Deliver toUnited Arab Emirates
The Keeper of Lost Things: A Novel

Description:

Full of character, wit, and wisdom, The Keeper of Lost Things is heartwarming tale that will enchant fans of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake, Garden Spells, Mrs Queen Takes the Train, and The Silver Linings Playbook.

Lime green plastic flower-shaped hair bobbles—Found, on the playing field, Derrywood Park, 2nd September.

Bone china cup and saucer—Found, on a bench in Riveria Public Gardens, 31st October.

Anthony Peardew is the keeper of lost things. Forty years ago, he carelessly lost a keepsake from his beloved fiancée, Therese. That very same day, she died unexpectedly. Brokenhearted, Anthony sought consolation in rescuing lost objects—the things others have dropped, misplaced, or accidently left behind—and writing stories about them. Now, in the twilight of his life, Anthony worries that he has not fully discharged his duty to reconcile all the lost things with their owners. As the end nears, he bequeaths his secret life’s mission to his unsuspecting assistant, Laura, leaving her his house and and all its lost treasures, including an irritable ghost.

Recovering from a bad divorce, Laura, in some ways, is one of Anthony’s lost things. But when the lonely woman moves into his mansion, her life begins to change. She finds a new friend in the neighbor’s quirky daughter, Sunshine, and a welcome distraction in Freddy, the rugged gardener. As the dark cloud engulfing her lifts, Laura, accompanied by her new companions, sets out to realize Anthony’s last wish: reuniting his cherished lost objects with their owners.

Long ago, Eunice found a trinket on the London pavement and kept it through the years. Now, with her own end drawing near, she has lost something precious—a tragic twist of fate that forces her to break a promise she once made.

As the Keeper of Lost Objects, Laura holds the key to Anthony and Eunice’s redemption. But can she unlock the past and make the connections that will lay their spirits to rest?

A charming, clever, and quietly moving novel of of endless possibilities and joyful discoveries that explores the promises we make and break, losing and finding ourselves, the objects that hold magic and meaning for our lives, and the surprising connections that bind us.


Editorial Reviews

Review

“From the attention-grabbing opening paragraph, to the joyful conclusion, Ruth Hogan has stirred together a charming fairytale in which the people may be more lost than the things; and generosity and compassion may be the key to finding a way home. Also there are dogs. Delightful.” — Helen Simonson, author of The Summer Before the War and Major Pettigrew's Last Stand

“A beautiful story of love, loss, and the redemptive power of friendship.” — Catherine Hall, author of The Proof of Love

“Hogan’s writing has the soothing warmth of the cups of cocoa and tea her characters regularly dispense…old-fashioned storytelling with a sprinkling of magic.” — Kirkus

“Hogan’s first novel reveals how even discarded items have significance and seemingly random objects, people, and places are all interconnected.” — Booklist

From the Back Cover

Anthony Peardew is the Keeper of Lost Things. Once a celebrated author of short stories, now in his twilight years, Anthony has sought consolation from the long-ago loss of his fiancée by lovingly rescuing lost objects—the things others have dropped, misplaced, or accidently left behind. Realizing that he’s running out of time, he leaves his beautiful house and all the collected treasures to his unsuspecting assistant, Laura, the one person he trusts to fulfill his legacy.

Recovering from a bad divorce, Laura is in some ways one of Anthony’s lost things. But when she moves into his lovely old Victorian mansion, her life suddenly begins to change. Anthony’s final wishes set in motion a most serendipitous series of encounters as Laura sets out to realize Anthony’s last wish: reuniting his cherished lost objects with their owners. 

With an unforgettable cast of characters that includes a teenage girl with special powers, a handsome gardener, a fussy ghost, and an array of irresistible four-legged friends, The Keeper of Lost Things is a heartwarming read about second chances, endless possibilities, and joyful discoveries.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read!

