I usually make a point of reading a series in order, but so enjoyed my first foray into Laura Lee Hope's The Blythe Girls, that I passed from the first to the fourth volume, those being the only two I (presently) own. Like many such books, the previous adventures are summarized at the beginning of the novel, allowing the reader to enter into the present story without feeling at a loss...

Set in 1920s New York City, this twelve-book series follows the story of the three Blythe sisters, whose poverty after the death of their mother and father forces them to leave their home on Long Island, and seek work in the big city. Artistic Helen, spirited Margy, and joyful Rose - still struggling to make successes of themselves - must contend in Helen's Strange Boarder with everything from a department-store fire to a train crash. Confronting the unexpectedly related mysteries of a missing woman (who may or may not have perished in the aforementioned fire), and a persecuted young heiress on the run from her dastardly uncle, the girls' common sense and kindness to strangers stand them in good stead...

As mentioned in my review of the first installment of The Blythe Girls, Helen, Margy and Rose, there is little here beyond the pleasant, surface-level narrative. But the story is entertaining and engaging for all that, and I continue to feel interested in the characters, their friends, and their growing romances.

Addendum: I enjoyed this as much on my recent reread as when I first picked it up, and felt I better understood the story, having now tracked down and read the second and third entry in the Blythe Girls series. Although the tale is highly unlikely, it is pleasant and entertaining, particularly for New York readers who can identify with certain aspects of the story. Given the setting, U can understand why the New York Public Library has the entire series in their collection. ( )