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Reckoner's Row #3
The Mersey Mothers
Liverpool 1953
January sees the dawn of the Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation year as the mothers of Reckoners Row unite in preparation for the celebration of the new Queen.
Meanwhile Evie Kilgaren is dreaming of her summer wedding to Danny Harris, but trouble looms for Skinner & Sons with a new rival trying to put them out of business, but no-one knows why....
Ada Harris is summoned to the bedside of her estranged husband, who, in his dying moment confesses to a deadly secret - he knows who really murdered Evie’s mam Rene all those years ago and the consequences are far reaching.
Has an innocent man been jailed and is there still a murderer walking carefree?
Will Evie get the happy-ever-after she so longs for with Danny? And will The Mersey Mothers unite and still be friends?
Praise for Sheila Riley's Reckoner's Row
'A thoroughly enjoyable, powerful novel' Lyn Andrews
'An enchanting, warm and deeply touching story' Cathy Sharp
January sees the dawn of the Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation year as the mothers of Reckoners Row unite in preparation for the celebration of the new Queen.
Meanwhile Evie Kilgaren is dreaming of her summer wedding to Danny Harris, but trouble looms for Skinner & Sons with a new rival trying to put them out of business, but no-one knows why....
Ada Harris is summoned to the bedside of her estranged husband, who, in his dying moment confesses to a deadly secret - he knows who really murdered Evie’s mam Rene all those years ago and the consequences are far reaching.
Has an innocent man been jailed and is there still a murderer walking carefree?
Will Evie get the happy-ever-after she so longs for with Danny? And will The Mersey Mothers unite and still be friends?
Praise for Sheila Riley's Reckoner's Row
'A thoroughly enjoyable, powerful novel' Lyn Andrews
'An enchanting, warm and deeply touching story' Cathy Sharp
272 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2022
161 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Sheila Riley
28 books37 followersBorn and raised on Merseyside, Sheila Riley is the eldest of seven children. Her parents John and Peggy took the scenic route through the many family anecdotes they shared and encouraged their daughter to do the same. At school Sheila quickly discovered her English exam grades could be improved by writing tales in the back of her exercise book, and so began her lifelong love of story-telling. Happily married to Tony, they have three grown-up children, five adorable grandchildren and a huge German Shepherd who is put in his place by a small, ancient cat called Missy.
Child of the Mersey is the first book in a new series that will feature the residents of Empire Street in Liverpool during the Second World War.
Child of the Mersey is the first book in a new series that will feature the residents of Empire Street in Liverpool during the Second World War.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 15, 2022
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
I am so thrilled to be revisiting Reckoner's Row once again in this third installment of this delightful series. THE MERSEY MOTHERS picks up three years after the previous "The Mersey Girls" left off. And while each book can be read as a standalone, all three tie in together with the ongoing backstory that unfolds throughout them all.
In THE MERSEY MOTHERS, not only do we revisit the residents of Reckoner's Row, but the original story in which Evie Kilgaren's mother Rene had disappeared during the coldest winter of 1947, her body later uncovered when the canal thawed. In the first book "The Mersey Orphan" (originally titled "The Orphan's Daughter"), after Rene's body was discovered, Evie's father Frank had been arrested for her murder and later imprisoned in a Mental Asylum for the Criminally Insane.
The story begins with a Prologue detailing the lead-up and thus Rene Kilgaren's demise from a rather different perspective before moving forward to 1953 where the story picks up with the excitement of the upcoming coronation of the new Queen. Life in Reckoner's Row has moved on although it was deeply affected by WW2 with rationing and shortages still rife some eight years later.
After buying the haulage yard from his step-father, Danny Harris (Skinner) is now struggling to keep the yard running with the opening of a new more competitive rival on the dock road, Lenard's Haulage. Evie Kilgaren works hard at keeping the books but with the business beginning to fail, she secretly advertises for more account keeping work to keep their head above water. Evie doesn't know how Lenard's knows who their customers are or how they are undercutting them but if they continue, Skinner's & Son will not survive.
The woman Danny had known as his mother growing up, Ada Harris, takes centre stage in much of this story as word reaches her that her good-for-nothing husband she kicked out three years ago after it was discovered he had been blackmailing Danny's step-father, Henry Skinner, is nearing death's door. Ada doesn't believe it for one minute and takes her time in knocking on his boarding house's door. But the Bert Harris she knew was a shadow of the man he used to be; shrivelled up skin and bone laying on his bug-ridden bed. He directed Ada to a cupboard and a box that was hidden there but expired before he could confess much more. All he had told her was that he knew who really killed Rene Kilgaren. Ada was scared that the box would contain proof that Bert had done the deed so therefore was too frightened to open it herself and hid it away upon arriving home.
Meanwhile, there is plenty going on in the Row with the upcoming coronation as the community prepares while trying to get by as they do best. Evie and her 16 year old sister are worried for their brother Jack who was in Korea under the National Service and had been for two years, though it had been some time since they had heard from him. Lucy was no an apprentice at Madame Barbery's Coiffure and was taking part in the Apprentice of the Year Awards at the exclusive Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool.
