Member Reviews
As a bookstore owner, I constantly seek literature that highlights the charm and allure of bookstores, book clubs, and the community they foster. The Little Provence Book Shop has quickly become one of my favorites. The story beautifully captures the essence of community through Delphine’s interactions with her quirky neighbors and the diverse group of people she meets. Each character adds a unique charm and depth to the narrative, making the bookshop a place of connection and healing. The writing style is simple and accessible, yet it radiates warmth and wit. It’s a delightful read that made me laugh, smile, and even shed a tear. The narrative weaves themes of courage, taking risks, (I brought a bookstore and that turned out to be a big risk) and the realization that it's never too late to chase your dreams. Yes, I'm still a bookstore owner with a dream of moving back home to DC and expanding my bookstore with coffee and wine. The Little Provence Book Shop is an ideal choice. It's a tale that leaves you feeling both uplifted and inspired. I wholeheartedly recommend The Little Provence Book Shop. It’s a book that resonates with those who cherish the magic of bookstores and the transformative power of stories. Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming narratives or simply love the idea of a bookshop as a haven for dreams, this novel is a must-read.
The Little Provence Book Shop bring us to the France countryside, to a quaint little bookshop, and its curious owner Monique, who is whispered to dabble in magic. We visit the bookshop alongside Adeline and her little 5-year old Lili, as she escapes from London after finding out she has been adopted. When she finds an advert indicating a rural bookshop in the area her birth mother is from is looking for help, there is only one place she can go....
Hm, what to say? This was such a mixed bag for me. Let's start with the good: The setting is deliciously rich. One can almost hear the floorboards in the bookstore creak, the smell the delicious smells wafting from the little bakery and see the characters step from the pages. The overall storyline of a young woman trying to find who she might be, coming to terms with adoption, was okay. Not spectacularly new, but definitely interesting enough to spend some time with.
On the other hand, I feel the romance plotline was unnecessary, and unfortunately not worked out quite well enough to really make any difference to the main character's growth. Could have done without that. I also felt that, while I liked the aura of mystery and otherworldly charm the author tried to bestow on Monique and the "Magic" she practiced, it was very obviously inspired by Joanne Harris' Chocolat, a book that is also referenced a couple of times in the story. Perhaps I wouldn't have even picked up on it, if the reference wasn't there. Who knows.
Obviously, these are minor complaints on what is, in the end, a well-written story of found family. If you are looking for a heart-warming feelgood that allows you to escape to the French countryside, this may well be the right pick for you.
I love books like this! Gillian Harvey has just become another favorite author. The setting was wonderful and the characters had great appeal to me. This story has easy readabiity- loved the story line! I swear, the older I get, the more, the more I enjoy these tales. Nice escapist fare; they can be read in an afternoon. Beach read? Long leisurely weekend or holiday? I rate this one right up there with the Nina George books I discovered a year or so back! Highly recommend. Great tale, Gillian Harvey! I look forward to reading more of your works,
Hope, emotion, drama and intrigue. A beautiful story set in France as the protagonist runs away from the lies her family had told her.
The Little Provence Bookshop is a delightful and heartwarming novel that takes readers to the picturesque French countryside. Adeline, a woman seeking a fresh start, finds solace in the charming village of Provence. As she settles into her new life, she discovers the magic of books and the warmth of community. The novel’s gentle pace and charming characters create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
The author skillfully weaves together elements of romance, friendship, and self-discovery, creating a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. While the plot is predictable at times, the book’s focus on the power of human connection and the transformative nature of reading makes it an enjoyable read. The descriptions of the quaint village and the cosy bookstore are particularly evocative, transporting readers to a world of tranquillity and beauty.
The exploration of themes like family, identity, and the healing power of books adds depth to the narrative. Overall, The Little Provence Bookshop is a heartwarming and uplifting story that will appeal to readers who enjoy cosy and feel-good fiction. It’s a perfect book to curl up with on a rainy day.
What is sweet story! I loved the new age/spiritual nuances, the way she wove crystals and such into the story. And I really loved all of the connections and how it all came together. Masterfully told, beautifully woven, a story of the Lost, and the found, the fine delicate threads that weave at all together, and how those find delicate threads are actually a strong bond bringing together four generations. A charming French village setting as the backdrop and a book shop as the foreground setting warms this book lover's heart.
