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The Post Girls #1
The Post Office Girls
With the Great War raging, can they keep Britain going?
1915. On Beth Healey's eighteenth birthday, she hopes that she will be able to forget the ghastly war and celebrate. But that evening, her twin brother Ned announces that he has signed up to fight.
No longer able to stand working in her parents' village shop while others are doing their bit, Beth applies to join the Army Post Office's new Home Depot on the Regent's Park, and is astounded to be accepted. She will be responsible for making sure that letters and parcels get through to the troops on the front line.
Beth is thrilled to be a crucial part of the war effort and soon makes friends with fellow post girls Milly and Nora, and meets the handsome James. But just as she begins to feel that her life has finally begun, everything starts falling apart, with devastating consequences for Beth and perhaps even the outcome of the war itself. Can Beth and her new friends keep it all together and find happiness at last?
The Post Office Girls is perfect for fans of Johanna Bell, Daisy Styles and Nancy Revell.
READERS LOVE THE POST OFFICE GIRLS!
'A superb debut novel' - 5 STARS
'Entertaining, enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable' - 5 STARS
'I absolutely loved this book and I am already eagerly awaiting book two in the series' - 5 STARS
'The book gave a wonderful in sight into postal-service life during the war. Well done, Poppy' - 5 STARS
'An excellent WW1 book' - 5 STARS
1915. On Beth Healey's eighteenth birthday, she hopes that she will be able to forget the ghastly war and celebrate. But that evening, her twin brother Ned announces that he has signed up to fight.
No longer able to stand working in her parents' village shop while others are doing their bit, Beth applies to join the Army Post Office's new Home Depot on the Regent's Park, and is astounded to be accepted. She will be responsible for making sure that letters and parcels get through to the troops on the front line.
Beth is thrilled to be a crucial part of the war effort and soon makes friends with fellow post girls Milly and Nora, and meets the handsome James. But just as she begins to feel that her life has finally begun, everything starts falling apart, with devastating consequences for Beth and perhaps even the outcome of the war itself. Can Beth and her new friends keep it all together and find happiness at last?
The Post Office Girls is perfect for fans of Johanna Bell, Daisy Styles and Nancy Revell.
READERS LOVE THE POST OFFICE GIRLS!
'A superb debut novel' - 5 STARS
'Entertaining, enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable' - 5 STARS
'I absolutely loved this book and I am already eagerly awaiting book two in the series' - 5 STARS
'The book gave a wonderful in sight into postal-service life during the war. Well done, Poppy' - 5 STARS
'An excellent WW1 book' - 5 STARS
352 pages, Paperback
Published May 24, 2022
44 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 24, 2021
Beth Healey works in her parent’s village shop in Woodhampstead, getting orders ready and serving customers. Beth and her twin brother Ned have just turned eighteen, like all young men Ned signs up to fight for his king and country. Beth also wants to contribute to the war, others are doing their bit and her parents have very old fashioned ideas about what young ladies can do.
Beth secretly applies to join the Army Post Office’s new Home Depot on the Regent’s Park, and she can’t believe it when she’s offered a job. The postal service was of great significance during WW I and it handled over twelve million letters a week. Beth works in the damaged parcel department, she repacks and readdresses damaged parcels being sent to soldiers, it’s an important job and a very busy one.
Despite traveling and long work days, Beth enjoys her new job, she makes friends with two girls employed in the same department, Milly Woods and Nora Benhams. By working and staying at her new friends houses overnight; Beth discovers life is very different in London, Nora comes from a well to do family and Milly is involved with the suffragette movement. At the Home Depot she also meets the attractive James Blackford, he’s of age and yet he’s not fighting in the war?
The Post Office Girls takes you back to 1915 and when women’s roles changed during WW I and it gives you an insight into life in England at the time. I enjoyed reading about the friendship formed between the three young women, they faced many challenges together and the important work they did. The mail service was extremely vital during WW I, receiving a letter boosted morale in the trenches and at home.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
Beth secretly applies to join the Army Post Office’s new Home Depot on the Regent’s Park, and she can’t believe it when she’s offered a job. The postal service was of great significance during WW I and it handled over twelve million letters a week. Beth works in the damaged parcel department, she repacks and readdresses damaged parcels being sent to soldiers, it’s an important job and a very busy one.