While in the shadows, nefarious activities continue to play out behind the scenes with the blackmarket and a murder case to solve. And as always, there are some dubious characters which will make your skin crawl as you hope they get their comeuppance. Susie Blackthorn, a regular thorn (pun intended) in both Danny and Evie's side, is back with a vengeance. But will she finally win out?
There are several stories interwoven throughout this wonderful family saga and it seems almost fitting that everything appears to come full circle by the end. It would certainly make an appropriate end to the series but I would love to see more of the Reckoner's Row residents whom I have grown fond of. I love this style of fiction as it mixes historical with a bit of mystery, that probably isn't all that mysterious in fact, but makes for entertaining and compelling reading. THE MERSEY MOTHERS is indeed an addictive read I couldn't put down and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
While it can be read as a standalone, as there is enough backstory supplied so that the reader doesn't miss out, THE MERSEY MOTHERS is fully appreciated best in conjunction with the first two books in the series. I love Sheila Riley's style and I loved that she dropped a mention of Ruby's Emporium (from her other Docklands series) a couple of times into the story.
Another wonderfully addictive historical fiction saga, THE MERSEY MOTHERS is perfect for fans of feel-good family sagas such as Rosie Clarke and Nadine Dorries.
I would like to thank #SheilaRiley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheMerseyMothers in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am so thrilled to be revisiting Reckoner's Row once again in this third installment of this delightful series. THE MERSEY MOTHERS picks up three years after the previous "The Mersey Girls" left off. And while each book can be read as a standalone, all three tie in together with the ongoing backstory that unfolds throughout them all.
In THE MERSEY MOTHERS, not only do we revisit the residents of Reckoner's Row, but the original story in which Evie Kilgaren's mother Rene had disappeared during the coldest winter of 1947, her body later uncovered when the canal thawed. In the first book "The Mersey Orphan" (originally titled "The Orphan's Daughter"), after Rene's body was discovered, Evie's father Frank had been arrested for her murder and later imprisoned in a Mental Asylum for the Criminally Insane.
The story begins with a Prologue detailing the lead-up and thus Rene Kilgaren's demise from a rather different perspective before moving forward to 1953 where the story picks up with the excitement of the upcoming coronation of the new Queen. Life in Reckoner's Row has moved on although it was deeply affected by WW2 with rationing and shortages still rife some eight years later.
After buying the haulage yard from his step-father, Danny Harris (Skinner) is now struggling to keep the yard running with the opening of a new more competitive rival on the dock road, Lenard's Haulage. Evie Kilgaren works hard at keeping the books but with the business beginning to fail, she secretly advertises for more account keeping work to keep their head above water. Evie doesn't know how Lenard's knows who their customers are or how they are undercutting them but if they continue, Skinner's & Son will not survive.
The woman Danny had known as his mother growing up, Ada Harris, takes centre stage in much of this story as word reaches her that her good-for-nothing husband she kicked out three years ago after it was discovered he had been blackmailing Danny's step-father, Henry Skinner, is nearing death's door. Ada doesn't believe it for one minute and takes her time in knocking on his boarding house's door. But the Bert Harris she knew was a shadow of the man he used to be; shrivelled up skin and bone laying on his bug-ridden bed. He directed Ada to a cupboard and a box that was hidden there but expired before he could confess much more. All he had told her was that he knew who really killed Rene Kilgaren. Ada was scared that the box would contain proof that Bert had done the deed so therefore was too frightened to open it herself and hid it away upon arriving home.
Meanwhile, there is plenty going on in the Row with the upcoming coronation as the community prepares while trying to get by as they do best. Evie and her 16 year old sister are worried for their brother Jack who was in Korea under the National Service and had been for two years, though it had been some time since they had heard from him. Lucy was no an apprentice at Madame Barbery's Coiffure and was taking part in the Apprentice of the Year Awards at the exclusive Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool.
While in the shadows, nefarious activities continue to play out behind the scenes with the blackmarket and a murder case to solve. And as always, there are some dubious characters which will make your skin crawl as you hope they get their comeuppance. Susie Blackthorn, a regular thorn (pun intended) in both Danny and Evie's side, is back with a vengeance. But will she finally win out?
There are several stories interwoven throughout this wonderful family saga and it seems almost fitting that everything appears to come full circle by the end. It would certainly make an appropriate end to the series but I would love to see more of the Reckoner's Row residents whom I have grown fond of. I love this style of fiction as it mixes historical with a bit of mystery, that probably isn't all that mysterious in fact, but makes for entertaining and compelling reading. THE MERSEY MOTHERS is indeed an addictive read I couldn't put down and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
While it can be read as a standalone, as there is enough backstory supplied so that the reader doesn't miss out, THE MERSEY MOTHERS is fully appreciated best in conjunction with the first two books in the series. I love Sheila Riley's style and I loved that she dropped a mention of Ruby's Emporium (from her other Docklands series) a couple of times into the story.
Another wonderfully addictive historical fiction saga, THE MERSEY MOTHERS is perfect for fans of feel-good family sagas such as Rosie Clarke and Nadine Dorries.
