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The Stepney Girls #1
A Stepney Girl's Secret
'An enthralling page-turner' DILLY COURT
'A heart-warming WW2 love story' ROSIE GOODWIN
'A great new series from the queen of East End sagas' ELAINE EVEREST
A brand new heart-warming and atmospheric saga fiction series from Jean Fullerton, charting the loves, hopes and heartaches of three women who move into a rectory in Stepney, East London during WW2.
*
East London, 1940. Prue Carmichael never dreamed that she'd end up working at a railway yard. But when her reverend father is called up to Stepney, she and her family are uprooted from their country home for a new life in the turbulent city.
Determined to help with the war effort, Prue signs up for work and soon becomes intrigued by handsome train engineer Jack Quinn. But as the spark between them grows apparent, so does his troubled past - a past that Prue's mother would certainly not approve of.
In between cleaning train carriages and helping to shelter Jewish refugees, Prue manages to stay busy. But she has more than one admirer, and when Jack is recruited into Churchill's secret army, a very different suitor begins to pursue her.
As air raid sirens sound overhead, Prue Carmichael is facing her own battle - the fight between her heart and her head . . .
Amidst the ruins of war, will Prue and Jack's love find a way?
*
PRAISE FOR JEAN FULLERTON
'Food for the soul, it's simply deliciously readable and enjoyable' Liz Robinson, LoveReading
'Charming and full of detail... You will ride emotional highs and lows... Beautifully written' The Lady
'A delightful, well researched story' bestselling author Lesley Pearse
'A heart-warming WW2 love story' ROSIE GOODWIN
'A great new series from the queen of East End sagas' ELAINE EVEREST
A brand new heart-warming and atmospheric saga fiction series from Jean Fullerton, charting the loves, hopes and heartaches of three women who move into a rectory in Stepney, East London during WW2.
*
East London, 1940. Prue Carmichael never dreamed that she'd end up working at a railway yard. But when her reverend father is called up to Stepney, she and her family are uprooted from their country home for a new life in the turbulent city.
Determined to help with the war effort, Prue signs up for work and soon becomes intrigued by handsome train engineer Jack Quinn. But as the spark between them grows apparent, so does his troubled past - a past that Prue's mother would certainly not approve of.
In between cleaning train carriages and helping to shelter Jewish refugees, Prue manages to stay busy. But she has more than one admirer, and when Jack is recruited into Churchill's secret army, a very different suitor begins to pursue her.
As air raid sirens sound overhead, Prue Carmichael is facing her own battle - the fight between her heart and her head . . .
Amidst the ruins of war, will Prue and Jack's love find a way?
*
PRAISE FOR JEAN FULLERTON
'Food for the soul, it's simply deliciously readable and enjoyable' Liz Robinson, LoveReading
'Charming and full of detail... You will ride emotional highs and lows... Beautifully written' The Lady
'A delightful, well researched story' bestselling author Lesley Pearse
451 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2023
About the author
Jean Fullerton
32 books200 followersI was born into a large, East End family and grew up in the overcrowded streets clustered around the Tower of London. I still live in East London, just five miles from where I was born. I feel that it is that my background that gives my historical East London stories their distinctive authenticity.
I first fell in love with history at school when I read Anya Seton’s book Katherine. Since then I have read everything I can about English history but I am particularly fascinated by the 18th and 19th century and my books are set in this period. I just love my native city and the East End in particular which is why I write stories to bring that vibrant area of London alive.
I am also passionate about historical accuracy and I enjoy researching the details almost as much as weaving the story. If one of my characters walks down a street you can be assured that that street actually existed. Take a look at Jean’s East End and see the actual location where my characters played out their stories.
I first fell in love with history at school when I read Anya Seton’s book Katherine. Since then I have read everything I can about English history but I am particularly fascinated by the 18th and 19th century and my books are set in this period. I just love my native city and the East End in particular which is why I write stories to bring that vibrant area of London alive.
I am also passionate about historical accuracy and I enjoy researching the details almost as much as weaving the story. If one of my characters walks down a street you can be assured that that street actually existed. Take a look at Jean’s East End and see the actual location where my characters played out their stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 29, 2023
I have read many books by Fullerton. I loved the previous series with its feisty characters and historical setting. Going into this book with high hopes for a repeat of these feelings, I was left feeling a bit underwhelmed by both the narrative and characters.
To be honest, I don’t think the book really got going until two thirds of the way through. Fullerton takes her time establishing Prue and Jack’s characters. Whilst I appreciated this development (because it helps feed into the latter part of the novel), I thought some parts could have been condensed, turning this book into something under 500 pages. On the one hand, I respected the fact that the writer slowly develops the plot because it made the story all the more vivid and realistic as a result. Once again, it is clear that Fullerton has carefully researched this time period to make the narrative as accurate as possible. Yet, I also felt frustrated because I thought it made the plot less memorable and not a reflection of the writer I have come to love with the previous stories.
Prue’s character is just, quite frankly, nice. She’s nice to everyone and although she does have a bit of gumption, I thought she was a bit too “twee”. I wanted to see more fire and spirit in her: more moments repeated like when she stands up to her work bullies. In contrast, Jack is more dimensional because of his fractured past and I thought his dedication to his family and work was really admirable – I could really see why Prue falls for him! The two characters are destined to be together but it is not just the war that keeps them apart.
Once these characters have been established, the writing felt more like the Fullerton I recognised. The war setting becomes more prominent. It is no longer just going through the motions of housing refugees and creating bomb shelters, but actually using them and fighting for survival. The air raids increase through the story and this added drama and tension to the narrative, making it more of a gripping read. As a result, I thought the pace significantly increased and I grew to care more about the fortunes of Prue and Jack’s characters.
In my opinion, this is a solid story but a bit on the “safe” side. Father David is a scrupulous character, despite his religious calling, and his involvement in Prue’s life towards the end of the story made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. The manner in which Fullerton ends this book suggests that a series is to follow and I hope that for the next instalment, the plot picks up pace to reflect the intensifying conflict.
I liked this book but I didn’t fall in love with it. It was a straight-forward read but it could have become more dramatic with further twists and turns. Once finished, it felt like it was a story trying to get started and that the next book to come will be more explosive than this one, now that the characters are established. Undoubtedly, it reflects Fullerton’s skills as a historical novelist, but I do feel that something was missing from this story.
With thanks to Atlantic, Corvus books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
To be honest, I don’t think the book really got going until two thirds of the way through. Fullerton takes her time establishing Prue and Jack’s characters. Whilst I appreciated this development (because it helps feed into the latter part of the novel), I thought some parts could have been condensed, turning this book into something under 500 pages. On the one hand, I respected the fact that the writer slowly develops the plot because it made the story all the more vivid and realistic as a result. Once again, it is clear that Fullerton has carefully researched this time period to make the narrative as accurate as possible. Yet, I also felt frustrated because I thought it made the plot less memorable and not a reflection of the writer I have come to love with the previous stories.