Despite traveling and long work days, Beth enjoys her new job, she makes friends with two girls employed in the same department, Milly Woods and Nora Benhams. By working and staying at her new friends houses overnight; Beth discovers life is very different in London, Nora comes from a well to do family and Milly is involved with the suffragette movement. At the Home Depot she also meets the attractive James Blackford, he’s of age and yet he’s not fighting in the war?
The Post Office Girls takes you back to 1915 and when women’s roles changed during WW I and it gives you an insight into life in England at the time. I enjoyed reading about the friendship formed between the three young women, they faced many challenges together and the important work they did. The mail service was extremely vital during WW I, receiving a letter boosted morale in the trenches and at home.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and four stars from me. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
May 2, 2021
1915:On Beth Healey's eighteenth birthday, she hopes she will be able to forget the war and celebrate. But that evening, her twin brother Ned announces that he has signed up to fight. No longer able to stand working in her parents village shop while others are doing their bit, Beth applies to join the Army Post Office's new Home Depot on the Regent's Park. Beth is thrilled to be a crucial part of the war effort, making sure letters and parcels get through to the front line. It's not long before she makes firm friends with Milly and Nora.
Beth, Milly and Nora all come from different backgrounds but they quickly form aa strong bond. I didn't know much about the post office girls army jobs during WWI, but I do now. I liked the three girls and Beth's love interest, James. The girls shared experiences brought them really close. I'm looking forward to reading A Post Office Christmas: Book 2 in this new series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HodderStoughton and the author #PoppyCooper for my ARC of #ThePostOfficeGirls in exchange for an honest review.
Beth, Milly and Nora all come from different backgrounds but they quickly form aa strong bond. I didn't know much about the post office girls army jobs during WWI, but I do now. I liked the three girls and Beth's love interest, James. The girls shared experiences brought them really close. I'm looking forward to reading A Post Office Christmas: Book 2 in this new series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HodderStoughton and the author #PoppyCooper for my ARC of #ThePostOfficeGirls in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2021
The Post Office Girls is superb debut novel by Poppy Cooper.
The story begins with Beth Healey, a country girl from Woodhampstead Hertfordshire who wants to do her bit for the war instead of working in her family run shop. When she hears of an opportunity to work for the Royal Engineers Postal service, she secretly goes for the interview behind her parents back and she gets the job. But her parents are heartbroken and worried as the job is in London twenty miles away.
One her first day of the job she meets London born Milly from Bow in the East end and Nora who is a debutante and James. They all become firm friends working in the Broken Parcel department. All from different backgrounds they all experience new things but also heartache and loss. The story is also about the Suffragette movement where they meet Mrs Parkhurst.
This is a heart-warming coming of age and self-discovery story. Dealing with relationships heartache, and loss that I really enjoyed. I enjoyed learning about the Post Office and what they did to the parcels and letters that came in for the soldiers at the front. I was not aware this went on. I also loved the photos at the send of this books to show you what taken place. 5 star
The story begins with Beth Healey, a country girl from Woodhampstead Hertfordshire who wants to do her bit for the war instead of working in her family run shop. When she hears of an opportunity to work for the Royal Engineers Postal service, she secretly goes for the interview behind her parents back and she gets the job. But her parents are heartbroken and worried as the job is in London twenty miles away.
One her first day of the job she meets London born Milly from Bow in the East end and Nora who is a debutante and James. They all become firm friends working in the Broken Parcel department. All from different backgrounds they all experience new things but also heartache and loss. The story is also about the Suffragette movement where they meet Mrs Parkhurst.
This is a heart-warming coming of age and self-discovery story. Dealing with relationships heartache, and loss that I really enjoyed. I enjoyed learning about the Post Office and what they did to the parcels and letters that came in for the soldiers at the front. I was not aware this went on. I also loved the photos at the send of this books to show you what taken place. 5 star
December 26, 2022
I enjoy saga and usually the settings are based in factories so this was a nice change. It was such a busy time and with men off fighting, the women were left to take on the men's jobs.
This was a well written story and I took an instant liking to the characters and can't wait to catch up with them again - this is a wonderful start to a new series.
This was a well written story and I took an instant liking to the characters and can't wait to catch up with them again - this is a wonderful start to a new series.
February 3, 2021
The Post Office Girls by Poppy Cooper is an excellent WWI era historical fiction/saga novel that is the start, of what I expect, to be an excellent new series. This book has it all: history, wonderful cast of characters, an engaging story, a bit of mystery and intrigue, strong friendships, and a dash of romance.
