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A review by trivial_reads
Book People by Jackie Ashenden
3.0
Jackie Ashenden's "Book People" transports us to a charming village in small-town England, where two rival bookshops serve as both adversaries and the backdrop for a blossoming romance. On one side, we meet Kate, the optimistic newcomer who has revitalized her late mother's property into “Portable Magic,” a lively sanctuary for romance, cozy mysteries, and thrillers. Across the street stands Sebastian Blackwood, the town's brooding book lover, whose shop, “Blackwood Books,” appeals to serious literature enthusiasts and Booker Prize fans. Their relationship is a classic case of… well, tension-filled proximity.
The narrative unfolds six months after Kate's arrival, as her frustration with Sebastian's frosty demeanour grows. At the same time, he seems just as annoyed by her cheerful presence—and the very existence of her bookstore. Complicating matters is a long-standing family feud, subtly hinted at early in the story and intricately woven throughout the plot, alongside the impending deadline of a literary festival that Sebastian is organizing.
Ashenden's prose shines, skillfully capturing the idiosyncrasies of village life and the pleasures (and occasional challenges) of running a bookshop. Both Kate and Sebastian are intriguing characters, and the author’s playful examination of their contrasting personalities—sunshine versus storm cloud—infuses the story with humour and warmth.
However, the romance doesn't always progress as seamlessly as one might wish. While Sebastian's gruff exterior can be charming, his recurring self-doubt and belief that he is unworthy of love sometimes burden the narrative. The chemistry between him and Kate, though often endearing, can occasionally feel uneven because of this.
Nonetheless, "Book People" provides a delightful escape into a world filled with literary banter, charming characters, and heartfelt moments. Fans of opposites-attract romances with a literary flair will find plenty to enjoy in this enchanting tale.
Thank you to Jackie Ashenden, Headline Eternal, a division of Hachette, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in return for my honest review. Publication Date: January 28, 2025
The narrative unfolds six months after Kate's arrival, as her frustration with Sebastian's frosty demeanour grows. At the same time, he seems just as annoyed by her cheerful presence—and the very existence of her bookstore. Complicating matters is a long-standing family feud, subtly hinted at early in the story and intricately woven throughout the plot, alongside the impending deadline of a literary festival that Sebastian is organizing.
Ashenden's prose shines, skillfully capturing the idiosyncrasies of village life and the pleasures (and occasional challenges) of running a bookshop. Both Kate and Sebastian are intriguing characters, and the author’s playful examination of their contrasting personalities—sunshine versus storm cloud—infuses the story with humour and warmth.
However, the romance doesn't always progress as seamlessly as one might wish. While Sebastian's gruff exterior can be charming, his recurring self-doubt and belief that he is unworthy of love sometimes burden the narrative. The chemistry between him and Kate, though often endearing, can occasionally feel uneven because of this.
Nonetheless, "Book People" provides a delightful escape into a world filled with literary banter, charming characters, and heartfelt moments. Fans of opposites-attract romances with a literary flair will find plenty to enjoy in this enchanting tale.
Thank you to Jackie Ashenden, Headline Eternal, a division of Hachette, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in return for my honest review. Publication Date: January 28, 2025