Books matching: post wwii london
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- #1
Save:In post-WW2 London, two women, Gwendolyn Bainbridge and Iris Sparks, join forces to start a matrimonial agency called The Right Sort Marriage Bureau. When one of their clients is murdered, and the man they matched her with is accused, the duo sets out to prove his innocence and find the real culprit. The book introduces well-rounded characters, Gwen and Stokes, who are distinct and likable protagonists with intriguing backstories. The plot is clever, unpredictable, and mixes danger and charm in a post-war British mystery setting.
The writing style of 'The Right Sort of Man' is described as witty, intelligent, and engaging. The banter between the main characters, Iris and Gwen, adds charm to the story. The book captures the essence of post-WW2 London accurately, depicting a city still recovering from the war with rationing, bombed-out buildings, and a mix of social classes. The mystery is well-crafted, keeping readers engaged with its twists and turns, while the protagonists' dynamic and the setting bring depth to the narrative.
Tillie climbed the stairs from the Bond Street Station out to Davies Street, blinking in the afternoon light. She had directions, but the directions were from Oxford Street, and she didn’t know whethe... 'The Gown: A Novel of the Royal Wedding' by Jennifer Robson is a historical fiction novel that intertwines the lives of three women across generations. Set in post-war London, the story follows Ann and Miriam, embroiderers at the fashion house of Norman Hartnell, as they work on Princess Elizabeth's wedding gown. The narrative seamlessly shifts between the 1940s and present day, where Ann's granddaughter, Heather, embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of her grandmother's past and the creation of the iconic gown.
The book delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the artistry behind creating a royal wedding gown. Through meticulous research and intricate storytelling, Jennifer Robson brings to life the challenges faced by women in post-war Britain, the intricacies of embroidery work, and the enduring impact of historical events on present-day lives. As the characters navigate personal struggles and historical milestones, the novel paints a vivid portrait of strength, creativity, and the enduring power of female bonds.
It was dark when Ann left work at a quarter to six, and darker still when she reached home. Normally she didn’t mind the walk from the station. It was only half a mile, and gave her a chance to clear ...- #3
Save:The Whispering Swarm by Michael Moorcock is a unique blend of autobiography and fantasy fiction that takes the reader on a journey through time and dimensions. The story follows the protagonist, who navigates between mystical realms and the streets of London, encountering adventures, secrets, and a deeper soul. Moorcock weaves memoir with fantasy, offering a doubled view of reality and imagination, while exploring themes of identity, history, and the power of storytelling. The book challenges conventional narratives, mixing reality with magical realism, and providing food for thought in an engaging and thought-provoking manner.
Every day of my life, after all I have learned and the many dangers I have survived, I still reflect on the circumstances which drew me to that part of the City of London I know as ‘Alsacia’, which he... - #4
Save:'The Night Watch' by Sarah Waters is a novel set in post-World War II London, focusing on the interconnected lives of four Londoners - three women and a young man with a troubled past. The book delves into their secrets, relationships, and struggles, moving backwards in time to reveal the events that shaped them during wartime. Waters skillfully portrays the emotional impact of the characters' experiences, particularly highlighting women's relationships and the aftermath of the Blitz.
So this, said Kay to herself, is the sort of person you’ve become: a person whose clocks and wrist-watches have stopped, and who tells the time, instead, by the particular kind of cripple arriving at ... - #5
Save:'Carbonel: The King of the Cats' by Barbara Sleigh is a delightful British children's fantasy originally published in 1955. The story revolves around a good-hearted little girl named Rosemary who purchases a witch's broom and a cat, only to discover that the cat, Carbonel, is a former witch's cat enslaved by a spell. With the help of her friend John, Rosemary embarks on a magical adventure around London to gather the items needed to break the spell and help Carbonel claim his rightful throne. The plot involves elements of high fantasy intertwined with the children's escapades reminiscent of Edith Nesbit's works, making it an engaging and enchanting read for cat lovers and fantasy enthusiasts alike.
The writing style of 'Carbonel: The King of the Cats' is praised for its charm and whimsical nature, with unique and endearing characters like Carbonel, Rosemary, and John. The author skillfully weaves a story filled with humor, action, and heartwarming moments, creating a narrative that stands the test of time and appeals to both children and adults. The book's setting in post-World War II South London adds a nostalgic touch, transporting readers to a more innocent time while showcasing the enduring themes of friendship, magic, and adventure.
