I bought this book as I was looking for a holiday read - not too heavy and an easy storyline to follow. I'd say that it ticked both boxes! The plot cleverly develops from various points in the life of Loveday, an introverted young woman, who chooses books as her only friends and finds refuge in an old second-hand bookshop to escape the sorrow and loneliness of her own life. The strands of the story are slowly drawn together, while we meet some colourful characters, like Archie, the excentric bookshop owner; Melody, a chatty if slightly annoying shop helper; and Nathan, a charming and kind-hearted magician and poet. We learn of the secret that the main character tries so hard to keep from everyone and accompany her on a journey of personal growth and discovery, which will eventually make her lower her defences and gain trust in the people who love her.
Although I enjoyed reading this book, I found the style a bit too simplistic and felt that the plot took some too quick and sudden turnings towards the end, which made the ending feel rushed and predictable, hence the three stars.
Although I enjoyed reading this book, I found the style a bit too simplistic and felt that the plot took some too quick and sudden turnings towards the end, which made the ending feel rushed and predictable, hence the three stars.