Poor Girls

1920s, post-war Britain is in the midst of a depression when Eleanor (Nell) finds herself drawn into a daring and dangerous enterprise at once making her feel thrilled and alive. Dazzled by the glitz and excesses of 1920s clubs, cars, dresses, furs and jewels, Nell is determined to reinvent herself as a ballsy, confident, glamorous woman, even if it means leaving her much-loved family behind. Combining real people like Alice Diamond, Queen of the Forty Elephants with fictional but very believable and sympathetic characters, Poor Girls' reflects on the limited opportunities and prejudice faced by women in post war 1920s Britain, particularly if born poor. The argument is made that luxury goods are seductive (insured) and so deserving of being stolen and sold on and that financial security shouldn't only be enjoyed by the wealthy few whose wealth has come from inheritance or through the hard labour and servitude of others. Clare Whitfield writes about the controlling side of being a member of the gang but slightly glosses over the darker side of gang culture emphasising the sisterhood and empowerment instead. That said, this was an enjoyable read which I would recommend. Kate Atkinson's 'Shrines of Gaiety' is a brilliant read if you enjoyed this book.

Set in 1920s London, this intriguing tale is a wonderful piece of historical fiction.
I have previously read a non-fiction book on the notorious female gang named the Forty Elephants, which feature in this story.....so my interest in the theme of this novel was willing it to be great....and I was not disappointed.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable read.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️

another hit from Clare!
this book follows Eleanor as she tries to cope with her life following 'The War' (World War One) and deals with her sudden lack of freedom after having a job and independence during the war.
she's working at the Grand Hotel in Brighton when a mysterious man draws her interest, and then her ire as he drops her in hot water with hotel staff. from there, she's drawn into a diamond dazzling world of intrigue and drama in the crime hotspot of London.
I loved this book! it was so fun to read a previously unknown side of history, especially when it's inspired by real people. there was a wealth of lovely descriptions, and I adored the showing of different characterisations of people within the scope of that world. this, combined with the horrors that many people of that generation faced (as well as how blasé many characters were when disclosing and discussing such topics) and how it developed characters and their personalities were wonderful to read and enjoy.
I'll definitely be snagging a copy of this when it's out in paperback for my collection, and I'm so excited to see the cover reveal when that happens!

Eleanor Mackridge, a 20-year-old woman, is appalled by the conventional future laid out for her: to either serve the upper classes or secure a husband. Having worked in a munitions factory during the war, handling explosives, she now finds herself in a society eager to revert to traditional gender roles, relegating women to their former positions. However, Eleanor has always defied societal expectations. When she encounters a member of the infamous female-led gang, the Forty Elephants, she is captivated by these audacious women who adorn themselves in diamonds and fur, indulge in champagne and gin, and take what they desire without seeking permission. She begins to envision a new future for herself—one where she can choose to serve, marry, or steal.

Contrary to the adage that blood is thicker than water, Nell believed otherwise. For her, money was the only reliable constant, and diamonds were even more so. Yet, it wasn't the wealth that enticed her; it was the excitement, the sense of purpose, the camaraderie, and the thrill that she craved.

After a difficult decision and a poignant farewell to her family, the journey back to London became a painful transformation. Eleanor Mackridge ceased to exist along the way, metaphorically killed by Machete Mack. In her place emerged Nell the Mack. The old Eleanor, too delicate for this harsh world, had not foreseen this metamorphosis, but it was ultimately for the best. Rest in peace, Eleanor Mackridge. Long live Nell the Mack.

Throughout the narrative, we encounter a host of vibrant characters—brave, liberated women who, by societal standards, appear to take the easier path. The writing style immediately engages the reader, and the novel is replete with action and tension, culminating in an ending that complements the story's rhythm.

This book is both fascinating and challenging, as some characters are inspired by real individuals. It is crucial to approach their portrayal with respect and accuracy. The story is based on extensive research into the real women of the Forty Elephants and explores a frequently overlooked period in our history, between the two world wars.

