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knitreadlife's review against another edition
1.0
Another book about this well-documented historical period needs much better writing and characterisation than this author is able to bring to the task. I did read to the end but thought it was a pedestrian and predictable retelling of a tale told many times before and with no new insights or information to make it worthwhile.
jessicake1's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
darth_mom's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Fire/Fire injury, and War
Moderate: Child death, Blood, and Death of parent
Minor: Car accident
haddib's review against another edition
4.0
My mom loaned me this book as both she and my dad really enjoyed it and thought I would like it as well. I don't usually read WWII historical fiction but since this one was recommended to me by my parents, I figured I'd give it a try. I am happy to report, I was not disappointed.
I love reading, libraries, books, and of course book shops, and the fact that this story took place in a book shop in London only added to its charm. With all of the chaos and sadness that surrounded people's lives during WWII, it was lovely to read a book that not only acknowledged the difficult times in which these people lived but also highlighted the humanity and kindness people can demonstrate even under the worst of circumstances. Ultimately, this book was about friendship, compassion, and doing what you can to make the world a better place.
Grace Bennett and her friend come to London in 1939 to live the glamorous life of shop girls however, soon everything changes with England's declaration of war in 1940. Grace and her friends must each find their own path to help with the war effort both domestically and abroad while also facing the very real fears of living in a city under siege. Madeline Martin has written a lovely story of courage under fire and the resiliency of the human spirit. If you like WWII historical fiction, books or book shops, or just want a good story with some fun and interesting characters, I definitely recommend picking up this book.
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I love reading, libraries, books, and of course book shops, and the fact that this story took place in a book shop in London only added to its charm. With all of the chaos and sadness that surrounded people's lives during WWII, it was lovely to read a book that not only acknowledged the difficult times in which these people lived but also highlighted the humanity and kindness people can demonstrate even under the worst of circumstances. Ultimately, this book was about friendship, compassion, and doing what you can to make the world a better place.
Grace Bennett and her friend come to London in 1939 to live the glamorous life of shop girls however, soon everything changes with England's declaration of war in 1940. Grace and her friends must each find their own path to help with the war effort both domestically and abroad while also facing the very real fears of living in a city under siege. Madeline Martin has written a lovely story of courage under fire and the resiliency of the human spirit. If you like WWII historical fiction, books or book shops, or just want a good story with some fun and interesting characters, I definitely recommend picking up this book.
Want more book content? Follow me at thebookwar.com
bmaniel97's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
lexlovescafecito's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
alexmac25's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 stars, it was a perfectly fine story, but as some other reviews mentioned it felt a bit flat. I think it felt almost too idyllic even through the tragedies
ncteixeira's review against another edition
medium-paced
3.0
“The Last Bookshop in London”, by Madeline Martin
3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (because of the concept)
This was not bad, but…
The first 20% was a bit fluffy and I was concerned that I was reading a book strictly written for young girls (I so hate the label “chick lit” and I’m surprised that it’s still in use).
By 35% the story became more engaging and intense.
WWII is one of my favourites topics, and I have read a good number, so every time I pick a new book, I do have high expectations.
The writing here was simple and clear.
The story was also simple, perhaps too simple.
It was nice to read the perspectives by civilians.
But the development of the story was not that impactful, in my opinion.
Something was missing for me. I thought the whole development was colourless and I was not touched in any way.
As another reviewer said, this is a perfect companion to a cup of tea.
I loved the references to the classics, especially “The Count of Monte Cristo” (my favourite book of 2024), “Rebecca” and “Frankenstein” (both a 5 stars read for me).
e-book (Kobo): 276 pages, 85k words
Hardcover: 325 pages (borrowed from the public library)
chantedsnicker's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
kathyobrn1982's review against another edition
4.0
A really great WWII novel--realistic regarding the blitz of London and how books can save everyone. Truly makes you think.