I really enjoyed this story of a group of young women from different backgrounds and upbringings becoming friends, strengthening their positions and outlooks in life with forged relationships, and helping out in their own respective ways for the war effort during WWI in England. I really liked Beth, Milly, and Nora. Their own unique personalities and strengths really complimented one another throughout the story. I also liked to see each character grow and change as they are faced with adversities and obstacles. Despite the trials, the war, the loss, the hurt, and events that are beyond their control, we are able to see rays of hope, love, strength, friendship, and a chance to overcome challenges take hold. I really enjoyed their stories and can't wait to see how this series continues.
I also really loved the unique aspect of featuring the Post Office and the vital role the postal workers played during this time. I do not think I have read anything as of yet that highlighted this very important position during WWI specifically. I also really enjoyed the true events and factual details that were placed within the story. It all really made the novel very enjoyable and memorable.
I recommend this book for anyone that loves a great WWI era historical fiction, or historical fiction in general.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Hodder &Stoughton for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post within my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
I really enjoyed this story of a group of young women from different backgrounds and upbringings becoming friends, strengthening their positions and outlooks in life with forged relationships, and helping out in their own respective ways for the war effort during WWI in England. I really liked Beth, Milly, and Nora. Their own unique personalities and strengths really complimented one another throughout the story. I also liked to see each character grow and change as they are faced with adversities and obstacles. Despite the trials, the war, the loss, the hurt, and events that are beyond their control, we are able to see rays of hope, love, strength, friendship, and a chance to overcome challenges take hold. I really enjoyed their stories and can't wait to see how this series continues.
I also really loved the unique aspect of featuring the Post Office and the vital role the postal workers played during this time. I do not think I have read anything as of yet that highlighted this very important position during WWI specifically. I also really enjoyed the true events and factual details that were placed within the story. It all really made the novel very enjoyable and memorable.
I recommend this book for anyone that loves a great WWI era historical fiction, or historical fiction in general.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Hodder &Stoughton for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post within my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
April 8, 2021
I was really looking forward to reading this book, it received a lot of publicity on Twitter and I was intrigued. I’m delighted to say that the book totally lived up to its virtual hype and I was engrossed.
Beth is an ideal lead character, she is loving and loyal with a strong drive to do the right thing. Her relationship with her brother and friendship with local postman, Sam, are key elements to her decision to seek out the role in London.
Poppy excelled with her descriptions of London during the Great War; I could almost hear the Zeppelins, floating above the chimney pots. Imagining the wooden structure of the Home Depot and the mess from all the sack dust was an easy leap with descriptions that made me feel the itchiness.
A real eye opener was learning which items were considered contraband, for a parcel to the front, and which were acceptable; a bottle of whiskey was a no-go, but Cocaine and Heroin were fine. Apparently, if you bought these items in Harrod’s, they came with included syringes. How times change!
The more interesting part was learning more about the Votes for Women movements. There were several parties with widely differing views on the war effort.
Beth’s friends also fell on opposing sides of the support for the war effort, and it was interesting to see how their views differed. Mostly though, it was a pleasure to follow Beth’s growing friendship with James, a handsome young man who was opposed to war but happy to support the boys at the front.
I would urge you to read this book and I hope you enjoy it, as much as I did.
Beth is an ideal lead character, she is loving and loyal with a strong drive to do the right thing. Her relationship with her brother and friendship with local postman, Sam, are key elements to her decision to seek out the role in London.
Poppy excelled with her descriptions of London during the Great War; I could almost hear the Zeppelins, floating above the chimney pots. Imagining the wooden structure of the Home Depot and the mess from all the sack dust was an easy leap with descriptions that made me feel the itchiness.
A real eye opener was learning which items were considered contraband, for a parcel to the front, and which were acceptable; a bottle of whiskey was a no-go, but Cocaine and Heroin were fine. Apparently, if you bought these items in Harrod’s, they came with included syringes. How times change!
The more interesting part was learning more about the Votes for Women movements. There were several parties with widely differing views on the war effort.
Beth’s friends also fell on opposing sides of the support for the war effort, and it was interesting to see how their views differed. Mostly though, it was a pleasure to follow Beth’s growing friendship with James, a handsome young man who was opposed to war but happy to support the boys at the front.
