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The Royal Correspondent
From the bestselling author of The Paris Model comes another breathtaking story of glamour, romance and espionage.
Success would depend on taking a dangerous risk.
When Blaise Hill, a feisty young journalist from one of Sydney's toughest neighbourhoods, is dispatched to London at the dawn of the swinging sixties to report on Princess Margaret's controversial marriage to an unconventional photographer, she is drawn into an elite realm of glamour and intrigue.
As the nation faces an explosive upheaval, Blaise must grapple with a series of shocking scandals at the pinnacle of British society. Yet, haunted by a threat from her past and torn between two very different men, who can she trust in a world of hidden motives and shifting alliances? If she makes the wrong choice, she will lose everything.
Inspired by real events, The Royal Correspondent is a compelling story of love and betrayal, family secrets and conspiracy that takes you from the gritty life of a daily newspaper to the opulent splendour of Buckingham Palace.
Praise for The Royal Correspondent:
'Combines romance, a splash of espionage and lots of glamour, inspired by real events' Australian Women's Weekly
'It will sweep you up with its winning combination of historical facts and fabulous fiction' Herald Sun
'Vividly brings the swinging '60s to life' Who Weekly
'This engaging read has it all - glamour, intrigue, gossip, espionage, romance and fashion ... it's a gripping read with well-drawn characters ... a well woven tale set on the cusp of changing times' Weekly Times
'A fabulous story, with an extremely compelling protagonist at its heart ... Joel has hit her stride here' Better Reading
'A world of glamour, intrigue and scandal' Woman's Day
'Engaging characters and a well-paced story line brimming with social history, romance, and mystery will captivate readers across genres' Booklist
'An engrossing story [which] will keep readers turning the pages' Publishers Weekly
Success would depend on taking a dangerous risk.
When Blaise Hill, a feisty young journalist from one of Sydney's toughest neighbourhoods, is dispatched to London at the dawn of the swinging sixties to report on Princess Margaret's controversial marriage to an unconventional photographer, she is drawn into an elite realm of glamour and intrigue.
As the nation faces an explosive upheaval, Blaise must grapple with a series of shocking scandals at the pinnacle of British society. Yet, haunted by a threat from her past and torn between two very different men, who can she trust in a world of hidden motives and shifting alliances? If she makes the wrong choice, she will lose everything.
Inspired by real events, The Royal Correspondent is a compelling story of love and betrayal, family secrets and conspiracy that takes you from the gritty life of a daily newspaper to the opulent splendour of Buckingham Palace.
Praise for The Royal Correspondent:
'Combines romance, a splash of espionage and lots of glamour, inspired by real events' Australian Women's Weekly
'It will sweep you up with its winning combination of historical facts and fabulous fiction' Herald Sun
'Vividly brings the swinging '60s to life' Who Weekly
'This engaging read has it all - glamour, intrigue, gossip, espionage, romance and fashion ... it's a gripping read with well-drawn characters ... a well woven tale set on the cusp of changing times' Weekly Times
'A fabulous story, with an extremely compelling protagonist at its heart ... Joel has hit her stride here' Better Reading
'A world of glamour, intrigue and scandal' Woman's Day
'Engaging characters and a well-paced story line brimming with social history, romance, and mystery will captivate readers across genres' Booklist
'An engrossing story [which] will keep readers turning the pages' Publishers Weekly
400 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2021
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5399 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
July 29, 2021
This is an enjoyable novel set in the late 50s and early 60s. Blaise Hill is a working class girl from inner city Sydney and she wants to be a reporter. She goes to work at the Clarion and I really enjoyed these scenes of the young woman in the very male working environment. Sent to London on assignment to report on Princess Margarets wedding, she ends up getting to be the royal correspondent on a Fleet Street paper. There’s a lot more to the story as Blaise finds herself in the middle of a spy scandal and other current events, there’s quite a bit of name dropping that set the scene very well. There’s also of course, the love interest, Adam Rule, a man with his own secrets. I found this book a load of fun but I’m sure people more into fashion and the royal family (viewers of The Crown perhaps) will like it even more.
December 14, 2021
Blaise Hill might be a girl from the poor Sydney suburbs, but she has big dreams, and she wants to be a newspaper journalist. In the late 1950’s, the women journalists working at The Clarion, write articles for the women’s pages and Blaise wants to be an investigative reporter.
Dressed in her op shop clothes, Blaise is employed as copy boy at The Clarion, she’s the butt of many jokes in the male dominated workforce and is sent off to find mystery objects! Blaise works hard, she earns a cadet ship and then she's transferred to the dreaded fifth floor. At first Blaise isn’t impressed by being moved to the women’s pages, she really underestimates the importance of wearing the right clothes, having a sound knowledge of fashion, and the opportunities it brings.
Blaise is sent to London, to write and send articles back to Australia about Princess Margaret’s wedding to a commoner Antony Armstrong Jones, held on the 6th of May 1960, and it was the first royal wedding to be televised and London hotels were booked out. With her Australian press pass, Blaise attends Buckingham Place and Westminster Abbey, and she can’t believe how lucky she is. But, espionage is rife in England's capital, politicians could be involved, and soviet spies. Blaise is drawn into the sinister side of London, not knowing who she can really trust, it’s a dangerous place and she’s extremely concerned.
Inspired by real events, Alexandra Joel used her newspaper journalist father’s stories and experiences and considered what it would have been like for a woman working in the same field during the 1950’s and early 1960’s? The Royal Correspondent is the amazing result, the story highlights the discrimination women faced in the workforce at the time, they were paid less and had to stop working when they married. The 1960's was a time of major change, fashion, dancing, music and morals. Shout by Johnny O'Keefe is a classic Australian song from the era, I loved how it was included in the narrative and all the residents of Fotheringham Street dancing to it's beat and Blaise is a character that you will never forget.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers Australia in exchange for an honest review, every page was perfect, and five big stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
Dressed in her op shop clothes, Blaise is employed as copy boy at The Clarion, she’s the butt of many jokes in the male dominated workforce and is sent off to find mystery objects! Blaise works hard, she earns a cadet ship and then she's transferred to the dreaded fifth floor. At first Blaise isn’t impressed by being moved to the women’s pages, she really underestimates the importance of wearing the right clothes, having a sound knowledge of fashion, and the opportunities it brings.
Blaise is sent to London, to write and send articles back to Australia about Princess Margaret’s wedding to a commoner Antony Armstrong Jones, held on the 6th of May 1960, and it was the first royal wedding to be televised and London hotels were booked out. With her Australian press pass, Blaise attends Buckingham Place and Westminster Abbey, and she can’t believe how lucky she is. But, espionage is rife in England's capital, politicians could be involved, and soviet spies. Blaise is drawn into the sinister side of London, not knowing who she can really trust, it’s a dangerous place and she’s extremely concerned.
