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The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris
From an exciting new voice in WWII historical fiction—and the author of The Clockmaker’s Wife—comes a tale of love and a betrayal that echoes through generations…
Paris, 1940: War is closing in on the city of love. With his wife forced into hiding, Jacques must stand by and watch as the Nazis take away everything he holds dear. Everything except his last beacon of hope: his beloved bookshop, La Page Cachée.
But when a young woman and her child knock on his door one night and beg for refuge, he knows his only option is to risk it all once more to save a life…
Modern day: Juliette and her husband have finally made it to France on the romantic getaway of her dreams—but as the days pass, all she discovers is quite how far they’ve grown apart. She’s craving a new adventure, so when she happens across a tiny, abandoned shop with a for-sale sign in the window, it feels fated.
And she’s about to learn that the forgotten bookshop hides a lot more than meets the eye…
A heartbreaking tale of love and loss in war, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Rachel Hore.
Paris, 1940: War is closing in on the city of love. With his wife forced into hiding, Jacques must stand by and watch as the Nazis take away everything he holds dear. Everything except his last beacon of hope: his beloved bookshop, La Page Cachée.
But when a young woman and her child knock on his door one night and beg for refuge, he knows his only option is to risk it all once more to save a life…
Modern day: Juliette and her husband have finally made it to France on the romantic getaway of her dreams—but as the days pass, all she discovers is quite how far they’ve grown apart. She’s craving a new adventure, so when she happens across a tiny, abandoned shop with a for-sale sign in the window, it feels fated.
And she’s about to learn that the forgotten bookshop hides a lot more than meets the eye…
A heartbreaking tale of love and loss in war, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Rachel Hore.
367 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,034 reviews
October 17, 2022
It was Paris in 1940 and Jacques and Mathilde were just feeling the horrors of war. The Germans had taken over the city and no one was safe. Jacques had decided to continue to trade in his beloved little bookshop - La Page Cachée - while Mathilde worked at the nearby art gallery. As danger came closer, Jacques farewelled Mathilde, vowing to meet in a little spot on the day of their wedding anniversary each year. Mathilde would be safe and Jacques would be helping in the war effort, using the secret room in his bookshop to hide people who were escaping across the borders.
It was 2022 when Juliette and Andrew arrived in Paris for a holiday from the US. Juliette's grandmother had been born in the city of love and lived through the war years, although she wouldn't talk about it before she died. The painting which had been such a big part of her life was now Juliette's and she was determined to find the little square depicted. After Juliette discovered a hidden secret, Andrew returned to the US, leaving Juliette to search for her roots - that history was to be a big part of her life, especially when she found a derelict old store for sale, in the square she'd been drawn to. Juliette decided to renovate and re-open the old store, calling it The Forgotten Bookshop
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is another wonderful, heartwarming but heartbreaking historical novel by Daisy Wood which I loved. Set in two timeframes, both were equally devoted to the stories, and they came together beautifully. Often I enjoy one timeframe more than the other, but in this case I thoroughly enjoyed both. This is only my second novel by this author, and I'll be looking at her others. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK, for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
It was 2022 when Juliette and Andrew arrived in Paris for a holiday from the US. Juliette's grandmother had been born in the city of love and lived through the war years, although she wouldn't talk about it before she died. The painting which had been such a big part of her life was now Juliette's and she was determined to find the little square depicted. After Juliette discovered a hidden secret, Andrew returned to the US, leaving Juliette to search for her roots - that history was to be a big part of her life, especially when she found a derelict old store for sale, in the square she'd been drawn to. Juliette decided to renovate and re-open the old store, calling it The Forgotten Bookshop
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is another wonderful, heartwarming but heartbreaking historical novel by Daisy Wood which I loved. Set in two timeframes, both were equally devoted to the stories, and they came together beautifully. Often I enjoy one timeframe more than the other, but in this case I thoroughly enjoyed both. This is only my second novel by this author, and I'll be looking at her others. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK, for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2022
What fun to bring a bookstore from WWII back to life.
Juliette and her husband’s trip to Paris ended in their separation, but it turned out to be a new start for Juliette.
Juliette needed a place to stay and found an apartment above a bookstore and decided to restore the bookstore even though a friend’s grandmother ZiZi who is 97 told her to not dig up the past.
Could this be the same apartment and bookstore that Jacques had owned during WWII?
Yes it is…Jacques and his wife lived in that very apartment above the bookshop while Jacques kept the peace with the Germans by selling books to an officer, but his wife Mathilde was in the resistance and got herself in trouble.
The bookstore sounded lovely and had a hidden room and lots of other secrets...will Juliette find out these secrets?
THE FORGOTTEN BOOKSHOP IN PARIS goes from 1940 to present day.
I always enjoy when there are connections from the past and present.
Could there be a connection between the bookshop and the characters from 1940 and 2022?
A lovely read that has some romance, mystery, history, and a chance to enjoy the city of lights both past and present.
Truly enjoyable for historical fiction fans and women's fiction fans. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Juliette and her husband’s trip to Paris ended in their separation, but it turned out to be a new start for Juliette.
Juliette needed a place to stay and found an apartment above a bookstore and decided to restore the bookstore even though a friend’s grandmother ZiZi who is 97 told her to not dig up the past.
Could this be the same apartment and bookstore that Jacques had owned during WWII?
Yes it is…Jacques and his wife lived in that very apartment above the bookshop while Jacques kept the peace with the Germans by selling books to an officer, but his wife Mathilde was in the resistance and got herself in trouble.
The bookstore sounded lovely and had a hidden room and lots of other secrets...will Juliette find out these secrets?
THE FORGOTTEN BOOKSHOP IN PARIS goes from 1940 to present day.
I always enjoy when there are connections from the past and present.
Could there be a connection between the bookshop and the characters from 1940 and 2022?
A lovely read that has some romance, mystery, history, and a chance to enjoy the city of lights both past and present.
Truly enjoyable for historical fiction fans and women's fiction fans. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
August 22, 2022
Jacques and Mathilde have only been married a short time when the Germans invaded Paris. Jacques owns a bookshop called la page cachée and Mathilde works at a museum. The war drags on, Mathilde loses her job, Jacques still earns a living selling novels, guidebooks and postcards.
The couple live in an apartment a couple of floors above the bookshop, under the close scrutiny of Madame Bourdain and they don’t know if they can trust her? Mathilde finds living under German occupation difficult, the Gestapo are watching her movements and she has to flee Paris.
