We join Alice Turner and her extended family in Liverpool as the second world war begins and calls up her new husband, Terry. The community spirit is admirable, and one feels part of the family as they all cope with the ups and downs during those long war years. The food shortages, the hardship and the loss of loved ones.
"So many lost, before their lives began properly."
Alice is forced to grow up quickly and all the young people around her as they take on huge responsibilities of managing to make money go around, finding enough provisions to feed their families and coping with their children and evacuation. Alice works at Rootes Munition factory making the Halifax bombers. It's dangerous work, but they all pitch in to make the best of things. It's a cosy, chatty read with warmth, poignancy and inevitable heartbreak. I enjoyed the references to the music of the era which has survived the decades. I still love Glen Miller's "Moonlight Serenade" after watching the film "The Glen Miller Story" many moons ago and "The White Cliffs of Dover" is still loved and popular. It brings tears to my eyes. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.

I fell in love with this story from the get go, the characters, the town, the friendships and families. It was perfect. I am a huge fan of historical fiction and this was just what I needed! Heartwarming, heartbreaking, emotional and filled with plenty of hope.

A real page turner, fast paced, easy to read, addictive and brilliant! Will take the reader right back in time. Had me going ahhh and oh no everytime the alarm went off at the most inappropriate of moments throughout the story. A story that will stay in my heart. Highly recommend. A well deserved five stars. I cannot wait to read more by this author in the future, a new favourite author I think!

The Mersey trilogy established Pam Howes as a bright new voice in the women's historical fiction genre and also as one of my favourite authors. Pam writes vividly of life for the women, families and friends left at home during World War Two whilst their men are away fighting against the maniac that was Hitler. The main theme of this new Factory Girls series is that the struggles of war will see friendships strengthen and this couldn't be more accurate.

In The Factory Girls of Lark Lane we are introduced to another strong, resilient and courageous young woman called Alice Turner. Alice is the stalwart of this story and as we journey with her through her experiences of the war and numerous life altering events the reader finds themselves once again hooked just as much as I had been with Dora's story in the previous series. At times, I feel war time family saga series tend to get a bit repetitive in their descriptions of life at home. Thankfully this wasn't the case here as the author manages to keep everything fresh and interesting and the fact I am still discovering new information about the war and how people coped on a daily basis is testament to the wonderful writing and in depth research undertaken by the author.

Alice works with her best friend Millie Markham in Rootes munitions factory in Liverpool. They work in the riveting section making the framework of wings for the planes that will go on to bomb the enemy. Their work is vital for the war effort and they take great pride in it. Alice likes to keep her business to herself but within a factory setting and on the street where she lives everyone knows everybody else’s business. This may seem overbearing to some people but I suppose this could be classed as being only a good thing as in times of need people will know when to step in and offer a helping hand. When we are first introduced to Alice she is bubbling with excitement as she is just about to marry her sweetheart Terry. They have one day before he has to return to training and then god knows how long before she will see him again as he could be shipped away to any place. Even an air raid warning won't stop them enjoying their big day.

We all know life was more than a struggle for people during the war and how it presented so many challenges and obstacles but to always have that threat of the air raid siren blaring out must have had people on edge twenty four seven. The calm, peaceful lives they led pre-war must have been but a distant memory replaced by worry, fear and anxiety. Their normal routine disrupted for six long years and beyond and those they loved the most taken away for them to fight for their country. A life without any luxuries or treats but entertainment and excitement was created wherever and whenever possible even b the tightest if means. Rationing became the norm but Alice proved to be resourceful and I loved how she was always willing to go that extra mile for her family which only highlighted the love and dedication she had for them. She always had a long term goal in her mind that drove her on. She wanted Terry to come back to some sort sort of security and family unit but with so much devastation, loss and upheaval surrounding them could this be at all possible?

Alice and Millie had a united friendship whose bonds were only strengthened through all the ups and downs they go through. I loved how they were there for each other every step of the way even if circumstances and opportunities did take them away for each other at some points. No matter how long the separation they would always reunite. Once you have that deep connection that goes beyond friendship it's hard to break it no matter the mountains placed in your way. Although I did laugh at Millie's attempts to join the Land Army! The only very minor fault that I found with this story, and it's more just a personal opinion rather than any error with the writing, is that I wanted to know more about Millie. I know this was Alice's story to tell but I would have liked to have read a few chapters from Millie's perspective, I wonder will the next book focus on Millie or rather extend and continue Alice's story?

