Chocolate Girls

In a City at War, Friendship and Love Are the Sweetest Comforts

Chocolate Girls by bestselling author Annie Murray, published by Pan Macmillan in 2008, is a heartwarming and poignant saga set in wartime Birmingham. Set against the backdrop of the famous Cadbury’s chocolate factory in Bournville, this is a story of friendship, love, and the strength of women during the darkest times.

For young sisters Edie and Ruby, and their friend Janet, life working at the Cadbury factory offers more than just a job—it brings friendship, laughter, and a sense of purpose. As the shadow of World War II looms over their tight-knit community, the girls must navigate love, heartbreak, and personal sacrifice amidst the chaos of bombing raids and ration lines.

Each woman faces her own challenges, from forbidden romance to family secrets, but together they find the courage to hold on to hope and fight for a brighter future. Through tragedy and triumph, their bond remains unbreakable.

Chocolate Girls is a beautifully told, emotionally charged novel that captures the spirit of a generation of women who kept the home fires burning. Perfect for fans of Maureen Lee, Dilly Court, and heartfelt historical fiction that celebrates resilience, community, and the sweetness of life, even in hard times.