First published 2025
Charlie Matters has survived on London's streets by stealing what he needs. The orphaned young man dodges falling bombs during the Blitz, waiting for his chance to enlist and fight the Germans. Meanwhile, Molly Wakefield returns to London after five years of countryside evacuation through Operation Pied Piper. She expected a joyful reunion with her parents, but finds only her former nanny, Mrs. Pride, in a city transformed by war. Both Charlie and Molly discover sanctuary at The Book Keep, a shop owned by widower Ignatius Oliver. The three form an unlikely bond amid the chaos of wartime London. Their fragile peace faces threats from multiple directions. Charlie's criminal past draws unwanted attention. Someone has been following Molly since her return. Ignatius carries guilt over a secret connected to his wife's death. As bombs continue to fall and hidden truths surface, the trio must decide whether they can trust each other enough to survive both the war and their personal demons.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, 20th-century, war
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: London, England
Period: World War II
435 pages · Hardcover · Grand Central Publishing
Content warnings: war