Inspired by real events, Alexandra Joel used her newspaper journalist father’s stories and experiences and considered what it would have been like for a woman working in the same field during the 1950’s and early 1960’s? The Royal Correspondent is the amazing result, the story highlights the discrimination women faced in the workforce at the time, they were paid less and had to stop working when they married. The 1960's was a time of major change, fashion, dancing, music and morals. Shout by Johnny O'Keefe is a classic Australian song from the era, I loved how it was included in the narrative and all the residents of Fotheringham Street dancing to it's beat and Blaise is a character that you will never forget.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers Australia in exchange for an honest review, every page was perfect, and five big stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
September 2, 2021
A healthy dose of history with fashion, family, friendship, and intrigue. Alexandra Joel, inspired by her father's own story, has written a new novel about reporting in Australia and London. Blaise Hill is born in a rough neighborhood in Sydney, but she has big dreams. She is determined to use the Press (one of the "five P's") as a path to success. And, does she ever! Starting as a copy "boy," she sets her sights on reporting stories that matter. Along the way she becomes a royal correspondent and finds herself mixed up in international intrigue. Her family, especially her sister Ivy who is recovering from polio, is always a priority as well. I loved all the historical details from the polio epidemic to Princess Margaret's wedding and the Kennedy's famous stop in London. For those who love romance, this will not disappoint. Really well done and I definitely want to add The Paris Model to my TBR list.
Thank you to Harper Perennial and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to Harper Perennial and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review
January 26, 2021
I loved this book ❤️ It was my first book by Alexandra Joel and I could not get enough of it. I was instantly pulled into Blaise’s ever changing world, from Sydney to London I was there for it all. I love an Aussie story, even better when it is set in the swinging sixties and involves the Royal family.
It was clear that this book was incredibly well researched, with the events of the time all playing a part of Blaise’s adventure. I felt that I was in the past, living alongside the characters. I think it wold make a fantastic movie.
Blaise Hill is an ambitious working class girl from the rough streets of Enmore. She is determined to be a reporter, despite the obstacles thrown at her. She wants more for herself and her family. She won’t give up when it gets hard and earns herself an assignment in London to cover the wedding of Princess Margaret. It is an eye opening experience for the young girl, like another world. The circles she starts to move in, the fashions and music, the politics and becoming an independent woman. And of course there are no shortage of men showing her attention. 2 in particular get into her heart, but who can she trust? She has her own secrets that she need to stay secrets.
Blaise is a wonderful character, one that is growing as we read. It was an easy time to be a woman but she isn’t going to let her sex get in her way. I cant wait to read more from this author.
A big thank you to Harper Collins Australia for sending me a copy of this book to read. Out in Australia February 3rd.
It was clear that this book was incredibly well researched, with the events of the time all playing a part of Blaise’s adventure. I felt that I was in the past, living alongside the characters. I think it wold make a fantastic movie.
Blaise Hill is an ambitious working class girl from the rough streets of Enmore. She is determined to be a reporter, despite the obstacles thrown at her. She wants more for herself and her family. She won’t give up when it gets hard and earns herself an assignment in London to cover the wedding of Princess Margaret. It is an eye opening experience for the young girl, like another world. The circles she starts to move in, the fashions and music, the politics and becoming an independent woman. And of course there are no shortage of men showing her attention. 2 in particular get into her heart, but who can she trust? She has her own secrets that she need to stay secrets.
Blaise is a wonderful character, one that is growing as we read. It was an easy time to be a woman but she isn’t going to let her sex get in her way. I cant wait to read more from this author.
A big thank you to Harper Collins Australia for sending me a copy of this book to read. Out in Australia February 3rd.
September 29, 2021
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The Royal Correspondent by Alexandra Joel. (2021).
When Blaise, a feisty young journalist from Sydney's tough area, is despatched to London to report on Princess Margaret's controversial marriage, she is drawn into a realm of glamour and intrigue. As the nation faces an explosive upheaval, Blaise must grapple with a series of shocking scandals. Yet, haunted by a threat from her past and torn between two very different men, who can she trust in a world of hidden motives and shifting alliances? If she makes the wrong choice, she will lose everything...
After really enjoying this author's first novel (The Paris Model), I was keen to read this one. The author has delivered another great historical fiction that I think many readers will appreciate. This one delves into the world journalism; specifically, a time where there were not many female journalists. Our lead character, Blaise, is a feisty and intelligent young woman who has grown up in a rough neighborhood. She eventually makes her way to London where she becomes a royal correspondent and is thrown into some scintillating scandals. Meanwhile she finds herself between two men; this added some light romance to the novel however I did think she had rose-coloured glasses on with one of the men in particular. Fashion also gets a look-in and I appreciated the mix between fact and fiction.
Overall: this is a compelling and interesting story and I would happily recommend it for those that enjoy historical fiction.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Royal Correspondent by Alexandra Joel. (2021).
When Blaise, a feisty young journalist from Sydney's tough area, is despatched to London to report on Princess Margaret's controversial marriage, she is drawn into a realm of glamour and intrigue. As the nation faces an explosive upheaval, Blaise must grapple with a series of shocking scandals. Yet, haunted by a threat from her past and torn between two very different men, who can she trust in a world of hidden motives and shifting alliances? If she makes the wrong choice, she will lose everything...
After really enjoying this author's first novel (The Paris Model), I was keen to read this one. The author has delivered another great historical fiction that I think many readers will appreciate. This one delves into the world journalism; specifically, a time where there were not many female journalists. Our lead character, Blaise, is a feisty and intelligent young woman who has grown up in a rough neighborhood. She eventually makes her way to London where she becomes a royal correspondent and is thrown into some scintillating scandals. Meanwhile she finds herself between two men; this added some light romance to the novel however I did think she had rose-coloured glasses on with one of the men in particular. Fashion also gets a look-in and I appreciated the mix between fact and fiction.
Overall: this is a compelling and interesting story and I would happily recommend it for those that enjoy historical fiction.
March 15, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
‘Blaise smiled. There was nothing like a whiff of scandal to enliven an innocuous royal story.’
Triumph, victory, ambition, dedication and imperil defines The Royal Correspondent by Australian novelist Alexandra Joel. Just like her previous release The Paris Model, Joel draws on her depth and range of experience as a magazine journalist to vividly bring to life the complicated world a headstrong young journalist. A thoroughly engaging story from open to close, The Royal Correspondent is a novel that I hold in very high regard.
Leading the way in Alexandra Joel’s The Royal Correspondent is Blaise Hill, a young Sydneysider who dreams of becoming a respected journalist. Blaise comes from a tough family background and she knows that if she wants to succeed in life, she must work hard for it. When Blaise is handed the opportunity of lifetime to cover the marriage of notorious royal Princess Margaret, she begins to believe in herself. But London is a place that presents Blaise with heartache, difficult choices and mystery. With plenty of gossip and outrage to deal with Blaise must grapple with her new reporting life. Love also proves to be a difficult area for Blaise to balance with her employment, as she cannot decide who love and who to trust. In The Royal Correspondent, Alexandra Joel presents her readers with a tale that accurately contrasts the life of the privileged with those who live in the shadows of this extravagant world.
I wisely added The Royal Correspondent to my luggage on a recent trip away. Alexandra’s Joel’s latest novel was a fantastic read and I’m so glad I took it with me on my holiday. I was mesmerised by this one. With its vibrant setting, bold characters and rich line of intrigue, The Royal Correspondent was definitely a winner in my eyes. I couldn’t pull myself away from Alexandra Joel’s new book, it certainly had a magnetising effect on me!
Blaise Hill is Alexandra’s Joel engaging lead protagonist in The Royal Correspondent. Blaise is a highly admirable character and I found her extremely down to earth. We witness Blaise make a number of mistakes in her life and career, which helps us to see that she is only human, we all have our flaws. In Blaise, Alexandra Joel is able to explore female work relations and conditions in decades past. We learn about the differences in pay and opportunity for women working in the media industry in the swinging sixties. In the support cast, we have a thoroughly entertaining bunch of secondary members of Blaise’s world, who add plenty of vibrancy to this already fascinating tale. I liked the challenge Blaise faced in her two male love interests who each battle it out for her heart. This segment of the book contributes to the strong line of intrigue and mystery that underscores the story at large.