J. · April 13, 2025

This captivating audiobook has left an indelible mark on my heart, and its themes will linger in my mind for a while. The narrative elicited a wide range of emotions, including anger, frustration, sadness, love, loss, adoration, happiness, fear, and admiration. Despite initially experiencing the story through audiobook format, I intend to purchase a hard copy. The vignettes woven throughout the narrative were poignant and relatable, resonating deeply with me. The plot was equally engaging, and I admired the strong bond formed by the characters, which resembled a makeshift family unit. As someone who enjoys “people watching,” I found this book to be a unique opportunity to do so through the lens of a story. Ultimately, the story serves as a reminder that even the smallest items (or actions) can hold significant meaning for others.

4.0 out of 5 stars The Keeper of Lost Things

B. · August 5, 2025

I had a little trouble at first that I’m not sure of. I struggled in my reading not really getting in too deep but the writing and characters were so interesting I buckled down and really enjoyed it.The idea of lost things and how they can make such a difference in your life was very interesting. The love stories, the sadness, and anger was very well written. By the end of the book, I was all involved in everyone’s story. Loved it definitely worth the read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Settle in with the "lovely cup of tea" and enjoy a great read!

B.M. · March 27, 2019

“Anthony saw all of this in Laura and knew that he had chosen well. She understood that everything had a value greater than money; it had a story, a memory, and most importantly a unique place in the life of Padua.”Short story writer, Anthony Peardew, tragically lost the love of his life too early. As a result, he spent the remainder of his life lovingly collecting and cataloging lost items (such as buttons, puzzle pieces, and cremated ashes). He did this with the hope of bringing joy to people by reuniting them with their special lost items. As the novel begins, Anthony is near the end of his life and decides to leave his sanctuary-like house, named Padua, to his housekeeper Laura with the request that she continues his work of trying to reunite the lost items with their owners. Thus begins Laura’s story as she works through this request, comes to know Anthony’s full story, makes Padua her home, heals her own wounds, and steps out into “real life”.I finished this book and immediately thought – what a sweet book! Not sweet in the saccharine sense, but in a charming, feel-good way. To me, this book was reminiscent of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. Hogan masterfully wove stories within stories. As Laura’s story progressed, Anthony’s story unfolded and the stories behind many of the lost items were revealed. The characters in each of the narratives danced around one other – sometimes coming together and interacting, and other times only being in each other’s orbit. I found it refreshing that the author did not feel the need to connect everyone in the end.Hogan’s novel was imbued with British humor that had me laughing out loud throughout the book. There was also a touch of the mystical as the ghost of Anthony’s fiancée, Therese, made her restless presence known by haunting Padua. I also appreciated many of the author’s references like naming Anthony after Saint Anthony of Padua (the patron saint of lost things) and his last name Peardew was suggestive of the French word “perdu” meaning lost. Obviously, the theme of loss played a major role in this novel. Even the characters that were drawn to Padua (Laura, Freddy the gardener, Sunshine the neighbor, and Sunshine’s parents) were lost people who found solace, sanctuary, and healing in the house. Other themes included grief, reunion, love, and how seemingly insignificant things/moments/people can have powerful meanings.I loved this book. Ruth Hogan presents a cleverly imaginative and whimsical novel. After I finished reading it and understood the arc of the story, I wanted to go back and reread it immediately to find and appreciate more of the author’s nuisances. I highly recommend this book – settle in with “the lovely cup of tea” and enjoy!

3.0 out of 5 stars Easy Read with a Few Surprises

j. · July 27, 2023

Lost Things is an easy read that I got through in a few days. Overall, it seems like it wants to have a positive message, but many of the "lost things" back stories are depressing and dark. I found myself not really caring when a connection with the main characters was revealed. However, I enjoyed the character of the young girl and I could help thinking that if I met her in real life, I would immediately take a liking to her.

4.0 out of 5 stars A masterclass

J.J. · July 11, 2025

I was in love with this book from chapter one. From the very lightly exaggerated magical realism, to the flawed characters to the lovely web of stories that connected everyone. I savored it as long as I could and felt very satisfied with the tidy, though sorrowful, bow it ended on.I would read another by Ruth Hogan. She is the perfect balance of comfort, a gentle hug for anyone dealing with the types of people and situations she's portrayed, and a firm tug on the boot straps to stop waffling and do the scary thing already.