These women's stories offer profound insights into the socio-economic landscape of their time. Their narratives are significant, authentic, complex, and warrant being heard. It is essential to consider all individuals, regardless of their background or status, with empathy and compassion, as well as a critical eye, in our collective history.

I was excited to see Clare Whitfield release a new book, after enjoying her previous novel, People Of Abandoned Character. Poor Girls did not disappoint: it's a whipsmart novel that balances a fast paced Peaky-Blinders-For-Women crime caper with nuanced social commentary about the changing role of women in inter war society. I absolutely inhaled it and wish I had more stars to give.

Eleanor Mackeridge is a former munitions worker, current waitress, struggling at being put back into a box after doing meaningful work during WW1. After a (not so?) romantic tryst with a male gangster she finds herself recruited to an all female gang of shoplifters, the Forties or Forty Elephants. While her romance with the gangster is shortlived, Nell finds real sisterhood with her cell of shoplifters, and their female friendship is the central "love story" of the novel.

Nell is a dynamic and likeable character: even when she's scared her instinct is to face things head on. I strongly recommend this book for anyone who likes morally grey female characters. However, Clare Whitfield doesn't shy away from the nastier realities of the time: on two occasions Nell is pushed into actions that ruin lives, one of which is truly heinous. While she carries a great deal of guilt about it, this may still be off putting for someone who wants a morally uncomplicated Robin Hood type protagonist who only steals from people who "deserve it." But omitting the harsher realities would do a disservice to the real history the story is based on. From the afterword, regarding the real women of the Forty Elephants: " Their stories are important, authentic, complex and deserve to be heard. All people, regardless of their origin or status, must be considered with empathy and compassion, as well as critique in our collective history."

Wow this is the second time ive read a novel about the forty elephants, totally unconnected, this far surpasses the first in terms of a great story. Nell is an unhinged heroine and the novel is unputdownable. Reads like a dream, has got me interested in this author. Excellent

I’ll admit it’s weird reading a book where the character has your name 😂, but Eleanor soon became Nell and it was less strange! Eleanor was a great main character. Her naïveté around the Forty Elephants allowed us to learn as she did and explore the new world. Some of her actions felt a little random, like she was acting without thinking things through.

I loved the descriptions of the 1920s settings and locations across the book, they were wonderful to read. It felt immersive to the world, and situated the story in its context. The story did a really good job at exploring the social and economic situations of women during the 20s. The different women’s stories felt authentic, complex and unique from one another.

Poor Girls was a great read, and I enjoyed its authenticity and how it was inspired by real individuals. I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction novels, and strong female characters.

I absolutely adored this book. I love books which are based on real life & especially stories about the forty thieves/forty elephants.

It's 1922 and Eleanor, after a stint working in the munitions factory during the war doesn't want to serve or marry but instead make her own way in the world. At home in Brighton she crosses paths with someone connected to the Forty Elephants, the real life all woman gang of thieves who operate in London and the south coast, she feels a spark, an awakening..

She changes her name to Nell and moves to London to become part of a cell of women who steal. I absolutely devoured this book which has been meticulously researched. I loved the characters including real life ones. Fabulous 5*

In the last few days I found myself transported back in time to the glittering yet gritty world of 1920s London. Clare Whitfield’s Poor Girls is a rollicking romp through the jazz age, following the bold and brazen Nell as she trades her mundane life for the intoxicating allure of thievery with the infamous Forty Elephants gang. Think Ocean's Eight, but with flapper dresses and a dash of Downton Abbey drama.

Elenore, our intrepid protagonist, transforms into Nell—a woman who finds freedom and excitement in a life of crime. And oh, what crimes they are! With her newfound partners in plunder—Effie, Lily, and Charlie—Nell learns the art of the heist. These ladies don’t just shoplift; they elevate it to an art form, swiping everything from luxurious furs to sparkling diamonds with a flair that would make even the most seasoned con artist blush.