Prue’s character is just, quite frankly, nice. She’s nice to everyone and although she does have a bit of gumption, I thought she was a bit too “twee”. I wanted to see more fire and spirit in her: more moments repeated like when she stands up to her work bullies. In contrast, Jack is more dimensional because of his fractured past and I thought his dedication to his family and work was really admirable – I could really see why Prue falls for him! The two characters are destined to be together but it is not just the war that keeps them apart.
Once these characters have been established, the writing felt more like the Fullerton I recognised. The war setting becomes more prominent. It is no longer just going through the motions of housing refugees and creating bomb shelters, but actually using them and fighting for survival. The air raids increase through the story and this added drama and tension to the narrative, making it more of a gripping read. As a result, I thought the pace significantly increased and I grew to care more about the fortunes of Prue and Jack’s characters.
In my opinion, this is a solid story but a bit on the “safe” side. Father David is a scrupulous character, despite his religious calling, and his involvement in Prue’s life towards the end of the story made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. The manner in which Fullerton ends this book suggests that a series is to follow and I hope that for the next instalment, the plot picks up pace to reflect the intensifying conflict.
I liked this book but I didn’t fall in love with it. It was a straight-forward read but it could have become more dramatic with further twists and turns. Once finished, it felt like it was a story trying to get started and that the next book to come will be more explosive than this one, now that the characters are established. Undoubtedly, it reflects Fullerton’s skills as a historical novelist, but I do feel that something was missing from this story.
With thanks to Atlantic, Corvus books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2023
I absolutely love this author's books!! The Ration Book Series was brilliant and this new one is shaping up to be just as good.
Prue Carmichael, a vicar's daughter, has moved with her family from a quiet country parish to the East End in London and it's 1940. Straight away she throws herself into war work, getting a job at the Shunting Yard working on the trains, helping out with fire watching and setting up a shelter. Her mother is the kind of woman I despise, wanting her own way in everything and using any means to get it. Her father, Hugh, is a quiet, holy man who seems to only live for his church. Her brother is in the army and her sister works at a newspaper office.
Along comes Jack Quinn, a railway engineer and as far as Prue's mother is concerned, way below them on the social scale. He and Prue fall for each other almost immediately. Jack comes with baggage, some of it which can cause problems for them. Prue's mother has set her sights on Father David Harmsworth, her husband's curate, as a husband for Prue.
Throughout the story Prue becomes stronger as a person. She tries to keep the peace between herself and her mother but eventually stands up for herself. Father David is a slimy toad and not a proper person to be a man of God.
There is a lot of information about the railway yard and the women's work there. I found it all very interesting. The research was very well done. The description of the biltz was brilliant and I could almost hear the bombs dropping. I was practically wrung dry of emotion during the last few chapters they were so tense!
A fantastic read and now I'll be waiting impatiently for the next in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atlantic Books for an early copy.
Prue Carmichael, a vicar's daughter, has moved with her family from a quiet country parish to the East End in London and it's 1940. Straight away she throws herself into war work, getting a job at the Shunting Yard working on the trains, helping out with fire watching and setting up a shelter. Her mother is the kind of woman I despise, wanting her own way in everything and using any means to get it. Her father, Hugh, is a quiet, holy man who seems to only live for his church. Her brother is in the army and her sister works at a newspaper office.
Along comes Jack Quinn, a railway engineer and as far as Prue's mother is concerned, way below them on the social scale. He and Prue fall for each other almost immediately. Jack comes with baggage, some of it which can cause problems for them. Prue's mother has set her sights on Father David Harmsworth, her husband's curate, as a husband for Prue.
Throughout the story Prue becomes stronger as a person. She tries to keep the peace between herself and her mother but eventually stands up for herself. Father David is a slimy toad and not a proper person to be a man of God.
There is a lot of information about the railway yard and the women's work there. I found it all very interesting. The research was very well done. The description of the biltz was brilliant and I could almost hear the bombs dropping. I was practically wrung dry of emotion during the last few chapters they were so tense!
A fantastic read and now I'll be waiting impatiently for the next in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atlantic Books for an early copy.
October 20, 2023
I love World War II stories that are set on the Homefront. This one is a slow burn, while I was expecting a secret romance with lots of stolen moments, it's not like this at all. It actually takes a really long time for Prue and Jack to get together. I think it would have been better if this had happened sooner.
The characters are likable, the ones you are supposed to like anyways. The ones you are not supposed to like, creepy Father David and Gladys, who quiet frankly should have been arrested! make good villains.
Not a bad book but I have read better books set during this time.
The characters are likable, the ones you are supposed to like anyways. The ones you are not supposed to like, creepy Father David and Gladys, who quiet frankly should have been arrested! make good villains.
Not a bad book but I have read better books set during this time.
July 2, 2023
I did enjoy this one but, not as much as the previous series. I'll probably grow to like it more if there is another book coming. The characters weren't so warm in this one. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 22, 2023
Stepney East End London.
Prudence Carmichael (Prue) and her parents have left St Stephens vicarage in Biddenham Bedfordshire heading for London and its a lot faster and busier to their arrival at St Winifred rectory that is very impressive with acres of land the iron gates are long gone this is 1940 and WW2 is soon declared a new start a new beginning and Prue is hoping to sign up for war work. Jack Quinn a bit of a wild boy with a troubled past at their works at Stratford Railway Locomotive Works and Prue is smitten with him and her parents have other ideas for her as an ideal husband putting her foot down she will only marry for love and nothing else. She will do everything to keep him.
This is such a beautiful read, head strong Prue in her determination to work hard and doing her bit for the war, it's not short of plenty of ups and downs along the way, that will pull at your heart strings in more ways that one.
This is book one in The Stepney Girls from the Queen of the east end with lots of research going to in for her readers to enjoy.
I loved it all.
Prudence Carmichael (Prue) and her parents have left St Stephens vicarage in Biddenham Bedfordshire heading for London and its a lot faster and busier to their arrival at St Winifred rectory that is very impressive with acres of land the iron gates are long gone this is 1940 and WW2 is soon declared a new start a new beginning and Prue is hoping to sign up for war work. Jack Quinn a bit of a wild boy with a troubled past at their works at Stratford Railway Locomotive Works and Prue is smitten with him and her parents have other ideas for her as an ideal husband putting her foot down she will only marry for love and nothing else. She will do everything to keep him.
This is such a beautiful read, head strong Prue in her determination to work hard and doing her bit for the war, it's not short of plenty of ups and downs along the way, that will pull at your heart strings in more ways that one.
This is book one in The Stepney Girls from the Queen of the east end with lots of research going to in for her readers to enjoy.