Alexandra Joel does an excellent job with her world building in The Royal Correspondent. We are directly plunged into the hedonic world of the swinging sixties, complete with its freedoms and restrictions. We also bear witness to the contrast in vast wealth and opulence, thanks to the royal scenes, which is juxtaposed to the life of a beginning female journalist, trying to make it big in a world that is dominated by male power. It is obvious that Joel has conducted a great deal of research to inform her narrative. The end result is a deeply authentic historical fiction creation, which managed to hold my full attention from cover to cover. My favourite part of The Royal Correspondent was the references made to Princess Margaret, her marriage to Tony Armstrong-Jones, Queen Elizabeth and other notable figures of this time period. The focus on the scandals that dominated the headlines of this particular era had me in complete awe. Before you close this book don’t forget to take a good look at the Author’s Note, it adds another dimension to this magnificent tale!
Take a trip down memory lane to the modernity and hedonism of the sixties in The Royal Correspondent by Alexandra Joel. This is one unmissable read by a rising star in the historical fiction world.
*Thanks extended to HarperCollins Books Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Royal Correspondent is book #18 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
‘Blaise smiled. There was nothing like a whiff of scandal to enliven an innocuous royal story.’
Triumph, victory, ambition, dedication and imperil defines The Royal Correspondent by Australian novelist Alexandra Joel. Just like her previous release The Paris Model, Joel draws on her depth and range of experience as a magazine journalist to vividly bring to life the complicated world a headstrong young journalist. A thoroughly engaging story from open to close, The Royal Correspondent is a novel that I hold in very high regard.
Leading the way in Alexandra Joel’s The Royal Correspondent is Blaise Hill, a young Sydneysider who dreams of becoming a respected journalist. Blaise comes from a tough family background and she knows that if she wants to succeed in life, she must work hard for it. When Blaise is handed the opportunity of lifetime to cover the marriage of notorious royal Princess Margaret, she begins to believe in herself. But London is a place that presents Blaise with heartache, difficult choices and mystery. With plenty of gossip and outrage to deal with Blaise must grapple with her new reporting life. Love also proves to be a difficult area for Blaise to balance with her employment, as she cannot decide who love and who to trust. In The Royal Correspondent, Alexandra Joel presents her readers with a tale that accurately contrasts the life of the privileged with those who live in the shadows of this extravagant world.
I wisely added The Royal Correspondent to my luggage on a recent trip away. Alexandra’s Joel’s latest novel was a fantastic read and I’m so glad I took it with me on my holiday. I was mesmerised by this one. With its vibrant setting, bold characters and rich line of intrigue, The Royal Correspondent was definitely a winner in my eyes. I couldn’t pull myself away from Alexandra Joel’s new book, it certainly had a magnetising effect on me!
Blaise Hill is Alexandra’s Joel engaging lead protagonist in The Royal Correspondent. Blaise is a highly admirable character and I found her extremely down to earth. We witness Blaise make a number of mistakes in her life and career, which helps us to see that she is only human, we all have our flaws. In Blaise, Alexandra Joel is able to explore female work relations and conditions in decades past. We learn about the differences in pay and opportunity for women working in the media industry in the swinging sixties. In the support cast, we have a thoroughly entertaining bunch of secondary members of Blaise’s world, who add plenty of vibrancy to this already fascinating tale. I liked the challenge Blaise faced in her two male love interests who each battle it out for her heart. This segment of the book contributes to the strong line of intrigue and mystery that underscores the story at large.
Alexandra Joel does an excellent job with her world building in The Royal Correspondent. We are directly plunged into the hedonic world of the swinging sixties, complete with its freedoms and restrictions. We also bear witness to the contrast in vast wealth and opulence, thanks to the royal scenes, which is juxtaposed to the life of a beginning female journalist, trying to make it big in a world that is dominated by male power. It is obvious that Joel has conducted a great deal of research to inform her narrative. The end result is a deeply authentic historical fiction creation, which managed to hold my full attention from cover to cover. My favourite part of The Royal Correspondent was the references made to Princess Margaret, her marriage to Tony Armstrong-Jones, Queen Elizabeth and other notable figures of this time period. The focus on the scandals that dominated the headlines of this particular era had me in complete awe. Before you close this book don’t forget to take a good look at the Author’s Note, it adds another dimension to this magnificent tale!
Take a trip down memory lane to the modernity and hedonism of the sixties in The Royal Correspondent by Alexandra Joel. This is one unmissable read by a rising star in the historical fiction world.
*Thanks extended to HarperCollins Books Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Royal Correspondent is book #18 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
October 10, 2022
Най-хубавото в книгата е българската и корица. Неустоима!
Идеята е приятна - момиче от низините и от далечна Австралия се изстрелва до професионални висоти в Англия през 50-те и 60-те. Подобни саги са били хит през 80-те и 90-те. И досега с умиление си спомням ранната Даниел Стийл и Джудит Кранц, които се пласираха и у нас, те имаха някои доста добри попадения - “Спомен”, “Пръстенът”, “ Дъщерята на Мистрал” (последната ми е любима). Надявах се това тук да е нещо подобно.
Тук обаче героинята е просто елементарна. Да и се чуди човек на журналистическата кариера. Злодеите пък са много смешни. Главен герой на практика липсва, а доколкото се мярка - е за украса, има второстепенни образи в други развлекателни книги, които са описани по-детайлно. Относно епоха и география - бегло споменати, и толкова. Романтичната нишка е, меко казано, неубедителна.
Така че основната цел на книгата - забавление за уикенда - си остана неосъществена.
1,5 ⭐️
Идеята е приятна - момиче от низините и от далечна Австралия се изстрелва до професионални висоти в Англия през 50-те и 60-те. Подобни саги са били хит през 80-те и 90-те. И досега с умиление си спомням ранната Даниел Стийл и Джудит Кранц, които се пласираха и у нас, те имаха някои доста добри попадения - “Спомен”, “Пръстенът”, “ Дъщерята на Мистрал” (последната ми е любима). Надявах се това тук да е нещо подобно.
Тук обаче героинята е просто елементарна. Да и се чуди човек на журналистическата кариера. Злодеите пък са много смешни. Главен герой на практика липсва, а доколкото се мярка - е за украса, има второстепенни образи в други развлекателни книги, които са описани по-детайлно. Относно епоха и география - бегло споменати, и толкова. Романтичната нишка е, меко казано, неубедителна.
Така че основната цел на книгата - забавление за уикенда - си остана неосъществена.
1,5 ⭐️
February 9, 2021
4.5*
Following on from Alexandra’s 2020 novel, The Paris Model, she now brings to life the upper echelons of British society, with the incorporation of the press, in the 1960s with her latest historical fiction offering. I enjoyed last year’s book and I am happy to report that once again, Alexandra has won me over with her seamless weaving of historical fact and fiction to provide her readers with a highly engaging tale.
‘ ... no matter how good you are, you’re going to be faced with plenty of brick walls for no other reason than because you’re a girl. I say ignore them. Either batter those walls down, find a way round them or else slip through the cracks - if you don’t, you won’t get anywhere. You’ve
got to back yourself Blaise - nobody else will.’