Jacques created a secret room in his shop before the war started, and here he conceals a box of banned books. After Mathilde leaves, he begins helping the resistance, he hides boxes, supplies, people and eventually Jewish children. He desperately hopes Mathilde is safe in the countryside, he can’t contact her and they made plans of where to meet after the war ends.
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris has a dual timeline it’s set in the city of lights during the 1940's and in present time, and it's told from the two main characters points of view.
Juliette and her husband Kevin have traveled from America to France for a much needed holiday. Juliette’s grandmother Marie was French and she moved to America after the end of the Second World War. Kevin can’t wait to return home, Juliette discovers why, she decides to stay in Paris and investigate her grandmothers mysterious past.
Juliette grandmother had a picture of a square in Paris and she explores the Parisian streets and cafes trying to find it. Juliette becomes friends with a French couple, she discovers an abandoned bookshop, and she decides to stay in France. Juliette falls in love with The Hidden Page, she sets about renovating the old bookshop and she uncovers hidden secrets from the past.
I received a copy of The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris from NetGalley and Avon Books UK in exchange for an honest review. Daisy Wood flawlessly combines the past and the present in a wonderful and well written dual timeline narrative. Both Jacques, Mathilde, and Juliette are appealing characters, I really enjoyed reading about their connection and it’s a story about war, love, loss, betrayal, rebellion, defiance, hardship, secrets, greed, and fate. Five stars from me, I highly recommend this book and the author’s previous historical fiction novel, The Clockmaker’s Wife.
The couple live in an apartment a couple of floors above the bookshop, under the close scrutiny of Madame Bourdain and they don’t know if they can trust her? Mathilde finds living under German occupation difficult, the Gestapo are watching her movements and she has to flee Paris.
Jacques created a secret room in his shop before the war started, and here he conceals a box of banned books. After Mathilde leaves, he begins helping the resistance, he hides boxes, supplies, people and eventually Jewish children. He desperately hopes Mathilde is safe in the countryside, he can’t contact her and they made plans of where to meet after the war ends.
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris has a dual timeline it’s set in the city of lights during the 1940's and in present time, and it's told from the two main characters points of view.
Juliette and her husband Kevin have traveled from America to France for a much needed holiday. Juliette’s grandmother Marie was French and she moved to America after the end of the Second World War. Kevin can’t wait to return home, Juliette discovers why, she decides to stay in Paris and investigate her grandmothers mysterious past.
Juliette grandmother had a picture of a square in Paris and she explores the Parisian streets and cafes trying to find it. Juliette becomes friends with a French couple, she discovers an abandoned bookshop, and she decides to stay in France. Juliette falls in love with The Hidden Page, she sets about renovating the old bookshop and she uncovers hidden secrets from the past.
I received a copy of The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris from NetGalley and Avon Books UK in exchange for an honest review. Daisy Wood flawlessly combines the past and the present in a wonderful and well written dual timeline narrative. Both Jacques, Mathilde, and Juliette are appealing characters, I really enjoyed reading about their connection and it’s a story about war, love, loss, betrayal, rebellion, defiance, hardship, secrets, greed, and fate. Five stars from me, I highly recommend this book and the author’s previous historical fiction novel, The Clockmaker’s Wife.
December 21, 2022
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris by Daisy Wood
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved the story, the characters and everything about a bookstore. The story goes back and forth between 1940 and the present day in France. It’s all about a broken marriage, healing, romance and well researched history.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved the story, the characters and everything about a bookstore. The story goes back and forth between 1940 and the present day in France. It’s all about a broken marriage, healing, romance and well researched history.
December 29, 2022
When I first picked this up I thought , not another WW2 story but once I got started I found myself involved in the dual storylines. One is current about Juliette, an American on holiday in Paris with her husband who she’s just discovered is having an affair. As her children are adults she decides to stay on in Paris when her husband returns home. The historical timeline is set in Paris during WW2 and follows Jacques and his wife Mathilde. Jacques runs a bookshop and both become involved in the resistance.
I enjoyed both parts of the novel. The romance between Juliette and Nico is probably a bit obvious and unnecessary but I did think the bringing together of the past and present was well done as it fell together in a neat ending. My second book by Daisy Wood and another good read.
I enjoyed both parts of the novel. The romance between Juliette and Nico is probably a bit obvious and unnecessary but I did think the bringing together of the past and present was well done as it fell together in a neat ending. My second book by Daisy Wood and another good read.
February 20, 2023
3.5 / 4 star rating
I have to say that I was very disappointed in this book. I've heard so many good things about it and maybe it's just me, but I was getting confused with all the characters & names mainly in the present timeline of 2022. I usually really enjoy duel timeline stories but this one fell short and honestly I couldn't wait to get done.
The past in 1941-1945 was fantastic!!! It tells the story of Jacques & Mathilda Duval. They were married at the beginning of WW2 and very much in love! She was adventurous and a bit reckless which wasn't good back then. This behavior eventually got her arrested and imprisoned. Jacques was a quiet man who ran a bookshop called " La Page Cachee'" ( French for The Hidden Page...I love the name!) As the war went on, Jacques hid books from the Otto list in a hidden room in the bookshop. He joined The Resistance,hid adults and eventually children! I really admired Jacques. So kind in a time of such cruelty 💕 There's a beautiful prayer that Jacques learned a child and said it often throughout his life,even as he was being arrested! He said " Father, I give myself up to You, do with me as You will. I am ready for everything, I accept everything." What faith and strength!! 🙏
If the author only wrote about the past, this book would have been fantastic...all this section made sense and was beautifully written.
2022 is about Juliette,her husband Kevin who went to France. She found out that he wasn't the same man she married. He left and went back to America while Juliette stayed to make a new life for herself. Her Grandma was from France and Juliette was digging into her family history,made new friends and she was trying to find a place her Grandma kept a painting of. From here,it got very confusing and sloppy. I'm still lost & I finished this book on Saturday!
If this book is on your reading list, please read it and I really hope that you'll find things that I possibly missed! I hope that you'll enjoy it more than I did 😊 As for me, on to better books: The Lindberg Nanny & The Book Spy!!!!
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨📚
I have to say that I was very disappointed in this book. I've heard so many good things about it and maybe it's just me, but I was getting confused with all the characters & names mainly in the present timeline of 2022. I usually really enjoy duel timeline stories but this one fell short and honestly I couldn't wait to get done.
