marrying Tommy Sweete and both Mattie and Jo would love to have Cathy back in the fold again.
Francesca Fabrino, who has long held a torch for Charlie, leaves behind factory work to join the BBC Overseas Service, working at Radio Roma. Here she meets Count Leonardo D'Angelo, who her father, Enrico, believes would be an excellent catch for her. Leo is instantly smitten, but Fran still hankers after the married Charlie.
The wonderful Ida struggles on, now that she has Michael as well as Billy to look after. Billy is feeling a bit pushed out now that Jeremiah's son Michael is firmly ensconced in the Brogan family, and he shows it. Holding it all together, Ida is a bit under the weather. Or is it more than that?
A Ration Book Wedding had me hooked from the first page. It picks up the story of the Brogan family a couple of months after the end of A Ration Book Childhood. It's an absolutely enthralling read. It feels so realistic; the people, the family dramas and the backdrop of war; I felt I'd stepped back in time and was part of the story.
I love the strong characters in the Brogan family. I am still immensely fond of Jeremiah's mother, Queenie, and admire her greatly for taking matters into her own hands when Cathy arrives at the Brogan family home in a sorry state. Part of me thinks she did what she did to show Cathy's in-laws there is no messing with the tight-knit Brogans. But part of me wonders whether she intervened before then Brogan men could get themselves into serious trouble. The old lady is a bit fey too - though not always sure what the signs are telling her!
A Ration Book Wedding is another truly great story, well-researched and written, leaving the reader wanting more. And I for one, cannot wait for the next instalment!
January 31, 2021
I absolutely loved this book, I was drawn into the story right from the very first few pages and it kept my attention throughout. This is book four in the Ration Book series, but I don't think that it would matter if you are not familiar with the previous books, you would soon be drawn into the story of the Brogan family during 1942 WW2 London.
Charlie is the son of Ida and Jeremiah and has been serving in the North African desert and has been wounded in the shoulder resulting in him being shipped back home. His wife is not the type to sit at home waiting for him to return, she would rather spend her time entertaining men in the strip club where she works.
Francesca Fabrino (Fran) has been working nights in a factory making aircraft parts. She is a long time friend of the Brogan family and has always had a soft spot for Charlie. As she is Italian she applies for and gets a job with the BBC Overseas Broadcasting Service. She loves her job and one of her colleagues Count Leo D'Angelo makes an impression on her. Now she has a difficult decision to make, Charlie or Leo? The rest of the family also play a big part in this story and I think that's what makes it so captivating, a large East End family with stories of their own but they all culminate together to make a big part in the story. This book has it all friendships, passion, weddings, East End camaraderie, GI's and even a stripper thrown in! Jean Fullerton certainly keeps the story going through all the series of these books and this one is no exception and I truly hope that there is more to come.
From the moment this book landed on my doormat I couldn't wait to get "stuck in" and while I was reading it, I didn't want it to end.
Loved it from page one and well worthy of being a 5☆ read.
Charlie is the son of Ida and Jeremiah and has been serving in the North African desert and has been wounded in the shoulder resulting in him being shipped back home. His wife is not the type to sit at home waiting for him to return, she would rather spend her time entertaining men in the strip club where she works.
Francesca Fabrino (Fran) has been working nights in a factory making aircraft parts. She is a long time friend of the Brogan family and has always had a soft spot for Charlie. As she is Italian she applies for and gets a job with the BBC Overseas Broadcasting Service. She loves her job and one of her colleagues Count Leo D'Angelo makes an impression on her. Now she has a difficult decision to make, Charlie or Leo? The rest of the family also play a big part in this story and I think that's what makes it so captivating, a large East End family with stories of their own but they all culminate together to make a big part in the story. This book has it all friendships, passion, weddings, East End camaraderie, GI's and even a stripper thrown in! Jean Fullerton certainly keeps the story going through all the series of these books and this one is no exception and I truly hope that there is more to come.
From the moment this book landed on my doormat I couldn't wait to get "stuck in" and while I was reading it, I didn't want it to end.
Loved it from page one and well worthy of being a 5☆ read.
