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The British Booksellers
Inspired by real accounts of the Forgotten Blitz bombings, The British Booksellers highlights the courage of those whose lives were forever changed by war—and the stories that bind us in the fight for what matters most.
A tenant farmer’s son had no business daring to dream of a future with an earl’s daughter, but that couldn’t keep Amos Darby from his secret friendship with Charlotte Terrington . . . until the reality of the Great War sobered youthful dreams. Now decades later, he bears the brutal scars of battles fought in the trenches and their futures that were stolen away. His return home doesn’t come with tender reunions, but with the hollow fulfillment of opening a bookshop on his own and retreating as a recluse within its walls.
When the future Earl of Harcourt chose Charlotte to be his wife, she knew she was destined for a loveless match. Though her heart had chosen another long ago, she pledges her future even as her husband goes to war. Twenty-five years later, Charlotte remains a war widow who divides her days between her late husband’s declining estate and operating a quaint Coventry bookshop—Eden Books, lovingly named after her grown daughter. And Amos is nothing more than the rival bookseller across the lane.
As war with Hitler looms, Eden is determined to preserve her father’s legacy. So when an American solicitor arrives threatening a lawsuit that could destroy everything they’ve worked so hard to preserve, mother and daughter prepare to fight back. But with devastation wrought by the Luftwaffe’s local blitz terrorizing the skies, battling bookshops—and lost loves, Amos and Charlotte—must put aside their differences and fight together to help Coventry survive.
From deep in the trenches of the Great War to the storied English countryside and the devastating Coventry Blitz of WWII, The British Booksellers explores the unbreakable bonds that unite us through love, loss, and the enduring solace that can be found between the pages of a book.
A tenant farmer’s son had no business daring to dream of a future with an earl’s daughter, but that couldn’t keep Amos Darby from his secret friendship with Charlotte Terrington . . . until the reality of the Great War sobered youthful dreams. Now decades later, he bears the brutal scars of battles fought in the trenches and their futures that were stolen away. His return home doesn’t come with tender reunions, but with the hollow fulfillment of opening a bookshop on his own and retreating as a recluse within its walls.
When the future Earl of Harcourt chose Charlotte to be his wife, she knew she was destined for a loveless match. Though her heart had chosen another long ago, she pledges her future even as her husband goes to war. Twenty-five years later, Charlotte remains a war widow who divides her days between her late husband’s declining estate and operating a quaint Coventry bookshop—Eden Books, lovingly named after her grown daughter. And Amos is nothing more than the rival bookseller across the lane.
As war with Hitler looms, Eden is determined to preserve her father’s legacy. So when an American solicitor arrives threatening a lawsuit that could destroy everything they’ve worked so hard to preserve, mother and daughter prepare to fight back. But with devastation wrought by the Luftwaffe’s local blitz terrorizing the skies, battling bookshops—and lost loves, Amos and Charlotte—must put aside their differences and fight together to help Coventry survive.
From deep in the trenches of the Great War to the storied English countryside and the devastating Coventry Blitz of WWII, The British Booksellers explores the unbreakable bonds that unite us through love, loss, and the enduring solace that can be found between the pages of a book.
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 9, 2024
About the author
Kristy Cambron
20 books2,411 followersKRISTY CAMBRON is a vintage-inspired storyteller writing from the space where beauty, art, and history intersect. She's a Christy Award-winning author of historical fiction, including her bestselling novels, THE BUTTERFLY AND THE VIOLIN and THE PARIS DRESSMAKER, as well as nonfiction titles. She also serves as Vice President and literary agent with Gardner Literary.
Her work has been named to Cosmopolitan Best Historical Fiction Novels, Publishers Weekly Religion & Spirituality TOP 10, Library Journal’s Best Books, and she received a Christy Award for her novel THE PAINTED CASTLE. Her work has been featured at Once Upon a Book Club Box, Frolic, Book Club Girl, BookBub, Country Woman magazine, and (in)Courage.
A self-proclaimed history nerd, Kristy loves to chase all things research, going behind the scenes at a Ringling Bros. Sarasota mansion, touring a former TB sanitarium, making bee friends at a working honey farm, or embarking on a back-roads jaunt across Ireland being a few. She holds a degree in art history/research writing and spent fifteen years in education and leadership development for a Fortune 100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, IBM/Kenexa, and Gallup before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling.
Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three basketball-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.
To connect with Kristy, visit: kristycambron.com
Her work has been named to Cosmopolitan Best Historical Fiction Novels, Publishers Weekly Religion & Spirituality TOP 10, Library Journal’s Best Books, and she received a Christy Award for her novel THE PAINTED CASTLE. Her work has been featured at Once Upon a Book Club Box, Frolic, Book Club Girl, BookBub, Country Woman magazine, and (in)Courage.
A self-proclaimed history nerd, Kristy loves to chase all things research, going behind the scenes at a Ringling Bros. Sarasota mansion, touring a former TB sanitarium, making bee friends at a working honey farm, or embarking on a back-roads jaunt across Ireland being a few. She holds a degree in art history/research writing and spent fifteen years in education and leadership development for a Fortune 100 corporation, partnering with such companies as the Disney Institute, IBM/Kenexa, and Gallup before stepping away to pursue her passion for storytelling.
Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three basketball-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a peppermint mocha latte and a good read.
To connect with Kristy, visit: kristycambron.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
April 12, 2024
Coventry, England, 1914 & 1940
A tenant’s farmer's son has no business of daring to dream of a future that includes an earl’s daughter, but it doesn’t stop him from having a secret friendship with Charlotte Terrington.
The Coventry County Blitz serves as the background for The British Booksellers. This is a dual-time story and while I am not always a fan of them, having a dual-time frame I felt really it served the plotline very well. I liked how the Great War and the experience that Amos and Will Holt went through prefaced the experience that is shown in WWll. There is usually a timeframe that I like better than the other, but as the layers are revealed, I couldn’t but want both to find out what would happen in 1914, so that I could understand what was happening between Amos and Charlotte in 1940. I usually connect more with the female protagonists, but I liked Amos more in the beginning.
The British Booksellers is filled with books, romance, mystery, and intrigue, and I was pulled back to read so that I could find out the secrets that spill onto the next war that devastated so many in Europe. The ending is so satisfying but I encourage you to read the beginning, and the middle too! Kristy Cambron has really outdone herself in The British Booksellers.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are mine and honest.
A tenant’s farmer's son has no business of daring to dream of a future that includes an earl’s daughter, but it doesn’t stop him from having a secret friendship with Charlotte Terrington.
The Coventry County Blitz serves as the background for The British Booksellers. This is a dual-time story and while I am not always a fan of them, having a dual-time frame I felt really it served the plotline very well. I liked how the Great War and the experience that Amos and Will Holt went through prefaced the experience that is shown in WWll. There is usually a timeframe that I like better than the other, but as the layers are revealed, I couldn’t but want both to find out what would happen in 1914, so that I could understand what was happening between Amos and Charlotte in 1940. I usually connect more with the female protagonists, but I liked Amos more in the beginning.
The British Booksellers is filled with books, romance, mystery, and intrigue, and I was pulled back to read so that I could find out the secrets that spill onto the next war that devastated so many in Europe. The ending is so satisfying but I encourage you to read the beginning, and the middle too! Kristy Cambron has really outdone herself in The British Booksellers.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are mine and honest.
April 7, 2024
Battling booksellers? Historical fiction? Spanning both world wars? Second chance romance? Christian read? Enemies-to-lovers trope? Trusted author?
I’m in.
I had to work for it, but I really enjoyed Amos Darby and Lady Charlotte Holt’s love story. Their past was rooted in their childhood and they had to battle forces that sought to keep them apart. Cambron showed that nobody wins in war and indeed some of her characters were scarred literally as well as figuratively. It’s a seemingly uphill battle for these two to reclaim what they once had, but Cambron’s redemption story shows us the path to courage, forgiveness, and faith.
The multi-generation timeline allows readers to see the ripple effects of wartime trauma. Charlotte’s daughter, Eden, continued to struggle, like her mother, for what was rightfully ‘hers.’ How amazing that the wartime experience took so much from Amos and Charlotte, yet left them their love of books.
I appreciated the different lens with which to view wartime Britain - the town of Coventry and the devastating bombing were refreshingly different from the focus on the London Blitz most authors choose. I went down a rabbit hole Googling the connection between the German ‘Blitzkrieg’ and the term ‘Coventration.’ As much WWII historical fiction as I read, I’d never come across mention of the most devastating bombing raid of the Second World War on the manufacturing city in the heart of England. The effects on the social order were shocking.