I would urge you to read this book and I hope you enjoy it, as much as I did.
February 26, 2021
This is an excellent WW1 book about Beth who leaves suburban life in Hertfordshire to work at the broken parcel department at the Royal Engineers postal service in London.
There she meets Nora and Mills, as well as James. Along the way she has to grow up a little as she encounters suffragettes, tough decisions and heartbreak.
I didn't know anything about the postal service in WW1, so it was fascinating to learn about censorship, packages being rewrapped and the honour system. The book is well researched with a linkable heroine.
I love books about women and the roles they played in wartime and thos doesn't disappoint. Really hope there is more soon.
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for gifting me a copy in return for an honest review.
There she meets Nora and Mills, as well as James. Along the way she has to grow up a little as she encounters suffragettes, tough decisions and heartbreak.
I didn't know anything about the postal service in WW1, so it was fascinating to learn about censorship, packages being rewrapped and the honour system. The book is well researched with a linkable heroine.
I love books about women and the roles they played in wartime and thos doesn't disappoint. Really hope there is more soon.
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for gifting me a copy in return for an honest review.
November 23, 2022
I've recently really got into historical fiction although mainly WW2, this is the first WW1 book I've read and I really enjoyed it. It's not often you get to read about the "behind the scenes" war stories for want of a better expression. You usually read about the front line fighting, the concentration camps and even about the injured soldiers and the nurses who look after them. Whilst those stories are important, I found it interesting to read about the postal service and how that was managed. I liked the pictures the author included at the end in her Acknowledgements.
My only complaint is that I felt like the end was a little abrupt. I felt there was more detail that could have been included however I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
My only complaint is that I felt like the end was a little abrupt. I felt there was more detail that could have been included however I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 13, 2022
Enjoyed this book .Looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
March 13, 2021
The Post Office Girls is a delightful read. It’s about Beth, a good, sensible girl who wants to do her bit for the war effort. She takes a job in the Royal Engineers Postal Service in London, a far cry, even if only twenty miles, from her comfortable village home. But this move is very much against her parents’ wishes which takes a little of the thrill away, but does nothing to dampen Beth’s determination to make a success of her exciting and important new job. It doesn’t take long before she meets new friends and a variety of people with a range of beliefs. And so it’s not long before Beth realises how safe and comfortable living in rural Hertfordshire has been.
This is essentially a coming of age story. Beth tries to reinvent herself and be the person she wants to be, but we all know that’s rarely easy. She meets some strong, confident characters who have solid but varying beliefs with regards to the war. They all make an impression on Beth, which only confuses her further and has her questioning her true self and what she thinks about anything.
What I liked about this book was the easy read. It’s perfect for sitting in front of the fire with a hot drink and maybe a biscuit or two. There’s nothing jarring or overly complex, it’s a joyous, if gentle, given the time, adventure of a young woman finding her way into an adult, urban world. Add in a little romantic love triangle dilemma, a dose of dark truth, a few testy friendship moments, a smidgeon of family drama, an opportunity for heroism and you’ve got a good solid, well-paced story. We all need a book like this one on our shelves and I will definitely be looking out for the next in the saga.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the advanced review copy.
This is essentially a coming of age story. Beth tries to reinvent herself and be the person she wants to be, but we all know that’s rarely easy. She meets some strong, confident characters who have solid but varying beliefs with regards to the war. They all make an impression on Beth, which only confuses her further and has her questioning her true self and what she thinks about anything.
What I liked about this book was the easy read. It’s perfect for sitting in front of the fire with a hot drink and maybe a biscuit or two. There’s nothing jarring or overly complex, it’s a joyous, if gentle, given the time, adventure of a young woman finding her way into an adult, urban world. Add in a little romantic love triangle dilemma, a dose of dark truth, a few testy friendship moments, a smidgeon of family drama, an opportunity for heroism and you’ve got a good solid, well-paced story. We all need a book like this one on our shelves and I will definitely be looking out for the next in the saga.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the advanced review copy.
May 26, 2021
This is a lovely debut from an author I will be keen to add to my must read list. I love books set around the war years and this one added another angle to the working lives of those on the home front. I hadn't heard about the post depot dealing with the post for the soldiers and the parcels that they received from home.
Beth works in the family shop, but yearns for a bit of excitement and is encouraged to go for an interview at the new depot. Although intimidated, she does accept the job. She makes friends with 2 girls around her age on the first day and although they are totally different they form a firm friendship.
