Love and Marriage at Harpers

Harpers Emporium #2

by Rosie Clarke

London 1913

The shop girls of Harpers Emporium on Oxford Street are
happy in their work and their lives are moving on at quite a pace.

United by the suffragette cause and now living under one
roof, some will find love and marriage whilst others experience heartache and
tears.

Harpers is the bond that holds them together, bringing
strength through hardship and pain and friendship and love.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Audiobook, Fiction, Historical, Historical Romance, British Literature

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2020

Reviews

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

The girls at Harper’s Department Store are moving ahead in life and face joys, difficulties and other life changes. This was an enjoyable read by Rosie Clarke, and I hope we see these women in another story.

Extended review to come.

[StinaStaffymum · Rating 2 out of 5]

The girls at Harper's Emporium are back with joys, challenges and other changes in this second novel LOVE AND MARRIAGE AT HARPER'S by Rosie Clarke. I haven't read the first book but despite this I don't think I missed out on a whole lot as this one begins with what appears to be a whole new story.

However, having said that, I may have enjoyed it far more had I read the first one and was introduced to the characters and watched them come into themselves. As it was, I felt a little complacent about this one and couldn't connect to the girls, who I felt were a gossipy bunch where nothing much happened except go to work, catch the bus home and sit around the table chatting. The only character I felt more of a connection with was Aunt Helen - I can't remember whose aunt she was - and her dire marriage to gold digger, Gerald. In my opinion, not much took place but the women's suffragette movement, which is not really a topic that interests me.

The girls - Rachel, Beth, Sally and Maggie - enjoy their work at Harper's Emporium on Oxford Street which is busier than ever and each of them are kept bustling all day long. The girls now share a flat together though each has their own life outside of each other. The suffragette movement is in full swing with the imprisonment of Emmeline Pankhurst as the girls discuss and decide if they support the Women's Social and Political Union or just remain with the Women's Rights Movement.

Meanwhile, store owners Ben Harper and his sister Jenni are in New York leaving Mr Stockbridge in charge, and Sally managing the buying of new stock for the store. Sally had harboured a secret crush for Ben Harper but as he has not contacted her since being away, leaving that to his sister Jenni, Sally believes the interest he had shown her previously has now waned.

There is love and romance for each girl in one way or another and yet it just didn't hold my interest as I thought it might. The premise sounded promising but the story just failed to deliver for me. It's a shame as Rosie Clarke's Mulberry Lane series is a delight to read. I guess maybe it's just this series that I just can't connect with. Maybe I will go back at a later date and try again...and find then that I may be pleasantly surprised.

LOVE AND MARRIAGE AT HARPER'S is a light read that one may may or may not find addictive, depending on the individual. Having said that, I do recommend for fans of historical fiction and sagas.

I would like to thank #RosieClarke, #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for an ARC of #LoveAndMarriageAtHarpers in exchange for an honest review.

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

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love and Marriage at Harpers by Rosie Clarke is the second novel in Welcome to Harpers Emporium series. This is a series that needs to be read in order. I thought this historical novel contained good writing with engaging, developed characters. The story flowed beautifully thanks to Rosie Clarke’s warm writing style. I felt like I was joining the ladies in 1913 London. The hats, jewelry and clothing descriptions allowed me to visualize them. I could tell the author did her research for this series. Women’s suffrage was a hot topic at the time especially Emmeline Pankhurst’s exploits. The author included arrested suffragists going on hunger strikes, the “Cat and Mouse Act (horrible law), and the rumblings around Europe that will eventually lead to war. Rachel Craven, Maggie Gibbs, Beth Grey and Sally Ross met when they applied for employment at Harper’s Emporium before it opened. They became friends while working in the store and then roommates. As they live and work together, they become a family. The ladies are dating and falling in love in this story. Ben Harper finally returns and tells Sally why he was away (he still should have written). Jenni Harper visits and adds liveliness to the story. Your emotions will run the gamut while reading Love and Marriage at Harpers. I was sad when I reached the last page. I am eager to find out what happens next to these ladies. Love and Marriage at Harpers is a charming historical novel with suffragette supporters, a hectoring husband, sedulous salesgirls, a lively London, beloved beaus, and notable nuptials.

[Vonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beauty of this saga continues (book 2) The ladies join the suffogate movement, deal with love and marriage and of course continue to work at Harper's. This historical saga was very well researched and you feel like you are a part of these ladies clique. An extremely enjoyable read and can't wait to get the next book! Highly recommended!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Rosie's work for quite a while now. I have tried to read as much of her back catalogue as I can, whilst at the same time keeping pace with her new releases. 'Love & Marriage At Harpers' is Rosie's latest book and it was released on 3rd March 2020. I thoroughly enjoyed 'Love & Marriage At Harpers' but more about that in a bit.
It didn't take me long at all to get into this story. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first page, I felt as though I had been reunited with old friends. Reading 'Love & Marriage At Harpers' was certainly addictive. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I was still sat there reading over nine chapters and a couple of hours later. I totally immersed myself in the story and my sole focus was on the book and on the book alone. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I got through the story far quicker than I had either anticipated or expected. When I got to the end of the book I felt sad because it meant that I had to say goodbye to the staff of Harpers again.
Rosie Clarke has one of those warm and genuine writing styles that reads more like a chat between friends than an actual story. I know that might sound silly to some but I know what I mean. Rosie grabs your attention from the synopsis alone and the story contained within the pages of the book just seal the deal as it were. Rosie uses such vivid and realistic descriptions that I felt as though I had been plucked from 2020 and transported in a time machine back to 1913, which is when the story is set. I also felt as though I was part of the story myself and admiring the fashions and grandness of the Harpers Store.
I loved the way in which the girls had become involved in the Suffragette movement, which is a cause close to my heart, as I had a Granny who was a Suffragette. I also studied the Suffragette movement and the 'Cat & Mouse Act', as part of my 'A Level' Modern History course. Rosie has clearly done a lot of research into this time period and this shines through in the quality of her writing.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Love & Marriage At Harpers'. It's another cracking read from Rosie Clarke and I heartily recommend that you read her books. In fact I can't think of one of her books that I haven't thoroughly enjoyed. I will definitely be reading more of Rosie's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Harper Girls series, a historical fiction saga. Set in London about 4 girls who meet when they are all employed by a London Department Store and their lives in and out of the store. Set at a time when war is looming. We are back with the girls and its a lovely story to follow. I almost feel like I am living in the era with them. Thank you for the copy of the book ntgalley and boldwood books.

[Booklover BEV · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful read. Rachel, Sally , Maggie and Beth all sharing an apartment. Its 1913 and all work at Harper's department store in Oxford street London. The suffrage movement is in the headlines for women's rights Rachel and Sally often attend the meetings. Owners of Harper's Ben and Jenni brother and sister are in New York leaving Mr Stockbridge in charge. I really enjoyed reading the girl's stories. The magic of romance shines through as the girls find happiness with loved one. Very worthy stars for this book.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rosie Clarke is one of the most talented writers of historical sagas writing today. Her stories are not only wonderfully vivid and immensely moving, but she always makes her readers feel every single emotion her characters are going through and we laugh, cry, despair and rejoice with them. Whether we are with the residents of Mulberry Lane or getting to know the Shop girls at Harpers, Rosie Clarke never fails to make us care about what her characters go through and that is certainly the case with her second novel in the Harpers series: Love and Marriage.

Life for these girls couldn’t possibly get any better. Not only are they extremely happy with their jobs at the Harpers Emporium on Oxford Street, but they are living under one roof as they find themselves united by their interest in women’s suffrage. In 1913, the time has come for women to start enjoying the same privileges and freedoms which men have taken for granted for so long and this fight for women’s rights has united these four girls and enabled and encouraged them to be stronger individuals, even though they are very much living in a man’s world where the opposite sex holds all the power.

Amidst all this uncertainty and upheaval, Sally, Beth, Megan and Rachel’s lives will continue to flourish and change as the world changes with them. With the gathering clouds of war fast approaching, the girls find themselves thrown headlong into new adventures and new challenges. But there is light at the end of the tunnel and as love and marriage come along to change their lives, the girls find themselves getting ready for a brand new chapter whilst also navigating through the many obstacles and dilemmas that will trouble their every day lives.

But throughout it all, their work at Harpers and their friendship and support will see them through even the darkest and most devastating of times because you never know what is around the corner and in times of great uncertainty, it will be your dearest friends who will be there for you with multiple cups of tea and shoulders to cry on.

I’m a huge fan of Rosie Clarke’s and with Love and Marriage at Harpers, she once again kept me absolutely glued to the book’s pages. A wonderfully written tale of friendship, romance and the ties that bind, Love and Marriage at Harpers is saga writing at its finest and readers looking for a vivid, enthralling and captivating read to lose oneself into, need look no further than this first-rate tale!

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exactly what I expected from this talented author: a wonderful second book in series!

Life at Harpers department store is busier than ever, and our four women are kept on their toes all day long. Now that they are sharing a home, their friendships are sealed and life is moving on for all of them . . .

