Wartime with the Cornish Girls

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Pub Date 29 Apr 2021 | Archive Date 01 May 2021

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Description

Pre-order now: the first in the feel-good new Cornish Girls series

1941. The Blitz rages over London.
And even in Cornwall, the war is being fought…

When Violet loses her sister in the Blitz, she must take her nieces to safety in Cornwall. On the coast, she meets carefree chorus girl Eva, who is also running from the dangers of London.

But Porthcurno hides a secret military base, and soon Violet and Eva realise there’s a battle to fight in Cornwall, too.

Together with local Hazel, who works on the base, they must come together to help the war effort. But will their friendship be enough to keep them safe?

The perfect uplifting wartime read for fans of Nancy Revell and Donna Douglas.

‘A fascinating story, beautifully written, with interesting characters I really liked. A most enjoyable read!’ Kitty Neale, Sunday Times bestselling author of A Daughter’s Ruin

‘A warm-hearted story – at times I laughed and at others I held my breath … I loved the characters and I’m delighted it is the first in a series’ Pam Weaver, Sunday Times bestselling author of Goodnight Sweetheart

Pre-order now: the first in the feel-good new Cornish Girls series

1941. The Blitz rages over London.
And even in Cornwall, the war is being fought…

...


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ISBN 9780008400293
PRICE $6.99 (USD)
PAGES 400

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Average rating from 193 members


Featured Reviews

What a lovely story of three young women in wartime,I loved this book as it was focused more around the lives of each woman.Eva,Violet and Hazel become friends and each one has a different home life to each other Hazel is married to a nasty man and is glad he has gone to fight,Violet decided to get her two young neices out of london because of the bombing and Eva after being hurt in an air raid is called to cornwall by her father.I have enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next.5*

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With thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest review
Not read this Author before and hope to do in the future
Anything to do with war and a fabulous setting of Cornwall has to be a great base for any book I can highly recommend this excellent book.

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Wow love a family saga you will love this book. Set in the war and then moving down to Cornwall felt like i was in the story. Brilliant book and cant wait to read some more

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Fantastic book can’t wait for the next book a great family saga. You fell in love with all the characters, written very well and factually..... loved it read in one sitting. Highly recommended

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A great read, wonderful story that sees women thrown together during the war, I loved all the characters and the seamless writing, looking forward to more.

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This book is everything quintessential about wartime blitz historical fiction. Following the lives of three women who end up together in the Cornish town of Porthcurno where a secret military base is running during WW2, they battle with not only the war, but rations, gender stereotypes, abusive husbands and raising nieces after one woman's sister is killed in the blitz. The novel encapsulates everything about the women of the time and how they rolled up their sleeves and made their mark in what was at the time a man's world and their bond that was created. I really enjoyed this book and recommend reading it. #netgalley # wartime with the cornishgirls

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April 1941 in dagenham east London. Violet Hopkins works in the cafe with her mother sheila they are bringing up her two nieces lily and Alice after her sisters death and the father missing in action fighting in WW2. Air raids are coming every night. Aunt Margaret lives on the farm in Cornwall and violet wants her and the girls to go it would be safer and be good to work and help out in the fresh air and she convinces her mother. Set off for the train journey to penzance and met by uncle Stanley they set off to aunt Margaret's. This is going to be hard work but a big adventure for them. I found this an enchanting book to read right through and recommend to all readers. It will bring tears to your eyes, that will touch your heart. Beautiful book. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for the early copy.

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I am assuming that this is the first book of a series, if so perfect for readers of Ellie Deans Cliffehaven books. I like books that evolve into a series as you become involved in the characters and it is fun to see how the story can spring out in many directions and cover lots of areas but still keep the same central characters and area which give a solid base to the books. Set in Cornwall in WW2 we are able to start to get to know the people and how they are linked together. Violet, Hazel and Eva are brought together at a listening station in a rural part of Cornwall, all from different backgrounds all with different stories to tell, but still linked together. the book flowed well and the storylines linked nicely together, I am looking forward to the next book so we can learn more about these wonderful ladies.

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Loved this saga.Picked it up and was swept away from my home into their world.Loved the setting the characters read late into the night.Will be recommending and following this series,#netgalley#avonbooksuk

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker is the first book I am reading by the author.
I was captivated by the first pages.

This is a page turning, attention grabbing book. It deserves a 5 star rating from me. What a great book!


The war was well belted out vividly by the author. My heart was in my mouth as I was reading the words welcoming me to an adventure only in the pages of this book.


I read this book curled up on my bed with a blanket,my sweater and the rain falling outside. What an adventure!


I love Eva,Violet and Hazel roles in this novel. I particularly love Alice, Violet’s niece. She is such a sweet delight.


Reading this book took me to the setting of this novel,Cornwall in Britain. I could imagine how idyllic the little village was described in the plot.


This book is so clean,I can recommend it to anybody interested in Historical sagas.


Oh! You need to watch out for a character called Professor Templeton. What a character he was in this book. I love how fascinating other characters were and I had lots of favourites to choose from in this novel.


I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to more books by the author especially about the Cornish girls.


Theme of friendship was heavily buttressed here in this novel.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Avon Books UK through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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I liked this book.
I like the way it tells more than one person's story.
The way it just ended was a bit disappointing. It just stopped in the middle of a storyline. I turned the page waiting for the next chapter and nothing.
I'm hopping this might mean there will be another one.
It's still a brilliant book looking at other places in the war not just the city's like London, Coventry or Birmingham.

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What a lovely book.
Violet and her neices from London, Hazel and Charlie her son from Cornwall and Eva, the well to do daughter of the colenel are all thrown together in this novel based in Cornwall during the War in 1941. The author has filled the book with love, intrigue, and a bit of mystery.
The characters are full of life and she brought them to life in the pages of the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and will look forward to the next novel she writes.

Thanks to #Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy for an honest review.

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This is my first book by this Author, I’m sure it won’t be the last. Story concentrates on the lives of 3 women who eventually cross paths. I enjoyed the factual side and the way it came across within the story. Most enjoyable, look forward to the follow up.

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A wartime background contained in beautiful countryside gives a warm nostalgic feel to this book.
The plot centres around the beautifully crafted characters and their lives, combining romance and mystery to give the perfect historical read.
A gripping tale which I couldn't put down, containing plenty of the unexpected. A satisfying read, I'll definitely be reading it again

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This did not disappoint I really appreciated being able to read and enjoy this title. A good family saga set in a time of extreme danger and hardship, heartwarming and Betty gives a wonderful description of Cornwall that made me want to re-visit. Quite timely as hopefully our current situation can bring an understanding of how much difficult wartime was. I will look forward to the next installment of The Cornish Girls.

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This is my first book by this author and it reminded me a bit of the tv series The Land Girls.

The story revolves around thee young women, each with a different background and their own voice coming together in in a small town at the coast of Cornwall in 1941. All have their troubles, their hopes and dreams.

It had some sad moment, but it also made me laugh and I loved reading about the lives of women during this time.

I recommend this book

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Really enjoyed this book by Betty Walker, an author I have not read before. Totally engaging story and characters, well written. Looking forward to the next novel

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The story takes place at the beginning of world war 2.
Violet lives in London with her mother who runs a café and her two nieces. Her sister was killed during a bombing and her brother-in-law is missing in action. Fearing air raids Violet and her nieces leave London and go live with her Aunt in Cornwall but things are not going to turn as they expected...
Eva lives also in London a lively and bold young woman who left her uncle with whom she was living to become a dancer.
When the place where she works is hit by a bomb, she finds herself at the hospital and she wake up to find her uncle at her side. She is sent to Porthcurno, South Cornwall where a father Colonel Ryder works in a military base, there she is going to use her knowledge of the Morse and work as a Telegraph operator...
Hazel lives in Porthcornu with her son, her abusive husband has left to fight for his country. She finds a jobs at the military base thanks to one of her old friend who is also still in love with her...

Violet, Eva and Hazel met while working at the military base, each one of them trying to do their best in wartime and deal with the difficulties they face.
I liked reading about this women, they faces their challenges with courage, all these circumstances changed them, making them more mature especially Eva. It is an interesting story,captivating.

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What can I say? I was totally hooked on the first page. I just couldn't put the book down. Kudos to the author for writing a great book. I am eagerly waiting for the next one.

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Great Story about the Cornish villages during the war. Three girls from London escaping the bombing, one young lady who survived the bombs, and a women who's husband is away at way. follow their lives as they find work and friendship in the hardest of times. Great Series.

