5.0 out of 5 stars Enchanting

R.W. · February 14, 2025

(function() { P.when('cr-A', 'ready').execute(function(A) { if(typeof A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel === 'function') { A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel('review_text_read_more', 'Read more of this review', 'Read less of this review'); } }); })(); .review-text-read-more-expander:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid #2162a1; outline-offset: 2px; border-radius: 5px; } Enchanting, magical, beautifully written—"The Lost Bookshop" by Evie Woods is an absolute treasure. This book is a love letter to literature, to book lovers, and to the idea that stories have the power to heal, transform, and connect us in ways we never expect. It seamlessly blends historical fiction, contemporary drama, and a touch of magical realism, pulling the reader into a world where books aren’t just objects but lifelines. From the very first page, I was captivated by the way Woods wove together mystery, love, and resilience, making this a novel I’ll return to again and again.The story unfolds across two timelines, adding richness and depth to the narrative. In the 1920s, we meet Opaline, a woman ahead of her time, fighting for independence and freedom in a world that wants to confine her. Her journey is filled with betrayal, heartbreak, and an unwavering love for knowledge, becoming centered around the lost bookshop. In the present day, Martha, a woman trying to rebuild her life after escaping an abusive past, and Henry, a lonely academic, find themselves unraveling the mysteries hidden within the bookshop’s forgotten walls. The dual timeline structure makes for an engaging, layered read, slowly revealing how the past and present intertwine in ways both surprising and deeply moving.The characters are beautifully developed and incredibly relatable. Opaline is bold, passionate, and determined, a character you can’t help but root for as she fights against the limitations placed upon her. Martha’s journey of healing and rediscovering her strength is inspiring, while Henry’s transformation from a man stuck in his own mind to someone willing to embrace love and possibility is equally compelling. Each character, though living in different times, carries a quiet longing—for love, for purpose, for belonging. Their stories remind us that no matter when or where we live, we all search for the same things.One of the most powerful aspects of "The Lost Bookshop" is its exploration of women’s struggles for autonomy, both in history and today. Woods doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities women face when they dare to seek independence, whether it’s societal constraints in the 1920s or the lingering trauma of domestic violence in the present. But despite the darkness woven into the story, it never feels hopeless. At its heart, this book is about second chances, about finding light even in the darkest places, and about the incredible strength of women who refuse to be silenced.And then there’s the bookshop itself—more than just a setting, it feels alive, filled with stories and secrets waiting to be discovered. Woods describes it so vividly that I could almost smell the old pages, feel the weight of forgotten books in my hands. It’s the kind of bookshop every reader dreams of stumbling upon, a place where magic lingers in the air. Throughout the novel, there are countless references to books and authors, making it a delight for anyone who finds comfort in literature. If you’ve ever felt the magic of getting lost in a bookstore or library, this novel will speak to your soul.Beyond its literary magic, the novel explores love in its many forms—romantic love, the love of books, the love between friends, and the love that binds found families together. Love appears in the most unexpected places, reminding us that even when life feels shattered, connection and renewal are still within reach. The relationships in this book aren’t simple, but they’re real, showing that love, in any form, is transformative.I truly adored "The Lost Bookshop". By the time I reached the final pages, I found myself wishing I could read "A Place Called Lost", longing for more of this story, these characters, and the beauty of the bookshop itself. "The Lost Bookshop" is a novel filled with hope, heartbreak, and the kind of magic that stays with you long after you turn the final page. For anyone who believes in the power of stories, who understands the enchantment of books and the safe haven they provide, this is an absolute must-read. I already know I’ll be reading it again—and loving it just as much the second time.

4.0 out of 5 stars Intriguing

C.D. · June 10, 2025

I was captivated by the audio book but the ending left me feeling that I had missed something significant. To hopefully find what I missed, I bought the paperback and couldn’t put it down. It was well written. I love bookstores and old books, so I could relate to the author’s obvious love for them. The different timelines meant I had to pay attention throughout the book. I appreciated that the struggles women have been going through for centuries were addressed. Martha stated near the end of the book that she didn’t think Madame Bowden was a ghost even though only she and Henry could see her. There wasn’t a hint as to what she was, nor her whereabouts after she disappeared from her home. The house at #12 magically turned into the old bookshop at the end of the story. However, when asked by the little boy, Martha said that the house at #12 was still there and someone else was living in it. So, if the bookshop was real enough for a little boy to come wandering into, where was it? The mysteries of Madame Bowman and of the bookshop were not addressed at the end, which left me feeling that the book was unfinished.

