The once-thriving paper mill, which had been abandoned for years, was finally undergoing a transformation. After years of neglect, it was being lovingly renovated into vibrant spaces for small businesses, providing the perfect setting for Devon to establish his dream bakery.
If the walls of the paper mill could talk, they would tell a rich story of wallpaper, printing blocks, its time as a munitions factory, and something much more sinister.
“The Block Room” by Lloyd Harvey delves into profound themes of love, loss, war, crime, tragedy, and friendship. This moving dual-timeline novel contrasts two distinct periods: World War I and the 1990s, all within the shadow of the old paper mill in a Lancashire town. The story draws readers into a compelling narrative that highlights the complexities of human relationships amidst tumultuous circumstances.
The first timeline takes us to the tumultuous period following the Gulf War and the rise in gang warfare in Manchester. The second timeline unfolds against the harrowing backdrop of the First World War, capturing the chaos and uncertainty that defined that era. These narratives intertwine, exploring the enduring scars of warfare, both conventional and gang warfare, and the resilience of the human spirit to overcome the trauma inflicted.
The meticulous attention to historical detail in this book is truly commendable. Harvey masterfully captures both eras, revealing a profound understanding of what makes history not only informative but also captivating. His portrayal of the “Canary Girls” is particularly striking. These women, named for the yellow hue their skin adopted while labouring in British munitions factories during World War I, serve as a poignant reminder of the harrowing conditions they endured. The stark disregard for worker safety during this time is both chilling and powerfully rendered, inviting readers to confront the harsh realities of that era with honesty and depth. As the narrative transitions to the vibrant 1990s, the author brings the decade to life with lively depictions and nostalgic references. For those who grew up in this era, it feels like stepping back into a cherished memory—each detail resonating with the sounds, sights, and cultural touchstones of a time gone by.
This tale features a diverse array of protagonists, each woven into the fabric of the story through intricate family ties or shared locations. Their connections deepen the narrative, highlighting the relationships and influences that shape their paths.
Devon is a deeply complex character, grappling with the haunting psychological aftermath of war. He faces not only the challenges of hearing loss and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) but also the daunting task of reintegrating into civilian life. Amidst this ongoing struggle, he discovers a tranquil haven in the art of baking bread—the warm, yeasty aromas filling the air offer a comforting escape from the turmoil swirling within his mind. This newfound passion ignites a dream within him: to open a bakery, just as his beloved grandmother once did. He stumbles upon the perfect location—a charming old paper mill nestled in a picturesque moorland town north of Manchester. The mill is in the midst of a stunning transformation, being lovingly restored into a lively business hub, vibrant with potential and creativity. All he needs now is the fortitude to do it. Devon is a character who inspires sympathy; his story unfolds with such sensitivity that readers can truly grasp the weight of his experiences. With exceptional care and detail, the portrayal of his PTSD allows readers to vividly envision the challenges he faces and the resilience he must muster in his journey toward healing. His bakery becomes a great source of pride for him, serving as both a creative outlet and a refuge. The comforting rhythm of daily tasks helps him navigate life’s challenges. However, as word of his delicious creations spreads and the bakery’s popularity soars, Devon finds himself working longer and longer hours, pouring his heart and soul into every loaf and pastry. When Dani re-enters his life, he suddenly finds himself reflecting on his choices and circumstances, prompting a profound revaluation of his own existence and what he really wants from life. Slowly, he begins to embrace moments of joy that had long eluded him. As they reconnect, he also begins to unravel the layers of Dani’s complexity, realising that she bears her own heavy burdens. Devon is a compelling character who captures the reader’s heart and inspires unwavering support.
