Shake Down the Stars by Frances Donnelly is a deep immersion into England 1939 to 1945 and three young women. It's a turbulent time, six dramatic years that shaped these women, friends, families, and lovers.
At a village garden party, we meet Virginia Musgrave - gorgeous, spoiled. Lucy Hallett - sensible, compassionate. Beattie Blythe, intelligent and lovely. Also the Musgrave's gardener's daughter. Everyone knows their place in this village hierarchy of wealth and privilege.
Then war turns each woman's life upside down. No debut for Virginia - instead life is rationing, real work, and casual affairs. She's a classic bitch.
Beattie - her first lover proves to be a bad decision. She's obsessed and that proves to be trouble.
Lucy - a sudden war bride, volunteer work that immerses her. She's a backbone to the Virginia and Beattie story.
Donnelly's work intertwines these women against the backdrop of war and strong airmen who fly each night and confront death. This is not a frothy read. You will truly feel the struggles of these women as they find their way. The emotions are real, the dialogue does deep, and you will be surprised at some decisions. Shake Down the Stars kept me engaged and intrigued, mad and annoyed. I felt like I knew these women and I wanted to give my opinion on their lives. Great writing!
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