Effie, unpredictable and wild, is the beating heart of their operation, bringing a sense of danger and thrill that keeps you turning the pages. Lily, with her sharp wit and charm, navigates the societal norms they flaunt so daringly, while Charlie, the quiet mastermind, ensures their escapades are as successful as they are audacious.

But Poor Girls isn’t just about the thefts; it’s about the women behind them. Whitfield crafts a narrative that delves into their desires, fears, and the unbreakable bond they share. These are not just criminals; they are complex, compelling characters whose stories are as richly textured as the stolen goods they covet.

As I closed the book, I couldn’t help but wonder: in a world that often feels like it's rigged against us, is there a little bit of Nell in all of us? Are we all searching for that thrilling escape from the ordinary, the chance to rewrite our own stories?

So, dear readers, if you're looking to inject a little excitement into your summer reading list, look no further than Poor Girls. It’s a dazzling dance through a bygone era, full of heart, hustle, and a healthy dose of rebellion. And remember, sometimes the greatest treasures aren’t the ones you steal—they’re the ones you discover within yourself.

Until next time, keep your friends close, your diamonds closer, and never underestimate the power of a good heist.

I really enjoyed reading this book and found the concept quite refreshing and exciting. This is the first book of this author’s and of this type that I have read and I will definitely be seeking out more.

The main character was introduced quickly and efficiently in quite an authentic and believable way. Despite being a young woman who had worked to help the war efforts and living in the 1920s, the author managed to make her wholly relatable and witty. The character’s journey throughout the book felt authentic and, despite her actions not being entirely relatable to the standard reader, it was easy to empathise with her.

I was hooked very early on in the book and the pacing felt natural and well thought out, introducing the character and her background before throwing her into the beginning of the plot. I enjoyed watching how Eleanor slowly transitioned into Nell and understanding how this could happen. The three friends she made were well thought out characters with depth and clear differences, meaning they didn’t feel like side characters existing for the sake of the plot. The fact that I would eagerly read spin offs based on all three of these girls demonstrates how well-rounded their characters are.

The area where the book lost a star for me was how it felt that the pacing slowed drastically towards the last third. At that point I was very invested in Nell’s story but it began to feel as though some of the minor plots were for filler purposes.

Overall I found this to be a fascinating read and I felt satisfied with how the story played out. I would definitely recommend this and will be reading more by this author.

"Girls like us have no way of working our way to a life worth having in this country, the rich have no intention of sharing." Poor Girls by Clare Whitfield is a rollicking read about the intersection of gender and class in 1920s London. Fresh from the First World War, women are thrust back into their places with work in munitions factories dried up and they're expected to return to passive home-life—"whatever wallpapered tomb she has been given."

Nell and her brave band of fellow renegades in the Forty Elephants gang aren't happy with the status quo for poor women, so they break both stereotypes and mingle with the upper class while robbing them blind: "Both women adopted the glaze of the servant: soulless, empty, hoping to render themselves invisible." As you can imagine, those in power and their pawns (police) find this situation intolerable so it's a book-long game of cat and mouse: "The Forty Elephants rammed the department stores like a plague of lipsticked locusts."

This definitely a proto-feminist read, with the characters often questioning their gendered lot: "Why was it perfectly natural for a boy to dream of adventure and yet for a girl to have such fantasies was to reveal herself as naïve and worse, immoral." There's even a reclamation of women's violence: "Fighting belongs to us all. They try and make us girls believe fighting isn't natural for us". It's quite a funny scene when Effie teaches Nell "a little practice to deaden the fear of hitting or being hit was all that was needed." It's interesting to consider a hundred years on whether things have sufficiently widened from the position of this book where the only freedoms being available to "working class woman in my country is the freedom to serve, steal or starve."

I enjoyed going to bed at night to delve back into this nicely-told story.

