The British Booksellers

Lots of moving parts - this inspirational WWII novel has quite a few threads to keep track of. Charlotte and Amos came from different worlds; Amos was a lowly tenant's son and Charlotte was part of the upper crust of British society. Despite that, the two enjoyed each other's company and would sneak off to the old greenhouse whenever they had a hance so they could read or Charlotte could play her cello. By the time they declare their mutual affection for each other it is too late - WWI has erupted and Charlotte has been promised to a titled man. Now decades later, the two have opened up rival bookstores and an American solicitor has come to Britain to shake things up for the former lovebirds. On top of that, war with Germany is at their doorstop. Told through multiple perspectives - this tale of love, hope, and secrets goes back in forth in time. Very good, loved the characters - just a lot to keep track of!

The Italian Ballerina

Told from multiple perspectives and between two timelines - this historical fiction weaves together an unlikely cast of characters. In Italy at the height of the second World War two American army medics, a prima ballerina, and a young Jewish orphan find themselves thrown together in impossible circumstances. In the present day, Delaney is going through her grandfather's belongings after his passing when a mysterious (and handsome) Italian man calls and demands that they return his grandmother's possessions. Delaney has no idea what he is talking about, but when she discovers a little girl's suitcase he insists that she returns it immediately. He offers to pay to fly her out so she can safeguard it. What secrets could be kept in there? As the story progresses more and more secrets come to life and Delaney and the Italian man, Matteo, will learn who their grandparents really are. This inspirational novel is a must read for religious readers and for those who like WWII fiction that isn't too dark.