You are transported back in time, experiencing travel difficulties, difference in class and learning more about the suffragette movement.
A great book about friendships, family life, wartime worries and life in new jobs helping the war effort.
I will definitely be waiting for the second book in the series to be released.
Beth works in the family shop, but yearns for a bit of excitement and is encouraged to go for an interview at the new depot. Although intimidated, she does accept the job. She makes friends with 2 girls around her age on the first day and although they are totally different they form a firm friendship.
You are transported back in time, experiencing travel difficulties, difference in class and learning more about the suffragette movement.
A great book about friendships, family life, wartime worries and life in new jobs helping the war effort.
I will definitely be waiting for the second book in the series to be released.
October 3, 2021
I liked this book to start with, then kept picking it up and putting it down between reading. Only got to chapter 6 and had to abandon. I just couldn't get on with it. Felt the story was to slow in places and could have moved AT a faster pace. Shame was was looking forward to this book as well. It is poppy's first book. I never normally give up on world war books as its my favourite subject to read about. But just couldn't get into it.
June 24, 2021
This was like a breath of fresh air. Such a delightful read. Not my usual genre, but it's so well done that I was swept along with the story and really looked forward to reading it every evening. Heartwarming and comforting, with wonderful, well-rounded characters I could really relate to. I loved Beth, Milly and Nora, and am very much looking forward to the sequel.
May 18, 2021
The history that gave the inspiration behind this fictional story, which is the first in a brand new series, is truly fascinating. It’s worth reading the note by the author at the beginning of the book for this.
It’s Beth’s 18th birthday and its 1915 and has the formidable sounding Mrs McBride at the shop, where both of them work, on her case over butter. The scene with the tones of voices opens up magnificently.
It has the nostalgic air that you’d perhaps expect, but just manages not to be saccharine sweet. It does have a Sunday night, gentle-paced period drama feel about it, but doesn’t shy away from certain hard-hitting, home-truths about war here and there. It can be bit slow in places, but stay with it as a whole world opens up and it does become quite hard to put down.
The war is captured well, from those staying at home, in the rationing at the shop, a clever hint of people trying to, not quite bulk buy, but certainly buy a bit more than they need and not thinking of others and leaving enough of even flour to go around and the emotion of Beth from this, it’s like a subtle thought to people today, which I approve of; and Florence who had stepped out with Ralph, a footman from Maitland Hall who went out to fight and the worry about hearing from him and the excitement of letters when she does. It has a feel of authenticity and the scenes are picture perfect in Woodhampstead.
Beth later, travels to London as recruitment in Regent’s Park, where a mailing depot is set- up for army post, and encounters Sergeant Major Cunningham. The reactions of an 18 year old is captured well to the Major, who had a very different life, as a postal worker before and all is new to Beth, who was a shopworker, now to work in the Home Depot, sorting through the mail coming in from soldiers.
You can feel her coil up a little and then ping into anger as she attempts to stand-up for herself. The empathy of soldiers at war and the letters that show signs of where they are and perhaps been whilst writing, further hits home to her. The details from an envelope and codes add interest and the interesting markings as each new chapter starts is too as are the letters between her brother Ned and her. She does however come across a gentler mannered man – Mr Blackford. Her achievement of getting an interview for the post hasn’t got the reaction she would have liked from her parents, different from today’s times, but very true of the times of the setting.
There are a few twists that grab you further in, here and there and no more so than near the end, within the characters lives you will want to continue to get to know.
Readers of the book would do well to read the acknowledgements. It gives a fascinating insight into the research that was done for the book and some real-life photos of the women working in the Home-Depot.
It’s Beth’s 18th birthday and its 1915 and has the formidable sounding Mrs McBride at the shop, where both of them work, on her case over butter. The scene with the tones of voices opens up magnificently.
It has the nostalgic air that you’d perhaps expect, but just manages not to be saccharine sweet. It does have a Sunday night, gentle-paced period drama feel about it, but doesn’t shy away from certain hard-hitting, home-truths about war here and there. It can be bit slow in places, but stay with it as a whole world opens up and it does become quite hard to put down.