I think this might be Claire Whitfield's best book to date, "Poor Girls". Set in the 1920s, Eleanor is recruited by the 40 Elephants and turns her back on a life of waitressing and other serving roles to join the notorious female gang. I thought it was brilliant. I loved the descriptions of the characters, the in-depth schemes, the pantaloons they wore when "hoisting" in the big department stores (who knew you could roll up fur coats and stick them in your pants!) and the whole alternative 1920s vibe. I've definitely seen another side to the roaring 20s. Thought the ending was a really positive way of ending the book too.

Girl Power 1920’s style - I adored this fabulous historical romp! Nell joins the Forty Elephants, a real historical gang with some memorable characters I want to read more about. I loved the descriptions of 1920’s London - from the glamorous to ordinary. It’s really interesting to read about the streets, shops, hotels and nightclubs still there today. A fab story with underlying social commentary about women of the time. Eleanor or Nell and her ‘cell’ of 3 gals are a riot! I want to read about their onward travels round the globe now!

From the moment I turned the first page of "Poor Girls," I was thrust into a world that pulsates with vigour and rebellion. Clare Whitfield has masterfully crafted a narrative that is engrossing and incredibly relevant, echoing themes of female empowerment and defiance against societal constraints in post-war 1920s London.
Eleanor Mackridge's journey resonated with me. As a twenty-year-old navigating society's suffocating expectations, I felt her horror at the future laid out before her: a life spent either in service to the upper class or tethered to a husband. Having worked in a munitions factory during the war, where she was valued for her abilities rather than her gender, Eleanor had tasted independence. Watching society regress was maddening. Whitfield captures this sentiment beautifully, painting a vivid portrait of a young woman on the brink of transformation.
When Eleanor met a member of the Forty Elephants, my heart raced alongside hers. The allure of these fierce women—bold, glamorous, and unapologetically wicked—was intoxicating. Who wouldn’t be captivated by diamonds, fur, and a life lived fully on one’s terms? As Eleanor sheds her old identity, she becomes “Nell the Mack.” This metamorphosis isn’t just a physical change; it’s a declaration of agency, a rejection of societal norms, which I found immensely inspiring. The juxtaposition between Eleanor's delicate upbringing and Nell’s audacious spirit hit home for me; it’s a reminder of the potential for reinvention that resides within us all.
Whitfield's writing style is both engaging and immersive. The pacing is brisk, filled with action and tension that kept me flipping pages late into the night. I was pulled into the underbelly of London, surrounded by women who challenged the status quo and carved out a space for themselves in a man's world. The novel's tension is palpable, as we swiftly navigate through plots filled with peril and excitement.
One of the aspects of "Poor Girls" that I found particularly compelling is its foundation in historical reality. The Forty Elephants, inspired by real women, add a layer of authenticity that is both fascinating and challenging. As I read, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significance of these women’s stories, often marginalised in mainstream history. Whitfield has not only brought them to life but has also encouraged readers to engage with their complexities empathetically.
"Poor Girls" isn’t simply a tale of crime; it’s a vibrant exploration of femininity, independence, and the often-unseen struggles of women from that era. The concluding chapters left me contemplating the socio-economic landscapes of their time and how relevant these themes still are today. Whitfield’s work is a reminder that history is rich with untold stories, and it is our responsibility to listen and learn from them.
In conclusion, reading "Poor Girls" was an exhilarating experience that challenged my perspectives and reignited my appreciation for stories of women who defy convention. It is a brilliant escape into a bygone era that still speaks to us today, and I highly recommend it to anyone drawn to tales of resilience, ambition, and rebellion.

This was such a fun read! Based on a true story, I loved learning about the history of the Forty Elephants gang and how they worked in order to get themselves out of poverty. The character development of Nell was wonderful, through the book she went from an anxious and scared girl to a confident woman who knew her worth. This was my first book of Clare’s, and it won’t be my last!

I love a book that opens your mind to a past truth, but is totally different. Rarely have I been barracking for a criminal, but I certainly was for Nell and her cell. Constrained by the times, post WW1 Britain, Nell can’t see a way of getting forward , yet is very aware of the injustices of life. This is a book about class and society, but it also about friendships and the power of women. I was almost relieved when she got caught, and the ending was an absolute ripper! I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Forty Elephants, even more so knowing that they once truly existed. Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for an opportunity to read and review this book.

