The Bookseller’s Daughter

Deborah Carr's "Mrs Boots" is an inspiring story that shows how one woman yearned for more and grabbed her chance at both love and a new life. Carr fleshes out the captivating Florence Rowe and the struggles she faced in a time when women were not allowed to dream and before her husband's business empire was built. Watch this author--this is a series you'll want to stick with.

Mrs Boots is book one in a new historical series inspired by Florence Boot, the woman behind the Boots empire. I devoured this story, it was so captivating, interesting and beautifully romantic. Florence is a headstrong young woman who wants to help those in need. She never wanted to marry but when she met Jesse Boot, the son of the founder of Boots the chemist, she found a kindred spirit with him. However, their friendship was frowned upon by her family. Her mother in particular made her opinions quite clear and as a mother myself I could see her point of view but I also knew to stop the power of love is impossible.

Deborah Carr's words took me to an era were social etiquette was prevalent, religion and belief were very strong and the beliefs of Florence's mother were true to her character and faith. The atmosphere of the storyline was perfect, I could sense a time and place. Hearing about the life in the stationery shop in Jersey sounded wonderful and it brought back pangs of nostalgia of visiting small independent shops receiving personal customer service with my grandparents. Just hearing that shop bell indicating a new customer brings back pangs of warm, fuzzy emotions.

The budding friendship between Jesse Boot and Florence was lovely, especially as it took Florence by surprise how her feelings soon changed.

When you start a new book series and so wish the other instalments were instantly available to enable you to binge read them all; this is how I felt about Mrs Boots. As soon as I finished reading I felt compelled to research both Jesse and Florence Boot and the legacy they've left behind is inspiring.

A gorgeous start to a new historical series that captivated, charmed and inspired me.