The war is captured well, from those staying at home, in the rationing at the shop, a clever hint of people trying to, not quite bulk buy, but certainly buy a bit more than they need and not thinking of others and leaving enough of even flour to go around and the emotion of Beth from this, it’s like a subtle thought to people today, which I approve of; and Florence who had stepped out with Ralph, a footman from Maitland Hall who went out to fight and the worry about hearing from him and the excitement of letters when she does. It has a feel of authenticity and the scenes are picture perfect in Woodhampstead.
Beth later, travels to London as recruitment in Regent’s Park, where a mailing depot is set- up for army post, and encounters Sergeant Major Cunningham. The reactions of an 18 year old is captured well to the Major, who had a very different life, as a postal worker before and all is new to Beth, who was a shopworker, now to work in the Home Depot, sorting through the mail coming in from soldiers.
You can feel her coil up a little and then ping into anger as she attempts to stand-up for herself. The empathy of soldiers at war and the letters that show signs of where they are and perhaps been whilst writing, further hits home to her. The details from an envelope and codes add interest and the interesting markings as each new chapter starts is too as are the letters between her brother Ned and her. She does however come across a gentler mannered man – Mr Blackford. Her achievement of getting an interview for the post hasn’t got the reaction she would have liked from her parents, different from today’s times, but very true of the times of the setting.
There are a few twists that grab you further in, here and there and no more so than near the end, within the characters lives you will want to continue to get to know.
Readers of the book would do well to read the acknowledgements. It gives a fascinating insight into the research that was done for the book and some real-life photos of the women working in the Home-Depot.
May 10, 2021
The Post Office girls is a lovely heart-warming story set in the First World War. Beth, our main protagonist is accepted for a post office job in London working for the Home Depot in their Broken Parcel Department, where she is employed to re-parcel all the damaged packages and keep her eye out for contraband goods. Completely out of character and against the wishes of her mother and father she accepts the job and takes the huge leap from her countryside village home to the big city of London determined to do her bit for the war effort.
On the first day of her new job she meets two other new employees, Nora and Milly. Nora is from a rich family and lives in an ‘icing cake house’ in Regent’s Park and Milly lives in the East End and is involved with the Suffragette movement. This unlikely trio are from completely different backgrounds but soon become firm and supportive friends. The characters in this book are portrayed so well and it was marvellous getting an insight into their lives, their friendship struggles and their differing opinions on the war. Romantically Beth finds herself torn between Sam the young man who urged her to join the postal service and with whom she writes regular letters and James who she meets at the Home Depot and gradually starts to fall in love with. Beth struggles with her feelings in this love triangle dilemma, but it was lovely to see it all unfold and slot into place.
The historical background is beautifully described and really well researched. It is enlightening learning about how vital and incredibly important the postal system was during this era, ensuring soldiers kept in touch with their families and loved ones and to continue to experience a little taste of home with the thoughtfully put together packages sent to them. It was interesting learning about the ‘Stamp Code’, who knew that the different position or angle a stamp was put on an envelope sent a different messaged to a loved one. I don’t think I’ve ever read another novel of this era that focused on the postal system and how important it was and it was a real eye-opener.
The Post Office girls is a delightful and fascinating book and a really interesting insight into the postal service during this period of time and in particular the significance of the roles the women played. An uncomplicated read but well written and researched and there is a lot going on to engage the reader. The old post office photographs at the back of the book are a lovely bonus. A wonderful debut novel and an exciting start to a new WW1 historical saga series.
Thank you so much to the publishers for the gifted advance copy and for inviting me on this blog tour.
TWISTED IN PAGES BLOG
On the first day of her new job she meets two other new employees, Nora and Milly. Nora is from a rich family and lives in an ‘icing cake house’ in Regent’s Park and Milly lives in the East End and is involved with the Suffragette movement. This unlikely trio are from completely different backgrounds but soon become firm and supportive friends. The characters in this book are portrayed so well and it was marvellous getting an insight into their lives, their friendship struggles and their differing opinions on the war. Romantically Beth finds herself torn between Sam the young man who urged her to join the postal service and with whom she writes regular letters and James who she meets at the Home Depot and gradually starts to fall in love with. Beth struggles with her feelings in this love triangle dilemma, but it was lovely to see it all unfold and slot into place.
The historical background is beautifully described and really well researched. It is enlightening learning about how vital and incredibly important the postal system was during this era, ensuring soldiers kept in touch with their families and loved ones and to continue to experience a little taste of home with the thoughtfully put together packages sent to them. It was interesting learning about the ‘Stamp Code’, who knew that the different position or angle a stamp was put on an envelope sent a different messaged to a loved one. I don’t think I’ve ever read another novel of this era that focused on the postal system and how important it was and it was a real eye-opener.