March 5, 2022
Although I have long since been meaning to delve into this series set in the East End during the war, I hadn't yet done so. And despite it being the fourth in the series I was still eager to check it out and hope that it was all I hoped it to be...and it was. A RATION BOOK WEDDING is a captivating heartwarming five star read from beginning to end and best of all it doesn't matter if you've not read the other books - I haven't - because it suffices perfectly well as a standalone.
The East End Ration series centres around the lives and loves of the Brogan family with each book focussing on one or the other as part of their extended family. In this book the attention is on a close family friend Francesca and the Brogan's eldest son, Charlie, amidst wedding preparations for youngest daughter Jo to her intended Tommy Sweete. The fact I have not read any previous book didn't detract from this one in any way. The author expertly weaves brief recaps of previous events with the current plot so that anyone (like me) coming late to the series can do so without feeling lost in amongst all the happenings. This is indeed a credit to the author for her ability to not only keep her loyal readers engaged throughout but to harness new ones with each book, despite it being just part of the greater story.
It's February 1942 and Charlie Brogan has been away fighting in the heat of the North African desert when he is hit by flying shrapnel and sent home to Blighty to recuperate. He is looking forward to seeing his family, his wife Stella and their eight month old son Patrick. But a shock discovery whilst in a military hospital has Charlie demanding immediate discharge to enable him to return back home to the East End as soon as possible. It seems the secret Stella has been harbouring about her own contribution to the war effort that she hoped wouldn't get back to Charlie has been exposed...in more ways than one. And Charlie is far from happy. Needless to say his son Patrick, who is cared for by Charlie's family whilst Stella is working, remains at the Brogans in the company of his father for the foreseeable. And will remain so, if Charlie has anything to do with it. But no judge will separate a mother from her child...
Since the attack on Pearl Harbour just three months prior, the Americans have finally taken notice and joined Britain as one its Allies in its war against Germany. And with the loud brash GIs come many things Britons have not seen for nigh on three years, due to rationing and shortages. But despite being trapped in the darkest days they've seen, everyone is keen to do their bit for King and country and Francesca Fabrino is no exception. After spending long nights twenty five feet below ground level piecing together propellers for Lancaster bombers and dreaming of what can never be with the only man she has ever loved, she throws caution to the wind and applies for a new job as a translator for the BBC Overseas Department. In succeeding, she is then propelled onto a course that could change her life forever.
Charming and debonair Count Leo D'Angelo wastes no time in turning Francesca's head. He courts her and her father alike, who is thrilled that someone respectable (and rich) from the home country has taken a keen interest in his only daughter. For it is his greatest wish that she be happy and hopefully married to someone who is deserving of her. Her hapless love for Charlie Brogan can go nowhere since the man is married, but here is someone who can give his Francesca what she needs. But is it what she wants? Just as she dares to take a leap of faith grab this chance of happiness with Leo, Charlie returns with his marriage in pieces declaring his love for her. Torn between her heart and her head, who will Francesca choose?
As the bombs continue to rain down on London and the air raid sirens continue to sound, something so shocking occurs that has the propensity to change the Brogan family forever. Can they overcome another tragedy and the events that proceed it? Or will their lives be changed forever?
There is so much more to A RATION BOOK WEDDING that you will need to read it to find out. And believe me, you won't be disappointed. Some of it may be predictable, as is with this genre but then that's what makes it so heartwarming. But some of it isn't...and those events will have you turning the pages for the outcome.
Readers will fall in love with the Brogan family, as I have, as well as with Francesca who is Mattie McCarthy's (nee Brogan) best friend. But of all the Brogan clan, I would have to say my favourite would have to be Queenie. Although she featured in the background of this story, she did so on a large scale as a the matriarch of the family and one not to be messed with. I especially loved one particular scene where she took matters into her own hands after her granddaughter Cathy arrives at the family home in a sorry state. I was like "Go Queenie!!"
I love wartime sagas though I have not taken to all of them. It takes a special talent to engage the reader in such a way that they don't ever want to leave the confines of the pages and Jean Fullerton has done just that. I cannot believe I have not read this series before and I have to find a way to squeeze the many other preceding books and those that have come after this one, into my ever growing TBR pile! Because this is one series I don't want to miss out on.
A RATION BOOK WEDDING is a delightful easy read that I devoured in two sittings (last night and today). I just loved everything about it. It is absorbing, captivating and heartwarming with a few surprises along the way. A superbly wonderful read, highlighting the stoicness and camaraderie of the British people during one of their darkest times in history.
