I was invited to read and review this book, and I accepted the invitation on the premise that the book would be funny and engaging to read. I've not read a book by Helen Simonson before and thought this would be a great introduction to her writings.

The novel takes place post World War I and Spanish Flu pandemic. Constance is occupied with being an old family friend's companion, but soon the friend won't need her and she will need to find a job that pays her. Her friend, Poppy, wants to start a motorcycle-taxi business with all female drivers and mechanics. And Poppy wants to learn to fly. Poppy's brother is a veteran of the war and was a flyer in the war, but he lost his leg on one of his missions. This is a story about Poppy taking Constance under her wing and helping her find her way in an ever-changing world.

I have to say this wasn't my favorite book that I've read this year. I felt the plot was rather stilted and forced, and I had a hard time wading through the book. I'd have to say this is a three-star book.

Random House Publishing Group provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

The period setting is very familiar. The challenges of women’s acceptance in the workplace are familiar. And, the British upperclass “cuts” are familiar to readers of historical fiction. But, Helen Simonson overcomes the obstacle of “ been there, done that” by creating some vibrant and truly memorable characters.

I yearned for a happy ending in this book because a few of the characters genuinely earned it. I wont spoil the book for future readers by stating whether it was achieved, but I also rooted for a come-uppance for a few villainous types that populated the story.

It is hard for a Ww1 era historical novel to plough fresh ground, a and perhaps Ms. Simonson didn’t achieve that. But, what she lost in the familiarity of the themes, she gained in the grit and heart of her characters. It was a very satisfying way to spend Sunday afternoon.

Another Simonson book that I believe will be enjoyed by many readers. It takes place in a coastal area of England in the years following WWI and reflects the changes in society and the changing roles of women during and after the war. This book tells a good story as it depicts a specific time in English and the worlds history

I received a free e-arc copy of this book through Netgalley. I really enjoyed this book. Okay, it's predictable in some ways, but sometimes that is what life needs. It did have some unexpected turns that I appreciated as well. A fun and wholesome read.