Based in pre-war Blackpool, Charmian Coates latest novel is an inspiring tale where love really does conquer all. The author accurately depicts the struggles women faced in a male dominated world.

The View From Her Window certainly should not be judged by its cover as it proves to be a hard book to put down. The main character, Laura, develops as you read so you feel for her as she battles through her arduous life. Although the book is categorised as romantic fiction there are also many interesting sidelines that help place the story in context, from precise mentions of the war to a whole feminine perspective on the type of problems women would have faced during this period.

Charmian Coates begins by introducing Laura as a recently widowed mother of one. With no family apart from her in-laws, Laura is stuck with no financial security and an unbearable roof over her head. When her brother-in-law tries to force himself on her she is determined to find work and start a new life. Her new life leads her into the arms of Geoffrey, her new and married employer. Unwilling to break-up his marriage and tarnish her reputation, Laura finds new employment. She soon marries again but finds that her life is still intertwined with Geoffrey’s, even after the war.

The View From Her Window is clearly written, considering Charmian Coates writes with grammar used in the early twentieth century. And while the main tale is one of love and loss, you do get a remarkable insight into the attitudes toward women during this period, and the struggles people faced during wartime. A unique romance novel, allowing us to revel in knowing that love can conquer all, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish.