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The Wartime Librarian’s Secret
The new uplifting WWII romance saga novel from bestselling author Molly Green, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn, Nancy Revell and Anna Stuart.
Bestselling historical fiction author Molly Green is back with her most engrossing, heartfelt World War Two saga yet, The Wartime Librarian's Secret!Amid the chaos of war, will a new chapter begin?
September 1942. Esme Donaldson is still grieving the devastating loss of her husband, Anthony, when she’s forced out of her dream job by wartime budget cuts.
Left with few options, Esme faces an uncertain future – until a chance encounter sends her to Redcliffe Manor, a grand estate deep in the Somerset countryside, and an unexpected role as the manor’s librarian.
As Esme settles in, she discovers the house is no ordinary country estate. The grounds have been requisitioned by an American military hospital, while the house is sheltering a displaced girls’ boarding school. And as the halls echo with the feet of giggling schoolgirls, the grounds bustle with convalescing soldiers.
When she meets a handsome American colonel, the attraction between them is instant. But Esme holds a secret that may ruin everything. Will she find the strength to face her past or be kept from the happiness she deserves?
Bestselling historical fiction author Molly Green is back with her most engrossing, heartfelt World War Two saga yet, The Wartime Librarian's Secret!Amid the chaos of war, will a new chapter begin?
September 1942. Esme Donaldson is still grieving the devastating loss of her husband, Anthony, when she’s forced out of her dream job by wartime budget cuts.
Left with few options, Esme faces an uncertain future – until a chance encounter sends her to Redcliffe Manor, a grand estate deep in the Somerset countryside, and an unexpected role as the manor’s librarian.
As Esme settles in, she discovers the house is no ordinary country estate. The grounds have been requisitioned by an American military hospital, while the house is sheltering a displaced girls’ boarding school. And as the halls echo with the feet of giggling schoolgirls, the grounds bustle with convalescing soldiers.
When she meets a handsome American colonel, the attraction between them is instant. But Esme holds a secret that may ruin everything. Will she find the strength to face her past or be kept from the happiness she deserves?
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2025
377 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 7, 2025
Set against the backdrop of the second world war in England it will tell the story of one woman's brave journey of trying to navigate through life. Overall this was a very lovely book not only about having a second chance at finding love but also trying to keep the family bonds strong. I was overall very impressed with this novel the characters were wonderful and the way that the plot played out was very impressive.
Our main character Esme has had it difficult the last couple of years what with her husband dying and losing a child. Her father's health is also failing and her stepmother doesn't seem to care.To make matters worse the war has caused jobs to downsize and she ends up losing her position at the library. However, a meeting with a stranger at a coffee shop gives her good prospects obtaining a new position.
She ends up obtaining a position at a local manor. On top of organizing the estate library she is also been employed to write the memoirs for the man of the house. Things seem to be looking up for her but she has constant worries about the war and her fathers declining health. Then there is also the handsome new Doctor whom she starts developing feelings that she hasn't had since her husband.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
Our main character Esme has had it difficult the last couple of years what with her husband dying and losing a child. Her father's health is also failing and her stepmother doesn't seem to care.To make matters worse the war has caused jobs to downsize and she ends up losing her position at the library. However, a meeting with a stranger at a coffee shop gives her good prospects obtaining a new position.
She ends up obtaining a position at a local manor. On top of organizing the estate library she is also been employed to write the memoirs for the man of the house. Things seem to be looking up for her but she has constant worries about the war and her fathers declining health. Then there is also the handsome new Doctor whom she starts developing feelings that she hasn't had since her husband.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
November 30, 2025
Free courtesy of Netgalley
I have really enjoyed reading Molly Green's Bletchley series, so when I was asked if I would like to read her new novel I did not hesitate to say yes. I was not disappointed with the story at all but I have found the title to be a bit misleading as yes Esme has secrets but in my mind I thought that the story would be about her being some sort of spy, passing on war secrets whilst working in a library. Unfortunately it isn't that kind of story but it is still a great read.
