The Last Bookshop in London: A Novel of World War II

by Madeline Martin

Book Overview

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

"An irresistible tale which showcases the transformative power of literacy, reminding us of the hope and sanctuary our neighborhood bookstores offer during the perilous trials of war and unrest."

--KIM MICHELE RICHARDSON, author of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

August 1939: London prepares for war as Hitler's forces sweep across Europe...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 133528480X
• ISBN13: 9781335284808
• Release Date: April 2021
• Publisher: Hanover Square Press
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 0.53 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.3" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

expected more

Found the characters flat.The dialog not believable in some places-don't think a young woman in the 1940s would say "amazing" nor would a young girl call a female a "hero."Rather rote descriptions of everything. The whole plot and ending was just too pat.Some authors are good story tellers,but not necessarily good writers,this author is neither.

A book about books - what is better than that?

Grace isn't sure about the job she is able to secure. She has never really read a book nor does she know anything about them really. But as the war comes closer to home and nerves are raw, books bring an unlikely group of people together. Reading this has inspired me to want to read The Count of Monte Cristo, a book I never thought I would tackle.

Heartwarming Story of Courage & Love in the Midst of World War II

I loved this story. Though sad at times, it warmed my heart. I laughed and cried as I followed the adventures of a young woman whose life is turned upside down by World War II. With courage and fortitude, she along with her boss and landlady do all they can for the war effort. She learns to love books and share that love with others. Classic stories give bright spots away from the bombs that come like clockwork. A great story! I highly recommend it!!!!!!!!!!

The Last Bookshop in London

Sadly I have just finished this book. Words cannot even begin to describe how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. Now I need to look for more like it. Grace Bennett is a most delightful heroine. This book starts with England being on the brink of World War II. After the death of her mother Grace literally has nowhere to go. One of her mother's friends in London offers her refuge in her boarding house. Grace travels to London with her best friend Viv. They each find jobs - Viv goes to work at Harrod's and Grace goes to work in a dilapidated used book store. Grace is a wonderfully bright and beautiful young lady who makes friends where ever she goes. She soon wins over her employer - Mr Evans - and begins to transform his bookshop into a place that people really want to go to buy books. She meets a young man - George - who re-kindles a love for books in her. Then World War II starts and London gets bombed - and bombed - and bombed. Through it all Grace shines. She becomes a beacon of hope for people. After I have read a few more books I think I shall re-read this book. That is how much I love it.

Wonderful story!

Loved this story, it’s a wonderful book. If you like books, you’ll feel better after reading this.

Fell into this story just like the characters

This was a wonderful book. Full of hope, sadness, and love of friends who become family. I am so glad it was recommended to me. I don't tend to gravitate toward books set during wars, but in this case I'm glad I read it.