In The Dressmakers of London, two sisters, Isabelle and Sylvia, inherit their mother’s dress shop, Mrs. Shelton’s Fashions. The sisters have always had a rocky relationship, worsened when Sylvia married a rich man and left Isabelle behind. As World War II hits and the shop struggles financially, the sisters must put aside their differences to save the business and their future. The book balances the WWII backdrop with the personal story of the sisters, making it both engaging and memorable.

I loved this book because while there is the theme of WWII, it isn't overpowering. I loved the storyline and each of the two independent and stubborn sisters.

Thank you to NetGalley, Gallery Books, and Julia Kelly for the opportunity to read The Dressmakers of London!

I'm a big Julia Kelly fan -- I love her historical fiction set in England and have read many of her books. I had a hard time with this one though -- some good history but a little too much (needless IMHO) drama. It was clear how the story was going to go but I felt there was too much unnecessary angst put in and I it made me dislike the characters too much to complete. I'm holding out hope for the next Kelly offering which I hope I will like more.

Julia Kelly's The Dressmakers of London is a poignant exploration of sisterhood, legacy, and resilience set in World War II London. The story follows Isabelle and Sylvia Shelton, estranged sisters who unexpectedly inherit their mother's dress shop. While Isabelle finds solace in the shop's familiar routines, Sylvia has long distanced herself, marrying a wealthy doctor much to Isabelle’s disdain. The novel is both a heartwarming and heartbreaking journey of reconciliation, as the sisters exchange letters that gradually heal old wounds and uncover new possibilities. This beautifully written story is rich in historical detail and emotional depth, while capturing the essence of wartime London and the enduring power of family bonds.