Bloomsbury Girls by Natalie Jenner
About the Book:
Natalie Jenner, known for her international bestseller “The Jane Austen Society,” brings us another heartwarming tale set in post-war London. “Bloomsbury Girls” revolves around a century-old bookstore and three women striving to navigate a rapidly changing world.
Bloomsbury Books is a traditional bookstore that has resisted change for a hundred years, managed by men and governed by the general manager’s stringent fifty-one rules. However, in 1950, the literary world is evolving, and the women working at Bloomsbury have their plans:
Vivien Lowry: Stylish and brilliant, Vivien has been single since her aristocratic fiancé died in World War II. She holds many justified grievances, particularly against Alec McDonough, the Head of Fiction.
Grace Perkins: A mother of two, Grace has been supporting her family since her husband’s breakdown after the war. She is torn between her duties at home and her personal aspirations.
Evie Stone: One of the first women from Cambridge allowed to earn a degree, Evie was denied an academic position in favor of a less qualified male rival. Now a staff member at Bloomsbury Books, she’s determined to redefine her future.
As these women cross paths with notable literary figures like Daphne Du Maurier, Ellen Doubleday, Sonia Blair, and Samuel Beckett, they weave a web of relationships, ambitions, and dreams, aspiring for a future more fulfilling than society permits.
Audiobook:
Narrated by the esteemed Juliet Stevenson, the audiobook version of “Bloomsbury Girls” is a treat. Known for her skillful narration, Stevenson delivers the story with finesse, enhancing the book’s charm.
Book Review:
“Bloomsbury Girls” is a beautifully written homage to women writers, bookshops, and book lovers. Natalie Jenner creates an engaging story filled with female friendships, budding romances, and strong female characters striving to succeed in a male-dominated world. The novel is perfect for fans of historical and women’s fiction.
The Story:
Set in 1950s London, “Bloomsbury Girls” follows three women coping with the aftermath of World War II. While working at an old-fashioned bookstore, they dream of better lives despite societal obstacles. Evie Stone, denied an academic role because she’s a woman, joins Bloomsbury Books with Vivien and Grace. Together, they plot to transform their futures.
Sequel Information:
“Bloomsbury Girls” is a sequel to “The Jane Austen Society,” focusing on Evie Stone a few years after the events of the first book. Though it references characters from the previous novel, it stands alone, making it unnecessary to read the first book to enjoy this one.
Overall Thoughts:
“Bloomsbury Girls” is a delightful read for lovers of historical fiction and literary history. The book’s feminist themes and touches of romance make it all the more engaging. Whether you read it or listen to the audiobook, Natalie Jenner’s gripping tale is a must-read.
Adaptation Idea:
“Bloomsbury Girls” would work wonderfully as a period drama series, similar to “The Paradise” or “Mr. Selfridge,” set in a 1950s bookstore. It could also be a captivating standalone film or limited series. The rich narrative and dynamic characters translate well to different media formats.
Content Note:
The book contains no graphic content. Some love scenes are implied but occur behind closed doors.