When Esme is given her notice from the public library in Bath, she needs to find another job quickly, as she doesn't want to have to move back with her ailing Dad and her step mother. She also doesn't want to move too far away from her dad as he is extremely poorly and she is not comfortable that her step mother is looking after him properly. After meeting a young lady in a coffee shop, she gets offered an interview to work in a stately home as a librarian but all is not what it seems.
The book follows Esme as she navigates her new life, whilst having to deal with the death of her husband, losing her job and home and trying to look out for her dad, whilst living in at her new job and all that it entails, whilst a war is going on
Again another book set in the WW2 era (I have said I love books about this era). It is a lovely book with some interesting characters, based on events that really did happen even though the names may have been changed. You can tell there was lots of research done (especially with the location of the stately home).
There was a small extract at the end of Molly's new book so I am hoping I am offered to read this one too 🤞#mollygreen #longleathouse #ww2novel #historicalfiction #bookwormlife
I have really enjoyed reading Molly Green's Bletchley series, so when I was asked if I would like to read her new novel I did not hesitate to say yes. I was not disappointed with the story at all but I have found the title to be a bit misleading as yes Esme has secrets but in my mind I thought that the story would be about her being some sort of spy, passing on war secrets whilst working in a library. Unfortunately it isn't that kind of story but it is still a great read.
When Esme is given her notice from the public library in Bath, she needs to find another job quickly, as she doesn't want to have to move back with her ailing Dad and her step mother. She also doesn't want to move too far away from her dad as he is extremely poorly and she is not comfortable that her step mother is looking after him properly. After meeting a young lady in a coffee shop, she gets offered an interview to work in a stately home as a librarian but all is not what it seems.
The book follows Esme as she navigates her new life, whilst having to deal with the death of her husband, losing her job and home and trying to look out for her dad, whilst living in at her new job and all that it entails, whilst a war is going on
Again another book set in the WW2 era (I have said I love books about this era). It is a lovely book with some interesting characters, based on events that really did happen even though the names may have been changed. You can tell there was lots of research done (especially with the location of the stately home).
There was a small extract at the end of Molly's new book so I am hoping I am offered to read this one too 🤞#mollygreen #longleathouse #ww2novel #historicalfiction #bookwormlife
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
4 Stars
ARC Review
The Wartime Librarian’s Secret by Molly Green
This was such a heartfelt and atmospheric read. Molly Green delivers another emotionally layered historical novel with a resilient heroine at its heart and a setting that absolutely shines.
Set in 1942, the story follows Esme Donaldson, who is reeling from the loss of her husband and the abrupt end of her cherished career due to wartime cuts. She accepts a librarian position at Redcliffe Manor, a sprawling countryside estate that’s far more than it seems—housing both displaced schoolgirls and American military officers, and brimming with whispered secrets and wartime intrigue.
Esme is a deeply sympathetic character—reserved, hurting, but strong in quiet ways. Her arrival at the manor feels like a new beginning, and I loved how Green portrayed her gradual journey back to herself. The hints of espionage and hidden operations add suspense, while the blossoming romance with a charming American colonel brings just the right amount of lightness and hope. Their connection felt genuine and earned, though not without complications—especially with the secrets Esme is keeping close to her chest.
The wartime setting is vivid and engaging, full of charming historical detail and emotional weight. The inclusion of the girls’ school added warmth and energy to the story, and I loved the balance between personal drama and the larger wartime backdrop.
My only minor critique is that a few plot twists felt a little rushed or conveniently resolved, but the emotional payoff and character growth more than made up for it.
A lovely read for fans of:
• Historical fiction set during WWII
• Librarian and literary themes
• Stories of second chances, healing, and resilience
• Slow-burn romance with emotional depth
Molly Green fans won’t be disappointed—this is a thoughtful, moving story about love, loss, and the power of stories to heal.
ARC Review
The Wartime Librarian’s Secret by Molly Green
This was such a heartfelt and atmospheric read. Molly Green delivers another emotionally layered historical novel with a resilient heroine at its heart and a setting that absolutely shines.