5.0 out of 5 stars All the feelings

R. · February 13, 2025

I loved this. I experienced all the emotions while reading this book. Laughter, hope, heartbreak, despair, joy... The writing was engaging and drew me in pretty immediately. I wasn't totally sold until the first vignette about the puzzle piece. I cackled with glee and continued to think about it and giggle days later. Laura is so beautifully flawed, her own worst enemy & biggest critic - aren't we all? I adored Sunshine. I thought the ending was lovely and pretty perfect. I enjoyed that we got some closure regarding some of the vignettes, too.

5.0 out of 5 stars A book to be savored

A.C. · January 18, 2024

What a lovely, delightful story. I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters - men, women, dogs, with the exception of one rather minor one.This is a book to be read slowly and savored. I limited the number of pages I read at each sitting, not a usual occurrence for me, so that I could keep the story and characters with me and not have to see it all end. And the ending was most satisfying.Ms. Hogan is quite a wit - I actually laughed out loud many times. There were sad parts as well, but not necessarily depressing.I enjoyed the way one story line from the past was brought forward and incorporated so well into what I would consider the main story.Job well done, Ruth Hogan. Thank you!

Magical

A.C. · June 6, 2018

Couldn't find it in any bookstore in my town but Bolo helped me find it.As for the book, reading it gives you the feeling you get standing under the sun on a winter morning in a garden full of flowers. Even in its crescendo, it is as smooth as a wave toppling over before hitting the beach.

Regalo

M. · April 9, 2019

Per quanto riguarda acquisto e spedizione ottimo. Spero che il regalo sia piaciuto anche se personalmente non ho letto il libro.

A Story That Gently Stays With You

M.Q. · June 14, 2025

This book found me at the right time. The Keeper of Lost Things felt like a warm, quiet companion—filled with tenderness, hope, and a touch of magic. I connected deeply with the characters and the idea that even lost things (and people) can find their way home. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t shout, but lingers in your thoughts long after the last page.

Accattivante

A. · November 4, 2024

Strana storia, ma innovativa

Quick

L. · April 3, 2019

Fun

The Keeper of Lost Things: A Novel

Product ID: U0062473557
Condition: New

4.2

AED8170

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

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All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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More from this brand

Similar items from “Ghosts”

The Keeper of Lost Things: A Novel

Product ID: U0062473557
Condition: New

4.2

The Keeper of Lost Things: A Novel-0
Type: Paperback

AED8170

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

Full of character, wit, and wisdom, The Keeper of Lost Things is heartwarming tale that will enchant fans of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake, Garden Spells, Mrs Queen Takes the Train, and The Silver Linings Playbook.

Lime green plastic flower-shaped hair bobbles—Found, on the playing field, Derrywood Park, 2nd September.

Bone china cup and saucer—Found, on a bench in Riveria Public Gardens, 31st October.

Anthony Peardew is the keeper of lost things. Forty years ago, he carelessly lost a keepsake from his beloved fiancée, Therese. That very same day, she died unexpectedly. Brokenhearted, Anthony sought consolation in rescuing lost objects—the things others have dropped, misplaced, or accidently left behind—and writing stories about them. Now, in the twilight of his life, Anthony worries that he has not fully discharged his duty to reconcile all the lost things with their owners. As the end nears, he bequeaths his secret life’s mission to his unsuspecting assistant, Laura, leaving her his house and and all its lost treasures, including an irritable ghost.

Recovering from a bad divorce, Laura, in some ways, is one of Anthony’s lost things. But when the lonely woman moves into his mansion, her life begins to change. She finds a new friend in the neighbor’s quirky daughter, Sunshine, and a welcome distraction in Freddy, the rugged gardener. As the dark cloud engulfing her lifts, Laura, accompanied by her new companions, sets out to realize Anthony’s last wish: reuniting his cherished lost objects with their owners.

Long ago, Eunice found a trinket on the London pavement and kept it through the years. Now, with her own end drawing near, she has lost something precious—a tragic twist of fate that forces her to break a promise she once made.

As the Keeper of Lost Objects, Laura holds the key to Anthony and Eunice’s redemption. But can she unlock the past and make the connections that will lay their spirits to rest?

A charming, clever, and quietly moving novel of of endless possibilities and joyful discoveries that explores the promises we make and break, losing and finding ourselves, the objects that hold magic and meaning for our lives, and the surprising connections that bind us.