I loved it all.
May 2, 2023
As a Stepney girl myself, how could I possibly resist this book. It has been a number of years since I lived there, but it was where I spent my formative years and I still have a fondness for it.
If you would like to read my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
If you would like to read my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
May 10, 2023
It is 1940. Prudence ‘Prue’ Carmichael is twenty-three years old and a vicar’s daughter. At the start of the book, we meet her and her family as they move house from rural Bedfordshire to London, where the Revd Hugh Carmichael is taking over a parish in Stepney. They move into St Winifred’s Rectory. Father David Harmsworth is the curate and also lives at the Rectory, where he is quickly enchanted by Prue.
Twenty-eight-year-old Jack Quinn works as an engineer on the London and North Eastern Railway. Despite his job being a reserved occupation, he applies to his manager every week to be allowed to leave and join the army. As soon as he hears the government asking for volunteers for the new Local Defence Volunteers, he signs up.
As Prue and Jack begin to fall for each other, will Jack’s past spoil things?
I got into the story right away and really liked Prue from the first page. I was interested in the story and the setting, especially with the family moving to London in the early part of World War II. I really liked the refugees moving in and finding out more about Prue’s developing friendships with the women of the area (especially Sister Martha) and at work.
Her dilemma over her suitors was well written too. While one is perfect for her on paper, he doesn’t make her world rock like the more unsuitable choice. What will happen? You have to read to find out.
I felt the book was very well-written, the historical aspect felt authentic and the story was well paced too. I was happy to read this book, found it very enjoyable and I look forward to reading more in the Stepney Girls series.
Twenty-eight-year-old Jack Quinn works as an engineer on the London and North Eastern Railway. Despite his job being a reserved occupation, he applies to his manager every week to be allowed to leave and join the army. As soon as he hears the government asking for volunteers for the new Local Defence Volunteers, he signs up.
As Prue and Jack begin to fall for each other, will Jack’s past spoil things?
I got into the story right away and really liked Prue from the first page. I was interested in the story and the setting, especially with the family moving to London in the early part of World War II. I really liked the refugees moving in and finding out more about Prue’s developing friendships with the women of the area (especially Sister Martha) and at work.
Her dilemma over her suitors was well written too. While one is perfect for her on paper, he doesn’t make her world rock like the more unsuitable choice. What will happen? You have to read to find out.
I felt the book was very well-written, the historical aspect felt authentic and the story was well paced too. I was happy to read this book, found it very enjoyable and I look forward to reading more in the Stepney Girls series.
May 8, 2023
Hello and welcome to my stop on this fabulous Blog Tour, I hope you enjoy my review.
I’ve read The Ration Book Series by this author and it’s one of my favourite series ever, I read them all within a week when I first discovered them, so I was delighted to be part of this Blog Tour for this new series.
Prudence (Prue) along with her parish priest father Hugh and her overbearing mother Marjorie are leaving the quite rural village life in Bedfordshire behind for a new life in London at St Winifred’s Rectory in Stepney.
With War about to be declared and a brother/son in the Army it’s all change for this family in more ways than one.
What follows is a riveting story of how Prue settles in to living in the East End and all the people she meets as she signs up for War Work with the Railways and the highs and lows of War along with new found love with Jack and heartbreak.
With it’s fair share of shocks, twists, humour and heartwarming moments, it’s a book you don’t want to miss out on.
I couldn’t stop reading, the extensive research that must have gone in to this book is shown on every page and it’s just the perfect start to a new Saga Series.
The plight of the Jewish Refugees really stole my heart and whilst I was reading I was thinking people in 2023 should take a look at how we helped other people fleeing war torn countries in the 1940’s.
I’ve read The Ration Book Series by this author and it’s one of my favourite series ever, I read them all within a week when I first discovered them, so I was delighted to be part of this Blog Tour for this new series.
Prudence (Prue) along with her parish priest father Hugh and her overbearing mother Marjorie are leaving the quite rural village life in Bedfordshire behind for a new life in London at St Winifred’s Rectory in Stepney.
With War about to be declared and a brother/son in the Army it’s all change for this family in more ways than one.
What follows is a riveting story of how Prue settles in to living in the East End and all the people she meets as she signs up for War Work with the Railways and the highs and lows of War along with new found love with Jack and heartbreak.
With it’s fair share of shocks, twists, humour and heartwarming moments, it’s a book you don’t want to miss out on.
I couldn’t stop reading, the extensive research that must have gone in to this book is shown on every page and it’s just the perfect start to a new Saga Series.
The plight of the Jewish Refugees really stole my heart and whilst I was reading I was thinking people in 2023 should take a look at how we helped other people fleeing war torn countries in the 1940’s.
July 10, 2023
Very disappointing
Loved the ration book series and this just did not come anywhere near
Loved the ration book series and this just did not come anywhere near
August 20, 2025
I listened to this on borrowbox and I'm amazed at how many times the word 'however' was used. You could take a shot every time the word was used and be pished by chapter 4.
Read
April 8, 2023What a lovely read this was I was hooked from the start and I Loved Prue,this book made it feel so real as though you were there along side the characters.Jean Fullerton writes such lovely books and fans will love this new book.5*
September 28, 2023
This is the first time I've read a Jean Fullerton book and it certainly won't be the last, this was a very enjoyable read.
We first meet a 23year old Prudence 'Prue' Carmichael in 1940 when she moves with her parents Revd Hugh & Marjorie Carmichael to Stepney, East London, her father is moving on parish to take over as Vicar at St Winifred's, leaving behind a quiet country parish. On arrival she finds life in Stepney to be much busier than she's used too and soon has her first encounter with Father David Harmsworth, her father's new curate. Prue's mother expects her to help set up the rectory and to help with the parish duties but although she helps her mother, Prue wants to do more for the war effort.
Prue's first task is to find the town hall and register the family so the get their rations. So the next morning Prue sets off with directions to the town hall from Father David but she quickly becomes lost and has to retrace her steps back towards the Police Station to get new directions. As she crosses the road she is nearly run over by a truck, luckily she has just enough time to jump onto the pavement but stumbles against a wall. Shocked and shaken Prue realises a rather handsome man has come to her aid, once steadied Prue explains where she was heading to and gets new directions. Unknown to Prue this was her first meeting with Jack Quinn.
With the rectory nearly organised Prue decides its time to seek a job to help the war effort, she sets off and finds one helping on the railways much to her mother's dismay. Meanwhile Prue's mother Marjorie is more interested in getting Prue married off to what she sees as a suitable husband for a vicar's daughter and has decided she thinks Father David is just such a man, especially when she notices him taking an interest in Prue, much to Prue's dismay.
