Alice Diamond is the Queen of the Forty Elephants, a gang of women who steal from people instead of getting money through legitimate means. This gang used whatever means necessary to commit their crimes. When Hira, a young girl, becomes homeless, she is inserted into the gang’s plans. Fans of historical fiction who enjoy reading about spicy and powerful women will enjoy this one. Although a little slow building at first, the second half of the book found me quickly turning pages!

We meet four wonderful characters, and characters you will love even though one is on the wrong side of the law part-time and one full-time.

You will love Hira, a 10-year-old who ran away from a life of luxury at her unloving, cruel uncle’s house, just because of her innocence about not knowing what was really out there outside of her lovely upbringing.

You will love Alice just because she’s a feisty woman in the 1920s and head of a gang of women who steal to survive.

You will love Lillian, a police woman from Scotland Yard, who is trying her best to show the men that she can do what they do, and even do it better.

You will love Dorothy, an unassuming, but talented clerk in a department store who is kind and generous especially to Hira.

Queens of London will capture your interest immediately because of the setting, the time period, the characters, and the interest about these women called The Forty Elephants and what they do.

You won’t know who to root for because they are all likable characters, but I was sort of leaning toward Hira, because she didn’t know what she had gotten herself into after leaving her uncle's house even though she knew it would be worse where he was going to send her.

Dorothy was also a favorite because she was a sweetheart, and I hoped she would be able to get her designs noticed.

I knew Heather Webb would not disappoint.

Her books are always amazing...terrific writing and interest-keeping storyline.

Her research is impeccable.

Based on real characters, THE QUEENS OF LONDON will be enjoyed by historical fiction fans and fans of life in London at this time.

ENJOY the antics, sorrows, and lives of the characters!!

Be sure to read the author’s notes for more information. 5/5

Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

ᴍᴀʏʙᴇ ᴡᴏᴍᴇɴ ᴄᴀɴ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ɪᴛ ᴀʟʟ, ᴀꜱ ʟᴏɴɢ ᴀꜱ ᴛʜᴇʏ’ʀᴇ ᴡɪʟʟɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ ɪᴛ.

This book will stand tall beside some of my top reads of the year!

🛒𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙚𝙩: a completely absorbing and utterly fascinating story of sisterhood set in London’s underworld and featuring Britain’s first female crime syndicate.

By nature, I’m such a rule follower. I crave organization. However, I love the opposite in my book friends. These Queens of London break rules and are less than perfect, yet they pulled at my heartstrings and allowed me to see the other side of justice and loyalty.

Four wonderfully crafted characters (who came alive on the pages ) held my interest:

✔️𝐇𝐢𝐫𝐚 𝐖𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐦
my favourite
10-year-old innocent and desperate orphan on the run
has a cute sidekick, a dog named Biscuit

✔️𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐌𝐜𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞
a clever, generous, and underestimated clerk at Marshall & Snelgrove Department Store

✔️𝐋𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐲𝐥𝐞𝐬
ambitious female policeman with a bunch of ‘firsts’ to her name, a lot to prove, and a soft heart which she keeps well hidden

✔️𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 ‘𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐞’ 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝
focused and determined queen of The Forty Elephants, a female shoplifting gang, who becomes the target of Britain’s first female policewoman

It’s not just about the antics of The Forty Elephants, it’s about what happens when we lose control, what we do when we have nobody to trust, how we feel when we are forced to do what we have to in order to survive, how the thrill of not being caught can be contagious, and about the drive women have to claim power by any means necessary.

I absolutely loved this story about tough girls from humble beginnings who learned to take the law into their own hands and make things go their way. The principle of 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 was an important thread that sparkled throughout the narrative. Hira, Dorothy and Alice hadn’t seen much of it in their own lives, so they learn to create justice. I was rooting for these four characters as they sought out justice for themselves. When Alice refers to the twisted and symbiotic relationship between criminals and the police, it gave me pause and I was watching for it as I read. When Alice and Lilian test this bond one dark night in an alley, I was anxious to see what would follow. Webb gives readers plenty to think about.

“Sometimes a woman looks out for her own. Even if they’re not from the same … school of thought.”