Inspired by real events, The Royal Correspondent covers love and betrayal, family secrets and even a thrilling spy conspiracy from the streets of Sydney to the swinging 60s of London. Perhaps the most inspiring story line is that of a female trying to pave her way out of the ‘Women’s Pages’ and into the ‘real news’ and to be seen (and paid) like her fellow male reporters. Add into the mix everything from Buckingham Palace Garden parties, to conspiracy theories of the Cold War, to romance and betrayal all against the backdrop of hems coming up and music in full swing. It is lively and it is liberating!
You cannot help but be inspired by Blaise as she pushes the social boundaries in her quest to be recognised for her journalism and maintain the strong, independent woman she wishes to represent in the 1960s. There is sure to be something for everyone in this multi layered story - from espionage to fashion, from getting the scoop to falling in love, readers are sure to be enthralled with this fun and lively tale.
‘Blaise drifted out of Sir Ernest’s flat, gathered her billowing skirts in her white-gloved hands and stepped into the lift. Taking several deep breaths, she told herself ‘You’ve got this, Blaise Hill. You’re simply off to a royal ball held by Her Majesty the Queen in honour of the imminent marriage of her little sister, Princess Margaret. Piece of cake. Nothing to it.’ Somehow, the words had a hollow ring.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Following on from Alexandra’s 2020 novel, The Paris Model, she now brings to life the upper echelons of British society, with the incorporation of the press, in the 1960s with her latest historical fiction offering. I enjoyed last year’s book and I am happy to report that once again, Alexandra has won me over with her seamless weaving of historical fact and fiction to provide her readers with a highly engaging tale.
‘ ... no matter how good you are, you’re going to be faced with plenty of brick walls for no other reason than because you’re a girl. I say ignore them. Either batter those walls down, find a way round them or else slip through the cracks - if you don’t, you won’t get anywhere. You’ve
got to back yourself Blaise - nobody else will.’
Inspired by real events, The Royal Correspondent covers love and betrayal, family secrets and even a thrilling spy conspiracy from the streets of Sydney to the swinging 60s of London. Perhaps the most inspiring story line is that of a female trying to pave her way out of the ‘Women’s Pages’ and into the ‘real news’ and to be seen (and paid) like her fellow male reporters. Add into the mix everything from Buckingham Palace Garden parties, to conspiracy theories of the Cold War, to romance and betrayal all against the backdrop of hems coming up and music in full swing. It is lively and it is liberating!
You cannot help but be inspired by Blaise as she pushes the social boundaries in her quest to be recognised for her journalism and maintain the strong, independent woman she wishes to represent in the 1960s. There is sure to be something for everyone in this multi layered story - from espionage to fashion, from getting the scoop to falling in love, readers are sure to be enthralled with this fun and lively tale.
‘Blaise drifted out of Sir Ernest’s flat, gathered her billowing skirts in her white-gloved hands and stepped into the lift. Taking several deep breaths, she told herself ‘You’ve got this, Blaise Hill. You’re simply off to a royal ball held by Her Majesty the Queen in honour of the imminent marriage of her little sister, Princess Margaret. Piece of cake. Nothing to it.’ Somehow, the words had a hollow ring.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 22, 2023
5 stars seems too low for this book……loved every page,nay sentence…..for me the title just does not encompass all that is involved…..there is drama,psychological manipulation, romance,humour,sadness,history,family drama just for a start and it is rolled into one magnificent,mesmerising story
We meet Blaise Hill as she sets her sights on becoming a journalist in Sydney and are treated to a fascinating look into Newspapers and Journalism and how women were not entertained in this environment back in the 50’s but how Blaise saw that as a challenge and not a hinderance,really interesting sections on this world that quickly built up a picture of the industry ( in every way )
Then we are royally 😎 given an insight into all things majestic as Blaise moves to London with the scandal and news of the day cleverly woven into the story….with all this we are embroiled in a less than perfect love triangle that offers many unexpected turns
I cant write enough to say how I enjoyed this book,literally everything about it was perfect and I eagerly went to look up the authors previous book,its simply a wonderful,all encompassing book with a fabulous authors notes and acknowledgements at the end,my only disappointment was when the book had finished……..
11/10
5 plus stars
We meet Blaise Hill as she sets her sights on becoming a journalist in Sydney and are treated to a fascinating look into Newspapers and Journalism and how women were not entertained in this environment back in the 50’s but how Blaise saw that as a challenge and not a hinderance,really interesting sections on this world that quickly built up a picture of the industry ( in every way )
Then we are royally 😎 given an insight into all things majestic as Blaise moves to London with the scandal and news of the day cleverly woven into the story….with all this we are embroiled in a less than perfect love triangle that offers many unexpected turns
I cant write enough to say how I enjoyed this book,literally everything about it was perfect and I eagerly went to look up the authors previous book,its simply a wonderful,all encompassing book with a fabulous authors notes and acknowledgements at the end,my only disappointment was when the book had finished……..
11/10
5 plus stars
May 15, 2021
When I first saw this book I thought it sounded interesting and thought it would be a book I might like. But I must say I was wrong.
Although the story and the subject was quite interesting I found it so long-winded and over-descriptive which really took away from the story itself. It just went on and on and took some time for the story to really get moving.
I hate to say it but it bored me to the point that I skipped through a lot of it.
Although the story and the subject was quite interesting I found it so long-winded and over-descriptive which really took away from the story itself. It just went on and on and took some time for the story to really get moving.
I hate to say it but it bored me to the point that I skipped through a lot of it.
Want to read
July 7, 2021Giveaway Win!
July 23, 2021
I was absolutely obsessed with the idea of this book! I loved that its an era and also a location (Sydney, Australia - at least for part of the novel) that doesn't often find a place in historical fiction novels. I was excited to read about the idea of a woman breaking into the man's world of journalism in a time when women were really coming into their own power following the war, especially in Europe. I also loved that the novel hinted at some royal family intrigue! So all of those great setups were there, but in the end I left disappointed in the overall story, but hear me out...
Joel started this novel off STRONG. I was immediately engrossed into the world of lower class Sydney and a girl, Blaise, who had a dream to work as a reporter, but has to muscle her way up. There's also her little run in with a murder that meant she had a really steamy, but mysterious introduction and subsequent meetings with Adam Rule, a mysteriously well-connected, but of course handsome man. I loved the setup of Blaise's relationship with Rule and I knew I was going to spend the novel wondering WHEN they would be able to finally be together. I also loved that Adam helps Blaise get her big break that send her off to London to cover the royal family. Blaise's initial time in London was also fun to read about! I enjoyed her little run-ins with the royal family and her little unexpected time with Adam and even was into the little love triangle that opened up between Blaise, Adam and Charlie Ashton. Of course, there is a hint at drama between Charlie and Adam that keeps the mystery going.
This is when things start to fall apart. SPOILERS AHEAD....FINAL WARNING.....Eventually, and of course stupidly Blaise chooses the wrong man, Charlie, and in the process pushes Adam away. The classic romance novel plot. I'm still with Joel here and intrigued at how Blaise will managed to get back to Adam, because we know she will and I'm ready for it. Then the last 50 or so pages became so unbelievable, honestly, so silly, that it just ruined the whole novel for me. It becomes a bad romance novel complete with the unbelievable moment that Blaise uncovers that fact that Charlie is a Russian spy, formulates a plan with the royal family for his capture, chases and catches him in her evening gown, faints and is saved by Adam (who forgives her of course), and ends with several very unnecessarily detailed love scenes and a sad suggestion that they will end up together.
