The British Booksellers

Narrated by Barrie Kreinik
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Pub Date Apr 09 2024 | Archive Date May 10 2024

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Description

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 World War II, 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.

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...


Advance Praise

“Kristy Cambron has long delighted readers with her richly textured tales of epic historical episodes and the intimate, intricate workings of the human heart. In her latest work, The British Booksellers, Cambron delivers yet again, with her powerful punch of assiduous research and skillful, lush storytelling. Sweeping across generations and both World Wars, this is a luminous ode to the soul’s deep and indelible yearning for love, hope, and truth.”—Allison Pataki, New York Times bestselling author of Finding Margaret Fuller

“With pitch-perfect prose and impeccable research, Kristy Cambron brings to life the Forgotten Blitz bombings of World War II—and shines a light on the ways in which we find hope in even the darkest moments. A testament to bravery, loss, and the power story has to unite us, The British Booksellers will steal readers’ hearts. This stunning novel is a poignant reminder of the indomitable nature of the human spirit and the enduring power of true love. Five huge stars!”—Kristy Woodson Harvey, New York Times bestselling author of The Summer of Songbirds

“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 British Booksellers.”—Erika Robuck, national bestselling author of Sisters of Night and Fog

“Set in the English countryside and spanning two wars, Kristy Cambron’s latest, The British Booksellers, is a beautiful and enlightening novel that captures the lost love and youthful dreams of two unlikely soul mates, Charlotte and Amos. Full of longing and sprinkled with literary gems, I was completely swept away with this enchanting tale.”—Nicola Harrison, author of Hotel Laguna

“Kristy Cambron has long delighted readers with her richly textured tales of epic historical episodes and the intimate, intricate workings of the human heart. In her latest work, The British...


Available Editions

EDITION Audiobook, Unabridged
ISBN 9780785232261
PRICE
DURATION 11 Hours, 18 Minutes, 7 Seconds

Available on NetGalley

NetGalley Shelf App (AUDIO)

Average rating from 98 members


Featured Reviews

A wonderful historical fiction novel that weaves its tale between WWI and the blitz raids on Coventry England. The story slowly uncovers what happened between childhood friends who fall in love but can’t be together due to class differences. A farmer was not a suitable husband for an earl’s daughter. The flashbacks between events during WWI and the present are smooth and help develop the story.

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Amos, a tenant farmer’s son, once dreamed of a future with earl’s daughter Charlotte. The Great War shattered their hopes. Scarred by the trenches, Amos returns home to open a bookshop. Now a war widow, Charlotte runs a rival bookstore. When an American solicitor threatens their future, they must set aside their differences to preserve their legacies amidst the looming danger of war and the local blitz.

I loved this book! It’s part romance, part mystery, part family saga against the backdrop of WWII. The characters are endearing, and the story engrossing. It’s fast-paced and complex, uplifting and deeply emotional. I also enjoyed the audiobook narration.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

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I'm so grateful to authors who research and study and learn about a moment or more in history and share that with us in beautiful and powerful stories! Kristy Cambron is one author that I automatically read. I love when I see that she has a new book coming out and I can't wait to dive in and experience the emotions of it all. Because let me tell you, there are so many emotions in her books. This one is one you'll want some tissues for. Especially at the author's note when she discusses some of the historical dates and facts that she based her book on. I was in tears. My heart went out to those who experience and lived through these moments. The strength they had and the resilience as they had to pick up and rebuild all while mourning and grieving and trying to process so much loss—family members, homes, belongings, friends, communities. So many emotions!

This story was so touching! Two childhood friends and their experiences as life and the people around them make decisions and cause problems that affect their friendship and relationship. The story goes between 1914 & 1940. And if you're looking at those dates and recognize what was happening you'd be correct. World War I and World War II.

Kristy Cambron weaves together a story of family and friends and community over many years. The hope and joy mixed with heartache and sorrow, loss and love. It was so beautiful! There's so much within these pages. Another story is woven in that is so touching as well. I love how everything was connected together and how the further you read into the story, the more you see and understand and will be in awe.

I listened to the audiobook of this one and loved the narrator. She did a fantastic job. The emotions she shared through her voice were touching and brought more depth to the story. As I was listening I felt like I was transported to where these characters were and to their story. I highly recommend you pick up this book, whether it is the audio or paperback or kindle version. A definite Must Read for any lovers of Historical Fiction!