I cannot wait to immerse myself into the Brogan family once again. A definite 5 star read, perfect for fans of "Call the Midwife", historical sagas and wartime fiction.
I would like to thank #JeanFullerton, #Netgalley, #CorvusBooks for an ARC of #ARationBookWedding in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
The East End Ration series centres around the lives and loves of the Brogan family with each book focussing on one or the other as part of their extended family. In this book the attention is on a close family friend Francesca and the Brogan's eldest son, Charlie, amidst wedding preparations for youngest daughter Jo to her intended Tommy Sweete. The fact I have not read any previous book didn't detract from this one in any way. The author expertly weaves brief recaps of previous events with the current plot so that anyone (like me) coming late to the series can do so without feeling lost in amongst all the happenings. This is indeed a credit to the author for her ability to not only keep her loyal readers engaged throughout but to harness new ones with each book, despite it being just part of the greater story.
It's February 1942 and Charlie Brogan has been away fighting in the heat of the North African desert when he is hit by flying shrapnel and sent home to Blighty to recuperate. He is looking forward to seeing his family, his wife Stella and their eight month old son Patrick. But a shock discovery whilst in a military hospital has Charlie demanding immediate discharge to enable him to return back home to the East End as soon as possible. It seems the secret Stella has been harbouring about her own contribution to the war effort that she hoped wouldn't get back to Charlie has been exposed...in more ways than one. And Charlie is far from happy. Needless to say his son Patrick, who is cared for by Charlie's family whilst Stella is working, remains at the Brogans in the company of his father for the foreseeable. And will remain so, if Charlie has anything to do with it. But no judge will separate a mother from her child...
Since the attack on Pearl Harbour just three months prior, the Americans have finally taken notice and joined Britain as one its Allies in its war against Germany. And with the loud brash GIs come many things Britons have not seen for nigh on three years, due to rationing and shortages. But despite being trapped in the darkest days they've seen, everyone is keen to do their bit for King and country and Francesca Fabrino is no exception. After spending long nights twenty five feet below ground level piecing together propellers for Lancaster bombers and dreaming of what can never be with the only man she has ever loved, she throws caution to the wind and applies for a new job as a translator for the BBC Overseas Department. In succeeding, she is then propelled onto a course that could change her life forever.
Charming and debonair Count Leo D'Angelo wastes no time in turning Francesca's head. He courts her and her father alike, who is thrilled that someone respectable (and rich) from the home country has taken a keen interest in his only daughter. For it is his greatest wish that she be happy and hopefully married to someone who is deserving of her. Her hapless love for Charlie Brogan can go nowhere since the man is married, but here is someone who can give his Francesca what she needs. But is it what she wants? Just as she dares to take a leap of faith grab this chance of happiness with Leo, Charlie returns with his marriage in pieces declaring his love for her. Torn between her heart and her head, who will Francesca choose?
As the bombs continue to rain down on London and the air raid sirens continue to sound, something so shocking occurs that has the propensity to change the Brogan family forever. Can they overcome another tragedy and the events that proceed it? Or will their lives be changed forever?
There is so much more to A RATION BOOK WEDDING that you will need to read it to find out. And believe me, you won't be disappointed. Some of it may be predictable, as is with this genre but then that's what makes it so heartwarming. But some of it isn't...and those events will have you turning the pages for the outcome.
Readers will fall in love with the Brogan family, as I have, as well as with Francesca who is Mattie McCarthy's (nee Brogan) best friend. But of all the Brogan clan, I would have to say my favourite would have to be Queenie. Although she featured in the background of this story, she did so on a large scale as a the matriarch of the family and one not to be messed with. I especially loved one particular scene where she took matters into her own hands after her granddaughter Cathy arrives at the family home in a sorry state. I was like "Go Queenie!!"
I love wartime sagas though I have not taken to all of them. It takes a special talent to engage the reader in such a way that they don't ever want to leave the confines of the pages and Jean Fullerton has done just that. I cannot believe I have not read this series before and I have to find a way to squeeze the many other preceding books and those that have come after this one, into my ever growing TBR pile! Because this is one series I don't want to miss out on.