Prior to this last 50 pages the novel was a solid 4 or 4.5 stars for me because I really liked Blaise and was intrigued with the new and interesting locations and storyline. I wish there was time before the September 2021 release for Joel to revisit this ending and improve it, make it more believable and less like a bad romance novel. However, I will say, I was intrigued until the end and it was a quick read for me so if you're open to that type of ending, and I know many people are, it would be a nice quick beach or summer afternoon read.
Joel started this novel off STRONG. I was immediately engrossed into the world of lower class Sydney and a girl, Blaise, who had a dream to work as a reporter, but has to muscle her way up. There's also her little run in with a murder that meant she had a really steamy, but mysterious introduction and subsequent meetings with Adam Rule, a mysteriously well-connected, but of course handsome man. I loved the setup of Blaise's relationship with Rule and I knew I was going to spend the novel wondering WHEN they would be able to finally be together. I also loved that Adam helps Blaise get her big break that send her off to London to cover the royal family. Blaise's initial time in London was also fun to read about! I enjoyed her little run-ins with the royal family and her little unexpected time with Adam and even was into the little love triangle that opened up between Blaise, Adam and Charlie Ashton. Of course, there is a hint at drama between Charlie and Adam that keeps the mystery going.
This is when things start to fall apart. SPOILERS AHEAD....FINAL WARNING.....Eventually, and of course stupidly Blaise chooses the wrong man, Charlie, and in the process pushes Adam away. The classic romance novel plot. I'm still with Joel here and intrigued at how Blaise will managed to get back to Adam, because we know she will and I'm ready for it. Then the last 50 or so pages became so unbelievable, honestly, so silly, that it just ruined the whole novel for me. It becomes a bad romance novel complete with the unbelievable moment that Blaise uncovers that fact that Charlie is a Russian spy, formulates a plan with the royal family for his capture, chases and catches him in her evening gown, faints and is saved by Adam (who forgives her of course), and ends with several very unnecessarily detailed love scenes and a sad suggestion that they will end up together.
Prior to this last 50 pages the novel was a solid 4 or 4.5 stars for me because I really liked Blaise and was intrigued with the new and interesting locations and storyline. I wish there was time before the September 2021 release for Joel to revisit this ending and improve it, make it more believable and less like a bad romance novel. However, I will say, I was intrigued until the end and it was a quick read for me so if you're open to that type of ending, and I know many people are, it would be a nice quick beach or summer afternoon read.
July 17, 2021
It's the late 1950s and Blaise is trying to become a reporter, a job that has been held exclusively by men. The only women who worked at the newspaper were the few women who worked on the women's pages which was not considered real news. When she has her first interview, she's told that she doesn't have what it takes to be a reporter but she finally gets a job as a 'copy boy' and works her way up to a night reporter job. She's ridiculed and the butt of jokes by the male reporters but she works hard to fulfill her dreams. When she makes a crucial mistake with a breaking story, she is sent to work on the women's pages. This is a job that she's always looked down on but as she makes friends and begins to enjoy the job. When she is sent to London the cover the wedding of Princess Margaret, she's thrilled with the chance to prove herself. However she left behind a potential scandal in Sydney and believes its behind her until she starts receiving mysterious letters from someone who knows her secret. London is a total change for her - it's the 60s and London is full of fun and vibrant people and the era was referred to as the Swinging Sixties. Will Blaise be able to keep her secret from jeopardizing her current exciting life or will it all blow up in her face?
I loved the main character - she was gutsy and tenacious when she went after her dream of becoming a reporter. She stood up to the men in the newsroom who wanted to belittle her for being a woman. Her life changed dramatically from the poor section of Sydney with very few clothes to London where she is respected and has a whole new wardrobe of stylish and popular clothes. It was more than the job and the clothes - Blaise continued to work hard at her job to bring the real news to the people.
I loved the writing, the plot and the characters of this novel and will read whatever the author writes in the future.
Thanks to goodreads for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
I loved the main character - she was gutsy and tenacious when she went after her dream of becoming a reporter. She stood up to the men in the newsroom who wanted to belittle her for being a woman. Her life changed dramatically from the poor section of Sydney with very few clothes to London where she is respected and has a whole new wardrobe of stylish and popular clothes. It was more than the job and the clothes - Blaise continued to work hard at her job to bring the real news to the people.
I loved the writing, the plot and the characters of this novel and will read whatever the author writes in the future.
Thanks to goodreads for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2021
While this book may have been well researched the plot had so many twists and turns it was difficult to figure out what the overall aim of the book actually was. Included in the plot is historical fact, fiction, thriller, murder, espionage, gaslighting, fashion, romance, women’s rights. Is it any wonder I struggled to find a reason to finish this, especially given the plot was predictable even with all the twists and turns between genres? I also struggled with the minor characters who made appearances in the first chapters and vaguely contributed to the final chapters. Disjointed, disappointing and don’t bother to read
September 23, 2022
Не можа да спре дъха ми книгата. Историята е много интересна , но е написана по начин, който не я предава завладяващо. Напомня ми стила на автори от 80-те години.
February 22, 2021
https://denisenewtonwrites.com/?p=2545
The Royal Correspondent
Alexandra Joel
I first encountered the work of Sydney based writer Alexandra Joel when I read her work of narrative non-fiction Rosetta: A Scandalous True Story. This book was a good example of how truth is, indeed, often stranger than fiction. In her new novel, The Royal Correspondent, fiction is blended with real people and events from Australia and England in the early 1960’s.
The author is the daughter of Sir Asher Joel, who was born in the Sydney suburb of Enmore, and went on to a long and esteemed career in journalism and the press. So it is not surprising that much of the action of this novel takes place in the rough and ready (and male dominated) world of daily newspapers.
Blaise Hill is a young woman from ‘the wrong side of the tracks’, as Enmore was regarded in the sixties, but with a passionate desire to be a journalist. She battles the entrenched sexism and outright hostility of the many men she encounters who believe that a woman’s place is at home and certainly not at a typewriter.
Much to her surprise and delight, she is sent to London to cover the wedding of Princess Margaret to photographer Anthony Armstrong-Jones, and then the opportunity to become the newspaper’s permanent royal correspondent lands in her lap.
Of course, it is not all easy sailing for Blaise. She has a secret that she cannot share with anyone. And there are two men in her life: one with secrets of his own, and one who appears to be kind, attentive, and very much in love with her. Eventually, she has to decide who to trust.
Blaise finds, to her horror, that she has somehow become entangled in a dangerous set of circumstances – and that rather than reporting on the stories, she has herself become one.
The novel’s settings (both Sydney and London) are vividly portrayed: the poverty of her childhood, with the scourge of a polio outbreak and the struggle to make ends meet, is contrasted with the glamour and excitement of the ‘swinging sixties’ in London and the pomp and ceremony of Royal events.
Blaise is a relatable character: her deep love for her family and her determination to succeed in her career are set against her uncertainty in the new situations she must confront. I also liked that she has a bit of a temper which occasionally lands her in trouble!
What I enjoyed most about The Royal Correspondent was the seamless way in which real-life characters and events from this time are dropped into the narrative. I had fun spotting the personalities and scandals that filled newspapers and magazines in the decade of my childhood.
It’s also a good reminder, if one were needed, of the barriers that prevented the full participation of women in the workplace and society: unequal pay; the sequestering by men of the important and interesting jobs (leaving most female journalists working on the ‘women’s pages’ of publications); the requirement that women resign from public sector jobs once they married; male-only clubs; a bar against women entering public bars; just to name a few.
