As you all know by now that Historical Fiction is one of my favourite genres to read. I stumbled across “The Paris Library” when I was looking for more suggestion in this genre from a BookBlogger. The best part about such books is that despite being a work of fiction, these books have a touch of reality.
“The Paris Library” is based on the true events during the Second world war in Paris, circa 1939 and another half is based in 1980’s with Odile, the protagonist and her war time journey.

Blurb:
Odile loves books and so decides to work at an english library, the American Library called The Paris Library. During the 2nd world war, when Nazi’s attack France, a lot of turmoil is going on in Paris. But the Library decides to keep its doors open for its readers, Jewish and Soldiers too. While at the library, Odile falls in love with a police officer. She makes new friends, and also sees friendship going down and people going against one another to survive the brutalities of Nazi’s. Loved ones are at stake, people are scared for their lives, others return to their homeland.
Come to 1980’s, Odile now stays alone, and her teenage neighbor, Lily takes interest in her. She starts asking Odile about her life and as the story unfolds with each page, you will experience Odile’s journey.

Photo: American Library in Paris
I like how the author; Janet S. Charles has crafted a perfect blend of well researched facts with a mix of fiction to tell this interesting story. The Paris Library still stays under the shadow on Eiffel Tower and celebrated its 100 years in 2020. A lot of paperwork and stories about The Paris Library are available on Google to read.

The author has touched upon some interesting details about the library. She has shown female characters to be very strong and committed towards the library. With this book you will experience love, loss, deceit, commitment, and conviction. I loved how history is shared and Odile’s past is discussed through two-time frames. We all take our time to come out of loss and when one has survived through a war time, the memories can only be painful.

I loved each page of this book. More so of the war times because, being a reader myself, I could feel the connect with Odile. Her passion for books and the commitment towards her work at the library is something I could resonate with.
So, if you like historical fiction, this book is for you. Undoubtedly a very good book that will take you through the 2nd world war and life of people in Paris.
I have also review one more Historical fiction which was partially based on true events, ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz” which you can read here.
This blog is a part of Book Marathon by https://outsetbooks.com/
29 replies on “The Paris Library- Book Review”
Book on true stories are really interesting to read and I love such books. You penned the review in an interesting way which can increase interest among readers. Thank you for such a wonderful review.
Of late I’m getting to see many books based on true life events, and was confused not knowing which one to pick up. Your interesting review has urged me to give this a try. Thank you for the recommendation.
Wow, Previously I want to read the book for the titel and now am supre impressed by the content. I love the way you deliver the pen.I must put the book in my tbr list. Thanks for sharing
I too a fan of historical fiction and from your review I understood this book going to fabulous. the part where you wrote about the Paris incident and the protagonist’s war time journey has escalated my interests a lot more. Also, the picture you attested made it look much more lively. Will read it asap.
I love reading historical fictions, as i feel like these books are like time machines to take me on ride of ordinary people with extraordinary stories. Lkve the way you wrote about the book.
This review is just top level. Loved how you penned it and brought out the details I a brilliant manner. Great one
Nice review. Have come across this book a lot in the last few days, adding it to my reading list
I haven’t read historical fiction in a while now. Would take it up…
Historical Fiction!! Oh that is something I have read really long time ago when I was a teenager. Definitely the story seems gripping and interesting to read.
Thank you for a detailed review. I loved the concept of the book and will certainly grab this one. The whole concept of keeping the library open during the war must have been so brave.
Books base don real stories and facts always draws my attention. They are some strong plot to engage reader’s attention. My daughter is also into Historiacal fiction. If this book is good for 14 year old, I would like to get her a copy of it.
My elder one loves historical fiction genra. will surly share about this book to her. I am sure she will love it. thanks for sharing another wonderful book review. as usual, it was crisp and to the point.
The books seems great, especially because it covers the history and interesting facts. More so your review makes me want to start reading it right away
Oh this is a unique book, amazing review I must say and this book looks an interesting mix of history and fiction. Personally I love reading this genre and would to know more about this Paris Library.
Books and movies on true event always mark an impact and make it interesting . I really like your review and love to give a book a read.
Books on true stories really interest me especially when they are written in a fiction format. I think fiction is my reading genre anyday. But not writing. 😬
Thanks for the detailed review. Love the way you penned it down. I am adding this book to my list now.
It’s a good book you will enjoy it.
I have never read historical fiction but from your review I can guess how wonderful and interesting this book is. I think my mom would love to read this book, shall get it for her. Thanks for sharing this review, Hansa.
Oh ofcourse this is a fabulous book and am sure she would enjoy reading it
Love the way these books bring back the action part of our history .. That era was different and worth revisiting all the time
I too enjoy such stories and travel back in time virtually to experience the Era.
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genre too, and the main character truly resonates well to this time too. Shall surely add this book to my TBR.
This book is a wonderful read. I have read this and absolutely loved it!
One of my favorite genre is historic fiction. I really love the blurb and character of odile, I. Think I wil pick. This up sooner.
It’s a superb read if you like this genre.
Wow this is.my type of book. I have to grab my copy now. Can’t stop myself because your review is so tempting
You will love it.
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