Content: Clean. This book does deal with war so there is death and loss and bombing and guns. But the author did a great job being sensitive to the subject and was not overly graphic. There are some kisses but nothing further. This is a Christian Fiction book but I felt it was not overpowering with the messages but very natural for the time period and characters. Beautifully done.

I received an audiobook copy from HarperCollins Christian Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

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A big thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio and Net Galley for allowing me to listen to an advanced copy of the audio book!

Wow! I was blown away by how much I liked this book!

When I was reading the description, I thought this book would be full of drama and be a little annoying, but It was nothing like that.

The flow of the story is very enjoyable. The main characters are childhood friends turned lovers that were not allowed to be together because of their class levels. It starts off with you only knowing the basics, they like one another when they were young then the WW1 breaks out, some time passes and some how they both ended up back in the same town with rivaling book stores on the verge of WW2. You, as the reader, learn through flashbacks what happened between them and how the first war affected their lives.

Their love is tender and beautiful, and we got a secondary love story developing at the same time. I loved that in the end all main characters were connected to one another.

I do have to admit that I am a WW2 story lover, so I would understand if this book is not a cup of tea for a lot of people.
BUT I would urge romance readers to try this book because Amos and Charlotte's stories deserve to be heard.

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I had seen this book and was drawn to the beautiful cover. My actual reading time is limited, so I skipped buying the book since I am not drawn to WWII, or really any war, books.

Then a couple months later, I saw the audio was available and I changed my mind. I didn't read the blurb again. I just started listening. I was captivated.

I am not one to read wartime books because I don't like the looming possibility of someone dying. And I don't love reading books with flashbacks, because of the angst/anxiety it gives me while reading. I usually love them afterwards though. And such was the case here.

I just loved these Amos and Charlotte. Discovering about their lives, past and present, was captivating. I listened to this book in a day and a half. I didn't want to stop.

I learned a lot about little known historical events and activities. I really was glad to see that the author's notes were included in the audiobook. I wish all publishers would include them. They added to the overall experience for me.

The one issue I had with the audiobook was that it is harder for me to stay in the current time line. I have to be sure to catch the date as it's being read. And with this one I particular, I sometimes confused 1914 and 1940. The narrator's accent and perhaps my listening speed did cause slight confusion a time or two. That is a very small detail, but one I did want to mention.

I wish to thank Thomas Nelson, Zondervan fiction and Netgalley for the audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

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The British Booksellers is a sweeping work of historical fiction encompassing two world wars and concluding with the utter devastation wrought by the Coventry Blitz of WWII. I found this book extremely well written and historically accurate. It begins with two childhood friends, Lady Charlotte Terrington and her secret friendship with a local farmers son Amos Darby. They are from two different worlds and are not supposed to be friends at all. As they grow up together they fall in love but Charlotte is promised to William Harcourt and so their love cannot be realized. Both William and Amos enlist during WWI and end up serving together. After the war Amos returns home and William does not. Amos is a shadow of his former self, haunted by nightmares of the war. And even though Charlotte is now a widow she and Amos do not reunite. Charlotte is busy raising her daughter Eden and running her estate and a quaint bookshop. Amos opens a competing bookshop and they spend their years ignoring each other. When World War II begins the two former friends realize the should pool their resources to help their community survive the war and become friendly again. So much happens in this novel, it is full of excitement with the battle scenes and repeated bombings of Coventry. I really learned quite a bit about what people had to live with to survive a war in their own country. Some of it is quite harrowing. I enjoyed the authors anecdotes at the end of the novel very much, very informative. This book is perfect for fans of historical fiction, especially WWI and WWII. Highly Recommended.

Many thanks to Net Galley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Thomas Nelson Fiction for a chance to listen to an ARC audiobook of this novel.

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This is a beautiful story of love, friendship, and loyalty set in a dual timeline format that encapsulates both world wars. There are lots of ups and downs for Amos and Charlotte as they weather the Great War and the aftermath in Coventry, England. In the early days of the next war they are thrown together again during the “Forgotten Blitz” (which I was very interested to learn about through this well-researched book). These characters are vividly drawn and the shift between their lives in both wars is intriguing. Barrie Kreinik is one of my favorite narrators and I loved the way that she told this story. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. Highly recommended for lovers of WWI or WWII historical fiction set in England.