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With thanks to NetGalley for an early copy in return for an honest review.

This was my first time reading a book by Betty Walker, but I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series. I truly felt transported to Cornwall, England in the early 1940's as I was reading about Hazel, Violet and Eva. There were a couple of unexpected twists in the story and it was fascinating to learn more about the war efforts on the southern coasts of England.

If you, like me, particularly enjoy books, where the setting is an integral character in the story, then you will enjoy Wartime with the Cornish Girls.

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A wonderful war time story.....about Violet, Eva and Hazel. These girls met while working at the military base!
A story about women that face their challenges with courage, all whole having different circumstances that change them...make them grow for the better during life's tough time!! . It is such an interesting story...I could not put it down.~
I highly recommend it.~
4 1/2 STARS

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Wow! When I first went into reading this book I had a very open mind as this is not my usual read however I enjoyed this book so much. The characters were all believable and relatable and I felt very invested I their lives.
I enjoyed the strong female characters and themes of friendship within a wartime setting. The descriptions of Cornwall were so vivid it was such an enjoyable read.
It was such a heartwarming read and I am looking forward to more of this authors work!

Thank you Netgalley for the Arc.

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Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.


This book is a page turner and attention grabber.

It is so well written. I felt like I was on an adventure turning the pages as I read.

I loved the characters of Eva,Violet and Hazel roles and particularly love Alice, Violet’s niece.

I was imagining how idyllic the village would be in Cornwall.

Highly recommend it.

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I enjoyed this historical fiction set in wartime England. The characters were all believable and it was easy to become involved in their lives and tribulations. Although this is the first of a series this did not affect the story and it is fine as a stand alone book. The only negative point is that it felt rushed at the end. This would not put me off recommending it to others to read and I look forward to reading the next book in the series when it is released.

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Well-written and enjoyable read. This book tells the story of three women living in England during WWII in 1941 - Violet, Eva and Hazel. Each is from a different background, but are brought together by the London bombings.

Violet - loving aunt to two orphaned nieces seeks to remove them from London and the ever threat of bombings from the Germans, but quickly realizes that there is danger lurking in Cornwall that may be worse then the bombings.

Eva - independent with a chip on her shoulder that puts her in grave danger (more than once) who learns that it is OK to rely on others and that she doesn't always know best.

Hazel - a country girl with a husband she regrets and a teenage son she cannot understand who begins to believe she is entitled to some happiness.

All come together in Cornwall where the British established a listening station during WWII.

The story begins by providing a brief background on each of the characters and how Eva and Violet end up in Cornwall. The story shifts POV's among each of the main characters. While sometimes this can make a story difficult to read, it made perfect sense here. It really helped me gain the perspective of each of the characters (I actually only had to go a couple of times to see whose POV I reading) and the author did a really nice job changing the tone/language to reflect which POV was being presented. The author also did a decent job of portraying the daily danger those living in England were facing during the bombings.

Readers should be aware that the book ends on a few cliffhangers as this book in a series. However, it also ends in a relatively good place and left me wanting to read more about Violet, Eva and Hazel (who I hope really gets the HEA she deserves).

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker is an excellent historical fiction focusing on events surrounding WWII in England. I truly loved this book from beginning to end.

This book presented strong female characters from slightly different troubled paths that all ended up being brought together in Cornwall during times of uncertainty and war. These women: Violet, Hazel, and Eva come together and through strong drives, friendships with each other, and perseverance, succeed despite surmounting odds and obstacles.

It was so heartwarming to see such compassion, loyalty, love, and enduring friendships throughout this book. I loved the female character cast, their interactions with one another, and the paths that they then take. I enjoyed reading about their experiences, growths, and triumphs.

It was truly a great read. I loved this book, and it has most definitely made me a fan of this author, and I look forward to finding and reading additional works from her now and in the future.

5/5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am submitting my review to my GR account immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls
by Betty Walker

Absolutely loved this book from the first page to the last. I loved the characters and the whole story I was sad when it ended. I am so looking forward to the next book by this author already! I would highly recommend to family and friends looking for a good read.
Thankyou to both the author and netgalley for the opportunity to ready this book.

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I enjoyed reading this book. The story was interesting and the characters were all different. They were all sent to Cornwall to get away from the bombing in London. They all got together for different reasons and it was nice to see how they interacted and helped each other. This was an easy book to read and I recommend that you read this book.

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I really enjoyed this book. Each of the girls was very unique, but the way their lives intertwined felt real.

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I really enjoyed this story of three women and their roll during WWII in a small Cornish town! I'd love to read more about the characters and hope there are more books to this series! Violet from the East End, Hazel a local woman and Eva the daughter of the colonel meet and plan a dance for the soldiers in their area. They couldn't be different but each is eager to find their place in the world and serve their country.

I wish there was more to the book, it did seem a bit short but what was there was very enjoyable. The book has light and dark moments and characters that are well developed with personalities that shine through. It could easily be made into a series and I hope to hear more of Eva and Violet's characters in particular.

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the opportunity to read this ARC!

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The ARC of this book was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, from beginning to end! I've read plenty of books that fall into the wartime category but this one was a standout from the start. The characters within this book are fun to read about and I found myself rooting for their happiness, I became quickly emotional invested in them. A few side characters felt a tad two dimensional, but the main characters were developed enough that I could look past this. The story progresses at a steady pace, without dragging or feeling as if it needed a boost. Honestly, all in all this was wonderfully heartwarming and I found myself already wanting to read the sequel, no doubts I'll be picking it up as soon as it's available!

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls is about three different women from different walks of life finding themselves together in Cornwall during the War, becoming friends, and going through life experiences. As i was reading this book i could picture it as a beautiful BBC show. It was an easy read, very engaging, i loved all the characters and wished the best for them all.

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An interesting novel about a secret communication military outpost in Cornwall, England during WW2. Three women from various backgrounds meet and form relationships. Violet loses her sister whose husband is missing in action and must care for her nieces. She takes them to her aunt and uncle’s house in Cornwall but have to leave when the uncle sexually assaults one of the girls. She meets Hazel who helps them obtain employment at the outpost. Eva is a carefree chorus girl who is injured in the Blitz of London and must go to the coast to be with her father the commander of the outpost. The girls all have their problems and adjustment which are interwoven. This is obviously the beginning of a series.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker l loved this book from the start to finish. page to the last.
The characters focused on 3 very different women from totally different backgrounds. It was a story of friendship and hope. I would highly recommend to anyone who is interested in Cornwall and WW2.
Thankyou to both the author and netgalley for the opportunity to ready

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A wonderful and engaging wartime saga. The story focuses on the lives of 3 women of very different backgrounds, who meet in the Cornish town of Porthcurno and work together at a secret WW2 base.
From tragedy to intrigue, friendship and romance, the threads of the female characters lives weave together to form a beautiful tale, which highlights the extraordinary resilience and demonstrated by women during the war.

I am looking forward to reading the next instalment!

Thanks to author Betty Walker and #Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy for an honest review.

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Great start to a new series!!!! This book introduces us to three women drawn together during WWII. England is under attack and for different reasons they all end up at a seaside town. Here underground the war is fought by code breakers. This is where the story begins. Romance and intrigue ensues.

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Porthcurno, Cornwall hold a well camouflaged, top secret, British military base near the sea during WWII. Here three very different women meet, brought together by war. Some escaping the night bombings in London, another, a local woman. These women bond together to find work and love.
I’m fascinated with WWII history and Britain battled the longest against Nazi Germany. Many not as well known facts are fractionating to learn about.

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Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher. How I enjoy a good old fashion story with great friendships and how they all overcome the hardships. Great read

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I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I’m very glad that I had the opportunity to read Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker. I’m not certain if I would have chosen this book without NetGalley’s recommendation. While the title may be simple and generic, the actual content of the novel is absolutely wonderful.

The book follows three young women who all happen to make their way to the same British military base in Porthcurno, Cornwall during WWII. Eva has been summoned to Eastern House by her father, Colonel Ryder, after a near death experience during an air raid in London. Violet, along with her nieces Lily and Alice, are seeking safety from their home in the East End during the Blitz as well as from rumors of their family being spies due to their German relations. Hazel has obtained employment at Eastern House in order to provide extra income to support herself and her son Charlie while her abusive husband is fighting at the front.

