The Wartime Book Club by Kate Thompson

Kate Thompson has done it again! What a fantastic book – it kept me enthralled from beginning to end. An amazing story which takes place on the Island of Jersey during the second world war, which is lovely based on several true stories which took place during that period in Jersey, which made it even more fascinating.

Bea and Grace are the best of friends, living on Jersey. Grace works in the Library, and Bea works for the Post Office. Bea is also dating Grace’s brother, who is her childhood sweetheart. When the Germans take over the Island the population are starving and miserable – the library becomes a massive form of escape and the amount of books borrowed each week goes through the roof and Grace is very busy. Bea is also busy as some of the Islanders are very happy to send anonymous letters denouncing their neighbours. Bea holds the letters up just long enough for the victims to be warned that their house will be searched.

Unfortunately the war doesn’t pan out as expected for the two girls – Bea ends up in jail, and Grace risks everything to get her free – even getting herself arrested instead.

An amazing story, and it cumulates with a chapter at the end of the book telling the real stories that this novel is based on. Highly recommended.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6166131808