‘A New Chapter at the Little Penguin Bookshop By Joanna Toye

‘A New Chapter at the Little Penguin Bookshop’ is the second book in the ‘The Little Penguin Bookshop’ series by Joanna Toye.

Carrie Anderson’s business selling books at her local train station is thriving and, with her beloved Mike returned from war, everything feels as though it is falling into place. That is, until Mike is sent to Washington as a liaison between Britain and America. When her twin brother, Johnnie, a fighter pilot, is injured, and her bookstall falls on hard times, Carrie misses the sage advice and comfort of Mike more than ever. Bolstered by her supportive station community, can Carrie battle through this challenging new chapter and reach the happy ending she deserves?

I’m not the biggest fan of historical fiction, infact it’s one genre I don’t read much off so when I was offered the chance to read ’A New Chapter at the Little Penguin Bookshop’ i was delighted to give it a go.

Set against the backdrop of the World War II, this story delves into the impacts it had on different people’s lives, romantically and professionally. Carrie runs the Little Penguin Bookshop at the train station and her little shop brings the welcome distraction of escapism whilst the war roars overhead. Her love, Mike has proposed to her making her the happiest woman in the world but unfortunately he has to go to Washington to help the Americans and because of this, the big day is put on hold. Whilst everyone else’s lives moves on, Carrie’s is in limbo as she awaits Mike’s safe return and her little shop is at stake of being closed down.

I really enjoyed this story, even though it’s set during the war, it’s hopeful and uplifting. The characters are fantastic, strong and determined women particularly Carrie and her friend Penny who gave up a comfortable and wealthy life for her own independence. Whilst people try to keep calm and carry on, it’s heartbreaking to read of young lives that are lost and the tragedies that they suffer from the riots, lost lives, business and despair.

Beautifully written ‘A New Chapter at the Little Penguin Bookshop’ is a wonderful, romantic story that really captures the readers hearts with its engaging characters, optimistic spirit and sense of community throughout.

You can preorder ‘A New Chapter at the Little Penguin Bookshop’ from Amazon and will be available to buy from good bookshops from 16th January 2025.