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Woolworths #0.5
A Mother Forever
From the bestselling author of The Woolworths Girls, Elaine Everest, this is the moving story of one woman's journey through the hardest trials of her life – and how the love of friends and family will pull her through. This is the tale of Ruby, and how it all began . . .1905: Ruby Caselton may only be twenty-five years old but she already has the weight of the world on her shoulders. Heavily pregnant with her second child, penniless and exhausted, she is moving her family into a new home. The Caseltons left their last place when they couldn’t pay the rent, but Ruby’s husband Eddie has promised this will be a fresh start for them all. And Ruby desperately hopes that this time he will keep his word.With five-year-old George at her feet and her mother having a cross word for everyone and everything, life is never dull at number thirteen Alexandra Road. It doesn’t take long before Eddie loses another job and once again hits the bottle. It’s up to Ruby to hold them all together, through thick and thin. She remembers the kind, caring man Eddie once was and just can’t give up on him entirely. What she doesn’t know is that Eddie has a secret, one so dark that he can’t bear to tell even Ruby . . .Through Ruby’s grit and determination, she keeps food on the table and finds herself a community of neighbours on Alexandra Road. Stella, the matriarch from across the way, soon becomes a friend and confidante. She even dreams that Ruby will ditch the useless Eddie and take up with her eldest son, Frank. But when war breaks out in 1914, the heartbreaks and losses that follow will fracture their community, driving both Stella and Ruby to breaking point. Will their men ever return to them?'A warm, tender tale of friendship and love' – Milly Johnson on The Woolworths GirlsA prequel to The Woolworths Girls, A Mother Forever can also be read as a compelling novel in its own right.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2021
53 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Everest
23 books190 followersElaine Everest is the Sunday Times Bestselling author of historical sagas including The Woolworths Girls series, The Teashop Girls series and other popular books.
She is represented by the Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency Ltd.
She is represented by the Caroline Sheldon Literary Agency Ltd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 18, 2021
Ruby
I absolutely loved this book reading Ruby's story was amazing we knew from woolworths girls books how strong she is but from her early life with Eddie it would of broke some people but Ruby soldiered on a real well deserved 5 stars.
I absolutely loved this book reading Ruby's story was amazing we knew from woolworths girls books how strong she is but from her early life with Eddie it would of broke some people but Ruby soldiered on a real well deserved 5 stars.
February 24, 2021
Having met Ruby before, as an old lady in the Woolworths books, what a joy it was to go back and meet her as a young woman! Newly arrived in Alexandra Road in 1905, Ruby is immediately thrown into new friendships, troubles at home, and tragedy. Elaine keeps the pace rattling along through the book as the years pass, tackling death, motherhood, a fractured marriage, friendship, the horrors of the First World War, and even the first gay couple to enter her novels, all with her great storytelling skills. I loved spotting already familiar characters as their younger selves- George, Irene, Pat, Maureen, Bob and Mike to name but a few. I felt I already knew a big secret because I knew what would happen to them years later! I knew that little five year old George's promise to name his future daughter Sarah would one day come true, and what a lovely girl she would turn out to be. The epilogue chapter is a nice touch, lightly filling in the later years and bringing Ruby into 1945 to catch up with where she was at the end of the last Woolworths book. I loved every minute of this book, and every page!
February 27, 2022
A Mother Forever is The People’s Friend magazine recommendations, and I couldn’t agree more it’s a stunning story. I first was Introduced by author Elaine Everest through her bestselling amazing novels The Woolworths Girls. I’m delighted to have read the paperback A Mother Forever, about Ruby who is the heart of her family, even when her own heart is broken. I recommend reading this book or all books by author Elaine Everest.
March 4, 2021
Another wonderful novel from the pen (laptop?) of Elaine Everest.
As Ruby arrives at her new home with her five year old son and her mother in tow, she hopes that this will be a house they can settle in. Having had to do many a moonlight flit due to unpaid rent, she needs her husband Eddie to knuckle down and stop losing jobs. As he turns to drink more and more, it falls to Ruby to provide for the family on her own. She can't quite turn her back on Eddie though - she remembers his gentle, loving nature when they first met and keeps hoping that version will appear again one day. Making good friends with neighbours and being able to depend on that friendship keeps Ruby moving forward; her friend Stella hopes that one day Ruby and her eldest, Frank, will make a go of things. Then comes the outbreak of war in 1914 and things will never be the same again for families - and friends. It's an uncertain life for the women waiting at home for the men who went to war.