A RATION BOOK WEDDING is a delightful easy read that I devoured in two sittings (last night and today). I just loved everything about it. It is absorbing, captivating and heartwarming with a few surprises along the way. A superbly wonderful read, highlighting the stoicness and camaraderie of the British people during one of their darkest times in history.
I cannot wait to immerse myself into the Brogan family once again. A definite 5 star read, perfect for fans of "Call the Midwife", historical sagas and wartime fiction.
I would like to thank #JeanFullerton, #Netgalley, #CorvusBooks for an ARC of #ARationBookWedding in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
November 14, 2020
A husband unaware of his wife’s real occupation during the Second World War was not uncommon, but in this novel set in 1942 imagines a powerful example. Charlie Brogan is fighting with the Eighth Army in a desert in North Africa, his wife Stella is not working in munitions as he believes, and his family who care for his infant son dare not tell him. Moreover, his childhood friend Francesca Fabrino is working underground every night on munitions, and thinking of Charlie who she has long loved from afar. This is the fourth book in a series looking at the unusual Brogan family of London, an Irish Catholic family who include three sisters, Charlie and two younger boys who have become part of the household via different routes. The skilful element of this book is the way that it stands alone, featuring a story that has links back to the previous books, but it has very much its own story which is complete in itself. It is a wartime saga; it has distinctive characters who have to respond to events that are unprecedented in a London now enduring nightly bombing raids. It creates opportunities for women like Francesca to work for the BBC, and also less salubrious activities for women like Stella. This is a book filled with detail of the look, sounds and experiences of the Home Front, full of the texture of the nightly descend to the underground shelters where spaces were established for regular shelterers. It is a book which envelops the reader, engaging interest in the individuals involved, keen to discover what will happen.
Francesca is first seen making aircraft components on a night shift under Wanstead station. At the end of her shift she returns to the cafe that her father runs, struggling to maintain a service in the face of local bombing. She thinks of Charlie, away in Africa but also married to another woman. Charlie’s life in a tent “hundreds of miles from civilisation” has few comforts, especially as his wife Stella’s letters are virtually non existent. He longs to meet his small son Patrick, who he only knows from a photograph. Stella Brogan is appearing on a stage as “Salome of the Mysterious East”, dancing a solo which involves removing virtually all her clothing. Charlie’s mother Ida is well aware of her daughter in law’s actual employment, but Stella threatens her with taking Patrick from her nightly care if she tells Charlie. Queenie, grandmother and matriarch of the Brogan family, is far more blunt on the subject of Stella’s morals than anyone else. When Charlie is returned home injured and he discovers the truth about Stella, life gets more intense. Francesca is offered a job with the BBC, and meets someone who distracts her thoughts from Charlie. As the lives of Charlie’s sisters continues alongside this main story, there are themes such as domestic violence tackled, which leads to probably my favourite line in the novel, from Queenie “Now Stan knows our mind on the matter...perhaps we can be about our victuals”.
This is a vibrant and beautifully written book which really engages the reader from the first page, and maintains interest throughout. The characters seem to come alive and their reality is fascinating. The disastrous marriage of Charlie and Stella becomes a central theme of the novel, and the fallout affects so many, not least Francesca. It is a complete story in itself, but the references to past and to an extent future events give it an extra dimension. It handles a wartime wedding brilliantly. I think that this is a most enjoyable book which I recommend to anyone who enjoys an engrossing read.
Francesca is first seen making aircraft components on a night shift under Wanstead station. At the end of her shift she returns to the cafe that her father runs, struggling to maintain a service in the face of local bombing. She thinks of Charlie, away in Africa but also married to another woman. Charlie’s life in a tent “hundreds of miles from civilisation” has few comforts, especially as his wife Stella’s letters are virtually non existent. He longs to meet his small son Patrick, who he only knows from a photograph. Stella Brogan is appearing on a stage as “Salome of the Mysterious East”, dancing a solo which involves removing virtually all her clothing. Charlie’s mother Ida is well aware of her daughter in law’s actual employment, but Stella threatens her with taking Patrick from her nightly care if she tells Charlie. Queenie, grandmother and matriarch of the Brogan family, is far more blunt on the subject of Stella’s morals than anyone else. When Charlie is returned home injured and he discovers the truth about Stella, life gets more intense. Francesca is offered a job with the BBC, and meets someone who distracts her thoughts from Charlie. As the lives of Charlie’s sisters continues alongside this main story, there are themes such as domestic violence tackled, which leads to probably my favourite line in the novel, from Queenie “Now Stan knows our mind on the matter...perhaps we can be about our victuals”.