The person who definitely held the spotlight throughout the story was undoubtedly Alice. As Terry leaves after their wedding night it is up to her to continue on. She was the one who had to keep her family going. Her father had died, her mother was very vulnerable and the place where she had worked had closed down. Older brother Rodney was away fighting in France and younger brother Brian had been evacuated to North Wales. Alice couldn't sit down and just let things crumble around her, there had to have been something for Terry and Rodney to return too. That's if they survived the horrors they were experiencing. Alice kept the show running and worked herself to the bone. She proved time and time again how responsible she was and above all else the word loyalty really sums up her character. Keeping enough food on the table, staying alive and one step of the enemy became common place and I felt she dealt with all the curve balls that life threw at her with dignity, respect and confidence. She had her friends and neighbours backs and they did the same for her. The community spirit and camaraderie was evident on the factory floor and this was extended outside of working hours. People didn't want to see friends and family suffer unnecessarily and they all roped in together when needed.

Alice came down to earth with a bang once Terry left and as she discovers something surprising but which will lead to happiness she is tested to the max. Terry's mother, Mrs.Lomax, played a pivotal supportive role throughout the story and Alice would have been lost without her as her own mother had her own issues to deal with. Quite often the mother-in-law in women's fictions books plays the baddie role, the woman we all despise and basically just want rid of so I was thrilled to see Mrs. Lomax hadn't been assigned that form of character. I wouldn't say it was all smooth sailing between herself and Alice but still I thought she really stepped up to the plate when Alice needed help. She wasn't going to let her daughter-in-law suffer when her son was away. She was kind, caring and offered so much help that she became like a surrogate mother to her and it shows during the times of war people put aside any issues or little resentments they might feel and always did what was best for one another. After all the war both on home and foreign soil brought countless highs and lows but this story shows how all women were proud of their war work either at home or in factories or on the land as they know they are doing their bit to prevent one man getting his ultimate way.

The most touching aspect of the story was in relation to Edith, Alice's mother. It was written with such sensitivity and tact and was just utterly heartbreaking. I don't know Alice kept going but she did and I thought if Terry could see her at home he would have been so very proud of her. The Factory Girls of Lark Lane was a brilliant introduction to this new series from Pam Howes. The fact I read in one afternoon shows how much I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It's true to life of the time and packed full of characters you wish nothing but a happy outcome for. Creating capable, steady irrepressible female characters is Pam Howes' forte. Alice is a stand out character whose story will transport you back in time to a period where a positive outlook and clinging to hope became the factors that got people through the war. Now if Pam Howes could just hurry up and write book two as I am very eager to return to Liverpool and the factory girls to see what happens next.

This is the first book I have read by Pam Howes and I absolutely loved it!

I have to admit I got so carried away with the story that I completely forgot I was supposed to be writing a review on it, that's a first for me!

The book is set in 1940s, Liverpool, whilst the men were away fighting for their country the women rolled their sleeves up, took a deep breath and did what needed to be done.

I love a book that features strong women and the female characters were just that. Alice had married her sweetheart Terry whilst he was on a forty-eight-hour pass from the army. She paid the bills by working in a munitions factory, making parts for Halifax Bombers. Food was rationed, the air raids were coming thick and fast and no one knew what the future held.

Alice could always rely on best friend Millie to be by her side through good times and bad. The story is about resilience, strength, and companionship, it grips you from the first page and transports you to a time of unimaginable hardship, and Alice and Millie become real, no longer characters in a book. You feel their fear, their heartbreak, and their happiness.

If you love wartime sagas The Factory Girls of Lark Lane comes highly recommended, so clear your diaries and stock up on tissues, you are in for a real treat!

4.5 Stars

Very good friends Alice and Millie live in 1940s Liverpool during War World II. They have both just sent their men off to the war. Millie is in love with boyfriend Alan, but has a friend Jimmy who is also off to war that she write letters to. It is Alice, however, that is more of the focus in this story. Her husband went back to the barracks the day after their wedding. Alice is now expecting their child, while worrying for her husband's safety. Millions of men were being killed in the horrendous war, and there was no guarantee that their loved ones would return home.

During wartime, Alice and Millie, work at a munitions factory, along with several friends, and they remained quite close. Alice has issues wither her Mam and her brother, along with the difficulties of raising a young daughter alone. It is a time of deep worry and stress for all involved.

As I read this book, I was drawn into the emotions of that difficult time. For example, I had never actually heard of "evacuee children". I was disheartened to hear of things being so horrible that it wasn't even safe for most children to remain with their mothers during such difficult times. There were a lot of factors that drew me to this book, one is that the author had a real capture on WWII Liverpool and the daily bombing raids that went on then. Imagine having to always carry a gas mask with you. How terrifying!