Set in 1942, the story follows Esme Donaldson, who is reeling from the loss of her husband and the abrupt end of her cherished career due to wartime cuts. She accepts a librarian position at Redcliffe Manor, a sprawling countryside estate that’s far more than it seems—housing both displaced schoolgirls and American military officers, and brimming with whispered secrets and wartime intrigue.
Esme is a deeply sympathetic character—reserved, hurting, but strong in quiet ways. Her arrival at the manor feels like a new beginning, and I loved how Green portrayed her gradual journey back to herself. The hints of espionage and hidden operations add suspense, while the blossoming romance with a charming American colonel brings just the right amount of lightness and hope. Their connection felt genuine and earned, though not without complications—especially with the secrets Esme is keeping close to her chest.
The wartime setting is vivid and engaging, full of charming historical detail and emotional weight. The inclusion of the girls’ school added warmth and energy to the story, and I loved the balance between personal drama and the larger wartime backdrop.
My only minor critique is that a few plot twists felt a little rushed or conveniently resolved, but the emotional payoff and character growth more than made up for it.
A lovely read for fans of:
• Historical fiction set during WWII
• Librarian and literary themes
• Stories of second chances, healing, and resilience
• Slow-burn romance with emotional depth
Molly Green fans won’t be disappointed—this is a thoughtful, moving story about love, loss, and the power of stories to heal.
July 8, 2025
Thank you to @NetGalley and @AvonBooksUK for the advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
The Wartime Librarian's Secret is set in wartime England and follows the main character, Esme Donaldson. Stuart navigates her readers through Esme's love of books as an assistant librarian into the halls of the refined Redcliffe Manor where, as the Manor librarian she is charged with overseeing the reorganization and move of the Estate library. Esme discovers the library is not only filled with rare books but long-held secrets of the family who lives there. While there, Esme is also tasked with writing the memoir for Sir Giles, the owner of the estate. Reeling from her own losses and family drama, Esme also has secrets of her own.
Set in the countryside near Bath during WWII, the British and American's collaborate on establishing a military hospital for American Airforce pilots on requisitioned land of the estate. Enter in a handsome American doctor, the heartbroken Esme and you have the prime ingredients for a romance!
Stuart weaves together a lovely tapestry of family loss, forgiveness, heartbreak, second chances, coupled with a little intrigue, jealousy and deceit. While her characters are enjoyable, there was not a lot of depth to them, and the plot is not surprising. All in all, I enjoyed the story and found it worth the read. If you like romance, WWII England and books, this is one that you will want to read!
#TheWartimeLibrariansSecret #NetGalley #WWII #historicalfiction #womeninfiction #Librarys @wartimelibrarbies #WWIIEngland
The Wartime Librarian's Secret is set in wartime England and follows the main character, Esme Donaldson. Stuart navigates her readers through Esme's love of books as an assistant librarian into the halls of the refined Redcliffe Manor where, as the Manor librarian she is charged with overseeing the reorganization and move of the Estate library. Esme discovers the library is not only filled with rare books but long-held secrets of the family who lives there. While there, Esme is also tasked with writing the memoir for Sir Giles, the owner of the estate. Reeling from her own losses and family drama, Esme also has secrets of her own.
Set in the countryside near Bath during WWII, the British and American's collaborate on establishing a military hospital for American Airforce pilots on requisitioned land of the estate. Enter in a handsome American doctor, the heartbroken Esme and you have the prime ingredients for a romance!
Stuart weaves together a lovely tapestry of family loss, forgiveness, heartbreak, second chances, coupled with a little intrigue, jealousy and deceit. While her characters are enjoyable, there was not a lot of depth to them, and the plot is not surprising. All in all, I enjoyed the story and found it worth the read. If you like romance, WWII England and books, this is one that you will want to read!
#TheWartimeLibrariansSecret #NetGalley #WWII #historicalfiction #womeninfiction #Librarys @wartimelibrarbies #WWIIEngland
July 17, 2025
I am always amazed by the stories authors create. Molly Green has created a wonderful story of World War Two historical fiction. It doesn't just give the reader glimpses of one or two issues. The story is filled with secondary stories to touch at the heart of the reader.