I would like to thank #SheilaRiley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheMerseyMothers in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
March 22, 2022
The Mersey Mothers by Sheila Riley is a compelling historical novel set in 1953. It is part of the Reckoners Row series but can be read as a stand-alone.
The novel has a powerful opening that grabbed my attention immediately and kept me questioning and returning, in my mind, to the start throughout. It is set in 1947 before jumping to 1953 but I wanted to know the truth about what had really happened and who had done what?
Reckoners Row is a place of community. We see life happen on a microcosm with love and care juxtaposed against deep-seated rivalries. We witness the effects when a jealousy gets out of hand.
Family is important. Family is not always blood ties but those who love us.
Education is the key to lifting lives out of poverty. We see this as we follow a sixteen year old with her hairdressing apprenticeship.
There is a cold case murder to solve. Is a life innocent? Or guilty? Some folks know more than they are letting on.
1953 sees the characters, along with the reader, eagerly anticipating Elizabeth II’s coronation. Interestingly a character receives a television to watch the event, just as my Dad and his family got their first television to watch it too. I felt a connection with the character.
All the characters are well drawn, likable and realistic. I ’felt’ a part of their community as I ‘shared’ in their lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Mersey Mothers and cannot wait to read more by Sheila Riley.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources and Boldwood via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The novel has a powerful opening that grabbed my attention immediately and kept me questioning and returning, in my mind, to the start throughout. It is set in 1947 before jumping to 1953 but I wanted to know the truth about what had really happened and who had done what?
Reckoners Row is a place of community. We see life happen on a microcosm with love and care juxtaposed against deep-seated rivalries. We witness the effects when a jealousy gets out of hand.
Family is important. Family is not always blood ties but those who love us.
Education is the key to lifting lives out of poverty. We see this as we follow a sixteen year old with her hairdressing apprenticeship.
There is a cold case murder to solve. Is a life innocent? Or guilty? Some folks know more than they are letting on.
1953 sees the characters, along with the reader, eagerly anticipating Elizabeth II’s coronation. Interestingly a character receives a television to watch the event, just as my Dad and his family got their first television to watch it too. I felt a connection with the character.
All the characters are well drawn, likable and realistic. I ’felt’ a part of their community as I ‘shared’ in their lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Mersey Mothers and cannot wait to read more by Sheila Riley.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources and Boldwood via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2022
I have been a fan of Sheila’s work for a little while now. I especially love the series set on ‘Reckoner’s Row’. ‘The Mersey Mothers’ is the third book in the series. I loved the first two books in the series and I have been (im)patiently waiting for the third book to be released. Well the wait is over as ‘The Mersey Motherrs’ was released on 19th April 2022. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Mersey Mothers’ but more about that in a bit.
As soon as I started reading, I knew that I was on to a good thing and that I would find it rather difficult to put this book to one side for any length of time. I was right on both counts. I felt as though I had been reunited with old friends in the form of the different characters. I had initially picked the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I became so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of different characters that I would still be sat there several chapters and an hour or two later. I became addicted to this story and it was constantly on my mind. If I wasn’t reading the book then I was thinking about it. If I had to put the book down for any reason then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered down another path entirely. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘The Mersey Mothers’ and I had to say goodbye to the residents of ‘Reckoner’s Row’. I found ‘The Mersey Mothers’ to be a gripping and emotional story, which certainly kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘The Mersey Mothers’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Sheila Riley. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly steady pace throughout. Sheila clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. Sheila’s characters seem just as real as you and I. This story certainly took me on something of an emotional journey and I went through every emotion that the various characters went through.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Mersey Mothers’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Sheila’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
As soon as I started reading, I knew that I was on to a good thing and that I would find it rather difficult to put this book to one side for any length of time. I was right on both counts. I felt as though I had been reunited with old friends in the form of the different characters. I had initially picked the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I became so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of different characters that I would still be sat there several chapters and an hour or two later. I became addicted to this story and it was constantly on my mind. If I wasn’t reading the book then I was thinking about it. If I had to put the book down for any reason then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered down another path entirely. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘The Mersey Mothers’ and I had to say goodbye to the residents of ‘Reckoner’s Row’. I found ‘The Mersey Mothers’ to be a gripping and emotional story, which certainly kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘The Mersey Mothers’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Sheila Riley. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly steady pace throughout. Sheila clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. Sheila’s characters seem just as real as you and I. This story certainly took me on something of an emotional journey and I went through every emotion that the various characters went through.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Mersey Mothers’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Sheila’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
April 6, 2022
I have read several books by this author and enjoyed all I have read. The Mersey Mothers is the 3rd book in the Reckoner's Row series. I have not read the two earlier ones and while I do wish I had, because the author is fab, this one did read well as a stand-alone novel.
This book opens with a prologue and then jumps forward a few years. Set in Liverpool in 1953 the residents of Reckoner's Row are hard-working, supportive of their families and also of their community. When one of their own does something to upset the harmony then it is made known, as Ada Harris is all too aware. There is a story about her ex-husband Bert that gradually emerges and how things have changed for the main characters. This may have been present in the previous books but the author includes details so that I didn't feel as if I was missing anything.
