The sister's relationship had deteriorated so badly that when their mother died Isabelle notified her sister Sylvia by mail even though they both lived in London. The reason? Fourteen years ago Sylvia had married a wealthy physician and turned her back on her mother and sister.  Their mother ran a successful dressmaking shop, Mrs. Shelton's Fashions and Isabelle's life revolved around it.  She was certain she would one day inherit the shop.  What she actually inherited was one half of the business, with the other half going to Sylvia.  Both sisters were shocked. Sylvia didn't want any part of the shop and her sister was determined to buy her out, somehow. But when Isabelle was conscripted into the WAAF she was forced to ask Sylvia for her help. Hoping to somehow forge a relationship with Isabelle, Sylvia readily agrees to run the shop until Isabelle returns.  Sadly, what Sylvia found was a business in shambles and a surly seamstress. Can she turn things around and reconcile with Isabelle?

In THE DRESSMAKERS OF LONDON, by Julia Kelly, the author presents two different but intertwined stories.  The sisters come alive to readers through their distinct voices.  They use letters to communicate while Isabelle is away and with each letter Isabelle's anger and resentment are obvious.  She appears to be oblivious to Sylvia's efforts to apologize and her attempts at humor.  Slowly, running the shop takes on a life of its own as Sylvia's marriage continues to deteriorate.

THE DRESSMAKERS OF LONDON is a beautifully told story about a complicated relationship between two sisters who face both their past and their uncertain future together. Skillfully told with sensitivity, heart and candor, Isabelle and Sylvia's stories are well worth reading.  Highly recommended.