The Girls Who Dared to Love

Girls Who Dared #2

by Diney Costeloe

A wartime nurse brings hope in the dark in the brand new heartwarming and gripping historical novel from beloved bestseller Diney Costeloe.

They knew each other as mistress and maid. Lucy, daughter of the house. Mabel the reluctant maid, who had to put her own ambitions aside when her family fell on hard times.

By the time World War I breaks out, their paths have gone separate ways. Lucy has married. Mabel has inherited a printing business from an old friend who always grieved to see her enter domestic service.

But war is set to change their lives once again. Women will be asked to do the work of the men called up to fight. Class divides will break down and a whole generation of young people from every walk of life will find themselves in turmoil.

Love won, love lost, hopes raised, then dashed, families torn apart as fathers, sons and brothers fall in battle. But through it all shines the indomitable will of women who will not take no for an answer, women who vow to rebuild from the ruins one day – and snatch victory from defeat.

Praise for Diney
'Truly captivating.' Woman & Home
'Diney Costeloe delivers an inspiring, heart-rending read with a wonderfully strong female protagonist.' Woman's Own
'A treat from the very first page. I could not put it down!' Historical Novel Society
'Historical fiction heaven... Anyone who feels that women's hist fict is a simplified genre sub-set would definitely need a rethink after this.' The Bookbag

Genres: Historical Fiction

400 pages, Paperback

Published May 8, 2025

About the author

Encouraged by my publisher father, I have been writing all my life. When I was five, he took my first effort to his office and brought it back in a cardboard cover with the label, 'Tom's Party'written by Diney, published by Daddy.
I've never looked back and always have some writing on the go.
To date I have written 10 romantic novels under the name of Diney Delancey (I liked the shape of the name and it sounded like a romantic novelist) and four novels as Diney Costeloe.
All are also in large print and several recently published as e-books.
See my reviews on Amazon and on my website, http://www.dineycosteloe.co.uk or http://castlehavenbooks.co.uk

Reviews

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

England 1914: Lady Lucinda McFarlane is about to be presented at court and start her first season as a debutante and her mother is keen for her to make a good match. Sir David Melcome is a Baronet and he’s a Major in the Dragoon Guards, his regiment has recently returned from India and he sees Lucy at a ball.

Mable Oakley lives with her mother Alice, disabled father Andrew and her brothers Edward and Stephen. Mable was once Lucy's maid and a rather reluctant one and she hated being in service. Mable inherited a printing business from Mr. Clarke, he thought Mabel had more potential and he’s right and she’s smart and has a mind for business and is determined to succeed in a man’s world.

Lucy’s mother is busy planning her wedding to Sir David Melcome, when he finds out he's being sent to France, the couple are madly in love, and they have to decide if they bring the wedding forward or wait and many couples find themselves in a similar situation.

I received a copy of The Girls Who Dared to Love from Aria & Aries and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Diney Costeloe has a writing style that embraces the time period the narrative is set in and gives the reader a realistic idea of what it’s like to live in England and during The Great War.

As we know it brings about huge changes, the futures of a whole generation and creates so much uncertainty and they have no idea how long it will last. Out of the two main characters, Mable has always been mature for her age and young ladies of Lucy's class are extremely sheltered and lived in a bubble and it's about to burst. The story mentions topics such as love, engagements and marriage, how single women who rent are vulnerable and they face homelessness and violence against women and trying to break the cycle.

This is a different type of war, troupes have to dig in and take cover in trenches and English hospitals fill up quickly with wounded, and once released those without family have nowhere to stay, recuperate and will have difficulty finding work and suffer from shell shock.

I shed quite a few tears while reading this story and it made me feel really emotional and five stars from me. I look forward to the next book in the series and I highly recommend both The Girls Who Dared to Love and the author's previous novel, The Girls Who Dared to Dream.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mabel Oakley, once the McFarlanes' maid, now ran her own printing business after inheriting it from a dear friend. She and her family had moved; their home was a little larger and they had room to offer when a mother and daughter needed help, plus when a friend of Mabel's lost her husband to the war. Mabel's life was happy, and as she occasionally saw William who visited when he could, she knew they had an understanding. But when Mabel met another young man, she finally knew what love was all about..