I’ll be honest and admit that I struggled with the multiple POVs, the timeline hops, and the large cast of characters. Cambron made me work to appreciate her story and I’m the better for it.
I was gifted this copy by Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I’m in.
I had to work for it, but I really enjoyed Amos Darby and Lady Charlotte Holt’s love story. Their past was rooted in their childhood and they had to battle forces that sought to keep them apart. Cambron showed that nobody wins in war and indeed some of her characters were scarred literally as well as figuratively. It’s a seemingly uphill battle for these two to reclaim what they once had, but Cambron’s redemption story shows us the path to courage, forgiveness, and faith.
The multi-generation timeline allows readers to see the ripple effects of wartime trauma. Charlotte’s daughter, Eden, continued to struggle, like her mother, for what was rightfully ‘hers.’ How amazing that the wartime experience took so much from Amos and Charlotte, yet left them their love of books.
I appreciated the different lens with which to view wartime Britain - the town of Coventry and the devastating bombing were refreshingly different from the focus on the London Blitz most authors choose. I went down a rabbit hole Googling the connection between the German ‘Blitzkrieg’ and the term ‘Coventration.’ As much WWII historical fiction as I read, I’d never come across mention of the most devastating bombing raid of the Second World War on the manufacturing city in the heart of England. The effects on the social order were shocking.
I’ll be honest and admit that I struggled with the multiple POVs, the timeline hops, and the large cast of characters. Cambron made me work to appreciate her story and I’m the better for it.
I was gifted this copy by Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 7, 2024
Amos Darby is a tenant farmer’s son, he will do anything for his best friend Charlie and her real name is Lady Charlotte Terrington and she’s the daughter of an earl. The reality of The Great War squashes their youthful hopes and they must fulfill their duties, and when Amos returns from the trenches, he opens a bookshop in Coventry, called Waverly Novels. Charlotte marries William the future Earl of Harcourt, she doesn’t love her husband and has given her heart to another and he doesn’t feel the same way.
Twenty-five years later, Charlotte’s a widow and she divides her time between managing her estate Holt Manor, and running her a Coventry bookshop called Eden and she named it after her daughter. The once friends are now rivals booksellers, their shops are opposite each other and on Bayley Lane. With another war looming Eden and Charlotte begin preparations, installing Anderson shelters, and plan on planting as many vegetables as possible and they put in a request for Land Girls to help. When an American solicitor Jacob Cole arrives, Charlotte and Eden are puzzled by what he wants and he’s keeping his cards close to his chest.
The Luftwaffe’s start terrorizing the skies over London, especially Coventry and everyone has to do their bit, rivalries are put aside, Charlotte and Amos are now on the same page, they do what they can for their customers, friends, and Amos starts a trend by making cups of tea for people who have lost their homes and it snowballs.
I received a copy of The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron from Thomas Nelson and Edelweiss in exchange for an unbiased review. Wow, what an amazing book, Ms. Cambron has done an brilliant job with her research, I discovered so much about the little known Coventry Blitz and Robin Nests. Through the eyes of the characters I experienced what it was like at the time, based on real events and I went on a educational and emotional roller coaster.
The narrative emphasises the differences in classes before The Great War, how this changed in England afterwards and how the men who survived the terrible war, many struggled silently from what we now call PTSD, their injuries and what they did to cope. A story about secrets, friendship, women’s roles in both wars, working together and helping others in need, loss, forgiveness, the start of modern warfare, and an escape from reality can be found between the pages of a book and how reading and bookshops unite people.
I highly recommend The British Booksellers, why don’t we learn from history and mistakes of the past and five big stars from me.
Twenty-five years later, Charlotte’s a widow and she divides her time between managing her estate Holt Manor, and running her a Coventry bookshop called Eden and she named it after her daughter. The once friends are now rivals booksellers, their shops are opposite each other and on Bayley Lane. With another war looming Eden and Charlotte begin preparations, installing Anderson shelters, and plan on planting as many vegetables as possible and they put in a request for Land Girls to help. When an American solicitor Jacob Cole arrives, Charlotte and Eden are puzzled by what he wants and he’s keeping his cards close to his chest.
The Luftwaffe’s start terrorizing the skies over London, especially Coventry and everyone has to do their bit, rivalries are put aside, Charlotte and Amos are now on the same page, they do what they can for their customers, friends, and Amos starts a trend by making cups of tea for people who have lost their homes and it snowballs.
I received a copy of The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron from Thomas Nelson and Edelweiss in exchange for an unbiased review. Wow, what an amazing book, Ms. Cambron has done an brilliant job with her research, I discovered so much about the little known Coventry Blitz and Robin Nests. Through the eyes of the characters I experienced what it was like at the time, based on real events and I went on a educational and emotional roller coaster.
The narrative emphasises the differences in classes before The Great War, how this changed in England afterwards and how the men who survived the terrible war, many struggled silently from what we now call PTSD, their injuries and what they did to cope. A story about secrets, friendship, women’s roles in both wars, working together and helping others in need, loss, forgiveness, the start of modern warfare, and an escape from reality can be found between the pages of a book and how reading and bookshops unite people.
I highly recommend The British Booksellers, why don’t we learn from history and mistakes of the past and five big stars from me.
April 14, 2024
Amos Darby, a tenant farmer’s son, and Charlotte Terrington, an earl’s daughter, strike up an unlikely friendship as children, one that they must keep secret. Both of them share a passion for books and dream of opening a bookstore together. However, due to the circumstances of their lives, they find themselves as owners of rivaling bookshops across the street from one another.
Charlotte ends up betrothed to the future Earl of Harcourt, facing a marriage devoid of true love, while Amos enlists to serve in the Great War. As the narrative progresses, we discover Charlotte’s journey a war widow, tasked with raising her daughter, Eden, single-handedly while dividing her time between her bookshop and trying to help her daughter save her late husband’s declining estate. Amos returns from WWI bearing both physical and emotional wounds, withdrawing into his quaint bookshop and becoming somewhat of a recluse. Gradually, the reasons behind Amos and Charlotte’s rivalry come to light.
With each historical fiction book I read, I learn a little more about a different part of history. The British Booksellers was inspired by real accounts of the Forgotten Blitz bombings. It spans 1908 - 1948 and both World Wars with the primary timelines occurring in 1915 and 1940. It tells the story of the Coventry Blitz of WWII, a series of bombing raids which devastated the English countryside, irrevocably changing the lives of the civilians that lived in Coventry. The author did a great job of showing the long-lasting effects of war both on those that served and the civilians. While I loved the story itself and the characters, what shined throughout was the way the people of Coventry united to help each other through this turbulent period of time. Be sure to read the author's note which provides even more interesting information.
I enjoyed the audiobook, skillfully narrated by Barrie Kreinik. Her ability to portray various genders was impressive, making it easy to distinguish between the voices of different characters. 4 stars 💫
My thanks to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio via NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Charlotte ends up betrothed to the future Earl of Harcourt, facing a marriage devoid of true love, while Amos enlists to serve in the Great War. As the narrative progresses, we discover Charlotte’s journey a war widow, tasked with raising her daughter, Eden, single-handedly while dividing her time between her bookshop and trying to help her daughter save her late husband’s declining estate. Amos returns from WWI bearing both physical and emotional wounds, withdrawing into his quaint bookshop and becoming somewhat of a recluse. Gradually, the reasons behind Amos and Charlotte’s rivalry come to light.
With each historical fiction book I read, I learn a little more about a different part of history. The British Booksellers was inspired by real accounts of the Forgotten Blitz bombings. It spans 1908 - 1948 and both World Wars with the primary timelines occurring in 1915 and 1940. It tells the story of the Coventry Blitz of WWII, a series of bombing raids which devastated the English countryside, irrevocably changing the lives of the civilians that lived in Coventry. The author did a great job of showing the long-lasting effects of war both on those that served and the civilians. While I loved the story itself and the characters, what shined throughout was the way the people of Coventry united to help each other through this turbulent period of time. Be sure to read the author's note which provides even more interesting information.
I enjoyed the audiobook, skillfully narrated by Barrie Kreinik. Her ability to portray various genders was impressive, making it easy to distinguish between the voices of different characters. 4 stars 💫
My thanks to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio via NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 26, 2024
The British Booksellers was the fifth book I had the pleasure of reading by author, Kristy Cambron. Since I had enjoyed the other books I had previously read by Kristy Cambron I was excited to read this one. The British Booksellers was both moving and heartfelt. The British Booksellers was based on real events. Kristy Cambron masterfully portrayed the years that led up to World War I, the hardships and difficult decisions the soldiers who fought so bravely and courageously during that war had to make, the physical and emotional scars that remained with the soldiers that survived World War I and the impact that World War II had on the majority of British civilians. Kristy Cambron took the liberty of writing The British Booksellers in a dual timeline that alternated between 1915 and 1940 but the book actually spanned the years from 1908 through 1948. I listened to the captivating audiobook of The British Booksellers that was narrated by Barrie Kreinik, one of my favorite narrators. Barrie Kreinik was able to skillfully distinguish between the male and female characters. Her performance was everything I expected from her and more.
