"The Lost Bookshop" by Evie Woods is an evocative and charming novel with mystery and secrets. It is reminiscent of "The Echo of Old Books" and "The Lost Apothecary." Set on a quiet street in Dublin, a hidden bookshop holds the promise of discovery. Opaline, Martha, and Henry feel like mere side characters in their own lives, yearning for something more.
Woods, also known as Evie Gaughan, is a bestselling author recognized by both the Wall Street Journal and Amazon Kindle, with over half a million copies of her books sold worldwide. Her diverse literary portfolio includes captivating works like "The Story Collector" and "The Heirloom."
Residing on the West Coast of Ireland, Evie finds solace from the stormy weather in her writing retreat - an attic transformed into a space for creativity. She crafts stories that seamlessly blend the ordinary with the extraordinary, revealing the magic woven into daily life.
The inspiration for writing "The Lost Bookshop" stemmed from Evie's longing to browse a bookstore during the lockdown. This desire to immerse oneself in books led to the novel's conception. The story explores themes of magical realism, allegory, and fairy-tale elements, empowering both characters and readers amidst challenging times.
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Paperback Down gave "The Lost Bookshop" a glowing 5-star review, praising its charm and magical storytelling. The reviewer praised the novel's beautiful writing and heartwarming tone as it smoothly moves between different periods and characters.
Numerous historical and literary references enhance this seamless transition, providing an immersive and engaging reading experience. Despite tackling serious issues like loss, abuse, and trauma, the book maintains a delicate and empathetic touch.
A review in Swirl and Thread praises Evie's mastery in crafting escapist worlds where anything is possible with belief. The reviewer recommended the book to those who appreciate references to the Lost Generation, Sylvia Beach, and the enchanting era of society and the arts.
Despite addressing tough themes, Evie seamlessly blends the hardships of life with warmth and magic, resulting in a captivating reading experience filled with mystery and curiosity. "The Lost Bookshop" is a joy to read, a seductive tale that ignites the imagination. It offers a truly immersive and charismatic journey of self-discovery and strength infused with hope and passion.
According to a review in Fictionophile, "The Lost Bookshop" is a treat for book lovers, featuring abundant literary references. It blends genres like love story, historical fiction, mystery, and magical realism to create an engaging reading journey. The depiction of the early 1920s provides both intrigue and discomfort, revealing the social constraints and powerlessness endured by women during that period.
Despite stretching credibility at times, the book is celebrated by literary enthusiasts, book collectors, and investigators. The reviewer said the book is an enchanting and memorable read that is highly recommended.
"The Lost Bookshop" is an excellent example of the author's storytelling skills, captivating readers through the narrative and the characters with a heartwarming effect. The novel is a must-read for those seeking to experience wonderful storytelling and evocative atmosphere.
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