Esme stumbles into a new life after being let go by the Bath Library. She had loved her job, but budget cuts left her unemployed. As luck would have it, drowning one's sorrows in tea can be the beginning she needed.
Working at Redcliffe Manor would be many readers dream job. Esme will be moving and organizing thousands of books including first editions. The British goverment has taken over part of the manor, providing space for a girl's school. The American government has taken over part of the landscape building hut after hut creating a hospital. I loved all the different stories that branch out from her new job. So many hours of lovely entertainment.
I have come to expect a romance when I read this type of story. Molly Green did not disappoint. Esme is healing from tragedy, reminding us of the horrors of war. It must be fate when she keeps coming across Colonel Parker, an American doctor.
The Wartime Librarian's Secret doesn't just contain stories of the British during WW2. The healing American soldiers give glimpses into issues in America and fighting in England. Esme's brilliance will make their lives better. And when Queen Mary comes to the manor get ready to fall in love with Queen Mary. She adds class and a bright spot to a time that always leaves me crying.
Esme stumbles into a new life after being let go by the Bath Library. She had loved her job, but budget cuts left her unemployed. As luck would have it, drowning one's sorrows in tea can be the beginning she needed.
Working at Redcliffe Manor would be many readers dream job. Esme will be moving and organizing thousands of books including first editions. The British goverment has taken over part of the manor, providing space for a girl's school. The American government has taken over part of the landscape building hut after hut creating a hospital. I loved all the different stories that branch out from her new job. So many hours of lovely entertainment.
I have come to expect a romance when I read this type of story. Molly Green did not disappoint. Esme is healing from tragedy, reminding us of the horrors of war. It must be fate when she keeps coming across Colonel Parker, an American doctor.
The Wartime Librarian's Secret doesn't just contain stories of the British during WW2. The healing American soldiers give glimpses into issues in America and fighting in England. Esme's brilliance will make their lives better. And when Queen Mary comes to the manor get ready to fall in love with Queen Mary. She adds class and a bright spot to a time that always leaves me crying.
July 17, 2025
This was a lovely book as many of Molly Green’s are.
They are well written and well researched and this time was based on the Longleat Estate during WW2 - I am unsure why there was a need to change the name as the US hospital and the Girls school are well documented and easy to find through an Internet search - the photos certainly add to one’s imagination as you read this book.
Esme or to give her her full name Esmeralda has had a tragic trail through the war so far - she is a widow though through illness not warfare - and has lost a beloved baby. It transpires that she was advised not to go through pregnancy again due to rheumatic fever as a child. Hence the ‘Secret’.
She meets an enigmatic Doctor, Brad Parker, in charge of the hospital - and inevitably falls for him - there are many obstacles in their way - if only they actually talked to one another.
So there is life in Somerset (again why? Longleat is in Wiltshire) with many characters brought to life by Molly Greens writing. And of course love.
A thoroughly enjoyable read for those that love WW2 historical fiction and another view on life in WW2 - based on real life events.
They are well written and well researched and this time was based on the Longleat Estate during WW2 - I am unsure why there was a need to change the name as the US hospital and the Girls school are well documented and easy to find through an Internet search - the photos certainly add to one’s imagination as you read this book.
Esme or to give her her full name Esmeralda has had a tragic trail through the war so far - she is a widow though through illness not warfare - and has lost a beloved baby. It transpires that she was advised not to go through pregnancy again due to rheumatic fever as a child. Hence the ‘Secret’.
She meets an enigmatic Doctor, Brad Parker, in charge of the hospital - and inevitably falls for him - there are many obstacles in their way - if only they actually talked to one another.
So there is life in Somerset (again why? Longleat is in Wiltshire) with many characters brought to life by Molly Greens writing. And of course love.
A thoroughly enjoyable read for those that love WW2 historical fiction and another view on life in WW2 - based on real life events.