Each woman has her own personal issues and burdens to carry. However, they all find a way to work through their predicaments in order to persevere through the war. This story exemplifies how even in the toughest of times, there is some good and happiness that can be achieved.

Although this book is a work of historical fiction, it also includes love, loss, and even a bit of espionage. I felt that the amount of time dedicated to each woman’s perspective was appropriate and moved the plot along at a satisfactory pace. As the story developed, Eva, Violet, and Hazel’s narratives were organically weaved together, allowing for their friendships to evolve. In doing so, I was drawn in more and more with each chapter, in great anticipation of the next development. Overall, I enjoyed the story and getting to know all of the characters. I’m glad that their adventures will continue and cannot wait to read Christmas with the Cornish Girls.

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Brilliant!! When is the next installment I cannot wait. Good, solid characters tell this story of intrigue. I love Hazel and Violet and really hope they get their happy ever after. Eva is a wild child but honest and loyal and when she falls for the professor I felt something wasn't quite right. All the girls are brought together in Cornwall after leaving London during the War, and become friends with Hazel who is local and helps find them work. A gritty tale of love and loss in difficult times.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker is the first book I am reading by the author..

The ARC of this book was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley.

Reminded me a lot of Ellie Deans Cliffehaven books, which i was a HUGE fan off. I hope this is first book in a series. Story follows a group of wartime girls who for various reasons find themselves in Cornwall during WW2. Their hopes, their dreams and their fears make for a great read.

Cant wait to read more.

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I loved this book about women during WWII in England. The author knows how to write realistic, likable characters. I plan to see if Betty Walker has any other books to read. I think I've found a new author for my favorite lists!

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This was such a sweet read, just want I needed to take my mind off the world news. A perfect escape from the depressing statistics. Set I WW2 this was slightly different from other war time books that I’ve read. This dealt with the secret codes and messages that went on in England during this time. I found this fascinating which made me enjoy the story even more. If this author has written anymore books then I will definitely look forward to reading them.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

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I requested to read and review this book from Avon Books. This is the first book I have read by author Betty Walker. This book is perfectly written for a first book in this new series the Cornish Girls. This book was in the 1940s Era during war time. The determination of Violet, Eva, Hazel, Lily and Alice is amazing. This book has something for everyone history, war, romance and mystery. Any type of reader can read this! Can't wait for book 2.

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Lovely story if you are in love with Cornwall and the good old times... not the war. The story is good written but it takes some time to get used to the jumping between "the girls". I couldn't put it away and read it until the end. Perfect for cold evenings at home or sunny summers in the garden. 😁

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The story takes place at the beginning of world war II. Following the lives of three women who end up together in the Cornish town of Porthcurno where a secret military base is running during WW2, they battle with not only the war, but rations, gender stereotypes, abusive husbands and raising nieces after one woman's sister is killed in the blitz. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to more books by the author.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls hooked me from the very beginning. It was hard to put down. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it, eager to pick it up again. The characters were well-developed and interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am thrilled that a sequel is in the works!

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Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

A very different view of England during WWII, as experienced through the eyes and ears of five English girls. The beautiful scenery so well described, and the calmness and quiet belies the fact that the England is at war. Victoria and her nieces, Lily and Alice, have experienced the bombs and the death they bring, and arrive at Porthcurno, South Cornwall ready for a respite. Eve also comes to recuperate after a near hit in London. Hunter, a resident, has wars’ side effect to deal with, a husband in the war and their teenage son who is itching to join his father at the front. They find Porthcurno not quite as silent and serene as it first seems. What the girls find and how they deal with it makes for a highly entertaining story. I did think there was some repetition but the characters were well defined and the story in intriguing. For Historical, General and Serial Interest.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls is a very well-written story with a good plot. There were three different perspectives, but it was written well enough that it didn't confuse or bother me at all. It was clear who was who and it stayed that way during the entire book. I liked Violet's chapters most, but all women were interesting characters with equally interesting stories. The reason I think it's worth four stars instead of five is that at times it was somewhat predictable (Hazel's husband for example, or Max), but apart from that it was great. I am already looking forward to the next book!

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A group of women from different walks of life form a friendship when they all arrive in Cornwall to work at a top secret WWII listening post.
They live through times of love, laughter and sadness in this well written novel.

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Full of the English charm, Cornish and Cockney accents, and vibrant personalities, this book is a delightful read! The first half of it is a little faster paced, which I enjoyed, the second half was a bit more predictable and sappy. I prefer reading more about the lifesyle and culture of the time to the overly simplified emotional stuff. The last few chapters were like any other average book out there, like anyone could have come up with the plot. Other than that, I enjoyed it, and I think that it could be super as a TV show! I am looking forward to read about the Cornish girls at Christmas!

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker
The minute I finished this I was looking to see if the author had written any other books! I looked up her name on Amazon and could find nothing under her name! If this is her debut book, WOW! I LOVED it!
This is an amazing book! I read this book in one sitting and I couldn’t put it down! My husband had to bring fast food home for supper!
The characters were fun, lovable, strong, sensitive and growing! I cannot wait for the next book! I adored Violet and the fact she was not overbearing, but she was exactly the type of sister I would have loved! There for you and guiding you and talking you through the bad stuff, but letting you grow up as well. Hazel as a mom and woman was remarkable! She was close at hand for her son and she knew that she couldn’t push him because she would have lost him totally! I cried when she did at one point because I felt her pain. I am not going to give a spoiler!
Eva was a blast of energy that kept you on your toes! However, deep down that girl had strength, morals, endurance, and ethics which she showed!
All the characters had depth and opinions and the book had development with continuity! That is why a sequel is going to happen with onward movement!

Betty Walker you are an hypnotizing author and I truly appreciate and am captivated by your novel!
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and I willingly give my thoughts and opinions.

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A charming and delightful WWII fiction set in picturesque Cornwall, with strong female characters and friendships and cute budding romances.

Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the opportunity to read an ARC of Wartime with the Cornish Girls in exchange for an honest review.

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what a perfect story! Three young women in WW2 end up befriending each other in the village of Porthcurno in Cornwall. They all have sadness to deal with, but draw strength from one another. This is a ‘feel good’ book.

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This is the first book I've read by Betty Walker. It is interesting but somewhat predictable. The characters seem like caricatures: the brash East-enders from London, the pretty, spoiled daughter of the colonel, and the mousy spouse of a wife-beater. They become friends while living in the same small Cornish town during WWII. Eventually they each find employment at a top-secret listening post. And despite the challenges and deprivations of wartime England, they each overcome and enjoy a happy ending. I liked the historical flavor of this story, but not the language and coarseness of some of the characters. Thanks to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this first book in this series. Walker has left a lot of intriguing loose ends to tie up in her next book!

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Thank you for the chance to read this book

This was a book about a group of woman who were thrown together in Cornwall due to various events in their life
It features an Aunt and 2 nieces leaving the bombing of the East End of London, a dancer who had run away from home to go to London and gets caught in a bomb blast there and a wife caught up in a abusive marriage with a husband serving in the War and her son

I enjoyed the book and can’t wait for the next one

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Three girls, three stories all set in the Cornish seaside surrounding a secret military base. Good characterization and plot, although I did want more descriptions of the countryside. It ended abruptly but I did find that there is a continuation in the next book which I look forward to reading.

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Historical fiction set in world war 2 is one of my favorite genres. This book is quite different from most as it is mainly set in Cornwall in one of the centres that intercepted and decoded messages which were an integral part of war work. Three women with different jobs, backgrounds and problems become friends, they all have one thing in common their desire to find true love and survive the war. I really enjoyed this book and will lookout for the next in the series.

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Thank you for the chance to read this book in return for a full and frank review.

This was a book about a group of woman who were thrown together in Cornwall due to various events in their lives. It centred around a communications station in Porthcurno in Cornwall.
I have never realised there were so many listening posts - though I do vaguely remember that a cable came from America to Cornwall for communication purposes

Some of the story is predictable though not all by any means. It does finish on a cliffhanger that makes you want to know what happens to the characters in the next book. The author is honest that this will be part of a series.
It features an Aunt and 2 nieces leaving the bombing of the East End of London, a dancer who had run away from home to go to London and gets caught in a bomb blast there and a wife caught up in a abusive marriage with a husband serving in the War and her son as well as the characters at the Communication Station.

I enjoyed the book and found myself reading 'just a bit more' - as I read before bed often this meant a few late nights when I should have been going to sleep. I do like books like this anyway showing what life could be like during and between the Two World Wars - so it was a typical read for me.

