Summer 1940. As bombs fall over London, another battle is raging deep within Britain’s forests. A war few believe women are strong enough to fight.
Fresh from forestry training camp, Keeva O’Connor and her fellow Lumberjills are sent to fell trees vital to the war effort. In the forests, they are watched, men mock their work and danger lurks in the shadows.
In the villages, trust is fragile, doors slam in their faces and suspicion grows. As romance kindles, rumours spread and friendships are tested by secrets, jealousies and forbidden longings.
When the Lumberjills are accused of espionage, can Keeva uncover the truth before prejudice tears their tender bonds of sisterhood apart?
Inspired by true events, this is a gripping story of resilience, friendship and love, bringing to life the forgotten story of the Lumberjills in World War Two – and the secrets they risked everything to protect.
“Meticulous research and engaging storytelling. The strength of female friendship shines through on every page.
A wonderful book.”
Louise Morrish
“Joanna Foat brings the 1940s Lumberjills to life with vivacity and flair.”
Alice Fowler
“Crackles with energy. Inspired by stories from the real Lumberjills in WW2, the shining authenticity of Foat’s voice stands out.”
Suzanne Goldring
Suzanne Goldring
best-selling author of My Name is Eva
"A powerful novel of hardship and friendship, based on the author’s own original research. I was rooting for these girls to prove themselves on their challenging adventure."
When war breaks out, three spirited women must set aside their differences to help Britain win the war. Fighting from the forests, they find new depths of courage, strength and love. But – when war threatens everything – would you risk your life to save a friend?
When feisty, bohemian Keeva signs up for war work in the forest, she’s already learnt the hard way that people can’t be trusted. For Rosie, a factory girl from London’s East End, the forest is an escape – but she can’t stop her big mouth getting her into trouble. And Beatrice, a wealthy debutante, wants to use her brain, not ruin her fine hands felling trees. Meanwhile, Lady Denman, director of the Women’s Land Army, battles with bureaucrats in Whitehall to defend the Lumberjills.
As these strong women struggle to survive in a tough men's world, it seems they really may succeed in their dangerous war work… when a terrible disaster strikes and threatens everything they have achieved.
The Lumberjills Stronger Togetheris inspired by the incredible and heroic true stories of the Women’s Timber Corps, a branch of the Women’s Land Army. Author Joanna Foat researched and interviewed sixty women who served as Lumberjills in World War II. These first-hand accounts, and her own passion for adventure in wild landscapes, bring a rugged authenticity to this emotionally rousing novel of female courage, strength and determination.
I was so thrilled that the front cover of my debut novel, The Lumberjills Stronger Together, was selected as a GOLD Award Winner in the prestigious and internationally acclaimed Graphis Design Awards (2025).
Congratulations to my brilliant US book cover designer Richard Ljoenes. Front cover photograph Rekha Garton © Arcangel Images.
I'm excited that the second novel in the beloved Lumberjills series is shaping up, brimming with mischief and feisty escapades! Keeva, Beatrice, and Rosie are back, embarking on more exhilarating adventures to keep you on the edge of your seat.
For those who have enjoyed my Lumberjills talks, you'll be delighted to discover that many of your favourite tales from these heroic women are intricately woven into this upcoming book.
© Copyright Joanna Foat 2026