Lucinda McFarlane was engaged to Major Sir David Melcome, and her parents were organising a large wedding when WWI intervened, and David was told he needed to rejoin his regiment and head for France. The wedding was brought forward and an intimate family occasion was had, with a six day honeymoon before David's departure. Lucy missed her new husband dreadfully, but wrote to him often, and he to her. Would the war be over by Christmas as everyone said?

The Girls Who Dared to Love appears to be the second in a series, with The Girl Who Dared to Dream as the first (which I loved) But nowhere can I find series details... Mabel is once again an independent, feisty and determined young lady, while the delicate, but equally determined Lucinda is a character also to be admired. Lucy's brother, Iain as well as Mabel's family, and Charles - all well portrayed by the author. I've read and thoroughly enjoyed quite a few of this author's work; long may she continue! Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & Shannon Hewitt of Head of Zeus, UK for my digital ARC to read and review.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic follow up to The Girl Who Dared To Dream! I couldn't put it down. We're still following Mabel who now owns and runs a print shop. The family have also moved into a larger house and life is more comfortable. Along the way Mabel picks up waifs and strays, women in trouble who have no where to go. Life is very difficult for women at this time, especially women on their own.
Lucinda is also a main character. Mabel used to be her maid when she was in service to the family. She is making her come out and it's all excitement in the house. She meets Major Sir David Melcome shortly afterwards and in no time at all they're married. It's a rush job in the end because World War I breaks out and David has to go.
There's some good information on the battle front but it's mainly a book about the home front and how they coped and this is a part of history I love. There are some great characters and some down right nasty ones. I liked both girls stories but Lucinda's probably edged it for me.
I'd highly recommend it if you enjoy books about this era. The only problem I have now is having to wait for the next one in the series!!

Many thanks to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for an early copy to read.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this authors books,so elegantly written. A wartime historical read.This book has two main women characters,Lucy, who bought up in a high society family and falls in love with David, who has to go to war in france.the second character is mabel who worked for lucy family until she inherited a printer business....really enjoyed this read.the ending of this book for me didnt tell you the full story of what happened maybe its a continued story for the next book....

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first historical novel by the author but it won't be the last. Reminiscent of Downton Abbey. With gorgeous prose and an intriguing story, we follow a group of gutsy women struggling to make a life on the home front while their men are at war. Highly recommended!

[Shirley McAllister · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong Women

I loved that this storyline is about strong independent women that knew what they wanted and went for it even if it meant going against their parents and society in general. They followed their heart and didn’t turn back. It is so refreshing to find a book with strong women characters.

The story did a lot of going back and forth between the different characters although they were all intertwined with each other in one way or another. I did find this a bit confusing at times but it all came together in the end.

The story is written mainly about Lucinda (Lucy) and her former maid Mabel. One is a woman of means and the other a maid who falls on hard times, puts her dreams on hold until she inherits a printing press and starts her own business.

The story is set right before and during WWI. This is a time when the men were called to war and the women were called to do the jobs men were no longer there to do.

It is about two determined women, the men that loved them, and the women finding their place in society and building lives in a time of turmoil.

The story was interesting, I had to follow closely to determine which person it was following at the moment but I did enjoy the story immensely.

I received a complimentary copy of the story to read and review. The review is voluntary and in my own words.

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical fiction saga by a brand new author to me. The Girls Who Dared To Love piqued my interest with the blurb. I really am a sucker for historical fiction!

Set in England at the outset of the First World War, we follow the fortunes of Mabel Oakley, a young woman who has found herself owning a printing firm. Lucinda McFarlane, a debutante who is engaged to Major Sir David Melcome and Lady Diana Fosse-Bury whose romance with Lucinda's brother, Ian, is threatened by the war.

All three women are so well developed, and I could picture them in my mind. Mabel, I invested in so much. A working class girl who started as a maid and found herself in good fortune. She showed true grit throughout. A female running a business? In these times? I liked her fortitude and cleverness in running her printing business. She is a great example of the women in those days. The ones with the spines of steel and the determination to better themselves when everything worked against women. Mabel's story is like a rollercoaster all the way. Her ups and downs made this a great read.