Rosemary’s satchel bounced cheerfully up and down on her back as she hopped on and off the pavement of Tottenham Grove. She enjoyed school, except for arithmetic and boiled fish on Fridays. But breaki... - #6
Save:'The Stones of Muncaster Cathedral' by Robert Westall is a collection of two supernatural novellas that captivate readers with their eerie and suspenseful storytelling. The title story follows steeplejack Joe Clarke as he faces malevolent forces while working on the towers of Muncaster Cathedral, evoking a sense of ageless evil and anticipation that keeps readers on edge. The second tale, 'Brangwyn Gardens,' takes readers back to post-World War II London, where a student is haunted by the ghost of a woman left behind on her wedding day. Both stories masterfully blend realism with the supernatural, drawing readers into a world where the past and present collide in chilling ways.
- #7
Save:In the heart of post-war London, 'An Episode of Sparrows' unravels a tale of a small girl named Lovejoy Mason who, after finding a packet of seeds, becomes enamored with the idea of gardening. Building a secret garden in a bombed-out church, Lovejoy inadvertently transforms the lives of those around her, from hardened gang members to compassionate adults. The story delves into themes of redemption, community, and the innocence of childhood, all set against the backdrop of a gritty urban landscape. The narrative style, reminiscent of classic children's literature, weaves together the perspectives of various characters, offering a poignant and lyrical portrayal of life in London in the 1950s.
- #8
Save:'To Sir, With Love' by E.R. Braithwaite is a poignant account of a black man's struggle to find employment in post-WWII London. The book delves into the challenges faced by the author, Rick Braithwaite, as he navigates through a society rife with racial prejudice. Despite the acceptance he once experienced as a black soldier, Braithwaite is confronted with discrimination and barriers in his quest for a job. Eventually, he stumbles upon a teaching position at a school in inner-city London, where he employs innovative tactics to connect with his students and instill in them values of respect and self-worth.
Braithwaite's writing style in 'To Sir, With Love' is described as elegant, powerful, and emotionally expressive. The narrative unfolds in a compelling manner, capturing the essence of Braithwaite's experiences and the transformative impact he has on the lives of his students. Through his storytelling, Braithwaite not only sheds light on the societal challenges of his time but also emphasizes the importance of empathy, education, and mutual respect in fostering positive change.
THE CROWDED RED DOUBLE-DECKERBUS inched its way through the snarl of traffic in Aldgate. It was almost as if it was reluctant to get rid of the overload of noisy, earthy charwomen it had collected on ... - #9
Save:In a post-apocalyptic London in 1948, after a deadly disease unleashed by Hitler wipes out most of the population, a few survivors, including American airman Hoke, struggle to stay alive amidst the ruins of the city. Hoke finds himself hunted by a group of dying Nazis known as the Blackshirts, who are desperate to obtain his blood for their survival. The novel follows Hoke's tense journey as he navigates the dangerous streets of London, encountering allies and enemies along the way. The writing style of the book is fast-paced, with cliff-hanger chapter endings, surprise plot twists, and moments of tension that keep the reader engaged throughout the story.
Despite its flaws, such as repetitive descriptions and underdeveloped characters, ''48'' by James Herbert stands out for its originality in the post-apocalyptic genre, offering a thrilling and suspenseful narrative set in an alternate history where the Allies lost World War II. The book explores themes of survival, conflict, and madness, creating a dark and atmospheric portrayal of a devastated London and the struggle for existence in a world plagued by death and decay.
I pushed the quilt I’d borrowed off my chest and an empty beer bottle rolled across the dusty carpet when my booted foot (I’d learned to sleep with my boots on) knocked it over. The glass made a dull ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series David Ash ) - #10
Save:Trust Me by Lesley Pearse is a compelling and heart-wrenching tale that follows the lives of two sisters who were betrayed after tragic circumstances left them apparently orphaned. The story is set in post-war London and vividly depicts the sisters' journey from a reasonable life to the harsh realities of an unfriendly Catholic Orphanage and a new life in Australia. The narrative delves into the atrocious history of children being sent to Australia and the struggles they faced, including child cruelty, molestation, sacrifices, and the impact of mistreatment on their lives.
The book showcases excellent character development and a gripping plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Through the author's storytelling, readers are immersed in a world filled with both good and evil characters, depicting the harsh realities faced by the sisters as they navigate through their traumatic experiences in orphanages and the challenges of Australian life.