I always know I'm in for a good, well-researched read when I being a book by this author, and this one is no different. I was interested to discover that this is a prequel to The Woolworth Girls as that is one I haven't managed to fit into my list (yet). Ruby comes across as a strong woman at a time when Britain depended on strong women to keep the home fires burning, look after children, elderly parents, do their bit for the war by volunteering AND go out to work!
This is an enthralling story of a woman who doesn't need to search for her sorrows yet digs her heels in and does anything and everything she can to stay in the home she loves. Deftly written with a fine cast of believable characters and scenarios, there is never a dull moment; everyone's lives are cleverly entwined and there is always something to grab the reader's attention. I particularly like that by the final word, every thread is neatly tied off leaving nothing to play on my mind. If you don't normally read the author's notes before and after the story, I would urge you to do so with this one - there are some very adroit points which can only add to the reader's experience. An excellent novel which I'm happy to recommend and give 4.5*.
As Ruby arrives at her new home with her five year old son and her mother in tow, she hopes that this will be a house they can settle in. Having had to do many a moonlight flit due to unpaid rent, she needs her husband Eddie to knuckle down and stop losing jobs. As he turns to drink more and more, it falls to Ruby to provide for the family on her own. She can't quite turn her back on Eddie though - she remembers his gentle, loving nature when they first met and keeps hoping that version will appear again one day. Making good friends with neighbours and being able to depend on that friendship keeps Ruby moving forward; her friend Stella hopes that one day Ruby and her eldest, Frank, will make a go of things. Then comes the outbreak of war in 1914 and things will never be the same again for families - and friends. It's an uncertain life for the women waiting at home for the men who went to war.
I always know I'm in for a good, well-researched read when I being a book by this author, and this one is no different. I was interested to discover that this is a prequel to The Woolworth Girls as that is one I haven't managed to fit into my list (yet). Ruby comes across as a strong woman at a time when Britain depended on strong women to keep the home fires burning, look after children, elderly parents, do their bit for the war by volunteering AND go out to work!
This is an enthralling story of a woman who doesn't need to search for her sorrows yet digs her heels in and does anything and everything she can to stay in the home she loves. Deftly written with a fine cast of believable characters and scenarios, there is never a dull moment; everyone's lives are cleverly entwined and there is always something to grab the reader's attention. I particularly like that by the final word, every thread is neatly tied off leaving nothing to play on my mind. If you don't normally read the author's notes before and after the story, I would urge you to do so with this one - there are some very adroit points which can only add to the reader's experience. An excellent novel which I'm happy to recommend and give 4.5*.
August 10, 2021
If you can get past the sometime asinine elements in this book, Elaine Everest writes some very unique plots. Her characters are strong and likeable.
I almost put it down early on, I’m happy I didn’t as it’s the sort of book I find I’m needing in these crazy virus filled times. It’s not a top pick, I enjoyed her Woolworths girls and Teashop girls series, most particularly I found her last book.. Christmas with the Teashop Girls a great feel good book, with excellent plot twists & such a feeling of camaraderie such as what we’re sharing with each other right now 👍
I almost put it down early on, I’m happy I didn’t as it’s the sort of book I find I’m needing in these crazy virus filled times. It’s not a top pick, I enjoyed her Woolworths girls and Teashop girls series, most particularly I found her last book.. Christmas with the Teashop Girls a great feel good book, with excellent plot twists & such a feeling of camaraderie such as what we’re sharing with each other right now 👍
March 5, 2021
I have been a fan of Elaine’s books for quite a while now. In fact I have loved her work ever since I had the good fortune to pick up a copy of her first book in the Woolworths series, which is called ‘The Woolworths Girls’. Ever since then I have greedily grabbed a copy of each book that she has released and I hibernate until I have finished the book. Elaine’s latest book is called ‘A Mother Forever’, which features Ruby Caselton, who is later to become a popular character in ‘The Woolworths Girls’ series and focuses on her earlier years. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Mother Forever’ but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely adore the character of Ruby Caselton and I always have done. In fact Ruby began to feel more like a friend than a character in the book. Ruby is certainly put through the emotional wringer in ‘A Mother Forever’ and then some. I won’t go into too much details as I would hate to give spoilers away but what I will say is that I felt like jumping into the pages of the book to give Ruby a reassuring hug and a shoulder to cry on. I also found myself wanting to sort out a certain no good husband of hers, who treats her worse than dirt. Ruby is kind, compassionate, sensitive, loyal, determined, stubborn and a fantastic mother and friend.