The past in 1941-1945 was fantastic!!! It tells the story of Jacques & Mathilda Duval. They were married at the beginning of WW2 and very much in love! She was adventurous and a bit reckless which wasn't good back then. This behavior eventually got her arrested and imprisoned. Jacques was a quiet man who ran a bookshop called " La Page Cachee'" ( French for The Hidden Page...I love the name!) As the war went on, Jacques hid books from the Otto list in a hidden room in the bookshop. He joined The Resistance,hid adults and eventually children! I really admired Jacques. So kind in a time of such cruelty 💕 There's a beautiful prayer that Jacques learned a child and said it often throughout his life,even as he was being arrested! He said " Father, I give myself up to You, do with me as You will. I am ready for everything, I accept everything." What faith and strength!! 🙏
If the author only wrote about the past, this book would have been fantastic...all this section made sense and was beautifully written.
2022 is about Juliette,her husband Kevin who went to France. She found out that he wasn't the same man she married. He left and went back to America while Juliette stayed to make a new life for herself. Her Grandma was from France and Juliette was digging into her family history,made new friends and she was trying to find a place her Grandma kept a painting of. From here,it got very confusing and sloppy. I'm still lost & I finished this book on Saturday!
If this book is on your reading list, please read it and I really hope that you'll find things that I possibly missed! I hope that you'll enjoy it more than I did 😊 As for me, on to better books: The Lindberg Nanny & The Book Spy!!!!
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫✨📚
May 25, 2024
3.5 stars…enjoyed the story but felt it was very similar to another well known historical fiction novel. But an enjoyable read with lovely characters and ties to the past.
February 21, 2023
3.5 stars
June 29, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for this opportunity.
This is a beautiful read that is set in two time zones of 1940 after the invasion of France and present day with Juliette and husband Kevin.
Present day, Juliette at long last has managed to get Kevin to Paris, the money for this trip has come from her mother's estate. Juliette is in her element however, sadly, Kevin doesn't share her enthusiasm and would rather be at home at his country club and with their friends. When Juliette suggests anything like a real French experience Kevin isn't at all interested. While he is showering in readiness to go out to have a meal, one he can recognise and at a posh restaurant a call comes through on his mobile which is answered by Juliette who with some recall and investigation realises that her husband of twenty-five years has a secret for which now she has just been alerted to. Amazingly calm; fifteen minutes before their airport taxi arrives the following morning she drops the bombshell, typical though, he turns it round to make out it's all her fault! Just like Kevin to do this, a pompous self indulgent man. Juliette suggests he return back home alone while she stays in Paris to continue her lifelong wanted experience. Kevin just can't compute this decision for Juliette has been a compliant wife, not one to make waves and now he's hit with this!
Juliette has a copy of a scene of a painting that had been in her family's home and her desire is to find out the history behind the painting.
It's 1940 Jacques and Mathilde, married just one year are celebrating at a restaurant when two Nazi officers walk in. Much to the dismay of Jacques he realises he knows one of them, who in turn recognises Mathilde from the museum where she works, Herr Schmidt. They are in a difficult situation but manage to leave into the now blacked out streets of Paris.
Jacques has a bookshop and during its renovation he had designed a secret hide hold, a tiny room. Herr Schmidt is a regular customer, a man with a keen interest in collectable books for which Jacques is able to supply, unbeknown to the German from an unlikely source. This is very dangerous for Jacques who also hides banned books in his basement.
The occupation continues and the couple witness atrocities to their fellow Parisians, Mathilde is determined to become involved with any sort of resistance. However, after she is taken in by the Police and brought home by Herr Schmidt, he makes it perfectly clear that she leave Paris and for which he has arranged a pass. As things turn out the couple are already hiding a woman in the secret room and it's decided for Mathilde to take her on the train south with her. Jacques stays in Paris to look after his ailing mother as well as running his bookshop.
Jacques is no hero, he has had a constrained lonely upbringing enduring recurring illness. He fell in love at first sight with Mathilde and was surprised that she felt the same way. However, this inept bookshop owner surprises himself when only after a short time he begins to understand Mathilde's need not to be a passive spectator but to be proactive in resistance and he puts aside his fears and becomes a man of real compassion and great bravery.
All the events of 1940 with this young couple become intertwined with present day Juliette's search that leads to an extraordinary discovery regarding her family's French history.
This is a beautiful read that is set in two time zones of 1940 after the invasion of France and present day with Juliette and husband Kevin.
Present day, Juliette at long last has managed to get Kevin to Paris, the money for this trip has come from her mother's estate. Juliette is in her element however, sadly, Kevin doesn't share her enthusiasm and would rather be at home at his country club and with their friends. When Juliette suggests anything like a real French experience Kevin isn't at all interested. While he is showering in readiness to go out to have a meal, one he can recognise and at a posh restaurant a call comes through on his mobile which is answered by Juliette who with some recall and investigation realises that her husband of twenty-five years has a secret for which now she has just been alerted to. Amazingly calm; fifteen minutes before their airport taxi arrives the following morning she drops the bombshell, typical though, he turns it round to make out it's all her fault! Just like Kevin to do this, a pompous self indulgent man. Juliette suggests he return back home alone while she stays in Paris to continue her lifelong wanted experience. Kevin just can't compute this decision for Juliette has been a compliant wife, not one to make waves and now he's hit with this!
Juliette has a copy of a scene of a painting that had been in her family's home and her desire is to find out the history behind the painting.
It's 1940 Jacques and Mathilde, married just one year are celebrating at a restaurant when two Nazi officers walk in. Much to the dismay of Jacques he realises he knows one of them, who in turn recognises Mathilde from the museum where she works, Herr Schmidt. They are in a difficult situation but manage to leave into the now blacked out streets of Paris.
Jacques has a bookshop and during its renovation he had designed a secret hide hold, a tiny room. Herr Schmidt is a regular customer, a man with a keen interest in collectable books for which Jacques is able to supply, unbeknown to the German from an unlikely source. This is very dangerous for Jacques who also hides banned books in his basement.
The occupation continues and the couple witness atrocities to their fellow Parisians, Mathilde is determined to become involved with any sort of resistance. However, after she is taken in by the Police and brought home by Herr Schmidt, he makes it perfectly clear that she leave Paris and for which he has arranged a pass. As things turn out the couple are already hiding a woman in the secret room and it's decided for Mathilde to take her on the train south with her. Jacques stays in Paris to look after his ailing mother as well as running his bookshop.
