1940, London
When Cordelia accepts the post of head librarian in Silver Town Library, her mother is more than a little disapproving. The East End has high levels of poverty and illiteracy, and her mother says it’s no place for a woman of her status.
But Cordelia is determined to make a difference in these times of strife, and along with her colleagues, Jane and Mavis, she begins to help the local community, making sure everyone knows what the library can offer them.
And maybe even a romance will blossom, giving Cordelia the strength to make it through the chaos and destruction that constantly threatens their livelihood.
Against a background of war, air raids and rationing, it becomes clear the library is more than a building filled with books – it is the beating heart of a community refusing to be torn apart.
Kindle Edition
250 pages
Published 27th November 2023
(Boldwood Books)
Warning: the topics of domestic violence and rape is briefly discussed. If you or someone you know has been in a similar situation please seek professional help and support A.S.A.P.
First Impression
The Library Girls of the East End is set in the 3rd person with the alternate viewpoints of Cordelia Carmichael, Mavis Kent and Jane Richards.
The reader is introduced to the action straight away by Cordelia in London England, 1940. After sharing the news of her new job with her mother, Cordelia listens as she tries to discourage her, as her mother sadly lacked compassion for the poor people in the village…
I am looking forward to reading The Library Girls of the East End and can’t wait to find out what happens next!
The Library Girls of the East End is a detailed fast paced story, with a slowly revealed plot, through out the year 1940.
McBride has clearly outlined the differences of society, customs and lifestyles within the higher and lower classes. McBride briefly mentions the Holocaust, Jewish immigrants, blackouts, raids, the blitz, well as the restrictions of WW2 to increasing the authentic feel of the plot. The writing style is easy to follow with titled chapters that give hints about what will be happening with the chapters. There is a good mixture of description and dialogue.
The character development of The Library Girls of the East End gives the reader a brief background about the different characters. The characters are relatable and realistic with their own personalities and mannerisms.
Cordelia has a wealthy background. She decided from a young age that she didn’t want to be a carbon copy of her mother, wanting to work with the local people where she can make a difference. Her job as head librarian at Silver town Library provides the perfect challenge…she hopes to implement changes for the best…
Mavis is a straightforward somewhat stubborn person, who dislikes change of any kind. Her only son, Ken is in army… he has a temper and tends to lash out at Mavis. She acts very motherly towards others not standing by when they are in need of help…
Timid Jane, married and mother to a young daughter, has little option than to live with her disapproving and demanding mother after her husband, George joins the army. Whilst at work she has to hide her marriage as married women not allowed to work in libraries…
Overall I feel that The Library Girls of the East End has provided an interesting storyline about the destruction and mayhem of war. There is a strong sense of community as everyone helps each other in their hour of need. My heart really goes out to Jane, whose story is shared more in the second half of the plot.
I would suggest reading The Library Girls of the East End to people who enjoy reading historical fiction, women’s fiction and sagas based around WW2, as it is an emotional character driven story about hardships, romance and friendship…
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