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The Tobacco Girls #3
Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls
As war rages, everyone has to do their bit...
Bristol 1941
As the clouds of war grow bleaker both at home and abroad, the Tobacco Girls are determined to do their bit for King and Country. To that end Maisie Miles and Bridget Milligan become voluntary ambulance drivers.
As well as coping with the frequent air raids, Maisie is kept on her toes with three new junior employees one of whom is particularly testing.
Bridget’s heart becomes torn between family loyalty and American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O’Neill III, the man she loves.
Meanwhile Phyllis Harvey has joined the WAAF, opting to serve overseas whilst trying to escape her past. Her letters home are upbeat and her friends are initially envious of descriptions of sunshine and blue sea. The truth she hides is that life on the island of Malta is fraught with extreme food shortages, daily air raids and the fear that tomorrow might never come.
The future appears far less certain as the reality of war bites into The Tobacco Girls’ lives.
Bristol 1941
As the clouds of war grow bleaker both at home and abroad, the Tobacco Girls are determined to do their bit for King and Country. To that end Maisie Miles and Bridget Milligan become voluntary ambulance drivers.
As well as coping with the frequent air raids, Maisie is kept on her toes with three new junior employees one of whom is particularly testing.
Bridget’s heart becomes torn between family loyalty and American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O’Neill III, the man she loves.
Meanwhile Phyllis Harvey has joined the WAAF, opting to serve overseas whilst trying to escape her past. Her letters home are upbeat and her friends are initially envious of descriptions of sunshine and blue sea. The truth she hides is that life on the island of Malta is fraught with extreme food shortages, daily air raids and the fear that tomorrow might never come.
The future appears far less certain as the reality of war bites into The Tobacco Girls’ lives.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2021
284 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 10, 2021
As the clouds of war grow bleaker with both at home and abroad, the Tobacco Girls are determined to do their bit for King and country. To that end Maisie Miles and Bridget Milligan become volunteer ambulance drivers. Phyllis Harvey joins the WAAF, opting to serve overseas whilst trying to escape her past.
Set in Bristol, 1941: After meeting and making great friends at the tobacco factory, the women are doing their bit for the war effort. Maisie and Bridget volunteer as ambulance drivers and Phyllis joined the WAAF, serving overseas. The girls continue to support each other through every occurrence. Maisie and Bridget manage to keep in touch with Phyllis even though she is overseas. They all have problems they need to solve. This is also an informative read. The book can be read as a standalone but I would, if you can, read this series in the order they were written in. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LizzieLane for my ARC of #FireAndFuryForTheTobaccoGirls in exchange for an honest review.
Set in Bristol, 1941: After meeting and making great friends at the tobacco factory, the women are doing their bit for the war effort. Maisie and Bridget volunteer as ambulance drivers and Phyllis joined the WAAF, serving overseas. The girls continue to support each other through every occurrence. Maisie and Bridget manage to keep in touch with Phyllis even though she is overseas. They all have problems they need to solve. This is also an informative read. The book can be read as a standalone but I would, if you can, read this series in the order they were written in. You won't be disappointed.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LizzieLane for my ARC of #FireAndFuryForTheTobaccoGirls in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2021
This lovely book was set in London during the Blitz and followed the lives of three women who worked in a tobacco factory. It was interesting and sad at times but I loved it. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
September 30, 2021
I love wartime fiction and reading about the lives of those on the home front doing their bit for the war effort as well as those who have signed up. While the menfolk have been shipped off to fight the Germans, the womenfolk are left behind to keep the home fires burning with some volunteering or signing up with the women's services such as Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAFs), the Women's Royal Navy Service (Wrens), the Women's Volunteer Service (WVS), the Auxiliary Transport Service (ATS), the First Aid and Ambulance Service and so much more. There were many ways in which women could help the war effort besides employment at munitions factories (one of the highest paid).
It's 1941 and we return to Bristol for the third installment of this wonderful saga, FIRE AND FURY FOR THE TOBACCO GIRLS, in which we see the girls doing more than just working at the tobacco factory. When we first met them, Bridget Milligan and Phyllis Mason had taken young Maisie Miles under their wing a the factory and the women had soon become firm friends.
Maisie was from the rough end of town and running from a home life she wished to escape and from which her stepfather Frank Miles had brought the sleazy Eddie Bridgeman into their lives. Eddie, who liked his girls underage and had his sights set on Maisie, but she had the protection of the girls at the tobacco factory and soon enough that of her grandmother, Rose Wells. Now Eddie had a new interest...a new girl at the factory Carole Thomas. But Maisie was wise to Eddie's motives and vowed to protect Carole at all costs, taking her and two other girls, Pauline and Jane, under her wing at the factory and on the ambulances where Carole and Jane decided to volunteer alongside Maisie and Bridget. Added to that, she has also discovered that he has been stealing and profiteering from the jewellery of those who have been bombed out in air raids which makes her blood boil. However she needs evidence before taking matters further. But will Maisie be able to get the better of Eddie before he stakes his claim on young Carole?
Now promoted to the packing room at the tobacco factory, Bridget's life is something of a quandary. She enjoys her work at Wills and her friendship with Maisie but she longs to be with Lyndon O'Neill, the wealthy American tobacco plantation owner who won her heart in the first book. He continues his visits to London and Bristol in between return trips to the US that Bridget just wants to settle down with him. However, when Lyndon pops the question it hadn't occurred to her that she would then be relocating to America where his plantation and his work is. And now she finds herself in a conundrum. She loves Lyndon and wants to marry him, but she doesn't want to leave her family and move to America. Maisie's advice is to live in the moment as you don't know what tomorrow holds. But when Lyndon returns home believing he would be back in England before long, he is told that his services are needed in the Philipines by way of Pearl Harbour first. It would seem their reuniting will be some time off.
Meanwhile, Phyllis Harvey (nee Mason) signed up to the WAAFs at the end of the previous book, in an attempt to escape her overbearing mother-in-law who believed her place was at home waiting for her husband Robert to return. But when a telegram arrived stating Robert was missing presumed dead at Dunkirk, Phyllis saw this as an opportunity to leave the prison in which she had found herself since marrying the man who controlled her every move. Her letters home to best friends Bridget and Maisie couldn't reveal where she was or where she was heading, but enough hints dropped told the clever Bridget that she was in Gibraltar which meant she was on route to Malta. Her work as a WAAF was rewarding as well as exhausting and Malta was under constant attack from Italy, who were allied with the Germans. Still it was the perfect place to put enough distance between herself and her troubled past in the fervent hope that she could move on. Her letters to her friends were filled with sunshine and happiness, revealing nothing of the daily air raids and extreme food shortages. Phyllis swears when this war is over she never wants to see another tomato again! But then she receives news from her friends she never expected to hear...and now she doesn't know what to do with it. Of course her situation becomes more confusing when she meets handsome Australian Mick Fairbrother. What would he think of her if he knew the truth?