It was after the families first Sunday service at St.Winifred's in the church hall where Prue & her family were meeting the church parishioners that Prue first meets Sister Martha, the parish nun and is introduced to a pregnant Rosie who's husband, like Prue's brother was away fighting.
Whilst chatting Prue tells Rosie that she's starting work at the shunting yards and Rosie reveals that her brother Jack also works at the yards as an engineer. Meanwhile Jack is on his weekly visit with his daughter Rachel and is enjoying a day at the park.
On her first day at the Stratford shunting yards, Prue isn't sure what to expect at first but soon finds she will be set to work cleaning carriages. It wasn't what she expected but Prue was happy to be helping with the war effort so Prue and her fellow cleaning crewmates get on with the work which was hard at first but they soon get used to it. It was on this first day at the yards that whilst on break in the canteen Jack had Knobby complaining to him about the new woman workers at the yards, at first Jack didn't pay much attention until he notices them lined up in the canteen and realises standing there is the beautiful woman he'd helped a few days before, Jack couldn't resist and walks over to say Hello.
After that first day in the canteen, Prue and Jack regularly wave or say Hello in passing at work, sometimes meeting in the canteen to chat. She even invites Jack and his daughter to a garden party at the rectory, much to Father David's annoyance. Father David has it in mind to marry Prue so isn't happy about the increasing connection he sees developing between her and Jack.
Prue finds herself increasingly attracted to Jack but with her Mother's expectations playing on her mind she holds back. Prue is struggling with her feeling for Jack as she knows her family and the church wouldn't approve of a relationship between them as he is a divorcee who married outside his faith and has a half Jewish daughter.
Will Prue do what is expected of her by her parents, do what a vicar's daughter ought to do and marry a man of the cloth or will she defy her mother, follow her heart and give into her feelings for Jack?
We first meet a 23year old Prudence 'Prue' Carmichael in 1940 when she moves with her parents Revd Hugh & Marjorie Carmichael to Stepney, East London, her father is moving on parish to take over as Vicar at St Winifred's, leaving behind a quiet country parish. On arrival she finds life in Stepney to be much busier than she's used too and soon has her first encounter with Father David Harmsworth, her father's new curate. Prue's mother expects her to help set up the rectory and to help with the parish duties but although she helps her mother, Prue wants to do more for the war effort.
Prue's first task is to find the town hall and register the family so the get their rations. So the next morning Prue sets off with directions to the town hall from Father David but she quickly becomes lost and has to retrace her steps back towards the Police Station to get new directions. As she crosses the road she is nearly run over by a truck, luckily she has just enough time to jump onto the pavement but stumbles against a wall. Shocked and shaken Prue realises a rather handsome man has come to her aid, once steadied Prue explains where she was heading to and gets new directions. Unknown to Prue this was her first meeting with Jack Quinn.
With the rectory nearly organised Prue decides its time to seek a job to help the war effort, she sets off and finds one helping on the railways much to her mother's dismay. Meanwhile Prue's mother Marjorie is more interested in getting Prue married off to what she sees as a suitable husband for a vicar's daughter and has decided she thinks Father David is just such a man, especially when she notices him taking an interest in Prue, much to Prue's dismay.
It was after the families first Sunday service at St.Winifred's in the church hall where Prue & her family were meeting the church parishioners that Prue first meets Sister Martha, the parish nun and is introduced to a pregnant Rosie who's husband, like Prue's brother was away fighting.
Whilst chatting Prue tells Rosie that she's starting work at the shunting yards and Rosie reveals that her brother Jack also works at the yards as an engineer. Meanwhile Jack is on his weekly visit with his daughter Rachel and is enjoying a day at the park.
On her first day at the Stratford shunting yards, Prue isn't sure what to expect at first but soon finds she will be set to work cleaning carriages. It wasn't what she expected but Prue was happy to be helping with the war effort so Prue and her fellow cleaning crewmates get on with the work which was hard at first but they soon get used to it. It was on this first day at the yards that whilst on break in the canteen Jack had Knobby complaining to him about the new woman workers at the yards, at first Jack didn't pay much attention until he notices them lined up in the canteen and realises standing there is the beautiful woman he'd helped a few days before, Jack couldn't resist and walks over to say Hello.
After that first day in the canteen, Prue and Jack regularly wave or say Hello in passing at work, sometimes meeting in the canteen to chat. She even invites Jack and his daughter to a garden party at the rectory, much to Father David's annoyance. Father David has it in mind to marry Prue so isn't happy about the increasing connection he sees developing between her and Jack.
Prue finds herself increasingly attracted to Jack but with her Mother's expectations playing on her mind she holds back. Prue is struggling with her feeling for Jack as she knows her family and the church wouldn't approve of a relationship between them as he is a divorcee who married outside his faith and has a half Jewish daughter.
Will Prue do what is expected of her by her parents, do what a vicar's daughter ought to do and marry a man of the cloth or will she defy her mother, follow her heart and give into her feelings for Jack?
May 9, 2023
I have been a fan of Jean’s work for a while now. Much to my shame, I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written but that is something that will definitely be rectified in the not too distant future. I read the synopsis of ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of story I have come to expect from Jean- an emotional but ultimately heartwarming historical family saga. Well it was certainly all that and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ but more abotu that in a bit.
I have to say that I loved the character of Prudence Carmichael (or Prue for short) and I warmed to her from the very start. In fact ti didn’t take me long to feel as though she had become a friend of mine and I felt all protective of her. She is the daughter of a reverend who has been reassigned to a parish in London, which is at the opposite end of the scale to his previous parish. Prue’s parents take quite a while to adapt whereas Prue seems to adapt really well. Prue is kind, compassionate, sensitive and she is also a determined and stubborn young lady. I kept everything crossed that she would find the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn to this book by the fact that I saw the front cover of a book with the name ‘Jean Fullerton’ on and I knew that I hadn’t read it yet. I made the fatal mistake of picking up the book shortly before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was delayed and I had a distinct ‘lack of sleep’ hangover but it was so worth it. To say that reading ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ became addictive is a wee bit of an understatement. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I would still be sat there reading several chapters and an hour or so later.n The more of the book that I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ and I had to say goodbye to Prue and the rest of the characters. I found ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ to be a gripping story, which certainly kept me guessing. I loved it!
‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Jean Fullerton. Jean has an easy going writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. Jean clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. As I mentioned above, I felt as though Prue had fast become a friend of mine. I love the way in which Jean makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt anyway.
In short I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I look forward to reading much more of Jean’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I have to say that I loved the character of Prudence Carmichael (or Prue for short) and I warmed to her from the very start. In fact ti didn’t take me long to feel as though she had become a friend of mine and I felt all protective of her. She is the daughter of a reverend who has been reassigned to a parish in London, which is at the opposite end of the scale to his previous parish. Prue’s parents take quite a while to adapt whereas Prue seems to adapt really well. Prue is kind, compassionate, sensitive and she is also a determined and stubborn young lady. I kept everything crossed that she would find the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn to this book by the fact that I saw the front cover of a book with the name ‘Jean Fullerton’ on and I knew that I hadn’t read it yet. I made the fatal mistake of picking up the book shortly before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was delayed and I had a distinct ‘lack of sleep’ hangover but it was so worth it. To say that reading ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ became addictive is a wee bit of an understatement. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I would still be sat there reading several chapters and an hour or so later.n The more of the book that I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ and I had to say goodbye to Prue and the rest of the characters. I found ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ to be a gripping story, which certainly kept me guessing. I loved it!
‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Jean Fullerton. Jean has an easy going writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. Jean clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. As I mentioned above, I felt as though Prue had fast become a friend of mine. I love the way in which Jean makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt anyway.
In short I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Stepney Girl’s Secret’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I look forward to reading much more of Jean’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
April 30, 2023
From the author of the immensely popular Ration Book series of books, we have a new book from this very talented writer. Set in London in 1940, we meet Prue Carmichael, the daughter of a clergyman who has moved from a sleepy Bedfordshire village to Stepney in London, along with her parents Marjorie and the Revd Hugh Carmichael. Prue is determined to do her bit for the war effort and signs on to do essential work at the railway station, she meets lot of friends doing her job of cleaner and also some jealous women cleaning the railway carriages, but one person that she bumps into quite a bit is Jack.
As war is rumbling on over on the continent, refugees are slowly making their way into England, and the residents of Stepney are determined to do their bit by taking in families into their homes. Prue soon volunteers to take in three groups as they have three spare rooms that used to be the servants quarters, this didn't go down too well with her mother, though. With the work at the railway yard and helping out with the refugees, and now working to make a safe place to shelter in one of the old crypts, Prue is certainly busy but not too busy to make time to see Jack whenever she possibly can, Jack is also kept busy though with his work at the Local Defence Corp as well as doing repairs at the railway yard. But things are not going smooth for the couple, there are jealous women, angry men from the yard and most of all Prue's mother who would rather see her marry Father David and therefore be out of Jack's reach. As days go by, Prue realises who it is she really loves and is understandably shocked by a recent bombing raid and also being totally persued by Father David, who she can't seem to get away from.
After a big mistake is made, Prue thinks she has lost Jack forever, but will she manage to persuade everyone that he is innocent.?
A must read for saga lovers and Jean Fullerton fans, you will love finding out about Prue, her family and friends and more importantly how she gets on with her relationship with Jack, will it be strong enough to survive the continual criticism from Prue's family or will she lose Jack forever? A well deserved five star read from me, and I hope there is more to come from Prue and Jack in the future.
As war is rumbling on over on the continent, refugees are slowly making their way into England, and the residents of Stepney are determined to do their bit by taking in families into their homes. Prue soon volunteers to take in three groups as they have three spare rooms that used to be the servants quarters, this didn't go down too well with her mother, though. With the work at the railway yard and helping out with the refugees, and now working to make a safe place to shelter in one of the old crypts, Prue is certainly busy but not too busy to make time to see Jack whenever she possibly can, Jack is also kept busy though with his work at the Local Defence Corp as well as doing repairs at the railway yard. But things are not going smooth for the couple, there are jealous women, angry men from the yard and most of all Prue's mother who would rather see her marry Father David and therefore be out of Jack's reach. As days go by, Prue realises who it is she really loves and is understandably shocked by a recent bombing raid and also being totally persued by Father David, who she can't seem to get away from.
After a big mistake is made, Prue thinks she has lost Jack forever, but will she manage to persuade everyone that he is innocent.?
A must read for saga lovers and Jean Fullerton fans, you will love finding out about Prue, her family and friends and more importantly how she gets on with her relationship with Jack, will it be strong enough to survive the continual criticism from Prue's family or will she lose Jack forever? A well deserved five star read from me, and I hope there is more to come from Prue and Jack in the future.
May 12, 2023
Rating: 4.5 Stars
A Stepney Secret is the first title in an enthralling new series from the Queen of the East End saga: Jean Fullerton.
Prue Carmichael never imagined that she would find herself toiling at a railway yard, but when her reverend father had been called up to Stepney, Prue and her family had to swap their country home for life in the capital city. With war having ravaged London, Prue’s new life is far removed from her old one, but she is determined to get stuck in and to do her duty for king and country. Determined to help with the war effort, Prue signs up and finds herself drawn to charming engineer Jack Quinn. However, the dashing engineer has a troubled past and secrets Prue is sure her mother would not approve of. Will Prue choose her head over heart? Or will staying away from Jack prove easier said than done?
Amidst all the chaos, upheaval and hardship, Prue manages to keep busy by helping to shelter Jewish refugees and ensuring that the train carriage are spotless. However, when Jack is recruited in Churchill’s secret army, she attracts the attention of a new suitor who seems very keen to pursue her. As Prue finds herself faced with an impossible decision, she wonders whether she can ever have a future with Jack. Or whether their love will end up another casualty of this cruel and senseless war.
Curling up with one of Jean Fullerton’s wartime sagas is always such a joy and this talented writer has outdone herself with her latest novel, A Stepney Secret. Written straight from the heart, this beautifully atmospheric and wonderfully told saga will delight readers with a beguiling blend of exquisite period detail, emotional veracity, nail-biting drama and tender romance. With characters that leap off the pages and plenty of wit, pathos and warmth, A Stepney Secret is another must-read saga from Jean Fullerton’s very gifted pen.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Stepney Secret is the first title in an enthralling new series from the Queen of the East End saga: Jean Fullerton.
Prue Carmichael never imagined that she would find herself toiling at a railway yard, but when her reverend father had been called up to Stepney, Prue and her family had to swap their country home for life in the capital city. With war having ravaged London, Prue’s new life is far removed from her old one, but she is determined to get stuck in and to do her duty for king and country. Determined to help with the war effort, Prue signs up and finds herself drawn to charming engineer Jack Quinn. However, the dashing engineer has a troubled past and secrets Prue is sure her mother would not approve of. Will Prue choose her head over heart? Or will staying away from Jack prove easier said than done?
Amidst all the chaos, upheaval and hardship, Prue manages to keep busy by helping to shelter Jewish refugees and ensuring that the train carriage are spotless. However, when Jack is recruited in Churchill’s secret army, she attracts the attention of a new suitor who seems very keen to pursue her. As Prue finds herself faced with an impossible decision, she wonders whether she can ever have a future with Jack. Or whether their love will end up another casualty of this cruel and senseless war.
Curling up with one of Jean Fullerton’s wartime sagas is always such a joy and this talented writer has outdone herself with her latest novel, A Stepney Secret. Written straight from the heart, this beautifully atmospheric and wonderfully told saga will delight readers with a beguiling blend of exquisite period detail, emotional veracity, nail-biting drama and tender romance. With characters that leap off the pages and plenty of wit, pathos and warmth, A Stepney Secret is another must-read saga from Jean Fullerton’s very gifted pen.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2023
A Stepney Girl’s Secret by Jean Fullerton is a compelling historical novel that entertained me from the start.
The action is set in London in 1940 at the start of the Blitz. We witness the preparations for fear of attack after the end of the phony war. We see children returning to London after being previously evacuated to the countryside.
The British are a stoic nation. They take what life throws at them, keep calm and carry on.
A family move from a rural vicarage to a London one. They throw their lives into the war effort, providing shelter for refugee mothers and their children as well as opening up the crypt for an air raid shelter.
Everyone is required to play their part. The vicar’s daughter signs up for war work and is rather surprised at the job she is given. With the men away fighting, the women must step up into the vacancies left behind.
Life and death, birth and marriages still continue. True love will find a way despite the actions of some.
There are those who seek to make marriage alliances for the sake of appearance rather than for love. There are those who try to bulldoze others but are met with resistance.
Not everyone is as they seem. Under cover operations are on a need-to-know basis, as mouths must stay silent due to the official secrets act.
All the characters are well drawn and realistic. Our responses to them are guided by the author’s pen.
I always love Jean Fullerton’s novels. A Stepney Girl’s Secret is a marvellous read as we follow the brave Londoners through the early years of war.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set in London in 1940 at the start of the Blitz. We witness the preparations for fear of attack after the end of the phony war. We see children returning to London after being previously evacuated to the countryside.
The British are a stoic nation. They take what life throws at them, keep calm and carry on.
A family move from a rural vicarage to a London one. They throw their lives into the war effort, providing shelter for refugee mothers and their children as well as opening up the crypt for an air raid shelter.
Everyone is required to play their part. The vicar’s daughter signs up for war work and is rather surprised at the job she is given. With the men away fighting, the women must step up into the vacancies left behind.
Life and death, birth and marriages still continue. True love will find a way despite the actions of some.
There are those who seek to make marriage alliances for the sake of appearance rather than for love. There are those who try to bulldoze others but are met with resistance.
Not everyone is as they seem. Under cover operations are on a need-to-know basis, as mouths must stay silent due to the official secrets act.
All the characters are well drawn and realistic. Our responses to them are guided by the author’s pen.
I always love Jean Fullerton’s novels. A Stepney Girl’s Secret is a marvellous read as we follow the brave Londoners through the early years of war.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
April 24, 2023
Time taken to read - 3 days (as able)
Pages - 451
Publisher - Corvus
Source - Review book
Blurb from Goodreads
East London, 1940. Prue Carmichael never dreamed that she'd end up working at a railway yard. But when her reverend father is called up to Stepney, she and her family are uprooted from their country home for a new life in the turbulent city.
Determined to help with the war effort, Prue signs up for work and soon becomes intrigued by handsome train engineer Jack Quinn. But as the spark between them grows apparent, so does his troubled past - a past that Prue's mother would certainly not approve of.
In between cleaning train carriages and helping to shelter Jewish refugees, Prue manages to stay busy. But she has more than one admirer, and when Jack is recruited into Churchill's secret army, a very different suitor begins to pursue her.
As air raid sirens sound overhead, Prue Carmichael is facing her own battle - the fight between her heart and her head . . .
Amidst the ruins of war, will Prue and Jack's love find a way?
My Review
Meet Prue, daughter of a reverend who has been uprooted to Stepney with her family from the small quiet countryside to London (east end). The time is the 1940s and war is afoot. Prue immediately steps up, whilst her mother likes to play the part of doing good Prue is the real deal. She is the first to help out and signs up to do her part, as the men are being called up to fight more and more women are stepping up to do the jobs they would normally do. Whilst Prue's mother is more interesting in matchmaking Prue to the local priest Prue is determined to help out her community and catches the eye of a fellow worker whose reputation is less than pristine!
Whilst the threat of war is around we get to know more about the characters, the priest has his eye on Prue, Prue and one of her co workers have a spark and he is by no means acceptable or what Prue's mother would consider on their level, she is pushing for the priest.
The book tackles different issues, classism - I really wasn't a fan of her mum, the priests wife who gave a face for the public but wasn't actually the nicest or as selfless as her public portrayal. This added to how real and selfless Prue was. When an author does this and captures it well you absorb into the characters and their lives, love them or hate them. Relationships - family and the effects of war.
I have read Fullerton before and will read again, she has a way of creating and capturing an authenticity with time and place and the characters who grace us through the stories. From the shady, heart felt and genuine characters we have a whole mixed bag, 4/5 for me.
Pages - 451
Publisher - Corvus
Source - Review book
Blurb from Goodreads
East London, 1940. Prue Carmichael never dreamed that she'd end up working at a railway yard. But when her reverend father is called up to Stepney, she and her family are uprooted from their country home for a new life in the turbulent city.
Determined to help with the war effort, Prue signs up for work and soon becomes intrigued by handsome train engineer Jack Quinn. But as the spark between them grows apparent, so does his troubled past - a past that Prue's mother would certainly not approve of.
In between cleaning train carriages and helping to shelter Jewish refugees, Prue manages to stay busy. But she has more than one admirer, and when Jack is recruited into Churchill's secret army, a very different suitor begins to pursue her.
As air raid sirens sound overhead, Prue Carmichael is facing her own battle - the fight between her heart and her head . . .
Amidst the ruins of war, will Prue and Jack's love find a way?
My Review
Meet Prue, daughter of a reverend who has been uprooted to Stepney with her family from the small quiet countryside to London (east end). The time is the 1940s and war is afoot. Prue immediately steps up, whilst her mother likes to play the part of doing good Prue is the real deal. She is the first to help out and signs up to do her part, as the men are being called up to fight more and more women are stepping up to do the jobs they would normally do. Whilst Prue's mother is more interesting in matchmaking Prue to the local priest Prue is determined to help out her community and catches the eye of a fellow worker whose reputation is less than pristine!
Whilst the threat of war is around we get to know more about the characters, the priest has his eye on Prue, Prue and one of her co workers have a spark and he is by no means acceptable or what Prue's mother would consider on their level, she is pushing for the priest.
The book tackles different issues, classism - I really wasn't a fan of her mum, the priests wife who gave a face for the public but wasn't actually the nicest or as selfless as her public portrayal. This added to how real and selfless Prue was. When an author does this and captures it well you absorb into the characters and their lives, love them or hate them. Relationships - family and the effects of war.
