In early 1940s London, Izzie and her older sister Sylvia are estranged but come together after their mother's death. Izzie had been working hard at her mother's dressmaking shop, Mrs. Shelton’s Fashions. Sylvia chose to marry a wealthy husband and enter the world of high society, distancing herself from her humble beginnings. The sisters are puzzled when they learn their mother left the shop to them both. Izzie is furious. Hoping to buy out her sister, Izzie's plans are delayed when she is conscripted into the WAAF. Sylvia agrees to help but has to keep her involvement a secret from her elitist husband, who appears to be keeping secrets from her too.
Author Julia Kelly has a great talent for transporting readers into whatever period she writes about. The Dressmakers of London, set during World War II, is not a typical war story. It focuses on the two sisters, whose story is often told through letters written between them. The novel also provides a fascinating insight into how the war affected dressmaking. Clothing rationing was implemented to conserve fabric and resources and mandated elements of its design. This is the sixth book I've read by this author. Kelly has a great talent for crafting well-researched, emotional stories about interesting characters, their relationships, and personal growth.
Many thanks to Gallery Books for the advance.
Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Historical Fiction.
Publication Date: February 18, 2025.
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