What do you think?
Ladies' Day
Working in a fading Manchester department store, four women hide their dark secrets: abuse, an illicit affair, huge debts and an overwhelming desire to have a child at any cost. Will their secrets destroy them or can they together find a solution?
342 pages, Paperback
Published June 27, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
June 29, 2018
Well if ever a book was made for lazy sunny days at the side of a pool or in the garden it was this one. This is one little gem of a read following four women, all very different, with the thing bringing them together being that they all work in the same department store. If anything they are probably the most unlikely set of friends that you would normally find. Three things that they do have in common is firstly they are judgmental of each other, secondly they all have secrets and lastly they have only got each other.
The chapters alternate between the four women as I got to learn about their complicated lives inside and outside work. This was before they sort of found each other and preconceived judgements they had began to dissolve. Loved the idea that they bonded in the ladies at work, common ground where at some point they all had to visit in the course of a day.
There are real cringing moments at the choices they make, like the quick fix that just makes things so much worse. But the humour in amongst all the turmoil is just so brilliant, the real proper laughing moments that still keep coming back to me. In fact I don’t think that I will ever be able to view a house, with the intention of buying or renting again and not laugh at the person showing me round. I can’t even pick up a toilet brush without grinning!
I think if I had to pick a favourite character in the story to would be Hayley, though all of them have a special something. A brilliant story from the starting gate to the finishing post! A super debut. I really hope this lady has more to come!
The chapters alternate between the four women as I got to learn about their complicated lives inside and outside work. This was before they sort of found each other and preconceived judgements they had began to dissolve. Loved the idea that they bonded in the ladies at work, common ground where at some point they all had to visit in the course of a day.
There are real cringing moments at the choices they make, like the quick fix that just makes things so much worse. But the humour in amongst all the turmoil is just so brilliant, the real proper laughing moments that still keep coming back to me. In fact I don’t think that I will ever be able to view a house, with the intention of buying or renting again and not laugh at the person showing me round. I can’t even pick up a toilet brush without grinning!
I think if I had to pick a favourite character in the story to would be Hayley, though all of them have a special something. A brilliant story from the starting gate to the finishing post! A super debut. I really hope this lady has more to come!
July 7, 2018
Sarah Barton’s debut novel is a delightful summer read: light without being frothy, gently funny and poignant, it’s a tale of female friendship, overcoming adversity and trusting your instincts.
Four women with only one thing in common at the start of the story – they work in a dilapidated department store in Manchester – find strength from within and each other when their paths cross. They’re wrestling some heavy weight problems: domestic violence, debt, infertility and unplanned pregnancy, but in Barton’s hands the story never feels depressing or hopeless. Quite the reverse. A chunk of money would solve some of their problems and it’s no spoiler to say that a day at the races is key (the title’s a giveaway). But, money isn’t everything – friendship and female solidarity is where it’s at. To say much more would be to give too much away. After a slow start (a little too slow for me, though I acknowledge I’m impatient) the plot gathers momentum and the characters are well-drawn and believable. If you enjoy undemanding, gentle reads with a few laughs then this will do very nicely indeed.
Sarah Barton is a talented writer and I’ll be watching what she does next with a keen eye.
Four women with only one thing in common at the start of the story – they work in a dilapidated department store in Manchester – find strength from within and each other when their paths cross. They’re wrestling some heavy weight problems: domestic violence, debt, infertility and unplanned pregnancy, but in Barton’s hands the story never feels depressing or hopeless. Quite the reverse. A chunk of money would solve some of their problems and it’s no spoiler to say that a day at the races is key (the title’s a giveaway). But, money isn’t everything – friendship and female solidarity is where it’s at. To say much more would be to give too much away. After a slow start (a little too slow for me, though I acknowledge I’m impatient) the plot gathers momentum and the characters are well-drawn and believable. If you enjoy undemanding, gentle reads with a few laughs then this will do very nicely indeed.