I have read Fullerton before and will read again, she has a way of creating and capturing an authenticity with time and place and the characters who grace us through the stories. From the shady, heart felt and genuine characters we have a whole mixed bag, 4/5 for me.
May 10, 2023
1940 East London, Most of the men have gone to war, leaving the women to step up and do the jobs they've left behind to keep the home front going.
It sounds like the normal, women doing the men's jobs etc and with very little thanks and obvious dislike from who are left behind and the women trying to prove their worth. And not only that, they also have to contend with their own families against the idea!
But 'A Stepney Girl's Secret' isn't your normal read on this subject of respect and acceptance. There is so much more going on behind the scenes for the women and for the men, it's Churchill's Secret Army'.
And even for years after the war, very few people knew about it, nor were they recognised for their bravery and sacrifice. For it was, what it was, 'a secret! This secret is uncovered in this amazing book!
I was holding my breath and had to keep reading. To think you could be working in absolute secrecy with the government and in some simple act, be caught and accused and then condemn for treason and even be hanged!!! And you were unable to say anything, or call on anyone for fear of wrecking the whole operation and putting everyone in danger!
You have to read 'The Stepney Girl's Secret for yourself to know and understand what happens. It's an eye opener, as well as compelling reading, but all I can say is 'WOW', what a secret to hold!! Very highly recommended reading!
It sounds like the normal, women doing the men's jobs etc and with very little thanks and obvious dislike from who are left behind and the women trying to prove their worth. And not only that, they also have to contend with their own families against the idea!
But 'A Stepney Girl's Secret' isn't your normal read on this subject of respect and acceptance. There is so much more going on behind the scenes for the women and for the men, it's Churchill's Secret Army'.
And even for years after the war, very few people knew about it, nor were they recognised for their bravery and sacrifice. For it was, what it was, 'a secret! This secret is uncovered in this amazing book!
I was holding my breath and had to keep reading. To think you could be working in absolute secrecy with the government and in some simple act, be caught and accused and then condemn for treason and even be hanged!!! And you were unable to say anything, or call on anyone for fear of wrecking the whole operation and putting everyone in danger!
You have to read 'The Stepney Girl's Secret for yourself to know and understand what happens. It's an eye opener, as well as compelling reading, but all I can say is 'WOW', what a secret to hold!! Very highly recommended reading!
May 22, 2023
A Stepney Girl's Secret is the first in a new series by Jean Fullerton. It took me a while to get into it, but once the Blitz began in the story, I became really invested in it and couldn't read fast enough to see how it ended.
I enjoyed reading about how women did specific jobs at a train shunting station because the men that usually did the work had gone to fight in the war. Prue Carmichael, a vicar's daughter takes a position there, which is where she meets Jack, the man who could win her heart. The war, a jealous want-to-be suitor of Prue, and a jealous woman who wants Jack for herself, all play a part in putting obstacles in love's way. Did the couple get to have a happy ever after? You will have to read to find out for yourself.
There are a couple of things that kept the book from earning a 5-star rating from me. The first is how quickly the book ended. The second is that one of the characters who did something unforgivable was never given their comeuppance. What they did was never mentioned again and I believe that they deserved at least a good telling-off. I think that's part of what was missing at the end of the book. I was waiting for that to happen, and it didn't.
Other than that, and the slow start, once I got into the story I really enjoyed it. I definitely want to read the next books in the series when they are released.
I enjoyed reading about how women did specific jobs at a train shunting station because the men that usually did the work had gone to fight in the war. Prue Carmichael, a vicar's daughter takes a position there, which is where she meets Jack, the man who could win her heart. The war, a jealous want-to-be suitor of Prue, and a jealous woman who wants Jack for herself, all play a part in putting obstacles in love's way. Did the couple get to have a happy ever after? You will have to read to find out for yourself.
There are a couple of things that kept the book from earning a 5-star rating from me. The first is how quickly the book ended. The second is that one of the characters who did something unforgivable was never given their comeuppance. What they did was never mentioned again and I believe that they deserved at least a good telling-off. I think that's part of what was missing at the end of the book. I was waiting for that to happen, and it didn't.
Other than that, and the slow start, once I got into the story I really enjoyed it. I definitely want to read the next books in the series when they are released.
May 4, 2023
I love Jean Fullerton’s books and was happy to read this book which is the start of a new series. Set during the start of World War Two we met Prudence Carmichael and her family as her Father takes over as Vicar of St Winifred’s Church in Stepney. Coming from the parish in Biddenham the family soon notice a busier pace of life in London. Prue decides to get a job and is soon working at Stratford first as a cleaner and then as a lamp man. It doesn’t take long for Prue to notice Jack Quinn an engineer and when she finds out he is the brother of one of the Church parishioners that she’s made friends with she is soon bumping into Jack a lot. This brings problems from the Curate that has his eye on Prue and also Gladys at work who has designs on Jack. I enjoyed reading the ups and downs that Prue faced as she tried to find true love. I really enjoyed this book and all the great characters and I look forward to catching up with them again soon as the series progresses. I highly recommend this book
May 11, 2023
A Stepney Girls Secret is the first book in a brand new series and I thought it was an absolutely wonderful read . Set in the East End of London in 1940, during a very difficult time when war is raging all around. The story revolves around Prudence Carmichael who along with her Father the Reverend Hugh Carmichael and her mother Marjorie have moved from a quiet village to the more busier area of Stepney in East London where Rev Carmichael has taken up a new position. It's a big change for the whole family. I loved the characters in this book, even those that weren't so nice , the author has brought them all to life in an excellent way . This book had lots of ups and downs and as the story developed I was so engrossed I didn't want it to end. It's very obvious as you read this book how much work the author has put into her research on the historical facts of this book which is something I really admire in books like this . An excellent well written and interesting read and I cant wait to read the next book in this new series
May 12, 2023
I love historical fiction and after enjoying her previous Ration Book Series, I was so excited to read this and it did not disappoint.
I love the storyline of the book and following Prue's life, as she not only moves to a new area during the war, but also adheres to her mother's controlling ways. The slow burn romance between her & Jack was so nice to read and I loved the ending for them.
Some of the characters were really horrible, particularly Mrs Carmichael and Father David and I really hated how they treated Prue towards the end.
The writing of the book was so easy to read and you could just imagine yourself there, listening to the trains on the railways amidst the debris and dust of the bombing. You can always tell that Jean really researches the era she is writing about and allows us an insight into how things must have been for them.
I would love a sequel to this book and to find out what happens next for Prue & Jack.
I love the storyline of the book and following Prue's life, as she not only moves to a new area during the war, but also adheres to her mother's controlling ways. The slow burn romance between her & Jack was so nice to read and I loved the ending for them.
Some of the characters were really horrible, particularly Mrs Carmichael and Father David and I really hated how they treated Prue towards the end.