And then there is Carole, the new girl at the tobacco factory who has caught to attentions of Eddie Bridgeman, a thorn in many peoples' sides particularly Maisie's in the past. Living on the poverty stricken Sally Lane, Carole's mother sleeps during the day for she works on her back all night entertaining men at all hours. When she was small, Mavis used to lock Carole in the cellar whilst entertaining her gentlemen callers but now that she is older she simply throws her out of the house, telling her to stay out while she works. Carole has been known to huddle in alleys and shopfronts to keep warm. But now that she is fourteen she has started work at the tobacco factory and is all front from the first moment she walks in, giving off the air that she doesn't two hoots about being there. But Maisie knows different. She recognises something in Carole that had been in her when she first started at the factory...and she knew that there was a story behind that tough exterior. Little did she know that that story lead right to Eddie Bridgeman, the thorn in her side of her childhood.
The women come together in this series as the air raids continue to blitz Bristol as well as London and other major cities throughout the country. Bridget and Maisie began as first aiders but are then trained up as ambulance drivers, taking the younger girls as first aiders and their assistants. Bridget takes Jane while Carole accompanies Maisie where she can keep an eye on the young girl who reminds her so much of herself at that age. But the bombing brutal and some can't take the pressure or the fear and flee for their lives only to be shot down at the first instance. Phyllis had always been a good time girl but a few harsh realities taught her to face up to things and whilst serving her country overseas is also now enjoying a new-found freedom. In the couple of years since the war began, the young women have grown up in the shadow of conflict. It has brought them closer together despite distance keeping some of them apart and no matter what life throws at them they will always hold each other close at heart.
There were a few instances that occurred in the book where the story appeared to have jumped with the reader only learning of something taking place third hand in a following chapter with no hint of it having occurred when last reading of those characters. It felt a little convoluted in that respect and not so smooth a transition. Of course, the following chapter would take us to where the story continues from where we should have seen it first hand in the first place. That would be my only complaint about an otherwise engrossing story and wonderful addition to the series.
The note upon which this book ended has naturally paved the way for what we all anticipate happening next, particularly in the case of Lyndon, and yet leaves us wondering how that will play out. As for Phyllis...where does the future see her? I know I would like to see more of Carole and watch her grow into herself just as Maisie did before her. And I would like to see how the situation with Eddie is handled just as Maisie cleverly handled her stepfather. There was a little twist I had anticipated earlier on and I wonder how that will affect Eddie's pursuit of Carole.
I really enjoyed FIRE AND FURY FOR THE TOBACCO GIRLS and naturally look forward to seeing where the road takes all of them next. Although part of a series, this book suffices as a standalone but to garnish the entire backstory of each of the characters I thoroughly recommend starting at the beginning. You won't be disappointed.
Perfect for fans of wartime fiction as well as Pam Howes, Nadine Dorries, Nancy Revell and Rosie Clarke.
I would like to thank #LizzieLane, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #FireAndFuryForTheTobaccoGirls in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
It's 1941 and we return to Bristol for the third installment of this wonderful saga, FIRE AND FURY FOR THE TOBACCO GIRLS, in which we see the girls doing more than just working at the tobacco factory. When we first met them, Bridget Milligan and Phyllis Mason had taken young Maisie Miles under their wing a the factory and the women had soon become firm friends.
Maisie was from the rough end of town and running from a home life she wished to escape and from which her stepfather Frank Miles had brought the sleazy Eddie Bridgeman into their lives. Eddie, who liked his girls underage and had his sights set on Maisie, but she had the protection of the girls at the tobacco factory and soon enough that of her grandmother, Rose Wells. Now Eddie had a new interest...a new girl at the factory Carole Thomas. But Maisie was wise to Eddie's motives and vowed to protect Carole at all costs, taking her and two other girls, Pauline and Jane, under her wing at the factory and on the ambulances where Carole and Jane decided to volunteer alongside Maisie and Bridget. Added to that, she has also discovered that he has been stealing and profiteering from the jewellery of those who have been bombed out in air raids which makes her blood boil. However she needs evidence before taking matters further. But will Maisie be able to get the better of Eddie before he stakes his claim on young Carole?
Now promoted to the packing room at the tobacco factory, Bridget's life is something of a quandary. She enjoys her work at Wills and her friendship with Maisie but she longs to be with Lyndon O'Neill, the wealthy American tobacco plantation owner who won her heart in the first book. He continues his visits to London and Bristol in between return trips to the US that Bridget just wants to settle down with him. However, when Lyndon pops the question it hadn't occurred to her that she would then be relocating to America where his plantation and his work is. And now she finds herself in a conundrum. She loves Lyndon and wants to marry him, but she doesn't want to leave her family and move to America. Maisie's advice is to live in the moment as you don't know what tomorrow holds. But when Lyndon returns home believing he would be back in England before long, he is told that his services are needed in the Philipines by way of Pearl Harbour first. It would seem their reuniting will be some time off.
Meanwhile, Phyllis Harvey (nee Mason) signed up to the WAAFs at the end of the previous book, in an attempt to escape her overbearing mother-in-law who believed her place was at home waiting for her husband Robert to return. But when a telegram arrived stating Robert was missing presumed dead at Dunkirk, Phyllis saw this as an opportunity to leave the prison in which she had found herself since marrying the man who controlled her every move. Her letters home to best friends Bridget and Maisie couldn't reveal where she was or where she was heading, but enough hints dropped told the clever Bridget that she was in Gibraltar which meant she was on route to Malta. Her work as a WAAF was rewarding as well as exhausting and Malta was under constant attack from Italy, who were allied with the Germans. Still it was the perfect place to put enough distance between herself and her troubled past in the fervent hope that she could move on. Her letters to her friends were filled with sunshine and happiness, revealing nothing of the daily air raids and extreme food shortages. Phyllis swears when this war is over she never wants to see another tomato again! But then she receives news from her friends she never expected to hear...and now she doesn't know what to do with it. Of course her situation becomes more confusing when she meets handsome Australian Mick Fairbrother. What would he think of her if he knew the truth?
And then there is Carole, the new girl at the tobacco factory who has caught to attentions of Eddie Bridgeman, a thorn in many peoples' sides particularly Maisie's in the past. Living on the poverty stricken Sally Lane, Carole's mother sleeps during the day for she works on her back all night entertaining men at all hours. When she was small, Mavis used to lock Carole in the cellar whilst entertaining her gentlemen callers but now that she is older she simply throws her out of the house, telling her to stay out while she works. Carole has been known to huddle in alleys and shopfronts to keep warm. But now that she is fourteen she has started work at the tobacco factory and is all front from the first moment she walks in, giving off the air that she doesn't two hoots about being there. But Maisie knows different. She recognises something in Carole that had been in her when she first started at the factory...and she knew that there was a story behind that tough exterior. Little did she know that that story lead right to Eddie Bridgeman, the thorn in her side of her childhood.