The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron explored the lives of Lady Charlotte Terrington, who grew up and led a very privileged life as the daughter of an Earl and Amos Darby, the son of a tenant farmer, whose life limited his aspirations. Although, Charlie, (a nickname Amos bestowed upon Lady Charlotte) and Amos were born into two completely different worlds, they formed a friendship that was based on mutual respect and trust. Everything about their friendship was easy and appreciated but because of their class distinctions they were forced to keep it hidden. Lady Charlotte and Amos shared a love for treasured books and often shared the books they had read with each other. As children, they made a pact to open and run a bookstore together one day. Their friendship eventually evolved into something much more than either had ever imagined or saw coming.
Twenty five years later, both Charlotte and Amos realized their dreams of owning a bookstore but separately, not together. So much had occurred in each of their lives that had come between them and dissolved their friendship and closeness. Charlotte owned and ran her bookstore, Eden Books, named after her daughter, and Amos had his bookstore, Waverly Novels, that just happened to be directly across the street from Eden Books. Amos had enlisted and fought in World War I and returned a changed man. His outward scars were just a reminder of the emotions and pain he carried in his heart, dreams and daily thoughts. Charlotte and Amos had become competitors and avoided contact with each other at all costs now.
When Britain declared war against Germany in World War II, Charlotte and Amos were forced to leave their ill feelings for each other behind. Charlotte was forced to seek Amos’s help in helping restore her estate. The two bookstore owners also became involved in warning, helping and rescuing their neighbors from the relentless air attacks of the German planes that unmercifully attacked their homes and businesses. Would Charlotte and Amos be able to find their way back to each other through all the destruction and devastation around them? Would they be granted a second chance of being able to rekindle the romance they had once shared? How would Charlotte’s daughter, Eden, feel about Amos and Charlotte and the discovery of the past that they shared?
I learned so much about the Coventry Blitz or the Forgotten Blitz as many refer to it and the Robin Nests by listening to The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron. It was commendable how Kristy Cambron portrayed the ordinary citizens that resided in Coventry and how they banned together to help each other through the turbulent series of bombings that obliterated so many of their homes and businesses and then afterwards in the rebuilding. Her research for the events that occurred during this period was impeccable. I have read several books that explored the roles of the Land Girls but was happy to learn the stories of the ones who came to help Charlotte and Eden with their land. The characters in The British Booksellers were all skillfully portrayed and so believable. Charlotte and Amos were my favorite characters but I enjoyed learning about some of the secondary characters as well. Also masterfully executed in The British Booksellers were the themes that included plenty of secrets, disappointments, friendships, the effects of war both physically and mentally, the acts of sacrifice, class distinctions and their role in life choices, mother/daughter relationships and second chances. Kristy Cambron included an author’s note after the conclusion of The British Booksellers that should not be missed. It was very informative and interesting. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron and highly recommend it if you enjoy historical fiction books.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio for allowing me to listen to The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron explored the lives of Lady Charlotte Terrington, who grew up and led a very privileged life as the daughter of an Earl and Amos Darby, the son of a tenant farmer, whose life limited his aspirations. Although, Charlie, (a nickname Amos bestowed upon Lady Charlotte) and Amos were born into two completely different worlds, they formed a friendship that was based on mutual respect and trust. Everything about their friendship was easy and appreciated but because of their class distinctions they were forced to keep it hidden. Lady Charlotte and Amos shared a love for treasured books and often shared the books they had read with each other. As children, they made a pact to open and run a bookstore together one day. Their friendship eventually evolved into something much more than either had ever imagined or saw coming.
Twenty five years later, both Charlotte and Amos realized their dreams of owning a bookstore but separately, not together. So much had occurred in each of their lives that had come between them and dissolved their friendship and closeness. Charlotte owned and ran her bookstore, Eden Books, named after her daughter, and Amos had his bookstore, Waverly Novels, that just happened to be directly across the street from Eden Books. Amos had enlisted and fought in World War I and returned a changed man. His outward scars were just a reminder of the emotions and pain he carried in his heart, dreams and daily thoughts. Charlotte and Amos had become competitors and avoided contact with each other at all costs now.
When Britain declared war against Germany in World War II, Charlotte and Amos were forced to leave their ill feelings for each other behind. Charlotte was forced to seek Amos’s help in helping restore her estate. The two bookstore owners also became involved in warning, helping and rescuing their neighbors from the relentless air attacks of the German planes that unmercifully attacked their homes and businesses. Would Charlotte and Amos be able to find their way back to each other through all the destruction and devastation around them? Would they be granted a second chance of being able to rekindle the romance they had once shared? How would Charlotte’s daughter, Eden, feel about Amos and Charlotte and the discovery of the past that they shared?
I learned so much about the Coventry Blitz or the Forgotten Blitz as many refer to it and the Robin Nests by listening to The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron. It was commendable how Kristy Cambron portrayed the ordinary citizens that resided in Coventry and how they banned together to help each other through the turbulent series of bombings that obliterated so many of their homes and businesses and then afterwards in the rebuilding. Her research for the events that occurred during this period was impeccable. I have read several books that explored the roles of the Land Girls but was happy to learn the stories of the ones who came to help Charlotte and Eden with their land. The characters in The British Booksellers were all skillfully portrayed and so believable. Charlotte and Amos were my favorite characters but I enjoyed learning about some of the secondary characters as well. Also masterfully executed in The British Booksellers were the themes that included plenty of secrets, disappointments, friendships, the effects of war both physically and mentally, the acts of sacrifice, class distinctions and their role in life choices, mother/daughter relationships and second chances. Kristy Cambron included an author’s note after the conclusion of The British Booksellers that should not be missed. It was very informative and interesting. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron and highly recommend it if you enjoy historical fiction books.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio for allowing me to listen to The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2024
I adore Kristy Cambron's books and The British Booksellers consumed a full day while I read through meals and into the wee smalls. No one does dual timeline stories better, and here, we find ourselves gripped by the tale of Charlotte, an Earl's daughter, and Amos, a farmer's son, during WWI and WWII, including the deadly Coventry bombings during the blitz. A compelling must read as only Cambron can write!
December 3, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
The British Booksellers is a tribute to both the horrors and beauty of war. It takes readers back in time to a place that's torn apart by bombs and death but united by love and hope.
This book was different than I was expecting from Cambron, especially after reading The Paris Dressmaker and The Italian Ballerina. The WW1 timeline felt more like reading a regency novel, while the WW2 timeline felt more in character with her previous novels. It threw me off for a bit as I adjusted to the WW1 timeline, but I grew to love the characters, their stories, and journeys.
As always, Cambron's prose is lovely. Her characters know how to grab onto your heart. Her storyline is compelling and full of relatable struggles and important truths.
While this novel wasn't my favorite of hers, it was still such a good read, and I would highly recommend it to any historical fiction lovers out there. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The British Booksellers. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
The British Booksellers is a tribute to both the horrors and beauty of war. It takes readers back in time to a place that's torn apart by bombs and death but united by love and hope.
This book was different than I was expecting from Cambron, especially after reading The Paris Dressmaker and The Italian Ballerina. The WW1 timeline felt more like reading a regency novel, while the WW2 timeline felt more in character with her previous novels. It threw me off for a bit as I adjusted to the WW1 timeline, but I grew to love the characters, their stories, and journeys.
As always, Cambron's prose is lovely. Her characters know how to grab onto your heart. Her storyline is compelling and full of relatable struggles and important truths.
While this novel wasn't my favorite of hers, it was still such a good read, and I would highly recommend it to any historical fiction lovers out there. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The British Booksellers. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
April 2, 2024
I have loved everything written by Kristy Cambron that I’ve read. This story was POWERFUL, MOVING, & ENGAGING. The story fluidly moves between pre WWI, WWI and WWII. Steeped in history. I learned about the Land Girls in England and the forgotten blitz. Quite detailed and intense descriptions. Loved all the characters, they were well developed. Easy to picture the story unfolding in my mind. There is an old love that is rekindled. A new love that is sweet and pure. Absolutely a clean and wholesome read. Outstanding narration. I was blessed with a free ARC, and I’m voluntarily leaving my review. Highly recommend.
April 18, 2024
This is my favorite Kristy Cambron book so far!
