Posy Lovell

The Kew Gardens Girls at War is Posy Lovell's new novel. I can't seem to get enough of WWII historical reads.

Settling in, I thought that Lovell might have already written a book set in Kew Gardens. I did a quick check and saw that yes, she has written one set in the WWI years at the Gardens. (I've added it to my teetering TBR pile.) But there's no need to have read that book before reading The Kew Gardens Girls at War.

I liked the premise - which is based on historical fact. ("Kew Gardens is now officially home to the largest living plant collection on earth.") In the war years, a showpiece Victory Garden was grown, showing how even a small patch could feed a family year round. But, I didn't know about the County Herb Committees which were nationwide medicinal plant collecting committees. I really liked the descriptions of the gardens and the veggie plots. A great setting. Lovell's descriptions of war torn London also brought the setting to life.

But, the best bit of all is the characters. Daisy and Beth are our leading characters. They're both from very different backgrounds, with different goals and are at different stages of life. But they hit it off and become fast friends. The supporting cast brings in a number of strong personalities, who change the narrative with their actions as well.

Lovell captures the Keep Calm and Soldier On attitude of the Brits in wartimes. Needs must and you just have to get on with things. But there are wounds don't show as well. Lovell brings some serious issues into her story, including shell shock and racism.

The Kew Gardens Girls at War is a warm, caring, comfortable read that celebrates family, fortitude, friends and yes, romance.… (mais)

Set during WWI, this book follows Ivy, Louisa and, Bernie gardeners at the Kew Royal Botanical Gardens. Louisa and Ivy, suffragettes have opposite views on wartime service and how the suffragettes should focus their time. Bernie, a religious man, is a conscience objector, and finds himself targeted and forced into hiding.

This was an interesting story with well developed characters. I really enjoyed reading about the suffragette activities, and the differing opinions within their ranks. My only criticism is that everything ended up a bit too perfect for a wartime story. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.… (mais)