The area is near the docklands and is handy for haulage businesses, and this is what Danny and his fiance Evie are desperately trying to keep going. There is however a rival business that is threatening their livelihood.
In the 50s there are several historical references to keep the reader set in the day. The coronation of Queen Elizabeth, the Korean War and also rationing started to be more relaxed after the end of WWII. The country is starting to move forward, things are improving but life is still hard. This is where the communities, friendships and families are really important. This is one of the things the author really does manage to get across well in her books and The Mersey Mothers have all that sense of spirit and supportiveness.
There are several stories that are brilliantly intertwined in this family saga style story. It is these stories that make this a fabulous book to read. Families and friendships may be tested but there is a sense that the community will always keep an eye out for their own. Things are not always rosy and there are still those who are trying to get one over the rest.
This is another wonderfully addictive historical fiction story from this author. Ideal for those who love reading family sagas and while it can be read easily as a stand-alone novel you do get to see developments and changes over the course of reading a series in order. I adored this one and I would definitely recommend it.
This book opens with a prologue and then jumps forward a few years. Set in Liverpool in 1953 the residents of Reckoner's Row are hard-working, supportive of their families and also of their community. When one of their own does something to upset the harmony then it is made known, as Ada Harris is all too aware. There is a story about her ex-husband Bert that gradually emerges and how things have changed for the main characters. This may have been present in the previous books but the author includes details so that I didn't feel as if I was missing anything.
The area is near the docklands and is handy for haulage businesses, and this is what Danny and his fiance Evie are desperately trying to keep going. There is however a rival business that is threatening their livelihood.
In the 50s there are several historical references to keep the reader set in the day. The coronation of Queen Elizabeth, the Korean War and also rationing started to be more relaxed after the end of WWII. The country is starting to move forward, things are improving but life is still hard. This is where the communities, friendships and families are really important. This is one of the things the author really does manage to get across well in her books and The Mersey Mothers have all that sense of spirit and supportiveness.
There are several stories that are brilliantly intertwined in this family saga style story. It is these stories that make this a fabulous book to read. Families and friendships may be tested but there is a sense that the community will always keep an eye out for their own. Things are not always rosy and there are still those who are trying to get one over the rest.
This is another wonderfully addictive historical fiction story from this author. Ideal for those who love reading family sagas and while it can be read easily as a stand-alone novel you do get to see developments and changes over the course of reading a series in order. I adored this one and I would definitely recommend it.
May 28, 2022
Sheila Riley continues her gritty and gripping Liverpool set series Reckoner’s Row with another emotional and captivating installment: The Mersey Mothers.
It’s 1953 and there is great excitement in the air as it is Queen Elizabeth’s II Coronation year. The mothers of Reckoners Row have all come together and are planning a celebration to commemorate this wonderful occasion. However, it’s not all street parties and bunting in Reckoners Row as earth-shattering secrets and shocking revelations come to light and threaten to cast a shadow over the upcoming celebrations.
Evie Kilgaren has got a lot to look forward to. She is counting down the days until her summer wedding to Danny Harris. But there is trouble brewing as Skinner & Sons has got a new rival willing to do whatever it takes to put them out of business. Evie is willing to move mountains to save the company. But will her efforts be in vain? Or will there be light at the end of the dark tunnel she seems to have fallen into?
When Ada Harris is summoned to the bed of her estranged husband, she doesn’t know what to expect. However, even she wasn’t prepared for the bombshell which sprang forth from his lips; a shocking confession that well and truly pulls the rug out from under her feet: he knows who really killed Ada’s mother. Has an innocent man been falsely imprisoned? And is a dangerous killer still walking the streets with his eyes set on Ada?
The coming months will not be without its challenges for the Mersey Mothers of Reckoners Row, but if they stick together, there is absolutely nothing these strong, generous and courageous women cannot conquer.
Sheila Riley is such a wonderful storyteller who really knows how to draw her readers into her stories and create worlds full of colourful characters it is impossible not to care about. The Mersey Mothers is a heartfelt, emotional and compelling saga about women’s strength during tough times, the power of friendship and the ties that bind set in a close-knit Liverpool community.
A superb Liverpool saga that tugs at the heartstrings, The Mersey Mothers is the latest immersive and engaging tale by Sheila Riley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s 1953 and there is great excitement in the air as it is Queen Elizabeth’s II Coronation year. The mothers of Reckoners Row have all come together and are planning a celebration to commemorate this wonderful occasion. However, it’s not all street parties and bunting in Reckoners Row as earth-shattering secrets and shocking revelations come to light and threaten to cast a shadow over the upcoming celebrations.
Evie Kilgaren has got a lot to look forward to. She is counting down the days until her summer wedding to Danny Harris. But there is trouble brewing as Skinner & Sons has got a new rival willing to do whatever it takes to put them out of business. Evie is willing to move mountains to save the company. But will her efforts be in vain? Or will there be light at the end of the dark tunnel she seems to have fallen into?
