1945 and the war is drawing to a close. For three years, the land girls at Post Stone Farm have worked together, defying Hitler in their own way. They have witnessed love and loss, found their independence, and made lifetime friends. Her years as warden of a Land Army hostel have transformed Alice Todds life. From damaged, deserted wife, she has emerged self-confident and ambitious. With peacetime approaching, she must now decide on her future and decide if it includes Roger Bayliss, the enigmatic farm owner to whom she is increasingly drawn.
Dive into the heartwarming and poignant world of post-war England with Julia Stoneham's "Alice's Girls," a captivating historical romance that celebrates female friendship, resilience, and the blossoming of new beginnings. Published in 2014 by Allison and Busby, this 288-page paperback edition offers a compelling escape to 1945, where the echoes of war mingle with the promise of peace. For three long years, the women of Post Stone Farm's Land Army have toiled side-by-side, contributing their strength and spirit to the war effort. Far from the front lines, these "land girls" have found their own battleground a struggle for independence, a haven for camaraderie, and a stage for both heartbreaking loss and enduring love. Stoneham paints a vivid picture of rural England, where the scent of freshly turned earth blends with the determination in these women's eyes. At the heart of the story is Alice Todd, the warden of the Land Army hostel. Alice's transformation is truly inspiring. Once a "damaged, deserted wife," the war years have forged in her a newfound self-confidence and a burning ambition. Now, as the war draws to its welcome close, Alice stands at a crossroads. The future stretches before her, uncertain yet full of potential. She must decide what she wants from life, what path she will forge for herself in this new world. And then there's Roger Bayliss, the enigmatic farm owner. A quiet strength and a hidden vulnerability draw Alice to him, but their connection is complicated by the unspoken emotions of wartime and the uncertainties of the future. Will Alice risk her newfound independence for a chance at love with Roger? "Alice's Girls" is more than just a romance; it's a celebration of the unsung heroines of World War II. It's a story of women finding strength in each other, of overcoming adversity, and of daring to dream of a brighter tomorrow. Julia Stoneham's writing is evocative and engaging, transporting readers to a time of both hardship and hope. Perfect for fans of historical fiction, wartime stories, and tales of strong female characters, "Alice's Girls" is a touching and unforgettable read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. It will appeal to those who enjoy authors like Lesley Pearse and Pam Jenoff. Explore the themes of love, loss, and liberation within the pages of this compelling novel. Discover why readers have praised Stoneham's ability to create relatable and inspiring characters. This particular 2014 edition brings the story to life with its tangible paperback format, offering a comforting and immersive reading experience.