Lucinda is a member of the upper classes, and she has to fight too, in her own way for her own choices. Going against the societal norms wasn't done in those days for the gentry. Lucinda has her Mamma to contend with, and that brings burdens on Lucinda if she does the wrong thing.

Lady Diana, well, she throws all the norms away and does everything her own way. She is gentry but she has made a name for herself as has her father! This woman is colourful and so intriguing. I can imagine the gossip amongst the gatherings!

Diney Costeloe has clearly a love for this period. Her research into the time has added so much depth to the book. The characters feel real, and their dilemmas are ones that are so perfect for the period. I always love historical fiction, and I say it's like being entertained and educated at the same time.

I couldn't get enough of these women. I took this book wherever I went. If I got 2 minutes, I was reading. It was like travelling back in time, I was that immersed. So uplifting to see how these women traversed society in their own ways. The emotions they went through when the men, one by one, go to war are so tangible. I felt for Lucinda the most. Her situation was one that every servicemen's wife experienced. My heart was torn in two for her.

A flowing and easily readable historical fiction tale of the people who lived through the First World War. It may be fiction, but I felt it could be real!
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and the publisher for my gifted book in exchange for honest review.

[Di · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have read many of Diney Costeloe's books and I have always found them to be a comfort read. Stories about ordinary people trying to live their lives in difficult times. I had trouble with this book in the beginning. It started with young girls being presented at the royal court, their mothers eager to make a proper “match” for their daughters. Suspiciously like a cheesy old-timey romance.

Then, the storyline slipped into war (WW1) and some of the politics and battles surrounding it. Many of Ms Costeloe's books centre around the war, WW2. But usually, the war is secondary. It's more about the lives of the characters during and after the war. But in this book the war is central. There are parts about the lives of the characters, but not enough to keep me interested.

I'm sad that this book is not for me. I was really looking forward to it. But, I think I’m burned out from too many war books. This is not the fault of the author. And, hopefully, her next book will go back to the style that I have liked over the years. As every author does, I know she puts her heart and soul into each book. I see that there are many 4 and 5 star ratings for this one. I'm happy for that. And, at this point it is irrelevant, but I do love the cover!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for their Advance Readers Copy.

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Girls Who Dared to Love” is book two in ‘The Girls Who Dared’ series following on from “The Girl Who Dared to Dream” by author Diney Costeloe. Set just as WW1 is breaking out, we follow Mabel Oakley, once a maid in service, who has inherited a printing business from her old boss when he died. Mable is an incredible young woman, determined against all odds to run her own business successfully, daring to invade the world of men and taking them on as equals. She constantly comes up against people who don’t like dealing with women and young ones at that. As Mabel and the other female characters, meet and fall in love with young men, they are faced with losing them to war, when troops are called up to fight and men sign up to offer their services.

I really enjoyed reading this family saga story, I endeared to all the characters (except Mr Sheridan Snr!) - they were interesting and each had unique individual stories, each from different backgrounds and status. It was surprising how much courtships were so different then, not even being allowed to walk out with someone without a chaperone or a parent’s permission.

I did feel I’d missed out on some of the back stories but it still read easily enough as a stand-alone, as the author does briefly cover any information needed to follow the continuity. I certainly enjoyed this book enough to want to read any further books that may follow and if historical family saga’s interest you, then this book/series will definitely entertain you.

#TheGirlsWhoDaredToLove - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[StinaStaffymum · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world is their oyster, but war is coming...

London 1914: Once the McFarlane's maid, Mabel Oakley now owns and runs her own printing business which she had inherited from dear friend Thomas Clarke. But the world is still very much a man's one and for the sake of propriety she has retained the business name "Thomas Clarke, Printer". Along with the business, Mabel was also bequeathed a house far bigger than that which her family lived in on Cockspur Lane. So it went without saying that the family moved to her new home where her father would have more room to move about in his wheelchair, gifted to them by the late Mr Clarke.

It also meant each had their own room - and with room to spare! So when her father Andrew's nurse Dorothy Finch told them she had a notice to vacate her home of 30 years within seven days, Mabel didn't think twice about offering he the unused rooms on the top floor. But Mabel's generosity didn't end there. Along the way, she also picked up another couple of waifs and strays and offered them a place to stay for the foreseeable. One of them being her old schoolfriend Annie after she lost her husband at the Front. Life was good for Mabel. William still came calling, with an understanding that she was not yet ready to settle down but he came biding his time and safe in the knowledge that they had an understanding.