Editorial Reviews

Review

“From the attention-grabbing opening paragraph, to the joyful conclusion, Ruth Hogan has stirred together a charming fairytale in which the people may be more lost than the things; and generosity and compassion may be the key to finding a way home. Also there are dogs. Delightful.” — Helen Simonson, author of The Summer Before the War and Major Pettigrew's Last Stand

“A beautiful story of love, loss, and the redemptive power of friendship.” — Catherine Hall, author of The Proof of Love

“Hogan’s writing has the soothing warmth of the cups of cocoa and tea her characters regularly dispense…old-fashioned storytelling with a sprinkling of magic.” — Kirkus

“Hogan’s first novel reveals how even discarded items have significance and seemingly random objects, people, and places are all interconnected.” — Booklist

From the Back Cover

Anthony Peardew is the Keeper of Lost Things. Once a celebrated author of short stories, now in his twilight years, Anthony has sought consolation from the long-ago loss of his fiancée by lovingly rescuing lost objects—the things others have dropped, misplaced, or accidently left behind. Realizing that he’s running out of time, he leaves his beautiful house and all the collected treasures to his unsuspecting assistant, Laura, the one person he trusts to fulfill his legacy.

Recovering from a bad divorce, Laura is in some ways one of Anthony’s lost things. But when she moves into his lovely old Victorian mansion, her life suddenly begins to change. Anthony’s final wishes set in motion a most serendipitous series of encounters as Laura sets out to realize Anthony’s last wish: reuniting his cherished lost objects with their owners. 

With an unforgettable cast of characters that includes a teenage girl with special powers, a handsome gardener, a fussy ghost, and an array of irresistible four-legged friends, The Keeper of Lost Things is a heartwarming read about second chances, endless possibilities, and joyful discoveries.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read!

J. · April 13, 2025

This captivating audiobook has left an indelible mark on my heart, and its themes will linger in my mind for a while. The narrative elicited a wide range of emotions, including anger, frustration, sadness, love, loss, adoration, happiness, fear, and admiration. Despite initially experiencing the story through audiobook format, I intend to purchase a hard copy. The vignettes woven throughout the narrative were poignant and relatable, resonating deeply with me. The plot was equally engaging, and I admired the strong bond formed by the characters, which resembled a makeshift family unit. As someone who enjoys “people watching,” I found this book to be a unique opportunity to do so through the lens of a story. Ultimately, the story serves as a reminder that even the smallest items (or actions) can hold significant meaning for others.

4.0 out of 5 stars The Keeper of Lost Things

B. · August 5, 2025

I had a little trouble at first that I’m not sure of. I struggled in my reading not really getting in too deep but the writing and characters were so interesting I buckled down and really enjoyed it.The idea of lost things and how they can make such a difference in your life was very interesting. The love stories, the sadness, and anger was very well written. By the end of the book, I was all involved in everyone’s story. Loved it definitely worth the read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Settle in with the "lovely cup of tea" and enjoy a great read!

