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The Last Library of Paris
Not yet published
Expected 24 Sep 26Pre-order the sequel to Kindle bestseller The Bookshop of Secrets now! Filled with Kerry's signature warmth and page-turning storytelling, lose yourself in the forgotten library, hidden amongst the sprawling streets of Paris.
*****
Praise for Kerry Barrett'A delicious Art Deco novel with a delightfully acerbic heroine and a cast of fabulously diverse characters having perilous adventures in exotic locations – what more could you want? Lovely fireside reading!' Marius Gabriel
‘What a page turner! A bookshop in wartime Lisbon is the gateway to a thrilling world of mystery, espionage, adventure and romance for brilliant and beautiful Lara' Daisy Wood
'Original and immersive. If you read one Second World War novel in 2025 – make it this one' Eva Glyn
‘A lively trip up the vertiginous backstreets of wartime Lisbon that serves up Nazi spies, Edward and Mrs Simpson and a bookshop with a difference, all seen through the eyes of an engaging young British actress. I lapped it up!’ Eliza Graham
'I was completely swept away by the story of smart, savvy heroine, Lara and the wonderfully, eclectic cast of supporting characters. A must-read for historical fiction fans and for me, Kerry Barrett’s best book yet' Annie Lyons
'A gripping ‘what if’ tale with a larger-than-life heroine at its heart' Tessa Harris
'The ending left me wanting more—these characters are too engaging and too ingenious to disappear into the ether' Historical Novel Society
*****
Praise for Kerry Barrett'A delicious Art Deco novel with a delightfully acerbic heroine and a cast of fabulously diverse characters having perilous adventures in exotic locations – what more could you want? Lovely fireside reading!' Marius Gabriel
‘What a page turner! A bookshop in wartime Lisbon is the gateway to a thrilling world of mystery, espionage, adventure and romance for brilliant and beautiful Lara' Daisy Wood
'Original and immersive. If you read one Second World War novel in 2025 – make it this one' Eva Glyn
‘A lively trip up the vertiginous backstreets of wartime Lisbon that serves up Nazi spies, Edward and Mrs Simpson and a bookshop with a difference, all seen through the eyes of an engaging young British actress. I lapped it up!’ Eliza Graham
'I was completely swept away by the story of smart, savvy heroine, Lara and the wonderfully, eclectic cast of supporting characters. A must-read for historical fiction fans and for me, Kerry Barrett’s best book yet' Annie Lyons
'A gripping ‘what if’ tale with a larger-than-life heroine at its heart' Tessa Harris
'The ending left me wanting more—these characters are too engaging and too ingenious to disappear into the ether' Historical Novel Society
- GenresHistorical Fiction
Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 24, 2026
About the author
Kerry Barrett
10 books45 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author with this name on GR
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 17, 2026
I loved this! I love the sense of adventure and high stakes mixed with her signature wit and humour. I told my friends I was reading a book about WW2 and it was really funny and enjoyable and they all thought I was mad, but Barrett brings the humanity that got us through those times to life in these books.
I loved these characters so much, and just like the Bookshop of Secrets, the atmosphere and setting of both Lisbon and Paris felt so real!
Amazing summer read!
I loved these characters so much, and just like the Bookshop of Secrets, the atmosphere and setting of both Lisbon and Paris felt so real!
Amazing summer read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance review copy.
This book started out a bit slowly for me, but once I became invested in the story, I absolutely loved it. Historical fiction fans, especially those interested in World War II, Nazi occupation, censorship, and the importance of libraries, will find much to appreciate here.
Told through the perspectives of two women working toward the same goal while living in different countries, the novel highlights the courage, determination, and sacrifices ordinary people made during extraordinary times. Their stories show the risks they were willing to take to ensure that books and knowledge remained accessible, even in the face of oppression.
Frances Reed is determined to keep her library open and deliver books to those who need them most. She understands the power of literature and the vital role libraries play in providing hope, education, and connection during difficult times. As the dangers around her increase, her commitment to serving readers never wavers.
Cassie arranges safe passage for those who have nowhere else to turn, risking her own safety to help others escape persecution. Although Frances and Cassie begin their journeys in different places, their stories eventually intertwine as they work together toward a common purpose.
One of the aspects I enjoyed most was the novel's focus on book banning and censorship, and the reminder that access to books should never be taken for granted. The story demonstrates how libraries can become places of resistance and how the simple act of sharing a book can be an act of courage.