Jacques is no hero, he has had a constrained lonely upbringing enduring recurring illness. He fell in love at first sight with Mathilde and was surprised that she felt the same way. However, this inept bookshop owner surprises himself when only after a short time he begins to understand Mathilde's need not to be a passive spectator but to be proactive in resistance and he puts aside his fears and becomes a man of real compassion and great bravery.
All the events of 1940 with this young couple become intertwined with present day Juliette's search that leads to an extraordinary discovery regarding her family's French history.
October 4, 2022
The forgotten bookshop in Paris by Daisy Wood
Juliette and Kevin are on holiday in Paris from the USA. Juliette is half French and wants to find the square that has been drawn in her late mothers painting, that she kept on her wall for so many years. But things don’t go to plan with the holiday in the city of love. Her Husband Kevin decides that he wants to stop short the holiday and go home but Juliette has other ideas and when she finds out that her husband ha been having an affair, she decides that she wants to stay on in Paris.
She finds an apartment above a Bookshop, and she decides that she wants to restore the shop and sell books again against the owners 97-year-old Grandmothers wishes. She doesn’t want the past to be dug up.
Paris 1940 Jacques and Mathilde gets married just as WW2 breaks out. They live in an apartment above a bookstore. Mathilde works for a museum but also the resistance. She decides to leave Paris and help an Englishwoman too safety, but Jacques decides to stay in Paris and sells books to the Germans, hoping that one day Mathilde with return to him. Jacques finds a secret room in the Bookshop, so he does his bit for the war and hides jews and children that would be otherwise get caught by the Gestapo.
Thank you, Avon, for a copy of The forgotten Bookshop by Daisy Wood. This is my first book from the author, and it won’t be my last. Although this is a work of fiction it is said by the author that this story contains true facts. This is a dual timeline story in Paris 1940 and present day. For me personally, I enjoyed Jacque’s journey more than the present timeline. I found it more interesting. I didn’t much care for Juliette and her relationship with Nico. I just wanted more of the previous storyline. And I found this different and a unique story to other books I have read similar to this one. 4 stars from me.
Juliette and Kevin are on holiday in Paris from the USA. Juliette is half French and wants to find the square that has been drawn in her late mothers painting, that she kept on her wall for so many years. But things don’t go to plan with the holiday in the city of love. Her Husband Kevin decides that he wants to stop short the holiday and go home but Juliette has other ideas and when she finds out that her husband ha been having an affair, she decides that she wants to stay on in Paris.
She finds an apartment above a Bookshop, and she decides that she wants to restore the shop and sell books again against the owners 97-year-old Grandmothers wishes. She doesn’t want the past to be dug up.
Paris 1940 Jacques and Mathilde gets married just as WW2 breaks out. They live in an apartment above a bookstore. Mathilde works for a museum but also the resistance. She decides to leave Paris and help an Englishwoman too safety, but Jacques decides to stay in Paris and sells books to the Germans, hoping that one day Mathilde with return to him. Jacques finds a secret room in the Bookshop, so he does his bit for the war and hides jews and children that would be otherwise get caught by the Gestapo.
Thank you, Avon, for a copy of The forgotten Bookshop by Daisy Wood. This is my first book from the author, and it won’t be my last. Although this is a work of fiction it is said by the author that this story contains true facts. This is a dual timeline story in Paris 1940 and present day. For me personally, I enjoyed Jacque’s journey more than the present timeline. I found it more interesting. I didn’t much care for Juliette and her relationship with Nico. I just wanted more of the previous storyline. And I found this different and a unique story to other books I have read similar to this one. 4 stars from me.
September 26, 2022
While it bothers me to read about a woman whining about an unfaithful husband and an unhappy marriage, I was relieved to hear that this author created a strong female who stood her ground and did something about it; albeit a rather unrealistic ‘move’ and ‘ending.’
I absolutely loved the 1940s timeline and could have appreciated it as a stand-alone. The characters were wonderful, the shop, its name, the magic it held, and the wartime setting pulled me in and I resented having to flip forward to the modern timeline. I felt the modern-day tie-in with its cliched romance lessened the impact of a beautiful story. I think it boils down to the fact that I felt Juliette needed to be reigned in a little. Her brash moves irritated me as much as they irritated the locals. I think it also could have been that the relationships in both timelines were polar opposites, emphasising Juliette’s unhappy marriage and fling. Likewise, Kevin repulsed me. I couldn’t stand the man. I wonder if there could have been a different reason she found herself in Paris and alone. Did it have to be an unhappy marriage? Did we need to know about the husband’s secret gifts? Could it have simply started where Juliette’s on a plane leaving her past behind her? Regardless, it’s a good exploration of wartime survival, devastating loss and secrets, and the serendipitous power of fate.
While I didn’t feel this story measured up to her previous historical fiction, I did love the premise. Who wouldn’t want to run off on an adventure in Paris and discover a forgotten bookshop that reveals secrets from the past?! If like me, you enjoy great historical fiction that isn’t heavy on unrealistic romance or marriage problems, you’ll want to read The Clockmaker’s Wife.
I was gifted this advance copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I absolutely loved the 1940s timeline and could have appreciated it as a stand-alone. The characters were wonderful, the shop, its name, the magic it held, and the wartime setting pulled me in and I resented having to flip forward to the modern timeline. I felt the modern-day tie-in with its cliched romance lessened the impact of a beautiful story. I think it boils down to the fact that I felt Juliette needed to be reigned in a little. Her brash moves irritated me as much as they irritated the locals. I think it also could have been that the relationships in both timelines were polar opposites, emphasising Juliette’s unhappy marriage and fling. Likewise, Kevin repulsed me. I couldn’t stand the man. I wonder if there could have been a different reason she found herself in Paris and alone. Did it have to be an unhappy marriage? Did we need to know about the husband’s secret gifts? Could it have simply started where Juliette’s on a plane leaving her past behind her? Regardless, it’s a good exploration of wartime survival, devastating loss and secrets, and the serendipitous power of fate.
While I didn’t feel this story measured up to her previous historical fiction, I did love the premise. Who wouldn’t want to run off on an adventure in Paris and discover a forgotten bookshop that reveals secrets from the past?! If like me, you enjoy great historical fiction that isn’t heavy on unrealistic romance or marriage problems, you’ll want to read The Clockmaker’s Wife.
