The Littlest Library by Poppy Alexander is one of my favourite "feel-good" novels. As a book fairy myself, the topic of someone starting a little free library in their village was already a winning concept, but the story really cemented itself as one of my favs because of Poppy's wonderfully cosy setting and great characters. Two things her latest novel are also in abundance of!
About How to Find a Romance in a Bookshop by Poppy Alexander
After a social media post gone wrong, literary agent Petra runs away to look after a seaside bookshop for the summer — and forms an unlikely friendship with charming novelist Ross who is struggling with his latest idea.
My review
I love a book about books. In fact, if you were to look at my bookshelves right now, you’d see a whole mini section dedicated to them. How to Find a Romance in a Bookshop is the latest addition to my collection and it perfectly fits my collection. There's a delightful bookshop setting with book clubs, plenty of reading recommendations, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the publishing world from an agent’s perspective. Throw in a plot line about an author who went from being a literary darling to struggling with writer's block, and you have all the perfect ingredients for a very bookish read.
Protagonists Petra and Ross were a delight to get to know. They’re genuinely good people and I rooted for them from the very first page. As someone who has read a few of Poppy Alexander’s previous novels, it was also such a lovely surprise to reunite with familiar faces from her other stories set in and around the charming village of Portneath. If you’re new to her work, not knowing these characters won't take away any reading enjoyment, but it's a lovely nod for existing fans of her stories.
What I adored most about this story, though, was just how gentle it felt. When I pick up a romance novel, I’m not looking for over-the-top drama or punch-in-the-gut hardships; I want charm and a story I can lose myself in for a few days. While there’s certainly a slight "will-they-won't-they" aspect to the main romance, you don't have to worry about horrible secrets lurking in the background or tragic accidents befalling the protagonists. Petra’s world does get turned upside down right at the beginning, but it serves as the catalyst for everything that follows. And, from a reader's perspective, the whole setup is actually quite a funny affair.
How to Find a Romance in a Bookshop by Poppy Alexander does exactly what it says on the tin. The title might technically be referring to Petra and Ross, but the reader also finds romance in the delightful bookshop hidden in the pages of this novel. It's witty, lighthearted, and an absolute treat for anyone who loves stories about the joy of reading.
How to Find a Romance in a Bookshop by Poppy Alexander will be published on 24 September and you can now pre-order a copy from your favourite local book shop!
Disclaimer: This book was gifted to me, but this has not impacted this honest review.
Blog tour stops for How to Find a Romance in a Bookshop by Poppy Alexander
This review for How to Find a Romance in a Bookshop is part of the blog tour for the launch of the book. Make sure to check out the other stops too!
Disclaimer: This book was gifted to me, but this has not impacted this honest review.
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