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This was a truly a great story set during both the Great War and WW2.
I love to read/listen to books about books, so I was thrilled to get this audio. The story was fantastic, telling about two unlikely childhood friends. Charlotte is an earl’s daughter whereas Amos is the tenant farmer’s son. Their dreams shatter with the start of the Great War.
This book was filled with suspense, drama and love. Based on true events of the Coventry Blitz during WW2, we see how people, even once enemies, come together to help their neighbors.
The audio was absolutely awesome. Well-made and a delight to listen to.

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The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron is a delightful work of WWII historical fiction. This book was a 5 star read for me! I have never read any books by this author before, and after reading this I will definitely go read some of her other books. The plot was well paced, the characters were well developed, and I love the dual time lines. I listened to the audiobook and the narration was also great. If you are a fan to historical fiction I can’t recommend this book enough!

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

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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.

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If there is one book I urge you to read in 2024, it is this one. Set across dual timelines of WW1 and WW2, the story revolves around Amos and Charlotte's forbidden love that was nipped at the bud. In a twist of events, written so beautifully by the author, Charlie is now a war widow, who owns a bookshop in Coventry with her headstrong daughter. Amos is a rival bookseller, reclusive and drowning his PTSD in alcohol. In the midst of air attacks by the Luftwaffe, Charlie and Amos, along with the residents of Coventry come together in mutual support, mysterious secrets are uncovered, new love is founded and old loves are reforged.

The prose and dialogues are very time appropriate, Charlie and her daughter Eden are such headstrong women, that it makes this a wonderful read.

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I had already read the book version of The British Booksellers. I really enjoyed this audiobook version as well. The narrator did a wonderful job. I l really liked this historical fiction book.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the audiobook.

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My dad, a former history teacher, is a military history junkie. When he’s watching yet another WW2 documentary, we always ask him if he forgot who won the war. But when I read something like The British Booksellers, I am reminded of just how much there is to learn that goes well beyond win and loss records. Understanding the lived experience of common citizens during war time is something that can be unpacked from infinite angles. I loved all of the angles that Cambron explored in this text—from the Land Girls to the strategic placement of support Spitfires. Her research was impeccable. She presented a broad understanding of the war effort, but she also distilled it down to a very granular level on the streets and alleys of Canterbury. I loved the element of mystery & am delighted to share that she pulled the wool right over my eyes. I have some voracious readers of historical fiction & feel certain that they will eat up every element of this text.

While I know the print version will suffice, the audio version will elevate their reading experience even more. Conveying the intensity of two world wars from deeply personal perspectives is no small feat, but she did it. She made every character come to life.

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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!

YouTube Review: 04/17/24
YouTube Handle: KeenCat

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The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron is a must read for historical fiction fans.
It is a dual timeline between WWI and WWII. One of the historical things I loved learning more about were the Land Girls and how they did what they could to help with the war effort in their home villages. And I really loved the part of the story about the Christmas Truce, December 25, 1914.
Reading how the soldiers put down their weapons, played football with the enemy, exchange cigarettes and sang Silent Night together were just a few of the miraculous things that took place during that moment in time.
There is a second chance romance between two childhood friends, Charlotte and Amos who find themselves cruelly separated by circumstances.
Then fast forward 25 years and the two are rival Coventry booksellers on the verge of another war. Charlotte, now a war widow, with a full grown daughter who is in charge of a failing estate and Amos, who is her long lost love.
I loved this story depicting the tragedy of war, of loss, love and hope all taking place with characters you grow to love and so many conversations around books in a book store!
Wonderful narration by the amazing Barrie Kreinik.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Christian Publishing for an advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

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I really like these historical books. This one is set in WW1 and WW2 and tells the story of Amos and Charlotte. I really liked the interactions and how the real stories where ingrained in the story. It was really telling and is a great read.

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We glimpse a friendship between Amos and Charlotte from 1908 and follow their stories jumping between 1913/1914 and 1940 during the wars and their ever complicated love story. Charlotte was such a lovely character as well as her daughter Eden. I feel like both were so easy to like and feel empathy for during their own internal battles. Amos is honestly one of my favorite characters from this book. Such a genuine and caring individual from the very first chapter. I loved getting to know his character and also felt so much heartbreak for him. There were plenty of characters who surprised me in how much they were not as they were originally portrayed, which I really enjoyed. The way the book weaved perfectly into each chapter was incredible. Getting little bits and pieces that perfectly get explained within the next chapter in another time period was probably one of my favorite parts of the book. Especially the end, everything gets tied up perfectly with a ribbon—well done!