As soon as I started to read, I just knew that it was pointless trying to make plans for the rest of the day, because I wouldn’t be able to put the book down. That is exactly what happened too. I literally read ‘A Mother Forever’ in a single day, which is pretty rare for me as I usually find it hard to concentrate and I am easily distracted but not in this case! I simply had to find out what happened to Ruby and whether or not she got the happy ever after ending that she so deserved. I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say farewell to Ruby and her family.
‘A Mother Forever’ is superbly written but then I think that to be true of all of Elaine’s books to date. She certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into what proves to be a compelling and emotional read. Elaine has a way of getting under your skin and you find yourself becoming emotionally involved. In fact reading ‘A Mother Forever’ seemed much like being on one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Elaine certainly doesn’t shy away from discussing difficult subjects but she does it with compassion and honesty. Elaine has clearly done a lot of research into the social history of the time and this shone through in her writing. I found ‘A Mother Forever’ to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed every single second of ‘A Mother Forever’ and I would certainly recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Elaine’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I absolutely adore the character of Ruby Caselton and I always have done. In fact Ruby began to feel more like a friend than a character in the book. Ruby is certainly put through the emotional wringer in ‘A Mother Forever’ and then some. I won’t go into too much details as I would hate to give spoilers away but what I will say is that I felt like jumping into the pages of the book to give Ruby a reassuring hug and a shoulder to cry on. I also found myself wanting to sort out a certain no good husband of hers, who treats her worse than dirt. Ruby is kind, compassionate, sensitive, loyal, determined, stubborn and a fantastic mother and friend.
As soon as I started to read, I just knew that it was pointless trying to make plans for the rest of the day, because I wouldn’t be able to put the book down. That is exactly what happened too. I literally read ‘A Mother Forever’ in a single day, which is pretty rare for me as I usually find it hard to concentrate and I am easily distracted but not in this case! I simply had to find out what happened to Ruby and whether or not she got the happy ever after ending that she so deserved. I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say farewell to Ruby and her family.
‘A Mother Forever’ is superbly written but then I think that to be true of all of Elaine’s books to date. She certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into what proves to be a compelling and emotional read. Elaine has a way of getting under your skin and you find yourself becoming emotionally involved. In fact reading ‘A Mother Forever’ seemed much like being on one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Elaine certainly doesn’t shy away from discussing difficult subjects but she does it with compassion and honesty. Elaine has clearly done a lot of research into the social history of the time and this shone through in her writing. I found ‘A Mother Forever’ to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed every single second of ‘A Mother Forever’ and I would certainly recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Elaine’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
February 28, 2021
A Mother Forever follows the trials and tribulations of young Ruby Caselton who we first meet in 1905, heavily pregnant and moving into the home she’s always dreamed of. Little does she know the problems which she will have to face over the next few years. If you have read Elaine Everest’s books about The Woolworths Girls you may recognise Ruby (and indeed quite a few of the other characters) as she appears as an older character in those books. This then is Ruby’s backstory and a completely standalone novel.
My goodness, Elaine Everest put Ruby through some difficult times! I won’t go into them but it’s fair to say that Ruby’s life was not easy and that she had to face many difficulties not of her own making. Many came about because of her husband Eddie, who flits in and out of her life. Thankfully, Ruby was a strong and resourceful woman and despite everything she had to face, she was determined that she would keep her little house and give her son George the best life she could. Her own mother wasn’t always the best support, often blaming Ruby’s many problems on her choice of husband. Thankfully, she found great encouragement and friendship with the family across the road, with Stella being like a second mother to her.
When war comes, Ruby and her friends and neighbours face a lot of new challenges and like most people had their fair share of sorrow and loss to bear. The strength of community came through really strongly here with the neighbours rallying round to support each other as best they could in trying times. I particularly liked the friendship which grew between Ruby and Frank over the years and the way they were both always there for each other.