I thought The Royal Correspondent was, in parts, a little reminiscent of a twentieth-century Pride and Prejudice. However, I enjoyed the characters and setting, and the intrigue kept my interest throughout. There is an informative Author’s Note (which I always love to read, especially in novels with an historical setting) which pinpoints the inspiration for many of the novel’s component parts. Overall, The Royal Correspondent is a satisfying read.
The Royal Correspondent is published by HarperCollins Australia in February 2021.
My thanks to the publishers for a review copy.
The Royal Correspondent
Alexandra Joel
I first encountered the work of Sydney based writer Alexandra Joel when I read her work of narrative non-fiction Rosetta: A Scandalous True Story. This book was a good example of how truth is, indeed, often stranger than fiction. In her new novel, The Royal Correspondent, fiction is blended with real people and events from Australia and England in the early 1960’s.
The author is the daughter of Sir Asher Joel, who was born in the Sydney suburb of Enmore, and went on to a long and esteemed career in journalism and the press. So it is not surprising that much of the action of this novel takes place in the rough and ready (and male dominated) world of daily newspapers.
Blaise Hill is a young woman from ‘the wrong side of the tracks’, as Enmore was regarded in the sixties, but with a passionate desire to be a journalist. She battles the entrenched sexism and outright hostility of the many men she encounters who believe that a woman’s place is at home and certainly not at a typewriter.
Much to her surprise and delight, she is sent to London to cover the wedding of Princess Margaret to photographer Anthony Armstrong-Jones, and then the opportunity to become the newspaper’s permanent royal correspondent lands in her lap.
Of course, it is not all easy sailing for Blaise. She has a secret that she cannot share with anyone. And there are two men in her life: one with secrets of his own, and one who appears to be kind, attentive, and very much in love with her. Eventually, she has to decide who to trust.
Blaise finds, to her horror, that she has somehow become entangled in a dangerous set of circumstances – and that rather than reporting on the stories, she has herself become one.
The novel’s settings (both Sydney and London) are vividly portrayed: the poverty of her childhood, with the scourge of a polio outbreak and the struggle to make ends meet, is contrasted with the glamour and excitement of the ‘swinging sixties’ in London and the pomp and ceremony of Royal events.
Blaise is a relatable character: her deep love for her family and her determination to succeed in her career are set against her uncertainty in the new situations she must confront. I also liked that she has a bit of a temper which occasionally lands her in trouble!
What I enjoyed most about The Royal Correspondent was the seamless way in which real-life characters and events from this time are dropped into the narrative. I had fun spotting the personalities and scandals that filled newspapers and magazines in the decade of my childhood.
It’s also a good reminder, if one were needed, of the barriers that prevented the full participation of women in the workplace and society: unequal pay; the sequestering by men of the important and interesting jobs (leaving most female journalists working on the ‘women’s pages’ of publications); the requirement that women resign from public sector jobs once they married; male-only clubs; a bar against women entering public bars; just to name a few.
I thought The Royal Correspondent was, in parts, a little reminiscent of a twentieth-century Pride and Prejudice. However, I enjoyed the characters and setting, and the intrigue kept my interest throughout. There is an informative Author’s Note (which I always love to read, especially in novels with an historical setting) which pinpoints the inspiration for many of the novel’s component parts. Overall, The Royal Correspondent is a satisfying read.
The Royal Correspondent is published by HarperCollins Australia in February 2021.
My thanks to the publishers for a review copy.
December 10, 2021
Thank you Alexandra Joel, the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for a copy of this book for an honest review.
This historical novel is set in both Australia and England from 1957 to 1960. When Blaise Hill completed secondary school, she is determined to become a reporter as a way to rise from her working class background and provide for her Polio-ridden sister. She moves up the ranks from copy boy in Sydney to royal correspondent in London. Early in the book, she is a witness and accomplice after the fact to a crime, which follows her in unexpected way. This book also has a romance. She meets two men who are very difficult in character, and needs to chose one.
I really liked Blaise Hill because she was smart, motivated, and hardworking. She was able to adapt to different situations and establish new relationships with people from all walks of life.
There were numerous themes throughout the novel: the role of women in society, the underworld, political intrigue, and romance. They were all woven together for a satisfying ending.
The book was well researched. I enjoyed how actual events were included in the story, such as the Profumo affair and the royal wedding. It was interesting to read how newspapers were published in this time period. I also enjoyed the fashion and the references to Mary Quaint.
My only criticism is that the romance between Blaise and Adam felt rushed. I had a hard time believing that they had fallen in love after so few meetings.
This historical novel is set in both Australia and England from 1957 to 1960. When Blaise Hill completed secondary school, she is determined to become a reporter as a way to rise from her working class background and provide for her Polio-ridden sister. She moves up the ranks from copy boy in Sydney to royal correspondent in London. Early in the book, she is a witness and accomplice after the fact to a crime, which follows her in unexpected way. This book also has a romance. She meets two men who are very difficult in character, and needs to chose one.
I really liked Blaise Hill because she was smart, motivated, and hardworking. She was able to adapt to different situations and establish new relationships with people from all walks of life.
There were numerous themes throughout the novel: the role of women in society, the underworld, political intrigue, and romance. They were all woven together for a satisfying ending.
The book was well researched. I enjoyed how actual events were included in the story, such as the Profumo affair and the royal wedding. It was interesting to read how newspapers were published in this time period. I also enjoyed the fashion and the references to Mary Quaint.
My only criticism is that the romance between Blaise and Adam felt rushed. I had a hard time believing that they had fallen in love after so few meetings.
October 24, 2021
TW: Rape, suicide, and sexual assault. I really wanted to love this book. The premise was neat: a female journalist from the 1950s breaks into the boys club and eventually becomes a royal correspondant for Princess Margaret's wedding. But there are several problematic things that had me almost stop reading. 1) There's a sexual assault scene that's treated very glibly by the author and also feels completely unnecessary to the plot. There are also several mentions of rape that, in my opinion, weren't treated sensitively. 2) A large portion of the book feels like it could have been cut out completely. I enjoyed the first 100 pages and the last 60 or so, but the middle was quite a slog to get through. 3) The protagonist's relationship with her love interest fell flat for me - not very much depth and circumstances felt a little unbelieveable to me. Like, they're "in love" but also don't know each other at all until the very end? I'd skip this one.
October 13, 2022
Днес ще оставя своето с впечатление за книгата на Александра Джоел "Кралски кореспондент", която ни запознава с историята на Блейз Хил, нейния устрем за журналистическо бъдеще и неспирната борба за по-добър живот на сестра й Айви.
Сюжетът е заплетен, изпълнен с исторически достоверни факти и реални личности. Действието се развива между 1957 и 1962 година в Сидни, Австралия и Лондон, Великобритания. Има любов, има убийство, има любопитно факти за кралското семейство, мода, висше общество, шпионаж.
Сюжетът е заплетен, изпълнен с исторически достоверни факти и реални личности. Действието се развива между 1957 и 1962 година в Сидни, Австралия и Лондон, Великобритания. Има любов, има убийство, има любопитно факти за кралското семейство, мода, висше общество, шпионаж.
May 21, 2021
The enjoyable narration made this poorly written book quite enjoyable to listen to, not sure I would have finished it if it had been a physical book.