The final portion of the book is especially tense. As the danger closes in, I found myself wondering who would survive and whether Frances and Cassie's efforts would succeed. The suspense kept me turning pages until the very end.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction centered on World War II, as well as mature middle school and high school students interested in learning more about this period of history.
This book started out a bit slowly for me, but once I became invested in the story, I absolutely loved it. Historical fiction fans, especially those interested in World War II, Nazi occupation, censorship, and the importance of libraries, will find much to appreciate here.
Told through the perspectives of two women working toward the same goal while living in different countries, the novel highlights the courage, determination, and sacrifices ordinary people made during extraordinary times. Their stories show the risks they were willing to take to ensure that books and knowledge remained accessible, even in the face of oppression.
Frances Reed is determined to keep her library open and deliver books to those who need them most. She understands the power of literature and the vital role libraries play in providing hope, education, and connection during difficult times. As the dangers around her increase, her commitment to serving readers never wavers.
Cassie arranges safe passage for those who have nowhere else to turn, risking her own safety to help others escape persecution. Although Frances and Cassie begin their journeys in different places, their stories eventually intertwine as they work together toward a common purpose.
One of the aspects I enjoyed most was the novel's focus on book banning and censorship, and the reminder that access to books should never be taken for granted. The story demonstrates how libraries can become places of resistance and how the simple act of sharing a book can be an act of courage.
The final portion of the book is especially tense. As the danger closes in, I found myself wondering who would survive and whether Frances and Cassie's efforts would succeed. The suspense kept me turning pages until the very end.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction centered on World War II, as well as mature middle school and high school students interested in learning more about this period of history.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Last Library of Paris by Kerry Barrett is a deeply moving, beautifully written WWII historical fiction novel that serves as a powerful love letter to literature and human resilience. Serving as a highly anticipated sequel to Barrett's Kindle bestseller The Bookshop of Secrets, it blends the tension of wartime espionage with the comforting sanctuary of books.
Why You Should Read It
1. The High-Stakes Premise: In an occupied Paris where shopfronts are going dark and censorship is closing in, librarian Frances Reed risks everything to keep her library open. Believing that stories can save lives, she defies the regime by hand-delivering books to those who need them most.
2. The Connected Dual Narrative: The heart of the story beats through a fragile, secretive network. Frances’s world in Paris intersects with Cassie Watkins, a fierce woman arranging safe passage for refugees out of wartime Lisbon. When a parcel of books connects their missions, it sparks a thrilling web of secrets and underground resistance.
3. Atmospheric and Grounded Worldbuilding: Barrett does not just lean on postcard aesthetics; she expertly captures the real, shadow-filled weight of occupied Paris. The historical detail feels incredibly vivid—from the quiet courage of ordinary citizens to the creeping paranoia of knowing someone is reading between the lines.
4. Uplifting Yet Poignant Tone: Despite the heavy wartime backdrop, the story maintains a signature warmth. It handles dark themes with a gentle touch, emphasizing community, hope, and the enduring power of the written word.
It is an immersive, page-turning must-read for fans of Janet Skeslien Charles’s The Paris Library or anyone who loves emotional "books about books".
Why You Should Read It
1. The High-Stakes Premise: In an occupied Paris where shopfronts are going dark and censorship is closing in, librarian Frances Reed risks everything to keep her library open. Believing that stories can save lives, she defies the regime by hand-delivering books to those who need them most.
2. The Connected Dual Narrative: The heart of the story beats through a fragile, secretive network. Frances’s world in Paris intersects with Cassie Watkins, a fierce woman arranging safe passage for refugees out of wartime Lisbon. When a parcel of books connects their missions, it sparks a thrilling web of secrets and underground resistance.
3. Atmospheric and Grounded Worldbuilding: Barrett does not just lean on postcard aesthetics; she expertly captures the real, shadow-filled weight of occupied Paris. The historical detail feels incredibly vivid—from the quiet courage of ordinary citizens to the creeping paranoia of knowing someone is reading between the lines.
4. Uplifting Yet Poignant Tone: Despite the heavy wartime backdrop, the story maintains a signature warmth. It handles dark themes with a gentle touch, emphasizing community, hope, and the enduring power of the written word.
It is an immersive, page-turning must-read for fans of Janet Skeslien Charles’s The Paris Library or anyone who loves emotional "books about books".