For the historical aspect of this historical romance book, I loved that there was a lot of well written and a lot of “forgotten” history written into this story. The book was centered around the Leicester Blitz and all that happened leading up to it. The author’s note was very informative and I loved that it was all written into the book.

This book was so entertaining, heartwarming and heartbreaking, and just so well written. I loved the writing style and never had any issues with the timeline.

Last but not least, for the narration of this book, I really enjoyed the pick. Barrie Kreinik had the perfect voice and tone throughout the book to keep me fully immersed in the story.

Wrapped up, I absolutely loved this book and could not stop listening while simultaneously never wanting it to end.

Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins, and Kristy Cambron for the audiobook.

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Edit; I read this amazing story and then listened to it audibly. These are my thoughts on the Audible version. I absolutely loved it. The narrator did a fantastic job. It was like watching a movie in my minds eye as she performed the narration. She handled each character masterfully and brought the book to life for me each word at a time. Well done!!

“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.

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The story itself is just incredible. My heart wept and grieved for what was lost and soared for this second-chance love story that takes place across two timelines. Amos and Charlie’s (Lady Charlotte) story is full of longing, bravery, and heartache. These two were secret childhood friends, who didn’t let the difference in their stations stop their affections from growing. But life and society expectancy did their best to thwart their dreams at every turn, and just as they hoped to make their escape for their love, the Great War ripped them apart. Now 25 years later and another war to face, Amos and Charlotte are at odds as competing bookshop sellers. Charlotte is a war widow and has a grown daughter, while Amos seems intent on staying a grumpy hermit. With the Germans blitzing Coventry nearly daily, Amos and Charlotte must come together to help their community through, and maybe find that their love can bloom again.

I particularly loved the way the author, Kristy Cambron, wove the past and present together. It’s like looking through an old family photo album and hearing all the stories behind the pictures. While the book is mainly about Amos and Charlie, it’s also about Eden, Charlotte’s daughter, and a mysterious American solicitor who threatens everything she holds dear.

The audio narration was magnificent. Barrie Kreinik has a melodic voice and draws you into the story. Many thanks to @kristycambron @austenprose and @thomasnelson for the physical copy of the book and for having me be apart of this tour. Also thanks to @netgalley and publisher for the early audio copy to listen to in exchange for my review.

My friends read this book if you love:
📖 Great War & WWII setting
📖 Downton Abbey/ Upstairs Downstairs/ You’ve Got Mail vibes
📖 Slow Burn/Enduring Love
📖 Rich Historical Details

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"You carry an emergency book?
""Doesn't everyone?" She shrugged. ..."Books were as necessary to us as oxygen."

There were so many elements to this novel that made it such an enjoyable read. The dual timeline is split between WWI with a forbidden romance involving an earl's daughter Charlotte, and a farmer's son Amos, and WW2 with the same couple competing against each other as booksellers. It's a novel of second chance romance for two people who think a chance for happiness has been stolen from them by social expectations, war, and past mistakes. The very worst happens when the Nazis target their town of Coventry, but its this tragedy that makes them realize how precious life and love are. This was such an enjoyable read! I appreciated the author setting the novel in Coventry, as I was not familiar with the devastation of the blitz that occurred there.

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Title: The British Booksellers
Author: Kristy Cambron
Narrated by: Barrie Kreinik
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Length: Approximately 11 hours and 18 minutes
Source: Thank-you to NetGalley for the audiobook review copy. Thank-you Thomas Nelson and Austenprose for the review copy of the physical book.

Do you like to read books about bookstores or libraries? I love to visit both, and I enjoy reading books about them.

The British Booksellers is a dual timeline novel set during WWI and WWII. In the pre-WWI timeline, there is a love triangle. Amos Darby is a farmer’s son and is in love with Charlotte Terrington, an heiress. Will Holt is the Earl’s son and also in love with Charlotte. Charlotte has been promised in marriage to Will, but what happened to her relationship with Amos? What happened to Will? In the WWII era, Charlotte and her daughter Eden ran a bookshop in Coventry. Across the street is their bitter rival, Amos Darby and his bookshop. When a mysterious American comes to town with a legal case against Eden, will all the secrets of the past come out?

My thoughts on this novel:
• I really enjoyed the dual timeline and how they perfectly went together. The events of the past were finally revealed at the end of the WWII era to explain what was happening at the time.