Wow, this was a delightfully brilliant and wild ride of a story that is also captivating and hilarious story. Set in the 1920s, we get the glitz and the glamour and the seedy underbelly of that era with the poignant escaping of a dull fate. Elenore doesn't want to either be a servant or some dull man's wife so she escapes, changes her name and becomes part of a sisterhood that celebrates the life of crime. Clare Whitfield took the reality of what many women faced in this era and gave those women a choice, a different destiny and a way to have incredible fun whilst doing it. I feel like this is a wonderful book to read for any woman or female identifying person to reflect on their own sisterhood, the bonds that bind us and how we can rewrite our own histories, should we want to. This is such a brilliant book, everyone should read it!

This was such an immersive, historical read set in 1922, following our female protagonist (20 year old Eleanor) who doesn’t want to marry or spend the rest of her life in a demeaning job serving the upper class so she escapes, changes her name and gets involved a women’s gang. She joins the 40 Elephants, a real-life female gang that were involved in thievery. A female crime syndicate from East London who specialised in shoplifting. Glamorous and uncompromising.
Eleanor discovers her agency and finds there is more to live to than following the rules…
This was such a fun read. Whitfield has researched this period and really recreated a vivid sense of place, but the research never feels heavy handed. Her prose, plot and characters are so relatable and engaging that I found myself just going with the flow of the story.

Most of us who had nothing, would strive to achieve a better life in an honest way (wouldn’t we?) but in 1920’s London, notorious real life female criminal gang ‘The Forty Elephants’ decided that what they couldn’t have they’d just take anyway!

Its 1922 and twenty year old Eleanor Mackridge is living with her parents in Brighton and serving the upper classes in a posh hotel. During the war she worked in a munitions factory, handling explosives, for which she was well paid, as well as doing her bit for the country, but she quickly found that after the war, society deemed that women were no longer needed to do ‘men’s’ work, and were put firmly back in their place.

Eleanor sees no future other than marriage, (hopefully to a kind and decent man), but it’s not enough for her, so when she comes across a member of the Forty Elephants, she imagines a life of plenty - cash, diamonds, luxurious furs and champagne, and from there onwards she’s destined for a roller coaster of a life!

Eleanor becomes ‘Nell’, and joins a cell of the Forty Elephants, who take thieving to a whole new level, alongside Effie, Lily and Charlie.

"The British papers portrayed them as stupid, feckless, feeble minded and the molls of bad men. The American ones portrayed them as dangerous, beautiful and romantic. Both were disappointing. One version to be fucked, the other burned at the stake. It might be nice to occupy somewhere in the middle on occasion, as if they were the same species as men."

This is a brilliant, fast paced telling of the Forty Elephants, with richly drawn characters (who though fictional) give an authentic portrayal of how this gang actually operated, and vividly reveals the social and economic situations of women during the 20s. The main four characters are amusing, slightly wicked ( Effie more so) but also with good hearts when the occasion calls for it. A terrific read that comes highly recommended.

This book gave me a female version of the Gangs of New York vibe.

It is pacy, rich in detail and amazing to read.

Set in 1922, 20 year old Eleanor feels as if her only option on life is to spend her life as a maid serving the upper class so when she gets involved with a women’s gang known as the 40 Elephants, she suddenly finds herself making a living through thievery and violence.

What a ride this book is so much fun. I loved the characters, and although times are hard the girls get what they want and don't care about how they get it .

It's an exciting and brilliant..

A beautifully woven tale set in post war Britain tells the story of life and survival of the of working class woman whose options are to “serve, steal or starve”. Sparky women who are silenced and denigrated as they fulfil their function, within society.

The story opens with the protagonist Eleanor Mackridge who works at the Grand hotel as a waitress while living with her parents in Brighton. Faced with the snobbery and constant humiliation she welcomes a distraction one evening by a Mr Rogers, who wines and dines her. Her encounter with him leads her into a life of crime when she is summoned to London to meet his sister Chrissie and be inducted into the world of “hoisting”.