The women come together in this series as the air raids continue to blitz Bristol as well as London and other major cities throughout the country. Bridget and Maisie began as first aiders but are then trained up as ambulance drivers, taking the younger girls as first aiders and their assistants. Bridget takes Jane while Carole accompanies Maisie where she can keep an eye on the young girl who reminds her so much of herself at that age. But the bombing brutal and some can't take the pressure or the fear and flee for their lives only to be shot down at the first instance. Phyllis had always been a good time girl but a few harsh realities taught her to face up to things and whilst serving her country overseas is also now enjoying a new-found freedom. In the couple of years since the war began, the young women have grown up in the shadow of conflict. It has brought them closer together despite distance keeping some of them apart and no matter what life throws at them they will always hold each other close at heart.
There were a few instances that occurred in the book where the story appeared to have jumped with the reader only learning of something taking place third hand in a following chapter with no hint of it having occurred when last reading of those characters. It felt a little convoluted in that respect and not so smooth a transition. Of course, the following chapter would take us to where the story continues from where we should have seen it first hand in the first place. That would be my only complaint about an otherwise engrossing story and wonderful addition to the series.
The note upon which this book ended has naturally paved the way for what we all anticipate happening next, particularly in the case of Lyndon, and yet leaves us wondering how that will play out. As for Phyllis...where does the future see her? I know I would like to see more of Carole and watch her grow into herself just as Maisie did before her. And I would like to see how the situation with Eddie is handled just as Maisie cleverly handled her stepfather. There was a little twist I had anticipated earlier on and I wonder how that will affect Eddie's pursuit of Carole.
I really enjoyed FIRE AND FURY FOR THE TOBACCO GIRLS and naturally look forward to seeing where the road takes all of them next. Although part of a series, this book suffices as a standalone but to garnish the entire backstory of each of the characters I thoroughly recommend starting at the beginning. You won't be disappointed.
Perfect for fans of wartime fiction as well as Pam Howes, Nadine Dorries, Nancy Revell and Rosie Clarke.
I would like to thank #LizzieLane, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #FireAndFuryForTheTobaccoGirls in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
October 11, 2021
Set in 1940s wartime Bristol, the reader dips into the lives of three young women. This is the third book in the series and though I have yet to read the first, 'The Tobacco Girls', I did read the second, 'Dark Days for the Tobacco Girls' and I hugely enjoyed this story, Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls. Lizzie Lane includes occasional reminders here and there as to what happened to the young women previously, so this works as an individual novel. The women are Bridget Milligan, Maisie Miles and Phyllis Harvey (née Mason), known as the Three Ms. Bridget and Maisie are working at the W. D. & H. O. Wills tobacco factory and are volunteer ambulance drivers whilst married Phyllis has joined the WAAF and is posted overseas.
In Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls, there's a new girl at the factory; fourteen-year-old Carole accompanies Maisie so she takes her under her wing. The other newbies are Jane and Pauline. Readers get to see the effects of the horrors of war through the author's terrifically evocative writing. There are dashes of delight scattered throughout the tale as well, in terms of treasured friendship, support and love. An atmospheric, heartwarming read with a tantalising ending, I now find myself desperate to catch up with book one as well as wondering what's in store for the Three Ms in the fourth instalment.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls, there's a new girl at the factory; fourteen-year-old Carole accompanies Maisie so she takes her under her wing. The other newbies are Jane and Pauline. Readers get to see the effects of the horrors of war through the author's terrifically evocative writing. There are dashes of delight scattered throughout the tale as well, in terms of treasured friendship, support and love. An atmospheric, heartwarming read with a tantalising ending, I now find myself desperate to catch up with book one as well as wondering what's in store for the Three Ms in the fourth instalment.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
June 23, 2023
Book 3 in the tobacco series. Yet again another lovely read.
February 3, 2022
I do like this series of books and Lizzie Lane takes us again on a wonderful journey with Maisie, Bridget and Phyllis, showing us different sides again to the war and also introducing new characters like Carole to bring more depth to the story and to take us in all directions, showing us the war in all its different guises - home and away. Phyllis is now serving overseas so we are now seeing the war through the services while Maisie and Bridget carry on at the factory. Even though there are books before this one in the series, it can be read before the others as the recaps are enough to let you know what is going on, but they wouldn't spoil the story to read 'catch up'. Can't wait for the next instalment as lots of threads to finish! I was left at the end of the book hanging!!
December 7, 2021
Just like the 2 previous books, this one too holds your attention, heart in mouth moments, happy, sad and quite witty, love this series so far and can wait... well I'm going to have to, til March 2022.
Also the narrator, Penelope Freeman makes this book a pleasure to listen to, brilliant narrator.
Also the narrator, Penelope Freeman makes this book a pleasure to listen to, brilliant narrator.
December 7, 2024
I love this series- if you like hf and drama this is such a good series to read!
August 10, 2021
Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls by Lizzie Lane is a great WWII-era historical fiction that is the third book in the Tobacco Girls series.
I really enjoyed the self-titled first book, and the second book, Dark Days for the Tobacco Girls, even more, so I knew I wanted to visit the girls again to see what would be happening next. I enjoyed this so much that I devoured it in less then two days!
This one starts off after the first in Bristol 1941. It continues to follow the life and times of three young women whom are friends: Maisie, Phyllis, and Bridget.
Maisie and Bridget are trying to do their part in the war effort by now volunteering as ambulance drivers. It definitely exposes them to so much more ups and downs then they could have ever imagined.
Phyllis ends up being drawn into a different path by volunteering for the WAAF. They keep in contact despite the distance, but Phyllis has her own battles to face.
I loved that through thick and thin, imperfections and mistakes, the girls continue to support one another and continue to try to help their country and give it all they have got. They are still trying to find their place in this world during such a difficult time. As with life, battles at home and far away will continue for them, and I look forward to seeing what they have to look forward to next.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Boldwood Books for this wonderful 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 it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
From the Publisher:
Pre-order Link: https://amzn.to/2U9GTJL
As war rages, everyone has to do their bit...
Bristol 1941
As the clouds of war grow bleaker both at home and abroad, the Tobacco Girls are determined to do their bit for King and Country. To that end Maisie Miles and Bridget Milligan become voluntary ambulance drivers.
As well as coping with the frequent air raids, Maisie is kept on her toes with three new junior employees one of whom is particularly testing.
Bridget’s heart becomes torn between family loyalty and American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O’Neill III, the man she loves.
Meanwhile Phyllis Harvey has joined the WAAF, opting to serve overseas whilst trying to escape her past. Her letters home are upbeat and her friends are initially envious of descriptions of sunshine and blue sea.
The truth she hides is that life on the island of Malta is fraught with extreme food shortages, daily air raids and the fear that tomorrow might never come.
The future appears far less certain as the reality of war bites into The Tobacco Girls’ lives.
About Lizzie Lane
Lizzie Lane is the author of over 50 books, a number of which have been bestsellers. She was born and bred in Bristol where many of her family worked in the cigarette and cigar factories. This has inspired her new saga series for Boldwood The Tobacco Girls.
