The Last Bookshop in London

A Novel of World War II

By: Madeline Martin

Narrated by: Saskia Maarleveld

Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins

Publisher's summary

Inspired by the true World War II history of the few bookshops to survive the Blitz, The Last Bookshop in London is a timeless story of wartime loss, love, and the enduring power of literature.

August 1939: London is dismal under the weight of impending war with Germany as Hitler’s forces continue to sweep across Europe. Into this uncertain maelstrom steps Grace Bennett, young and ready for a fresh start in the bustling city streets she’s always dreamed of - and miles away from her troubled past in the countryside.

With aspirations of working at a department store, Grace never imagined she’d wind up employed at Primrose Hill, an offbeat bookshop nestled in the heart of the city - after all, she’s never been much of a reader. Overwhelmed with organizing the cluttered store, she doesn’t have time to read the books she sells. But when one is gifted to her, what starts as an obligation becomes a passion that draws her into the incredible world of literature.

As the Blitz rains down bombs on the city night after night, a devastating attack leaves the libraries and shops of London’s literary center in ruins. Miraculously, Grace’s bookshop survives the firestorm. Through blackouts and air raids, Grace continues running the shop, discovering a newfound comfort in the power of words and storytelling that unites her community in ways she never imagined - a force that triumphs over even the darkest nights of war-torn London.

©2021 Madeline Martin (P)2021 Harlequin Enterprises, Limited

Wow, what a great story.

The reader was really good. The story and characters drew me in more and more as I got further into the story. This is definitely a book that gets stronger the further you go. Trying not to give anything away, but the details given in the story paint such clear picture of the time. What a great writer. As an audiobook listener part of the story, I could completely relate too. Can't wait for the next book from Madeline Martin.

History and Heroines

Endearing subjects and story, with dramatic insight into London day to day life during WWII .

A must read!

I loved this book from start to finish! The unique perspective this story offered is captivating. I never wanted to put the book down. I loved the story line and the added bits of history found in each chapter. You will find yourself smiling and crying with the characters if you choose to read this wonderful piece of literature.

Loved every minute!

I'm not of the few remaining of the generation of this story and it reminded me of a time when people were proud of our countries and treasured our freedoms enough to fight for them!

Stayed up way too late listening

I really enjoyed this book. The narrator did a wonderful job. The descriptions made me feel like I could see what was going on. I became attached to the characters and thought there was good character development. Even though I know I could put the book away and come back to listen later, I found myself staying up way too late at night to listen to just a little bit more, because I had to find out what happened next, so I COULD go to sleep!

Heartwarming Story and Narration

Although set in London during WWII, this is more of a story of a young woman's growth and the effect of that growth on all the people around her.

Excellent story

Loved this book. Well narrated. Hit all the right emotional spots. Will definitely look for another book from this author.

Loved it!

The story, the characters, the narrator were all wonderful. I cared about the people and their circumstances.

Absolutely Wonderful Story

This book will join a rare group of favorite books. I loved everything about it.

Amazing

This was such a beautiful story. I laughed and cried often. I hope they make it into a movie.