The Post Office girls is a delightful and fascinating book and a really interesting insight into the postal service during this period of time and in particular the significance of the roles the women played. An uncomplicated read but well written and researched and there is a lot going on to engage the reader. The old post office photographs at the back of the book are a lovely bonus. A wonderful debut novel and an exciting start to a new WW1 historical saga series.
Thank you so much to the publishers for the gifted advance copy and for inviting me on this blog tour.
TWISTED IN PAGES BLOG
April 29, 2021
The Post Office Girls by Poppy Cooper is an excellent WWI era historical fiction/saga novel that is the start, of what I expect, to be an excellent new series. This book has it all: history, wonderful cast of characters, an engaging story, a bit of mystery and intrigue, strong friendships, and a dash of romance.
I really enjoyed this story of a group of young women from different backgrounds and upbringings becoming friends, strengthening their positions and outlooks in life with forged relationships, and helping out in their own respective ways for the war effort during WWI in England. I really liked Beth, Milly, and Nora. Their own unique personalities and strengths really complimented one another throughout the story. I also liked to see each character grow and change as they are faced with adversities and obstacles. Despite the trials, the war, the loss, the hurt, and events that are beyond their control, we are able to see rays of hope, love, strength, friendship, and a chance to overcome challenges take hold. I really enjoyed their stories and can't wait to see how this series continues.
I also really loved the unique aspect of featuring the Post Office and the vital role the postal workers played during this time. I do not think I have read anything as of yet that highlighted this very important position during WWI specifically. I also really enjoyed the true events and factual details that were placed within the story. It all really made the novel very enjoyable and memorable.
I recommend this book for anyone that loves a great WWI era historical fiction, or historical fiction in general.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Hodder &Stoughton for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post within my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
I really enjoyed this story of a group of young women from different backgrounds and upbringings becoming friends, strengthening their positions and outlooks in life with forged relationships, and helping out in their own respective ways for the war effort during WWI in England. I really liked Beth, Milly, and Nora. Their own unique personalities and strengths really complimented one another throughout the story. I also liked to see each character grow and change as they are faced with adversities and obstacles. Despite the trials, the war, the loss, the hurt, and events that are beyond their control, we are able to see rays of hope, love, strength, friendship, and a chance to overcome challenges take hold. I really enjoyed their stories and can't wait to see how this series continues.
I also really loved the unique aspect of featuring the Post Office and the vital role the postal workers played during this time. I do not think I have read anything as of yet that highlighted this very important position during WWI specifically. I also really enjoyed the true events and factual details that were placed within the story. It all really made the novel very enjoyable and memorable.
I recommend this book for anyone that loves a great WWI era historical fiction, or historical fiction in general.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Hodder &Stoughton for this arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post within my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
May 7, 2021
This is a fantastic read set in WW1 and the good news is, it’s the first in a series.
It tells the story of Beth who works in her parents village store but yearns to do ‘her bit’ for the war. Going against her parents wishes she signs up for a job working in London at the Post Office to help sort the mail for the soldiers on the front line.
The girls she meets, Nora and Milly become firm friends who share the ups and downs of day to day life during the war.
The Post Office Girls is an easy read full of laughter and sorrow in equal measure which draws you in from the first page. I couldn’t put this book down and can’t wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy for an honest review.
It tells the story of Beth who works in her parents village store but yearns to do ‘her bit’ for the war. Going against her parents wishes she signs up for a job working in London at the Post Office to help sort the mail for the soldiers on the front line.
The girls she meets, Nora and Milly become firm friends who share the ups and downs of day to day life during the war.
The Post Office Girls is an easy read full of laughter and sorrow in equal measure which draws you in from the first page. I couldn’t put this book down and can’t wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy for an honest review.
September 15, 2021
My goodness what a book I really was engrossed in this book and could not put it down. It is a different angle from most books about woman in the War and of course before they had the vote as well. Well done and really cleverly written.
Beth, Nora & Milly end up together working in the depot of the Post Office repackaging parcels for the soldiers that are serving in the war. They forge a friendship which I would imagine will go on and get stronger.
It was very interesting to see what they did in the Post Office. I certainly look forward to reading the next book well done to the author..