When Ada Harris is summoned to the bed of her estranged husband, she doesn’t know what to expect. However, even she wasn’t prepared for the bombshell which sprang forth from his lips; a shocking confession that well and truly pulls the rug out from under her feet: he knows who really killed Ada’s mother. Has an innocent man been falsely imprisoned? And is a dangerous killer still walking the streets with his eyes set on Ada?
The coming months will not be without its challenges for the Mersey Mothers of Reckoners Row, but if they stick together, there is absolutely nothing these strong, generous and courageous women cannot conquer.
Sheila Riley is such a wonderful storyteller who really knows how to draw her readers into her stories and create worlds full of colourful characters it is impossible not to care about. The Mersey Mothers is a heartfelt, emotional and compelling saga about women’s strength during tough times, the power of friendship and the ties that bind set in a close-knit Liverpool community.
A superb Liverpool saga that tugs at the heartstrings, The Mersey Mothers is the latest immersive and engaging tale by Sheila Riley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 16, 2022
The Mersey Mothers by Sheila Reilly is another chapter in the Mersey saga. Things are going well, for the most part. Danny and Evie's wedding is coming up soon, although the hauling yard is not doing well. There is new competition that seems to want to put them out of business and is not only undercutting their prices, but is up to mischief as well. Evie is the bookkeeper and is not telling Danny how bad things really are. Instead she is keeping books for others businesses, and not mentioning to him. Their father has escaped from the hospital for the criminally insane where he has been since he killed their mother. Lucy is making a name for herself as a hair stylist. Ada has finally gotten ride of Bert, leech that he was and the pub is doing nicely with Angus as the publican. Life is pretty good for all of them.
Of course, when life is goo that simply means something will go wrong. Evie's and Lucy's brother comes home from his National Service in Korea so that goes in the plus column. Other good things happen, too, but bad things come along as well. It is a tumultuous time for all of them. It is part of life, though, when one looks at it over the years. Grace and her rich husband make life better . . .what good people they are. It is a good life, overall, and this is just a chapter. It is fun to read these long-term stories. We're well out of World War II now, and the new queen, Elizabeth, is being crowned. What better thing to set the tone?
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Mersey Mothers by Boldwood, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #boldwood #sheilareilly #themerseymothers
Of course, when life is goo that simply means something will go wrong. Evie's and Lucy's brother comes home from his National Service in Korea so that goes in the plus column. Other good things happen, too, but bad things come along as well. It is a tumultuous time for all of them. It is part of life, though, when one looks at it over the years. Grace and her rich husband make life better . . .what good people they are. It is a good life, overall, and this is just a chapter. It is fun to read these long-term stories. We're well out of World War II now, and the new queen, Elizabeth, is being crowned. What better thing to set the tone?
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Mersey Mothers by Boldwood, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #boldwood #sheilareilly #themerseymothers
April 24, 2022
The Mersey Mothers is the third installment in the Reckoner's Row series, featuring Evie Kilgaren, her sister Lucy and her fiance Danny Harris. Set against the end of WWII, the story tells of the girl's father being incarcerated for the murder of their mother.
Evie is dreaming of her perfect wedding while Danny is struggling to keep his business, Skinner & Sons, a haulage company, afloat. Why is a rival company trying to put him out of business, a fire brings everything to a head.
Ada Harris, the woman who raised Danny, not his biological mother, goes to her dying husband's, bedside to learn a secret that could ruin everything for her, Evie, and Lucy.
With the Queen's coronation and the wedding looming in the future, the friendship between Ada and Danny's real mother is in peril.
Was an innocent man incarcerated for a crime he did not commit? If you read the previous two books in the series, this one brings back all of the characters, their stories, loves, and ambitions to the forefront. A family sage written with knowledge of the Merseyside in 1953. Will the wedding go as planned?
I loved the story, no computers, no cellphones just ordinary people, each with a story to tell in a time where there is still rationing, from the war, eight years later. I was born in the same year and I totally loved the story, the excitement of Ada getting her first tv. I remember those days.
If you want a book or series to get lost in, Reckoner's Row series is a must-read!
I received a copy for review purposes only.
Evie is dreaming of her perfect wedding while Danny is struggling to keep his business, Skinner & Sons, a haulage company, afloat. Why is a rival company trying to put him out of business, a fire brings everything to a head.
Ada Harris, the woman who raised Danny, not his biological mother, goes to her dying husband's, bedside to learn a secret that could ruin everything for her, Evie, and Lucy.
With the Queen's coronation and the wedding looming in the future, the friendship between Ada and Danny's real mother is in peril.
Was an innocent man incarcerated for a crime he did not commit? If you read the previous two books in the series, this one brings back all of the characters, their stories, loves, and ambitions to the forefront. A family sage written with knowledge of the Merseyside in 1953. Will the wedding go as planned?
I loved the story, no computers, no cellphones just ordinary people, each with a story to tell in a time where there is still rationing, from the war, eight years later. I was born in the same year and I totally loved the story, the excitement of Ada getting her first tv. I remember those days.