No matter what happened to Ruby throughout the book, at its heart was her love for her family and her fierce determination to protect and provide for them no matter what. As the title of the book suggests, being a mother was so important to her and her love for all her children was so touching. A Mother Forever is a heart-warming nostalgic read and you will be swept up in the characters’ lives. It is a must-read for fans of historical saga fiction.
My goodness, Elaine Everest put Ruby through some difficult times! I won’t go into them but it’s fair to say that Ruby’s life was not easy and that she had to face many difficulties not of her own making. Many came about because of her husband Eddie, who flits in and out of her life. Thankfully, Ruby was a strong and resourceful woman and despite everything she had to face, she was determined that she would keep her little house and give her son George the best life she could. Her own mother wasn’t always the best support, often blaming Ruby’s many problems on her choice of husband. Thankfully, she found great encouragement and friendship with the family across the road, with Stella being like a second mother to her.
When war comes, Ruby and her friends and neighbours face a lot of new challenges and like most people had their fair share of sorrow and loss to bear. The strength of community came through really strongly here with the neighbours rallying round to support each other as best they could in trying times. I particularly liked the friendship which grew between Ruby and Frank over the years and the way they were both always there for each other.
No matter what happened to Ruby throughout the book, at its heart was her love for her family and her fierce determination to protect and provide for them no matter what. As the title of the book suggests, being a mother was so important to her and her love for all her children was so touching. A Mother Forever is a heart-warming nostalgic read and you will be swept up in the characters’ lives. It is a must-read for fans of historical saga fiction.
March 20, 2021
Elaine Everest talks of the facial reconstruction of soldiers during the war by Major Harold Gillies when one of her neighbours is in the hospital where he worked in Sidcup in Kent. His facial reconstruction work is also talked about in the book "My Dear I wanted to Tell You" by Louisa Young.
Elaine also talks about the girls in the munitions factories, so if you read Rosie Archer's series about The Munitions Girls / The Canary Girls / The Bomb Girls, you can read more of these brave ladies.
A very well researched and interesting book.
Elaine also talks about the girls in the munitions factories, so if you read Rosie Archer's series about The Munitions Girls / The Canary Girls / The Bomb Girls, you can read more of these brave ladies.
A very well researched and interesting book.
March 11, 2021
I really enjoy Elaine Everest's writing and A Mother Forever is my favourite of hers so far. It's a prequel to the popular Woolworths Girls' series (which I'm forever kicking myself for not reading yet - I'll get there!) so fans of that series may recognise some of the names.
It's the story of plucky Ruby Caselton and her family. In 1905, as the book begins, she's moving her family into Alexandra Road in Erith, the best house she's ever been able to live in. She's with her husband, Eddie, her mother, her son, George, and she's about to give birth to another child. It's fair to say that throughout the course of the book, nothing really goes to plan for Ruby but meeting the Green family on that very first day in Erith makes her some lifelong friends.
In the best saga fashion, A Mother Forever takes our characters and thoroughly puts them through the mill. Ruby has a lot to deal with but she's a fantastic person, strong yet homely, the best kind of friend. I loved the journey she went on and how everything kind of ends up going full circle for her.
The story takes in the horrific events of the First World War and Everest deals with it with sensitivity, which brought tears to my eyes. There's so much history contained in these pages, with the explosion at the W.V. Gibert munition works included too, along with the death of a king and the coronation of a new one, and the Spanish flu. I loved the setting too. Alexandra Road and its surrounds was brought to life and I felt I knew the area and the characters who lived there so well.
This is a fantastic saga that gripped me from page 1 and didn't let me go until the end. It's full of the trials and tribulations of family life, especially in the early years of the 20th century, and it's written with warmth and compassion. I loved it!
It's the story of plucky Ruby Caselton and her family. In 1905, as the book begins, she's moving her family into Alexandra Road in Erith, the best house she's ever been able to live in. She's with her husband, Eddie, her mother, her son, George, and she's about to give birth to another child. It's fair to say that throughout the course of the book, nothing really goes to plan for Ruby but meeting the Green family on that very first day in Erith makes her some lifelong friends.
In the best saga fashion, A Mother Forever takes our characters and thoroughly puts them through the mill. Ruby has a lot to deal with but she's a fantastic person, strong yet homely, the best kind of friend. I loved the journey she went on and how everything kind of ends up going full circle for her.