I read 90% of this book in one sitting. I only put it down because I actually fell asleep, otherwise I would have finished it all at once. The Factory Girls of Lark Lane is utterly captivating, albeit very sad at times. Nevertheless, this was a truly heartwarming read of friendship, love and hope. I am thrilled that I read this wonderful book and look forward to reading more from Pam Howes.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

Absolutely loved this book, drew me right in and I devoured it in one sitting, I cannot wait for the next in the series, in the meantime away to look for more by this author.

Oh what a corker of a start to an extremely promising new series! I was in my element with 'The Factory Girls of Lark Lane'. An emotional element, but still in my element.

Set in 1940's Liverpool, 'The Factory Girls of Lark Lane' tells the story of Alice Turner's life during the war. Whilst Alice is lucky that she gets to work with her best friend, Millie, she cannot help but feel bereft when the love of her life is sent back to the frontline after their wedding. What Alice doesn't realise, however, is that her new husband leaving is the least of her concerns. To be honest, I underestimated just how much wartime novels get under my skin, but Pam Howes has done herself and her characters justice with her fantastic storytelling.

As I said at the beginning, I did find this book rather emotional. Obviously I won't state exactly what made me emotional, but for those of you who have read the book already, all I will say is...Brian. If you haven't read the book yet and are no curiosity by the name 'Brian', I would advise you to grab this book pronto so that you can find out. Tissues ready though, okay?

'The Factory Girls of Lark Lane' has its sights predominately set on Alice Turner and her family, yet due to how close-knit the community is, it cannot be helped if you find yourself delving further into some of the other characters lives as well.

Seeing as I have read Pam Howes' previous novels and adored them, I didn't know how she was going to top those fab novels with a new series, however, after reading this one, I am flabbergasted by the fact that she has done just that. 'The Factory Girls of Lark Lane' literally moved me to tears, filled my arms with goosebumps, and made me wish that communities these days were like the communities during the war. Pam Howes doesn't just tell a story by writing down words, she also tells a story by telling it to her readers' hearts and souls.

A truly spell-binding, humble, and utterly poignant first book in a brand new series. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in the series if this one is anything to go by. Historical fiction at its finest, you can always rely on Pam Howes to tick all of the boxes in the saga genre, without a doubt.

A lovely book telling the story of Alice and Millie,of how they worked at Rootes along with friends making the planes needed in the war.Alice and her new husband Terry have only one day together before he is posted abroad and they only have their letters to keep them going.Things change for Alice but with her friends she has to cope just like every one has to. Alice and Millie have a close bond and remain close through the war.I can highly recommend this book well worth 5*.

A moving story about the friendship of two women during WWII. They both work at a munitions factory helping to support the war effort by making shell caps and bombers. You get a glimpse in the lives of the women, small children, that were left behind. Great character building, you really feel like you know them. The book also gives you some insight on dealing with daily bombing raids.
I would recommend this book to all who enjoy historical fiction and stories of friendships.

I loved this book. I am a big fan of Pam Howes work, this book lived up to my expectations!
Can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!

Excellent storyline. Wonderful main characters. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it highly.

Pam Howes is a lovely storyteller. Alice and Millie are best friends and they are struggling to keep their heads and hearts above water in WWII Liverpool. Nothing's easy, not even love, and the two of them have a rough time of it. If you've read WWII Homefront sagas before, you know that the bombs bring death, but that the spirit of the women is strong. This is no exception. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. I enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed the earlier series and I am curious where Howes might take this. For fans of of family sagas and WWII novels.

I have said this before, this is not the usual genre I normally read, but after reading Pam's Liverpool girls books, I couldn't wait to read this one. Pam has a unique way of writing these war time stories. It's almost as if you could have actually been there when reading Pam's books. You really are taken into the story and the surroundings, living the lives of the characters through the words.
Heart warming and heart breaking the lives of families living through WWII.
1940's in Liverpool where families are saying goodbye to their loved ones, families torn apart by war, families that stick together through thick and thin.
Alice and Terry are getting married and while everyone loves a good wedding it can be a difficult thing to do during the war. Getting married and saying goodbye to your now husband the day after must truly be heart breaking. This is what happened to this young couple. Life for Alice as a married woman doesn't start off the way we all imagine a marriage should. With families and friendship Alice has to get on with life, while here husband is away fighting in a war. It's a time when everyone comes together when everyone is going through the same things. It's amazing when you look back just how people managed to get through this time of their lives.
It's safe to say Pam has worked a blinder with this book, have some tissues at the ready and get yourself stuck in. Get lost in those pages just like I did, get taken to another time what could almost feel like another world. This book is written beautifully and is really difficult to put down once you start it.
​The Factory Girls of Lark Lane is a first class read and I certainly can't wait for more from this author.