Follow Lizzie Lane
Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/LizzieLaneNewsletter
BookBub: bookbub.com/authors/lizzie-lane
I really enjoyed the self-titled first book, and the second book, Dark Days for the Tobacco Girls, even more, so I knew I wanted to visit the girls again to see what would be happening next. I enjoyed this so much that I devoured it in less then two days!
This one starts off after the first in Bristol 1941. It continues to follow the life and times of three young women whom are friends: Maisie, Phyllis, and Bridget.
Maisie and Bridget are trying to do their part in the war effort by now volunteering as ambulance drivers. It definitely exposes them to so much more ups and downs then they could have ever imagined.
Phyllis ends up being drawn into a different path by volunteering for the WAAF. They keep in contact despite the distance, but Phyllis has her own battles to face.
I loved that through thick and thin, imperfections and mistakes, the girls continue to support one another and continue to try to help their country and give it all they have got. They are still trying to find their place in this world during such a difficult time. As with life, battles at home and far away will continue for them, and I look forward to seeing what they have to look forward to next.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Boldwood Books for this wonderful 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 it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
From the Publisher:
Pre-order Link: https://amzn.to/2U9GTJL
As war rages, everyone has to do their bit...
Bristol 1941
As the clouds of war grow bleaker both at home and abroad, the Tobacco Girls are determined to do their bit for King and Country. To that end Maisie Miles and Bridget Milligan become voluntary ambulance drivers.
As well as coping with the frequent air raids, Maisie is kept on her toes with three new junior employees one of whom is particularly testing.
Bridget’s heart becomes torn between family loyalty and American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O’Neill III, the man she loves.
Meanwhile Phyllis Harvey has joined the WAAF, opting to serve overseas whilst trying to escape her past. Her letters home are upbeat and her friends are initially envious of descriptions of sunshine and blue sea.
The truth she hides is that life on the island of Malta is fraught with extreme food shortages, daily air raids and the fear that tomorrow might never come.
The future appears far less certain as the reality of war bites into The Tobacco Girls’ lives.
About Lizzie Lane
Lizzie Lane is the author of over 50 books, a number of which have been bestsellers. She was born and bred in Bristol where many of her family worked in the cigarette and cigar factories. This has inspired her new saga series for Boldwood The Tobacco Girls.
Follow Lizzie Lane
Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/LizzieLaneNewsletter
BookBub: bookbub.com/authors/lizzie-lane
September 30, 2021
I have been a fan of Lizzie’s work for a while now. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written to date but I have read and loved several of her books. I especially love the series featuring ‘The Tobacco Girls’. I read, loved and reviewed the first two books in the series and I couldn’t wait to read the third instalment. Well ladies and gents the third book in the series, called ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ has just been released and it is another corker of a read from Lizzie Lane, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading but more about that in a bit.
Oh my word, ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ was one hell of a fantastic read and then some. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read the book shortly before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was ever so slightly delayed and I had a distinct ‘lack of sleep’ hangover the following morning. This book was constantly on my mind- if I wasn’t reading the book, I was thinking about it and if I had to put the book down for any length of time, then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick it up again. I think part of the attraction of the story was that over the series I have grown to know certain characters so well and they seem more like friends than characters in a book. I was concerned about ‘The Tobacco Girls’ and so I had to keep reading to see how the different characters were affected by what happens in the story. I couldn’t turn the pages of the book quickly enough as I made my way through the book. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say farewell to the characters. I found ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ to be a gripping and at times a very emotional read, which held my attention throughout and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ is superbly written. I thought that the first two books in the series were good but this one is even better than the first two books. Lizzie has one of those writing styles that is easy to get along with and easy to get used to. She certainly knows how to grab your attention with an eye catching synopsis and she draws you into the story. I also love the way in which Lizzie makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. For me the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly brisk pace throughout. I find that if I enjoy a book to the extent that I enjoyed this one, then I become far too involved in the story and talk to the characters as if they can hear me. I did exactly that with ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’. I did go on a bit of an emotional journey with the tobacco girls and I found myself feeling the same sorts of emotions as the characters were feeling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lizzie’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board can only be 5* out of 5*.
Oh my word, ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ was one hell of a fantastic read and then some. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read the book shortly before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was ever so slightly delayed and I had a distinct ‘lack of sleep’ hangover the following morning. This book was constantly on my mind- if I wasn’t reading the book, I was thinking about it and if I had to put the book down for any length of time, then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick it up again. I think part of the attraction of the story was that over the series I have grown to know certain characters so well and they seem more like friends than characters in a book. I was concerned about ‘The Tobacco Girls’ and so I had to keep reading to see how the different characters were affected by what happens in the story. I couldn’t turn the pages of the book quickly enough as I made my way through the book. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say farewell to the characters. I found ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ to be a gripping and at times a very emotional read, which held my attention throughout and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ is superbly written. I thought that the first two books in the series were good but this one is even better than the first two books. Lizzie has one of those writing styles that is easy to get along with and easy to get used to. She certainly knows how to grab your attention with an eye catching synopsis and she draws you into the story. I also love the way in which Lizzie makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. For me the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly brisk pace throughout. I find that if I enjoy a book to the extent that I enjoyed this one, then I become far too involved in the story and talk to the characters as if they can hear me. I did exactly that with ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’. I did go on a bit of an emotional journey with the tobacco girls and I found myself feeling the same sorts of emotions as the characters were feeling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Fire & Fury For The Tobacco Girls’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lizzie’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board can only be 5* out of 5*.
December 28, 2021
Lizzie Lane’s Tobacco girls are back for another dramatic, emotional and immersive installment that will have readers reaching for their tissues.
In 1941, the war continues to rage on sparing no prisoners and causing untold damage, heartache and despair. The Tobacco girls cannot sit idly by while Britain tries its utmost to beat Hitler, so they vow to do their bit for their country. Rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck in has never been a problem for the Tobacco girls and they take to their new duties like ducks to water. Becoming voluntary ambulance drivers is hard work, but Maisie and Bridget refuse to be deterred – despite of all the drama and turmoil going on in their personal lives.
Maisie not only has the air raids to cope with, but three junior employees are testing her patience with each passing day. On the other hand, Bridget is torn between duty to her family and her love for American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O’Neill III, whom she’s fallen head over heels in love with. Phyllis Harvey has joined the WAAFs and is desperate for her first posting abroad. She cannot wait to leave her troubled past behind, but has she bitten off more than she chew? Her posting to Malta looks set to be idyllic, but far from sandy beaches and blue skies, Phyllis has to cope with food shortages, air raids and constant fear.
The coming months will be testing and challenging for the Tobacco girls. Will they rise above all the obstacles standing in their way? Or will they be overwhelmed by terror, loss and despair?
Lizzie Lane’s Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is such a treat for saga fans. Gritty, emotional and so moving it will bring many a tear to readers’ eyes, Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is a tale of courage, hope and resilience that tugs at the heartstrings. Written with flair, style and sensitivity, Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls brings the wartime years to vivid life and readers cannot help but be drawn into the lives of Maisie, Bridget and Phyllis.