I was gifted this advance copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 7, 2022
In a word, disappointing. I was happy to review this through Netgalley but this isn’t my sort of story. Primarily a work of historical fiction bouncing between occupied France in WWII and a by the numbers romance set in 2022. Normally historical fiction is my favorite genre but the modern romance is straight out of a Hallmark movie. If you like those cliches and light romances, you’ll most likely enjoy this. It’s very heavy on tropes like a woman fresh out of a bad marriage, starting her life over in the city of romance and meeting a man she’s immediately drawn to. However they end up hating one another when they first meet, getting close while fixing a sink that suddenly bursts, and almost derailing the whole relationship twice because of simple misunderstandings.
At first I was intrigued by how this cliche romance was going to intersect with the story of a couple in occupied France standing up to the Nazi’s. The main link is the bookshop owned initially by the couple in WWII. It lies abandoned now and is taken on by our novel’s heroine. The era and bookshop feel like set pieces for a predictable plot. Part of what bothered me in this story is the privileged and almost oblivious nature of the author and main character. The heroine is asked not to touch the bookstore because of its sad history, but does so anyway. To me it felt disrespectful and clueless. We’re asked to just accept the premise that this woman belongs here. That she’s destined to start a new life in Paris opening this bookstore and anyone who disagrees just doesn’t understand her. As if the other people’s feelings and personal histories weren’t worth as much as the gut instinct of this woman who’s sort of inserted herself in their community. and the end of the story felt rushed. I was left feeling cheated and a bit bitter.
The writing itself is nice, but feels generic in its phrasing. The author clings to the same phrases over and over again. “Chewed her nails to the quick” is written several times as a way to show a physical manifestation of long term anxiety. I was also unable to ignore a few overwhelming coincidences and subtle plot holes. None of it felt real and as a result I was left bothered by the feeling that this era in history wasn’t being treated seriously. Ultimately, I see good intentions but little understanding and an author with promise. This just isn't my cup of tea.
At first I was intrigued by how this cliche romance was going to intersect with the story of a couple in occupied France standing up to the Nazi’s. The main link is the bookshop owned initially by the couple in WWII. It lies abandoned now and is taken on by our novel’s heroine. The era and bookshop feel like set pieces for a predictable plot. Part of what bothered me in this story is the privileged and almost oblivious nature of the author and main character. The heroine is asked not to touch the bookstore because of its sad history, but does so anyway. To me it felt disrespectful and clueless. We’re asked to just accept the premise that this woman belongs here. That she’s destined to start a new life in Paris opening this bookstore and anyone who disagrees just doesn’t understand her. As if the other people’s feelings and personal histories weren’t worth as much as the gut instinct of this woman who’s sort of inserted herself in their community. and the end of the story felt rushed. I was left feeling cheated and a bit bitter.
The writing itself is nice, but feels generic in its phrasing. The author clings to the same phrases over and over again. “Chewed her nails to the quick” is written several times as a way to show a physical manifestation of long term anxiety. I was also unable to ignore a few overwhelming coincidences and subtle plot holes. None of it felt real and as a result I was left bothered by the feeling that this era in history wasn’t being treated seriously. Ultimately, I see good intentions but little understanding and an author with promise. This just isn't my cup of tea.
November 10, 2022
1939/1940: Paris is on the brink of being swallowed up by the Germans and Jacques bookshop La Page Cachée has to get rid of all books on the Otto List. His beloved wife Mathilde is determined to show some resistance while Jacques just wants to survive, that is until Mathilde is taken away to parts unknown. That is when Jacques becomes the hero he never knew he could be.
2022: Juliette and husband Kevin are on holiday in Paris where Juliette’s grandmother is from and Juliette is looking for the square in the picture which has hung in her grandmother’s bedroom forever. Kevin is not interested and just wants to get back to the good old USA. But then, a fly in the ointment, Juliette discovers Kevin has been having an affair and decides to stay in Paris and continue her search for the place in her grandmother’s picture. (Good for you Juliette!)
Juliette is lucky enough to eventually stumble upon the square and discovers that the little store in the picture used to be a bookshop.
The reader can take it from there as the story morphs into Juliette’s “Forgotten Bookshop” and Jacques and Mathilde’s story unfolds.
Jacques and Mathilde’s story could have stood alone, but in this case I didn’t so much mind the dual time-line. What started out as a 3-star turned into a 4-star for me.
2022: Juliette and husband Kevin are on holiday in Paris where Juliette’s grandmother is from and Juliette is looking for the square in the picture which has hung in her grandmother’s bedroom forever. Kevin is not interested and just wants to get back to the good old USA. But then, a fly in the ointment, Juliette discovers Kevin has been having an affair and decides to stay in Paris and continue her search for the place in her grandmother’s picture. (Good for you Juliette!)
Juliette is lucky enough to eventually stumble upon the square and discovers that the little store in the picture used to be a bookshop.
The reader can take it from there as the story morphs into Juliette’s “Forgotten Bookshop” and Jacques and Mathilde’s story unfolds.
Jacques and Mathilde’s story could have stood alone, but in this case I didn’t so much mind the dual time-line. What started out as a 3-star turned into a 4-star for me.
November 30, 2022
This was an interesting saga showing another side of the Second World War in Paris. It shows how the French helped each other out when the Germans invaded France and basically took over their lives changing so much. This was a dual time-line book which was easy to follow as the chapters were titled each time so I could keep up. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 6, 2022
Juliette came to Paris going through the motions of life. There she finds a certain “je ne sais quoi ”, a passion, a purpose and love.
After discovering her husband’s affair while on vacation in Paris, Juliette finds herself unable to leave the city. Drawn to an abandoned bookstore, Juliette discovers its secrets and how they entwine with her family history. It was as if she was meant to be there.
The story is told in a dual timeline and also features the story of Jacques and Mathilde, who married on the day WW2 broke out. They risked their lives as part of the French Resistance. Theirs is a story of love, perseverance, courage in the face of evil, sacrifice and betrayal.
It’s a story that reminds us that change is always possible and that taking risks can provide rewards.
There is an element of mystery in the story, which I enjoyed as I read, but if I’m honest, it did seem to be resolved rather abruptly. I think a little more time could have been spent on the unraveling. But, I enjoyed the story and the characters were relatable and likeable. I also enjoyed the descriptions of Paris. It made me feel like I was there sitting in a cafe taking in the sites, sounds and smells. A great effort by the author, indeed.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
After discovering her husband’s affair while on vacation in Paris, Juliette finds herself unable to leave the city. Drawn to an abandoned bookstore, Juliette discovers its secrets and how they entwine with her family history. It was as if she was meant to be there.
The story is told in a dual timeline and also features the story of Jacques and Mathilde, who married on the day WW2 broke out. They risked their lives as part of the French Resistance. Theirs is a story of love, perseverance, courage in the face of evil, sacrifice and betrayal.