Until Mabel meets Charlie "Chas" Sheridan, son of her father's former employer John Sheridan. And that was when Mabel really knew what love was. But the hostilities between her father and John Sheridan would thus make any relationship between them difficult, if not impossible. Would they find a way to somehow be together?

Lucinda McFarlane was preparing for her introduction to society with her first London season whilst her mother hoped for a suitable husband for her daughter, preferably a Duke. But when Lucinda met Major Sir David Melcome it was love at first sight for the couple. However, Sir David's reputation preceded him in that he flirted but never settled and her mother was against the match. But in Lucinda, Sir David had found his match and looked no further. And so with her father Sir Keir's blessing, a wedding was planned to coincide with Lucinda's 18th birthday. But when Sir David received word that he was to rejoin his regiment and head to France, the wedding was brought forward to become an intimate one at their country seat - not the lavish London society wedding that Lady McFarlane had planned. Still, the couple enjoyed a six day honeymoon at his country retreat in Buckinghamshire before he left for France. Lucy missed her husband terribly, but the couple wrote often, and hoped that the war would end soon.

The lives of both women do no cross again as they had in the first novel but they do run alongside one another, along with a growing storyline involving Iain, Lucinda's brother, who had up until now always held a torch for Mabel. Until he met Lady Diana Fosse-Bury who was a match for his own wit and recklessness. Definitely not someone his mother would approve of. Iain continued to hold Mabel in high regard and was even on hand when she asked for his advice on a matter concerning her trust left to her by the late Mr Clarke.

When I received this book I had no idea it was the second in the series so I promptly sought out the first one and read that one and then this one. Having never read Diney Costeloe before I was not disappointed. She has most certainly been added to my list of go-to historical authors. I love the era this novel is set before women came into their own but were beginning to stand up regardless. And the naivety of those concerning the war that was about to change all their lives.

This tale was one that gave you all the heartwarming emotions and the not-so-pleasant ones when faced with certain characters. You cry tears of joy and heartache along with Mabel and Lucinda, both of whom we get to know more. While it doesn't feature the servants quite as much as the first one since Mabel left the McFarlane's employ, it still has that Downton Abbey-esque vibe which makes the story all the more heartwarming.

I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent with Mabel, Chas, Lucinda and David and those around them. There is certainly more to their story and hope that Ms Costeloe will deliver us with more from them in the near future as I eagerly await to rejoin them again soon.

A well deserved five stars!

Perfect for fans of Rosie Clarke, AnneMarie Brear, Dilly Court and Francesca Capaldi.

I would like to thank #DineyCosteloe, #Netgalley and #AriaFiction for an ARC of #TheGirlsWhoDaredToLove in exchange for an honest review.

This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.

[Tripfiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiction set in WW1 LONDON



The Girls Who Dared to Love by Diney Costeloe focuses on three young girls who seem to have the world at their feet in the London of 1914. But as World War I looms, their lives – and ambitions – are about to change forever.

This is a poignant historical novel that dives into the harrowing experiences of young women who were often unseen and unheard in early 20th-century Britain. Known for her gift in capturing the resilience of women against daunting odds, Costeloe offers readers a story of courage, love and friendship amid adversity. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society between the wars, the novel tackles themes of family, societal expectations and the incredible strength found in solidarity.

Debutante Lucinda McFarlane is engaged to be married to Major Sir David Melcome, but their society wedding has to be scaled right down and rearranged when war is declared and David is recalled to his regiment – much to the disgust of Lucinda’s snobbish mother.

Mabel Oakley, once a maid for the McFarlanes, has inherited Thomas Clarke’s printing works, but an unexpected turn of events leaves her at the mercy of her father’s old enemy, solicitor John Sheridan. Enter Sheridan’s son and the start of a forbidden love affair.

Lady Diana Fosse-Bury, who really only plays a minor part in the story, is incredibly beautiful and reckless. When war is declared she immediately wants to be in the thick of it but she starts a budding romance with Lucinda’s brother, Iain, while inadvertently becoming one of Lucinda’s allies.