B.M. · March 27, 2019

“Anthony saw all of this in Laura and knew that he had chosen well. She understood that everything had a value greater than money; it had a story, a memory, and most importantly a unique place in the life of Padua.”Short story writer, Anthony Peardew, tragically lost the love of his life too early. As a result, he spent the remainder of his life lovingly collecting and cataloging lost items (such as buttons, puzzle pieces, and cremated ashes). He did this with the hope of bringing joy to people by reuniting them with their special lost items. As the novel begins, Anthony is near the end of his life and decides to leave his sanctuary-like house, named Padua, to his housekeeper Laura with the request that she continues his work of trying to reunite the lost items with their owners. Thus begins Laura’s story as she works through this request, comes to know Anthony’s full story, makes Padua her home, heals her own wounds, and steps out into “real life”.I finished this book and immediately thought – what a sweet book! Not sweet in the saccharine sense, but in a charming, feel-good way. To me, this book was reminiscent of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. Hogan masterfully wove stories within stories. As Laura’s story progressed, Anthony’s story unfolded and the stories behind many of the lost items were revealed. The characters in each of the narratives danced around one other – sometimes coming together and interacting, and other times only being in each other’s orbit. I found it refreshing that the author did not feel the need to connect everyone in the end.Hogan’s novel was imbued with British humor that had me laughing out loud throughout the book. There was also a touch of the mystical as the ghost of Anthony’s fiancée, Therese, made her restless presence known by haunting Padua. I also appreciated many of the author’s references like naming Anthony after Saint Anthony of Padua (the patron saint of lost things) and his last name Peardew was suggestive of the French word “perdu” meaning lost. Obviously, the theme of loss played a major role in this novel. Even the characters that were drawn to Padua (Laura, Freddy the gardener, Sunshine the neighbor, and Sunshine’s parents) were lost people who found solace, sanctuary, and healing in the house. Other themes included grief, reunion, love, and how seemingly insignificant things/moments/people can have powerful meanings.I loved this book. Ruth Hogan presents a cleverly imaginative and whimsical novel. After I finished reading it and understood the arc of the story, I wanted to go back and reread it immediately to find and appreciate more of the author’s nuisances. I highly recommend this book – settle in with “the lovely cup of tea” and enjoy!

3.0 out of 5 stars Easy Read with a Few Surprises

j. · July 27, 2023

Lost Things is an easy read that I got through in a few days. Overall, it seems like it wants to have a positive message, but many of the "lost things" back stories are depressing and dark. I found myself not really caring when a connection with the main characters was revealed. However, I enjoyed the character of the young girl and I could help thinking that if I met her in real life, I would immediately take a liking to her.

4.0 out of 5 stars A masterclass

J.J. · July 11, 2025

I was in love with this book from chapter one. From the very lightly exaggerated magical realism, to the flawed characters to the lovely web of stories that connected everyone. I savored it as long as I could and felt very satisfied with the tidy, though sorrowful, bow it ended on.I would read another by Ruth Hogan. She is the perfect balance of comfort, a gentle hug for anyone dealing with the types of people and situations she's portrayed, and a firm tug on the boot straps to stop waffling and do the scary thing already.

5.0 out of 5 stars All the feelings

R. · February 13, 2025

I loved this. I experienced all the emotions while reading this book. Laughter, hope, heartbreak, despair, joy... The writing was engaging and drew me in pretty immediately. I wasn't totally sold until the first vignette about the puzzle piece. I cackled with glee and continued to think about it and giggle days later. Laura is so beautifully flawed, her own worst enemy & biggest critic - aren't we all? I adored Sunshine. I thought the ending was lovely and pretty perfect. I enjoyed that we got some closure regarding some of the vignettes, too.

5.0 out of 5 stars A book to be savored

A.C. · January 18, 2024

What a lovely, delightful story. I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters - men, women, dogs, with the exception of one rather minor one.This is a book to be read slowly and savored. I limited the number of pages I read at each sitting, not a usual occurrence for me, so that I could keep the story and characters with me and not have to see it all end. And the ending was most satisfying.Ms. Hogan is quite a wit - I actually laughed out loud many times. There were sad parts as well, but not necessarily depressing.I enjoyed the way one story line from the past was brought forward and incorporated so well into what I would consider the main story.Job well done, Ruth Hogan. Thank you!

Magical

A.C. · June 6, 2018

Couldn't find it in any bookstore in my town but Bolo helped me find it.As for the book, reading it gives you the feeling you get standing under the sun on a winter morning in a garden full of flowers. Even in its crescendo, it is as smooth as a wave toppling over before hitting the beach.

Regalo

M. · April 9, 2019

Per quanto riguarda acquisto e spedizione ottimo. Spero che il regalo sia piaciuto anche se personalmente non ho letto il libro.

A Story That Gently Stays With You

M.Q. · June 14, 2025

This book found me at the right time. The Keeper of Lost Things felt like a warm, quiet companion—filled with tenderness, hope, and a touch of magic. I connected deeply with the characters and the idea that even lost things (and people) can find their way home. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t shout, but lingers in your thoughts long after the last page.

Accattivante

A. · November 4, 2024

Strana storia, ma innovativa

Quick

L. · April 3, 2019

Fun

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More from this brand

Similar items from “Ghosts”