This story follows multiple characters through multiple periods in time. At first this seems like it would be confusing but Kristy deftly navigates the plot so that everything comes smoothly together and it was quite impressive. From the Great war to the bombling blitz of conventry in WW2, I was enraptured with this entire story and loved the characters as well.
This book shouldn't be "cozy" because of the time period it is in, but in a way it is. I love a book with characters who love books and how stories always bring us together in one way or another. This book has a lot of heart and pluck to it. I loved the tenacity and the enduring love shown by each character for one another...even in the most unlikely of times. I loved watching each character unravel the secrets of the past in order to let it go and step into a better future.
We have:
A tenant farmers son who yearns for the lost love of his life
An earls daughter trying to live up to her familial expectations
A daughter who holds dear the legacy given to her.
This is a story about a community and the people who live here, but its also a love story..and we get double the romance in this one which only made it more sweet and endearing to me.
This would make a great book club pick for discussion or even a great choice to settle in with a warm drink on a rainy day. I just loved it. I could see this being made into a BBC series as well...it’s got that type of charming vibe.
This story follows multiple characters through multiple periods in time. At first this seems like it would be confusing but Kristy deftly navigates the plot so that everything comes smoothly together and it was quite impressive. From the Great war to the bombling blitz of conventry in WW2, I was enraptured with this entire story and loved the characters as well.
This book shouldn't be "cozy" because of the time period it is in, but in a way it is. I love a book with characters who love books and how stories always bring us together in one way or another. This book has a lot of heart and pluck to it. I loved the tenacity and the enduring love shown by each character for one another...even in the most unlikely of times. I loved watching each character unravel the secrets of the past in order to let it go and step into a better future.
We have:
A tenant farmers son who yearns for the lost love of his life
An earls daughter trying to live up to her familial expectations
A daughter who holds dear the legacy given to her.
This is a story about a community and the people who live here, but its also a love story..and we get double the romance in this one which only made it more sweet and endearing to me.
This would make a great book club pick for discussion or even a great choice to settle in with a warm drink on a rainy day. I just loved it. I could see this being made into a BBC series as well...it’s got that type of charming vibe.
March 15, 2024
Looooooooooved! The more Kristy Cambron writes, the harder time I have picking a favorite of her books, but this one is definitely up there in the top tier. I loved this story of loss and love and hope. Fantastic setting, interesting history, as always, and characters that tuck themselves into your heart with ease. Absolutely loved this. I'm a Kristy Cambron fan for life!
May 9, 2024
4.75 stars rating from me!!
" Whether they were low - or high - born, titled or not, war had a way of diminishing the nonsense of it all. "
" War does not change everything; it cannot change secrets of the past." Eden said this to her Mother, Charlotte. I really like Charlottes ' reply: " No. But it can change us. For our future. For who we might become."
I really did enjoy this book!! I wanted to give it a full 5 star rating, but I couldn't. I really struggled with how to rate it because the first 65% of the book just didn't " Wow" me. After the 65% mark, the story finally came to life!! I was gripped by it and the last 7 chapters had my heart in my throat and tears stung my eyes!! It was so exciting and I couldn't read or listen to the audiobook fast enough to find out how it ended!
What I loved about it:
💛 It's written by a Christian author and there's no horrible language or offensive scenes.
💛 The characters were very real and I liked them and cared about what happened to them. With one exception, Will. I didn't like him, yes he was the Earl of Harcourt destined to marry Charlotte, but he was just a snob. Towards the end, something happens and I am saying, " please don't make me like you, Will!" What happened, well my lips are sealed 🤫!
💛 I loved Amos Darby from the beginning!! I could relate to him. He's a childhood sweetheart of Charlottes' and a farmer. He really has a heart of gold in both timelines of 1914 and 1940. During WW2, Amos is in the trenches and in charge of the horses. During the Christmas cease fire, December 25, 1914, he meets a German sniper named Frank. Frank gives Amos a beautiful, priceless pocket watch, saying " A gift. For your kindness." When you read this book, pay attention to the pocket watch, it holds a link between 1914 and 1940.
💛 It took awhile for me to like Charlotte because I can't relate to an heiress. Eventually, I really liked her and her courage, love and devotion to always do the right thing, even if her parents disagreed! She, like her daughter, Eden have a lot of spunk!
💛 I really liked Eden from the beginning! She is intelligent, beautiful, and sassy! She and her friends join the WLA, Woman's Land Army. Even though Eden is a countess, I like how she isn't afraid to be a normal citizen doing her part for the war effort.
💛 I love that it's based on true events. I never heard of the Forgotten Blitz bombings described in the book. I've read a lot of WW1 and WW2 books, and I am glad to add this to my knowledge. "The night of November 14 - 15, 1940, in the horrific events of the Germans' Operation Moonlight Sonata, which would become known as the Coventry Blitz."
What I didn't like:
💛 I really love duel timelines but this one jumped around. In the same chapter, she put in both timelines without any notice. Generally, duel timelines are divided by chapters.
💛 The narrator of the audiobook is fantastic!! She really adds life to the story, however, if you only listen to the audiobook, you'll miss the timelines when they come. I read the physical book and listened to the audiobook.
💛 The ending, though exciting was predictable.
I'll end with this last quote from the Author's Notes:
" In the face of the tremendous loss of life, the resolve of a people determine not to bend - and certainly never to break - and the resilience of a generation to rise up with remarkable courage, fath, and fortitude.... this is the legacy of the Coventry Blitz that we research and write about today. May history teach us to steward these lessons well."
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨💛
" Whether they were low - or high - born, titled or not, war had a way of diminishing the nonsense of it all. "
" War does not change everything; it cannot change secrets of the past." Eden said this to her Mother, Charlotte. I really like Charlottes ' reply: " No. But it can change us. For our future. For who we might become."
I really did enjoy this book!! I wanted to give it a full 5 star rating, but I couldn't. I really struggled with how to rate it because the first 65% of the book just didn't " Wow" me. After the 65% mark, the story finally came to life!! I was gripped by it and the last 7 chapters had my heart in my throat and tears stung my eyes!! It was so exciting and I couldn't read or listen to the audiobook fast enough to find out how it ended!
What I loved about it:
💛 It's written by a Christian author and there's no horrible language or offensive scenes.
💛 The characters were very real and I liked them and cared about what happened to them. With one exception, Will. I didn't like him, yes he was the Earl of Harcourt destined to marry Charlotte, but he was just a snob. Towards the end, something happens and I am saying, " please don't make me like you, Will!" What happened, well my lips are sealed 🤫!
💛 I loved Amos Darby from the beginning!! I could relate to him. He's a childhood sweetheart of Charlottes' and a farmer. He really has a heart of gold in both timelines of 1914 and 1940. During WW2, Amos is in the trenches and in charge of the horses. During the Christmas cease fire, December 25, 1914, he meets a German sniper named Frank. Frank gives Amos a beautiful, priceless pocket watch, saying " A gift. For your kindness." When you read this book, pay attention to the pocket watch, it holds a link between 1914 and 1940.
💛 It took awhile for me to like Charlotte because I can't relate to an heiress. Eventually, I really liked her and her courage, love and devotion to always do the right thing, even if her parents disagreed! She, like her daughter, Eden have a lot of spunk!
💛 I really liked Eden from the beginning! She is intelligent, beautiful, and sassy! She and her friends join the WLA, Woman's Land Army. Even though Eden is a countess, I like how she isn't afraid to be a normal citizen doing her part for the war effort.
💛 I love that it's based on true events. I never heard of the Forgotten Blitz bombings described in the book. I've read a lot of WW1 and WW2 books, and I am glad to add this to my knowledge. "The night of November 14 - 15, 1940, in the horrific events of the Germans' Operation Moonlight Sonata, which would become known as the Coventry Blitz."
What I didn't like:
💛 I really love duel timelines but this one jumped around. In the same chapter, she put in both timelines without any notice. Generally, duel timelines are divided by chapters.
💛 The narrator of the audiobook is fantastic!! She really adds life to the story, however, if you only listen to the audiobook, you'll miss the timelines when they come. I read the physical book and listened to the audiobook.
💛 The ending, though exciting was predictable.
I'll end with this last quote from the Author's Notes:
" In the face of the tremendous loss of life, the resolve of a people determine not to bend - and certainly never to break - and the resilience of a generation to rise up with remarkable courage, fath, and fortitude.... this is the legacy of the Coventry Blitz that we research and write about today. May history teach us to steward these lessons well."
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨💛
April 4, 2024
Stunning…but my heart hurts. So, the kind of emotional read that twists your innards into pretzels and pummels your heart into a misshapen lump…to start off anyway.
