Lavender Road, the first in a series by Helen Carey, recounts the experiences of several families from myriad backgrounds living on the same street in 1939 with the advent of WWII. At the top of the street and the social ladder are the Rutherfords and at the opposite end are the Carters, with the Nelsons somewhere in the middle. Figuring prominently are several men whose intentions toward the very willing Rutherford and Carter daughters are questionable.

This is an interesting aspect of English history. Hitler is often mentioned as the bombings increase, and the war impacts many lives in unexpected ways. It is an entertaining read, although there are few surprises in the interactions of the denizens of Lavender Road. ( )

As the title implies, the action of this book and its characters originate from Lavender Road in London, England. The inhabitants are of varied ages, but the book primarily deals with those between the ages of 14 and 40+ and most are economically lower middle class to middle class, though there are a few houses financially better positioned. In the main, the inhabitants get along together well, with the odd social disagreement or racial bump in the road. As the book opens WW II is imminent.

The characters are well drawn, diverse, and their actions believable, though not necessarily likable. The historical research was accurate, though I'm sure the timelines were sometimes lengthened or shortened to make the action more interesting. The middle of the book seemed to me to be a bit soap operish, but it was otherwise an enjoyable read, with occasional moments of laughter. ( )