Sarah Barton is a talented writer and I’ll be watching what she does next with a keen eye.
June 30, 2018
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This book was a really nice surprise for me, the blurb doesn't really give much was so I wasn't sure how the story would read but it is a delightful story that I thoroughly enjoyed!
It was the perfect summer read for me and I read it on one of the lovely days of sunshine we have had this year. The characters are fabulous and I loved the plotline, they all bring a special something to the story and I loved how they interacted and the secrets they hold are revealed. It is an excellent debut.
Five stars from me - a really enjoyable story!
This book was a really nice surprise for me, the blurb doesn't really give much was so I wasn't sure how the story would read but it is a delightful story that I thoroughly enjoyed!
It was the perfect summer read for me and I read it on one of the lovely days of sunshine we have had this year. The characters are fabulous and I loved the plotline, they all bring a special something to the story and I loved how they interacted and the secrets they hold are revealed. It is an excellent debut.
Five stars from me - a really enjoyable story!
June 30, 2018
Come with me to Pelthams, the Manchester department store with its fading glory where nothing is what it seems and many a secret is kept… Ladies’ Day is Sarah Barton’s fascinating, entertaining and enchanting debut novel that touches your heart and brings both a smile to your face and a tear to your eyes. I love it!
| Introduction |
It is May and whilst her mother keeps nagging at her, Amanda is examining her metal box which “held every penny that she had been able to squirrel away” for the past two months. Clearly, she is preparing for something but as to what, we have no idea. ‘They” will be here soon – Marianne, Hayley, and Jane. Four ladies, ready for “the biggest day of their lives,” that will bring the much-desired life change or their descent into misery. What intricate plan are they executing? To find out, we go back two months in time…
| Storyline |
Marianne is overly excited to be unpacking boxes and boxes of exquisite lingerie and wishes she could purchase it all. Only to please her husband, of course. Her life is perfect apart from a tiny little thing that for now, she keeps a secret. Amanda cannot possibly imagine why Marianne would buy the umpteenth nightgown and is not just a little annoyed that Marianne, instead of getting on with her work, sits there with dreamy eyes examining every single one of the new stock. Marianne meanwhile, envies Amanda for her doting husband, David. If only she knew… Hayley has her own troubles: she longs to become a mother. The store’s baby department is the one place that at times is too painful to access. When an opportunity arises providing funds for the expensive IVF procedure, she seizes it and, even if this turns nasty, Hayley now is completely focussed on achieving her goal. As it turns out, she has unexpected talents…
Head of the ladies’ department of the Manchester store is Jane, who is entangled in an affair with her boss, Tony Pickard. We all know he is dangling promises before her, promises he will never keep, right? Even Jane has noticed his wandering eye. A friend to confide in would be nice for Jane but alas for our ‘Ice Queen’, she has none. Then there is Charlie, the doorman, who has a pretty accurate remark for every occasion – funnily enough, he has no idea because, for him, it is all about the horses. In his way, he looks after the women working at the Manchester department store – it is not until Charlie has to apprehend a shoplifter, Ada, that we see another side of him. Ada is good for him but how well she takes care of him, that is for you to find out… The four ladies are getting more and more entrapped in the webs they weave and we very much doubt how they will ever get their lives back on track. For that, they might need help…
| My Thoughts |
I loved Ladies’ Day! Sarah Barton takes you with her makes you part of the women’s life stories. As such, you know when a response is totally wrong and you feel joy with your character when something wonderful happens (which character that is you will have to find out for yourself!). There is romance and sadness, deceit and (false) hopes, there are brilliant dialogues (again, you need to read it because I am surely not telling you now!) that made me smile with a tear in my eye. I thought I had a favourite character but actually, I am torn between three of them and I cannot even share them with you! Oh, and I do want to mention Charlie who stole my heart – kind and friendly Charlie – such an endearing character!
Ladies’ Day is a wonderful combination of the lives of four – but I need to say there is a fifth who deserves an honourable mention as well – women who find themselves stuck in their situation in life. Each has her own problems, but each cannot solve it alone. Some stories you just know how they will end, some are simply too funny and take a turn I did not see coming! Despite the sometimes serious topics, this is a hilarious, light-hearted, but also touching and inspiring story of friendship. Of how you need others in your life and how you can surprise them and yourself by taking a road not travelled before. Of recognising you are stronger than you think you are – of daring to take matters – life – into your own hands.
Sarah Barton’s well-written debut is a humorous, a little bit naughty, heart-warming, entertaining and engaging novel I heartily recommend!
Read the full review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/ladies...
| Introduction |
It is May and whilst her mother keeps nagging at her, Amanda is examining her metal box which “held every penny that she had been able to squirrel away” for the past two months. Clearly, she is preparing for something but as to what, we have no idea. ‘They” will be here soon – Marianne, Hayley, and Jane. Four ladies, ready for “the biggest day of their lives,” that will bring the much-desired life change or their descent into misery. What intricate plan are they executing? To find out, we go back two months in time…
| Storyline |
Marianne is overly excited to be unpacking boxes and boxes of exquisite lingerie and wishes she could purchase it all. Only to please her husband, of course. Her life is perfect apart from a tiny little thing that for now, she keeps a secret. Amanda cannot possibly imagine why Marianne would buy the umpteenth nightgown and is not just a little annoyed that Marianne, instead of getting on with her work, sits there with dreamy eyes examining every single one of the new stock. Marianne meanwhile, envies Amanda for her doting husband, David. If only she knew… Hayley has her own troubles: she longs to become a mother. The store’s baby department is the one place that at times is too painful to access. When an opportunity arises providing funds for the expensive IVF procedure, she seizes it and, even if this turns nasty, Hayley now is completely focussed on achieving her goal. As it turns out, she has unexpected talents…
Head of the ladies’ department of the Manchester store is Jane, who is entangled in an affair with her boss, Tony Pickard. We all know he is dangling promises before her, promises he will never keep, right? Even Jane has noticed his wandering eye. A friend to confide in would be nice for Jane but alas for our ‘Ice Queen’, she has none. Then there is Charlie, the doorman, who has a pretty accurate remark for every occasion – funnily enough, he has no idea because, for him, it is all about the horses. In his way, he looks after the women working at the Manchester department store – it is not until Charlie has to apprehend a shoplifter, Ada, that we see another side of him. Ada is good for him but how well she takes care of him, that is for you to find out… The four ladies are getting more and more entrapped in the webs they weave and we very much doubt how they will ever get their lives back on track. For that, they might need help…
| My Thoughts |
I loved Ladies’ Day! Sarah Barton takes you with her makes you part of the women’s life stories. As such, you know when a response is totally wrong and you feel joy with your character when something wonderful happens (which character that is you will have to find out for yourself!). There is romance and sadness, deceit and (false) hopes, there are brilliant dialogues (again, you need to read it because I am surely not telling you now!) that made me smile with a tear in my eye. I thought I had a favourite character but actually, I am torn between three of them and I cannot even share them with you! Oh, and I do want to mention Charlie who stole my heart – kind and friendly Charlie – such an endearing character!
Ladies’ Day is a wonderful combination of the lives of four – but I need to say there is a fifth who deserves an honourable mention as well – women who find themselves stuck in their situation in life. Each has her own problems, but each cannot solve it alone. Some stories you just know how they will end, some are simply too funny and take a turn I did not see coming! Despite the sometimes serious topics, this is a hilarious, light-hearted, but also touching and inspiring story of friendship. Of how you need others in your life and how you can surprise them and yourself by taking a road not travelled before. Of recognising you are stronger than you think you are – of daring to take matters – life – into your own hands.