It’s a story that reminds us that change is always possible and that taking risks can provide rewards.
There is an element of mystery in the story, which I enjoyed as I read, but if I’m honest, it did seem to be resolved rather abruptly. I think a little more time could have been spent on the unraveling. But, I enjoyed the story and the characters were relatable and likeable. I also enjoyed the descriptions of Paris. It made me feel like I was there sitting in a cafe taking in the sites, sounds and smells. A great effort by the author, indeed.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2022
A Tragic Story of Resistance
This is a bit of a dual storyline with part in 1940's Paris during WWII and part in 2022 Paris. It centers around a bookshop in a Paris square.
Juliette goes to Paris with her husband and finds the bookstore in her grandmother's picture. The store is for sale and she decides to buy it not knowing the story she will uncover dating back to 1940.
In 1940 a young married couple is running a bookshop during the Nazi occupation of WWII. How they helped the resistance help Jewish people and resistance workers even children during the war. Their story, their separation and the price they paid for their part in the resistance movement. How in a time of such tension you could trust no one and on trusted patron sold them out to the Nazi's.
It is a story of Love and of compassion for those unfortunate enough to be hunted by the Nazi's and needing their help.
This story will keep you reading, it is engaging and full of suspense and close calls. Secret meetings, and fatal consequences. I recommend this book, you will want to read it.
Thanks to Daisy Wood for writing a great story, to Avon Books, UK for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
This is a bit of a dual storyline with part in 1940's Paris during WWII and part in 2022 Paris. It centers around a bookshop in a Paris square.
Juliette goes to Paris with her husband and finds the bookstore in her grandmother's picture. The store is for sale and she decides to buy it not knowing the story she will uncover dating back to 1940.
In 1940 a young married couple is running a bookshop during the Nazi occupation of WWII. How they helped the resistance help Jewish people and resistance workers even children during the war. Their story, their separation and the price they paid for their part in the resistance movement. How in a time of such tension you could trust no one and on trusted patron sold them out to the Nazi's.
It is a story of Love and of compassion for those unfortunate enough to be hunted by the Nazi's and needing their help.
This story will keep you reading, it is engaging and full of suspense and close calls. Secret meetings, and fatal consequences. I recommend this book, you will want to read it.
Thanks to Daisy Wood for writing a great story, to Avon Books, UK for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to read and review.
January 21, 2023
The streets filled with laughter as people enjoyed their day. Soaking up sunshine and reveling in the peace before the war came. He sat at the counter in his bookshop, watching out the window as people skipped by. A few entered the shop and perused his collection of books, smiling as they reverently turned pages. A warmth flooded his heart as he saw others enjoying books as much as he did. But that warmth wouldn’t last long when the coldness of war was on the horizon.
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is a dual timeline historical fiction novel. Following Jacques, a bookshop owner in France during WWII. And also following Juliette who is spending an extended time in Paris after learning upsetting news.
I wanted to love this book, but for me it was a complete letdown. Juliette in the present timeline was a character I could care less about and her double standards and whining annoyed me to no end. Her story honestly made me want to DNF the book. The past timeline was better than the present, but it didn’t have much of a wow factor and was actually quite bland. I didn’t connect with the characters like I wanted to.
Overall this one was a disappointment and I’m bummed. There are other historical fictions that are better and more engaging than this one to check out! The Last Bookshop in London is one I recommend if you’re looking for another bookshop related WWII historical fiction.
TW: War, Genocide, Death, Antisemitism, Gun Violence, Infidelity.
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is a dual timeline historical fiction novel. Following Jacques, a bookshop owner in France during WWII. And also following Juliette who is spending an extended time in Paris after learning upsetting news.
I wanted to love this book, but for me it was a complete letdown. Juliette in the present timeline was a character I could care less about and her double standards and whining annoyed me to no end. Her story honestly made me want to DNF the book. The past timeline was better than the present, but it didn’t have much of a wow factor and was actually quite bland. I didn’t connect with the characters like I wanted to.
Overall this one was a disappointment and I’m bummed. There are other historical fictions that are better and more engaging than this one to check out! The Last Bookshop in London is one I recommend if you’re looking for another bookshop related WWII historical fiction.
TW: War, Genocide, Death, Antisemitism, Gun Violence, Infidelity.
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
March 12, 2023
This book was not what I anticipated it to be. Having read many books about World War 2, this story failed to have a storyline I could connect to. The alternate stories also concentrated on failed relationships. Which had nothing to do with the rest of the novel. I gather the author wanted to develop another spin by creating a less serious side of the war. As far, as I'm concerned, this is a subject not to be taken or (read) lightly.
February 8, 2023
One of the most amazing stories I've read! I finished reading it with tears in my eyes and couldn't stop thinking about it.
It's a dual POV and dual timeline story with one part set in occupied Paris during WWII. It's more than a love story: it's many love stories, many stories of people being brave and saving others. Jacques POV is poignant and at times hard to read, but there's also hope.
The other part is set in modern-day Paris with a middle-aged American woman who needs a change in her life.
Beautifully written with amazing characters. This is one I won't easily forget.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
It's a dual POV and dual timeline story with one part set in occupied Paris during WWII. It's more than a love story: it's many love stories, many stories of people being brave and saving others. Jacques POV is poignant and at times hard to read, but there's also hope.
The other part is set in modern-day Paris with a middle-aged American woman who needs a change in her life.
Beautifully written with amazing characters. This is one I won't easily forget.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
September 14, 2023
From the title and the cover I was wrongly expecting this read to be a little bland. It wasn’t. What it was, was a really gripping dual-line wartime/present day drama depicting the past and present life of a characterful bookshop in the heart of Paris. A mind-boggling cast of side characters made it a little hard to follow in parts of the war sections but I loved how both sections interwove and eventually meshed. Unpredictable & dramatic but still an easy, light read.
Shelved as '2022'
May 28, 2024📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Avon
July 11, 2024
i really loved the 1940s storyline, could not have cared less about the 2022 storyline. i don't always love split timelines like this because i usually find it harder to get invested in the modern story. the 2022 portion just seemed so...low stakes? and at times sort of pointless ?? when compared to the other half of the plot. i just found it difficult to care about a woman's divorce when compared with the hardships faced by the people in the 40s...