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Last Library of Paris is a heartfelt, atmospheric story that celebrates the quiet bravery of ordinary people and the power of books to sustain hope in the darkest moments. Kerry Barrett brings wartime Paris to life with warmth, tension, and a deep appreciation for the ways stories connect us.
Frances Reed is a wonderfully compelling heroine—steadfast, compassionate, and determined to keep her library open even as the city around her dims under the weight of war. Her commitment to delivering books to those who need them most gives the novel a beautiful emotional core. Barrett captures perfectly how stories can be lifelines, comforts, and acts of resistance.
Cassie Watkins’ storyline adds a gripping parallel thread. Her work arranging safe passage for those with nowhere else to turn is full of danger and quiet heroism, and the way a simple parcel of books links her world to Frances’ is both clever and deeply moving. The fragile network of readers, helpers, and secrets that forms between them feels organic and full of heart.
There’s a gentle suspense running through the novel too—someone else is “reading between the lines,” and the threat of discovery adds a steady undercurrent of tension. Barrett balances this beautifully with moments of connection, courage, and the reminder that even in wartime, kindness persists.
Warm, immersive, and full of emotional resonance, The Last Library of Paris is a lovely tribute to the people who keep stories alive when the world needs them most.
With thanks to Kerry Barrett, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Frances Reed is a wonderfully compelling heroine—steadfast, compassionate, and determined to keep her library open even as the city around her dims under the weight of war. Her commitment to delivering books to those who need them most gives the novel a beautiful emotional core. Barrett captures perfectly how stories can be lifelines, comforts, and acts of resistance.
Cassie Watkins’ storyline adds a gripping parallel thread. Her work arranging safe passage for those with nowhere else to turn is full of danger and quiet heroism, and the way a simple parcel of books links her world to Frances’ is both clever and deeply moving. The fragile network of readers, helpers, and secrets that forms between them feels organic and full of heart.
There’s a gentle suspense running through the novel too—someone else is “reading between the lines,” and the threat of discovery adds a steady undercurrent of tension. Barrett balances this beautifully with moments of connection, courage, and the reminder that even in wartime, kindness persists.
Warm, immersive, and full of emotional resonance, The Last Library of Paris is a lovely tribute to the people who keep stories alive when the world needs them most.
With thanks to Kerry Barrett, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This one started a little slowly for me, but once I became invested in the story, I absolutely loved it.
Told through the perspectives of two remarkable women living in different countries, The Last Library of Paris beautifully captures the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of ordinary people during World War II. Frances is determined to keep her library open and books in the hands of those who need them most, while Cassie risks everything to help people escape persecution. Although their journeys begin separately, their stories eventually intertwine in a powerful and satisfying way.
One of my favorite aspects of the novel was its focus on libraries, censorship, and the importance of preserving access to books. It serves as a poignant reminder that books are more than stories - they are hope, knowledge, and sometimes even an act of resistance.
The final portion of the novel had me completely engrossed. As the danger intensified, I found myself anxiously wondering who would survive and whether their mission would succeed. The suspense kept me turning pages until the very end.
I highly recommend this novel to fans of World War II historical fiction, especially readers who enjoy stories centered on libraries, books, and the incredible bravery of those who fought to preserve them. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Told through the perspectives of two remarkable women living in different countries, The Last Library of Paris beautifully captures the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of ordinary people during World War II. Frances is determined to keep her library open and books in the hands of those who need them most, while Cassie risks everything to help people escape persecution. Although their journeys begin separately, their stories eventually intertwine in a powerful and satisfying way.
One of my favorite aspects of the novel was its focus on libraries, censorship, and the importance of preserving access to books. It serves as a poignant reminder that books are more than stories - they are hope, knowledge, and sometimes even an act of resistance.
The final portion of the novel had me completely engrossed. As the danger intensified, I found myself anxiously wondering who would survive and whether their mission would succeed. The suspense kept me turning pages until the very end.
