Review: The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay

The Printed Letter Bookshop

by Katherine Reay

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Pages: 336

Format: book

Buy the Book: Amazon

Goodreads:  One of Madeline Cullen’s happiest childhood memories is of working with her Aunt Maddie in the quaint and cozy Printed Letter Bookshop. But by the time Madeline inherits the shop nearly twenty years later, family troubles and her own bitter losses have hardened Madeline’s heart toward her once-treasured aunt—and the now struggling bookshop left in her care.

While Madeline intends to sell the shop as quickly as possible, the Printed Letter’s two employees have other ideas. Reeling from a recent divorce, Janet finds sanctuary within the books and within the decadent window displays she creates. Claire, though quieter than the acerbic Janet, feels equally drawn to the daily rhythms of the shop and its loyal clientele, finding a renewed purpose within its walls. When Madeline’s professional life takes an unexpected turn, and when a handsome gardener upends all her preconceived notions, she questions her plans and her heart. She begins to envision a new path for herself and for her aunt’s beloved shop—provided the women’s best combined efforts are not too little, too late.

Kritters Thoughts:  If you are a reader that loves books about books and books about bookstores then run don't walk to grab this one!

Madeline Cullen loved visiting her aunt and uncle who owned a bookstore in small town near Chicago.  When drama impacts her visits and they stop, she is taken back to that small town and this little bookshop will change the direction of her life.  This book had all the things I love, books, bookstores, family drama and a character that has to revisit their past in order to move forward.  Madeline Cullen was such a great character to watch grow and change during this story.

I could keep gushing, but I just adored this book.  The two older ladies who work in the bookstore each have their own drama that isn't distracting, but instead adds so much more to the story.  I couldn't get enough of both of them - just so good!  

Of course there was some love in this book, but I loved how in this book it was a side story and Madeline's concentration on her grandmother's legacy and her professional situation were the focus of the book.  I like when a main female character has drama that isn't centered on love relationships.

After finishing this book and loving it, I went and perused Katherine Reay's backlist, the books all seem like Austen reimaginations - where should I go next?


Rating: absolutely loved it and want a sequel

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one copy of this book free of charge from TLC Book Tours.  I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for receipt of the book; rather, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.