May 1, 2024
A regény két idősíkon játszódik a történelmi 1939-ben kezdődik, amikor Jacques megvalósítja álmát és kinyitja a könyvesboltját Párizsban, sőt elnyeri a tökéletes nő kezét is: Mathilde aki kurátor az egyik múzeumban feleségül megy hozzá. Csakhogy a történelemből tudjuk, hogy alakulnak a dolgok Franciaországban, s bármennyire is igyekeznek meghúzni magukat a háborús események őket is utolérik. A német megszállók könyveket tiltanak be (ezeket persze Jacques csak elrejti nem semmisíti meg), zsidó kereskedőket tesznek tönkre (a férfi egyik kollégájának aki nem dolgozhat emiatt, segít azért még tovább adni a raktárkészletén), Mathilde egyre izgálgább lesz, úgy érzi tennie kell valamit a nácik ellen, s van egy ellenséges de könyvmániás tiszt is, aki sokat forgolászik Jacques boltjában, s ki tudja milyen szándékai vannak … Mathilde egyre elszántabb és harcosabb lesz és fokozatosan Jacques-nak is be kell látnia, hogy nem maradhat semleges …
2022 kora tavaszán Juliette és férje végre elutaznak Párizsba ahova a nő mindig is vágyott, hiszen imádott nagymamája a második világháború után innen került Amerikába. Egyik célja, hogy megpróbálja a családja eredetét felkutatni. Kevin azonban inkább visszatérne mielőbb otthonukba, s mikor kiderül, hogy miért, Juliette úgy dönt, hogy Franciaországban marad és folytatja a keresést. Fel is leli a kis eldugott teret a városban amely Marie nagyi kedvenc festményén szerepelt, sőt egy elhagyatott üzlethelyiséget is talál ott, amelyet megpróbál kibérelni, hogy könyvesboltot nyisson …
Azt kell mondanom, hogy eleinte nehezen ment a regény olvasása, de aztán beszippantott a történet és a végén már faltam az oldalakat. Mert hiába a különleges könyvesbolt Jacques eleinte nagyon gyenge hősnek tűnik, folyamatosan azt vártam, hogy majd Mathilde tesz valami merészet és előlép főbb szereplővé. De nem így történt és szerencsés is volt, ugyanis a kötet egyik előnye pont az, hogy megmutatja a kis emberek, akik félnek és nem akarnak semmibe belekeveredni, csak megúszni az egész háborút, megszállást ha alapvetően jó szívűek, akkor bizony az erkölcsi iránytűjük oda vezeti őket, hogy menekülteket bujtatnak és zsidó gyerekeket mentenek meg a deportálástól. Jacques ugyanis a maga csendes módján előbb csak átmeneti búvóhelyet ad boltjában tiltott köteteknek, ellenállóknak és üldözött családtagoknak, aztán ösztönösen lesz belőle olyan ember, aki felismeri hol és hogyan tud segíteni.
Abból a szempontból meglepő volt a könyv, hogy végül kiderült, valójában Jacques és az ő tettei állnak a középpontba, holott azt vártam, majd Mathilde kerül előtérbe. De ez igazából kellemes meglepetés volt: mert mint ahogy írtam egy igazi kisember életét követhettük, aki rendkívüli időszakot élt át. Mivel Jacques és a könyvesbolt is teljesen a szerző találmánya volt, biztos vagyok benne, hogy sok hasonló esetből ollózta össze a cselekményt, de ezek mind nagyon illettek a lapokra: izgalmas volt és váratlan fordulatokban gazdag, s egyáltalán nem sablonos, sőt több újdonsággal is szolgált nekem. Mert persze tudtam az ellenállásról, a Párizsban működő hálózatokról, a kollaboránsokról de a zsidó gyerekek sorsa nagyon megdöbbentett.
A dupla idősíkos történetek esetében fennállhat az a lehetőség, hogy az egyik kevésbé sikerül mint a másik. S bizony itt is ez van, sajnos a napjainkban történő események és szereplők egyáltalán nem kötöttek le, túlságosan sablonos volt Juliette szála. Még szerencse, hogy jóval több időt lehetett tölteni az 1940-es évek Párizsában, ahol viszont összeszorult szívvel olvastam Jacques apró hőstetteiről. Mint második világháborús történelmi regényt nagyon tudom ajánlani, de a modern részt simán el lehetett volna hagyni …
Részletesen: http://olvasonaplo.net/olvasonaplo/20...
2022 kora tavaszán Juliette és férje végre elutaznak Párizsba ahova a nő mindig is vágyott, hiszen imádott nagymamája a második világháború után innen került Amerikába. Egyik célja, hogy megpróbálja a családja eredetét felkutatni. Kevin azonban inkább visszatérne mielőbb otthonukba, s mikor kiderül, hogy miért, Juliette úgy dönt, hogy Franciaországban marad és folytatja a keresést. Fel is leli a kis eldugott teret a városban amely Marie nagyi kedvenc festményén szerepelt, sőt egy elhagyatott üzlethelyiséget is talál ott, amelyet megpróbál kibérelni, hogy könyvesboltot nyisson …
Azt kell mondanom, hogy eleinte nehezen ment a regény olvasása, de aztán beszippantott a történet és a végén már faltam az oldalakat. Mert hiába a különleges könyvesbolt Jacques eleinte nagyon gyenge hősnek tűnik, folyamatosan azt vártam, hogy majd Mathilde tesz valami merészet és előlép főbb szereplővé. De nem így történt és szerencsés is volt, ugyanis a kötet egyik előnye pont az, hogy megmutatja a kis emberek, akik félnek és nem akarnak semmibe belekeveredni, csak megúszni az egész háborút, megszállást ha alapvetően jó szívűek, akkor bizony az erkölcsi iránytűjük oda vezeti őket, hogy menekülteket bujtatnak és zsidó gyerekeket mentenek meg a deportálástól. Jacques ugyanis a maga csendes módján előbb csak átmeneti búvóhelyet ad boltjában tiltott köteteknek, ellenállóknak és üldözött családtagoknak, aztán ösztönösen lesz belőle olyan ember, aki felismeri hol és hogyan tud segíteni.
Abból a szempontból meglepő volt a könyv, hogy végül kiderült, valójában Jacques és az ő tettei állnak a középpontba, holott azt vártam, majd Mathilde kerül előtérbe. De ez igazából kellemes meglepetés volt: mert mint ahogy írtam egy igazi kisember életét követhettük, aki rendkívüli időszakot élt át. Mivel Jacques és a könyvesbolt is teljesen a szerző találmánya volt, biztos vagyok benne, hogy sok hasonló esetből ollózta össze a cselekményt, de ezek mind nagyon illettek a lapokra: izgalmas volt és váratlan fordulatokban gazdag, s egyáltalán nem sablonos, sőt több újdonsággal is szolgált nekem. Mert persze tudtam az ellenállásról, a Párizsban működő hálózatokról, a kollaboránsokról de a zsidó gyerekek sorsa nagyon megdöbbentett.