July 17, 2025
An excellent foray into wartime Britain.
Esme Donaldson loves her job in the library. Devastated to be widowed due to the war, it is another knock when she is told that her job has to be cut. Worried about what she's going to do and how she's going to pay her rent, Esme is thrilled to land the job of librarian at Redcliffe Manor, a grand estate in the heart of the Somerset countryside. Not only is the job ideal for her, but accommodation is provided making her life far easier. As she settles in, she realises that this is not ordinary estat e as a girls' school has been relocated there and an American military hospital is being constructed in the grounds; there is plenty going on!
This is fiction based on fact and the author's diligence in research shines through. Not only focusing on life in the manor, we also follow family life and it is both interesting and enlightening on so many levels. Thoroughly enjoyable, and one I'm happy to recommend. I'm happy to recommend and give this one 4.5*.
Esme Donaldson loves her job in the library. Devastated to be widowed due to the war, it is another knock when she is told that her job has to be cut. Worried about what she's going to do and how she's going to pay her rent, Esme is thrilled to land the job of librarian at Redcliffe Manor, a grand estate in the heart of the Somerset countryside. Not only is the job ideal for her, but accommodation is provided making her life far easier. As she settles in, she realises that this is not ordinary estat e as a girls' school has been relocated there and an American military hospital is being constructed in the grounds; there is plenty going on!
This is fiction based on fact and the author's diligence in research shines through. Not only focusing on life in the manor, we also follow family life and it is both interesting and enlightening on so many levels. Thoroughly enjoyable, and one I'm happy to recommend. I'm happy to recommend and give this one 4.5*.
June 16, 2025
I finished the book wishing I had known Sir Giles as he was such a lovely old man!
It was a heart warming and easy read and nice to be based around something different whilst still have the war storyline weaved into it. I found the middle of the book a bit slow but the last third was exceptional. It was satisfying when Muriel got her comeuppance although I did have an inkling it was coming!
Although I was aware of segregation of blacks during the war by America it was a harsh reminder of how cruel the human race can be. No matter what their skin colour these people were prepared to fight for their country and should have been treated equally with respect and care.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy historical fiction. Molly is a great author and I look forward to her next title.
With thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and of course the author for allowing me to read and review an Arc copy.
It was a heart warming and easy read and nice to be based around something different whilst still have the war storyline weaved into it. I found the middle of the book a bit slow but the last third was exceptional. It was satisfying when Muriel got her comeuppance although I did have an inkling it was coming!
Although I was aware of segregation of blacks during the war by America it was a harsh reminder of how cruel the human race can be. No matter what their skin colour these people were prepared to fight for their country and should have been treated equally with respect and care.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy historical fiction. Molly is a great author and I look forward to her next title.
With thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and of course the author for allowing me to read and review an Arc copy.
June 17, 2025
I was quickly absorbed into this and with my experiences of Molly Green’s other fantastic books, I knew this one was going to be a winner too. Her previous Bletchley series was amongst one of my very favourites so she’s very much an auto read author for me! She really is great at writing wartime historical fiction.
This one was true to form, awesome read. Getting to know a new character always feels like a treat and none are easier to root for than Esmerelda. She’s had a lot to overcome and when she finds herself laid off and looking for a new job, she somewhat lands on her feet maintaining a library and writing Sir Giles’ memoir at Redcliffe Manor House.
She faces her challenges but I was there in every page, rooting for her and eager to find out what was going to happen. Books like these make for such easy and enjoyable reading!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
This one was true to form, awesome read. Getting to know a new character always feels like a treat and none are easier to root for than Esmerelda. She’s had a lot to overcome and when she finds herself laid off and looking for a new job, she somewhat lands on her feet maintaining a library and writing Sir Giles’ memoir at Redcliffe Manor House.
She faces her challenges but I was there in every page, rooting for her and eager to find out what was going to happen. Books like these make for such easy and enjoyable reading!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
June 29, 2025
You really can't go wrong with a historical novel by Molly Green, and The Wartime Librarian's Secret is no exception.