The story takes in the horrific events of the First World War and Everest deals with it with sensitivity, which brought tears to my eyes. There's so much history contained in these pages, with the explosion at the W.V. Gibert munition works included too, along with the death of a king and the coronation of a new one, and the Spanish flu. I loved the setting too. Alexandra Road and its surrounds was brought to life and I felt I knew the area and the characters who lived there so well.
This is a fantastic saga that gripped me from page 1 and didn't let me go until the end. It's full of the trials and tribulations of family life, especially in the early years of the 20th century, and it's written with warmth and compassion. I loved it!
March 4, 2021
Ruby Caselton moves into a new house in Erith in Kent, but it's not long before her ne'er do well husband, Eddie, and his wastrel ways make life really difficult for Ruby, her son George and Ruby's mother who lives with them. Times are unbearably difficult for Ruby but her friendship with the motherly neighbour, Stella Green, makes life just a little bit more bearable for Ruby and her family.
The years just before the outbreak of WW1 are brought to life with a stark reminder of just how hard it was to make ends meet when jobs were scarce and it was all to easy to get drawn in with the wrong sort of people. Ruby is a feisty and likable heroine, filled with grit and determination she pulls her her family through all manner of tragedies.
Those who have read this author's series of books about The Woolworth Girls will undoubtedly recognise a few of the characters, albeit their younger selves, in A Mother Forever and it was lovely to see them at the start of their lives, particularly, Ruby and her family.
A Mother Forever is a beautifully written historical saga which has all the trademarks of this talented author's fine writing, a strong story line, interesting characters and an authentic sense of time and place.
The years just before the outbreak of WW1 are brought to life with a stark reminder of just how hard it was to make ends meet when jobs were scarce and it was all to easy to get drawn in with the wrong sort of people. Ruby is a feisty and likable heroine, filled with grit and determination she pulls her her family through all manner of tragedies.
Those who have read this author's series of books about The Woolworth Girls will undoubtedly recognise a few of the characters, albeit their younger selves, in A Mother Forever and it was lovely to see them at the start of their lives, particularly, Ruby and her family.
A Mother Forever is a beautifully written historical saga which has all the trademarks of this talented author's fine writing, a strong story line, interesting characters and an authentic sense of time and place.
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February 21, 2021I loved this book from the first page and didn’t want to put it down so well written and great characters and shows plenty of loss and friendship with romance and a heartwarming read and includes the war as well and how you stick by your man.
Ruby is young and pregnant and she has lost a child as well and determined to find out what happened as the baby never drew breath so didn’t have a funeral. Her husband and her move into a home but Eddie is a jack the lad and the family aren’t sure on him at all but she sticks by her mum till she passes. Her husband suddenly leaves and she’s left to bring the child up herself and she’s lucky to have good neighbours and friends and the neighbours son stands by her and supports her but the her husband comes home out of the blue one night but says he can’t stay and she later finds out she’s pregnant again and the neighbours son stands by her but when Eddie sees them from afar he thinks she started a new life. How will things go with the way and her family and will the men come home from the war or not.
Fantastic read well worth more than five stars.
Ruby is young and pregnant and she has lost a child as well and determined to find out what happened as the baby never drew breath so didn’t have a funeral. Her husband and her move into a home but Eddie is a jack the lad and the family aren’t sure on him at all but she sticks by her mum till she passes. Her husband suddenly leaves and she’s left to bring the child up herself and she’s lucky to have good neighbours and friends and the neighbours son stands by her and supports her but the her husband comes home out of the blue one night but says he can’t stay and she later finds out she’s pregnant again and the neighbours son stands by her but when Eddie sees them from afar he thinks she started a new life. How will things go with the way and her family and will the men come home from the war or not.
Fantastic read well worth more than five stars.
January 16, 2022
Ruby being one of my favourite characters in the Woolworth's Girls series, deserved to have her story told. She is such a loving, strong character, you can't help but love her. A Mother Forever is quite a heartbreaking read but it was nice to have read about Ruby's background. It also gives some introductions to a few characters in the Woolworth's Girls books.
October 12, 2021
A very enjoyable story by a brilliant author.