If you want a book or series to get lost in, Reckoner's Row series is a must-read!
I received a copy for review purposes only.
April 25, 2022
This is my second book by Sheila Riley but the first in the Reckoner’s Row Saga. The Mersey Mothers is book 3 of this historical saga, however I don’t feel that I missed to much but having said that I do now want to read to other two. So in all honesty, I think it’s better to read all three.
This is a beautiful story, full of passion, strong morals and unbreakable friendships, no matter what has happened. Everyone living in and around Reckoner’s Row has a huge sense of community and they stick together through thick and thin. Ada is a brilliant character. she won’t let anything get her down even though she has a tough life. I really loved her forthright nature. In fact a lot of the women are forthright and it’s great to read. She actually reminded me of my Grandma. She wore the same wrap around pinny, lived in a very similar community and I couldn’t help but smile.
Evie and Lucy are wonderfully written women. Evie, looking after her younger sister since their Mother’s demise. They have a superb relationship and I utterly adored them both.
The Mersey Mothers is written so well, the plot is great and it evokes strong strong emotions that you find yourself having a chuckle one minute, feeling really angry the next then full on tears. A totally compelling read that absolutely lives up to being a saga.
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This is a beautiful story, full of passion, strong morals and unbreakable friendships, no matter what has happened. Everyone living in and around Reckoner’s Row has a huge sense of community and they stick together through thick and thin. Ada is a brilliant character. she won’t let anything get her down even though she has a tough life. I really loved her forthright nature. In fact a lot of the women are forthright and it’s great to read. She actually reminded me of my Grandma. She wore the same wrap around pinny, lived in a very similar community and I couldn’t help but smile.
Evie and Lucy are wonderfully written women. Evie, looking after her younger sister since their Mother’s demise. They have a superb relationship and I utterly adored them both.
The Mersey Mothers is written so well, the plot is great and it evokes strong strong emotions that you find yourself having a chuckle one minute, feeling really angry the next then full on tears. A totally compelling read that absolutely lives up to being a saga.
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June 5, 2022
This is the third installment of Reckoner's row and it feels like I've never been away. The characters are all familiar after reading the first two books and it feels like I'm back on the street.
I was thinking some questions would be answered and truths come out and I was pleasantly pleased they did.
Arrangements are being made for Evie and Danny's wedding and also the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 2nd. The row comes together pooling their hard-earned resources to make both events a success.
Evie is dreaming of a white wedding with a beautiful princess gown and all accessories, but in reality that looks
impossible. Poor Danny's haulage firm is struggling financially and going downhill fast. Jealous Susie puts a spanner in the works, she's always wanted Danny for herself and can't stand the thought of him marrying Evie.
I really enjoyed this saga of hardship, close-knit families, and drama.
It was one that I found myself keep going back for more.
Sheila Riley has really captured the essence of life around the time set in this book and her clever writing carries the reader along on a rollercoaster of emotions.
Kim Mooney 😊
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
I was thinking some questions would be answered and truths come out and I was pleasantly pleased they did.
Arrangements are being made for Evie and Danny's wedding and also the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 2nd. The row comes together pooling their hard-earned resources to make both events a success.
Evie is dreaming of a white wedding with a beautiful princess gown and all accessories, but in reality that looks
impossible. Poor Danny's haulage firm is struggling financially and going downhill fast. Jealous Susie puts a spanner in the works, she's always wanted Danny for herself and can't stand the thought of him marrying Evie.
I really enjoyed this saga of hardship, close-knit families, and drama.
It was one that I found myself keep going back for more.
Sheila Riley has really captured the essence of life around the time set in this book and her clever writing carries the reader along on a rollercoaster of emotions.
Kim Mooney 😊
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
March 11, 2022
We are back by the Mersey this time after the war. Many items are still rationed and the occupants of Reckoners Row pull together to get through tough times. They have their differences and spats but when push comes to shove they all pull together. Ada’s estranged husband Bert tells her shortly before he dies that he knows a secret and where he has hidden the evidence. Ada is suspicious of him as he has always been one to look out for no one but himself- is he telling the truth and what effect might this have on others?
This is book three in the series and although stands alone the characters would make more sense if the others in the series have also been read. A look back at times gone by and how through tough times and having very little many got through by sheer guts and determination- “She squeezed a penny so hard she thought it might scream”. A book of strong characters mostly with hearts of gold and caring when no one else would give a damn with a mystery and drama nicely enveloped. A heartwarming read.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
August 24, 2025
The Mersey mothers by Sheila Riley. (Part three of Reckoners Row) (Audiobook read on hoopla app)
This book is written with soon to be cornation of Queen Elizabeth as the backdrop. Evie and her soon to be husband Danny are still working together to make Skinner and sons a success. However a rival Company has started up and they mysteriously seem to be picking up their clients. Could a newly fired and vengeful ex employee have a hand in it?
Meanwhile Ada Harris is called to the deathbed of her estranged husband. He makes a confession and gives her a box that proves who really killed Evie’s mother. Meanwhile, Evies father who escaped from the mental institution works to keep away from the authorities while searching for the evidence to prove his innocence once and for all.