This is a vibrant and beautifully written book which really engages the reader from the first page, and maintains interest throughout. The characters seem to come alive and their reality is fascinating. The disastrous marriage of Charlie and Stella becomes a central theme of the novel, and the fallout affects so many, not least Francesca. It is a complete story in itself, but the references to past and to an extent future events give it an extra dimension. It handles a wartime wedding brilliantly. I think that this is a most enjoyable book which I recommend to anyone who enjoys an engrossing read.
May 4, 2020
A Ration Book Wedding is the fourth book in the Ration Book series by Jean Fullerton. You don't need to read the rest of the series because this one can be read as a standalone...BUT I am glad that I read the other books first because it really is lovely connecting with all the family members on a deeper level having read more about them. I feel as if they are my family and although the Brogan family aren't perfect, I love them!
In an earlier book, we learn that Francesca Fabrino, a good friend of the Brogan family has a huge crush on Joe Brogan. Her heart is broken when he never looks at her as more than his sister's best friend and then marries Stella, a woman with a bad reputation. Joe can't see the wood for the bosoms when it comes to his wife and he believes that she will settle into married life. But while the cat's away the mouse will play. Joe goes abroad to fight in the war and Stella takes on a job as a stripper/exotic dancer in a club. Of course, Joe knows nothing about it, he thinks she is working in a factory and looking after their baby son. Will he find out the truth about her?
Francesca still hurts over her unrequited love but when she takes on a new job as an interpreter for an Italian radio program at the BBC she meets Leo. He is a very rich and handsome Italian count and he is smitten with Francesca as soon as he sees her. He can offer her the world, but will she be able to forget her love for Joe and start a new life with a new man?
Who is the one to have the Ration Book Wedding, one of Joe's sisters is supposed to be getting married, but perhaps Francesca is the one who will be married instead? Or maybe both of them will?
I don't want to say anything else about the plot because I don't want to give anything away. What I will say is that I loved this book from the first page to the last and I couldn't read it quickly enough to see what would happen and if there would be a happy ending. More than one couple has a happy ending which made me smile. A wartime book can include the drama of the fighting and injuries and the distress of loved ones being lost, but as long as there is an equal amount of hope, love and happiness thrown in as well then I will always enjoy the story. This book had the perfect mix and as with every book in the series, I am more than happy to recommend you read them. I am sure you will love the Brogans as much as I do, and if you have read the rest of the books you will appreciate how each character has grown. Some you might start off not liking but when you finish this book you will see them in a new light.
I hope there will be more books in the series because there is at least one more character that I would like to see have a better, happier life, and another having their comeuppance. I will say no more. I just wish I could give this book more than 5 stars!
In an earlier book, we learn that Francesca Fabrino, a good friend of the Brogan family has a huge crush on Joe Brogan. Her heart is broken when he never looks at her as more than his sister's best friend and then marries Stella, a woman with a bad reputation. Joe can't see the wood for the bosoms when it comes to his wife and he believes that she will settle into married life. But while the cat's away the mouse will play. Joe goes abroad to fight in the war and Stella takes on a job as a stripper/exotic dancer in a club. Of course, Joe knows nothing about it, he thinks she is working in a factory and looking after their baby son. Will he find out the truth about her?
Francesca still hurts over her unrequited love but when she takes on a new job as an interpreter for an Italian radio program at the BBC she meets Leo. He is a very rich and handsome Italian count and he is smitten with Francesca as soon as he sees her. He can offer her the world, but will she be able to forget her love for Joe and start a new life with a new man?
Who is the one to have the Ration Book Wedding, one of Joe's sisters is supposed to be getting married, but perhaps Francesca is the one who will be married instead? Or maybe both of them will?