I found that this book tackles issues that are not normally dealt with in books set in this era. It made for a very interesting story, with a very strong lead female character. My only disappointment was that during the last part of the book, I started a new chapter to find that several years had past, then again at the very last chapter over twenty years had passed, I admit I found this quite a abrupt ending.
Otherwise a great read.
I found that this book tackles issues that are not normally dealt with in books set in this era. It made for a very interesting story, with a very strong lead female character. My only disappointment was that during the last part of the book, I started a new chapter to find that several years had past, then again at the very last chapter over twenty years had passed, I admit I found this quite a abrupt ending.
Otherwise a great read.
May 22, 2022
Absolutely brilliant. Read this slightly of order as it’s a flashback to 1905 when Ruby was a young lady . Very good storyline indeed.
January 31, 2021
This is one of those books that stays with you memorable characters amazing story and history could not ask for more
April 10, 2021
Brilliant book
Oh I thoroughly enjoyed reading all about Ruby’s life growing up in Alexander road with the family Elaine Everest is a fantastic author I’ve read all her books especially the Woolworth series
Oh I thoroughly enjoyed reading all about Ruby’s life growing up in Alexander road with the family Elaine Everest is a fantastic author I’ve read all her books especially the Woolworth series
March 18, 2021
Never read any of Elaine Everest's books before, i really enjoyed reading about Ruby Castleton and her family.
March 14, 2021
Absolutely loved this prequel to The Woolworths Girls, so fascinating and intriguing to read about Ruby’s early life. As usual with Elaine’s books it was a real page turner and I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. Elaine has such a wonderful way of describing and shaping her characters and makes you really care about what happens to them.
Can’t wait for the next one, thank you Elaine :) xx
Can’t wait for the next one, thank you Elaine :) xx
April 13, 2021
I read this so quickly as it hooked me from the very first page, having read the Woolworths series I couldn't wait to read about Ruby, Sarah's Nan. This did not disappoint, in fact I actually like this more and I really enjoyed the others.
March 10, 2021
I adored this story by Elaine Everest, no matter what tragic historical events are thrown into the author’s storylines she still manages to instil a lovely warmth and cosiness for the reader’s experience.
If you’ve fell in love with Elaine Everest’s The Woolworth Girls series you will know of Ruby Caselton the stalwart figure of Alexandra Road. A Mother Forever is Ruby’s story set a couple of decades before she became a grandmother, friend and confidante to many in Erith.
It’s 1905 and young Ruby hasn’t had it easy so far in life, she fell hopelessly in love with Eddie Caselton and now has a 5 year old boy, George, with another baby on the way. Hoping this is her last move of many as Ruby moves into Alexandra Road but life soon takes a tragic turn or two and Ruby learns who she can rely on. The last few years married to Eddie has proved challenging at times and they have had to flee the rent man often and her husband has gone back on his promises. The new start on Alexandra Road sends many obstacles for this young couple. Torn between the love of a once good man Ruby is left with a battered heart and struggling to keep life as normal as possible for her young family.
As the years go by the uncertainty of war looms and the menfolk are volunteering in their droves for the frontline leaving family, friends and love ones at a loss and anxious for their safety. There is a role reversal between the men and women as jobs at home need to be fulfilled.
Elaine Everest has given us another wornderful family saga that can easily be read as a standalone but if you have read her previous work you will love this prequel and glimpse into Ruby’s life. I particularly enjoyed how the author incorporated so many historical events into the storying bringing to life an era that we have only read about. There was also a real sense of time and place and the emotional atmosphere felt very poignant. I also appreciated catching sight of characters that Ruby met briefly in her twenties and thirties that later on were to play a prominent role in her life.
Ruby’s is a beautiful, tragic love story with Eddie. At times you couldn’t bear the heartache and anguish she endured but at others it was just so wonderfully romantic that they were like your ‘Hollywood-esque’ tragic couple that had so many wrong junctions in life but the roads always went back to them.
If you’ve fell in love with Elaine Everest’s The Woolworth Girls series you will know of Ruby Caselton the stalwart figure of Alexandra Road. A Mother Forever is Ruby’s story set a couple of decades before she became a grandmother, friend and confidante to many in Erith.
