Madeline Martin

August 1939: London prepares for war as Hitler’s forces sweep across Europe. Grace Bennett has always dreamed of moving to the city, but the bunkers and drawn curtains that she finds on her arrival are not what she expected. And she certainly never imagined she’d wind up working at Primrose Hill, a dusty old bookshop nestled in the heart of London.

Through blackouts and air raids as the Blitz intensifies, Grace discovers the power of storytelling to unite her community in ways she never dreamed—a force that triumphs over even the darkest nights of the war.

A Novel of World War II

The Last Bookshop in London

haurora

Sofia Arcângelo 

This is the story of a British young woman that is thrown out of the house where she lives with her uncle, after the death of her mother. She moves into London and starts working in a chaotic bookstore during the WWII. Her kindness and hard work touches the hearts of everyone that surround her and when she's in need of help that same people gather and do what they can to return all the kindness and courage that shares daily.
A heart warming story of the londoners that stayed behind and survived the cruel and intense German attacks.

I always love a good historical fiction novel that takes place during the Second World War; however, this one, unfortunately, felt a little redundant. The storyline was a bit bland and the writing also left something to be desired, glossing over pivotal moments in the storyline that could have been explored to give the main character, Grace, more depth.

Laura Mei

AnnRea Fowler

The Last Bookshop in London is one of the best books I’ve read in the fiction and historical fiction genres. This is my first time reading Madeline Martin, but it certainly will not be my last! 

I have read wonderful stories about brave women in Europe during World War II, including the Nightingale and Lilac Girls and this book fits perfectly into the same category. It is an action-packed and emotional story. The book felt really well-researched in its references to actual events during World War II. 

The charming story is about a girl who moves to London and begrudgingly accepts a position at a run-down bookstore called “Primrose Hill Books.” When I studied in London in 2018, I ran across a shop of the same name on my first day. This connection drew me immediately into the story.

When World War II begins in London, Grace takes on the role of an ARP warden. She sees horrifying sights yet stays calm to accomplish her duty. In many small ways, it’s clear that Grace has a huge impact on everyone around her. She gives Mrs. Weatherford a reason to live again, she helps a set of orphaned siblings, she gives Mr. Evans’ shop new life, and she reads books in the air raid shelters to help those taking shelter escape in their minds. All of these make her a memorable character in the category of WWII fiction. 

I equate her character to that of George Bailey in It's A Wonderful Life by the influence he has in the community by dedicating his life and business to give others hope. That all culminates with the community eventually showing their appreciation for him in his time of need. When this happens to Grace, it brought me to tears, just like the last five minutes of that classic film always does. Although I like to use this word sparingly, Grace is the definition of a hero. Her sacrifice, courage, and strength bring together the community and literally save people’s lives. As Mr. Evans stated, “Out there, you save lives. In here, you save souls.”

Another thing to note, the subtle romance with George felt refreshing as so many romances today are filled with lustful words and actions. Also, the fact that he constantly gave her reading suggestions and books as presents really appealed to me as that would be my dream man. 

This book is a great commentary on the love of reading and how it is a passion discovered within oneself but is inspired by multiple people throughout life. For me, it is multiple family members, teachers, librarians, and now through elementary school students who are discovering their love of reading for the first time. 

Thank you to Hanover Square Press for the opportunity to read this galley!

Nadine 

And yet another story featuring books and WW2 - enjoyable relatively light hearted story based on surviving book stores featuring the blitzing of London.

Emily S

-2.5 stars-

It was sweet, and I liked some of the characters, but the writing was too simplistic for me and often 1 dimensional. Not my favorite, but still a good historical fiction.

The Last Bookshop in London A Novel of World War II

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