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There are 3 POV's in this book and i enjoyed all of them. There is Violet who is from the East End and moves to Cornwall to help on her Aunts farm and get away from the bombing in London. She is the custosian of her sisters 2 teenage children after her sister is killed in an bombing raid. There is Eva the Colonels daughter and moves to Cornwall to get away from the bombing after almost dying in a blast and finally there is Hazel who is living in her cottage with her teenage son after her abusive / violent / drunk husband has gone to fight in the war.

The way the lives of the three women intermingle is very well done and i had a real dislike for Uncle Stanley and Aunt Margaret so much so that i didnt even want to read Violets bits. I did but would have liked some sort of comeuppance for them, him especially. George is a very sweet and kind character and i love the Colonels stiff upper lip no need for crying attitude i feel it is very on point for the time period. The scene on the cliffs with Eva and the professor could have maybe been expanded slightly the peril part are she seem to infer alot from not alot if that makes sense.

I have just realised that Professor Templeton (maybe) named after the rat is Charlotte's web, very apt.

I enjoyed this book and recommend it. This is book 1 and i will hopefully be able to read book 2 also.

There are trigger warnings for domestic violence & sexual assault

This book was provided to me by Netgalley and Avon publishing. Although the book was provided to me the stars are mine to give.

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⭐ Review ⭐

Wartime with the Cornish Girls - Betty Walker

E-ARC - Release date 18th February 2021!

The story follows three women; Violet, Hazel, and Eva, who all meet in a small Cornish town surrounding a secret military base during the Blitz in 1941.

It took me a couple of chapters to get into to it but once I had, I couldn't put it down! I loved watching the characters and relationships blossom and the elements of mystery running throughout.

Overall, I found it a cosy, heartwarming read with a few twists and turns along the way - I recommend a read!

Thank you to @avon_books and @netgalley for this e-ARC!

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I love books like this, all girls together, getting organised, making things happen.

I feel it definitely need a sequel, I really want to find out more about the Cornish Girls.

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Now this is the novel I needed! I have been reading so many heavy WW2 Historical Fiction novels recently that this story was such a breath of fresh air, just like a perfect Cornish day! This story centers around three extraordinary women—-Violet, Hazel, and Eva—— who cross paths in a small Cornish town during WW2. Each woman deals with personal struggles and triumphs whilst forming lasting bonds of friendship and love. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I was so entertained by this book. I highly recommend it! Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC!

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Such a truly beautiful story. Set during the start of World War 2. It's the story of three women working at a secret location, two of them as cleaners and the third in the secret codes and information section.
This is the first book I've read by Betty Walker but it certainly won't be the last.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for allowing me to read it.

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I really enjoyed this book and having visited the 'listening post' a few years back on holiday it bought it all back to me. The storyline was strong and I liked the way each chapter, to start with, went between the three main characters. There were a few twists and turns on the way that kept you hooked into the story. I'm left wanting more to find out what will happen with Miss Hopkins and Mr Postbridge. Please don't leave me waiting too long for the next book. I would highly recommend this easy to read and most satisfying story. Thank you.

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I was immediately swept into the world of these characters and wanted to know more. The friendship formed from 3 very different women is strong @nd supportive. They stand by one another and help make life a better place.

The references to the wartime work in Cornwall and the secret missions is engaging @nd based on reality.

A really lovely book that will sprinkle, love, mystery, excitement and friendship into your reading and will leave you wanting to know more.

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An interesting and enjoyable story that keeps you involved from the beginning right through until the final page. Definitely recommended to those readers who enjoy reading this type of book.

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I really enjoyed this story and had a hard time putting it down. If you enjoy reading historical fiction then I highly recommend this book. It’s charming and great for a winter nights read. The main characters really draw you in and at times your heart will ache for them.

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A truly beautiful historical fiction set in WWII.
What a wonderful cast of characters to meet!
Violet and her two nieces leave London to escape the bombings. They move to Cornwall to help her Aunt on the farm. They hope to find safety there.
Eva is young and the daughter of a Colonel stationed in Cornwall. Eva is sent there to be under his protection.
Hazel lives in Cornwall with her son and her husband is off fighting in the war.
I loved how the author intertwined the stories of the characters.
Wartime With The Cornish Girls is a story full of engaging wartime romance, intriguing espionage and interesting mystery.
I want to read the sequel to Wartime With The Cornish Girls! Like right now....I need to see what happens with the ladies and gents!
Betty Walker your writing is exquisite. I will be looking for more books by you.
Many many thanks to NetGalley, Avon Books UK and author, Betty Walker, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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A wonderful story that I couldn't put down. I love anything set in Cornwall and the descriptive writing was beautiful.
Hazel, mother to Charlie is born and bred Cornish. She, Violet and Eva meet and become friends when Violet and her two nieces arrive in Cornwall to escape the London bombings and Eva who is high spirited and goes her own merry way is forced to move from London by her father.
They each get jobs at the Top Secret Installation where Eva's father, Colonel Ryder, works.
Violet was my favorite character. She's from the East End in London and is tough and used to standing up for herself. She faces yet more problems when she first arrives in Cornwall.
Eva didn't endear herself to me. She did what she wanted and swept aside anyone's objections without a single thought for anyone else. She's young and has a lot to learn.
Hazel has had a hard life. She's a bit downtrodden at the start but begins to stand up for herself with the help of her new friends.
This is a story of the home front during war time but there is some intrigue as well. I like the way each chapter starts off with one of the girls as the focal point. It makes it easy to follow and you get to know the characters quickly.
If you like books by Ellie Dean or Kate Thompson, you will adore this.
I'd highly recommend it!

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I would thoroughly recommend this book, especially to anyone who loves historical fiction.

Victoria and her two nieces Alice and Lily end up going to Cornwall to escape both the bombings, and people, in East London. Alice and Lily are looked after by Aunty Vi since their mother/ Violent's sister died in a bombing. The people in East London are causing so much trouble for the family labelling them german spies since her brother in law in half german and is missing in action. Will their secret follow them to Cornwall?

Eva Ryder is a dancer in London. One evening she is pulled by Max who is a pilot from America, but on the way home, arm in arm, they are thrown by a blast right next to them. Eva wakes up in hospital, with Max no where to be seen. She is immediately shipped to be with her Father Colonel Ryder in Cornwall to keep her safe and out of trouble. Could she have fallen for Max just from a few hours with him? Is he even alive?

Hazel and her son Charlie live in Cornwall. Her husband Bertie is away at War, he may be a good man, but he is not a good husband. Hazel tries her best to use the makeup to cover up her bruises. Hazel starts a new job at the secret Listening Point. Her childhood sweetheart George becomes her boss. She is a married woman, but can she resist George's charm?

It is a great story about how these three lives blend together in a time of need. Each narrative has their own storyline and plot twists. It is beautifully rewritten and I found it enjoyable to read. I managed to finish this book in just three sittings, it was a page turner. I was almost disappointed it ended, but it lends itself perfectly for a sequel.
I would absolutely give this book a full 5 stars!

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I initially found it hard to get into this book but by the end I had tears in my eyes and was desperate to see there was another one coming! I struggled with the storyline of the girls staying at their Aunt's farm and could see where it was going and never enjoy storylines like that. After they had gone I found the book more enjoyable and lighthearted to read. I will certainly read the next in the series and look forward to it being published.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls
by Betty Walker
Avon Books UK
Avon
General Fiction (Adult) | Historical Fiction
Pub Date 18 Feb 2021 | Archive Date Not set

Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I had not read this author before and was pleasantly surprised. I can't wait to read more of her books. A great family saga, set in war times.
I will recommend this book.

5 star

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"Wartime with the Cornish Girls" describes life during World War II in Cornwall, England. The lives of three women unexpectedly converge as they gain employment at a secret communications center. Their personal lives also become a focal point of the story as several plot lines combine. Austerity, hardship, friendship, and love all play a role in the lives of Eva, Hazel, and Violet in this historically focused novel. Readers who enjoy a clean historical read and want to learn more about people on the home front will find this to be an intriguing selection.

I received this novel from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

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Love this book my favourite type. Pre or post war. You can really get into the characters and I didn’t want it to end I wanted to read on. At these times when it feels like some kind of war this was a lovely way to take you away and look on the lighter side of war and catastrophes.