Perfect for Nancy Revell and Elaine Everest fans, Lizzie Lane’s Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is a superb saga ideal for curling up with on a cold autumn afternoon.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In 1941, the war continues to rage on sparing no prisoners and causing untold damage, heartache and despair. The Tobacco girls cannot sit idly by while Britain tries its utmost to beat Hitler, so they vow to do their bit for their country. Rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck in has never been a problem for the Tobacco girls and they take to their new duties like ducks to water. Becoming voluntary ambulance drivers is hard work, but Maisie and Bridget refuse to be deterred – despite of all the drama and turmoil going on in their personal lives.
Maisie not only has the air raids to cope with, but three junior employees are testing her patience with each passing day. On the other hand, Bridget is torn between duty to her family and her love for American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O’Neill III, whom she’s fallen head over heels in love with. Phyllis Harvey has joined the WAAFs and is desperate for her first posting abroad. She cannot wait to leave her troubled past behind, but has she bitten off more than she chew? Her posting to Malta looks set to be idyllic, but far from sandy beaches and blue skies, Phyllis has to cope with food shortages, air raids and constant fear.
The coming months will be testing and challenging for the Tobacco girls. Will they rise above all the obstacles standing in their way? Or will they be overwhelmed by terror, loss and despair?
Lizzie Lane’s Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is such a treat for saga fans. Gritty, emotional and so moving it will bring many a tear to readers’ eyes, Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is a tale of courage, hope and resilience that tugs at the heartstrings. Written with flair, style and sensitivity, Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls brings the wartime years to vivid life and readers cannot help but be drawn into the lives of Maisie, Bridget and Phyllis.
Perfect for Nancy Revell and Elaine Everest fans, Lizzie Lane’s Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is a superb saga ideal for curling up with on a cold autumn afternoon.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 13, 2024
"Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls" by Lizzie Lane is a poignant and evocative portrayal of life in Bristol during the tumultuous year of 1941. As war rages on, the Tobacco Girls, led by Maisie Miles and Bridget Milligan, are determined to contribute to the war effort. The novel weaves together the personal struggles and sacrifices of the characters against the backdrop of a nation at war.
Lane skillfully captures the atmosphere of wartime Bristol, depicting the challenges faced by the characters on the home front. The decision of Maisie and Bridget to become voluntary ambulance drivers adds depth to their characters, highlighting their determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The author brings to life the frequent air raids, creating a sense of urgency and fear that permeates the narrative.
The introduction of new junior employees, along with the challenges they bring, adds a layer of realism to the workplace dynamics. The character development is well-executed, allowing readers to connect with the struggles and triumphs of each Tobacco Girl. Bridget's internal conflict between family loyalty and her love for American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O'Neill III adds a compelling emotional dimension to the story.
Phyllis Harvey's decision to join the WAAF and serve overseas provides a unique perspective on the war. Lane skillfully contrasts the initial envy of Phyllis's friends with the harsh reality of her experiences on the island of Malta. The portrayal of extreme food shortages, daily air raids, and the constant fear of the unknown paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those who served in wartime.
The novel adeptly explores themes of sacrifice, friendship, and the uncertainty of the future during wartime. Lane's storytelling captures the resilience and spirit of the characters as they navigate the harsh realities of war. "Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls" is a compelling historical fiction novel that transports readers to a pivotal moment in history, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances. This poignant tale earns a solid four stars for its emotional depth, historical authenticity, and engaging storytelling.
Lane skillfully captures the atmosphere of wartime Bristol, depicting the challenges faced by the characters on the home front. The decision of Maisie and Bridget to become voluntary ambulance drivers adds depth to their characters, highlighting their determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The author brings to life the frequent air raids, creating a sense of urgency and fear that permeates the narrative.
The introduction of new junior employees, along with the challenges they bring, adds a layer of realism to the workplace dynamics. The character development is well-executed, allowing readers to connect with the struggles and triumphs of each Tobacco Girl. Bridget's internal conflict between family loyalty and her love for American tobacco tycoon Lyndon O'Neill III adds a compelling emotional dimension to the story.
Phyllis Harvey's decision to join the WAAF and serve overseas provides a unique perspective on the war. Lane skillfully contrasts the initial envy of Phyllis's friends with the harsh reality of her experiences on the island of Malta. The portrayal of extreme food shortages, daily air raids, and the constant fear of the unknown paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those who served in wartime.
The novel adeptly explores themes of sacrifice, friendship, and the uncertainty of the future during wartime. Lane's storytelling captures the resilience and spirit of the characters as they navigate the harsh realities of war. "Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls" is a compelling historical fiction novel that transports readers to a pivotal moment in history, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances. This poignant tale earns a solid four stars for its emotional depth, historical authenticity, and engaging storytelling.
August 13, 2021
We are back in Bristol during the first world war. Three girls met working for a tobacco company and are now doing their bit to help the war effort. Women are now being asked and allowed to drive ambulances during the raids and Maisie and Bridget volunteer and some new girls at the factory volunteer as first raiders. The third of the group,Phyllis, is away with the WAAF- she recently lost a baby and believes her unsuitable husband is missing in action, possibly dead. This is the third book in the series and although would stand alone is better read as part of the series (bk 1-The Tobacco girls, bk 2-Dark days for the tobacco girls). In wartime everyone wants to do their part and some are doing it for themselves. Eddie has been a thorn in many people's sides for a long time but he is powerful and has muscle on his side. When Maisie finds out that he has been blackmarketing jewelry from people hit in the raids her blood boils and she is determined that he won't get away with it. Thing is she needs to find evidence rather than just annoy Eddie as she currently is doing otherwise it could be her who sees his temper.
I enjoy this series, it's a good story line and informative along the way. Some of the simple things we take for granted let's take food for example- are described of how they were rationed and what replaced short items and the foods of the day.Things many now would turn their noses up at, but at the time food was food and in short supply- you were glad of what you could get and none of the fussiness of present times. Of how ordinary people not only worked jobs but worked nights and weekends in order to help others and of a community spirit that kept them going during what must have been a terrifying time. A highly enjoyable informative read.
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September 28, 2021
Another terrific read in this very enjoyable series!
We’ve now reached 1941 in this wonderful saga, and all three of our girls are determined to ‘do their bit’ for the war effort. Phyllis joined the WAAF and is happy to be posted abroad and put some distance between herself and her troubled past; now in Malta, she leads her friends back home to believe it’s all sun and happiness whilst in reality there are daily air raids and extreme food shortages, but she doesn’t want them to worry. Bridget and Maisie continue with their work at the cigarette factory whilst volunteering to drive ambulances on the evenings they aren’t fire-watching. Maisie has her hands full during the day watching over three new starts and Bridget is madly in love with Lyndon, her American love – but the ties to her family are strong. She will have to decide where her future lies.
