[I received a free electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
Summary
Emily Allen has stepped away from her life in Martha’s Vineyard to work at the Last Chapter bookshop in Ireland and be an assistant to a writer in residence. Siobhan Riordan – Emily’s favorite author. This has the potential to be a dream come true for Emily. Except for Kiernan Murphy – bookstore owner, all-around jerk who wants nothing to do with Emily, and Siobhan’s son.
For some reason, Kiernan seems determined to send Emily back to America asap. But she’s just as determined to stay. Siobhan’s books accompanied her through many difficult years. She wants to return the favor by helping Siobhan with her writer’s block. Being an ocean away from her toxic mother is just an added perk.
As Em becomes a bigger part of the Last Chapter family and Siobhan starts writing again, Kier thaws towards her – and then things between them heat up. But a secret has the potential to tear down everything Emily has found in Finn Hollow – everything she’s ever wanted.
Review
This was so good! I completely fell in love with the main character and the bookshop staff. What a delight to spend time with all of them!
The main story beats were pretty obvious going in, but I can’t complain that this was “predictable” because the execution was terrific. I loved Emily’s journey toward redefining herself in this new place without the burden of her mother. (BTW, her mother was deplorable – the absolute worst.) Siobhan was fantastic – both as a writer but also as a mentor. Kier and Em together were great, but it was the larger story of Emily’s journey that really clicked for me.
Romance fans, McKinlay fans, Summer Reading fans (these two books are loosely connected), and book/writing story fans should absolutely pick this up. And be sure to have tissues handly for the last quarter. (Language, sex)
Rating: ♥♥♥♥*
*♥♥♥♥ = Great! Might re-read