July 10, 2021
A little sheila from a tough neighborhood in the slums of Sydney, Australia pluckily makes it in the tough world of journalism of the 1950s. Subplots featuring a deep dark secret and her romance with a mystery man really increase the fluff factor and the end is predictable (especially if you are familiar with the political scandals of the day) and a little preposterous. The heroine wants to go beyond the Women's Page of the paper and report on hard news, if this was what she had written, she'd deserve to continue to report on ballgowns and garden parties.
August 2, 2021
This was a struggle to finish. So many good things in this but too many storylines too long and too many cliches. The premise and the setting were fine. The love triangle was excruciating. I appear to be in the minority with this one based on the reviews. This book makes me realise the difference a good editor could make.
April 8, 2022
Good story
September 16, 2021
3.5 stars
It was a bit melodramatic but I really enjoyed the 1960 London setting, with all the fashion & royalty.
It was a bit melodramatic but I really enjoyed the 1960 London setting, with all the fashion & royalty.
January 25, 2021
Following up her 2020 bestseller The Paris Model, fashion-historian-turned-novelist Alexandra Joel’s new offering, The Royal Correspondent will only add to her fast-growing reputation as a master storyteller who cleverly peppers her fiction with real characters and incidents from history, bringing eras of yesteryear vividly to life.
This is the story of sassy Sydney working-class girl, Blaise Hill, determined (in 1960) to make a successful journalism career for herself, despite the then blatant, ingrained societal limitations for woman. After a rough start at the bottom rung of the ladder, she finally scores a plum assignment, travelling to London to cover the wedding of the decade – that of Princess Margaret and the womanizing Tony Armstrong-Jones. Remaining on Fleet Street to report on royal events and the Crown’s social calendar opens a whole new world to Blaise who, nonetheless, dreams of tackling ‘real news’ and a front-page byline.
As she makes connections that may assist her in this improbable goal, a dark and dangerous secret from her past is threatened to be revealed and her romantic choices between two men with secrets of their own further complicate her ambitions and her very safety. At the same time, she begins to not just uncover but become embroiled in the story of Christine Keeler and the famous Profumo spy scandal which threatens (and ultimately did) lead to the fall of the Macmillan government.
The Royal Correspondent shines a light on the lot of a 1960’s journalist, particularly the frustrating challenges then faced by women. Along the way readers will, no doubt, remain captivated by Joel’s multi-strand plotline, sure to delight all lovers of historical fiction and gripping intrigue.
This is the story of sassy Sydney working-class girl, Blaise Hill, determined (in 1960) to make a successful journalism career for herself, despite the then blatant, ingrained societal limitations for woman. After a rough start at the bottom rung of the ladder, she finally scores a plum assignment, travelling to London to cover the wedding of the decade – that of Princess Margaret and the womanizing Tony Armstrong-Jones. Remaining on Fleet Street to report on royal events and the Crown’s social calendar opens a whole new world to Blaise who, nonetheless, dreams of tackling ‘real news’ and a front-page byline.
As she makes connections that may assist her in this improbable goal, a dark and dangerous secret from her past is threatened to be revealed and her romantic choices between two men with secrets of their own further complicate her ambitions and her very safety. At the same time, she begins to not just uncover but become embroiled in the story of Christine Keeler and the famous Profumo spy scandal which threatens (and ultimately did) lead to the fall of the Macmillan government.
The Royal Correspondent shines a light on the lot of a 1960’s journalist, particularly the frustrating challenges then faced by women. Along the way readers will, no doubt, remain captivated by Joel’s multi-strand plotline, sure to delight all lovers of historical fiction and gripping intrigue.
March 23, 2021
The Royal Correspondent is the second novel from Alexandra Joel. I loved Joel’s debut historical fiction book The Paris Model so, I was eagerly anticipating the follow up. Joel didn’t disappoint as she took me back to the swinging 60s, a time of upheaval and change in a patriarchal world. I was delighted to walk in the shoes of protagonist Blaise Hill as she tried to make her mark in Australia and England. I cheered Blaise on as she fought for a career, against sexism and sexual assault, discovered gaslighting and fashion, ultimately becoming an independent young woman.
Born in Sydney Australia, Blaise came from a hard life. Living in Enmore with her mother Maude and father Harry, Blaise has a particularly close relationship with her sister Ivy. Ivy suffered from polio, a condition I have not given much thought to. It was eye opening to learn how debilitating the disease was. Blaise dreamt of giving Ivy, and their parents, a better life. To achieve her dreams, Blaise joins The Clarion newspaper, starting at the bottom rung as a copy boy. This in itself was the first of many Blaise’s achievement and when she has the opportunity to become a royal correspondent in London, Blaise cannot say no.
With youth and optimism on her side, the London lifestyle fitted Blaise like a glove. Living with girlfriends introduced Blaise to a new world, involving men and relationships. Blaise finds herself in a love triangle with the quiet handsome Adam and the extroverted, Charlie. Her naivety worked against Blaise as one of these men was intent on making her a traditional housewife. It was a slow, insidious process that those who loved Blaise could see happening yet were helpless to do anything until the timing was right. It was interesting to note that gaslighting is not new phenomenon and the terminology originates from the 1940s movie, Gaslight.
While being a royal correspondent was not Blaise’s first choice, she used it as a stepping-stone to on the way to the top. I enjoyed reading about how the other half lived through the eyes of an ordinary person, a commoner. Reality comes crashing down when Blaise, like women before her, found herself relegated to the women’s pages. Blaise learns the importance of appearance and comes to appreciate fashion yet her thirst for hard stories wasn’t to be extinguished. I felt for Blaise when it became too hard for her and I admired her courage as she picked herself up time and time again, especially after sexual assault in the work place.
Will Blaise achieve all that she desires or is she fighting a losing battle?
Born in Sydney Australia, Blaise came from a hard life. Living in Enmore with her mother Maude and father Harry, Blaise has a particularly close relationship with her sister Ivy. Ivy suffered from polio, a condition I have not given much thought to. It was eye opening to learn how debilitating the disease was. Blaise dreamt of giving Ivy, and their parents, a better life. To achieve her dreams, Blaise joins The Clarion newspaper, starting at the bottom rung as a copy boy. This in itself was the first of many Blaise’s achievement and when she has the opportunity to become a royal correspondent in London, Blaise cannot say no.
With youth and optimism on her side, the London lifestyle fitted Blaise like a glove. Living with girlfriends introduced Blaise to a new world, involving men and relationships. Blaise finds herself in a love triangle with the quiet handsome Adam and the extroverted, Charlie. Her naivety worked against Blaise as one of these men was intent on making her a traditional housewife. It was a slow, insidious process that those who loved Blaise could see happening yet were helpless to do anything until the timing was right. It was interesting to note that gaslighting is not new phenomenon and the terminology originates from the 1940s movie, Gaslight.
While being a royal correspondent was not Blaise’s first choice, she used it as a stepping-stone to on the way to the top. I enjoyed reading about how the other half lived through the eyes of an ordinary person, a commoner. Reality comes crashing down when Blaise, like women before her, found herself relegated to the women’s pages. Blaise learns the importance of appearance and comes to appreciate fashion yet her thirst for hard stories wasn’t to be extinguished. I felt for Blaise when it became too hard for her and I admired her courage as she picked herself up time and time again, especially after sexual assault in the work place.
Will Blaise achieve all that she desires or is she fighting a losing battle?
August 9, 2021
I had a great time reading this historical fiction book! I truly loved Blaise story and the adventures she had. I listened to the audiobook and I really enjoyed that.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
Thank you Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
Go back to the swinging sixties for a historical fiction tale of intrigue, secrets, heartache, love and fashion.