I’m very fond of a good domestic saga set during WWII, and this is both and interesting and an exciting read. With these three young women all coming from differing home lives, there is a lot to be learned and I relished their individual details as well as admiring their strong bond. Lizzie Lane has her finger on the pulse of friendship and family and it all adds up to a rather exciting read! Until now, I was completely unaware that women had served on the island of Malta, and I do like to learn something new from each book. As well as focussing on the ‘we’re all in it together’ spirit, this story doesn’t shy away from the darker side of what went on during the war. While this is a complete stand-alone read, the author has the magic touch of always leaving a little something to make you eager to read the next book and this time is no different. A fabulous tale, beautifully written as expected and easily earning 4.5* and my recommendation.
We’ve now reached 1941 in this wonderful saga, and all three of our girls are determined to ‘do their bit’ for the war effort. Phyllis joined the WAAF and is happy to be posted abroad and put some distance between herself and her troubled past; now in Malta, she leads her friends back home to believe it’s all sun and happiness whilst in reality there are daily air raids and extreme food shortages, but she doesn’t want them to worry. Bridget and Maisie continue with their work at the cigarette factory whilst volunteering to drive ambulances on the evenings they aren’t fire-watching. Maisie has her hands full during the day watching over three new starts and Bridget is madly in love with Lyndon, her American love – but the ties to her family are strong. She will have to decide where her future lies.
I’m very fond of a good domestic saga set during WWII, and this is both and interesting and an exciting read. With these three young women all coming from differing home lives, there is a lot to be learned and I relished their individual details as well as admiring their strong bond. Lizzie Lane has her finger on the pulse of friendship and family and it all adds up to a rather exciting read! Until now, I was completely unaware that women had served on the island of Malta, and I do like to learn something new from each book. As well as focussing on the ‘we’re all in it together’ spirit, this story doesn’t shy away from the darker side of what went on during the war. While this is a complete stand-alone read, the author has the magic touch of always leaving a little something to make you eager to read the next book and this time is no different. A fabulous tale, beautifully written as expected and easily earning 4.5* and my recommendation.
October 22, 2021
Fire and Fury for The Tobacco Girls is a totally gripping and highly emotional read. One of the best war time based novels that I have read. I particularly enjoy WW2 stories with strong female protagonists and this book has them in spades. There is no nonsense Maisie, who is admired by her friends for her forthright attitude that quite often gets her into trouble. Phyllis Harvey, who desperately wants to escape a life with her in laws after her ill chosen husband is presumed dead. Then there’s Bridget ever the romantic who can’t believe her luck with her rich American boyfriend.
The brutality of war gets brought home to Maisie and Bridget as they train to become ambulance drivers during the air raids over the city of Bristol. Doing there bit for the war effort brings them face to face with gruesome situations and even the death of friends they work with in the tobacco factory. Phyllis who has joined the WAAF to escape her life of, what she thinks will become drudgery has been sent to Malta and endures horrific bombings and food shortages. She writes happy, life is great letters back to her two best friends so that they won’t worry about her. These girls are all strong willed in their own ways and rely on each others happiness more than they seem to realise. An escape perhaps from the horrors of war.
Although this is the third book in a series, it works equally well as a stand alone book. You get to know the characters thoroughly and I didn’t feel I had missed out on anything by not reading the first two. However I am going to go back and read them now. The book ends on a bit of a cliff hanger, yet I didn’t feel there were any loose ends. The ending definitely leaves you wanting more and I for one can not wait to get my hands on the next instalment of The Tobacco Girls.
The brutality of war gets brought home to Maisie and Bridget as they train to become ambulance drivers during the air raids over the city of Bristol. Doing there bit for the war effort brings them face to face with gruesome situations and even the death of friends they work with in the tobacco factory. Phyllis who has joined the WAAF to escape her life of, what she thinks will become drudgery has been sent to Malta and endures horrific bombings and food shortages. She writes happy, life is great letters back to her two best friends so that they won’t worry about her. These girls are all strong willed in their own ways and rely on each others happiness more than they seem to realise. An escape perhaps from the horrors of war.
Although this is the third book in a series, it works equally well as a stand alone book. You get to know the characters thoroughly and I didn’t feel I had missed out on anything by not reading the first two. However I am going to go back and read them now. The book ends on a bit of a cliff hanger, yet I didn’t feel there were any loose ends. The ending definitely leaves you wanting more and I for one can not wait to get my hands on the next instalment of The Tobacco Girls.
September 21, 2021
This is my first introduction to the work of Lizzie Lane and I had contemplated purchasing and reading the first two books in the series prior to reading this but then I thought no I'm going to review with fresh eyes and treat this just as it was and experience the author's words as a complete newcomer.
Even though this is book 3 in the series I didn't feel lost at all as the author instantly made me feel welcomed by the characters and the time and place felt very relevant to the era. I did have to smile to my face when opening the book the first chapter starts on my birthdate, a mere 27 years prior to my birth. It made me think of how much life has changed for us all since 1941 but especially the role of a woman.
Who are the Tobacco Girls? They are 3 young women who found friendship whilst working at the tobacco factory in Bristol at the start of WWII. Bridge and Maisie still work at the factory but Phyliss has signed up and joined the WAAF following so many personal events in her life which have left her shattered and in need for a complete change. Bridge and Maisie as well as working at the factory also volunteer as first aiders helping with the war effort.
This third instalment in the WWII saga follows the girls coping with their work, volunteer and personal life balance. There is a real sense of camaraderie within the factory and with all the volunteers as they tirelessly help those in need during the darker days and nights of the war. The grit and determination in these young women shines through but at times as war shows it's ugly side the cracks in the girls emotions show.
The story takes us from the streets of Bristol to the shores of the Mediterranean as Phyliss sees a different side to life within a warzone.
I thoroughly enjoyed this saga it was such a captivating read making me feel like history was brought to life with the author's words. I was gutted when I got to the end as it leaves the reader with so many concerns about the future for many. I am pleased to learn that The Tobacco Girls is a six book series so I have 3 more instalments to read which makes me so happy as I thought I had started at the end of a trilogy but in fact I'd started near the middle.
Even though this is book 3 in the series I didn't feel lost at all as the author instantly made me feel welcomed by the characters and the time and place felt very relevant to the era. I did have to smile to my face when opening the book the first chapter starts on my birthdate, a mere 27 years prior to my birth. It made me think of how much life has changed for us all since 1941 but especially the role of a woman.
Who are the Tobacco Girls? They are 3 young women who found friendship whilst working at the tobacco factory in Bristol at the start of WWII. Bridge and Maisie still work at the factory but Phyliss has signed up and joined the WAAF following so many personal events in her life which have left her shattered and in need for a complete change. Bridge and Maisie as well as working at the factory also volunteer as first aiders helping with the war effort.
This third instalment in the WWII saga follows the girls coping with their work, volunteer and personal life balance. There is a real sense of camaraderie within the factory and with all the volunteers as they tirelessly help those in need during the darker days and nights of the war. The grit and determination in these young women shines through but at times as war shows it's ugly side the cracks in the girls emotions show.