• The story was told through multiple points of view.

• It was interesting how the trauma of WWI (the Great War) had ripple effects that impacted the next generation that were then at the forefront of WWII. It’s always said to me that there was not any help for soldiers who suffered from PTSD.

• The Coventry blitz was devastating. Afterwards, the Germans termed a new term in modern warfare: Coventrieren which means “to devastate or raze a city to the ground.”

• The build-up to the blitz was also nail-biting as bombs started to fall, the finding of hidden German paratrooper gear, and questions on whether the American lawyer is really an American or a German spy.

• I liked the addition of the land girls to the story and how they came to town to help run the Holt estate.

• I really enjoyed the characters in this novel. I particularly enjoyed that when I thought a character was not a good person like WWII era Amos, or WWI era Will, the story grew deeper, and more complex as you learned more about each person and that there was more to them than met the eye.

• This story was also about forgiveness, second chances, and moving forward with life after a devastating occurrence.

• It was interesting how the differences between classes was strict before WWI, but had eased by the time of WWII.

• I listened to this book on audiobook. Barrie Kreinik was a wonderful narrator, and I especially enjoyed the voice acting.

• I enjoyed that this novel had both a second chance romance as well as an enemies to lovers romance.

• This novel was a clean read.

• Author Kristy Cambron included a great author’s note that explained her inspirations and the real history behind this novel.

Overall, The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron is a compelling historical fiction novel with engaging characters and a great dual timeline plot. I highly recommend it.

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Historical Fiction at its best. Travel back between 1914 and 1940, before WW1 and during WW2 in England. How do lives on an Estate change through these wars. The setting of a bookshop drew me to this book and the characters have a deep love of books but the main part of the story is how lives are changed due to class and war. The narrator did a great job. The characters were flawed and believable. I would highly recommend this book to those interested in WW2 or historical fiction with a bit of romance thrown in.

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Giving this book a neutral rating. I was not able to get through it. It just didn’t grab my attention, but I also only got about 10% of the way in before giving up. I may try again in the future, but did not start off interesting enough for me to continue at this time.

I am going to leave my original review above, but continue here with an update. I am a mood reader, and the first time I picked up this book, I just wasn't feeling it. However, I was given an audio ARC a few weeks later, and upon listening to the book in full, I can happily update that I give this book 5 stars. The story is absolutely heart warming and once I started listening, I couldn't stop - I finished this book in one day. My heart hurt at so many places, especially for Will of all characters, but in the end, I was happily surprised with how everything worked out. The author wove the perfect threads of connection from the very beginning. I highly recommend this book if you like historical romances that are suspenseful in light ways.

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I haven't read a Kristy Cambron novel in a few years, but I know when you read historical fiction by her, you're sure to get an amazing story, and The British Booksellers did not disappoint! A dual timeline story set in WWI and WWII, I quickly became invested in the characters, and I grew to love them. The audiobook narrator did a great job. For audios, I write down the dates and characters of the two timelines so I can easily follow the story.

I highly recommend you check out Kristy's blog for the historical background of this novel!

I received this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
#netgalley #TheBritishBooksellers

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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.

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I have always been a fan of historical fiction, add this era and swoon! Inspired by true accounts, Guernsey Literary Potato Peal Society vibes! Pick this book up!

Thank you for the audio version NetGalley and McMillan!

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Expertly written and heart wrenching, to say the least. This was a fairly complicated story- the audio narration is excellent but I will suggest that keeping a physical copy on hand will really help follow the timeline. I loved the two previous KC books I’ve read (The Hidden Masterpiece Collection) but this one was far more complicated (in a good way) as well as insightful.
#TheBritishBooksellers #NetGalley

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This is a wonderfully performed audiobook! The various voices are distinctive and I love the authenticity of the accents. I was able to listen comfortably at 1.25 & 1.5 speed.
If you enjoy historical fiction I recommend The British Booksellers!

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"The British Booksellers" is a heartwarming story of love, and unrequited love. It is set in a time after WWI( and just before and during WWI.I. The story line is interesting and well written. The narrator does a great job. I highly recommend this book.

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Kristy Cambron's latest The British Booksellers was my first book by her but will not be my last. This story was highly engaging, I wanted to know how all the pieces fit together for the characters throughout the book. The main characters had depth as they struggled to overcome class distinctions, a changing world, and war. The audio was a pleasure to listen to. It had just enough historical content to make it feel as if it was a real story. I loved that it focused on an event during WWII not often talked about in history books. Also the dual narrative that included both world wars really brought to light the challenging times people lived through in the fist half of the 1900s. Highly recommend!