Blaise Hill, a young feisty journalist in a male dominated business is tough and looking for the right story that will put her at the top of her career.
She is sent to London to report on Princess Margaret’s marriage and is drawn into the elite.
As Blaise reports on scandals and British society she gets involved with two very different men.
The past has a way with catching up with you and if she makes the wrong choice it will all come tumbling down.
A steady paced plot of mystery and glamour with an amazing thread of the rise of a young strong ambitious woman in the journalism world.
Starting off in the suburbs of Australia to flashy 60’s London this wonderful story set in the tough world of news and gossip is entertaining as well as informative.
Blaise didn’t always make the best decisions and that’s what made her more relatable and interesting and so much fun to read about.
Vivid descriptions, explosive drama and characters that will enlighten your reading journey and some that you will not trust at all make for a story that will stimulate the mind.
I love the way the author mixed real life personalities and scandals throughout the story, it gave the book a bit of celebrity and lots of charisma.
There’s also sneaky little references to characters from The Paris Model, the writers first book.
There’s not a dull moment in sight and Alexandra captures the era fabulously.
Escape to the melodrama of life at behind the scenes of a newspaper and one woman’s determination to consistently find the truth, no matter what and whatever the consequences.
A very talented storyteller.
Go back to the swinging sixties for a historical fiction tale of intrigue, secrets, heartache, love and fashion.
Blaise Hill, a young feisty journalist in a male dominated business is tough and looking for the right story that will put her at the top of her career.
She is sent to London to report on Princess Margaret’s marriage and is drawn into the elite.
As Blaise reports on scandals and British society she gets involved with two very different men.
The past has a way with catching up with you and if she makes the wrong choice it will all come tumbling down.
A steady paced plot of mystery and glamour with an amazing thread of the rise of a young strong ambitious woman in the journalism world.
Starting off in the suburbs of Australia to flashy 60’s London this wonderful story set in the tough world of news and gossip is entertaining as well as informative.
Blaise didn’t always make the best decisions and that’s what made her more relatable and interesting and so much fun to read about.
Vivid descriptions, explosive drama and characters that will enlighten your reading journey and some that you will not trust at all make for a story that will stimulate the mind.
I love the way the author mixed real life personalities and scandals throughout the story, it gave the book a bit of celebrity and lots of charisma.
There’s also sneaky little references to characters from The Paris Model, the writers first book.
There’s not a dull moment in sight and Alexandra captures the era fabulously.
Escape to the melodrama of life at behind the scenes of a newspaper and one woman’s determination to consistently find the truth, no matter what and whatever the consequences.
A very talented storyteller.
July 9, 2021
Wow! This book is incredible! It is engaging, gripping, intriguing, full of twists and turns, and so much more! Whenever I picked up "The Royal Correspondent", I was whisked back in time to early 1960's Australia and England, and went on quite a journey with this story.
Alexandra Joel is such an incredible author! Her writing style is visceral, vivid, and hooks the reader from the very first page. Her work is so well-researched, and I truly felt immersed in the world of this story. Her characters spring to life right off of the page, and, as the reader, I felt like I got to know each and every one. Furthermore, Ms. Joel's plot is engrossing. I do not want to spoil anything specifically in this review, but, I will say, there were quite a few moments that had me on the edge of my seat holding my breath. Not everyone in this book is who they seem or claim to be. Ms. Joel brilliantly places some foreshadowing throughout the book that makes you question what is really going on, and my mouth dropped a number of times with curveball moments as truths were revealed.
Blaise is such a brave, strong, intelligent, and kind young woman who loves her family deeply. She dreams of being a reporter who tells breaking news stories that will really impact those around her. However, many around her try to knock her down simply because she is a woman. In a world where male reporters cover the kinds of stories she wants to, Blaise does not take no for an answer, and continues to push forward. One night, she witnesses a friend of hers killing a man, helps her friend escape, and takes the knife to hide it. When a man named Adam (who is a family friend of Blaise's friend) offers to make the knife disappear, and promises not to tell anyone what happened, Blaise is drawn to the mysterious man for more than one reason. Later, Blaise is asked to go to England to be a royal reporter, and her life changes forever. She meets a man named Charlie, soon sees Adam again in England, and her life in the past soon starts to come back to her. As she continues to grow in the reporting world, she starts to receive anonymous letters from someone who seemingly knows what happened the night of the murder. Without knowing who she can turn to, will Blaise be able to find out what is really going on? With so much more going on than initially meets the eye, lies, and with darker and deeper secrets than can be imagined, will Blaise be able to survive? A brave fighter, she never gives up. You will just have to read to find out what happens.
From reading the synopsis given of the book, I thought it would involve more surrounding Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones, and the Royal Family in general. While they do play a very important part in the story, it isn't quite as focused on them as I originally believed they might. However, even with this said, the book is still amazing and I could not put it down.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages from late at night into the early hours of the morning to see what would happen next, and how and if everything would work out. I so look forward to reading what Alexandra Joel writes next!
Thank you so much to Harper Perennial and NetGalley for the ARC of this book, as well as to Harper Perennial for sending me a physical ARC as well, it is incredible. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Please Note: This book deals with some extremely heavy topics.
Alexandra Joel is such an incredible author! Her writing style is visceral, vivid, and hooks the reader from the very first page. Her work is so well-researched, and I truly felt immersed in the world of this story. Her characters spring to life right off of the page, and, as the reader, I felt like I got to know each and every one. Furthermore, Ms. Joel's plot is engrossing. I do not want to spoil anything specifically in this review, but, I will say, there were quite a few moments that had me on the edge of my seat holding my breath. Not everyone in this book is who they seem or claim to be. Ms. Joel brilliantly places some foreshadowing throughout the book that makes you question what is really going on, and my mouth dropped a number of times with curveball moments as truths were revealed.
Blaise is such a brave, strong, intelligent, and kind young woman who loves her family deeply. She dreams of being a reporter who tells breaking news stories that will really impact those around her. However, many around her try to knock her down simply because she is a woman. In a world where male reporters cover the kinds of stories she wants to, Blaise does not take no for an answer, and continues to push forward. One night, she witnesses a friend of hers killing a man, helps her friend escape, and takes the knife to hide it. When a man named Adam (who is a family friend of Blaise's friend) offers to make the knife disappear, and promises not to tell anyone what happened, Blaise is drawn to the mysterious man for more than one reason. Later, Blaise is asked to go to England to be a royal reporter, and her life changes forever. She meets a man named Charlie, soon sees Adam again in England, and her life in the past soon starts to come back to her. As she continues to grow in the reporting world, she starts to receive anonymous letters from someone who seemingly knows what happened the night of the murder. Without knowing who she can turn to, will Blaise be able to find out what is really going on? With so much more going on than initially meets the eye, lies, and with darker and deeper secrets than can be imagined, will Blaise be able to survive? A brave fighter, she never gives up. You will just have to read to find out what happens.
From reading the synopsis given of the book, I thought it would involve more surrounding Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones, and the Royal Family in general. While they do play a very important part in the story, it isn't quite as focused on them as I originally believed they might. However, even with this said, the book is still amazing and I could not put it down.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages from late at night into the early hours of the morning to see what would happen next, and how and if everything would work out. I so look forward to reading what Alexandra Joel writes next!
Thank you so much to Harper Perennial and NetGalley for the ARC of this book, as well as to Harper Perennial for sending me a physical ARC as well, it is incredible. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Please Note: This book deals with some extremely heavy topics.
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