The story takes us from the streets of Bristol to the shores of the Mediterranean as Phyliss sees a different side to life within a warzone.
I thoroughly enjoyed this saga it was such a captivating read making me feel like history was brought to life with the author's words. I was gutted when I got to the end as it leaves the reader with so many concerns about the future for many. I am pleased to learn that The Tobacco Girls is a six book series so I have 3 more instalments to read which makes me so happy as I thought I had started at the end of a trilogy but in fact I'd started near the middle.
August 24, 2021
Set in 1941 Bristol, this fascinating book is about friendships, courage, love and hope during the midst of the horrors of WWII. Everyone is living in fear, constantly on edge wondering when the next air raid will come and fervently hoping their loved ones will be safe. Stemming from kindness, most characters downplay their involvement and experiences to family. They must also deal with their pasts.
Driven by a fierce need to be involved, Maisie is now an ambulance driver and instructs junior employees as well. She has her hands full and is thrown into dire emergencies where her expertise with diving in is necessary. One of her new juniors causes problems as well. Not only that but evil Eddie from her past appears.
Bridget is also a volunteer ambulance driver and faces quick decision making in life and death situations. She is also in love and must make difficult choices. Phyllis joins the WAAF and works overseas. In letters she does not detail what she is really up to. All three young ladies are faced with something from their past.
We see foibles, imperfections and bravery. I like that the characters are realistic. The interweaving of their pasts with the present is masterfully and beautifully done. The side stories do not feel like after thoughts in this series but well planned and honed. The ending is awesome as well, leaving me with the itch of wanting more!
My sincere thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this uplifting book!
Driven by a fierce need to be involved, Maisie is now an ambulance driver and instructs junior employees as well. She has her hands full and is thrown into dire emergencies where her expertise with diving in is necessary. One of her new juniors causes problems as well. Not only that but evil Eddie from her past appears.
Bridget is also a volunteer ambulance driver and faces quick decision making in life and death situations. She is also in love and must make difficult choices. Phyllis joins the WAAF and works overseas. In letters she does not detail what she is really up to. All three young ladies are faced with something from their past.
We see foibles, imperfections and bravery. I like that the characters are realistic. The interweaving of their pasts with the present is masterfully and beautifully done. The side stories do not feel like after thoughts in this series but well planned and honed. The ending is awesome as well, leaving me with the itch of wanting more!
My sincere thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this uplifting book!
October 28, 2021
Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls is a WW2 historical fiction novel.
This is the third book in the Tobacco Girls series, however I haven't read the previous two so it can be read as a stand alone.
The main characters are all strong, feisty females which I always love! The three women are all doing their part for the war effort, Bridget and Maisie are volunteering as ambulance drivers and Phyllis has volunteered for the WAAF and is posted overseas. Their voluntary work brings added tension to an already stressful time for them all. Despite being separated they all support each other through thick and thin. I really enjoyed reading the groups friendship and love the bond they have with each other.
The story is well written, informative of the times and really transports you to the place and era.
One thing I enjoyed about the book is that even though they are all living through the war, "normal" things are also happening. Work irritations, relationships and past demons impact all the women.
The novel is filled with grit and dermination, friendship, drama and elements of humour.
This is the third book in the Tobacco Girls series, however I haven't read the previous two so it can be read as a stand alone.
The main characters are all strong, feisty females which I always love! The three women are all doing their part for the war effort, Bridget and Maisie are volunteering as ambulance drivers and Phyllis has volunteered for the WAAF and is posted overseas. Their voluntary work brings added tension to an already stressful time for them all. Despite being separated they all support each other through thick and thin. I really enjoyed reading the groups friendship and love the bond they have with each other.
The story is well written, informative of the times and really transports you to the place and era.
One thing I enjoyed about the book is that even though they are all living through the war, "normal" things are also happening. Work irritations, relationships and past demons impact all the women.
The novel is filled with grit and dermination, friendship, drama and elements of humour.
September 20, 2021
While I was entertained by this book, I was put off by a number of things. Carole's behavior was really disturbing. For a fourteen year old to act like that? I know she had a horrible influence at home, but even she really didn't seem to want the attention she was getting from men. And she had to realize that if she kept it up, Eddie was going to run into her again, which she clearly didn't want. I also question why the author brought up Maisie's grandmother's work. How does that make a difference to the story? It doesn't. Everyone's morals in this story also were rather questionable. Right is right and wrong is wrong, it doesn't matter what is happening around you. So it made me like the characters a lot less. I didn't really want to finish this book, but I really did want to see how everyone would be at the end. I am assuming there will be another book after this, what with the ending. Not sure if I will come back for more or not. Just not a story that resonated with me.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 15, 2022
Set in Bristol in the Second World War, this story follows three friends who met while working in a tobacco factory. Their lives are taking different turns, as one, Phyllis, who married in haste and repented very quickly thereafter has joined up - her husband being reported missing after Dunkirk - and is on her way overseas to serve as a typist. The other two, Maisie and Bridget, continue to work at the factory, but are doing their bit as fire wardens and then ambulance drivers.
Amidst all the difficulties of the War, some are profiteering, stealing from those bombed out of homes and generally continuing their evil lives, such as Eddie Bridgeman, who has been the bane of Maisie's life.
The tale is told well (albeit with a few unnecessary repetitions) and you are swept into their world and want everything to work out for these three young lassies.
Read the series in order! I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
Amidst all the difficulties of the War, some are profiteering, stealing from those bombed out of homes and generally continuing their evil lives, such as Eddie Bridgeman, who has been the bane of Maisie's life.
The tale is told well (albeit with a few unnecessary repetitions) and you are swept into their world and want everything to work out for these three young lassies.
Read the series in order! I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
August 30, 2021
my thanks to the publisher & Netgalley for the ARC in return for an honest review which I freely give
This is book 3 where we meet up with the 3 M's of the Tobacco factory. Maisie & Bridget become ambulance drivers, the ambulances provided by the tobacco company the work for. 3 New young girls join the factory and are put under the watch full eye of Maisie, Bridget has moved departments. Phyllis has, so the joined up so the 3 M's are now the 2 M's. Although they keep in touch.
Lyndon is still on the scene meeting with Bridget. Eddie is still causing trouble.
There has to be another book, as this one ends at ........... Well I am not saying you will have to read it.
I fully recommend this and can not wait for the next one.
This is book 3 where we meet up with the 3 M's of the Tobacco factory. Maisie & Bridget become ambulance drivers, the ambulances provided by the tobacco company the work for. 3 New young girls join the factory and are put under the watch full eye of Maisie, Bridget has moved departments. Phyllis has, so the joined up so the 3 M's are now the 2 M's. Although they keep in touch.
Lyndon is still on the scene meeting with Bridget. Eddie is still causing trouble.
There has to be another book, as this one ends at ........... Well I am not saying you will have to read it.