I don't want to say anything else about the plot because I don't want to give anything away. What I will say is that I loved this book from the first page to the last and I couldn't read it quickly enough to see what would happen and if there would be a happy ending. More than one couple has a happy ending which made me smile. A wartime book can include the drama of the fighting and injuries and the distress of loved ones being lost, but as long as there is an equal amount of hope, love and happiness thrown in as well then I will always enjoy the story. This book had the perfect mix and as with every book in the series, I am more than happy to recommend you read them. I am sure you will love the Brogans as much as I do, and if you have read the rest of the books you will appreciate how each character has grown. Some you might start off not liking but when you finish this book you will see them in a new light.
I hope there will be more books in the series because there is at least one more character that I would like to see have a better, happier life, and another having their comeuppance. I will say no more. I just wish I could give this book more than 5 stars!
May 7, 2020
Another terrific read in this fabulous series!
Once again, we're back in the heart of the Brogan family as the Blitz rages around them. With Charlie now married and currently serving in North Africa, Francesca Fabrino still holds a candle for him and she, like the rest of the family are well aware of his wife's 'contribution' to the war effort. Will Fran ever manage to move on? Perhaps a new job will fill the hole in her heart . . .
I love everything about this series. All the books follow each and every member of the family and really epitomises the spirit on the Home Front during WWII. I especially enjoy that only a brief mention is ever made of preceding books and only when needed to explain a current situation. Jean Fullerton pens a wonderful flowing tale of unpredictability with a superb cast of characters; several times I pondered on where a story line was heading. There are more than a few surprises along the way and I revelled in all the details - it's like getting to know an old friend all over again. More please! Definitely worth all five sparkling stars!
Once again, we're back in the heart of the Brogan family as the Blitz rages around them. With Charlie now married and currently serving in North Africa, Francesca Fabrino still holds a candle for him and she, like the rest of the family are well aware of his wife's 'contribution' to the war effort. Will Fran ever manage to move on? Perhaps a new job will fill the hole in her heart . . .
I love everything about this series. All the books follow each and every member of the family and really epitomises the spirit on the Home Front during WWII. I especially enjoy that only a brief mention is ever made of preceding books and only when needed to explain a current situation. Jean Fullerton pens a wonderful flowing tale of unpredictability with a superb cast of characters; several times I pondered on where a story line was heading. There are more than a few surprises along the way and I revelled in all the details - it's like getting to know an old friend all over again. More please! Definitely worth all five sparkling stars!
July 19, 2020
Having read and enjoyed A Ration Book Childhood back in February 2020, it was great to catch up with the Brogan family as they prepared for the wedding of Jo and Tommy. I was able to read book three without having read the previous books, and I’m sure the same could be said about book four if you haven’t read the previous books. However I do recommend reading the earlier books if you can.
Although the book has wedding in the title, a great deal of the story looks at how Charlie’s marriage is falling apart and how the Brogan family are coping with the repeated bombings in London and the lack of food. I love the small details in the story used to bring wartime London to life – the food, the clothes, the sounds during the bombing etc.
I’m assuming that this is the last in the series, but personally I would love to know more about the Brogan family. If you enjoy historical fiction set during World War 2, then I recommend treating yourself to a copy – hopefully you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Although the book has wedding in the title, a great deal of the story looks at how Charlie’s marriage is falling apart and how the Brogan family are coping with the repeated bombings in London and the lack of food. I love the small details in the story used to bring wartime London to life – the food, the clothes, the sounds during the bombing etc.
I’m assuming that this is the last in the series, but personally I would love to know more about the Brogan family. If you enjoy historical fiction set during World War 2, then I recommend treating yourself to a copy – hopefully you will enjoy it as much as I did.
September 19, 2020
The Ration Book series is one of my new favourite series. I have a new love for historical fiction, particularly those love stories around WWII, all thanks to Jean Fullerton.
In The Ration Book Childhood you have a story around the Brogan family, which is a large one! In this book, the children are all grown up.
Francesa is a close family friend of the Brogan's after spending time with them in her childhood. She has always loved Charlie Brogan, but Charlie is married to Stella and has a son.
Charlie returns from North Africa to find her wife is a stripper and isn't being faithful, it's more than just looking after the spirits of the troops!
Fran starts a new job at BBC and means a Count, Leo. Leo is a wealthy aristocrat and could provide her with a beautiful life, and he loves her. But Charlie's married is ruined and he has declared his love for her. Fran has a huge choice to make that is tearing her heart.
It is a great book, and I will be making sure to continue with the other books. I would also like to read other of Jean Fullerton's books too.
