> I've read that a good alternative to abe is book depository, but they are based in UK also, so same story.

The bookdepository is safe, they say they handle the customs fees themselves at import to the EU and everything I ordered from them has VAT taken care of. If by any chance there are issues at anything you order from them, send it back and complain to them. Or check with them before ordering.

Otherwise if new books in english, well, also worth considering the EU amazon stores (amazon also owns the bookdepository). it is amazon but hey, it's by far the biggest selection and most convenient shopping if you are in a non english speaking country.