This is a wonderfully evocative tale set during WWII in the East End of London, revolving around the Yardley girls who worked on the lipstick line in the factory and whose ‘duty’ it was to look glamorous, putting their best face forward in dark times.

It’s a beautifully written and well researched book. I was totally immersed in all the characters’ lives - I loved each and every one! The author has done a brilliant job in creating and bringing them to life. There is humour as well as sadness and the British fighting spirit really comes to the fore. The story touches on a variety of issues which kept me engaged and entertained throughout. It brought to mind memories of my mother telling me how she did her bit for the war effort, working part time for the fire service and also helping out in the forces’ canteen alongside her sister. Where would this country have been without women like these?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a tale which shows our determination to survive, to stand up for what is right and to put one foot in front of the other with a brave smile on our faces in the darkest of times. I can highly recommend it to social history fans. Don’t forget to read the author’s notes at the end - so interesting - and the wartime beauty tips make essential reading! 😊💄 ( )