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Phyllis
, March 22, 2024
(view all comments by Phyllis)
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for a digital advance reader's copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
This book has all the good things: A book about a library. About people who love books. Saving books during the London Blitz. People who come together around this makeshift underground library and form a community despite the dangers of war. Of course I wanted to read this one! And it checked all the boxes – heartwarming, friendships, historical fiction, books and book lovers, a bit of romance, and based on actual events.
Many of the characters were endearing, engaging, and resourceful. Main plot, sub plots, and all threads tied up happily at the end. A satisfying, well-researched read that left me more knowledgeable about this time period and wartime in London. And I appreciated how the characters expressed their love of books throughout the novel. I enjoyed and agreed with so many comments of the characters expressing their thoughts about books and libraries and their importance in their lives.
I loved the way author Jennifer Ryan was able to show how the books, and the underground library, had created a community during this extremely stressful and dangerous time. Friendships and romances were formed, families were reunited, and people developed courage and strength – all from the books and the library. I highly recommend!
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