I also appreciated the thread of 𝙡𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙮 that ran parallel to justice. Diamond Annie demanded loyalty. In fact, the success of her endeavours demanded it. Her motto was “family first, above all else.” Hira, Dorothy and Lilian grapple with their loyalty and I loved seeing the growth that resulted.

Make sure this winner is on your TBR list in the new year!

I was gifted this copy by Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

I loved how this book showcased strong female characters, especially in a historical fiction. I really appreciated Annie's character and although complex, she was very compelling, and this book was well written. Heather was able to bring this book to life and it was so different from any other books I've read. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to check out more books from this author! 4 1/2 stars!!

Queens of London by Heather Webb takes you on a journey through 1925 in London. We meet Alice Diamond aka “Diamond Annie” who is Queen of the Forty Elephants, an all-girl gang. She is street smart, intelligent and a fierce leader in her crowd. They stole from middle scale shops and resold their 'goods' in the lower end of London, offering the 'goods' to women and girls that could afford them.
Then we meet Dorothy who works in one of the shops, hoping to have her own design line someday. Dorothy foolishly believes these girls are her friends. But Alice is planning a big heist, and Dorothy has the keys she needs to pull it off. But no spoilers here.
There were definitely two Queens of London, the other is Officer Lilian Wyles, a female detective, who wanted to be known for more than just a woman in 1925 who wanted to bring this group down.
I loved this story and really enjoyed reading about these tough and vulnerable women!!
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2024

I love a well-drawn underdog, and in Queens of London you get not one, not two, not three, but four! Set in London after WWI, these featured characters—gang leader Diamond Annie, department store clerk Dorothy, orphan Hira, and Scotland Yard Detective Lilian Wyles—are all underdogs.

Based on a real all-girl gang called The Forty Elephants, Diamond Annie led the female thieves in shoplifting raids of quality stores in London’s West End. She may have been my favorite character because she was equally likeable and detestable. Author Heather Webb did a fantastic job of presenting the reader with fully-developed characters and not stereotypes.

The theme of misogyny was equally well-crafted and a large part of why these four characters were all underdogs. The detective was also based on a real historical figure, Chief Inspector Lilian Wyles was the first woman to serve as a fully attested, ranking officer in the Criminal Investigation Department, having already been among the first women to serve in the "Women Police" instituted after the first World War. I wish the author would write another novel based solely on her. I think she’s got many stories to tell.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an advance copy.

It’s 1925 in London and Alice Diamond aka “Diamond Annie” is elected Queen of the Forty Elephants, an all-girl gang. Annie is ambitious and tough and has always been able to shy away from law enforcement, but that might be changing thanks to Britain’s first female policewoman.

Officer Lilian Wyles is not only a policewoman, she’s of one of the best detectives on the force, and she’s determined to bring the Forty Elephants down. When she hears about a large heist in the works, she thinks this is her shot to get them and finally put the gang out of business permanently.

I always love reading about strong women throughout history, and this book was a fun and different take because Annie Diamond was the leader of a crime syndicate – the Forty Elephants. While I know female gangs exist, it isn’t something I had ever read a book about, and that is what lead me to originally pick this book up. Thankfully, I was not disappointed and was captivated by the writing. Annie was such an interesting and complex character, and she was written in a very compelling, real way. I felt like I was getting to know her like I would a friend. The whole story was well written and very vividly done. The imagery was strong and descriptive, and I felt transported into the story. Once I got into it, I really didn’t want to put it down and I couldn’t wait to see how things resolved themselves.

I think fans of historical fiction, women in history, and just readers in general will enjoy this one.

Thank you so much Sourcebooks Landmark, @bookmarked and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

How have I never read Heather Webb before now? This book was an interesting look at the first female crime syndicate in post WWI London. All the characters were written in a way you wanted to root for them, even Diamond Annie. There are also a few other major characters not mentioned in the synopsis and one stole my heart. This one is unputdownable and you will not regret reading. Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. I didn't read too much of the synopsis before reading, but once learning what it was about, I was really into it. Reading about these women and what they did behind closed doors was fascinating!