It’s 1905 and young Ruby hasn’t had it easy so far in life, she fell hopelessly in love with Eddie Caselton and now has a 5 year old boy, George, with another baby on the way. Hoping this is her last move of many as Ruby moves into Alexandra Road but life soon takes a tragic turn or two and Ruby learns who she can rely on. The last few years married to Eddie has proved challenging at times and they have had to flee the rent man often and her husband has gone back on his promises. The new start on Alexandra Road sends many obstacles for this young couple. Torn between the love of a once good man Ruby is left with a battered heart and struggling to keep life as normal as possible for her young family.
As the years go by the uncertainty of war looms and the menfolk are volunteering in their droves for the frontline leaving family, friends and love ones at a loss and anxious for their safety. There is a role reversal between the men and women as jobs at home need to be fulfilled.
Elaine Everest has given us another wornderful family saga that can easily be read as a standalone but if you have read her previous work you will love this prequel and glimpse into Ruby’s life. I particularly enjoyed how the author incorporated so many historical events into the storying bringing to life an era that we have only read about. There was also a real sense of time and place and the emotional atmosphere felt very poignant. I also appreciated catching sight of characters that Ruby met briefly in her twenties and thirties that later on were to play a prominent role in her life.
Ruby’s is a beautiful, tragic love story with Eddie. At times you couldn’t bear the heartache and anguish she endured but at others it was just so wonderfully romantic that they were like your ‘Hollywood-esque’ tragic couple that had so many wrong junctions in life but the roads always went back to them.
April 24, 2021
If you are a fan of the Woolworths Girls series by Elaine Everest, a great series, then you must read this book which follows the life of Ruby Caselton, who features in the Woolworths Girls books. Starting in 1905 with Ruby moving to Erith, Kent with her husband, young son and also her mother in tow. She doesn't know who is to be trusted, her husband or her mother. During the move she gives birth to her daughter who was unfortunately stillborn, Ruby is devastated as she has no idea what happened to her daughter, whom she named Sarah. Ruby has one setback after another and if it wasn't for the help and loving frienship from her good friend and neighbour Stella she didn't know how she would cope with life.
As the years progress even WW1 can't stop Ruby caring for her family, but will her friendships and relationships survive the brutality of war.
A book full of caring friendships between the two neighbours and their families as they pull together to get through the darkest of times. Ruby is a strong young woman, and she needs to be, to cope with all that is going on in her life. This is one of those books that you just can't put down, its a wonderful story, full of warmth, sadness and parts that leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside and on finishing the book you feel sad leaving the characters behind. I really truly enjoyed this book and the many fans of Elaine Everest will absolutely love it too. A 5 ☆ read (would have given it more if I could).
As the years progress even WW1 can't stop Ruby caring for her family, but will her friendships and relationships survive the brutality of war.
A book full of caring friendships between the two neighbours and their families as they pull together to get through the darkest of times. Ruby is a strong young woman, and she needs to be, to cope with all that is going on in her life. This is one of those books that you just can't put down, its a wonderful story, full of warmth, sadness and parts that leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside and on finishing the book you feel sad leaving the characters behind. I really truly enjoyed this book and the many fans of Elaine Everest will absolutely love it too. A 5 ☆ read (would have given it more if I could).
July 3, 2021
For anyone who has read the Woolworths girls series, this is a MUST read.
One of the best loved characters in that saga has her very own novel telling her story.
This is the tale of Ruby Castelton, from the first day she moved into Alexandra road, made friends with Stella and the Green family, to her ne'er do well husband Eddie and his subsequent absconding episodes and two world wars.
This charts her life, her grief at a miscarriage, life in wartime, love, friendship and loss.
Ruby was determined to stay at number thirteen no matter what and this is that story of survival against the odds as a mother of two struggling to make ends meet.
I love Ruby, she is a larger than life, heart of gold character so what could possibly be more fitting than she has her own book dedicated to her back story.
A charming tale and as stated, not to be missed for fans of the Woolworths girls.
I just couldn't put this down.
One of the best loved characters in that saga has her very own novel telling her story.
This is the tale of Ruby Castelton, from the first day she moved into Alexandra road, made friends with Stella and the Green family, to her ne'er do well husband Eddie and his subsequent absconding episodes and two world wars.
This charts her life, her grief at a miscarriage, life in wartime, love, friendship and loss.
Ruby was determined to stay at number thirteen no matter what and this is that story of survival against the odds as a mother of two struggling to make ends meet.