This time we meet Esme Donaldson, a librarian who takes a dream job at an English country manor that has been pressed into service by the country's war machine during WWII. This is part family drama, part home front story, part romance, and in large part a story of overcoming past adversity to start life anew. Superbly written and well researched, this novel grabs hold of you with relatable characters and a story that never lets up.
I highly recommend this and any others of Green's books; they make history come alive as mere facts can never do. I always know that I will enjoy whatever book has her name on it.
Thank you for the ARC of #TheWartimeLibrariansSecret to #NetGalley.
This time we meet Esme Donaldson, a librarian who takes a dream job at an English country manor that has been pressed into service by the country's war machine during WWII. This is part family drama, part home front story, part romance, and in large part a story of overcoming past adversity to start life anew. Superbly written and well researched, this novel grabs hold of you with relatable characters and a story that never lets up.
I highly recommend this and any others of Green's books; they make history come alive as mere facts can never do. I always know that I will enjoy whatever book has her name on it.
Thank you for the ARC of #TheWartimeLibrariansSecret to #NetGalley.
July 30, 2025
After losing her job, Esme finds herself employed as a librarian in a stately home. The house has been taken over by a girls boarding school upon the instructions of the wartime Government, and an American hospital has been built in the grounds. Can Esme learn to get along with her grumpy employer, and understand her feelings for US Colonel Brad Parker?
Lots of tricky subject matter is tackled, including racism, law ad health, and they are handled sensitively, although brought me to tears a number of times. I did find myself a bit confused by the writing style - sometimes slipped into the first person in the middle of chapters which did become irritating, but it was a quick enjoyable read nonetheless.
Lots of tricky subject matter is tackled, including racism, law ad health, and they are handled sensitively, although brought me to tears a number of times. I did find myself a bit confused by the writing style - sometimes slipped into the first person in the middle of chapters which did become irritating, but it was a quick enjoyable read nonetheless.
September 26, 2025
I have long followed Molly Green’s writing and this latest, didn’t disappoint. One grows very tired of authors who make a name for themselves in a genre and then become lazy - ropey plots, mistakes, little or no research and very irritating physical changes to the protagonists throughout the book. Molly never lets me down. Her research is meticulous and faultless. The grammar is excellent. Her characters ring true and goodness only knows how she keeps coming up with plots for scenarios in WW2 that are little known to the general public. I adored this book with its welcome shift to Bath, a malicious character or two and of course, romance. Sir Giles has a special place in my lexicon of loveable characters.
October 30, 2025
an absolutely wonderful book, eventually I will read it again.
416 pages in this book I don’t normally read this many pages because I become bored but when I began reading it, I knew this was one of those books I would not put down. And growing up with parents that were in World War II in England, I became more and more interested page by page. Normally, you can figure out what the ending will be this one for sure I did not figure the ending on this, on more characters in the book. I am looking forward to reading other books by this author anyone who can possibly find this book, you definitely will enjoy it.
416 pages in this book I don’t normally read this many pages because I become bored but when I began reading it, I knew this was one of those books I would not put down. And growing up with parents that were in World War II in England, I became more and more interested page by page. Normally, you can figure out what the ending will be this one for sure I did not figure the ending on this, on more characters in the book. I am looking forward to reading other books by this author anyone who can possibly find this book, you definitely will enjoy it.
August 4, 2025
What a brilliant story enjoyed every minute of this book and could not put it down.
It had everything romance and sadness. I enjoyed all the characters they were interesting and there was no one that I thought didn’t work with the book. I liked the bit in the solicitors office thought it was good that the way things turned out was nice.
It was well written and the interesting bit about the segregation in the USA army hospital that was the way they dealt and it is sad.
I certainly would recommend this book.
It had everything romance and sadness. I enjoyed all the characters they were interesting and there was no one that I thought didn’t work with the book. I liked the bit in the solicitors office thought it was good that the way things turned out was nice.
It was well written and the interesting bit about the segregation in the USA army hospital that was the way they dealt and it is sad.
I certainly would recommend this book.