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC. I actually got two books about the same topic at the same time. I had already read one before so if you haven't ready anything about Alice Diamond then this is the book for you ! Its a good story!

I recently had the pleasure of delving into a captivating novel that not only transported me through time but also celebrated the resilience and strength of women. The narrative's ability to intertwine historical settings with a powerful portrayal of female characters left a lasting impact on me.

As I turned the pages, I found myself seamlessly transported back in time, walking the streets of London alongside characters who came alive with each passing chapter. The author's vivid descriptions allowed me to vividly relive my own recent visit to London, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.

What struck me most was the depth of the female characters. Their stories unfolded with a richness that resonated, and their strength became a guiding thread throughout the narrative. The author skillfully explored the nuances of womanhood, making the characters not only relatable but empowering in their own unique ways.

During my time with the book, I encountered moments that lingered in my thoughts long after I closed its covers. Scenes that mirrored my experiences in London heightened my connection to the story, making it an immersive and personal journey.

In conclusion, this novel is a masterful blend of historical immersion and empowering storytelling. If you appreciate time-travel narratives and a celebration of strong, resilient women, this book is a must-read. It's an experience that transcends the pages, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the strength found in both history and womanhood.

Thank you to Net Galley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the chance to read and review this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is another wonderful book by Heather Webb! This story takes place in the criminal world of 1920's London. The leader of an all-female gang called the Forty Elephants is Diamond Annie. This group mostly shoplifts and then fences the merchandise. On the other hand, we have Lilian Wyles, a struggling member of the women's Corp of the Metropolitan Police. She is trying to capture Diamond Annie and build up her reputation as a capable police officer. I enjoyed this story, and learning about how hard women had it at this time. Lots of interesting characters, and a good story.

Alice Diamond, alias Diamond Annie, is queen of the Forty Elephants. She is that rare combination of street smart and great intelligence. Alice has rules that carry swift response to any and all who break them. In return she offers the girls stability and income in a time in history when women were undervalued and underestimated. Two things Alice understood and worked to her advantage. Alice ran her syndicate like a well tuned watch. They stole from middle scale shops and resold in the lower end of London. Offering goods to women and girls they could afford and looked forward to every season. Dorothy works in one of the shops , hoping to have her own design line someday. Dorothy foolishly believes these girls are her friends. Dorothy also believes the store manager when he seduces and says he loves her. Alice is planning a big heist, and Dorothy has the keys she needs to pull it off. No spoilers here. I will say to the last page Alice remains Alice seeing the world from every angle. Happy reading

Get a close-up of the criminal underbelly of 1920s London-- through the women's lives. Tough, fierce Diamond Annie, aka Alice, is the queen of the criminal gang the Forty Elephants; Lilian Wyles is her equally tough opposite in London's struggling women's corp of the Metropolitan Police. Half-Indian 11-year-old Hira is caught between the two, after she runs away from (to her eyes) a miserable Mayfair home and ends up on the streets. Webb skillfully brings to life what a woman's lot was like during the period.

A fresh story written about a real life female gang of thieves in a poverty stricken area of London, the Forty Elephants, and their queen, “Diamond Annie” aka Alice, in 1925. We are told the story from several points of view, Alice herself, a female detective, Lilian (one of the first female detectives in that area), Dorothy, a shopgirl in a department store targeted by Alice and her gang, and a young runaway, Hira, who befriends Alice.
I found the story to be well written and was fascinated by the tale of this female crime ring. I enjoyed the characters and even felt sorry for Alice- yes, the fierce ringleader!-at times. She definitely had a tender side, but her desire for complete independence and toughness trumped all. Hira’s character was also well defined and I felt quite emotional for her and the situation she was in.
This was my first stand alone book written by Heather Webb. My first time reading her work was a collaborative book she wrote and I truly enjoyed both. I look forward to future books by her.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book. All thoughts in this review are my own opinions.