Based in Liverpool in 1940, we are introduced to Alice Turner and her best friend Millie Markham. They both work in the local munitions factory making the wings for Halifax bombers. Alice is preparing to marry her sweetheart, Terry, whilst he is on a short visit home from the Army. Things are hard for Alice when Terry’s leave is up and he has to return so soon after their marriage. As the war drags on you realise how difficult it is for the women left behind, not just from Liverpool but all around the UK.

I have read this author’s previous trilogy and absolutely loved it, so was really keen to read this one! I wondered whether this book could match up to the previous series I read, and the answer is most definitely YES! Alice is a lovely character and like many other women in her situation she makes the best of a bad situation, dusts herself off and gets on with things. The story begins in 1940, during the height of the air-raids, and continues through to the end of the war. It really brings home how difficult life was during this time and how everything and everyone was affected in some way.

Of course, there’s heartache and sadness, but it’s also a book full of love, friendship, family and a general feeling of ‘pulling together’ as a community. It also shows what part the women left behind played in the war effort by making parts for planes and risking their lives working in ammunitions factories. The author certainly has the knack of writing to make you feel you were right there at that time, in amongst the people of Liverpool during the hardest struggles of their lives.

I loved this book, and I’m assuming it is part of a series! I can’t wait to read the next one and continue Alice’s story. Would highly recommend this book!

A great read about the factory girls of Lark Lane. Alice gets married just as her new husband is sent off to Europe at the start of the war. She finds herself pregnant and worry’s how she’ll cope. Millie her best friend and Freddie her supervisor at work help as do Marlene and her Mum and Mother in law. This book follows the ups and downs of life on the home front during the war for Alice and her friends and family. A fabulous story that I couldn’t put down. I look forward to more Lark Lane adventures hopefully soon.

As I have read and loved Pam Howes previous trilogy and couldn’t wait to read this book The Factory Girls of Lark Lane.
It’s around the time of the second world war. Alice and Millie and are best friends and they both work in Rootes Munitions factory riveting on aircraft wing frames. These are hard times. More so for Alice, for has just been married to Terry one day and then he goes off to war the next and also her brother Rodney. Her other brother Brian is evacuated to Wales. It’s just her and her single mother and mother in law Mrs Lomax. She soon discovers she is pregnant. So while she is able she takes a part time job at the legion to save money for when the baby comes.
This is another beautifully written story set in Liverpool in the time of the Second world war by Pam Howes. The story really depicts the times of hardship, food shortages and lack of money and what women did in the absence of men during the war. If it wasn’t for these women, the outcome of the war may have been very different. But, also the good times, when everyone got together and with what little they had, had a great time. I loved how the author’s storytelling made you feel that you where there with them. This is an unputdownable story that I devoured and didn’t want to end. I will wait in anticipation for her next book.

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book.

This book tells the story of best friends Alice Turner and Millie Markham, who work together at the munitions factory. You can follow along their day-to-day lives and share in their happiness, their sorrows, and their fears that their loved ones might not return from the war. At times the book seemed to plod along, but it was very interesting seeing what the average life was for women back then. I was disappointed in the ending. I felt that it ended too abruptly and I was wanting it to continue on after the men returned home and the adjustments that would occur, but that is left to your imagination. All in all, it is a very good book and one that is definitely worth reading.

Having read and loved Pam Howes last trilogy also set in Liverpool I was super excited to have the opportunity to read her latest trilogy . This first book in set during the Second World war in Liverpool . It’s a story about friendship and the struggles people had to endure during the war , including the loss of loved ones, people being separated from their friends and family, rationing . The author has such a brilliant way of describing the lives of the people of Liverpool during the hard times of the war I actually felt at times I was there with them . An absolutely brilliant start to this trilogy and I would give it more than 5 stars if I could . Can not wait now for book 2

What a brilliant read! I honestly can't wait to read more of Pam Hawes work.
Alice is such a great, well written character. She is finding it difficult being seperated from her new husband with their new born baby, even though she has a lot of help from her mother and mother-in-law.
Alice has a lot of upset and loss in her life, but she is determined to make her life as happy as possible for her and daughter and when her husband returns from war.

Unfortunately, I had a bit of trouble getting into this book. Not sure I would recommend it for that reason. I was not familiar with the author but thought it was worth an attempt.