Book Review - The Collector of Burned Books

What is it about the written word that causes people to fear it? And what kind of beliefs must one have that they cannot stand against reading what is written from a different point of view? Roseanna M. White probes these questions in her upcoming release, The Collector of Burned Books, in which two literature professors in very different circumstances find themselves both thrown together and pulled apart.

Set during the occupation of Paris in 1940, Corinne Bastien and Christian Bauer find themselves on opposing sides politically. But despite the glaring differences, they find that free thinking and literature brings them together in a dangerous way. Bauer is assigned the task of library protector, including responsibilities at the rather curious Library of the Burned Books, a place with which Corinne is quite familiar. Though their political responsibilities are as different as darkness and light, their intellect and sensibilities find each other in the city filled with strife. White’s research shines in this novel, allowing the reader to see the contrasts and similarities in humanity through focused shaping of the setting and characters. The debates about literature, censorship, and free thought are well balanced and provocative, inspiring the reader to consider their own stance on the situation. The reader is reminded that there is often a very true person hiding beneath the projected facade. Though Corinne and Christian are the main characters, understanding and openness shine in their small corner of the City of Lights. The Collector of Burned Books is an enthralling read for its fiction, and an inspiring one for the light it shines on literature as a valuable conduit for thoughts and ideas.

The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White releases July 15, 2025 and is currently available for preorder from your favorite local bookseller or online:

Baker Book House    Christian Book    Amazon     Barnes & Noble    Walmart

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.