Each woman is grappling with their own unique struggles and secrets. What unites them is the society in which they find themselves. However, the “help” they receive – often from within their own families – is often far from nurturing, exposing the oppressive and sometimes abusive environments faced by women punished for veering away from societal norms. Costeloe deftly addresses the social constraints placed on women in the early 1900s, weaving their individual tales of defiance against a system intent on breaking them.

Poignant love stories are interwoven into the women’s individual stories and one can’t help but also fall in love a little with their dashing men!

One of the novel’s strengths lies in Costeloe’s meticulous research, which brings a intuitive authenticity to the settings, characters and challenges faced by the women. She does not shy away from portraying the grim realities of institutional life—poverty, limited choices and societal judgement. However, she also balances these darker elements with the warm and hopeful threads of love and friendship. Each character is uniquely developed, giving readers someone to root for in each storyline while highlighting the systemic injustices faced by women of all backgrounds and social standings during that time.

The prose is both elegant and accessible, allowing the characters’ emotions to resonate deeply with readers. This quality, coupled with the plot’s subtle suspense and unexpected twists, keeps the narrative engaging without veering into melodrama.

Overall, this is a powerful read that celebrates the courage of women who fought for their right to love, to live and to choose their own paths despite oppressive social structures. This book will particularly appeal to fans of historical fiction, feminist narratives and stories that explore the strength of human connection in the face of adversity – although I was slightly disappointed with the ending which, I felt, could have been less abrupt.

[Francisca den Otter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dit vervolg op The Girl Who Dared to Dream / Een goede dochter geeft niet alleen Mabel Oakley een stem, maar ook Lucinda McFarlane. In een goede dochter was Lucinda nou niet echt heel erg leuk, een beetje arrogant en verwend, maar in dit boek wordt haar ware aard onthuld, en ze is zeker niet zoals haar moeder!

Lucinda is nog geen achttien en wordt geïntroduceerd om haar debuut te maken voor het seizoen van dit jaar. Zij en David Melcome vallen voor elkaar en hebben plannen om te trouwen. Lucinda wordt door David rondgeleid door zijn ouderlijk huis op het platteland en is onder de indruk en overweldigd door de grootsheid ervan.

Mabel aan de andere kant doet haar uiterste best om de drukkerij te blijven runnen die ze van Thomas Clarke heeft geërfd. Ze heeft een goed oog voor zaken en floreert behoorlijk goed. Ze heeft de drukkerij verplaatst naar de werkplaats in de tuin van hun nieuwe huis, het huis dat ook bij de erfenis hoorde, en werkt dus eigenlijk vanuit huis.

Naast Lucinda en Mabel maken we ook kennis met Mavis, de dochter van Doreen, de verzorgster van haar vader Andrew Oakley, en Annie, een oude vriendin van Mabel uit haar schooltijd.

Diney beschrijft het leven van de adel en de arbeidersklasse en de verschillen daartussen, je krijgt echt een goed beeld van het leven in het tijdperk voor de Eerste Wereldoorlog. De aanleg van elektriciteit, maar ook de wens van vrouwen om zich uit te spreken en voor zichzelf te kiezen.

Er staat vermeld dat Lady Diana Fosse-Bury een rol speelt in het boek, maar dit is een kleinere rol dan Lucinda en Mabel hebben, het boek is vooral gericht op de laatsten. De epiloog is geheel gewijd aan Lucinda wat ik niet had verwacht, het was een perfect einde en er is duidelijk ruimte voor een deel drie waarin deze meisjes zijn uitgegroeid tot vrouwen die niet met zich laten sollen!

Met dank aan Head of Zeus Ltd en NetGalley voor dit vooruitlees exemplaar.

Characters 8 | Atmosphere 8 | Writing style 8 | Plot 9| Intrigue 8| Logic 8| Enjoyment 9 | Score 8.29 = 4 sterren

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is an emotional WWI saga that will tug at your heartstrings. Initially, I found the book's cover design to be very pretty and eye-catching. I felt drawn to it, and it made me want to know about the characters and their stories.

Since the moment they met, Lucinda and David have only had eyes for each other. They intend to marry on Lucinda's eighteenth birthday, but a war is imminent. What does that mean for the two of them, and their future?

When Mr Clarke passes away, Mabel inherits his printing business, but it seems not everyone is pleased about it. Mabel's family hope that she will settle down and marry her close friend William. Mabel knows he would make a good husband, but isn't sure that marriage is what she wants.

Meanwhile, Lucinda's brother, Iain, has caught the attention of Lady Diana Fosse-Bury, but do they have a future together?

I started reading, and it wasn't long before I felt connected to the characters. I felt there was a lot of love and warmth between the characters, and I became invested after a few chapters. I think Lucinda was the character I felt the strongest connection with, and I really wanted her to be happy.

I found Mabel to be a likeable character, and I hoped to see her grow in confidence as the story progressed. I hoped that she would become more sure of herself, speak her mind and be honest about what she really wanted.

When Lady Diana was introduced as a character, I found her a little bit enigmatic. I wanted to know more about her, and about Iain too. I found Lady Diana was a character who made me smile, and I enjoyed her initial chemistry with Iain.

I thought about the use of the word “love” in the title. By the time I reached the end, I realised that this book told three stories all about love, and what it can do. This book made me emotional, in a good way.

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.

[virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Girls Who Dared to Love is another splendid story by author Diney Casteloe set during WWI. If you enjoy tales of strong women swimming against the tide of society, this tale is for you. The second book in the series begins with a slow burn and abruptly changes from young girls being presented at court to a full-on tale of WWI and the horrors that rained down on the men who fought and the women who tried to stay strong through it.

This tale is interesting because it revolves around two very determined women, the men they love, and their struggles as the war sweeps them into its path.

Although I enjoyed the book, I should have read the first book in the series before tackling this one. I felt like I was reading two books in one because the author abruptly switched from the setup to a book about the war. I was playing catchup a great deal, taking notes to keep track of the characters.

It was a confusing story but poignantly written with enough imagery to keep me reading. I can’t wait to start the series at the beginning to discover more about these two strong-willed, fearless women.

This is not a beach read; it is not a fast read, and I cannot say it is a romance, although the themes were there. But … reading this story did make me purchase the first book in the series, eagerly anticipating reading more of the author’s work. I suggest readers start at the beginning of the series before reading this continuation of Lucinda and Mabel’s tales.

I want to thank Net Galley, the author, and the publisher, for the opportunity to read this ARC for free. This review is voluntary and mine alone.

[Jennifer Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Diney Costeloe’s newest book The Girls Who Dared to Love, we are once again given a look into the life of Mabel, who was the central character of Costeloe’s The Girl Who Dared to Dream. Mabel is now running her inherited printing business at the dawn of World War I. She has moved her parents into the house she inherited since there is more space for her father to get around in his paralyzed state. Lucinda, the daughter of the house Mabel previously worked in, is also a main character who has her introduction to society and quickly meets David, an Dragoon officer, who is quite taken by her and soon proposes marriage. When World War I breaks out, he is shipped over to France.

Costeloe continues the strong character of Mabel who is years before her time. She offers refuge to other less fortunate women in her family’s life and seeks to make the world safer for females with the money she has inherited. Lucinda glows in her life as a married woman and seeks to find a way to provide support from home for the war. There are a host of supporting characters who add their own flavor to each woman’s story. I hope to see a third book with Mabel and Lucinda in the future. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus/Aria & Aries for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book will be published on September 4, 2024.

#netgalley #arc #bookstagram #TheGirlsWhoDaredtoLove #DineyCosteloe #HeadofZeus #AriaandAries