Leaving Brighton behind she moves to the glitz of the city and in with her new flatmates Charlie, Lily and Effie. Together they become a tight sisterhood for the Forty Elephant Cell. Their cheeky and daring exploits often place them in danger or behind bars, but nothing can dampen their exciting adventures.

Whitfield portrays a sense of realism and wonder as she presents an insight into London during the early twenties. I really enjoyed her well drawn out characters. Giving voices to those silent women who would prefer to steal rather than serve rich aristocrats who were far from pious and law abiding. Her descriptions of the theatres, places and shops only enhanced my enjoyment and transported me to a time of elegance indulgence.

A brilliant read which has you screaming girl power by the end!
Highly recommend. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this atmospheric gem.

I am a big fan of this author’s work. Historical fiction is probably one of my favorite genres, and I am lucky enough to follow Claire on her social media so I can see some of her work process. It’s exciting to see how books develop. This book was perfect from start to ending. It was fast-paced, with beautifully developed characters, and a brilliant fiction story based on a real story about the real female criminal gang called “the Forty Elephants.” In the summary of this book you can read: Twenty-year-old Eleanor Mackridge is upset about the future that is planned for her. When she meets a member of the notorious female-led gang the Forty Elephants, she is impressed by these confident women who wear diamonds and fur, drink champagne and gin, and take what they want without asking. Now, she sees a new future for herself: she can work, marry - or steal. After all, men will only let you down. Diamonds are forever The characters in this book are truly endearing, and the portrayal of how the gang operates is very intriguing. The author skillfully creates an ambiance that transports you to the London of the 1920s, providing insight into the social and economic situations of women in the post-war era. The author weaves a narrative that delves into the deep desires, fears, and personal struggles of the characters, as well as the strong connection they share with each other, making this book an enjoyable, fast-paced read. I am currently searching for a book signed by the author to add to my collection. I already have two books signed by the same author, and I proudly display them on my bookshelf. I'm really eager to find the third signed book to complete the set. I absolutely admire this author's work and I can't wait for Claire's next book! In this blog, we believe this book deserves a solid five-star rating. 🌟🌟🌟🌟I want to express my gratitude to the publisher and the editorial team for granting me early access to this book. Thank you for this opportunity.

Having read a previous novel by the author, I was excited to dive into this new release - thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the advance copy.

This is high-octane, with fantastic characterisation and writing that jumps off the page - I didn’t want to put the book down.

You feel as though you are friends with the women, who are members of The Forty Elephants gang in London, and seeing behind the curtain of their life hustling and ‘hoisting’ means you feel empathy for them, which isn’t usually the case with gangster novels, which this is - as well as being part-historical fiction, social history and fact; which is fascinating (I’m going to dive into the bibliography that is shared at the end of the book to learn more).

It’s an emotional book, and reveals a lot about the expectations placed on women at the time - 1920s - in term of what they were allowed, or not allowed to be or do.

“Men steal everything. Now we want our share.”

Eleanor Mackridge is 24 years old and navigating 1920’s post war London. In an era when women are expected to serve or marry, Eleanor wants a different path, one towards freedom, and ultimately one that will mean she will have to decide how much she is willing to risk.

Clare Whitfield has written a fantastically gripping and compelling story of the underworld of 1920’s London, and the notorious all-female Forty Elephants crime gang that have everything, and want for nothing, in a world where most women can only dream of such a life. When Eleanor’s path crosses that of the Forty Elephants her life is changed forever - but is everything she dreamed of?

Fabulous characters, engaging descriptions of London, and a plot that will make have you at the edge of your seat at times, all come together in a story that you will be unable to put down until you’ve read the final page.
Whitfield has brought together friendship, family, crime, ambition and wickedness and wrapped them all up in one perfect fur coat and embellished them with an immaculate diamond.