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WWII family saga that will make your heart sing and leaving you wanting more in this terrific book. Grab a cup of tea and curl up and lose yourself in wartime Britain.

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1941 the London blitz. Historical Fiction set in England during WWII about 3 girls who find friendship at a military base, dealing with challenges and difficulties, but doing the best they can. "Stiff upper lip and all that." You could say the British people have a way of "staying calm and carrying on." It's all been written before, yet I enjoyed it thoroughly. I have never read anything before that Ms. Walker has written, but it won't be my last. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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I simply adored this book! It is the story of three women during World War 2 who meet each other through various circumstances and become friends. I enjoyed the characters along with the setting and liked the fact that this book wasn't set right in London like so many books of its type tend to be. There were wonderful descriptions of the settings as well as the multitude of characters. It leaves you wanting more! Fortunately, I see that there is a Christmas edition following this book which I am hoping will continue the saga. Thank you to Netgalley for this free ebook in exchange for an honest review.

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Set during the early stages of WW2 this is a heartwarming tale of three women and how they cope. Set in the village of Porthcurno in Cornwall this makes a nice change from the usual city based stories. Gutsy Londoner Violet moves down to Cornwall with her two nieces to escape the worst of the blitz. Here she meets local girl Hazel who has troubles of her own. Eva is also evacuated from London, and as these three girls cross paths they form a friendship that spans the book. This is obviously the first in a series and I for one can’t wait to see where we find the women in the next instalment.

Thanks to #NetGalley and the author #BettyWalker for this advanced copy of #WarTimeWithThe CornishGirls

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This was a really charming book that was just what I needed during these "interesting" times. It took me away to a different time in beautiful Cornwall, England. The characters were interesting and real, they faced hardships with grace. The plot was a different look at WWII England, from the point of view of the women who were left behind when men went to war. I'm really looking forward to the sequel. 4 stars.

Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books-UK for the ARC of this book, the review is unsolicited and all opinions are my own.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls tells the story of three different women whom have issues of their own. Their stories do come together and are interwoven through out most of the book. You have Hazel who is from Cornwall, Violet who is from London (East End) and Eva who grew up all over the place due to her father being in the Military.
The friendship these women forage in the first book of the series seems quick and long lasting. This could be due to the where they work or the time period.

This story is a great way to pull you into their world and feel like you are there. I am excited for this series and will be checking it out.

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A bit different to have a wartime book set in Cornwell. The stories of Eve,Hazel and Violet all come together when they meet in Cornwall and work in the army listening centre ,a top secret establishment.
Three women from completely different lives all helping each other get through the miseries of wartime.
I enjoyed this book. I liked the characters straightaway and the book had a good flow to it.
Looking forward to the next book in the serie.

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Enjoyed this book, based in Cornwall in wartime, interesting characters and storyline. So interesting to read how people came together in war torn Britain

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Five different women, from different walks of life, all arrive in Porthcurno (lovely place!) Cornwall to work at a top secret WWII listening post.

The book gave some insight in to the hardships of life - comparing living in London to that of Cornwall.

The characters were quite believable although not sure all Eastenders sounded like Violet?!

Easy, well written, somewhat short read with factual history interest.

I would be happy to read the next in the series.

Thanks to Net Galley and Avon Books UK for the chance to read and review.

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An interesting tale which slowly spins you into its web. One thing to note is the story set during backdrop of world war. The background setup makes you sit on your edge, as we never know when a air raid takes places and twists the entire tale.
This book makes you emote with characters and feel the pain, despair of the characters feel. Also, we get to know how the girls emerged through the constraints of the society and stood strong.

I am waiting for next instalment in the series.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls is about three different women from different walks of life finding themselves together in Cornwall during the War, becoming friends, and going through life experiences. It was an easy read, but very engaging, i loved all the characters and wished the best for them all.

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There are very few women-centric based works in the period of WWII that I have come across, and much lesser of these that bequeath a satisfying mood for you once you conclude it; Wartime with Cornish Girls is assuredly one of those. Ladies, though deemed as the more vulnerable sex, are quite ardent and can perform jobs more reliably; the writer describes that via tales of three women, based on real-life experiences.

The author has addressed every female cast with their detailed standalone representations, getting the readers intertwined in the novel. The writing is captivating and has you inspired. Though I have never seen Cornwall or London, the writer produced a precise picture of its situation, assisting me in visualizing it as well. I can't wait to read the following part of this series.

I want to thank NetGalley, the Author Betty Walker, and the Publisher Avon Books for providing me an e-ARC of the book.

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I've been a big fan of WW2 fiction for several years now, and this book did not disappoint. I quickly got caught up in the story, and wanted to just read till I was finished. My only complaint is that it wasn't longer, I just wanted the story to keep going. The good news I read is this will be a series, so I'm looking forward eagerly to more of this author's books.

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I don't usually read books about WWII. If it is a historical romance, I prefer regency period.
But this was a sweet read. This one is a more romance than a mystery, which is a win in my book.
It was a slow start for me, but The ending bought me.
This is a good one. 3.5 stars.

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This story brings together three women from different backgrounds: Violet Hopkins, an East End girl, now responsible for her deceased sister's teen-aged girls, Lily and Alice; Hazel Baxter, a Cornishwoman, mother to fifteen year old Charlie and abused wife of Bertie Baxter; and Eva Ryder, the rebellious daughter of the Commanding Officer at Eastern House, Colonel Ryder.

Their daily lives play out in the shadow of World War II. Violet has escaped the bombing in London with her nieces to the relative safety of Porthcorno. Hazel is only too happy that her husband is on active duty, and she does not have to live in fear of him every moment of the day. Eva, having narrowly escaped death in London, has been summoned to Porthcorno to stay with her father. They find themselves working at Eastern House, and form a friendship that, of its day, might only have been made possible by war.

Headstrong Eva wants some fun and enlists Hazel and Violet to help organise a dance. They each have a romantic interest, and their stories are not without intrigue, hope and love.

I really enjoyed this well-written and plausible story. I particularly liked learning about the listening station operations where Eva was working. The main characters are easily likeable and I look forward to reading the next book in this series to see how these girls are coping as the war continues.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker is the first in a series of books which I must say I am excited about as I absolutely enjoyed this one and would be keen to read more.

The characters are so likeable, the story engaging and easily read in one sitting.

Synopsis

1941. The Blitz rages over London.
And even in Cornwall, the war is being fought…

When Violet loses her sister in the Blitz, she must take her nieces to safety in Cornwall. On the coast, she meets carefree chorus girl Eva, who is also running from the dangers of London.

But Porthcurno hides a secret military base, and soon Violet and Eva realise there’s a battle to fight in Cornwall, too.

Together with local Hazel, who works on the base, they must come together to help the war effort. But will their friendship be enough to keep them safe?

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London 1941.
The Germans are bombing London ruthlessly, Violet Hopkins sister has already been killed during the Blitz, her brother in-law Ernst is missing in action and she’s really worried about keeping her two teenage nieces Lily and Alice safe. Her mum Sheila is determined to stay and run her East End Café and Violet makes the decision to move to Cornwall, take the girls with her and they should be fine living at her great-aunt Margaret’s farm?

Eva Ryder was staying with her uncle Teddy; she ran off and wanted to be a dancer. Her dancing career lasted six weeks; she’s caught up in a bombing raid and injured. Once she’s discharged from hospital Eva goes to stay with her dad, he’s in charge of a top secret military base in Cornwall called the Eastern House and it’s near Porthcurno.

Hazel Baxter lives in Cornwall near Porthcurno, she’s married to Bertie and they have a teenage son Charlie. Bertie is a drunk, a shocking husband and abusive. Hazel is relieved when he returns to his regiment after his last leave; she’s having trouble making ends meet and really needs a job. George Cotterill is a childhood friend; he mentions they need more domestic staff at Eastern House and Hazel applies for a job.

Violet, Hazel and Eva all meet at Eastern House; they become friends and decide to organize a dance at the local church hall. But, the trio unfortunately discover nowhere in England is safe during WW II, not even Cornwall during a country dance and the Germans start dropping bombs.

Wartime With The Cornish Girls is a story about life in Cornwall during WW II, the friendship formed between three young women and how they helped each other when times got tough. The book also highlights the work women did during WW II and they played an important role in helping England win the war and the discrimination they faced. I received a copy of Wartime With The Cornish Girls in exchange for an honest review, five stars from me and I look forward to reading the next book in The Cornish Girls series.

