Unfolding the Layers of “The Making of Marigold McGrath” by Carrie Hayes: A Dive into WWII London

New York City, 1937. Seventeen-year-old Marigold McGrath is coming undone.

Beneath the heavy weight of grief from her mother's death and her father's troubling involvement in politics, young Marigold grapples with her sense of identity and purpose. The only solace she finds is through her camera, where she can capture the world, framing her own narrative amidst the chaos.

The novel transitions to London, where Marigold embarks on a transformative journey. Under the mentorship of a renowned émigré photographer, she not only hones her craft but also captures the poignant stories of Kindertransport children. Amidst her burgeoning career, Marigold experiences the intoxicating thrill of first love with Joop, an appealing Dutch student.Yet as the specter of war looms ominously, she remains oblivious to the darkness encroaching on her life.

Then the Blitz begins.

As the bombings erupt, Joop disappears into the Dutch Resistance, thrusting Marigold into a moment of profound self-reflection. For a young woman accustomed to creating an idealized version of the world through her lens, the brutal reality of war demands a reckoning. With her world unraveling, Marigold must confront what type of woman she aspires to be and how she wants to witness the turmoil surrounding her.

A sweeping WWII coming-of-age novel set in wartime London.

This poignant narrative offers a unique exploration of themes relevant to young adults, specifically how they navigate their paths amidst the horrors of global conflict. Tales like Marigold’s resonate strongly with contemporary readers, inviting comparisons with authors such as Kristin Hannah, Kate Quinn, and SL Beaumont, particularly her work The War Photographers.

Critical Acclaim

Hayes's latest entry has garnered enthusiastic feedback from various quarters. One reviewer from Netgalley expressed, "I read a lot of historical novels, and this one was one of my favorites... I really didn’t want it to end!" Such sentiments highlight the immersive quality of the storytelling, which is further enhanced by the rich character development and robust dialogues.

A Goodreads reviewer raved, "The Making of Marigold McGrath is exquisitely written with well-paced dialogue. The characters are well-formed and interesting." Interspersed throughout the narrative are excerpts from news outlets that offer a larger context to the unfolding events, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the complex socio-political landscape of the era.

More than just a coming-of-age story, the book highlights a seldom-explored facet of WWII: the difficult journey to maturity faced by young adults in war-torn Europe. This is acutely portrayed through Marigold's evolving role as a photographer documenting the human stories engulfed by conflict.

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Courage

Readers who appreciate vivid imagery and historical references will find themselves captivated by Marigold’s journey. The narrative is marked by clear, authentic depictions of wartime London, which Hayes meticulously researched to ensure it resonates with the reality of that time period. The intriguing blend of romance and historical intrigue elevates the emotional stakes of the tale.

In one review, a reader shared, "The Making of Marigold McGrath explores young adults' maturity journeys as they seek human connection and meaning amidst war." This reflection speaks to the heart of Hayes's narrative — the struggle for identity, love, and purpose during tumultuous times.

Conclusion: A Must-Read for Historical Fiction Fans

Ultimately, Marigold's story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the determination to emerge from the shadows of personal and collective tragedies. The book takes readers to unexpected emotional places, culminating in a surprise ending that feels earned. For those who relish WWII fiction, particularly the intertwining themes of photography and the experiences of the Dutch Resistance, The Making of Marigold McGrath is a poignant and essential read.

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About Carrie Hayes

Carrie Hayes is no newcomer to the literary world. Before The Making of Marigold McGrath, she authored novels such as Naked Truth or Equality and Well Dressed Lies, where she explored the lives of iconoclastic suffragist sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin.

Making her home just outside New York City, Carrie shares her space with her husband and their two pampered dogs, fostering an environment that inspires her storytelling.

To learn more about Carrie Hayes, visit her website.

Stay connected with Carrie on Facebook, Instagram, or follow her work on Substack.