I love Rosie Clarke's series'; I adored The Women of Mulberry Lane and, as I settled in to read this second book I realised that I cherish the characters in Harpers every bit as much. Each one is skilfully crafted, all with completely separate identities and yet they meld together beautifully. As time moves on, it's only natural that love and marriage will enter the equation but there is so much more to this book. Each woman's life is different to the other, and the author doesn't shy away from including the realities of life in the period setting. If ever women should be grateful to the Suffragist Movement, then this book will bring home exactly how much they could NOT do for themselves and how important using our vote is. With the story moving along at a scudding pace, there is also plenty of scope for a third novel and I find myself looking forward to it already. A superb read, as always, fully earning all five sparkling stars!

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

NetGalley

Member Review

Love and Marriage at Harpers
by Rosie Clarke
Pub Date: 3 Mar 2020
Review by

jeanie m, Reviewer
Last updated on 29 Dec 2019
My Recommendation

Many thanks to Boldwood books and netgalley for my advanced copy of the 2nd book in the Harper's series.
Gosh where to start having devoured the 1st book I couldn't wait to read the 2nd one it was utterly BRILLIANT from beginning to end it took us up to date with the 4 Harper girls and how life has been changing for them. The return of Mr Ben Harper himself, filled to the brim with happy sad intriguing incidents I really can't praise this OUTSTANDINGLY SUPERLICIOUS Book.

[Carol Mageean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was so pleased to be granted this book and then realised I had not read the first book - The Shop Girls of Harper’s. So had to read that first this second book followed on very easily - enjoyed it throughly and although it involves quite a few characters they are so connected and the author reminds you or the past so you could easily enjoy as a stand-alone story of you wished. Loved that all the girls worked in Harper’s and followed their stories of love and relationships and it was very interesting and I was totally absorbed. if you love a proper conclusion and want to “escape”then I highly recommend you read this book. Rosie Clarke is an amazing talented author.

[Farrah I · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the ongoing Harper Emporium series, another enjoyable read. Ben Harper due to a emergency has to return back to America leaving the shop in the efficient hands of Sally and Mr Stockbridge. Admist handling the shop, Beth and her aunt end up getting married. We find out a little more about Mick, Sally realises Sylvia is using her for money sadly and doesn’t consider her a friend.

I give it 4 stars because I didn’t think Sally sharing a kiss with Mick and then not giving any closure was right, she ends up with Ben but she should have clarified matters with Mick even if it was he who initiated it!

[Becki Basley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love and Marriage at Harpers (Harpers Emporium series book two )by Rosie Clark (Audiobook read on Hoopla app)

Book 2 of this Series begins in 1913. The circle of friends are still happily working at Harpers though marriage is in the Air for a few of the girls and they also are becoming involved in the Women’s movement as Well. The story covers a little of the internal problems within the movement chiefly in those who believed in using violence and those who felt that cheapened their cause.

All the girls face their own individual personal growth and challenges but each are faced with the love and support of their forever friends.

[Miriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the series. It carries on with the lives of the four ladies who work in Harpers and we meet some new characters one who is revealed to be unsavoury and causes heartbreak for the rest. As with the first book, it centres around a particular part of history, this time it is the Suffergette movement and how difficult it was for women to be heard and the barbaric methods that were used to try stop the brave women from being treated as equals. The next book is due out soon and I'm looking forward to reading it.

[Katherine Hayward Pérez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oxford Street is one of my favourite streets in London so I really wanted to review this. I did a blog tour in which I poste da review for the audio extract of the book.

From the audio extract alone, it is impossible to get a clear sense of the book as a whole but Rosie Clarke is one of my favourite historical fiction authors and frpom this extract I like the characters and the atmosphere in the Emporium. I hope to get to listen to both books in the series. I love the cover too.

Thanks to Boldwood Books for an audio extract of Love and Marriage at Harpers.

[Christina J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-3/4 stars

This was a good continuation of the first book in the series. The same things are repeated over and over by this author. I mean, how many reading this want to really know how many bangles and bracelets and hats were sold every other page? The characters didn't evolve a whole lot. Marriages happened and some tragedy and then some good stuff and then uncertainty. It isn't a deep read, but it is just a good story that you don't have to think about. I'll go onto the next one in the series.

[Samantha · Rating 2 out of 5]

We meet again.

The second installment of the Harpers Emporium series follows Beth, Sally, Maggie, and Rachel roughly a year after the conclusion of the first book in the series, London in the year 1913. Not much has changed for the girls; they’re all happy with their current living situation, together in their cozy flat home after a full day of working together at Harpers. Again, their never-questioning friendship remains the core of the series, a true testament to female relationships.

This time around, there’s a light dive into the English women’s suffrage movement of the time. Though we hear about the girls attending meetings and supporting the cause, they talk about it more often than we see it, something that I wish was dealt with further. It seems a natural progression in a series that focuses on the strength of female friendship.