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This was such a cute story of three girls who end up in the Cornish countryside during WWII. The relationships between the characters are so well developed, you can't help but rooting for them. I love books with strong women, and this had plenty. You fall in love with the girls, and the English countryside by the sea. I can't wait to read the next installment. A big thank you to net galley and Avon Books for the ARC.

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A gentle set of romances set amidst war-torn Britain but especially in what should have been peaceful Cornwall. One of the heroines is a local girl with a teenage son and abusive husband, fortunately off at war. The other two arrive from London - one brought back to Papa because she is running 'a little wild' in London and the other escaping the blitz and persecution by local yobs for her part German relatives. Cornwall isn't as quiet and safe as they thought. Top security decoding, a spy inside, abusive uncle, aunt from hell, gentle old boyfriend, and dashing men in uniforms all give a feel for what the girls found. There is a strong sense of fellowship and developing friendship as they help each other out and good descriptions of war torn Britain. At the end one of the girls is probably at the point of 'living happily ever after', the romances of the other two will, no doubt, form future stories. Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls is a delightful charmer told with threads of both sweetness and heartache as three women (and other characters) navigate the horrors of WWII. Their backgrounds are all different but we are reminded that we are all human with the same basic needs. Each contributes to the war effort in her own way and they all learn to hope. Sometimes that is all they have.

We meet upfront and direct Violet who takes her teenaged nieces to live in Cornwall out of necessity after her sister dies. They are faced with brutal circumstances throughout the story. Downtrodden Hazel is living her own nightmare. Her husband is abusive and their teenaged son, Charlie, is the "man" of the house while his dad is away. Eva, an outgoing chorus girl who would rather be dancing, is Colonel Ryder's daughter, sent to live with him in hopes of taming her a bit.

The women discover their strengths, strengths they did not even realize they had. As the book goes on we also learn more about different aspects of the war, both physical and mental. I enjoyed the twists and stories within a story with hints of mysteries, too.

Those interested in learning more about the difficulties and intricacies of WWII, especially for women, do pick up this book. It does not go into as much gritty detail as some do so if you prefer a slightly lighter read, this is for you.

My sincere thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this enthralling book in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated. Looking forward to subsequent books in the series!

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What a way to start a series. I loved taking part of the Main characters lives. I loved getting to know the.. You Will fall in love with the book and the Main characters. When we follow them through hardships love and strength. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

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This is a charming story with great characters showing the difference between people from London and Cornwall.
It also brilliantly shows the attitude of men to women at the start of the war.
A great read.

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would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this quaint book

life in the east end is tough what with the germans bombing it every night and for voilet its extra tough as she not only lost her sister in the blitz but she has taken on her nieces as well..as their dad is off fighting in the war...but the neighbourhood bullies were accusing him of being a spy because of his german heritage...life was difficult

so off voilet went to cornwall with the nieces, to her aunties place...could they find happiness there....

a brilliant collection of characters brought together when loose lips sinks ships and secrecy is paramount...plus added drama of everyday life...

brilliantly written cant wait to see what else this author brings out next

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I’ve only recently discovered wartime sagas; it’s opened up a whole new world to me and introduced some wonderful stories.
The three protagonists in this book are Violet, Eva and Hazel. Each have their own stories and battles and I enjoyed the structure of the chapters as they switched between characters, in turn.
Violet has fled war torn London for the relative safety of the Cornwall coast. She’s brought her nieces with her, the daughters of her late sister who didn’t survive one of the German bombing raids.
Hazel has her own private battles, an abusive husband who is thankfully away at war and a son who is about to leave school with hopes of following his father to the battlefield.
Eva has survived a German bomb and, as a result, has been returned to her Father’s care at Porthcurno, an army base in Cornwall.
The three girls become close friends and find that they must negotiate all manner of obstacles if they are to find happiness amidst the constant fear of German bombers.
I really enjoyed the way this book was able to encompass the lighter side of life with the arranging of a dance against the peril of subterfuge and espionage. Parts of the story were thrilling as the gravity of the phrases about loose lips were brought to the fore.
This is the first in what is an encouraging series. The next book is titled Christmas with the Cornish Girls so I will look forward to reading that. I hope that this review will encourage a wider readership as this is a book that deserves to be read and enjoyed.

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Wartime with Cornish Girls by Betty Walker is a light and sweet story.
The book is about struggle of women during WWII when men are at war performing their duty towards their country but women are also fighting with them at their homes to keep the kitchen running and tending the families..
During the tough times of War the girls manage to squeeze little moments of happiness and live in unexpected times.

The story and characters build gradually giving reader time to attach to them.

I recommend the book to anyone who wants to read a women centric war story where there is love and hope...

#netgalley #bettywalker #wartimewithcornishgirls

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls by Betty Walker is an adventure for sure! The story follows three women during WW2. Eva is living in London when she is injured in a bombing. Violet is tasked with caring for her dead sister's daughters and trying to provide for them. Hazel is a battered wife whose husband is on the front and she is struggling to make ends meet for her and her son. When the three meet in Cornwall, their friendship will support them as the war draws ever closer to their lives. This book was a new look at the war from a new location. The more I read about WW2 and all that happened, it amazes me to see how many places were hit, either by bombs, rations, loss of men and lives, etc. Wartime with the Cornish Girls showed yet another location that was subjected to the terror and pain of war. However, it also showed the depth of the human spirit and what we can accomplish and survive. I am looking forward to the next book in the series! Thanks to #NetGalley for the chance to read this book. #Wartimewiththecornishgirls #bookstagram #all_the_pages

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Set in Cornwall during World War 2, 3 women from different backgrounds meet and become friends. A light read.

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If historical fiction is your genre, then this is the book for you. If you love books about strong women and the stories about their lives both the good and the hard, then this is your book. I love historical fiction, but over the past few years, I've walked away from it because so many books were cookie cutters of others and I struggled to find a unique story with interesting characters and to find something that I didn't feel like I'd already read. This book gave me my love of historical fiction back. I loved the story and the characters. It's the perfect combination of plot, character development, and descriptive details that make you feel like you're in the book and when you turn the final page, you're left feeling like you got a complete story but also wishing there was more because you love the characters so much you don't want it to end.

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An entertaining and fascinating family saga that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I loved the characters, the vivid historical background and descriptions of Cornwall.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

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I was first drawn to this as I now live in Cornwall. Walker absolutely nails the beauty of the Cornish culture, and with a heart-warming and tale of love, friendship and loyalty joined with the trials and tribulations of war the story is an absolute winner in my book!

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Wartime with the Cornish Girls weaves together the stories of three women from quite different backgrounds. Unfortunately, Violet and Hazel, seemed to spend most of the book sniveling into their handkerchiefs and wailing 'whatever will I do?' Even taking into consideration how different women's lives were in the '40s, they seemed weak and helpless. Eva was, by far, the strongest of the three characters, and her sections were the most fun to read. The sense of place and time were solid, however, and I will definitely read the next one.

I received an ARC from Avon Books and NetGalley.com. I wasn't required to write a positive review & opinions expressed are my own. FTC 16 CFR, Pt 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements &Testimonials in Advertising.

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When the Blitz hits London Violet persuades her mother to get away from the danger with her late sister’s two girls. At the same time Eva a headstrong young woman has taken a chorus girl job to get away from routine life expected of her until a bomb changes things and she also heads to Cornwall where her father is in charge of a secret war effort in Porthcarno. Then into the story we learn of Hazel who is a local girl struggling to keep her family fed with a feckless husband who heads off to war but has indoctrinated his teenage son with his attitude to women. This mixture of abusive relationships, wartime danger as well as romance added to the chance there may be a spy in the midst lends to a great story.

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Thoroughly enjoyed this war time saga well written with some great characters.
The story takes us to a small village called Porthcurno in Cornwall where the military are hiding a top secret base.
A really interesting story with a group of women being thrown together all coming from varying backgrounds.
Violet and her two nieces have moved from London to escape the horrific bombings already having lost a much loved sister & mother to the two girls. Their father is also missing in action. Although Violets mother won’t go with them they both think it will be safer for the girls.
Hazel a wife & mother to Charlie is very unhappily married to a really abusive man
who is now in the army. When he is home on leave it becomes really hard as he is even turning her son against her.
Lastly we have Eva who after suffering injuries from an exploding bomb comes to Cornwall at the request of her father.
Her Father is the Commander of the top secret military base.
All the girls finally end up working at the base & their lives soon become entwined.
Lots of ups and downs in this book to keep you engrossed.
I do enjoy a good wartime story as it shows how people really pulled together & went on to forge great friendships. They laughed they cried and just carried on the best way they could.
Will definitely want to read the follow on from this to find out how the girls get on.