In The Ration Book Childhood you have a story around the Brogan family, which is a large one! In this book, the children are all grown up.
Francesa is a close family friend of the Brogan's after spending time with them in her childhood. She has always loved Charlie Brogan, but Charlie is married to Stella and has a son.
Charlie returns from North Africa to find her wife is a stripper and isn't being faithful, it's more than just looking after the spirits of the troops!
Fran starts a new job at BBC and means a Count, Leo. Leo is a wealthy aristocrat and could provide her with a beautiful life, and he loves her. But Charlie's married is ruined and he has declared his love for her. Fran has a huge choice to make that is tearing her heart.
It is a great book, and I will be making sure to continue with the other books. I would also like to read other of Jean Fullerton's books too.
January 18, 2021
'A Ration Book Wedding' is told mainly from Francesca Fabrino (best friend of Mattie Brogan, whose part of the family all but in name) and some of the Brogans family members perspectives. Set in 1942, it focuses mainly on Francesca's family life, her constant battle with her love of Charlie Brogan, whose already married, even after meeting a Count who has eyes for Francesca only, finding it difficult to leave her love for Charlie aside. The turbulent marriage of Charlie and Stella; updates on the Brogans expanding family and the upcoming wedding of Jo and Tommy. Lots going on which will keep you gripped from the beginning, until the end.
Whilst this isn't my normal genre of choice, this is the second book I've read in the Ration Book series and they don't disappoint. Told around the Brogan family, leaves you wanting to read more in the series. If you've not read any in this set previously, it won't effect your reading of this book, definitely worth reading even if it's not your preferred genre. I look forward to reading more.
Whilst this isn't my normal genre of choice, this is the second book I've read in the Ration Book series and they don't disappoint. Told around the Brogan family, leaves you wanting to read more in the series. If you've not read any in this set previously, it won't effect your reading of this book, definitely worth reading even if it's not your preferred genre. I look forward to reading more.
October 19, 2020
This war time saga is well written and addictive reading.
It tells the tale of Francesca and the lives of the Brogan family. Francesca has known Charlie since childhood and is in love with him but he is married to Stella. They had a small child called Patrick.
Francesca meets Leo at work and he proposes marriage to her.
A wonderful and well researched novel of the second world war and the characters are very visual.
A story of society and class and what is expected of you at that time.
This story goes back and to with the characters, but this just adds to the illustration of them and is not in the slightest confusing.
It will make you want to read more from this author.
This book is highly recommended for lovers of family sagas and historical novels.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Reader's First for allowing me to read in return for a review.
It tells the tale of Francesca and the lives of the Brogan family. Francesca has known Charlie since childhood and is in love with him but he is married to Stella. They had a small child called Patrick.
Francesca meets Leo at work and he proposes marriage to her.
A wonderful and well researched novel of the second world war and the characters are very visual.
A story of society and class and what is expected of you at that time.
This story goes back and to with the characters, but this just adds to the illustration of them and is not in the slightest confusing.
It will make you want to read more from this author.
This book is highly recommended for lovers of family sagas and historical novels.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Reader's First for allowing me to read in return for a review.
April 16, 2024
This is the fourth book in The Ration Book Series and this instalment focuses mainly on Charlie Brogan and Francesca Fabrino.
It’s now 1942 and Francesca starts a new job as an Italian translator, where she meets Count Leonardo D’Angelo. Realising that she needs to move on from her unrequited love for her best friend’s brother, Charlie Brogan, Francesca soon succumbs to Leo’s charms. But as Charlie returns home injured from active duty, with his marriage to Stella in ruins, can Francesca truly put her love for him aside?
A Ration Book Wedding also introduces the Americans to the war and all of the drama that entails.
I don’t want to add any further details or spoilers, in case you are yet to catch up on the series, but as with the previous three books in this series, I really enjoyed this chapter in the lives of the Brogan family.
It’s now 1942 and Francesca starts a new job as an Italian translator, where she meets Count Leonardo D’Angelo. Realising that she needs to move on from her unrequited love for her best friend’s brother, Charlie Brogan, Francesca soon succumbs to Leo’s charms. But as Charlie returns home injured from active duty, with his marriage to Stella in ruins, can Francesca truly put her love for him aside?