I knew going in (from the synopsis) that there would be a doomed love scenario, I just wasn’t prepared for how bereaved I would be. Kudos to Cambron for creating such engaging characters. Easy to love and root for even though you know it’s a train wreck waiting to happen. And then it’s twenty-five years later.
And my heart still hurt.
The dual timeline is written so artfully and the way the author feeds us bits of pertinent information gradually is delightfully frustrating. I wanted to know everything NOW but at the same time enjoyed the anticipation. So, well plotted and beautifully written.
And my heart stopped hurting…though it still aches a little.
Two wars. Two love stories. The miracle of finding faith and basking in hope in the midst of the horror of war. Breathtakingly beautiful prose. Deeply emotional. So easy to live and breathe in every detail right along with the characters. A story to savour and hold on to even after you reach the end.
I really enjoyed the audio edition narrated by Barrie Kreinik. Well performed and easy to listen to. Her performance enhanced my appreciation of these characters and their story.
My thanks to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio edition of this book.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/04/04/t...
I knew going in (from the synopsis) that there would be a doomed love scenario, I just wasn’t prepared for how bereaved I would be. Kudos to Cambron for creating such engaging characters. Easy to love and root for even though you know it’s a train wreck waiting to happen. And then it’s twenty-five years later.
And my heart still hurt.
The dual timeline is written so artfully and the way the author feeds us bits of pertinent information gradually is delightfully frustrating. I wanted to know everything NOW but at the same time enjoyed the anticipation. So, well plotted and beautifully written.
And my heart stopped hurting…though it still aches a little.
Two wars. Two love stories. The miracle of finding faith and basking in hope in the midst of the horror of war. Breathtakingly beautiful prose. Deeply emotional. So easy to live and breathe in every detail right along with the characters. A story to savour and hold on to even after you reach the end.
I really enjoyed the audio edition narrated by Barrie Kreinik. Well performed and easy to listen to. Her performance enhanced my appreciation of these characters and their story.
My thanks to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio edition of this book.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/04/04/t...
February 11, 2024
Thank you #NetGalley and #ThomasNelson for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
"The British Booksellers" by Kristy Cambron depicts the harrowing Coventry Blitz in 1940. It is one aspect during WW2 that I haven't yet come across that made reading this book more intriguing.
Amos Darby and Charlotte Terrington's friendship stood the test of two Great Wars told in dual perspective narrative structure, alternating between timelines. What they felt for each other was beyond friendship, but nothing fruitful could come from a relationship between an earl's daughter and a farmer's son. When Charlotte was to wed the future Earl of Harcourt, she knew she had one chance to choose a life with the person she loved over duty. But destiny had its plans - one that didn't end up nicely for both of them. But in 1940, when Coventry suffered a devastating bombing raid, Amos and Charlotte were compelled to set aside their differences and establish a truce despite their rivalry as booksellers. Their decision arises from a shared recognition of the urgent need to protect the Coventry civilians from incendiary bombings.
With a writing style reminiscent of Jane Austen's prose, "The British Booksellers" brought me to a bygone era in which the consequences of war brought forth a poignant portrayal of hope and resilience. It underscores how individual choices create the difference between life and death, hope and despair, loss and redemption.
Authors who diligently conduct thorough research for their novels deserve more recognition. There is a sense of excitement whenever I cross-reference major events inspired in the book that align with actual historical occurrences. I love how the genre humanizes history, in particular how this book sheds light on aspects of the two World Wars that are not as widely portrayed in commercial media as the D-Day Invasion and the Holocaust.
Aside from exploring the Coventry Blitz, it also gave importance to The Women's Land Army's (WLA) role in ensuring food production continued during a crisis and how women, despite their status in society, have proven to be strong, reliable, and independent. Another aspect explored is how the war had acted as a catalyst for patriotism but could also exert pressure on conscripted men as part of societal duties amid fears and hesitancy.
However, at its core, this narrative, inspired by actual events, primarily tells a story about the love between two people against the odds of social hierarchy. Unlike romance novels, which typically conclude with the main characters achieving a happy ending, historical and literary fiction genres often conclude on a tragic note, much to the readers' dismay. With that in mind, I won't spoil how this book ends in terms of its romance arc.
With a well-crafted plot and characters, "The British Booksellers" captured the collective sentiments of those caught in the crossfires of war. It came with the lure of a touching tale that evoked reader resonance. Despite its shortcomings, such as a languid pace, the absence of dialogue tags occasionally confusing speakers, and underutilized character arcs, these flaws did not detract from the narrative's inherent beauty. It was a satisfying read, after all.
"The British Booksellers" by Kristy Cambron depicts the harrowing Coventry Blitz in 1940. It is one aspect during WW2 that I haven't yet come across that made reading this book more intriguing.
Amos Darby and Charlotte Terrington's friendship stood the test of two Great Wars told in dual perspective narrative structure, alternating between timelines. What they felt for each other was beyond friendship, but nothing fruitful could come from a relationship between an earl's daughter and a farmer's son. When Charlotte was to wed the future Earl of Harcourt, she knew she had one chance to choose a life with the person she loved over duty. But destiny had its plans - one that didn't end up nicely for both of them. But in 1940, when Coventry suffered a devastating bombing raid, Amos and Charlotte were compelled to set aside their differences and establish a truce despite their rivalry as booksellers. Their decision arises from a shared recognition of the urgent need to protect the Coventry civilians from incendiary bombings.
With a writing style reminiscent of Jane Austen's prose, "The British Booksellers" brought me to a bygone era in which the consequences of war brought forth a poignant portrayal of hope and resilience. It underscores how individual choices create the difference between life and death, hope and despair, loss and redemption.
Authors who diligently conduct thorough research for their novels deserve more recognition. There is a sense of excitement whenever I cross-reference major events inspired in the book that align with actual historical occurrences. I love how the genre humanizes history, in particular how this book sheds light on aspects of the two World Wars that are not as widely portrayed in commercial media as the D-Day Invasion and the Holocaust.
Aside from exploring the Coventry Blitz, it also gave importance to The Women's Land Army's (WLA) role in ensuring food production continued during a crisis and how women, despite their status in society, have proven to be strong, reliable, and independent. Another aspect explored is how the war had acted as a catalyst for patriotism but could also exert pressure on conscripted men as part of societal duties amid fears and hesitancy.
However, at its core, this narrative, inspired by actual events, primarily tells a story about the love between two people against the odds of social hierarchy. Unlike romance novels, which typically conclude with the main characters achieving a happy ending, historical and literary fiction genres often conclude on a tragic note, much to the readers' dismay. With that in mind, I won't spoil how this book ends in terms of its romance arc.
With a well-crafted plot and characters, "The British Booksellers" captured the collective sentiments of those caught in the crossfires of war. It came with the lure of a touching tale that evoked reader resonance. Despite its shortcomings, such as a languid pace, the absence of dialogue tags occasionally confusing speakers, and underutilized character arcs, these flaws did not detract from the narrative's inherent beauty. It was a satisfying read, after all.
April 20, 2024
1914 and 1940 England
Beautifully written time slip novel with both threads set at the beginning of world wars. The cover is lovely and perfect for the story it holds. And a novel with a nod to booksellers...happy sigh.
Amos and Charlotte are the main characters in both threads. In 1914, they are young and in love. Their class differences make their match unlikely, but love isn't boxed in by such constraints. Until it is.
In 1940, Amos and Charlotte are competing booksellers that don't speak to each other. As war once again ravages England, will they get their second chance at love?
Stellar job by narrator Barrie Kreinik. My only complaint is that "1914" sounds so similar to "1940" causing this reader to be initially unclear which it took a time period was starting.
Another winner by the talented Kristy Cambron.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary audiocopy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Beautifully written time slip novel with both threads set at the beginning of world wars. The cover is lovely and perfect for the story it holds. And a novel with a nod to booksellers...happy sigh.
Amos and Charlotte are the main characters in both threads. In 1914, they are young and in love. Their class differences make their match unlikely, but love isn't boxed in by such constraints. Until it is.
In 1940, Amos and Charlotte are competing booksellers that don't speak to each other. As war once again ravages England, will they get their second chance at love?
Stellar job by narrator Barrie Kreinik. My only complaint is that "1914" sounds so similar to "1940" causing this reader to be initially unclear which it took a time period was starting.
Another winner by the talented Kristy Cambron.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary audiocopy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
November 20, 2023
The British Booksellers is the newest release for 2024 by Kristy Cambron. This release takes place in dual timelines--both World Wars--1915-1918 and 1940-1948. The two primary characters in both timelines are Charlotte and Amos. The 1940s timeline adds in two secondary characters Jacob and Eden--Eden is Charlotte's daughter.
