The characters in this story were very real and raw. Now I wish that I had known about this magical place so that I could have visited when I went to Paris a few years ago. As an aspiring librarian myself, I loved getting to learn more about the inner workings of this library during such a trying time in history (something that is being mirrored in certain ways by the trying times we are currently living in).

It felt like getting a warm hug from a friend. The description of this library and the people who worked there was just so welcoming. I now know that the people who worked there during the Nazi occupation of Paris were brave beyond measure and incredibly inspiring. I didn’t even know it existed, actually, which is a shame. You give me a WWII historical fiction novel about librarians and you can sign me up right away! I had never heard anything about the American Library in Paris before. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.* * I received this book for free from Netgalley and Atria Books in exchange for an honest review. As Lily uncovers more about her neighbor’s mysterious past, she finds that they share a love of language, the same longings, and the same intense jealousy, never suspecting that a dark secret from the past connects them.Ī powerful novel that explores the consequences of our choices and the relationships that make us who we are-family, friends, and favorite authors-The Paris Library shows that extraordinary heroism can sometimes be found in the quietest of places. Her interest is piqued by her solitary, elderly neighbor.

Montana, 1983: Lily is a lonely teenager looking for adventure in small-town Montana. But when the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of unspeakable betrayal. Together with her fellow librarians, Odile joins the Resistance with the best weapons she has: books. When the Nazis march into Paris, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles ~ 368 pages ~ to be published Februby Atria Books (Simon & Schuster) Goodreads Synopsis:īased on the true World War II story of the heroic librarians at the American Library in Paris, this is an unforgettable story of romance, friendship, family, and the power of literature to bring us together, perfect for fans of The Lilac Girls and The Paris Wife.

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