On the other side of things, most of the men -- save wise old Fred -- come across as inconsistent and unpredictable, at times semi-abusive to their respective partners.
I would normally think this a comment by the author on the general qualities of the men of the time -- admittedly one very different from our present; however, the women in question declare they are happy and in love with these men so the choice comes across as romanticizing possessive and jealous men in romances that are portrayed as “ideal”. For example, we have a man who constantly lies about his history and motives be forgiven and hint at a future romance. We have a man treat a woman harshly and with aloofness because he assumes she is seeing someone else -- despite the fact that he has laid no claim to her so far. And we have a wife pretend to be sexually satisfied to make her husband happy, despite the fact that his own actions are inherently selfish.

It’s quite disheartening to see, especially when this book was published in the year 2020, a time I’d like to think of as far more progressive than 1913.

The severity of certain subjects from the first book are dealt with more seriously here -- we have murder, a serial killer, attempted rape, and a miscarriage all in quick succession. It’s heavy stuff and is not given the weight such topics deserve. It should be said that these plot points feel entirely out of place in a novel that is described as and appears in most cases to be a light, surface level period piece, When it reads as more of a narrative than a series of events making up a plot, the seriousness of certain issues falls flat and without impact, and undermines the gravity they should bear.

Again, thoroughly researched and obviously written by a fan of the times, this felt like a first draft that could definitely have used more development, as well as the perspective of sensitivity readers.

Thanks to the publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review!

Trigger warning: domestic violence/abuse, insinuated murder, attempted murder, attempted rape, miscarriage, death.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute continuation of the series. I liked the background suffragette storyline, though I wish it hadn't been such a throw away.
Only two complaints: 1) Ben's inner dialogue when he returns was silly. Feels like a woman wrote it trying to act like a man (and that is indeed what happened) and 2) the Aunt Martha storyline felt like a reach. I guess it was to add intrigue, but it just didn't read as authentic. Maybe it would have if Clarke didn't take it to its extreme. It didn't work.
I listened to the book while I was running errands and doing chores. It kept me good company.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sally, Beth, Maggie and Rachel are enjoying living together and working as Harper’s girls. Harper’s is going well and keeping all the girls busy especially Sally who’s keeping everything ticking over in the absence of Ben who is still in America. Beth is worried about her Aunt who definitely isn’t herself since her recent marriage. I really enjoyed catching up with the girls and recommend this book.

[Rhona Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues....

So the "girls" all have a story and there is of course love, romance and marriage. Also a hint of the bounder that I suspected in book one. It makes the books more interesting. Km enjoying them,better than just run of the mill romances as these have the background of the department store in them.

I like all the characters and am looking forward to the next book. ☺️
Highly recommended.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I found this book I didn't know it was a follow up story. I don't think I really needed to read the previous book as I got the gist of what had happened from hints by the author. This is not my usual read but I do like historical novels and this one fitted the bill. Well researched and informative of its time (1913) I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters and am looking forward to finding the next copy on my travels.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is as good as the first one in this series.
I was happy to keep on reading this saga and I found it entertaining and engrossing.
A good read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

[Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great continuation of a good series. Love the descriptions of life in London and the happenings in Harpers. The girls are growing into smart women who are poised to take their places in a more modern world. Cant wat=it to see what happens to them next.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love sagas you will love this book.The girls from Harpers Emporium are grown up and part of the Suffragette movement.Loved reading the history of that time and era.Celebrates the strong bonds of female friendships.Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

[Wanda S Heaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable!

I chose five stars because the story was worth my time to read it. The characters were round and believable. I liked the touch of mystery throughout. I would recommend it.

[Julie Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely second visit to Harpers department store and the girls that work there. All the main characters are so well written and likeable and the author cleverly weaves in historical facts to the story.
Bring on book 3

[Michelle Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming

I just love the harper girls. Can’t wait to read the next one. If you haven’t read them - start with the first one although this one can still be read as a stand-alone

[Lois cowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just loved this next instalment of the Harper girls all started to settle down
And being happy can’t wait for next book due out 1/6
Their lifes all still entwined like first one couldn’t put down

[Josie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book.
The story was a bit slow but that was what kept me hooked, couldn't put it done nearly cried when my ebook died and needed charging cant wait for it to be out in book form.
Kinda felt sorry for aunt Beth wanted to help her so much.
Keep up the good work

[Cheryl Schlesinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m actually enjoying this obscure series found accidentally on Kindle. It’s like reading one long British soap opera series ....! I’m a little hooked. Trying to decide if I should move immediately into book 3 of the series or read something else on my list .....