73 Dove Street by Julie Owen Moylan

When Edie Budd arrives at a shabby West London boarding house in October 1958, carrying nothing except a broken suitcase and an envelope full of cash, it’s clear she’s hiding a terrible secret.
And she’s not the only one; the other women of 73 Dove Street have secrets of their own . . .

Tommie, who lives on the second floor, waits on the eccentric Mrs Vee by day. After dark, she harbours an addiction to seedy Soho nightlife – and a man she can’t quit.

Phyllis, 73 Dove Street’s formidable landlady, has set fire to her husband’s belongings after discovering a heart-breaking betrayal – yet her fierce bravado hides a past she doesn’t want to talk about.
At first, the three women keep to themselves.

But as Edie’s past catches up with her, Tommie becomes caught in her web of lies – forcing her to make a decision that will change everything . . .

Thank you to Hannah at Midas PR for a proof copy of 73 Dove Street and an invitation to join the blog tour. Today is the penultimate day and I’ve enjoyed reading the thoughts of the other reviewers.

This is a story about three women in 1958 who are facing serious challenges. Edie has arrived at 73 Dove Street without her husband but with an envelope of cash and covered in bruises. What is she scared of?

Tommie rents a room at 73 Dove Street when she isn’t working for an elderly lady or going to Soho. Why is she drawn to a bombed out house nearby?

Phyllis has kicked out her husband on the day Edie arrives after finding him undressed with another tenant. Is it time for her to make some changes?

This is a powerful story, looking at difficult topics. There is a rollercoaster of emotions for the reader – including sadness, anger and hope. The book is beautifully written, Julie shares little pieces of information about each character in turn, so that the reader starts to understand why they are in the situation they are in now.

The book was published on Thursday and I’m happy to recommend it. This is the first book I’ve read by Julie Owen Moyles and I look forward to reading more in the future.