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An interesting storyline about the lives of three women thrown together in a small coastal village in Cornwall. The author describes in detail the backgrounds of the three women, but once the three women finally meet you begin to appreciate how people from different backgrounds react when faced with having to deal with the trauma of wartime Britain. It’s not a strong storyline and I must admit it did take me some time to get to know the characters. It’s a good book to be able to dip in and out of, making it an ideal book to read whilst on the bus, train or plane. Lots of ends left untied at the end of the book, so I’m hoping for a sequel.

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Told from three major perspectives and focused on the changes that were necessitated by the bombings, war and struggles to survive, this tale is eminently readable and enjoyable, despite the often-horrible circumstances and personal tragedies. Starting with Violet in London’s East End, she’s just lost her sister to the bombings, and has been working with her mother in a small café to keep the family afloat. Her two young nieces are living (and grieving) with them, and to add to the complexity of their situation, their father is listed as MIA, after having signed on to the war effort at the beginning. His German heritage and name have made him an object of suspicion in the neighborhood, with taunts and dangers around every corner – even though all his family knows the tales are wholly fabricated. With an aunt in Cornwall, Violet makes the tough decision to take the girls to the little village for a break from the war- to ensure their safety and perhaps find a new opportunity.

Meanwhile in Cornwall, Hazel and her teen son Charlie are struggling to make ends meet, with the in and out return of her ne’er do well husband. Abusive and an object of scorn in the little village of Porthcurno, she’s applied for a job at the local “big house”, now a military installation who's civilian employees are managed by a former flame, George. Taking on the job of a kitchen helper, Hazel is torn between her duty to her husband and the newly ignited flame and fond memories of her time with George. Managing a teen boy who is acting out and smarting-off, combined with the dread of her husband’s return – his enlistment only adds a bit more worry to her plate – even as she is relieved to have him out of the way.

Lastly there is Eva, daughter of the Commander of the military installation in Cornwall, she’s been living with an uncle until recently, when she disappeared only to emerge in London as a dancer in the theater. A bit headstrong and more mature than she should be – the appearance of a pilot who has left notes and charmed her brings her to near death in a bombing raid, and soon she is shunted off to Cornwall, having to deal with her ‘troublemaker’ past and her father’s rather low expectations of her ability to follow orders and stay out of trouble.

The story integrates the three as they struggle, meet one another, form friendships and learn that together they are capable of more than anyone expected, even dealing with loss, tragedy, new life and new hope. A lovely introduction to both the war effort, people on the homefront facing deprivations, changes and fear, and the great power that is hope, duty and determination in the face of adverse conditions and the unknown. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see where it leads.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-aRj /” > <a> I am, Indeed </a>

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I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a fascinating read and was beautifully written. I loved the twists and turns which made me laugh at times and also showed the strength of friendship. I am looking forward to the next in the series.

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My first read by Betty Walker and throughly enjoyed it. I have read similar books in the past and they never fail to be a nice easy read with comforting relatable characters, a really nice palate cleanser.
The story follows three women, Eva, a colonel’s daughter sent to live with her father after a very close call in a London air raid. Hazel, a local to Cornwall who’s abusive husband has gone off to serve in the war while she and her son are trying to carry on and Violet who was sent to Cornwall to keep her two nieces out of the way of the nightly air raids. A lovely wartime read that wove these three women’s lives together during a time when they were all just trying to get by. Enjoyed the few twists and turns in the story as well as the predictability at other points.
Looking forward to the second book in the series to pick up where we left off and see what else happens to these three ladies.

Thank you to Net Galley and Avon Books UK for the advanced copy.

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Wartime With the Cornish Girls
An interesting story, probably partially true. Good characters, good writing.

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Porthcurno, Cornwall England hides an underground World War II military base where numerous military personnel as well as civilian aides are decoding German messages. Violet loses her sister in the London bombings and heads to Cornwall with her 2 nieces. On the way to Cornwall, she meets Eva who is also running from London dangers. Together with Hazel who lives in Porthcurno, the 3 girls band together to help the war effort.

Betty Walker is a new-to-me author, but I thoroughly enjoyed this story of the three young women who banded together to help one another as well as serve the war effort. Her historical research is obvious, and Walker brought the area, life, and times of the military and the civilians into a vivid picture. The novel is filled with history, suspense and romance; and I look forward to reading the next book in this series to see what happens next with the three young women.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

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Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the chance to review this book. I gave it 5 easy stars. It follows the lives of three women in Cornwall during WW2. I read just about exclusively historical fiction but this was my first one set in Cornwall. This was a very interesting an enjoyable read.

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Gripping book from the first page, in the midst of a war how unlikely people come together, a story full of new found friendships and the odd cheeky romance, wonderfully written and a brilliant story I seriously couldn't stop reading until I had finished the book, I look forward to reading more from this author

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I enjoyed reading Betty Walker's Wartime with the Cornish Girls. The story puts the reader in the middle of events that shaped the future of the brave men and women in Great Britain. Fortitude and courage allowed them to overcome the hardships of a war that took so much from them all. People who may never have met before the war were on an even keel through their work in the united war efforts.

It is no secret I enjoy historical fiction, and with the added bonus of a secret base on Cornwall with a bit of intrigue captured my attention. Of course, as with any story set during war, there is no ignoring the devastation of the lives lost, especially in remote locations where people least expect the intrusion of an enemy attack. I look forward to reading more of Betty Walker's works in the future

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In Wartime With The Cornish Girls we follow the stories of three women:
Hazel, a local Cornish woman, is unhappily married to the drunk abusive Bertie (who is away at war) and has a 15 yr old son Charlie. Like so many others, she is struggling to make ends meet.
Violet is an EastEnd Londoner who flees to Cornwall with her teenage nieces Lily & Alice in a bid to keep them safe after their mother is killed during the Blitz. They initially plan to stay with great-aunt Margaret but soon realise that this is not going to be a long-term plan.
Eva is a privileged young lady who aspires to be a dancer. In London she is injured during a bombing raid & when she is discharged from hospital she goes to stay with her dad, a Colonel in charge of a top secret military base in Cornwall called the Eastern House.
The three women are thrown together by circumstances & all end up working at Eastern House.

The book started slowly & a little confusingly as the characters were introduced, but soon developed into a gentle WW2 “home front” story of women, friendship & the reality of what ordinary women did during the war & how they pulled together to help each other. It has some nice descriptive narrative & characters that develop well. I understand this is the first book in a series, and I would definitely look out for the next one.

Disclosure: I received an advance reader copy of this book free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
#WartimewiththeCornishGirls #NetGalley

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A Great War time book but this time moving away from London or city centres to the quieter region of Cornwall. Following 3 different women .Eva,Violet, Hazel and their families. All the characters were easy to get to know and the chapters were all of reasonable length. The final chapter came to rather an abrupt end so I’m hoping the Christmas book will bring more light to these lovable ladies. Thanks to Betty Walker and NetGalley.

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I really enjoyed this book I like historical fiction and this book did not disappoint.

We have Violet with her two nieces Lily & Alice who she looks after they move to Cornwall to be on the safe side from the East End of London where the the bombing is bad.

Then we have Eva who seems a bit a rebel but is a very intelligent girl she comes to live with her Father who is the Colonel on a base in Cornwall.

Then there is Hazel who is married to Bertie and they have Charlie. Life for Hazel is not good but she makes the best of what she has.

The woman all end being friends as they all work on the base at Portucurna.

I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

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East London during the Blitz and when Violet loses her sister in the Blitz, she decides to take her nieces to safety on her aunts farm in Cornwall. Once there she meets Hazel, a woman married to a bully of a husband who was recently gone off to fight for his country. Together they meet Eva who is also running from the dangers of London.

The town Porthcurno hides a secret military base, and the three women who all get jobs at the base realise there’s a battle to fight in Cornwall, too. But will their friendship be enough to keep them safe?

I will be honest, initially I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book, as it is so far away from the type of books I usually read however, it blew me away and I absolutely loved it!!!