The writing of the book was so easy to read and you could just imagine yourself there, listening to the trains on the railways amidst the debris and dust of the bombing. You can always tell that Jean really researches the era she is writing about and allows us an insight into how things must have been for them.
I would love a sequel to this book and to find out what happens next for Prue & Jack.
May 4, 2023
Set during the Second World War, this is the story based around the life of the vicars daughter, Prue. I was charmed by Prue and the people who she came into contact with. People who, without the war, she would never have met. She's quite a strong woman who isn't afraid to do her bit. I loved her 'get on with it' attitude from working on the railways to organising a bomb shelter in the space under the church. I enjoyed her slow burn 'will they won't they' moments with Jack.
With lots of different factual storylines weaving around the chapters, I was impressed with the level of research. There is a storyline involving treason, I won't go into much detail, but I was so shocked about this. I ended up down a Google rabbit hole finding out more about this.
I loved this book from cover to cover, and I didn't want it to end.
With lots of different factual storylines weaving around the chapters, I was impressed with the level of research. There is a storyline involving treason, I won't go into much detail, but I was so shocked about this. I ended up down a Google rabbit hole finding out more about this.
I loved this book from cover to cover, and I didn't want it to end.
May 5, 2023
I always love picking up a historical fiction read by the incredibly talented Jean Fullerton. In this new saga we join Prue and her newly relocated family, who have joined the parish with her Dad as the new reverend.
Once again as we step into East London we learn more about roles women took over during the war including the cleaning of train carriages as Prue throws herself into a role as her contribution to the war effort.
I loved getting to know Prue and her family and learning more about her character and her inner resolve and strength.
From the offset she has an amazing attitude and is determined to get her head down and get stuck in, despite her background.
I can't wait to keep reading more about this wonderful family and the other characters we've had the pleasure of getting to know.
Once again as we step into East London we learn more about roles women took over during the war including the cleaning of train carriages as Prue throws herself into a role as her contribution to the war effort.
I loved getting to know Prue and her family and learning more about her character and her inner resolve and strength.
From the offset she has an amazing attitude and is determined to get her head down and get stuck in, despite her background.
I can't wait to keep reading more about this wonderful family and the other characters we've had the pleasure of getting to know.
May 4, 2023
Prue and her family arrive in Stepney and Prue finds herself a job and soon she becomes attracted to train engineer Jack. With the war raging there is plenty to keep Prue busy and she soon has more than one admirer. I adored Prue she is a strong, kind and hardworking character unlike her mother who is very self centred. The plot is well written and describes the many various tasks that are taken on during the war. The author has put in a lot of research and it shows. I love when I am reading a book and can feel myself right there in the middle of the story and this book does just that I could literally hear the bombs dropping and smell the smoke . The plot is well paced out and the last few chapters really pick up and fly. Historical fiction lovers will rejoice in this book as I did.
May 8, 2023
Prue and her family arrive in Stepney and Prue finds herself a job and soon she becomes attracted to train engineer Jack. With the war raging there is plenty to keep Prue busy and she soon has more than one admirer. I adored Prue she is a strong, kind and hardworking character unlike her mother who is very self centred. The plot is well written and describes the many various tasks that are taken on during the war. The author has put in a lot of research and it shows. I love when I am reading a book and can feel myself right there in the middle of the story and this book does just that I could literally hear the bombs dropping and smell the smoke . The plot is well paced out and the last few chapters really pick up and fly. Historical fiction lovers will rejoice in this book as I did.
October 18, 2023
What a wonderful book to start a series it certainly is a book that gives you everything.
Prue moves with her parents to London as her Father is Reverend and has moved to a Church from a quiet parish. Prue seems to be a caring woman and helps the community. She ends up working at the train depot starting off cleaning trains, this is where she meets Jack and they become friends.
I found the book very interesting seeing how the woman coped with working for the train company. I enjoyed the characters and thought there was a mix of personality.
I would recommend it and look forward to reading the next book.
Prue moves with her parents to London as her Father is Reverend and has moved to a Church from a quiet parish. Prue seems to be a caring woman and helps the community. She ends up working at the train depot starting off cleaning trains, this is where she meets Jack and they become friends.
I found the book very interesting seeing how the woman coped with working for the train company. I enjoyed the characters and thought there was a mix of personality.
I would recommend it and look forward to reading the next book.
May 9, 2023
I have been a huge fan of Jean Fullerton's work for YEARS and was eagerly looking forward to what I hope will be the first book in a brand new series! There are so many fabulous aspects to love about this story, from the varied and vast cast of wonderful characters to the backdrop of WWII and a Stepney shunting yard. However, as always, with Jean's books comes an unforgettable and (quite frankly) ridiculously delicious hero in the form of Jack Quinn,
His growing romance with heroine Prue Carmichael alone makes this book worth reading, but everything else about the story is moving, funny, warm and unforgettable - pick up your copy today! Highly recommended...
His growing romance with heroine Prue Carmichael alone makes this book worth reading, but everything else about the story is moving, funny, warm and unforgettable - pick up your copy today! Highly recommended...
April 23, 2023
How fantastic to be embarking on a new series from Jean Fullerton whose books I always love. Meeting new characters and finding out what life is going to throw at them is always a joy. As ever, the author's wartime research is thorough yet unobtrusive. She knows her stuff! She writes good baddies too! The awful Gladys and the smarmy Father David did their best to keep Jack and Prue apart, but love always wins. A really enjoyable story, and hopefully with many more to come.
April 30, 2023
Regular readers of my reviews will know how much I enjoyed Jean’s Ration Book series over the past 3 years and I recently enjoyed reading Jean’s biography, A Child of The East End. You can read my review here: https://mentoringmumof2bookreviews.ho...
I enjoyed meeting the Carmichael family as they moved to Stepney when Prue’s father took over a new parish. I love how Jean creates characters who you quickly find yourself caring about and brings the wartime era to life.
Prue finds herself a job to help the war, and meets someone who helped her when she first moved in, Jack. Whilst Prue and Jack slowly get to know each other, Prue finds herself helping refugees and desperately seeking information about her brother who is missing in action.
I’m pleased to see that this is the start of a series because I need to know what happens next to the Carmichael family. Happy to recommend this well written and researched book from one of my favourite authors.
I enjoyed meeting the Carmichael family as they moved to Stepney when Prue’s father took over a new parish. I love how Jean creates characters who you quickly find yourself caring about and brings the wartime era to life.
Prue finds herself a job to help the war, and meets someone who helped her when she first moved in, Jack. Whilst Prue and Jack slowly get to know each other, Prue finds herself helping refugees and desperately seeking information about her brother who is missing in action.
I’m pleased to see that this is the start of a series because I need to know what happens next to the Carmichael family. Happy to recommend this well written and researched book from one of my favourite authors.
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