August 20, 2025
thoroughly enjoyed this book. dealt with various themes, WW2 - family issues, widowhood, jobs, and landing a dream job and many too. loved the little twists and turns, and when you think you know what's happening - bang, something gets in the way. but you know it will all come right in the end. and it does.
so happy for the way it ends, and especially the comeuppance for Muriel, so so happy for Esme, and Stella was the best friend you could ever have a chance meeting with and become besties with.
a new great author I need to read more from.
so happy for the way it ends, and especially the comeuppance for Muriel, so so happy for Esme, and Stella was the best friend you could ever have a chance meeting with and become besties with.
a new great author I need to read more from.
December 25, 2025
An enjoyable read. Loved the main characters and the setting was great and brought back memories of my time living in Bath. The only criticism is I felt too much was going on and brushed on heavy topics which could have been explored more or became more of the focus in the story. Given the title of the book, I struggled to ascertain which secret it was referring to. I would recommend this book as a one time read and I probably would explore more of Molly Greens novels.
September 27, 2025
This historic fiction novel takes place in WWiI in Bath, England. When Esme loses her job as assistant librarian, another opportunity arises at Radcliffe Manor. Hires to assist the aging owner organize his library, she also helps him complete his memoirs. When the Americans set up a temporary hospital on the property, she meets Dr Brad. It a story of life during the war and it’s a good one!
July 17, 2025
Poor Esme. She was grieving a giant loss, as well as losing her job.
After meeting a woman in a cafe, she gets a chance at a job at Redcliffe Manor in Somerset. She ends up taking the role of the manor’s librarian.
Redcliffe Manor was a huge estate that had to be changed into a displaced girls’ boarding school, and the grounds made into an American military hospital.
I felt for Esme; her grief was profound.
An American colonel and part of the hospital meet Esme, and the chemistry is immediately apparent.
I loved reading about Esme’s character development, from a grief-stricken widow to a strong, confident librarian.
I constantly wondered if Esme would face her past and move on from it. The outcome was so good and exactly what I needed.
After meeting a woman in a cafe, she gets a chance at a job at Redcliffe Manor in Somerset. She ends up taking the role of the manor’s librarian.
Redcliffe Manor was a huge estate that had to be changed into a displaced girls’ boarding school, and the grounds made into an American military hospital.
I felt for Esme; her grief was profound.
An American colonel and part of the hospital meet Esme, and the chemistry is immediately apparent.
I loved reading about Esme’s character development, from a grief-stricken widow to a strong, confident librarian.
I constantly wondered if Esme would face her past and move on from it. The outcome was so good and exactly what I needed.
July 18, 2025
This is a fascinating WWII story of a woman who has lost her husband and her job during the war. She takes a job in a manor as the librarian. The manor is full of more than books. I won’t say more as to not let out spoilers. Great story!
August 22, 2025
What a very enjoyable book this was to read. The author seems to have quite a knack of writing these war-time based books. Nothing complicated in this book, just great characters you got into and a very enjoyable storyline to keep you engaged.
September 20, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down I was captivated from the first page to the last. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it will not be the last. I would definitely recommend reading this book.
December 16, 2025
WWII Bath, England. There were some interesting pieces but unfortunately it was rather a long slog of two people not being forthright with each other for 300 pages. I love WWII stories but expect to read something fresh about it. This book did not provide that.
July 20, 2025
This was the first book I’ve read written by Molly Green and I was gripped from start to finish. I can’t wait to read her other books now.
September 9, 2025
Loving this story, I really enjoy these wartime stories.
September 17, 2025
an enjoyable read
October 3, 2025
Excellent
I love Molly Green's books, they are all such wonderful stories with a lot of history in them too. I can't wait to read more
I love Molly Green's books, they are all such wonderful stories with a lot of history in them too. I can't wait to read more
December 20, 2025
A brilliant book written by Molly Green and trying to work out what Esme's secret is
July 14, 2025
I am always amazed by the stories authors create. Molly Green has created a wonderful story of World War Two historical fiction. It doesn't just give the reader glimpses of one or two issues. The story is filled with secondary stories to touch at the heart of the reader.