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Girls Who Dared To Love by Diney Costeloe is a powerful historical novel that I loved. It is the second book in the Girls Who Dared series but can be read as a stand-alone. I, however, recommend reading book one first as this book continues where the first book finished.
Now the first World War is beginning. There is a focus on the women folk as some of the men have gone to war.
We see that the leading ladies are very much modern misses as they take control of their lives. They know what they want and who they want, and are not afraid to pursue their desires. They grab life with both hands.
Love arrows fall where they will. Parents do not always agree with their off-spring’s choice of marriage partner. They can either accept it or reject their children. The heart wants what the heart wants.
As the years are passing, old traditions are breaking down. The hierarchy of the classes is breaking down. Women too, are stepping out of traditional roles in order to make their own paths in life.
All the characters were well drawn, realistic and likable.
We see that there are those with social consciences’ who want to improve the plight of women and provide a refuge for those who need it.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Girls Who Dared To Love. It was an engaging and compelling read.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this charming World War I historical fiction novel, readers join Lucy and Maud, a young aristocratic woman and her maid turned printer with her own business. Having gone their separate ways in the months before the war, the two women’s lives changed further with the outbreak of war in 1914. As they adjust to their new lives and to the war, both Lucy and Maud must step outside their earlier roles and take control of their lives before things spiral out of hand. With strength, courage, and intelligence, both women rise to the occasion and live their new lives in the face of defeat and the naysayers. Maud and Lucy are very different women, and their differences are very apparent in their respective chapters, setting the two distinct narratives apart for the entire novel. With fascinating side characters and romances for these women to interact with, readers will love Costeloe’s characters and the world they inhabit. The two women are the heart and soul of the story, and the differences between them give readers a great exploration and understanding of World War I London for aristocrats and the working class in this fascinating, exciting, and immersive historical fiction novel.

Thanks to NetGalley, Aria & Ares, and Aria for the advance copy.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This tells of the lives of the two main characters, Lucinda (Lucy) and Mabel and their family. It starts in 1914 just before the start of the war. They come from two very different classes. There was a previous book in this story where Mabel worked as a maid in Lucy’s home. I hadn’t read this book but it didn’t spoil my enjoyment as all relevant facts were related. This story really takes the reader back in time, where many people underestimated a woman’s capabilities. Mabel has her own business and is determined to succeed. She also has a kind and generous nature. Lucy is very much under her mother’s influence but I was glad that she was determined to have her own way. It was good to see her become her own person. There are a number of interesting secondary characters but the main story concerns the lives and loves of Mabel and Lucy and how the war affected each of them. I’m assuming there is another book to follow as some things were resolved but not all. I really enjoyed this book and I became invested in how things would pan out for them. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucinda (Lucy) McFarlane is a debutante preparing to be presented at court where she will curtsy to the Queen and King. Later, she will have her own coming-out ball.

At a soiree, Major Sir David Malcome, Baronet, sees Lucy and is struck by her beauty. After being introduced, they both soon fall in love and plan to marry. But when he is told he will have to leave to join the new war with Germany before their planned nuptials, they decide to marry sooner before he leaves.

Mabel used to be a maid to Lucinda at the McFarlane home but was falsely accused of stealing and let go. She then went to work for a printer. He has recently died and left the business to her. She decides to rent the premises out and she is then able to buy a new home for her family.

The story primarily follows Lucy and Mabel as they mature and make big decisions in their life as well as finding the love of their lives. There are several plots going on here and all of them are delightful. The characters are so real and I wanted to simply keep turning pages. But the story came to the end leaving the reader looking forward to another book. I read this author’s book “The Girl Who Dared to Dream” and loved it. This one is equally as good and I do hope the author is busy working on the next book. I cannot wait to read it. Enjoy!

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The girls who dared to love is the follow up to the authors previous novel The girls who dared to dream which is another heartwarming tale.
Mable Oakley is now grown up and is working as a printer after inheriting the business, after the owner didn’t want her to go and work as a maid again.
Lucinda McFarlane is now eighteen and has made her debut in high society where she meets David Melcome and falls in love with him. They have a short relationship and decide to get married before he is sent off to war. Which at first both parents weren’t happy about as there is a rift between the two fathers. But Lucinda doesn’t care she is adamant to marry her man.
This is not only a love story but also a story of women’s independence and proving that there is more to women than getting married and having babies. I really enjoyed this historical tale and the characters in it. Even though I did feel it was a quite a long story, But can’t wait to see in what’s in store for the next chapter is there is one. 5 stars from me.

[Soozee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues at the start of the First World War. Lucy is now ready for her debut and to find a husband, whereas Mabel is working hard on her printing business, left to her by her previous employer. We follow their fortunes in love as the War looms over them and men start to leave.