I highly recommend this novel to fans of World War II historical fiction, especially readers who enjoy stories centered on libraries, books, and the incredible bravery of those who fought to preserve them. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Last Library of Paris is about two women doing their part to fight the Nazis in very different ways during WWII. Frances is an American librarian determined to keep her library open in occupied Paris, while Cassie works at the British Embassy in Lisbon helping refugees escape. Eventually books become the thing that connects their worlds and helps Allied servicemen find their way to safety. As a world history teacher, I've read a lot of WWII fiction and nonfiction, and somehow I had never heard about books being used to secretly communicate escape routes and safe houses. I found that entire part of the story fascinating, especially knowing it was inspired by actual events. Books start out as this source of comfort and normalcy for people living through something horrific, but then they actually became part of the resistance, and I absolutely loved that!
I loved Frances. She's not out there thinking she's going to become some great war hero, she just believes people deserve access to books and refuses to let the Nazis decide who gets to read. She continues getting books to Jewish readers even when doing so puts her in danger. Cassie's work is obviously dangerous in a much more immediate way, but I loved how these two women realized what they could accomplish with the resources they already had.
For a WWII story, I really loved the friendships, the little bits of normalcy, and especially the reminder that resistance doesn't always look huge or heroic. Sometimes it's helping one person escape, passing along information, keeping a library open, or putting the right book into the right person's hands. It was such a great read!
I loved Frances. She's not out there thinking she's going to become some great war hero, she just believes people deserve access to books and refuses to let the Nazis decide who gets to read. She continues getting books to Jewish readers even when doing so puts her in danger. Cassie's work is obviously dangerous in a much more immediate way, but I loved how these two women realized what they could accomplish with the resources they already had.
For a WWII story, I really loved the friendships, the little bits of normalcy, and especially the reminder that resistance doesn't always look huge or heroic. Sometimes it's helping one person escape, passing along information, keeping a library open, or putting the right book into the right person's hands. It was such a great read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Net Galley for the ARC!
The Last Library of Paris is set during the Nazi occupation of France of World War II. We have dual the perspectives of Cassandra, who works for the British embassy in Lisbon and Frances, an American librarian in Paris. When a new Vice Consul, Archie Valentine comes to the British embassy, Cassandra becomes involved in plan to use books to help guide downed airmen in France find the escape routes. This is when Frances’ library in Paris becomes involved to help distribute the books.
This is a sequel, so I was a bit lost at first. We get plopped into lots of dialogue with no context. I would have like to know these character’s back stories as well. I did come really like these characters and the pacing of the book made me want to keep reading to find out what happened next.
I really like these the themes of resistance, spy networks and books to undermine the Nazi regime. It is always uplifting to hear stories of human resilience during such trying times like World War II. I like the tenacity of the characters. It did wrap up kind of quickly and I would have like more details. All in all, it was a well-written, interesting, quick read.
The Last Library of Paris is set during the Nazi occupation of France of World War II. We have dual the perspectives of Cassandra, who works for the British embassy in Lisbon and Frances, an American librarian in Paris. When a new Vice Consul, Archie Valentine comes to the British embassy, Cassandra becomes involved in plan to use books to help guide downed airmen in France find the escape routes. This is when Frances’ library in Paris becomes involved to help distribute the books.
This is a sequel, so I was a bit lost at first. We get plopped into lots of dialogue with no context. I would have like to know these character’s back stories as well. I did come really like these characters and the pacing of the book made me want to keep reading to find out what happened next.
I really like these the themes of resistance, spy networks and books to undermine the Nazi regime. It is always uplifting to hear stories of human resilience during such trying times like World War II. I like the tenacity of the characters. It did wrap up kind of quickly and I would have like more details. All in all, it was a well-written, interesting, quick read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I thoroughly enjoyed this follow up to The Bookshop of Secrets. The story is set in Lisbon following the fortunes of Cassie and Paris with the librarian of the American Library - Frances Reed. She is determined to keep her library open despite the Nazi occupation and continue to serve her local Jewish service. With three helpers she develops this service to become a book service for soldiers - bringing hope into desperate situations.
Cassie arranges safe passage for Jewish refugees to England risking her own safety to help others escape persecution.
Frances’ mission comes to the attention of Cassie and her team who see it as a means to help allied servicemen trying to escape.
Frances and her team are betrayed and a daring rescue is made from Lisbon.
The final chapters are particularly tense and fast paced.
Overall an excellent read.
Cassie arranges safe passage for Jewish refugees to England risking her own safety to help others escape persecution.
Frances’ mission comes to the attention of Cassie and her team who see it as a means to help allied servicemen trying to escape.
Frances and her team are betrayed and a daring rescue is made from Lisbon.
