I'm always excited to hear that Mary Wood has a new book coming out and even more so when it's the first book of a trilogy. I love meeting new characters and immersing myself in their lives.
In The Orphanage Girls we meet Ruth, Amy and Ellen who all reside in Bethnal Green's infamous orphanage. Life is full of horrors for the girls and Ruth dreams of a better life outside the confines of the dark walls, so she spends a lot of time plotting her escape. However, when her plans finally come to fruition, she quickly realises that she's going to have her work cut out for her if she's going to survive. Luckily with the kindness of strangers, she makes new friends but she can't forget her old ones, Amy and Ellen, who she left behind.
Oh my days, Mary knows how to take her readers on an emotional roller coaster! My heart went out to so many characters in this book for so many different reasons. Aside from Ruth, Rebekah was by far my favourite character as she brought such a huge splash of colour and vibrancy into everything. Her love for Ruth, initally a young and troubled stranger, who arrives unnanounced on her doorstep one day, absolutely shone through. Not only does she provide a home for Ruth, she also shares her vast array of knowledge from her own country in the hope that this will enable Ruth to stand on her own two feet in the future.
This is a story about love, friendship and community but also the darker sides of humanity with things like racism and abuse rearing their ugly heads. That said, these issues are sadly relevant and only add to the sense of realism that comes with this author's outstanding writing.
The Orphanage Girls is another impressive book from one of my all time favourite authors and I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment so that I can be transported back into their world. A highly recommended, must read book, for all fans of historical fiction and saga's.
With kind thanks to Anne Cater at Random Things and author Mary Wood for my review copy.
Oh, Neats, once again you have supported me and in an exceptional way - your review captures the heart of my book - the issues that are so important to me, the vividness, the struggles and the emotions of the lives of my much loved characters and the pain inflicted by my despised ones. Reviews don't get much better, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel as though I have been hugged. Thank you, sending a hug to you, much love, Mary xxx
ReplyDeleteAs always it's an absolute pleasure to read one of your books Mary. I always have mixed emotions at the end - sadness that I've finished it but happy with the knowledge that there will be more to follow. Sending you a big hug your way x x
DeleteAnother great review for a great author x
ReplyDeleteI love when Mary has a new book because I know that ad soon as I open the first page I'll be lost in it. Heaven!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog of a truly great book
ReplyDeleteI love when Mary has a new book because I know that when I open the first page I'll be lost, heaven !
ReplyDeleteThank you Neats this is fabulous
ReplyDeleteFantastic review, next on my reading list.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely introduction about yourself neatly happy book worming
ReplyDeleteCannot wait for this to add to my collection. They never fail to have me hooked on the story and binge read.
ReplyDeleteKeep these books coming, you are a fantastic author
Brilliant review for a wonderful author! Thank you Neats!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to read about Ruth, Amy and Ellen. The orphanage sounds grim
ReplyDeleteThis book is a must for all Mary Wood fans and I can't wait to start reading the first in the trilogy. Tissues, I think, will be needed close at hand though as we follow Ruth on her journey.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great review! Mary's books never dissapoint!
ReplyDeleteI can’t wait to read Mary’s new book! Will keep tissues at the ready!
ReplyDeleteExcellent review looking forward to reading this book
ReplyDeleteFabulous review Neats! Thanks 👍
ReplyDeleteLovely review looking forward to reading this new series
ReplyDeleteFabulous review. My to read list grows ever longer. Love the name of your blog!!
ReplyDeleteComment on behalf of Glenys Wane - I love Mary Wood/Maggie Masons books and am looking forward to reading the new one. xx
ReplyDeleteNext book on my tbr pile!!
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