5.0 out of 5 stars So lovely and intriguing ❤️

K. · June 12, 2025

This is honestly the first review I’ve been compelled to write since grade school required book reports over 20 years ago.This story, written in parallel timelines, is beautiful, fascinating, and heartwarming. The jumps between Opaline’s, Martha’s and Henry’s stories really pull the entire composition together in an almost effortless way. I truly couldn’t put it down and kept reading deep into the night just wondering what happened next (of course on a work night like a foolish child). I love a good “love story” and this one was sublime. I’m not giving anything away, I don’t believe in spoilers-just suffice to say that it will leave you feeling hopeful despite the challenges that everyday life presents.I can’t wait to look further into this author as I found this book on kindle unlimited and chose it on a whim, and I hope whomever reads this novel loves it as much as I did.

5.0 out of 5 stars My MOST Un-favorite!

K.C. · June 4, 2025

Yes, that is true. A novel that uses different characters, different places, different years and different happenings IS NOT the book that I choose to spend my time with. So actually, when I realized that this was how the entire book was going to be written? I was disappointed. But since I had already met the three main characters, what could I do except to read on. This author truly uses her gift in the telling of the story and keeping it all together so that soon I hardly noticed that we had changed years as I was so interested in finding out what was to happen next! I now must say that this book has everything that I want from my reading. I laughed out loud, I chuckled to myself and shed some quiet tears. How could you ask for more? Just don't get lost!

4.0 out of 5 stars an enjoyable read/listen

S. · June 18, 2025

I listened to and read this book in alternating sessions. I enjoyed both the characters and the storyline. The story revolves around the last manuscript written by Emily Brontë, the author of ‘Wuthering Heights,’ which was one of my favorite books and black-and-white movies growing up. I didn’t know this when I picked up the book, so it was a pleasant surprise. Although I wish the ending had been a bit different, I still think it was a good read, and I’m glad I chose it.

5.0 out of 5 stars I got lost in The Lost Bookshop!

T.T.F. · June 16, 2025

I’ll admit, it took me a couple of chapters to get hooked, so give the book the time it deserves. Let yourself get sucked into the story that is so beautifully told. Woods delivers a spectacular story of how we can allow ourselves to become part of the story! I love all that has been placed in this book. It is so special to lead us into a world of surprise and anticipation.

Cheap pirated copy

i. · July 19, 2024

(function() { P.when('cr-A', 'ready').execute(function(A) { if(typeof A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel === 'function') { A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel('review_text_read_more', 'Read more of this review', 'Read less of this review'); } }); })(); .review-text-read-more-expander:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid #2162a1; outline-offset: 2px; border-radius: 5px; } 1⭐ is for the quality of the bookMartha has escaped from an abusive home, seeking refuge in Madame Bowden's house as a housekeeper. Henry is a Ph.D. student who is in a quest for an old lost manuscript, and a lost bookshop. When, the two strangers end up in search of a lost bookshop, which should have been next door to Madame Bowden's house, but isn't! However fate intertwines their paths in the search of the lost bookshop and missing manuscript. The secret becomes more intricate and profound as they begin to unravel it.What secret does the bookshop hold?This book is a charming novel blended with magical realism, historical fiction, bibliophilia, and romance. The story follows three main protagonists which are set in Dublin, London and Paris. It has multiple POVs with a dual timeline; it is narrated back and forth at alternative chapters. Opaline, is a headstrong character who built her own dream against all odds. Martha's character was a polar opposite to Opaline, she was naive and a girl with dreams, holding up to herself. Henry's character was full of ambition and charming. Madame Bowden is my favourite side character, she is quirky and mysterious. The character development was great, and the readers will get to know them throughout the book. The plot and the world build up was impeccable, with unexpected twists and turns. The magical element was subtle and charming. The author's writing was lyrical and whimsical. She also highlights female liberation, domestic abuse, healing and loss. The author was excellent at weaving stories inside a story. I love how beautifully she involved classical literature and those authors in it, which literally gave life to the plot. It was a heartwarming and heartbreaking read. Overall, I devoured every page of this book

Addictive

P. · June 7, 2024

Starts off slow.. Then the momentum picks up as u go.

A beautiful read

B. · May 21, 2025

This was a beautiful read. Told in two time lines there were moments the reader had to think hard but the defining qualities of each character kept the reader on track and in the right time zone.Well developed characters, a lovely pace and a very unique story enthralled. I am loving this author and can’t wait to read more.

Linda historia

X.V. · September 5, 2024

Es una historia que mezcla la fantasía con la realidad, me gustó mucho, se lee muy fácil. Muy interesante cómo se entrelaza la vida de los 3 protagonistas. La historia en general es muy relajada.

I got lost in this wonderful story

M.A.J.S. · June 14, 2025

A story of love, passion, loss, and faith told through the eyes of three characters brought together by fate. I couldnt put it down