Review: The Bookbinder by Pip Williams

A Miniature Poodle is lying on a bed with a silk daisie between her front legs and a hardcover book to the left. The book is The Bookbinder by Pip Williams.

The Bookbinder by Pip Williams
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

THE BOOKBINDER by Pip Williams is a captivating journey through the lives of Peggy and Maude, twin sisters navigating the challenges of World War I-era Britain. The rich historical backdrop of Oxford during the war is meticulously researched, providing a vivid setting for the narrative. Peggy's aspirations for education and intellectual growth, despite societal constraints, add depth to the story, making it a compelling feminist historical fiction. Williams skillfully explores the impact of war, the influx of Belgian refugees, and the influenza pandemic on the characters' lives. The intricate details of bookbinding, though criticized for being excessive, contribute to the authenticity of the narrative. The evolving relationship between the sisters and the introduction of intriguing characters, such as the Belgian refugee Lotte and the wounded Bastian, add layers to the narrative. While some find the pacing slow and occasionally bogged down, the overall storytelling and exploration of women's roles in a transformative period make this historical novel a thought-provoking and engaging read.

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