The final chapters are particularly tense and fast paced.
Overall an excellent read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thought this was a good book. The story takes place during World War II and centers around a library in Paris that is trying to stay open despite the war going on around it. It focuses on two different women, Frances and Cassie, whose lives connect through a shipment of books. Frances is doing everything she can to keep the library running and get books to people who need them, while Cassie is helping people find safe passage out of danger.
I liked the historical backdrop and the focus on how much books and community matter during tough times. The story has a good mix of suspense as the characters try to keep their network a secret, and it keeps you interested to see how everything will turn out. It has a few slower moments, but the ending comes together nicely. I recommend giving this a look if you like historical fiction.
I liked the historical backdrop and the focus on how much books and community matter during tough times. The story has a good mix of suspense as the characters try to keep their network a secret, and it keeps you interested to see how everything will turn out. It has a few slower moments, but the ending comes together nicely. I recommend giving this a look if you like historical fiction.
July 1, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
After helping to save hundreds of thousands of British soldiers during World War II, the British Intelligence Service in Lisbon works to help captured British soldiers escape by informing them of a network of safe houses using encoded messages in books. Many of the characters from The Bookshop of Secrets reappear in this story, including Lara. H owever, this time the main character is Cassie, called Sandra in the first book. Based on actual events from World War II, the story is engaging and the characters endearing. You can’t help but marvel at the bravery of these people. Despite the fact that these are fictional characters, knowing that they represent real people and actual events makes this both an incredible and enrapturing story.
After helping to save hundreds of thousands of British soldiers during World War II, the British Intelligence Service in Lisbon works to help captured British soldiers escape by informing them of a network of safe houses using encoded messages in books. Many of the characters from The Bookshop of Secrets reappear in this story, including Lara. H owever, this time the main character is Cassie, called Sandra in the first book. Based on actual events from World War II, the story is engaging and the characters endearing. You can’t help but marvel at the bravery of these people. Despite the fact that these are fictional characters, knowing that they represent real people and actual events makes this both an incredible and enrapturing story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Last Library of Paris was a fun quick read that I’d give a 3.5. This one goes back and forth between Paris and Lisbon with two women whose separate activities converge while trying to help people on their way out of German occupied France. There are quite some side characters and storylines that keep the story flowing but most of the real action starts around the 3/4 mark. I do wish that there was a bit more happening earlier as it did lose me a bit in the middle and made the end feel a bit rushed through. I still liked the main story line and would recommend to anyone looking for a cozier historical fiction with lady spies.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Last Library of Paris will be one of my favorite historical fiction books. The story was written in such a way that I quickly came to love the characters and became deeply invested in their lives. I cared about what happened to each of them and found myself completely drawn into their story.
This book was difficult to put down! The historical setting, unforgettable characters, and emotional depth made it a truly memorable read. I highly recommend The Last Library of Paris to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, books, courage, friendship, and hope.
The Last Library of Paris will be one of my favorite historical fiction books. The story was written in such a way that I quickly came to love the characters and became deeply invested in their lives. I cared about what happened to each of them and found myself completely drawn into their story.
This book was difficult to put down! The historical setting, unforgettable characters, and emotional depth made it a truly memorable read. I highly recommend The Last Library of Paris to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, books, courage, friendship, and hope.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'd just read a different book very similar in nature, so I didn't think I'd like this one. The beginning was very slow; however, once it picked up pace I loved it.
Based loosely on real people and real history, this is the story of the American Library in Paris during WWII. British Intelligence based in the British Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal worked with this library to provide reading material to Allied Forces throughout the region - and quite possibly other information hidden within those pages.
Based loosely on real people and real history, this is the story of the American Library in Paris during WWII. British Intelligence based in the British Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal worked with this library to provide reading material to Allied Forces throughout the region - and quite possibly other information hidden within those pages.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Last Library of Paris is an uplifting ,warm historical novel set in wartime Paris centred on courage and community and ordinary women doing extraordinary acts of bravery .Francis Reed refuse to close her beloved library as she delivers books to those who need them most .Cassis Watkins works to arrange safe passage for vulnerable people creating a duel narrative of bravery and compassion .Great characters fast paced such an enjoyable read .Thank you to Net Galley for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Loved this book! I liked the plot, the character descriptions and the settings. I could see in my mind what it all looked like and as the book progressed the suspense it brought with it. Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for my ARC.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews