About the Book

In 1942, an impulsive promise to her brother before he goes off to the European front puts Avis Montgomery in the unlikely position of head librarian in small-town Maine. Though she has never been much of a reader, when wartime needs threaten to close the library, she invents a book club to keep its doors open. The women she convinces to attend the first meeting couldn’t be more different–a wealthy spinster determined to aid the war effort, an exhausted mother looking for a fresh start, and a determined young war worker.

At first, the struggles of the home front are all the club members have in common, but over time, the books they choose become more than an escape from the hardships of life and the fear of the U-boat battles that rage just past their shores. As the women face personal challenges and band together in the face of danger, they find they have more in common than they think. But when their growing friendships are tested by secrets of the past and present, they must decide whether depending on each other is worth the cost.

Includes a book club discussion guide and The Blackout Book Club book list

“A salute to the power of books and of friendship!”–SARAH SUNDIN, bestselling and award-winning author of Until Leaves Fall in Paris

“The Blackout Book Club is an engaging story that illustrates the power of books to unite and encourage us in trying times. . . . A wonderful read.”–LYNN AUSTIN, author of Long Way Home

Amazon | B&N | BAM! | Book Depository | Christianbook | IndieBound | Goodreads

In My Opinion

The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green will take you from the seedlings of friendship from planting to harvest through the common denominator of literature.

There are several viewpoints in this story (plus some timeline shifts) which made it a little challenging to get into the story. Yes, the many POVs (points of view) are necessary to show us how different the main characters’ lives are, but it also takes away from deeper character development and connection. I think maybe Jenny and Avis were the two I might remember from this story.

I appreciate that the author tackles the second world war from the US home front, including the fear, worry, and heartache those in America felt throughout. While I liked the story, specifically the book club meetings and the variety of books the group read, it was a little too predictable for me. Nothing really stood out to make this book shine above others available.

Disclosure statement: I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.