Sims and Clare state that Bruce "was perhaps the most skilful exponent of the traditional girls’ school story of the 20s and 30s, with plots deftly exploring the narrative potential of the schoolgirl community, in particular relationships between girls of different age groups and conflicts between friendship and rivalry. Even the elements of mystery and adventure are wholly integrated into the plots." Cadogan, in comparing Bruce with Angela Brazil states that "Bruce's plots and characterizations have a subtlety and an uncontrived exuberance that are lacking in many of Brazil's stories" Clare states that the overall quality of Bruce's books is higher than those of Oxenham or Brent-Dryer.