The overall plot tying it all together is the relationship of Amos and Charlotte--friends since childhood who drifted apart right around the start of the war in 1915 due to...things. We see them again as middle aged in the secondary timeline of WW2. Through flashbacks and narrative, we are taken on a journey to learn what happened to each of them to bring them to where they are now--competing booksellers near Coventry, England. Apparently at odds with each other in a private "war" of sorts.
Throw in the arrival of the young American Jacob Cole--who blows the past open with his announcement that somehow Eden (Charlotte's daughter) is in line to inherit 1,000,000 pounds and that he is suing her to keep it in his family. What on earth happened in the past that led to Eden being the recipient of this rich inheritance from a family she doesn't know? And what does Amos, her mother's old childhood friend have to do with it?
Throw in the arrival of Land Girls to help the Holt Estate (Eden's home), the bombing of Coventry by Germany, trying to repair the breech between Charlotte and Amos, Amos's PTSD from the first war...and a whole bunch of secrets and you have quite the story.
While this sells as Christian fiction, the faith is super low-key and there aren't inspirational passages. Other than knowing the characters go to church and have morals...it isn't rich with any spiritual message. In fact I could easily give this book to someone who "doesn't read Christian fiction" and they would be fine with it.
I was going to give it 4 stars. But then the ending came and the emotions happened and now I'm going to give it 4.5 stars. I can't quite give it 5 stars because I hold those jealously and only certain books really have to be stellar to snag them. So for the sake of all these online sites, I can only do a 4 star rating, I'm afraid.
This was a very good book. Not my favorite by this author but this is very very very good. Oh and the song that Charlotte plays on her cello--Bach suite #1, I knew EXACTLY what song this was going to be before I even verified it. And honestly I had it playing in my mind all through the epilogue. It would be the soundtrack of the movie if ever one was made.
*I received a complimentary copy of the ARC from the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
The overall plot tying it all together is the relationship of Amos and Charlotte--friends since childhood who drifted apart right around the start of the war in 1915 due to...things. We see them again as middle aged in the secondary timeline of WW2. Through flashbacks and narrative, we are taken on a journey to learn what happened to each of them to bring them to where they are now--competing booksellers near Coventry, England. Apparently at odds with each other in a private "war" of sorts.
Throw in the arrival of the young American Jacob Cole--who blows the past open with his announcement that somehow Eden (Charlotte's daughter) is in line to inherit 1,000,000 pounds and that he is suing her to keep it in his family. What on earth happened in the past that led to Eden being the recipient of this rich inheritance from a family she doesn't know? And what does Amos, her mother's old childhood friend have to do with it?
Throw in the arrival of Land Girls to help the Holt Estate (Eden's home), the bombing of Coventry by Germany, trying to repair the breech between Charlotte and Amos, Amos's PTSD from the first war...and a whole bunch of secrets and you have quite the story.
While this sells as Christian fiction, the faith is super low-key and there aren't inspirational passages. Other than knowing the characters go to church and have morals...it isn't rich with any spiritual message. In fact I could easily give this book to someone who "doesn't read Christian fiction" and they would be fine with it.
I was going to give it 4 stars. But then the ending came and the emotions happened and now I'm going to give it 4.5 stars. I can't quite give it 5 stars because I hold those jealously and only certain books really have to be stellar to snag them. So for the sake of all these online sites, I can only do a 4 star rating, I'm afraid.
This was a very good book. Not my favorite by this author but this is very very very good. Oh and the song that Charlotte plays on her cello--Bach suite #1, I knew EXACTLY what song this was going to be before I even verified it. And honestly I had it playing in my mind all through the epilogue. It would be the soundtrack of the movie if ever one was made.
*I received a complimentary copy of the ARC from the publishers and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
May 9, 2024
Enjoyed the two timelines and loved all the bookish references. Excellent story!
May 12, 2024
This book took me a little bit to get into while trying to follow the two different periods... but once I got a bit more into the story I was invested! I've read a decent amount of historical fiction and this one was different and unique with it incorporating WW1 & WW2. I really liked the characters, their stories, and how the main characters were booksellers.
This book is marketed as Christian fiction, but there was no discussion of God or faith that I can recall... which I would have loved to see! There was no language or explicit content and I would consider this a clean read.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I think you will enjoy this one!
This was my first book by Kristy Cambron and it won't be my last!💜
This book is marketed as Christian fiction, but there was no discussion of God or faith that I can recall... which I would have loved to see! There was no language or explicit content and I would consider this a clean read.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I think you will enjoy this one!
This was my first book by Kristy Cambron and it won't be my last!💜
April 16, 2024
You’ve Got Mail meets Downton Abbey in this heart-achingly lovely dual time period historical romance from Kristy Cambron. Taking place mainly in 1914 and 1940, this book took me on a page turning journey as childhood friends Amos & Charlie (Lady Charlotte) share their love of books and more through war, heartbreak, rivalry, and second chance love.
I absolutely loved Amos, the grumpy, wounded farmer’s son with a heart of gold, and Charlotte, the resilient, kind hearted, cello playing heiress. Torn apart by class differences and WWI, they’re now rival bookshop owning enemies. I loved finding out what happened in 1914 and WWI to make their relationship what is was in 1940.
I also loved Eden and Jacob! Eden is Charlotte’s daughter who’s doing everything she can to keep their estate running amidst the Coventry Blitz. Jacob’s an American lawyer who’s come to present her with papers naming her in a contested will. They start off as enemies, but as they work together to help the Coventry community, they begin to grow closer.
Both time periods were so compelling and I couldn’t wait to unravel the mystery in each one. Each storyline comes together for a stunning, touching, heroic ending that left me in tears. War brings out the best and worst in people and I loved seeing the best for once. I enjoyed learning about the Forgotten Blitz and the Land Girls through this amazing story.
Full of romance, intrigue, heroism, and love of music & the written word, The British Booksellers is a new favorite book by Kristy Cambron. Highly recommend to historical romance fans! Definitely add this love letter to books & second chances to your must read list! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
I absolutely loved Amos, the grumpy, wounded farmer’s son with a heart of gold, and Charlotte, the resilient, kind hearted, cello playing heiress. Torn apart by class differences and WWI, they’re now rival bookshop owning enemies. I loved finding out what happened in 1914 and WWI to make their relationship what is was in 1940.
I also loved Eden and Jacob! Eden is Charlotte’s daughter who’s doing everything she can to keep their estate running amidst the Coventry Blitz. Jacob’s an American lawyer who’s come to present her with papers naming her in a contested will. They start off as enemies, but as they work together to help the Coventry community, they begin to grow closer.
Both time periods were so compelling and I couldn’t wait to unravel the mystery in each one. Each storyline comes together for a stunning, touching, heroic ending that left me in tears. War brings out the best and worst in people and I loved seeing the best for once. I enjoyed learning about the Forgotten Blitz and the Land Girls through this amazing story.
Full of romance, intrigue, heroism, and love of music & the written word, The British Booksellers is a new favorite book by Kristy Cambron. Highly recommend to historical romance fans! Definitely add this love letter to books & second chances to your must read list! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
April 8, 2024
I absolutely LOVED this dual timeline, second chance romance between two childhood friends, Charlotte and Amos who find themselves cruelly separated by circumstances before they can run off to get married on the eve of WWI.
Fast forward twenty-five years and the two find themselves as rival Coventry booksellers on the verge of another war. Charlotte is now a war widow with a full grown daughter in charge of a failing estate and Amos is her grumpy long lost love.
Full of yearning, mutual pining and incredible acts of bravery both during the First and Second World Wars as the two make an agreement to work together in order to endure the Blitz bombings in their beloved town. Great on audio narrated by Barrie Kreinik, this is a must read by a favorite author.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
Fast forward twenty-five years and the two find themselves as rival Coventry booksellers on the verge of another war. Charlotte is now a war widow with a full grown daughter in charge of a failing estate and Amos is her grumpy long lost love.
Full of yearning, mutual pining and incredible acts of bravery both during the First and Second World Wars as the two make an agreement to work together in order to endure the Blitz bombings in their beloved town. Great on audio narrated by Barrie Kreinik, this is a must read by a favorite author.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
April 5, 2024
With strong characters and an arresting plot, this was a memorable WWII story set in Coventry, England, when the unthinkable happened to devastate this quiet village.
Told in split time between WWI and 1940, the story revolves around the lives of Charlotte Terrington Holt and Amos Darby and their roles in the class system of days gone by. The author takes us back to a time when the whole country banded together to support the war effort by conservation, rationing, uprooting their lives and putting aside long held dreams for a united cause. “Childhood dreams had no place in the real world..”
The author delves into the background connections of Charlotte and Amos to give us the differences between classes and how that perspective changed during wartime. And as times change new romance takes wings. “To love meant to accept all the grit and grief alongside the beauty. To endure the harshness of life not with despair, but hope.”
Blackouts, sirens, Land Girls, loneliness, hidden secrets, surprising connections, second chances, a common goal. All these things and more come together in one emotional tale.
An exceptional story that gives yet another slant on what people went through during WWII on the home front.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*
Told in split time between WWI and 1940, the story revolves around the lives of Charlotte Terrington Holt and Amos Darby and their roles in the class system of days gone by. The author takes us back to a time when the whole country banded together to support the war effort by conservation, rationing, uprooting their lives and putting aside long held dreams for a united cause. “Childhood dreams had no place in the real world..”
The author delves into the background connections of Charlotte and Amos to give us the differences between classes and how that perspective changed during wartime. And as times change new romance takes wings. “To love meant to accept all the grit and grief alongside the beauty. To endure the harshness of life not with despair, but hope.”
Blackouts, sirens, Land Girls, loneliness, hidden secrets, surprising connections, second chances, a common goal. All these things and more come together in one emotional tale.
An exceptional story that gives yet another slant on what people went through during WWII on the home front.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*
May 2, 2024
Another favorite by this author! Kristy's books are always like returning home in a literary sense: I can always expect great characters, compelling prose, and a very well researched book, chock full of historical information I'd never known before. Her latest book is no different. I flew through this book in suspense of Charlotte and Amos's past and present stories of enduring love and Charlotte's daughter's POV of determined loyalty and a surprising connection to a certain solicitor. The startling recounting of the Forgotten Coventry Blitz truly gave me chills, and the Author's Note even moved me to tear up a little. On top of all that, the power of story to unite people as well as the power of community in dire times to support one another in love during shared pain was exemplified well, making this historical novel a contemporary reminder. We all need someone there for us in the good and bad to brave this crazy hard life. This book inspired me, reminded me how important it is to love well, and it glued me to my seat with vivid, emotional, and beautiful writing. There are lots of WWI/II books out there, but this book, like this author's other works, truly sets itself apart with little-known pieces of history and writing as memorable as it is relatable. HIGHLY recommend!! 👏❤ Hebrews 13:1❤
November 23, 2023
2.5 stars & PSA: the man on the cover is giving Michael Huisman in the best way and I am HERE for that.
“The British Booksellers” is one of those historical romance novels that goes down well with a cup of tea and a biscuit. You can read it in one go if you wish, it’s neither harmful nor controversial, stays in its lane at all times and does exactly what it says on the tin. That it doesn’t introduce anything new or exciting, and that it chooses to focus on four very white, very bland, very heterosexual characters, can’t well be used as arguments against it, but it doesn’t win the novel any bonus points either.
Advertised as a second-chance romance between two childhood friends turned enemy bookshop owners who, in the face of World War II finding its way to Coventry, have to band together to save their businesses, their loved ones, and their home, I do think the novel fell a bit short of its self-advertised plot. Amos Darby, once a farm boy, now an independent bookseller who returned from the Great War with scars on the outside as well as the inside, and Lady Charlotte Holt, whom World War I turned into a young widowed mother responsible for running her late husband’s sprawling estate all but by herself, are supposed to unanimously hate each other, though little if anything of that hate shines through on the page.
It doesn’t take much to figure out from the instance we are introduced to Amos that he still seems to be head over heels in love for Charlotte. Even Charlotte, who might come across as a bit more aloof, though less gruff and less anti-social than him, fails to convince readers that she could regard Amos with anything more than mild annoyance at best. Again, no surprise here, it is, after all, a trademark of the genre as well as the second-chance romance trope, but still, the author could have worked harder to let readers get a real feel for the animosity and hate supposedly existing between the two. While no fan of the haters-to-lovers trope, I think a novel should deliver what it promises, and if there is one surefire way to lose readers, it’s marketing a book as one thing when it effectually is another.
Apart from the fact that you had to squint real hard while simultaneously turning a blind eye to find the promised animosity between Davos and Charlotte, I don’t think the triple-POV structure worked in the narrative’s favour. The book was not only split into past Charlotte’s and past Amos’s POVs, but also between present-day Charlotte’s, present-day Amos’s, and present-day Eden’s (Charlotte’s daughter), the latter’s POVs making up a not unsubstantial part of the book, thus taking up a lot of pages. Said lack of space to properly develop Amos and Charlotte in more detail can be keenly felt, especially because they just weren’t well-rounded enough to get me properly invested at all in their romantic relationship. I do think there could have been a lot more yearning, and many more pages dedicated to the two to achieve that sizzling feeling you get in your stomach when you read about two characters that you need to end up together so bad, it hurts. In and of itself, the romance doesn’t exceed lingering touches and a few kisses, so if you’re looking for a clean romance; I’d say this is for you.
Don’t get me wrong, I do love everything about the DNA inherent in this set-up: second-chance romance, adult characters falling in love, and an in any way disfigured character thinking they’re worthless and undeserving of love because of their disfigurement/disability when actually, the opposite is true… the ingredients are all THERE, but someone wasn’t cooking.
I don’t have much to say regarding the writing except that it felt oddly choppy at times. I can’t even list examples since every time one of those sentences made me stumble, I chose to ignore it rather than highlight it and think about it even longer. The best description I can give is that especially when the author was describing an action or an event, some sentences were just devoid of information as to what exactly was happening with me feeling like I missed a few seconds of the plot. In one sentence, she describes person A putting their hand on person B’s arm, and in the second part of the sentence, the hand was suddenly somewhere else. Just… choppy. I’m okay with beautiful-sounding though empty metaphors and the odd simile here and there, but I hate when I’m losing the plot because actions aren’t described in enough detail.
Even without having read any of the author’s previous historical romance novels, which, on a first glance, all seem to be set during either WW I or WW II, I can tell she is not only knowledgeable about the subject and devoted to writing about and including WW II events that are lesser known because they happened outside of London (the Coventry Blitz, for once, which serves as the novel’s backdrop, and which the Nazis deemed so successful, the coined a new verb after it ‒ coventrieren / (to) devastate, or raze a city to the ground), but that she has a good eye for how to write what feels to me like authentic and historically appropriate dialogue.
All in all, a decent enough historical romance novel though it would have needed a bit more oompfh and more clarity in its writing to win me over.
As always, thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🎬 If you enjoyed this you should watch that: The Guernsey Literary Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
“The British Booksellers” is one of those historical romance novels that goes down well with a cup of tea and a biscuit. You can read it in one go if you wish, it’s neither harmful nor controversial, stays in its lane at all times and does exactly what it says on the tin. That it doesn’t introduce anything new or exciting, and that it chooses to focus on four very white, very bland, very heterosexual characters, can’t well be used as arguments against it, but it doesn’t win the novel any bonus points either.
Advertised as a second-chance romance between two childhood friends turned enemy bookshop owners who, in the face of World War II finding its way to Coventry, have to band together to save their businesses, their loved ones, and their home, I do think the novel fell a bit short of its self-advertised plot. Amos Darby, once a farm boy, now an independent bookseller who returned from the Great War with scars on the outside as well as the inside, and Lady Charlotte Holt, whom World War I turned into a young widowed mother responsible for running her late husband’s sprawling estate all but by herself, are supposed to unanimously hate each other, though little if anything of that hate shines through on the page.
It doesn’t take much to figure out from the instance we are introduced to Amos that he still seems to be head over heels in love for Charlotte. Even Charlotte, who might come across as a bit more aloof, though less gruff and less anti-social than him, fails to convince readers that she could regard Amos with anything more than mild annoyance at best. Again, no surprise here, it is, after all, a trademark of the genre as well as the second-chance romance trope, but still, the author could have worked harder to let readers get a real feel for the animosity and hate supposedly existing between the two. While no fan of the haters-to-lovers trope, I think a novel should deliver what it promises, and if there is one surefire way to lose readers, it’s marketing a book as one thing when it effectually is another.
Apart from the fact that you had to squint real hard while simultaneously turning a blind eye to find the promised animosity between Davos and Charlotte, I don’t think the triple-POV structure worked in the narrative’s favour. The book was not only split into past Charlotte’s and past Amos’s POVs, but also between present-day Charlotte’s, present-day Amos’s, and present-day Eden’s (Charlotte’s daughter), the latter’s POVs making up a not unsubstantial part of the book, thus taking up a lot of pages. Said lack of space to properly develop Amos and Charlotte in more detail can be keenly felt, especially because they just weren’t well-rounded enough to get me properly invested at all in their romantic relationship. I do think there could have been a lot more yearning, and many more pages dedicated to the two to achieve that sizzling feeling you get in your stomach when you read about two characters that you need to end up together so bad, it hurts. In and of itself, the romance doesn’t exceed lingering touches and a few kisses, so if you’re looking for a clean romance; I’d say this is for you.
Don’t get me wrong, I do love everything about the DNA inherent in this set-up: second-chance romance, adult characters falling in love, and an in any way disfigured character thinking they’re worthless and undeserving of love because of their disfigurement/disability when actually, the opposite is true… the ingredients are all THERE, but someone wasn’t cooking.
I don’t have much to say regarding the writing except that it felt oddly choppy at times. I can’t even list examples since every time one of those sentences made me stumble, I chose to ignore it rather than highlight it and think about it even longer. The best description I can give is that especially when the author was describing an action or an event, some sentences were just devoid of information as to what exactly was happening with me feeling like I missed a few seconds of the plot. In one sentence, she describes person A putting their hand on person B’s arm, and in the second part of the sentence, the hand was suddenly somewhere else. Just… choppy. I’m okay with beautiful-sounding though empty metaphors and the odd simile here and there, but I hate when I’m losing the plot because actions aren’t described in enough detail.
Even without having read any of the author’s previous historical romance novels, which, on a first glance, all seem to be set during either WW I or WW II, I can tell she is not only knowledgeable about the subject and devoted to writing about and including WW II events that are lesser known because they happened outside of London (the Coventry Blitz, for once, which serves as the novel’s backdrop, and which the Nazis deemed so successful, the coined a new verb after it ‒ coventrieren / (to) devastate, or raze a city to the ground), but that she has a good eye for how to write what feels to me like authentic and historically appropriate dialogue.
All in all, a decent enough historical romance novel though it would have needed a bit more oompfh and more clarity in its writing to win me over.
As always, thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🎬 If you enjoyed this you should watch that: The Guernsey Literary Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
April 1, 2024
I am still reeling with everything this book made me feel and think...
I have many Cambron books on my shelf, but I believe this is the first one I've actually read, and WOW 😍 This book is rich in historical details and just as rich in beautiful storytelling and strong characters!
With each chapter I found myself gaping over how perfectly she pulled off the storyline; the way details lined up and one thing led to another had me turning the page late into the night.
I'll be pulling those other books off my shelf within the next couple weeks if this story is anything to go by!
Note: I received an advanced reader copy from the author, and I was not required to leave a positive review. All views expressed are my own.
I have many Cambron books on my shelf, but I believe this is the first one I've actually read, and WOW 😍 This book is rich in historical details and just as rich in beautiful storytelling and strong characters!
With each chapter I found myself gaping over how perfectly she pulled off the storyline; the way details lined up and one thing led to another had me turning the page late into the night.
I'll be pulling those other books off my shelf within the next couple weeks if this story is anything to go by!
Note: I received an advanced reader copy from the author, and I was not required to leave a positive review. All views expressed are my own.
February 12, 2024
I absolutely loved this story. Kristy Cambron has such an captivating way of expertly leading the reader along with new revelations in each timeline that one can simply not stop keep turning pages. She writes such beautiful and satisfying stories. I could not put The British Booksellers down!
1908, 1914, and 1940 Coventry England.
"How many times in life could a boy say he was risking his neck, doing the very last thing he'd expected....for a girl?" From the first line to the last, this sweeping saga begins the with a prologue in 1908, then the two time lines occur in 1914 with WWI, and 1940, with the backdrops of World War I in England and France, and The Coventry Blitz in Coventry England during World War II. The Christmas Truce in 1914 in WWI plays a small but pivotal role in this story.
Beautiful story of books, music, love, friendship, duty, sacrifice, heroism, forgiveness, and second chances abound. I love the fact that instead of one hero, there were several, including one that surprised and delighted me. I loved the stories in both timelines, the historical detail, and the way the author makes you feel like you're there.
I HIGHLY recommend this excellent historical fiction! Thank you to publisher Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early ecopy. All opinions are my own. I can't wait for my own preordered copy to arrive for my keeper shelf.
1908, 1914, and 1940 Coventry England.
"How many times in life could a boy say he was risking his neck, doing the very last thing he'd expected....for a girl?" From the first line to the last, this sweeping saga begins the with a prologue in 1908, then the two time lines occur in 1914 with WWI, and 1940, with the backdrops of World War I in England and France, and The Coventry Blitz in Coventry England during World War II. The Christmas Truce in 1914 in WWI plays a small but pivotal role in this story.
Beautiful story of books, music, love, friendship, duty, sacrifice, heroism, forgiveness, and second chances abound. I love the fact that instead of one hero, there were several, including one that surprised and delighted me. I loved the stories in both timelines, the historical detail, and the way the author makes you feel like you're there.
I HIGHLY recommend this excellent historical fiction! Thank you to publisher Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early ecopy. All opinions are my own. I can't wait for my own preordered copy to arrive for my keeper shelf.
April 13, 2024
“Everyone is something to someone. Remember that. The scars we bear should make us more worthy of understanding, not less.”
I absolutely loved this book. Kristy Cambron has written a new classic in historical fiction. This tale of war and love from both the Great War and World War II had me spellbound. Second chance romance, split time periods, mystery, wounded hero, and a strong heroine make this book a must-read. Add in a second romance with a satisfying ending, and it's a 5 star read for me.
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers, and this is my honest opinion.
I absolutely loved this book. Kristy Cambron has written a new classic in historical fiction. This tale of war and love from both the Great War and World War II had me spellbound. Second chance romance, split time periods, mystery, wounded hero, and a strong heroine make this book a must-read. Add in a second romance with a satisfying ending, and it's a 5 star read for me.
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers, and this is my honest opinion.
April 10, 2024
I thought this was a fascinating story, heartbreaking, hopeful and dramatic. A second chance at love for Charlotte and possibly first love for her daughter Eden, set amidst the bombing of Coventry, England during WWII. There are alternating chapters with flashbacks to WWI and earlier that provide the backstory for Charlotte and Amos. They have a lot of history. Amos has scars that are both visible and invisible. The battling bookstores made this story unique and what reader wouldn’t love all of the literary references? I also loved how everyone pulled together during this crisis and served those in need. I thought the whole book was creatively done and a compelling read.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and NetGalley. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and NetGalley. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
April 18, 2024
The British Booksellers is a fantastic Christian Wartime Romance! Charlotte and Amos are friends in love before the first war begins. Unable to wed, they are torn apart to live separate lives. We follow the timelines of their present as well as their past leading up to the current war. I loved how we gradually received more information about their love. A touching novel that I highly recommend!
May 12, 2024
I enjoyed this story so much. It gave me all the elements I love in a historical fiction: dual timeline, unforgettable characters, romance (x2), and preserving historical moments.
January 8, 2024
An inspirational WWII story based on true events; a tribute to the bravery of the men and women of Coventry, England.
The dual timeline format is effectively used to build the back story of Charlotte and Amos. Bouncing between their youth in the WW1 era, to the next world war around 1940, the full picture is revealed piece by piece. A classic tale of an unrequited romance--one with class and social barriers--this pair sure went through a lot. Amos in particular suffered physically and mentally in the aftermath of the war. The topic of PTSD is underlined in a period when little was known about it. The author's careful research of the actual history is woven into the story and well documented in the index. The people showed such courage and stalwart efforts to 'soldier on' in difficult circumstances. I love how the author also featured characters from the Women's Land Army. They were a colorful bunch.
Readers who enjoy an in depth WWII story based on real events, with some clean romance and inspirational moments, should enjoy this one. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
The dual timeline format is effectively used to build the back story of Charlotte and Amos. Bouncing between their youth in the WW1 era, to the next world war around 1940, the full picture is revealed piece by piece. A classic tale of an unrequited romance--one with class and social barriers--this pair sure went through a lot. Amos in particular suffered physically and mentally in the aftermath of the war. The topic of PTSD is underlined in a period when little was known about it. The author's careful research of the actual history is woven into the story and well documented in the index. The people showed such courage and stalwart efforts to 'soldier on' in difficult circumstances. I love how the author also featured characters from the Women's Land Army. They were a colorful bunch.
Readers who enjoy an in depth WWII story based on real events, with some clean romance and inspirational moments, should enjoy this one. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
December 29, 2023
From page one, the dynamic, endearing characters in THE BRITISH BOOKSELLERS stole my heart. Kristy Cambron is an assured storyteller, weaving together dual periods and complex family structures with ease. Fans of DOWNTON ABBEY will adore THE BRITSH BOOKSELLERS.
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