Esme stumbles into a new life after being let go by the Bath Library. She had loved her job, but budget cuts left her unemployed. As luck would have it, drowning one's sorrows in tea can be the beginning she needed.
Working at Redcliffe Manor would be many readers dream job. Esme will be moving and organizing thousands of books including first editions. The British goverment has taken over part of the manor, providing space for a girl's school. The American government has taken over part of the landscape building hut after hut creating a hospital. I loved all the different stories that branch out from her new job. So many hours of lovely entertainment.
I have come to expect a romance when I read this type of story. Molly Green did not disappoint. Esme is healing from tragedy, reminding us of the horrors of war. It must be fate when she keeps coming across Colonel Parker, an American doctor.
The Wartime Librarian's Secret doesn't just contain stories of the British during WW2. The healing American soldiers give glimpses into issues in America and fighting in England. Esme's brilliance will make their lives better. And when Queen Mary comes to the manor get ready to fall in love with Queen Mary. She adds class and a bright spot to a time that always leaves me crying.
Esme stumbles into a new life after being let go by the Bath Library. She had loved her job, but budget cuts left her unemployed. As luck would have it, drowning one's sorrows in tea can be the beginning she needed.
Working at Redcliffe Manor would be many readers dream job. Esme will be moving and organizing thousands of books including first editions. The British goverment has taken over part of the manor, providing space for a girl's school. The American government has taken over part of the landscape building hut after hut creating a hospital. I loved all the different stories that branch out from her new job. So many hours of lovely entertainment.
I have come to expect a romance when I read this type of story. Molly Green did not disappoint. Esme is healing from tragedy, reminding us of the horrors of war. It must be fate when she keeps coming across Colonel Parker, an American doctor.
The Wartime Librarian's Secret doesn't just contain stories of the British during WW2. The healing American soldiers give glimpses into issues in America and fighting in England. Esme's brilliance will make their lives better. And when Queen Mary comes to the manor get ready to fall in love with Queen Mary. She adds class and a bright spot to a time that always leaves me crying.
November 2, 2025
Esme Donaldson, is still grieving her husband and now she has to face losing her job and her home.
However, she gets the chance to work at Redcliffe Manor, where the library needs cataloguing as well as moving rooms within the manor. On top of this, the 'lord' of the manor wishes to record his memoirs and needs help, so she finds herself very much immersed in the comings and goings of the place.
The Manor now being used as a school, also with an American Military Hospital based in the grounds as well, is the place that can give Esme a job, a home and possibly a future as well.
With the added worry of her father's failing health and her stepmothers lack of care as well as the interest from an American colonel, Esme finds herself in a very different place.
Set with the backdrop of the Second World War, this book explores the Home Front, the American's based in the UK, the relocation of schools to requisitioned sprawling estates, as well as finding a new way of life and overcoming past upsets. Of course no saga would be complete without some sort of romance and that is very much threaded throughout as well.
Another excellent book from Molly Green, that places you in the past and lets you experience it. Perfect for fans of historical sagas which go that bit deeper.
However, she gets the chance to work at Redcliffe Manor, where the library needs cataloguing as well as moving rooms within the manor. On top of this, the 'lord' of the manor wishes to record his memoirs and needs help, so she finds herself very much immersed in the comings and goings of the place.
The Manor now being used as a school, also with an American Military Hospital based in the grounds as well, is the place that can give Esme a job, a home and possibly a future as well.
With the added worry of her father's failing health and her stepmothers lack of care as well as the interest from an American colonel, Esme finds herself in a very different place.
Set with the backdrop of the Second World War, this book explores the Home Front, the American's based in the UK, the relocation of schools to requisitioned sprawling estates, as well as finding a new way of life and overcoming past upsets. Of course no saga would be complete without some sort of romance and that is very much threaded throughout as well.
Another excellent book from Molly Green, that places you in the past and lets you experience it. Perfect for fans of historical sagas which go that bit deeper.
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