Book Review: The Lost Bookshop

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Finished Reading: 11th January 2025

Some books whisper their magic, gently drawing you into a world where words hold power, where stories intertwine like the delicate threads of an old tapestry. The Lost Bookshop is one such book—a novel that captures the sheer wonder of reading and reminds us why we ever fell in love with books in the first place.

Magical realism is not a genre I often turn to, but in this case, it was the perfect kind of magic—subtle, meaningful, and utterly enchanting. The narrative is compelling, balancing mystery, emotion, and adventure with a beautiful sensitivity to themes of women’s rights, mental health, and solidarity. While feminism is at the heart of the story, it does not diminish the role of the good men who bring kindness, understanding, and integrity to the tale. It is a book that honours the stories of forgotten women, bridging past and present, and giving voice to those who have been silenced or overlooked.

The story unfolds through three richly drawn characters—Opaline, Martha, and Henry. Opaline’s world is steeped in books and secrecy, her past shrouded in mystery, making her an utterly compelling character. Martha is equally captivating, a woman in search of something more, grappling with her own sense of identity and belonging. Then there is Henry, whose journey is one of discovery, both of himself and the secrets that lie within the bookshop. Their stories weave together seamlessly, each bringing a unique perspective, yet bound by a shared connection to the power of books.

One of the most haunting and heartbreaking aspects of the novel is its portrayal of women who were forced into mental institutions, not for illness, but for daring to defy societal expectations. The book sheds light on how women were discarded—hidden away by their own families under the guise of ‘treatment’ simply because they were inconvenient, independent, or unwilling to conform. The injustice is woven into the fabric of the story, never heavy-handed but deeply affecting. Through Opaline’s journey, the novel honours those women, ensuring their voices are not forgotten, giving them space in a world that once sought to erase them.

The character development is exceptional. Each person is crafted with depth and nuance, making them feel real, flawed, and entirely captivating. The twists are wonderfully placed—unexpected but never forced, allowing the reader to be immersed in a world where second chances and retribution are not mere plot devices but thoughtful, natural progressions of the story. There is an elegance in how these themes are explored, never overwhelming or artificial but woven in a way that allows us to truly feel them.

Beyond the narrative itself, the dialogue sparkles. It is clever, entertaining, and full of heart, adding another layer of richness to an already mesmerising book. There is a sense of mystery that lingers throughout, keeping the pages turning and making it impossible to step away.

This is one of the best books I have read in a long time—a story that lingers long after the final page. I cannot wait to read more from this author, and I will carry the magic of The Lost Bookshop with me for a long time.