Sarah Barton’s well-written debut is a humorous, a little bit naughty, heart-warming, entertaining and engaging novel I heartily recommend!
Read the full review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/ladies...
January 29, 2021
This is a well written and evocative novel that has a great deal to recommend it. The story of four women, all of whom come off the page as fully rounded characters. The situations they face are interesting and worrying, and ultimately, they get resolved.
I asked Facebook feeds for a recommendation of romantic novels and this was one that came up. I have to say, I asked for stuff that would cheer me up as I was feeling low, and this one didn't quite fit the bill. The first 100 or so pages that set out where these women were in their lives were good, but they weren't light and fluffy like I was looking for, however, each storyline caught me and I couldn't not read it. I did read-cheat on this one - i.e. read two other books while I was reading this one as mood enhancers, but I did finish it.
The final resolution was great, and I am pleased for the women, but I was left slightly uncertain. The message seemed to be that money solves all problems. It certainly would be a big help for these four, but I was ultimately left wondering if anyone learned the real life lesson; Jane perhaps, Amanda quite possibly, but Hailey and Marianne - no, while they solved their immediate problems, couldn't see the real resolution there.
Glad I've read it, would give the author another read, but ultimately left unsatisfied by this one.
I asked Facebook feeds for a recommendation of romantic novels and this was one that came up. I have to say, I asked for stuff that would cheer me up as I was feeling low, and this one didn't quite fit the bill. The first 100 or so pages that set out where these women were in their lives were good, but they weren't light and fluffy like I was looking for, however, each storyline caught me and I couldn't not read it. I did read-cheat on this one - i.e. read two other books while I was reading this one as mood enhancers, but I did finish it.
The final resolution was great, and I am pleased for the women, but I was left slightly uncertain. The message seemed to be that money solves all problems. It certainly would be a big help for these four, but I was ultimately left wondering if anyone learned the real life lesson; Jane perhaps, Amanda quite possibly, but Hailey and Marianne - no, while they solved their immediate problems, couldn't see the real resolution there.
Glad I've read it, would give the author another read, but ultimately left unsatisfied by this one.
July 5, 2018
After reading the blurb on the book, I was not sure what to expect. It really gave me no idea of the rich and compelling characters I was about to meet.
I started this book and did something I rarely do – read two pages and put it down – not because of the book but because of life. However, I could not get the first character, Amanda, out of my head. Once I opened the book back up, I did not stop until I was done.
The variety and depth of each of the four main women is well portrayed. I especially enjoyed the interactions between the woman and the misconceptions that occur in a lot of female work friends and at the beginning of friendships. You know that one that you think is one thing but reality is very different?
There are some minor characters who step into and out of the story and each time enriches the scene. The story, like a department story has the constants and the transients and each add their own supplement to the story.
This book made me wish I had a beach to sit on while I read it.
I started this book and did something I rarely do – read two pages and put it down – not because of the book but because of life. However, I could not get the first character, Amanda, out of my head. Once I opened the book back up, I did not stop until I was done.
The variety and depth of each of the four main women is well portrayed. I especially enjoyed the interactions between the woman and the misconceptions that occur in a lot of female work friends and at the beginning of friendships. You know that one that you think is one thing but reality is very different?
There are some minor characters who step into and out of the story and each time enriches the scene. The story, like a department story has the constants and the transients and each add their own supplement to the story.
This book made me wish I had a beach to sit on while I read it.
August 28, 2018
Brilliant, couldn’t put down !
I saved this book to read this book on a 4 hour flight and was disappointed to land at my destination as I still had a few chapters to read, the flight had never gone so quick before. It is a fantastic book and you could really understand and relate to the characters, finished the book the same day. Would recommend 100%.
I saved this book to read this book on a 4 hour flight and was disappointed to land at my destination as I still had a few chapters to read, the flight had never gone so quick before. It is a fantastic book and you could really understand and relate to the characters, finished the book the same day. Would recommend 100%.