Plenty of drama but as evidence of a strong Community is given. I almost didnt continue this book Series after the first book but Im glad i did. The story Got more interesting in book two and three.
This book is written with soon to be cornation of Queen Elizabeth as the backdrop. Evie and her soon to be husband Danny are still working together to make Skinner and sons a success. However a rival Company has started up and they mysteriously seem to be picking up their clients. Could a newly fired and vengeful ex employee have a hand in it?
Meanwhile Ada Harris is called to the deathbed of her estranged husband. He makes a confession and gives her a box that proves who really killed Evie’s mother. Meanwhile, Evies father who escaped from the mental institution works to keep away from the authorities while searching for the evidence to prove his innocence once and for all.
Plenty of drama but as evidence of a strong Community is given. I almost didnt continue this book Series after the first book but Im glad i did. The story Got more interesting in book two and three.
April 12, 2022
This is a great series which captures the spirit of the time, through the period detail, especially when you read about the characters' daily lives. 1953 was a landmark year for the United Kingdom, as it was the year HM Queen Elizabeth was crowned and I enjoyed its inclusion in the story, as it affected life in Reckoner's Row. Life in Liverpool is still affected by the Second World War as rationing and shortages are still affecting daily life.
At the beginning, you are shocked by an incident which happened in 1947, six years before most of the story is set. It is a powerful opening chapter which has repercussions throughout the story. The characters live in a close- knit community with a keen sense of place. There are several mysteries to unravel but ultimately it is a satisfying story, with well- drawn characters and a credible, range of emotion.
In short: Well written historical fiction with a great sense of place
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
At the beginning, you are shocked by an incident which happened in 1947, six years before most of the story is set. It is a powerful opening chapter which has repercussions throughout the story. The characters live in a close- knit community with a keen sense of place. There are several mysteries to unravel but ultimately it is a satisfying story, with well- drawn characters and a credible, range of emotion.
In short: Well written historical fiction with a great sense of place
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
March 12, 2022
The Mersey Mothers a heartbreaker that I just could not put down.
Reckoners Row book three in the series.
Liverpool 1953 we join Evie Kilgaren and Danny Harris building up the haulage business and work is slow with competition from Lenard haulage.
living in Reckoners Row with her sister Lucy and her brother Jack away doing national service, a breakout at the asylum Frank Kilgaren her father is on the loose, pleading his not guilty over their mothers murder, the truth has to be found as I carried on reading.
A touching story from all the characters like you are in the story with them all. I love this authors work on this series, she brings so much joy and pleasure to her readers.
Reckoners Row book three in the series.
Liverpool 1953 we join Evie Kilgaren and Danny Harris building up the haulage business and work is slow with competition from Lenard haulage.
living in Reckoners Row with her sister Lucy and her brother Jack away doing national service, a breakout at the asylum Frank Kilgaren her father is on the loose, pleading his not guilty over their mothers murder, the truth has to be found as I carried on reading.
A touching story from all the characters like you are in the story with them all. I love this authors work on this series, she brings so much joy and pleasure to her readers.
April 11, 2022
This is the third book in the Reckoners Row series. Times are hard for Danny as he struggles to keep up with a new haulage firm which keeps undercutting him and taking his jobs. He try’s to keep his worry’s away from his beloved Evie who’s doing the same to him. As if that’s not enough to worry about Evie’s Dad escapes from the asylum where he’s been locked up for the murder of her Mum. There’s lots going on in this book and it will keep you gripped from page one. I highly recommend this series.
April 21, 2022
The third in the series, although easily read as a standalone. I love my historical fiction, so found it a highly, enjoyable read.
I enjoyed getting to know all of the mothers and the other characters of Reckoners Row.
Close knit families, community spirit and friendship are what make these family sagas so lovely to read. They never let anything dampen their spirits and just got on with life.
Heartwarming, lovely and an author whose other works I will definitely be checking out.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed getting to know all of the mothers and the other characters of Reckoners Row.
Close knit families, community spirit and friendship are what make these family sagas so lovely to read. They never let anything dampen their spirits and just got on with life.
Heartwarming, lovely and an author whose other works I will definitely be checking out.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 23, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved reading about life in early 1950's Liverpool. Telling us about a typical street preparing for the coronation and a wedding whilst trying to keep businesses alive was an eye opener. The characters are very believeable and I was captivated so much, I read it in a day. A lovely read.
May 19, 2022
A wonderful book I could not put down.
Having read the other two books in this series , I could not wait to read it. It was not a disappoint .I enjoyed every page. Every character have their own personalities . The book depicts the post war life, the hardship of living with rationing, poverty but above all the community coming together to help one another.
Having read the other two books in this series , I could not wait to read it. It was not a disappoint .I enjoyed every page. Every character have their own personalities . The book depicts the post war life, the hardship of living with rationing, poverty but above all the community coming together to help one another.
