Another powerful dual timeline by Kristy Cambron. This novel encompasses both WWI and WWII. The central theme is the impact of different events on our lives and how we deal with them, how they shape us into who we are, but also the choices we can (but might not) make. Ms. Cambron tackles this topic through the pain, struggles and growth in the lives of Charlotte, Amos and Will. The setting is mainly around Coventry in the U.K. with some scenes set in France during WWI. Besides the huge life lessons, the reader learns a lot about history, in particular the German attacks on and around Coventry. As always, the research is impeccable, in-depth and beautifully woven into the story. Very likable main characters, and a bad guy with a hidden surprise side which comes to light after many years. The author brings in many different aspects and some other unexpected elements that are super interesting and keeps one reading as if there’s no tomorrow. She’s an excellent writer and you feel part of the scenes. When there’s a piece that needs to have a number of facts summed up, she does it in such a gracious way that you don’t even notice that she just packed a bunch of information in half a page. Ms. Cambron has very much mastered the art of showing versus telling. Favorite lines “Books are an escape that beckons the reader from the heavy burdens of this world”, …”that tall dreamboat over there…”, “When you read a book as a child, it becomes part of your identity in a way no other reading in your whole life does…” I once read “Number the Stars” (about WWII in Denmark) with a class. Fifteen years later, one of my former students visited me (he had moved to Europe and so had I) and said, “My love of history started with that book.” To all you history lovers, the British Booksellers is another one you do not want to miss!

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing me with a free complimentary copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This complex and compelling book covers both World Wars in dual timelines. Some of the characters are affected by both wars, along with other players in each period. I laughed. I cried. I stayed up late reading. Cambron describes the affects of the war on the area around Coventry in heart-breaking detail, and makes it come alive because I cared about the people it affected.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." #TheBritishBooksellers #NetGalley

This is a beautiful, heartfelt story that begins in 1914 through 1915, when WWI, known as the Great War, is happening. Amos Darby, the son of a tenant farmer, and Charlotte Terrington, the daughter of an earl, have secretly been best of friends since childhood. The story unfolds during the challenges and hardships of the Great War and is expertly woven into the time of the 1940s when WWII, Hitler and more devastation is imminent.
As they Amos and Charlotte grow older, a true affection develops between them. They even discuss marriage. However, the Earl of Harcourt chooses Charlotte to be his wife. Her parents are in favor of the match, and Charlotte feels she is destined to a loveless marriage.
During the saga of the second war, in the 1940s, Charlotte is a widow, and has an 18-year-old daughter, Eden, who is determined to preserve the legacy of the father she never knew. Unexpectedly a lawyer from the United States shows up during the war, with a lawsuit that could end everything Charlotte and Eden have worked hard to save.
Over the many years between the end of WWI and the beginning of WWII, Amos, and Charlette both own competing bookshops on the same street, nearly across the street from each other. Although they have never spoken to one another in many years, they never lost their love of books or the value they play in life.
This captivating story has many interesting facts and details of the eras in which it takes place. I loved all the details and descriptions of life during the challenge of living through two wars. There is a large cast of intriguing, delightful characters. This is a fast-paced story with numerous surprises and secrets.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed and remarks are totally mine.

A compelling historical novel, full of rich period detail and vivid descriptions, “The British Booksellers”, by Kristy Cambron, is about family, friendship, love, sacrifice and duty.
Set against de backdrop of the 20th Century World Wars, the story follows Amos and Charlotte as their close, sweet friendship evolves into unfulfilled love and their lives become interwoven even when they’re separated.
Their youth friendship and affection is so natural and deep. The years apart and the feud because of class distinction dissipate when circumstances bring them together again.
I liked how the wounded recluse slowly became more involved with the community and new and old people somehow interfere in his loneliness and bring him out of it, among the tragedy and utter destruction of bombings and war.
The apparent decades-long indifference was just a façade.
It is relevant the role Eden and Jacob had in Amos awakening to society and life.
I enjoyed watching the younger couple getting attached; they’re great characters, too.
The mother/daughter relationship is tight and deep.
The secrets binding the characters are wonderfully narrated, and kept me guessing with curiosity.
I also liked the setting – Coventry, England – the way the author described the period events, the rigid class distinctions and customs, and the camaraderie and affection between people from different stations in society despite all the barriers.

Another great read from one of my favorite authors. I loved reading the story from multiple perspectives and was so happy that the book had a happy ending.. The mystery was a great benefit too. It was a fantastic read and I could hardly put it down.

The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron is a great dual timeline historical fiction that I really enjoyed.

I have read several books by Ms. Cambron, and I have enjoyed every one of them. This is a great addition.

There is history, mystery, suspense, emotion, forgiveness, heart, and it really kept my interest throughout. The author always does a great job at weaving together fiction and fact. The pacing also was just perfect and kept me engaged as we followed along to the satisfying end. A memorable read.

4/5 stars

Thank you NG and Thomas Nelson for this wonderful ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/9/24.

Kristy Cambron, yes please! Have I read all of her books? Yes, that's a yes. Did I enjoy this book? Yep. Was it exactly what I wanted it to be? Another yes there. I love historical fiction, and I appreciate the wholesomeness in Kristy's books. She is an author that I can always recommend to anyone because I know that it will be a great read, but also clean.

This is the story of class differences, a boy, a girl and war - and books. For large portions of the early stages of the book I was straining to keep track of who was who and what was actually going on. I am still unclear as to the cause of the major conflict; the reason given seemed just too simplistic but perhaps I was hoping for more and missed the point.

The chapters flip between 1914 and 1940. The 1940s chapters highlighted the Coventry Blitz and the story was woven around this real life event. Characters Charlotte, Amos, and Will were the focal points but I enjoyed the German soldier who liked horses and how his role played out at the end.

I do appreciate the early opportunity to read and review; thank you NetGalley.

Everything I have ever read by Kristy Cambron is always a treat and of the highest quality, and this book was no different. What sets her apart is her breathtaking prose, her excellent characterization, and the quality of her historical accuracy. Combine that with books, lost love, and redemption during WWII Blitz and you are swept away yet glued to your seat! Absolutely wonderful! I recommend all her books, but I believe this one is my favorite and her best yet! TEN STARS!
In short, this was a fantastic WWII novel that is unputdownable. Authentic details and superb writing raise this book above the rest. I really enjoyed it and will read anything this author decides to write!