Book Review—The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

The Last Bookshop in London takes place during WWII. Author Madeline Martin was inspired to write a book about the bookshops that survived the Blitz in London. The main character in the novel, Grace Bennett, moves to London with her best friend, Viv, in 1939 before the start of the war. Viv gets a job at Harrod’s and eventually Grace begins work at Primrose Hill Books.

Grace is not a reader, so she mainly organizes the shop, until a handsome man, George, gives her his copy of The Count of Monte Cristo. This begins Grace’s love for books and also the promise of what could be when George leaves for war. Like many Londoners during the war, Grace decides to volunteer for the war effort. Reading and books become an integral part of her service.

This is a charming book full of hope during a dark time in London’s history. It is well-researched about the Blitz and its devastation, and I was able to connect with the characters. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Saskia Maarleveld, and her performance was brilliant.

I highly recommend The Last Bookshop in London.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5