The story is told well and is really readable, looking at how women were treated - we have characters suffering spousal abuse and being thrown out of their homes - and how they gradually were beginning to assert themselves as businesswomen and able to govern their own lives. Lucy, as an upper class woman, is very much controlled by her family and then her husband, whereas Mabel is much more independent. The result is a great read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a delightful novel with characters no less attractive! I really enjoyed spending time with the various characters which has given me a good insight into London life during the first few months of WWI. The war provides the background to the storyline, but the reader does not feel any significant effect on our characters. The plot is focussed on the lives of two strong young women striving for their independence from family obligations (as a Lady) , or from financial support (a female printer). Romance is very much in the air, and it wove itself perfectly into the storyline. The conclusion led me to wish to meet the protagonists soon again...
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

[Katie Awdas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable read although like others I didn't read the earlier book in the series (Fantastic Fiction does not list as a series) so was a bit confused at times at some of the references made. Still I found myself looking forward to going to bed to learn more about the characters and where the story would take them. The characters were all likeable and the book is well written.

I did feel that the last hour of the book was somewhat rushed and more could have been made of the blossoming relationship with Chas and David's experiences in the war. The mention of the Christmas Day truce was particularly poignant.

I was somewhat confused when finishing the book as felt like the story had not finished but assume (and hope) that another title is to follow.

[Kristin- Kristin's Bookstack · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a bit of a letdown. At the beginning of the book, there were a few sensual scenes that did nothing to move the story along and made the story feel awkward; like it didn't belong with the rest of the story. I felt that the characters were the best part of the book. I especially liked Mabel with her generous spirit and quiet confidence. I kept waiting for the two stories to interconnect, but they never did. Only the sub-characters intertwined between the two stories. It made me wonder what the point of telling both stories was. Neither story went anywhere, but I found Mabel's story more interesting. I only kept reading because I wanted to know how the book ended.

Thank you NetGalley and Aria and Aries for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I almost didn't read this new book by Diney Costeloe. I'm so glad I did. A couple of nights staying up late to finish that last chapter was well worth it.
I loved the ladies that made up "The Girls". They each had their struggles. Each young woman figured out what they were capable of.

Lucinda was eager to help others as she waited for her husband to come home from war. Mabel was focused on her career until she met Charles.

Strong women, stronger than they thought they were.

I hope to assume there will be a sequel. I want to know what the future holds for THE GIRLS WHO DARED TO LOVE.

[Christina J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can only give this book three stars because it badly needs an editor. The story is just fine, a good sequel, but I'd be reading along, and there'd be paragraphs that made no sense. It's like the author cut and pasted , but then didn't proof read what she changed. There were missing and added words throughout, too. The ending was quite abrupt. Whoever heard of a 26-minute epilogue? I enjoyed the characters. Each one had their own idiosyncracies and distinct personality. The big issue here is editing to make it flow better.

[Catherine Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Are you kidding me???

I bought this book for the continuing story of Mabel, the Main character in the first book!! Instead, the follow up book is about characters we don't care about from the first book!! Mabel was the main story. She is the main character! Why would you write part two about characters from part one who hated Mabel, the star if book one?? That's crazy & makes no since. Unless yoh write Mabel's life conclusion, I will certainly never buy another book by this author.
My two cents worth.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book from the beginning and it was only after about 20% that I realised that the characters were familiar and realised it was a follow up to The Girls Who Dared To Dream. As it was 2 years since I had read that book I didn't really remember it but that didn't impact on my enjoyment of this book, which could just as easily be read as a standalone book. It was a great story, with the end being left open, so hopefully there will be a follow up soon.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the young female leads in this book, in that they were feisty and independent in their own way, while chafing against the constraints of 1914 England. The way their stories unfolded was wonderful, and the subtle connections between them worked well. I was very sad that it finished in 1915, and hope that maybe there is a sequel coming as I was very invested in their futures and their experiences during the war. Thanks to NetGalley for a chance to read and review this book.

[ROBIN RUIZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book!
These strong women who have to survive while their beloved country is at war, where the men they love are fighting that war!
This has been one of my favorite authors for historical fiction and for writing strong women who will leave such an impact on you!
Mabel, Annie, Lucinda and Mavis are ladies you will never forget!