The characters are so well written you immediately fall in love with the good ones, and want to boo and hiss at the baddies! I’m also ashamed to say that I never knew that Cornwall was bombed so heavily during the war, or played such an important part, as you only ever really hear about London, or the amazing work that was done at Bletchley.

As the first book in a series, this is setting up the characters, and really draws you into their lives, however, it has twists and tales that will captivate you and you won’t want to put this book down. I can’t recommend it enough and I’m already excited for the next one in the series!!!

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Wartime With The Cornish Girls is the first book in The Cornish Girls by Betty Walker.   A captivating story that I couldn't put down. The setting in Cornwall and the descriptive writing were beautiful.

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This is an interesting book, first in a series apparently. Setting is WWII in Cornwall, England, yet it doesn’t feel as overwhelming and depressing as a lot of war books. I think that’s because of the characters : Vi, Eva and Hazel. They come from different backgrounds but meet in Cornwall and become friends. They are so helpful to each other that you can’t help but like them and be hopeful for their future happiness. I look forward to reading the next one.

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A brilliant story that is beautifully written. An excellent page turner which had me gripped from the beginning until the end. I found it incredibly difficult to put down and was disappointed when I finished it and I can't wait for the next book in The Cornish Girls series.

I would definitely recommend this book.

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This book appeals on two main things - women during wartime, and getting in on the ground floor of a new series.

Violet has already lost her sister to the war; with their father in the forces she is responsible for the safety of her two nieces and London is not a safe place, so she takes them to stay with family in Cornwall where she meets Eva, former chorus girl, also seeking somewhere safer than the capital city. Hazel is living in Porthcurno, where there is a secret base. With all three women working there, they join together to help the war effort - but will that be enough to keep them all safe?

I've read a lot of World War II domestic fiction, but this one is different in that it's not set in London but rather on the Cornish coast which gives it a whole new feel. There is a lot going on, and it is all rather thrilling! With more to this story than these three women, there is never a dull moment. In addition to the domestic side of things, there is also the constraint of working under the official secrets act and the author produces a beautifully written, gripping novel with a few surprises along the way. Thoroughly enjoyable, and I'm already looking forward to the second book. 4.5* and my recommendation for this one!

My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.

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I finished this book and I'm desperate to read the next one in the series. A wonderful story about hope, love and friendship at during the Second World War. My heart broke for the characters who had lost so much. There was great character development and though it did take me a while to warm to Eva, I got there eventually. I really can't wait to see what the follow-up has in store for everybody. A wonderful wartime story for anybody who loves historical fiction.

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1941. Many are fleeing London to escape the Blitz. Three women meet in Cornwall. Each has their own story -- a sister killed in the Blitz, one recovering from bombing injuries, another just trying to survive. They become friends, and end up working at a top secret military installation to help the war effort.

What a lovely story about friendship, bravery, and the strength of women in hard times! I loved all the main characters. They come from very different lives, but become the best of friends....in the worst of times. I liked the fact that this story wasn't just about the war and the secret installation, but also about these three women and their lives.

Great story! This is the first book I've read by this author. She writes under two other pen names...I'm going to check out her other books (she writes thrillers, romance and YA fantasy)! I like her style! Wartime With the Cornish Girls would make an excellent movie or television series. The vibe reminded me a lot of the friendships in The Land Girls or Bomb Girls.

This is a book that definitely warrants a second read. As soon as it comes out, I'm snagging the audio book!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Avon Books.

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Perfect for fans of the big WWII novel. I love a book set in Cornwall and this was no exception. Three women, three different personal histories, all come together as friends. Violet never expected to become the guardian for her nieces- teens no less. Eva was a chorus girl happy to be in London until she was injured in the Blitz. Hazel has an abusive husband. All three work at the top secret critical facility run by Eva's father but the work isn't the story here- it's the women and their families. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. It's a very good read for fans of the genre.

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The Cornish Girls #1

1941, The Blitz rages over London - When Violet loses her sister in the Blitz, she must take her nieces to safety in
Cornwall. On the coast, she meets chorus girl Eva, who is also running from the dangers of London. But Porthcurno hides a secret military base and soon Violet and Eva realise there's a battle to fight in Cornwall too. Together with local woman Hazel, who works on the base, they must come together to help the war effort.

This is an intriguing story about a secret communication military outpost in Cornwall during WWII. The story is descriptively written. The characters are well developed, likeable and they all come from different backgrounds. The women all have their own burdens to carry. We also learn different aspects of the war. This is a great start to a new series. I'll be looking out for the second book in this series.

I would like to thank #NetGalley, #AvonBooksUK and the author #BettyWalker for my ARC of #WartimeWithTheCornishGirls in exchange for an honest review.

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This is an absolutely delightful story of three very different women who meet and become friends in Cornwall during WWII. Each woman is easily likeable and I could picture them in my mind as friends sitting around chatting over a cup of tea. There is some adorable humour in the book via the nieces from the East End of London which lightens the story. While this is a war story it is full of friendship and love. The author has created a wonderful cast of characters and she treated each of them equally, letting us get to know each of them while weaving their stories together. I felt happy reading this book and that is a sign of an excellent writer. She dealt with the various jobs women took on to support their country during war even in a rural area set in the old ways of doing things are written in stone.

I highly recommend this book and I can’t wait to read the next in the series. This book ended nicely so you don’t feel that you are missing anything if you only read this book but I know I have to read the rest when they are released. Thank you to Avon Books via NetGalley for the opportunity to read this sweet and heartwarming book.

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Thank you Netgalley for providing me an ARC copy.

World war is itself a vast subject and when someone took it as the background of their book, they get to play around with so much. Now for this book the author choose three ladies in England and mixed their personal life with wartimes, telling us stories of friendship, supporting each other, trauma, war strategy and so on.

The book has three major female leads. Violat Hopkins started a new life in Cornwell to avoid blitz with her two teen nieces. The blitz has already killed her sister and her brother-in-law is missing in the war, suspected as a german spy. Eva Ryder is a beautiful young woman who dreamt to be a dancer, lost her dream due to bomb raid and came to Cornwell to work as a code sender and receiver in a top secret military base. Hazel Bexter lives in Cornwell with an abusive husband and her son. Her husband went to the war and Hazel took job at the military base with help of her childhood sweetheart. Their life intertwined at this place and the story begins at their worst of times and good of moments.

Wartime with the Cornish Girls is a beautiful example of ' Women supporting women' and I love how the author took some opportunity to use reallife support examples. When Violet's niece got molested by her uncle, violet immediately took action against it and assured her niece that in no ways it is her fault. I really love that part where by reading it, I am sure many young people will learn to stand up and stop accusing themselves in any kind of misfortunes.

The individual story of three women is really fascinating and I do kinda want to read more about them. Hazel's story attracted me the most, I somehow can relate to her dilemmas more. On the other hand, the character Eva got very less light to be shining on the stage in my opinion.

The author showed the vulnerable side of the women but she did not forget to give them chances to flourish and her characters certainly took the chance. It would be great if we can have a bit more view of the natural side of southern England and could see the city girl's perspective more.

I do like it and this is an almost 4-star book for me. there is a sequel coming on and I want to read it to know more about these girls.

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I loved this! All the girls had a different story to tell. Things were very difficult during wartime even in an idyllic place like Cornwall.

It is a well written, well researched book of the period when bombs and enemy planes were ever present. What a frightening , nerve racking times the girls live through but they all had bravery and tenacity to keep going.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series a Christmas story with the Cornish girls which I'm sure which will be just as interesting.

Thank you netgalley.

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Thoroughly enjoyable read, this book is based on life in Cornwall during the Second World War. Plenty of intrigue to keep you turning the pages to discover what will happen next. A book I thoroughly would recommend without hesitation. Looking forward to reading the follow up in this series.
Reviewed in good reads and also a Facebook readers group as above. Sorry, unable to determine how to copy the link in good reads.
https://m.facebook.com/groups/280023530745/permalink/10159480740380746/?ref=content_filter

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This is a pleasure to read. History is best told through the lives of those affected by events and this does exactly that. Violet takes her two nieces whom she cares for to Cornwall after experiencing the devastation of the London blitz . Eva does the same after being injured and losing an American soldier she fancies. Others are there because they work in the secret war bunkers hidden in a Cornwall building. At least there are jobs there to support them in these difficult times. There are several carefully crafted story lines in the book which come together piece by piece. All the characters are credible, the wartime context well constructed and the writing effective in relating the feelings of the characters. It has a rewarding ending too. I recommend it.

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