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This book weaves in multiple characters and stories from different time periods. The first time period is the Great War and the second is World War 2. Sometimes switching time periods and characters can be confusing, especially in an audiobook, but this was so well done that I didn’t get confused at all.

I loved the complicated, sometimes painful relationships in this story. It was complicated, beautiful, and downright messy human relationships. I also loved wanting answers and saving each answer that came. It was so beautifully written and crafted to keep me wanting more and loving the characters more. I just wanted them to be happy and have answers!

It also was wonderful that the main characters loved books. How relatable is that to a book lover? Absolutely loved this one and would read it again.

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This story was extremely immersive and engaging, and the narrator excellent. Cambron set the scene, wove the story elements together, and kept me guessing expertly from beginning to end. Amos, Charlotte, Eden, and Jacob - and their worlds of war and Coventry, England - will live on in my heart for a long time after I finish this story. Recommended especially for Anglophiles, bibliophiles, and lovers of hard situations with redemption.

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"The British Booksellers" by Kristy Cambron, narrated by Barrie Kreinik, is a captivating tale that combines historical fiction, sweet romance, and mystery. Set against the backdrop of WWI and WWII, this novel weaves together multiple points of view to tell a story of courage and resilience in the face of war.

The characters in "The British Booksellers" are well-developed, authentic, and sympathetic. From Amos Darby's struggles as a war veteran to Charlotte Terrington's journey as a war widow turned bookshop owner, each character brings depth and emotion to the narrative. The relationships between the characters are intricately portrayed, adding layers of complexity to their interactions.

The story follows Amos Darby and Charlotte Terrington as they navigate love, loss, and the challenges brought on by war. As they come together to fight for their bookshops amidst the devastation of the Coventry Blitz during WWII, themes of perseverance, friendship, and sacrifice emerge. The blend of historical events with personal stories creates a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged until the very end.

Barrie Kreinik's narration adds another dimension to the storytelling with her versatile portrayal of various characters. Her ability to bring each character to life enhances the listener's experience and immerses them in the world created by Kristy Cambron.

"The British Booksellers" is a poignant tale that highlights the enduring power of love and literature in times of turmoil. Through its richly drawn characters and evocative storytelling, this novel offers readers a glimpse into lives forever changed by war—and ultimately celebrates the strength found in unity during challenging times.

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Woe a phenomenal story of second chance romance set during the Nazi blitz.

Amos and Charlotte form an attachment that nevers see the light when the Great war looms and changes their life.

Now back from the war, deeply scarred both in and out, Amos and Charlotte own bookshops that are across from each other. When the Nazi airbombing starts, it brings them together with a common goal of protecting those in their small town.

Underlying all the heartache, mysteries and lives is the Earl of Harcourt and how his actions change the paths of those around him.

This book was so well read by Barry Kreinik, the poignant, emotions and romance were well done.

Simply amazing book, glad I change my mind and decided to listen to it.

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The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron and narrated by Barrie Kreinik was a wonderful novel that, while about WW2, it was a fresh story. One of the differences is that this is both an Historical Fiction and a Romance. The aspects that dealt with the war, taught me things I have not ever read before and I always appreciate that.
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I loved the character development in this story! I lay in bed after finishing and pondered the incredible growth the two primary men in this story had achieved. There was so much honor and valor shown. There was hope and redemption. There was such a wonderful ending. I loved this book so much!
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The audiobook was phenomenal! I honestly thought there were two narrators, one for the female characters and one for the male, but no, one person did all the voices and she must have incredible range! I was so glad I had a physical book to go along with the audio. This book jumps timelines and locations, frequently, and even within a chapter. Once I was about 1/3 of the way in, with an immersive read, I could keep the audio straight without the book. I still wanted the book nearby, because there were so many places I wanted to tab. This book was so riveting that I was delighted to have more chores to do so that I could keep listening!
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I am so thrilled I bought this book because it needs to be on my forever shelf!
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Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Christian Publishing for the ALC. All opinions are my own.

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Dueling booksellers, historical fiction, WWI and WWII, and Barrie Kreinik narrating. I just had to read it. It took me away to a different time. When they put aside their differences to assist their city during the Blitz, I was enthralled.

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