Dani’s character truly propels the narrative forward. The reader first encounters her in a moment of desperation as she makes a daring attempt to escape from her abusive father and the dangerous gang with which he is entangled. Before she flees, she channels all her pent-up anger and resentment into a violent outburst against her father’s car, swinging a wooden bat with ferocity. Aware that her father would never forgive her for this act of defiance, she runs away, seeking refuge in one of Manchester’s most impoverished areas, Hulme Crescents. Amidst a gritty community filled with punks, skinheads, musicians, and students—alongside the ever-present cockroaches and rats—she discovers a space where she can finally take a deep breath. Here, in this chaotic yet vibrant environment, she clings to the hope that no one will find her, at least not for a while. And although she keeps herself to herself, she does make friends with a punk called Fez, and Bikey, a man thus named for he likes to tinker with bikes! But, this sanctuary, if you could call it that, is earmarked for demolition, and so she has to find somewhere else to live. Dani is a profoundly complex character shaped by the haunting horrors she has endured throughout her life. Like Devon, she carries deep emotional scars that manifest in her everyday existence, with the sound of fireworks serving as a particularly jarring trigger, reigniting her trauma. When she finally summons the courage to leave the cacophony of the city behind and seek refuge with her grandmother in a quieter, more serene environment, she experiences a fleeting sense of peace. Yet, despite this respite, the shadows of her past loom large, continuously hovering over her. This unsettling presence instils a deep sense of anxiety in the reader, who finds themselves fearing not only for her physical safety but also for the fragility of her mental well-being.
Harriette, a talented musician and a warm-hearted grandmother, offers a comforting sense of stability and love for Dani. With open arms and a gentle smile, she embraces Dani, providing a heartfelt contrast to the cold demeanour of Dani’s father, Harriette’s own son. Although Harriette often appears stoic about certain subjects, her caring nature shines through, revealing a deep well of anxiety intertwined with quiet strength. This complexity adds depth to her character, especially when compared to Dani’s more expressive and outwardly emotional disposition.
Ellen embodies a fierce spirit similar to that of her great-granddaughter, Dani, yet she carries with her the gentle demeanour of her daughter, Harriette. As the clouds of war gather over Europe, Ellen returns to her hometown of Dardale, a place filled with memories and expectations. Here, she must face her father, a staunch traditionalist, and navigate his reactions to her active involvement in the women’s suffrage movement. Compounding this tension is the surprising decision by her father to enlist in the army, a choice that shakes their family dynamics to the core. Ellen’s narrative unfolds with a well-defined arc, moving from Ellen’s initial dreams of liberation and adventure to a poignant acceptance of her new role at the local paper mill, where the rhythm of machinery contrasts with her restless spirit. As a deeply developed protagonist, Ellen grapples with the conflict between her ambitions and the pressure of familial obligations.
From the moment Ellen locks eyes with Joe, an electrifying spark ignites between them, drawing her in like a moth to a flickering flame. His effortless charm and magnetic allure ensnare her senses, making it hard to resist the pull of his presence. Yet, beneath his captivating beauty lies a tangled web of secrets—dark truths concealed in the shadows that threaten to unravel their fragile bond if Ellen were ever to discover them. Joe presents himself as a genuinely kind man, a journalist deeply invested in Ellen’s passionate plea for suitable protective clothing for the women labouring in the munition factory. He recognises in her a kindred spirit, someone worthy of understanding and compassion. However, Joe is acutely aware that he cannot afford the luxury of falling in love; in his world, love breeds recklessness, and he must always keep his guard up, safeguarding the fragile facade he has built to protect himself from the dangers lurking not only in his past but also in his present. Joe undeniably infuses the narrative with an air of mystery, and though he glides through Dardale like a fleeting shadow, the echoes of his presence linger long after, resonating through the decades.
This story features a variety of antagonists, starting with Deni’s father and extending back in time to Harold Yates, the foreman and factory manager that Ellen works for. Yates’s refusal to properly pursue the necessary equipment for safe work conditions starkly illustrates the neglect within the factory. The conditions in the factory are subtlety compared to what is happening on the front line, everyday women are risking their lives by being exposed to the chemicals in TNT. In addition, a diverse ensemble of supporting characters plays vital roles in driving the plot forward, each contributing to the narrative’s development and complexity.
The setting plays a crucial role in establishing the mood and atmosphere of the story. The descriptions of the autumn estate, the charming town, the bustling bakery, the secluded print room, and the still water of the canal create distinct environments that influence the characters’ emotions and actions. The setting effectively conveys the passage of time, the lingering effects of past events, and the contrasting moods throughout the narrative. The detail is rich yet never overwhelming, enhancing the immersive quality of the writing.
“The Block Room” by Lloyd Harvey is a mesmerising novel that enchants readers with its richly woven narrative. With strikingly vivid descriptions, readers can easily visualise the unique settings and emotions that unfold. The protagonists are not only compelling but also deeply relatable, navigating a journey filled with twists and revelations. The intricate plot expertly intertwines suspense and intrigue, ensuring an engaging and immersive reading experience that lingers long after the last page is turned.
