This book blends historical fiction, magical realism, and a touch of romance, all wrapped in a love letter to books. Told in dual timelines, the story that stayed with me most was Opaline’s—set in 1920s England. She dreams of becoming a book dealer, a love instilled in her by her father. Her journey takes her to a charming bookstore in Dublin, where she carves out a slice of her dream before life knocks her down again.
In the present timeline, Martha is on the run from an abusive marriage and finds work as a housekeeper. Henry, a PhD student chasing a lost manuscript and a mysterious bookshop, crosses paths with her. I’ll admit, the contemporary storyline didn’t grip me as much as the historical one, but the plot does pick up pace in the second half.
Overall, this is a lovely read—especially for classic book lovers. There’s something magical about the idea of a hidden bookshop waiting to be discovered.
Anna Bushi 