‘After all, men will only let you down. Diamonds are forever.’

Poor Girls by Clare Whitfield is a fast-paced, gripping tale set in 1922, shining a spotlight on the infamous female-led gang, the Forty Elephants. The story follows twenty-year-old Eleanor Mackridge, a young woman disillusioned by the bleak future society has laid out for her—either serving the upper classes or settling for marriage. After working in a munitions factory during the war, handling explosives and earning good money, Eleanor is frustrated to see women pushed back into subservient roles as men return from the front.

Feeling trapped in her mundane life in Brighton, Eleanor yearns for something more. Her chance encounter with a member of the Forty Elephants, a gang of bold, glamorous women who steal what they want and live lives of luxury, opens up a new path for her. Enticed by the allure of diamonds, furs, champagne, and a sense of freedom, Eleanor reinvents herself as 'Nell' and becomes part of this notorious group. Alongside Effie, Lily, and Charlie, she embarks on a life of crime that challenges society’s expectations of women and defies the conventional roles imposed upon them.

Whitfield’s depiction of the gang’s operations is both thrilling and fascinating. The main characters, though fictional, are richly drawn, with sharp wit and rebellious spirit. They are mischievous, daring, and at times ruthless, but also show moments of vulnerability and loyalty to one another. The camaraderie between the women adds depth to their otherwise 'wicked' adventures.

The book vividly captures the social and economic realities of women in the 1920s, exploring how societal restrictions forced some into taking extreme measures to gain control over their lives. Eleanor’s journey from dutiful daughter to criminal mastermind is an exhilarating ride, and Whitfield’s sharp, lively prose keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

With its authentic portrayal of the criminal underworld and strong, complex female characters, Poor Girls is a brilliant and highly entertaining read. A fresh and exciting take on 1920s London, it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys stories of rebellion, survival, and fierce independence. Highly recommended!

Read more at The Secret Bookreview.

POOR GIRLS is an action-packed book about an all-female gang operating on London in the 1920s.

I grew up in Elephant and Castle (where the gang the forty elephants got their name) so these gangs were something I was aware of as these were people from our area who stole from the rich north of the river. It was really nice to read book that brought them to life, including cameos from real people like Alice Diamond.

So much research has gone into this book to make the thefts as realistic as possible, from the big bloomers to hide objects in to the places targeted. The locations are well researched (the number of lessons we had to sit through on "conditions of the working class in our borough" could have been avoided with a book like this!) It made it feel like such a nice window into their world.

The book plunges you into the high stakes world of thefts, entanglements with the law, and women trying to survive a world that wants them safely boxed away as maids or mothers. It's full of glamour but also the perils of the trade. I loved following along with these four girls who were like sisters, bickering and reckless but with one another's backs.

"I do think Jesus would approve of us though, cos we are poor taking from the rich and he was always up for that, wasn’t he?"

1920's London, Eleanor Mackridge just wants something better in life. Currently waiting tables at the Grand being ordered about by her female boss. Then everything changes when she bumps into a member of The Forty Elephants an all-female gang. A new life a new Nell taking more than what the world would give her.

Fast-paced, dark and funny with a fantastic cast of characters who you will remember for a long time. I couldn't put it down a roaring romp through the 1920s.

I've read People of Abandoned Character by Clare Whitfield and enjoyed it so I had high hopes for this one and it exceeded my expectations.

Very enjoyable bit of social history with a human touch.

Taking place in the early 1920s, this novel features Eleanor, a working class girl with aspirations, who turns to thievery. It brings together a group of similar-minded young ladies, all well- developed interesting characters. Based on real people of the era, this book highlights the social divide while the thieves live through a variety of experiences. It’s a real eye-opener and I recommend it to all fans of good writing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

REALLY enjoyed this ARC copy of Poor Girls. A funny, insightful and entertaining tale of a woman who chose to take more than the world would offer her. Well-written and easy to keep returning to. If I have one minor criticism I didn't love the ending but it really is minor - I enjoyed reading up until the end. Perhaps I just wanted a little more?

I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel set in 1920s England, centred around the fascinating true story of the Forty Elephants, a female-led crime gang. Although historical fiction isn’t usually my go-to genre, the intriguing premise immediately grabbed my attention, and the book kept me hooked from start to finish. Nell's character was a standout—strong and resilient, yet grounded by her own moral compass.

However, my one major critique is that Charlie and Lily's characters felt too alike at times, making it hard to distinguish between them. Additionally, the transitions between scenes could have been smoother, as some felt disjointed, affecting the overall flow.

Ultimately, an excellent historical fiction novel that I would highly recommend to fans of shows like Peaky Blinders.

Eleanor Mackridge is living with her parents in Brighton and during the war working in a munitions factory assembling explosives, not glamorous but a girl has to do what she has to do to get by. After the conclusion of the war the best Eleanor could hope for is a successful marriage, this was not of great appeal to her. Looking for more, Eleanor comes involved with the Forty Elephants, a band of women thieves who are living life on the edge. Eleanor soon takes on the name of Nell and with her new colleagues Effie, Lily and Charlie embark on a dangerous path, but one that does result in riches and wealth. They soon became well known and to many a mysterious group who are both respected and revered.

I absolutely loved this book and found myself thoroughly wrapped up in the story. The characters are what make it so good, and the author has done a wonderful job in presenting them to us, showing how strong friendships can allow us all to get through chaotic times in life no matter who we are or what our circumstances.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.

"Poor Girls" by Clare Whitfield is very fast paced women's fiction that makes you feel like you are living among the group of thieves. Great narrative and fabulous characters. This book will make you laugh but also shed a tear. The only disappointing thing was that it ended. I'm hoping that there will be another part as I would love to follow the story and secretly hoping for happy ever after with that cheeky policeman..
Great light read
I've received the early copy of the book from Netgalley which I am extremely grateful for

I requested this book because of the next lines "We were never destined to have anything – so you know what we did?
We took it anyway." so I had to read it and I loved it. I loved reading and learning more about a moment in history I had no idea it existed. Nell and the other characters where actually quite enjoyable to spend time with. It is a fast paced story that keep you wanting to know what next and hoping for the best for the girls.

Could not put this down!

Nell and her girls, what a ride - champagne, furs, diamonds & machetes!

I absolutely adored this book so fast paced with such well rounded characters that you can’t help but love. Such an easy 4 star and I cannot wait to read more from Claire Whitfield. For a more detailed review please check out my tiktok linked below.

Eleanor Mackridge, a waitress at the Grand Hotel, has few prospects in 1920's Brighton. Following a chance meeting with a male gangster, she is introduced to an all-female gang of thieves - the Forty Elephants. She moves to London and joins the gang as Nell the Mack.
Poor Girls is a well-researched novel based on real people. It is a well-written, immersive read with relatable characters. Rich with period detail, it transports the reader to London between the wars.
Highly recommended for readers of historical fiction.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Poor Girls is set in 1920’s England and gives an insight into how the all female crime gang, The Forty Elephants, operated in London. Eleanor comes from a poorer background and works as a waitress in order to make money to support her family. When Eleanor is met with the opportunity to become involved in the all female crime gang, although reluctant at first, it soon becomes an adventure she can’t resist.

I thought that the author did a really good job at helping the reader to become invested in the characters from early on in the book, especially Eleanor, aka Nell. The three girls that Nell became friends with at the start of her new London life; Charlie, Lily and Effie, also provided great depth to the story and I found myself becoming just as invested in them as I was Nell. I felt the way the book was written provided a perfect amount of history, whilst also using a fun and exciting approach into understanding what life was life back then and the lives that these women led.

This book was certainly different to what I usually read, however it speaks for itself how much I enjoyed it considering I finished it in a couple of days. Overall, I really liked the writing style, storyline and characters in this book, and I was hooked throughout. I really was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this and I would highly recommend. It is without a doubt one of my favourite books that I have read recently. Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.