A dupla idősíkos történetek esetében fennállhat az a lehetőség, hogy az egyik kevésbé sikerül mint a másik. S bizony itt is ez van, sajnos a napjainkban történő események és szereplők egyáltalán nem kötöttek le, túlságosan sablonos volt Juliette szála. Még szerencse, hogy jóval több időt lehetett tölteni az 1940-es évek Párizsában, ahol viszont összeszorult szívvel olvastam Jacques apró hőstetteiről. Mint második világháborús történelmi regényt nagyon tudom ajánlani, de a modern részt simán el lehetett volna hagyni …
Részletesen: http://olvasonaplo.net/olvasonaplo/20...
June 10, 2024
3.5 stars
a lovely historical fiction WWII novel! I definitely think I’m spoiled as I’ve read a number of INCREDIBLE books in this genre, so this one just didn’t quite hit that mark, but nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read :)
a lovely historical fiction WWII novel! I definitely think I’m spoiled as I’ve read a number of INCREDIBLE books in this genre, so this one just didn’t quite hit that mark, but nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read :)
Want to read
March 7, 2023I thought this book was pretty good. I was hooked!! The characters were very well written. The whole book was just wow!! I was impressed with this story
April 18, 2024
Very cute WWII fiction. The ending was a lil too cliche for my tastes but overall very good!
October 18, 2022
Finished reading: October 18th 2022
"It's important to remember the past, no matter how painful the process might be."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Avon in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
November 20, 2022
‘He will call his shop La Page Cachée - The Hidden Page - because he knows the magic that is to be found within the covers of a book.’
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is the second book I have read by Daisy and I absolutely loved it! To have a combination of Paris, WWII and a bookshop in past and present timelines was wonderful. There is a love of literature woven throughout and setting up a bookstore in Paris is a dream for many. With themes of love, war and betrayals, it all comes together for a riveting read.
‘Bookstores and libraries were her spiritual home, so quiet and calm and full of knowledge - and now here was the ghost of a bookstore on her doorstep.’
The two past and present storylines meld together in a surprising mystery. Included are the tragedies of WWII with the Nazi occupation of Paris and Daisy does a superb job of telling not only the love story of Jacque and Mathilde but also his evolution throughout this experience. The contemporary tale, whilst a well worn trope of marriage breakdown and moving to a new country for rediscovery is well used, with the addition of setting up a bookstore and discovering family heritage, Daisy does a solid job of it. All up is a poignant tale told from many aspects with engaging characters and tribulations to overcome.
‘All my life, I’ve been making decisions based on what other people wanted.This adventure is just for me. Is that selfish? Maybe, but I don’t want to wake up in thirty years’ time and realise I’ve wasted my life. We only get one shot–might as well make the most of it.’
My only wish would have been more focus on the unfolding of the family mystery as opposed to the setting up of the bookstore in Paris. The story came to a close quickly, whereas I wished to be immersed in the discovery for longer. The two timelines weave together well with the historical narrative being slightly stronger - I really appreciated the evolution of Jacque’s character and the risks taken as being part of the French Resistance.
‘Books were his livelihood, his passion, his raison d’être; how could he allow them to be destroyed? He had already accepted so much humiliation from the Nazis but this was a step too far.’
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is a story of love and courage, sacrifice and surrender. It’s a tale of heartbreak and hope as the two lead characters from both timelines are on a journey of self discovery. I highly recommend it as I found it a moving and memorable story.
‘Here’s to you and The Forgotten Bookshop. May she soon be remembered.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is the second book I have read by Daisy and I absolutely loved it! To have a combination of Paris, WWII and a bookshop in past and present timelines was wonderful. There is a love of literature woven throughout and setting up a bookstore in Paris is a dream for many. With themes of love, war and betrayals, it all comes together for a riveting read.
‘Bookstores and libraries were her spiritual home, so quiet and calm and full of knowledge - and now here was the ghost of a bookstore on her doorstep.’
The two past and present storylines meld together in a surprising mystery. Included are the tragedies of WWII with the Nazi occupation of Paris and Daisy does a superb job of telling not only the love story of Jacque and Mathilde but also his evolution throughout this experience. The contemporary tale, whilst a well worn trope of marriage breakdown and moving to a new country for rediscovery is well used, with the addition of setting up a bookstore and discovering family heritage, Daisy does a solid job of it. All up is a poignant tale told from many aspects with engaging characters and tribulations to overcome.
‘All my life, I’ve been making decisions based on what other people wanted.This adventure is just for me. Is that selfish? Maybe, but I don’t want to wake up in thirty years’ time and realise I’ve wasted my life. We only get one shot–might as well make the most of it.’
My only wish would have been more focus on the unfolding of the family mystery as opposed to the setting up of the bookstore in Paris. The story came to a close quickly, whereas I wished to be immersed in the discovery for longer. The two timelines weave together well with the historical narrative being slightly stronger - I really appreciated the evolution of Jacque’s character and the risks taken as being part of the French Resistance.
‘Books were his livelihood, his passion, his raison d’être; how could he allow them to be destroyed? He had already accepted so much humiliation from the Nazis but this was a step too far.’
The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris is a story of love and courage, sacrifice and surrender. It’s a tale of heartbreak and hope as the two lead characters from both timelines are on a journey of self discovery. I highly recommend it as I found it a moving and memorable story.
‘Here’s to you and The Forgotten Bookshop. May she soon be remembered.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
December 13, 2022
Juliette and her husband are on vacation in Paris in the present day. She decides to remain and trace her heritage when she finds out her was having an affair. Her grandmother lived there during a war and there was always a painting hanging in the house.
Jacques and Mathilde are a French married couple during WWII who are put in a position where they help a British woman avoid being rounded up. Then she gets involved in the resistance and is forced to flee. He ends up helping other people escape via a secret room in his bookshop.
I liked how the storylines ended up tying together.
Jacques and Mathilde are a French married couple during WWII who are put in a position where they help a British woman avoid being rounded up. Then she gets involved in the resistance and is forced to flee. He ends up helping other people escape via a secret room in his bookshop.
I liked how the storylines ended up tying together.
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