Store at War

In 1941, Lily Collins starts work in Marlows department store, learning the ropes from her boss Miss Frobisher and fellow junior Gladys. Her friendship with young salesman Jim draws her into a swirl of secrets, and with the war progressing to crisis point, Cedric Marlow and his staff must battle nightly bombings and the absence of loved ones to keep going. A Store at War weaves together a strong sense of community with a vivid evocation of a time when every man, woman, and child was doing their bit.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2019
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

In the bustling city of Birmingham, amidst the echoes of air raid sirens, Lily Collins embarks on a new chapter of her life as she begins her work at the esteemed Midlands department store, Marlows. Under the guidance of her sophisticated boss, Miss Frobisher, and alongside the timid junior, Gladys, Lily quickly adapts to the dynamic environment. However, it is her friendship with the young salesman, Jim, that leads her into a world of secrets and intrigue. As the war escalates, the store faces nightly bombings and the devastating absence of loved ones, testing the resilience of its staff, including Cedric Marlow, the dedicated manager.

A Store at War is a captivating tale that seamlessly weaves together a strong sense of community with a vivid portrayal of a time when every man, woman, and child was united in their efforts to overcome the challenges of war. Author Katie Fforde describes the book as "cheerful and uplifting," and it has received high praise from fellow authors such as Anna Jacobs, who calls it "highly recommended."

Through the characters of Lily, Jim, Miss Frobisher, and Cedric, the book delves into the lives of ordinary people who find themselves caught up in the tumultuous events of World War II. It explores the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of the people as they navigate the darkest days of the conflict. The book also sheds light on the social and cultural changes that occurred during this period, as the war brought people together in unexpected ways and challenged their preconceptions and beliefs.

One of the standout aspects of A Store at War is its ability to evoke a sense of place and time. The author vividly describes the bustling streets of Birmingham, the sounds of the air raid sirens, and the emotions of the people as they face the trials and tribulations of war. The characters are well-developed, and the reader can easily empathize with their struggles and triumphs.

Another notable aspect of the book is its portrayal of the community spirit that emerged during the war. The store becomes a hub of activity, with its staff working tirelessly to ensure that the needs of the customers are met, even in the face of adversity. The employees form close bonds, and their collective determination to keep the store running is a testament to the strength of human resilience.

A Store at War is a captivating and heartwarming story that offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during a period of extraordinary hardship. It is a testament to the power of hope, friendship, and community in the face of adversity. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a compelling and uplifting read, this book is sure to captivate your attention and leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 193 x 136 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008298234