I fully recommend this and can not wait for the next one.
September 28, 2021
Lizzie Lane is back again with the newest installment in the Tobacco Girls series. Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls have the girls right in the midst of WWII. Watching the familiar characters live through the realities of war was fascinating.
I admit that I found this book a little boring. The action scenes that surround the warlike atmosphere are wonderful. I enjoyed reading those scenes, but the other parts were predictable and dull.
I am pleased to award Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls 4 out of 5 stars. The story is enjoyable, though I still suggest reading the series from the beginning. It isn’t necessary, but I think you will enjoy this book more with the background from the first two.
I was given a copy of this book with a request for an honest review.
I admit that I found this book a little boring. The action scenes that surround the warlike atmosphere are wonderful. I enjoyed reading those scenes, but the other parts were predictable and dull.
I am pleased to award Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls 4 out of 5 stars. The story is enjoyable, though I still suggest reading the series from the beginning. It isn’t necessary, but I think you will enjoy this book more with the background from the first two.
I was given a copy of this book with a request for an honest review.
October 2, 2024
Fire and fury for the Tobacco Girls (book three the Tobacco girls series) by Lizzie Lane (Audiobook Read On Everand app)
It is now 1941 and the war is affecting everyone. Maisie and Bridget are now volunteer ambulance drivers. Maisie also becomes superviser over three challenging girls at the cigarette factory as Bridget still contemplate her future with “her” American.
Phyllis has joined the WAAF and is stationed overseas. While she writes rosy letters back home to her mates she hides how challenging her circumstances are. A young Australian man may do a lot to help those circumstances but what will he think when he finds out that Phyllis is married?
It is now 1941 and the war is affecting everyone. Maisie and Bridget are now volunteer ambulance drivers. Maisie also becomes superviser over three challenging girls at the cigarette factory as Bridget still contemplate her future with “her” American.
Phyllis has joined the WAAF and is stationed overseas. While she writes rosy letters back home to her mates she hides how challenging her circumstances are. A young Australian man may do a lot to help those circumstances but what will he think when he finds out that Phyllis is married?
September 14, 2021
I'm so happy that there is more books to come in this series. I love it. It was lovely to catch up with Bridget, Maisie and Phyllis. Such brave young women. So much drama and heartache throughout the book with a bit of a twist. I'm looking forward to seeing what becomes of Eddie in the future. I am impatiently awaiting the follow up.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this Advance Reader's Copy.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this Advance Reader's Copy.
September 20, 2021
On my goodness, Lizzie Lane has once again taken me to Bristol during WWII to be a fly on the wall, looking into the lives of Maisie, Bridget and Phyllis. Phyllis is on her way abroad unable to tell the girls were she's headed. Maisie had been made a supervisor in the Tobacco factory and is looking after 3 new girls and Bridget is pining for Lyndon...... The attention to detail is awesome and the characters are so loveable in there down-to-earth ways. Can't wait for the next one.
November 20, 2023
Not sure if it was like this in the other books but felt like this book was more repetitive…. I found myself wanting to “fast forward” many times. And not just like repeating important information from previous books - but like repeating stuff from previous chapters. Idk - gta finish the series out now and see what happens to Linden - tho I can about guess Bridget will end up with James in the end
October 15, 2021
Amazing series
I would definitely recommend this book & the 2 previous Tobacco girls series . I loved getting to know the characters, friendships & romances. I was born in Bristol & lived here all my life so I know the areas they live in etc. I can’t wait to read the next book! I do enjoy stories based in war times .
I would definitely recommend this book & the 2 previous Tobacco girls series . I loved getting to know the characters, friendships & romances. I was born in Bristol & lived here all my life so I know the areas they live in etc. I can’t wait to read the next book! I do enjoy stories based in war times .
January 15, 2022
Another excellent instalment in the lives of phyllis, Maisie and Bridget with ww2 as it’s backdrop. Can’t wait to find out what’s next for all of the girls plus the peripheral characters. You get really drawn into their lives and are almost shouting at them not to go to places or do things or egging them on.
October 5, 2021
'Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls' by Lizzie Lane is the third book in the 'Tobacco Girls' series. A book that can be read as a standalone but I generally say if you like getting really into a book and knowing what's gone on previously, read the first two.
This time,we see Maisie and Bridget determined to help the war effort and to that end they become voluntary ambulance drivers. Phyllis has signed up and joined the WAAF to escape the traumatic events she has experienced. She is posted abroad so now away from her friends but also away from everything else. This shows us the different side to the war.
Another great addition to the Tobacco Girls series. This story shows us how hard the women worked for the War effort. We see Maisie and Bridget working tirelessly, their paid job and their voluntary roles overtake their life's, but we see the camaraderie still shone through along with their grit and determination.
As always I love going back to these women. The way Lizzie Lane writes these books it makes me feel like I am back among friends. All the characters are back in this book, even ones that aren't that savoury and we see the addition of some new ones too. I love a historical saga and learning new things I didn't know before. The situation in Malta was one and that was an eye opener for me.
We do see the desperation of war for these women but we also see the laughs they have between them all. This brings a lighter tone and I also had a laugh with them as well.
A series that shows how the things that we take for granted-basic things such as food where put on rations and how they had to really make do and mend. I don't know how society of today would react...
I whizzed through 'Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls', before I knew it I had finished the last page and was back in 2021. Now to wait for the fourth book for my next instalment of World War 2 with the Tobacco Girls, that's not going to be easy.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my copy of the books.
This time,we see Maisie and Bridget determined to help the war effort and to that end they become voluntary ambulance drivers. Phyllis has signed up and joined the WAAF to escape the traumatic events she has experienced. She is posted abroad so now away from her friends but also away from everything else. This shows us the different side to the war.
Another great addition to the Tobacco Girls series. This story shows us how hard the women worked for the War effort. We see Maisie and Bridget working tirelessly, their paid job and their voluntary roles overtake their life's, but we see the camaraderie still shone through along with their grit and determination.
As always I love going back to these women. The way Lizzie Lane writes these books it makes me feel like I am back among friends. All the characters are back in this book, even ones that aren't that savoury and we see the addition of some new ones too. I love a historical saga and learning new things I didn't know before. The situation in Malta was one and that was an eye opener for me.
We do see the desperation of war for these women but we also see the laughs they have between them all. This brings a lighter tone and I also had a laugh with them as well.
A series that shows how the things that we take for granted-basic things such as food where put on rations and how they had to really make do and mend. I don't know how society of today would react...
I whizzed through 'Fire and Fury for the Tobacco Girls', before I knew it I had finished the last page and was back in 2021. Now to wait for the fourth book for my next instalment of World War 2 with the Tobacco Girls, that's not going to be easy.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my copy of the books.
October 15, 2021
Really enjoyed catching up with the three M’s again. I was really getting into the latest instalment but I was quite surprised at the abrupt ending. I look forward to catching up with them all again in March next year with Heaven and Hell for the Tobacco Girls.
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