Read
October 16, 2022I am loving these WW11 saga's I find I can't put them down. I am a child born 2 years after WW11 ended as our parents never spoke much about it so now reading it, I know writers have to dramatise stories for the sake of interest, but history has shown a lot of it was true as history is now being repeated around the world it should never be forgotten what humans are capable of for good and bad
April 21, 2022
Brilliant
Familiar characters, well drawn and rounded out in this third Reckoner's Row book _ I couldn't put it down. Evoked so many memories of the area in which it's set. Well done Sheila Riley, I loved it.
Familiar characters, well drawn and rounded out in this third Reckoner's Row book _ I couldn't put it down. Evoked so many memories of the area in which it's set. Well done Sheila Riley, I loved it.
April 24, 2022
Enjoyable saga
I have flown through reading this saga and found it very enjoyable . The story behind each character was gripping and I had found myself in the moment with them a few times.
Look forward to the next book
I have flown through reading this saga and found it very enjoyable . The story behind each character was gripping and I had found myself in the moment with them a few times.
Look forward to the next book
July 27, 2023
Mothers.
Sheila Riley's story had me reading it all at once! I couldn't put it down.
Her description of the characters was so vivid in my mind and imagining the area of the docks and canal was so real.
Sheila Riley's story had me reading it all at once! I couldn't put it down.
Her description of the characters was so vivid in my mind and imagining the area of the docks and canal was so real.
August 12, 2025
Excellent read
I have now read all three books in the series and would recommend them by giving five 🌟. They were hard to put down and they made you feel involved in the story.
Excellent set of books by the author.
I have now read all three books in the series and would recommend them by giving five 🌟. They were hard to put down and they made you feel involved in the story.
Excellent set of books by the author.
April 23, 2022
My review of The Mersey Mothers can be found on my blog...
https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
April 30, 2022
Good
This book was good but quite repetitive, I have read the first two and enjoyed them but found at times that in this one things were repeated lot and was unnecessary,
This book was good but quite repetitive, I have read the first two and enjoyed them but found at times that in this one things were repeated lot and was unnecessary,
May 24, 2022
Different to what I was expecting
Although this was quite different to what I expected it was still a really good story. I now need to go back and read the first 2 books!
Although this was quite different to what I expected it was still a really good story. I now need to go back and read the first 2 books!
August 16, 2022
Good ending to the trilogy
December 12, 2023
Love this series
This series is awesome! Book 3 is full of twists and turns, love, heartache and happiness!! A great read! A page turner of post WWII
Liverpool!
This series is awesome! Book 3 is full of twists and turns, love, heartache and happiness!! A great read! A page turner of post WWII
Liverpool!
August 2, 2024
First book I have read by Sheila Riley. This was a lovely read but I think it would have been better had I read the previous books in the series.
September 1, 2024
wonderful funny phrases
Loved this book,laughed at the phrases and mixed up words from Ada.
A real page turner.
Characters were so believable.
Loved this book,laughed at the phrases and mixed up words from Ada.
A real page turner.
Characters were so believable.
May 11, 2022
This is book #3 of the Reckoner’s Row series, set in Liverpool, post war and on the run up to the Queen’s coronation in 1953. The residents of Reckoner’s Row are still finding things tough, and rationing is still in place. There is a wedding on the horizon for Evie Kilgaren and Danny Harris, but secrets come tumbling out when Ada Harris’s estranged husband, Bert, reveals a deathbed secret.
I must admit that I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, and I did struggle with the characters backstories. The author has done a good job of including some of the history in the story, but I do think I would have connected with the characters better if I had read the previous books. The characters are however likeable and their stories in this book are endearing and emotional. The storyline shows well the struggles which communities such as these were still facing so long after the war had finished. I particularly liked Ada’s character and felt for her predicament having to decide what to do with Bert’s deathbed confession.
The book flowed along at a good pace, taking you into the heart of the women’s lives and homes. The storyline gave good insight into what life was like then, and I loved the location of Liverpool and was able to picture the areas despite it probably being many years that they were last seen like that. The story was filled with sadness, happiness, friends and family and it was an easy to read, heart-warming book with a touch of mystery and a lot of love and life. I would, however, recommend that the books are read in series order as I don’t think they work well as a standalone, but I will be going back to read the previous two to catch up on the characters backstories!
I must admit that I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, and I did struggle with the characters backstories. The author has done a good job of including some of the history in the story, but I do think I would have connected with the characters better if I had read the previous books. The characters are however likeable and their stories in this book are endearing and emotional. The storyline shows well the struggles which communities such as these were still facing so long after the war had finished. I particularly liked Ada’s character and felt for her predicament having to decide what to do with Bert’s deathbed confession.
The book flowed along at a good pace, taking you into the heart of the women’s lives and homes. The storyline gave good insight into what life was like then, and I loved the location of Liverpool and was able to picture the areas despite it probably being many years that they were last seen like that. The story was filled with sadness, happiness, friends and family and it was an easy to read, heart-warming book with a touch of mystery and a lot of love and life. I would, however, recommend that the books are read in series order as I don’t think they work well as a standalone, but I will be going back to read the previous two to catch up on the characters backstories!
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