While I saw the twist/reveal coming a mile off, I still really enjoyed this story for its setting and cozy feel. It was a good match for a weekend when I needed some softness and armchair travel to the South of France.
The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey is an enchanting and uplifting read that transports readers to the beautiful French countryside. Following Adeline, a single mother who is starting fresh in a new town, the novel offers a heartwarming exploration of new beginnings, community, and self-discovery. With its magical setting and endearing characters, the book blends romance, hope, and a touch of mystery. It’s the perfect escape for anyone seeking a story of second chances and the transformative power of starting over. A truly delightful read!
Gillian Harvey’s descriptions of Provence were so vivid that I could almost feel the sunshine and smell the lavender fields. It made me want to visit a cozy French village and browse through a little bookshop!
The characters were also wonderful. From Delphine’s quirky neighbors to the people she meets along the way, everyone added something special to the story. I especially loved the way the bookshop became a place of connection and healing, not just for Delphine but for others too.
The writing is simple and easy to follow, but it’s filled with warmth and wit. It made me laugh, smile, and even tear up a little. It’s a story about finding courage, taking chances, and learning that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
If you love stories about self-discovery, beautiful settings, and a touch of romance, The Little Provence Book Shop is the perfect read. It’s a book that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. I can’t recommend it enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you so much!
This charming little book was a delight to read. Well written, it was a fast read. For me it was a different genre as most of the books I read are usually historical fiction. This was light reading at its best. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Later she opens the door to the town’s tiny bookstore, where she is to work, ready to meet the mysterious owner Monique for the first time.
She expected an ordinary bookshop. But this bookstore feels somehow different… magical. Breathing in the smell of books, she feels a jolt of something. It feels like a new chapter beginning.
As she gets to know the villagers – including the handsome Andre and friendly Michel – she starts to believe in the magic of this new start. But can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she’s looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?
Loved it. Will recommend to others.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with this eARC.
This book's vibe is the same as the cover. It's warm and sweet with a touch of the magic of books. It's a wonderful book with a beautiful setting and plot.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this book so much that I bought a copy so I could read it again!
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishing house and the author or the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
After Adeline's mother's death, she discovers quite by accident proof that she was adopted. As she reels from the information she is then hurt to find out her older brother knew all along but no one ever told her.She discovers where her birth mother was from and decides that she needs a chnage for her and her young daughter, Lily. She finds a part time job in a a book store in Provence and decides to move there with the hopes of finding herself. She is immediately drawn by Monique the quirky bookstore owner. As Adeline tries to find where she belongs she meets many wonderful people and starts to fall in love with this small village and the mysterious bookshop, and maybe finds a special someone along the way.
This was a. lovely book. There were great dynamics between the characters and the storyline was cute. I like the way this author writes, I always look forward to her books.
A beautiful tale about finding yourself and more set in a quaint French village.
Adeline upends her and her 5 year old daughter’s life after a major discovery changes everything she thought she knew about herself. She moves her little family to St. Vianne after seeing a posting for someone seeking help in their bookstore. Her time in St. Vianne allows her to slow down, enjoy the parts of life she had begun to rush through, and learn more about herself.
This was a delightful and cozy read, reminiscent of a sweet book from an older time. It was calming and just what I needed.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gillian Harvey!
This book felt like a warm hug. It drew me in and didn't let go the last page. The entertainment, the friendships, the drama, transporting you to the south of France = a great read!!!
This book gives total cozy vibes. I loved the aspect of found family (a trope I adore). Add in a small town in France AND working in a bookstore? Yeah, this book checks all my initial boxes.
I will say, this book was a little bit slow. And for such a beautiful location, I would have loved more to really immerse myself.
Regardless, this book is a perfect book to read while curled up on the couch!
When nothing really happened by 20% I decided to DNF. I read some other reviews that said it is sweet and atmospheric, but it just did not pull me in.
What a sweet, cute book. I love Provence, bookshops, and cute stories. This cosy little read was just what I needed.
I did enjoy this book but it was quite slow and far-fetched. It was also quite predictable but I didn’t mind that so much. I liked the description of the little French town and the bookshop and thought it was very cute. It just wasn’t a very exciting book.