June 27, 2018
Excellent... review to follow for blog tour
November 19, 2019
A well written story, fast paced and eventful all through. Perfect book to read on holiday. Short chapters and funny in parts. A great first novel by Sarah Barton.
September 9, 2021
Ladies day
Great read four girls all different but all the same everyone with a problem to solve loved this book excellent
Great read four girls all different but all the same everyone with a problem to solve loved this book excellent
July 27, 2018
I was invited to review this book by another author keen to share the word about his friend’s first novel. With nothing other than the cover and blurb to whet my appetite I was not sure what to expect. What I’m pleased to say, is that this was a very accomplished and engaging debut.
The story focuses around, Amanda, Marianne, Hayley and Jane who all work at Peltham’s, a fading Manchester department store. The story unfolds via alternating chapters that tell each woman’s individual story, while integrating them into a narrative that gives a wider picture of the store and it’s troubles. Initially wary, if not downright disapproving of each other in some cases, the four forge an unexpected bond. It’s a bond and a friendship that helps each strengthen their own resolve to sort their individual problems. It’s a reminder not to be judgemental – none of us know what goes on in someones head, or at home behind closed doors. It also serves to acknowledge the adage that a problem shared is a problem halved, or in this case quartered. Definitely a case of four heads are better than one.
The fairly brief blurb and possibly simplistic idea for a story, belies a novel that has rich characters, dark and dramatic secrets and a warmth and humour that balances and brings everything together into a cohesive whole. The themes covered are universal and unflinchingly dealt with as the women struggle with domestic abuse, debt, infertility and ironically given the latter, an unwanted pregnancy. It’s a story that has light and shade, definite goodies (the wonderful Charlie) and baddies (David, there is a circle of hell reserved just for you) and humorous interludes (Ada the shoplifter and a seedy neighbour). Given that the book has female friendship and solidarity at it’s heart, it would have been easy to give way to typical male stereotypes but what I loved about this book was that never happened. For every bad male character there was a good, honest decent man, ready to step up and show that not all men are the same.
I’m loath to really reveal much more than is told in the blurb as the joy lies in discovering each character, their problems and the ingenious solutions to some of them. Not all of which can be guessed at from the title. With such a strong debut I’m certainly looking forward to reading more from this author.
The story focuses around, Amanda, Marianne, Hayley and Jane who all work at Peltham’s, a fading Manchester department store. The story unfolds via alternating chapters that tell each woman’s individual story, while integrating them into a narrative that gives a wider picture of the store and it’s troubles. Initially wary, if not downright disapproving of each other in some cases, the four forge an unexpected bond. It’s a bond and a friendship that helps each strengthen their own resolve to sort their individual problems. It’s a reminder not to be judgemental – none of us know what goes on in someones head, or at home behind closed doors. It also serves to acknowledge the adage that a problem shared is a problem halved, or in this case quartered. Definitely a case of four heads are better than one.
The fairly brief blurb and possibly simplistic idea for a story, belies a novel that has rich characters, dark and dramatic secrets and a warmth and humour that balances and brings everything together into a cohesive whole. The themes covered are universal and unflinchingly dealt with as the women struggle with domestic abuse, debt, infertility and ironically given the latter, an unwanted pregnancy. It’s a story that has light and shade, definite goodies (the wonderful Charlie) and baddies (David, there is a circle of hell reserved just for you) and humorous interludes (Ada the shoplifter and a seedy neighbour). Given that the book has female friendship and solidarity at it’s heart, it would have been easy to give way to typical male stereotypes but what I loved about this book was that never happened. For every bad male character there was a good, honest decent man, ready to step up and show that not all men are the same.
I’m loath to really reveal much more than is told in the blurb as the joy lies in discovering each character, their problems and the ingenious solutions to some of them. Not all of which can be guessed at from the title. With such a strong debut I’m certainly looking forward to reading more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews