Oh I love to read and this story was so compelling to read. Dual time line from WWII to present day. There is a mystery some romance and background on WWII. The story ties up at the end with a satisfying conclusion.

Reading stories based in bookstores is a bookworms dream. And when they are set around one of the famous periods in history, you know you are going to want to know the outcome. I really did enjoy reading this.

I love books about bookshops! This book was awesome and I highly recommend it. The time goes from WWIi in Paris to today. This book is two stories where the characters stories come together in the end of the book. If I had to choose, I liked the story that took place during WWII best, but it all came together into a family saga that was heartwarming and entertaining!

4.5 *

This one sat on my NetGalley shelf for way too long!!!

I enjoyed Daisy Wood's debut novel but I loved this one even more! From the first page to the last!

The chapters alternate every few times. From around 1940 and into WW II and present day.

In 1940 we meet Jacques and his wife Mathilde. They live in Paris and Jacques runs a bookshop. Mathilde works at a museum. War breaks out and Mathilde is determined to help with the French resistance. Jacques is petrified and just wants to keep his beloved wife safe. I thought this part of the story would focus more on Mathilde but it slowly began to focus on Jacques and his quiet but courageous fight. What an awesome human being! I know this is a work of fiction but just knowing that there actually were people who did what he did makes me so hopeful about humanity! Horrific times can bring out the best in people.

In the present day story Juliette is visiting Paris with her husband. Her Grandmother was originally from there and Juliette is drawn to a certain square that is depicted in her Grandmother's beloved picture that hung in her home for many years. As Juliette is suddenly faced with a personal dilemma she decides to stay on in Paris indefinitely and gather more information. Her dream is to open a bookshop.

It's a heartbreaking story about the horrors and depiction of WW II that is just beautifully written. The present timeline reminds us that people still care to know about the brave acts of so many during that horrendous time.

I'd like to kindly thank NetGalley and Avon Books UK for granting me access to this advanced Reader Copy. I just wish I'd have read it sooner!

This book was a beautifully curated work of historical fiction that I could not put down. Told through two narrators, Jaques Duval during WWII and Juliette in 2022, this book explores themes of love, loss, war, and hope.

Jaques is a bookseller whos wife's actions and strong will encourage him to find the fire in his belly and help those that need it. His role in the Resistance is small but mighty and his bookshop, La Page Cachée, is a trove of secrets and safety. Flash forward to the modern day and Juliette is in Paris with her husband. After accidentally uncovering her husband's ongoing affair with their neighbour at home, Juliette decides to stay in Paris and try to uncover the connection that her grandmother had with the city. All she has to go off is a painting of a town square in Paris and though other's think she's never going to find out anything of interest, Juliette's journey shows us how trusting your gut and following your instincts will lead you down the right path.

This story was incredible. It was beautifully written and I was absolutely engrossed in both storylines. I always forget how much I enjoy Historical Fiction and a book like this has made me fall in love with the genre all over again. As tense as it was tender, The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris shows how important it is to fight for what's right, to help those who need it most, and to remain true to yourself throughout. A gorgeous book I won't be forgetting any time soon. I absolutely recommend this book, I read it in less than 24hrs and am sad that it's over. My only criticism is aimed towards myself in that I didn't read it sooner.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A full review will also be posted on Instagram @getting.back.to.books

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
Both stories in this dual timeline book totally absorbed me: the WW2 story of Jacques and his wife working within the Resistance was fascinating, mixing historical fact with fictional characters, and Juliette's present-day determination to make a life for herself in Paris mixed new romance with her family relationships. The characters and their behaviours and emotions were completely credible, and I couldn't out the book.down. Be prepared for sorrow as well as happiness, keep the tissues handy! I've signed up to follow this author after reading this book.

Such a beautiful heartbreaking story. I really enjoyed this book and getting to know the characters.

I do enjoy stories within two timeframes and both were equally strong. 100% recommended.

Thank you Net Galley and Avon books for a copy of The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris.

This was a dual timeline, WW2 and present day set in France. I enjoy historical fiction. But I enjoyed the present day storyline more.

I am a lover of bookshops and books so the title and cover of this novel definitely drew my attention. The story is told in a dual timeline and I feel the author did a memorable job of telling the story of Jacques during the war and Juliette during present day.

Jacques is the owner of the bookshop La Page Cachée. In 1940 wartime France, books became items that could land their owners in great trouble if they found themselves on the Nazi banned book list. When Jacques realizes that so many precious stories could end up being destroyed, he builds a hiding place in his store where he can stash the books that are no longer considered acceptable. When his wife Mathilde is forced to go into hiding away from Jacques, her courage and determination influence him to do what he can to resist even though she is no longer at his side to support him.

In modern day, Juliette and her husband are vacationing in Paris. It is a place she has always longed to visit especially as her grandmother was French. Her husband is with her reluctantly and when she discovers he has been unfaithful, she decides to stay in Paris and spend time trying to discover herself and her family history. The novel details her finding the old bookstore and decision to stay and try to resurrect it. In the process she makes new friends and begins a new romance.

Both of these timelines deal with love and loss. The books are the character that crosses over and melds these stories. I would definitely recommend the book to fans of historical fiction related to WW2.

Thanks to #NetGalley and Avon Books for allowing me to read an advance copy. The review is completely my own unbiased opinions.

What a compelling WWII historical fiction novel that skillfully weaves together themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of books. Set against the backdrop of war-torn Paris in 1940, the story takes readers on a journey through time, exploring the lives of two protagonists whose paths intertwine in unexpected ways.

Wood's writing transports readers to a city on the brink of chaos, where Jacques, the owner of La Page Cachée, finds solace amidst the turmoil. As the Nazis tighten their grip on the city, Jacques's determination to protect his beloved bookshop becomes a symbol of hope in the face of adversity. The author's vivid descriptions and attention to historical detail create an immersive experience, allowing readers to feel the weight of the war and its impact on the characters' lives.

The narrative seamlessly transitions to the modern day, introducing Juliette. Her discovery of the forgotten bookshop sparks a newfound sense of adventure and intrigue. Wood skillfully intertwines the past and present, gradually revealing the secrets hidden within the bookshop's walls. This dual timeline approach adds depth to the story, as readers uncover the connections between the characters and the echoes of betrayal that reverberate through generations.

Jacques and Juliette are both complex and relatable, each grappling with their own personal struggles. Their journeys of self-discovery and resilience make for a compelling read, as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and the search for meaning.

While the novel captivates with its engaging plot and well-drawn characters, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven. Some sections may benefit from further exploration and development to fully immerse readers in the emotional depth of the story.

Daisy Wood's evocative writing and intricate storytelling make this novel a worthwhile read, reminding us of the enduring power of books and the connections they forge across time.

I enjoyed this book. I am a fan of dual timeline stories and this one was no exception. I felt the characters were well developed and the story nicely paced. I would recommend this story to fans of historical fiction. Thank you to net galley and the publishers for my copy of this book.

Often when I read dual timeline stories I find the present day element either feels quite contrived or just generally not as interesting as the historical element. The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris manages to offset the 2 timelines really well and I enjoyed both sides.

As you would expect elements of the war story do become upsetting but it is so well told that I found it very compelling to read.

I loved every minute of this book! Jacques and Juliette were characters that really attached themselves to the reader. The story was very well written with interest kept throughout the book. This book is definitely meant to be shared with your friends who enjoy historical fiction.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley

A powerful story set in WW2 Paris and the present day. Well researched and emotional. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.

In a quiet, hidden square in Paris there is a quiet, hidden bookshop full of secrets. It all started when Jacques Duval finds himself hiding banned books from the German invaders during World War 2. It isn't long before he finds himself hiding much more. Years later, Juliette finds herself in Paris to try and start a new life. She is irresistibly drawn to the old bookshop and its secrets but is unprepared where her hunt for the truth will lead her.

This is a beautiful story of courage and hope in so many forms. It is brave to stand up for what you believe, even in the face of death. It is brave to walk away and start again. The characters were complex and human and so relatable. I loved the dual viewpoints of the different eras keeping me guessing and looking for clues to all the secrets. This book had me in tears all the way through. It's one of those stories that stay with you long after you've put it down.

Well written book with dual times lines. I think I liked present day best! Many thanks to publisher and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion

This was a fantastic read! I loved the dual timeline of the present day and the past and how it all connected and came together in the end with a great set of characters.

I loved the bookish and library vibes in this book! The cover is quite nice, and the love story was whimsical. I wasn't crazy about the romance being open door although it was brief and mild. This was a fairly good book, although not one of my favorites really.
I received this complimentary e-book from the publisher through Netgalley, and was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts above are my own.

I absolutely love WWII historical fiction books … especially if they involve a dual timeline. This book just clicked with me. I loved the story of Jacques and Mathilde. Their relationship was heartwarming and their personalities were unique and complimented the other. Mathilde’s determination and bravery in the face of the Nazi invasion was admirable. And then to see Jacques take up the cause was encouraging. When we catch up to the present day timeline, I fell in love with Juliette. As a woman whose husband had an affair, I kept cheering Juliette as she discovered who she was and her willingness to try a new adventure without her husband. The discovery of the bookshop brought a smile to my lips and tears to my eyes. I strongly encourage you to pick up this book and get lost in the pages as you explore life, love, friendships, and Paris. You will appreciate every moment you spend with the characters.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!

A brilliant read and one I really enjoyed. The characters are loveable and varied, the plot is one that is engaging and medium paced. I found myself completely drawn into the story and enjoyed the writing style.