I love Ruby, she is a larger than life, heart of gold character so what could possibly be more fitting than she has her own book dedicated to her back story.
A charming tale and as stated, not to be missed for fans of the Woolworths girls.
I just couldn't put this down.
March 16, 2021
A compelling, heart-warming story. I read this as a stand-alone as despite my best intentions I haven’t yet read The Woolworth Girls. It follows the adventures of Ruby Caselton as she arrives in Alexandra Rd in 1905 with her five year old son George, her husband Eddie, her mother and another baby on the way. Ruby loves Eddie but he certainly leads her a bit of a life and her loyalty and love are really put to the test. Her warm, loyal character soon endears her to others and her friendship with the Green family helps her through, although this too is tested. A story of warmth, love, loyalty amidst tragedy and hardship, Ruby’s stories spreads over the first World War and beyond. A wonderful family saga that I couldn’t put down.
April 4, 2021
Another must read
During our lockdown since end of December I have read 8 books, so far. I was a little anxious about having to have the covid jab & how I would be after, so I must thank Elaine for keeping me company while I had the jade itself (02/0421) & for the 2 days after while I was recovering from some side effects
It was great getting to know the younger Ruby & her friends before the Woolworths Girls. Bless her she had more patience with Eddie than I would have been. It was from this time in her life that gave her the strength & showed the goodness she shared with everyone
Please keep these books coming, I’m missing Sarah, Freda & the rest of the extended family
During our lockdown since end of December I have read 8 books, so far. I was a little anxious about having to have the covid jab & how I would be after, so I must thank Elaine for keeping me company while I had the jade itself (02/0421) & for the 2 days after while I was recovering from some side effects
It was great getting to know the younger Ruby & her friends before the Woolworths Girls. Bless her she had more patience with Eddie than I would have been. It was from this time in her life that gave her the strength & showed the goodness she shared with everyone
Please keep these books coming, I’m missing Sarah, Freda & the rest of the extended family
February 20, 2022
5* as always Elaine Everest delivers 😍
A wonderful story of Ruby early days and life
I couldn’t get enough of this just didn’t want it
To end in fact was gutted when I’d finished
Just fantastic
Also must give a shout out to
Annie Aldington she just brings the story / characters
Alive you actually feel as though you know them personally, so as always another 5*
Don’t miss this book you’ll love it 😍
A wonderful story of Ruby early days and life
I couldn’t get enough of this just didn’t want it
To end in fact was gutted when I’d finished
Just fantastic
Also must give a shout out to
Annie Aldington she just brings the story / characters
Alive you actually feel as though you know them personally, so as always another 5*
Don’t miss this book you’ll love it 😍
March 26, 2025
Another great read 📚 from Elaine Everest. This book takes us back to the early life's of Ruby and her son George and daughter Pat. From the moment she arrives in Eriith as a very young mum about to give birth to a daughter who unfortunately dies. She is a very strong character even then. The year is 1905.
May 29, 2021
That was truly amazing, learning the truth of Ruby's life before woolworths. Feel sad as I have grown to love the characters and it maybe the end of that saga 😕.
Thank you Elaine for my escapism and can't wait for your new novel 😊
Thank you Elaine for my escapism and can't wait for your new novel 😊
April 5, 2022
before Woolworths
Really enjoyed this book, getting to know Ruby as a younger woman. It brings in several characters that we’ve met in the Woolworths books and marks several historic events.
Really enjoyed this book, getting to know Ruby as a younger woman. It brings in several characters that we’ve met in the Woolworths books and marks several historic events.
May 30, 2022
Brilliant read
I love the Woolworths books but this book stepped back in time and looked at the life of Ruby Castleton as a new wife and mother. It had me gripped from the first page and I absolutely loved it.
I love the Woolworths books but this book stepped back in time and looked at the life of Ruby Castleton as a new wife and mother. It had me gripped from the first page and I absolutely loved it.
December 8, 2024
3 ⭐️
This book was a letdown for me after reading the first book in the series. This book focuses on Ruby a distinct character in the first book over a number of years which has the effect of making the book feel disjointed.
This book was a letdown for me after reading the first book in the series. This book focuses on Ruby a distinct character in the first book over a number of years which has the effect of making the book feel disjointed.
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