Beth, Nora & Milly end up together working in the depot of the Post Office repackaging parcels for the soldiers that are serving in the war. They forge a friendship which I would imagine will go on and get stronger.
It was very interesting to see what they did in the Post Office. I certainly look forward to reading the next book well done to the author..
July 18, 2021
Well, this was an absolute joy to read! A gorgeous story of young Beth whose life changes immeasurably when she goes against her parents' wishes and signs up for a wartime job at The Post Office. Her friendship with Milly and Nora develops quickly with all the usual angst and differences that pop up with personalities and circumstances. All are affected by the young men going off to war. All are determined to do their bit to support the cause. There's love and loss, family and friendships, romance and growing independence. All in all, a wonderful story. Brava! Poppy Cooper.
October 26, 2023
this was a lovely read, I had been given a series of what I call lightweight reads this being one of them, and to perhaps my surprise I enjoyed the setting and story of the three main characters and their lives and look forward to reading the sequels. As always, its good to read a book that has a different setting to others and this one set around the postal services in WW1 was really well written. I had no idea of the remit and depth of the postal service at that time so its good to learn about that too.
December 24, 2021
I loved this book, it was a great insight into what happened with the mail during World War One. I worked for the post office myself and was very interested to learn how things were all those years ago. The friendship between Liza/Beth, Nora and Milly was nice even though they all came from completely different backgrounds. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from the three friends.
May 3, 2021
I love Historical Fiction and was intrigued when I heard about this book, as i work for the Post Office where I’m from and although the Job has changed lots since then, the basic nature hasn’t. It’s a fabulous story of friendship and struggles in one of the darkest parts of world history. it’s so engaging that I read it in almost one go and am now waiting for the second book .
May 7, 2021
A good historical fiction that kept me hooked.
There's a lot going on in this book and loved the character development and the character's friendship.
The historical background is vivid and well researched.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
There's a lot going on in this book and loved the character development and the character's friendship.
The historical background is vivid and well researched.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
February 7, 2022
Beth is an ordinary working girl at her parents' grocery shop in Woodhampstead. WW1 is underway and Beth finds herself increasingly in a topsy turvy world, where her beliefs are challenged, horizons are changing and she becomes more restless, eager to do her bit.
A lovely tale of friendship and self discovery, well researched to offer the reader both escapism and education.
A lovely tale of friendship and self discovery, well researched to offer the reader both escapism and education.
December 10, 2022
I really enjoyed this read. Beth was such a great character.
I have never thought about the post office during the war . The women that took over the work whilst the men were at war had to deal with sensitive news and also the treatment they would of got from the men still working there wasn’t pleasant at times
A fresh take on being a woman during world war 2 .
I have never thought about the post office during the war . The women that took over the work whilst the men were at war had to deal with sensitive news and also the treatment they would of got from the men still working there wasn’t pleasant at times
A fresh take on being a woman during world war 2 .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2024
A very entertaining read about the women who ensured that letters and packages made it to the front line soldiers during WW1. Also a story of friendship and coming of age for three young women at what must have been a very strange and sad time in history. So much interesting history about this topic and the characters were well written. I really enjoyed the book.
August 18, 2021
An excellent read.
Poppy Coolers debut book was an excellent read. I know this is a cliche, but I couldn't put this book down. I really enjoyed finding out about the Army postal service and the photographs at the end of the book really brought the book to life. Well done Poppy.
Poppy Coolers debut book was an excellent read. I know this is a cliche, but I couldn't put this book down. I really enjoyed finding out about the Army postal service and the photographs at the end of the book really brought the book to life. Well done Poppy.
September 29, 2021
Excellent read
Really enjoyed this book a bout the post office girls and what they did during the war. Anyone who likes books about people 's work place and life's will enjoy this book.
Really enjoyed this book a bout the post office girls and what they did during the war. Anyone who likes books about people 's work place and life's will enjoy this book.
December 3, 2021
A brilliant story.
This is a delightful story about three young women Beth, Milly and Nora and their work for the war effort.Well written and looking forward to the next book in this series.
This is a delightful story about three young women Beth, Milly and Nora and their work for the war effort.Well written and looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 4, 2023
Really enjoyed this book. I’ve worked for the Post Office for 30 years. Was interesting to read how what can be sent in the post has changed. Can’t wait to read the next one. Not sure if I can wait until Christmas to read it.
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