Queens of London written by the absolute queen of historical fiction Heather Webb! Loved everything about this one. Fascinating characters and an interesting storyline. Make some time for this one because you won't want to do anything else but read! A huge thank you to Source books Landmark and NetGalley for this ARC. 5 stars from me.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC !
The Queens of London by Heather Webb will be out in the world on Feb 6 2024!
Heathers book draws us in to the London underworld after WWI.
A team of lady thieves attempt to plan and carry out a huge jewelry heist. Based on a true all female shoplifting gang, Heather takes us into the dark parts of London along with showing us the glitz and glitter emerging after the war. These ladies, led by their Queen, Alice Diamond have their own unique problems and Alice must be secure in their abilities if she is to successfully carry off the jewelry heist!
Great intro into a true gang and a look into the seedier side of life!

This book takes readers on a fascinating journey through the life of a London women's gang in the 1920s, providing a unique look at the early stages of the feminist movement. Morality, paternalism, and multiple perspectives are major themes that will leave you questioning many sides of each story. I wasn't previously aware of Diamond Annie and her gang and greatly enjoyed diving into this novel.

This is a fascinating book about an all women’s gang in London during the 1920’s. Readers will enjoy being immersed into the beginnings of the feminist movement as seen through the lens of gangs, police officers and shop workers. The intersectional stories of Diamond Annie and her gang, little Hira, and Officer Lilian will have you questioning your loyalties as you decide who to root for! Morality and paternalism are major themes in this book and you will find yourself seeing many sides to different stories! I have never read or heard about Diamond Annie and her gang and really enjoyed living inside this novel for a while, Thanks to NetGalley for a ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Heather Webb’s The Queens of London is a fictional account of the woman gang known as The Forty Elephants whose heyday was in the 1920s. Her research shows that all the gangs she refers to in the novel were in existence, that Alice Diamond, leader of The Forty Elephants (also known as The Forty Thieves) was a real person with an empire covering London, Brighton and Bristol and she had a real romance with another gang leader, Bert McDonald. Webb provides Alice with another romance, based on a mention of ‘Simon’ in her research which may or may not be fictionalised. However, true, too, is the depiction Lilian Wyles, one of the first female police officers in the Criminal Investigations Department, and one of the first woman chief inspectors. Her role in the capture of Alice is fictional, but an important adjunct to the story of women making their way, although rather differently, in the hierarchies of law and crime in 1920s England. The Queens of London makes a tremendous read, with its commitment to women’s cause, recognition of their failures and reasons for these, and sensitive approach to racism in the period – again with women at the centre of the story.

Two other woman characters are fictional – Hira and Dorothy McBride. Hira lives in splendour with her uncle, her governess and servants; Dorothy is a salesperson at Marshall & Snelgrove – the store that Alice and her gang have just divested of silk lingerie, jewellery and furs amongst the many luxury items stuffed into the gang’s clothing and reticules as Dorothy has served Alice, a seemingly legitimate customer. Hira and Alice are to meet as Hira leaves home upon learning she is to be set to boarding school. Hira becomes a waif on the streets and is taken into the gang. Hira and Dorothy also meet under unhappy circumstances also, as Hira becomes embroiled in the gang’s activities. Complexity is added to their stories as Dorothy is pursued by the store’s owner and dreams of marriage and Hera’s parentage becomes apparent. She is the child of an officer in India and his Indian wife.

Webb weaves a beguiling story around these seemingly simple elements – a gang queen, a shop assistant with dreams, a runaway child, and a police officer. However, the main features of the story are not so simple, and the complexity, along with the social commentary Webb interweaves with the characters, their aspirations and environments is adroit. Alice’s home life is instrumental in her desire to become and remain the queen of the gang, her fictional romance being at odds with this determination and leading her into speculation about her past and future. As well as being the dupe of the store owner Dorothy designs women’s clothing of merit. Hira’s parentage and her uncle’s treatment of her raise the racial issues that are dealt with by Webb with sensitivity and understanding. Hira’s introduction to Indian cuisine and clothing is a lovely recognition of the sumptuousness of her culture. Lilian Wiles’ story is also that of the introduction of women into the police force, their aspirations, the sexism they faced and the work they undertook.

The Queens of London is an excellent read. The combination of fact and fiction works well, and the social commentary woven throughout the story is a valuable addition to a story that is at once, lively, poignant and engaging.