A Ration Book Wedding also introduces the Americans to the war and all of the drama that entails.
I don’t want to add any further details or spoilers, in case you are yet to catch up on the series, but as with the previous three books in this series, I really enjoyed this chapter in the lives of the Brogan family.
May 10, 2020
London in 1942 and the nightly bombing continue. Life goes on for the Brogans in the East End, but it is never easy. There's a web of deceit, lies and secrets as the family try to get through the war. The complex characters and authentic historical setting make this an engaging read.
The story portrays the sense of community and the effects of rationing believably. Getting ready for a family wedding has its problems. Francesa, a close family friend, is torn between new love and requiting a long-held desire.
This is an easy book to like. It's another excellent chapter in a relevant relatable wartime saga.
I received a copy of this book from Atlantic Books-Corvus via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The story portrays the sense of community and the effects of rationing believably. Getting ready for a family wedding has its problems. Francesa, a close family friend, is torn between new love and requiting a long-held desire.
This is an easy book to like. It's another excellent chapter in a relevant relatable wartime saga.
I received a copy of this book from Atlantic Books-Corvus via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
June 17, 2020
I'm a huge wartime novel fan and I just love these "slice of life" kitchen sink style stories and the way the author keeps on with the same family and their personal situation.
In this tale we are told all about Charlie Brogan and his disastrous marriage, he is. We'd to Stella who is a hellcat but realises too late he is really in love with Francesca Fabrino who in her turn has worshipped and loved him since basically their school days.
But Francesca has given up hope, moved on and is now engaged to Leo so how can this be resolved?
It seems like the lovers are doomed...
A perfect Wartime saga, perfect for fans of Cookson and Cox or just readers who enjoy the time period and a good old yarn.
A brilliant read.
In this tale we are told all about Charlie Brogan and his disastrous marriage, he is. We'd to Stella who is a hellcat but realises too late he is really in love with Francesca Fabrino who in her turn has worshipped and loved him since basically their school days.
But Francesca has given up hope, moved on and is now engaged to Leo so how can this be resolved?
It seems like the lovers are doomed...
A perfect Wartime saga, perfect for fans of Cookson and Cox or just readers who enjoy the time period and a good old yarn.
A brilliant read.
June 20, 2020
This is a lovely story and a great continuation of the series.
Charlie Brogan has been hit by shrapnel so is sent home but what he finds when he returns blows his life apart.
His wife Stella is working at a strip club and neglecting their son.
Their marriage is all but over and finally Charlie realises he married the wrong woman and is really in love with Francesca Fabrino.
But there is one snag, after all these years of hero worshipping Charlie from afar and watching him wed Stella she has given up hope and waiting for something that could never be.
She is now engaged to Leo.
Is it too late for the luckless pair?
A brilliant follow on from the other novels and a must read for historical fiction fans.
Charlie Brogan has been hit by shrapnel so is sent home but what he finds when he returns blows his life apart.
His wife Stella is working at a strip club and neglecting their son.
Their marriage is all but over and finally Charlie realises he married the wrong woman and is really in love with Francesca Fabrino.
But there is one snag, after all these years of hero worshipping Charlie from afar and watching him wed Stella she has given up hope and waiting for something that could never be.
She is now engaged to Leo.
Is it too late for the luckless pair?
A brilliant follow on from the other novels and a must read for historical fiction fans.
July 31, 2020
I received this book via the First reads website. What a lovely feel good story. As I read this during the UK lockdown it certainly made the time go faster. People moan today but this show the real hardship people experienced during the WW2.
The style of writing is easy to read and flows nicely, it is easy to connect with all of the characters, their stories and you really feel as though you are part of the Brogan family. I had not previously read any of the other ration book series but this can easily be read as a stand alone novel.
The story centres around the love between two of the central characters, you know and hope that all will come well in the end, but the twists and turns make it an interesting read.
I will definitely be looking for and reading more in the series.
The style of writing is easy to read and flows nicely, it is easy to connect with all of the characters, their stories and you really feel as though you are part of the Brogan family. I had not previously read any of the other ration book series but this can easily be read as a stand alone novel.
The story centres around the love between two of the central characters, you know and hope that all will come well in the end, but the twists and turns make it an interesting read.
I will definitely be looking for and reading more in the series.
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