Set in 1899 Evelyn Seaton is the daughter of a baron who has been missing for two years when the police appear to seize his assets. Fleeing with her mother to an elderly aunt in York, they feel the disgrace keenly. Evelyn rallies and soon finds work in a dusty old bookshop. When the owner's nephew turns up and claims his job back, a competition for the post ensues and of course, sparks fly. I don't often like historical novels especially the reminder of how women were treated but to see a strong stubborn woman like Evelyn was a treat. A lovely read. #netgalley #thelamplightersbookshop

This is a pleasant read - Evelyn Seaton's father has gambled away all their money and the bailiffs turn up at their home to take everything. Evelyn and her mother travel to York to stay with her mother's aunt. Her mother, originally from humble beginnings, hopes York society will receive her daughter and she will make a good match, at least until her husband regains their fortune and re-appears in their lives. Evelyn is less sanguine and more practical, and after being snubbed and humiliated by the woman who leads York society, she finds herself a job in a book shop. However, the owner's nephew has just returned from London, having tried to make his name as an author, and also wants his old job back. So Evelyn and William are set in competition.

The result is an interesting book, full of the prejudice and social mores of the day, but it is also a love story. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the romance between Evelyn and Will and loved the bookshop! An easy and comforting read.

Following Evelyn and her mother as their house and belongings are repossessed this book started strong and throws you straight into the drama. I loved the historical elements of this story and seeing a woman who went out and wanted to work to be independent.

There was a great cast of likeable and unlikeable characters throughout and I particularly liked Evelyn's aunt. I felt that there were a lot of plot points to follow in this book and some of them I didn't care for or felt they detracted from the main storyline.

I enjoyed the romance between Evelyn and William and could see how William's character was being used to juxtapose other characters in the narrative.

Overall a very enjoyable read, I think this reads more as historical fiction with a romance subplot than historical romance but that didn't detract from my enjoyment.

The Lamplighter’s Bookshop is a debut historical fiction / romance novel set in York in 1899. Lady Evelyn Seaton and her mother have been forced to leave their magnificent stately home and move in with Aunt Clara due to Evelyn’s father’s gambling debts. Evelyn needs to find a job and she secretly answers an advertisement for an assistant at Morton’s Emporium (The Lamplighter’s Bookshop) where she comes in direct competition with William, the owners nephew and aspiring writer who has lied about securing a publishing deal in London.

This is an easy read, well researched novel with a cast of characters to love and hate. I was waiting for the magical element of the bookshop to develop after the early implication but it seemed to have been cast aside and the book became a predictable romance. I think it could easily be improved with a better edit but I think the author shows promise and I will certainly read any future books.

3.5 stars rounded up.

What a gorgeous atmospheric read. The author has captured the streets of York perfectly. Such a wonderful story of hardship and love that had me captivated from the very beginning. I would love to see a sequel.

A beautifully written story, set in York, which is a gorgeous historical place, so made it visually wonderful.

Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

This is a beautifully descriptive story about love , betrayal & Family or those whom we chose as family. For the most part it is set in York this amazing rich city of which I am quite familiar with so that also added to my enjoyment while I read the Book & which I will be recommending to both family members & friends too. #NetGalley, #GoodReads, #Fb, #Instagram, #Amazon.co.uk, # <img src="https://www.netgalley.com/badge/8a5b541512e66ae64954bdaab137035a5b2a89d2" width="80" height="80" alt="200 Book Reviews" title="200 Book Reviews"/>, #<img src="https://www.netgalley.com/badge/aa60c7e77cc330186f26ea1f647542df8af8326a" width="80" height="80" alt="Professional Reader" title="Professional Reader"/>,#<img src="https://www.netgalley.com/badge/ef856e6ce35e6d2d729539aa1808a5fb4326a415" width="80" height="80" alt="Reviews Published" title="Reviews Published"/>.

As someone who doesn't normally get swept away by historical fiction (I'm more likely to be found roaming the realms of fantasy and magic), I approached The Lamplighter’s Bookshop with a healthy dose of skepticism. Historical romance? Meh. Not my usual cup of tea. But oh, this book. Sophie Austin has managed to create a story that is not only heartwarming and beautifully written, but also one that made me forget all about my usual literary preferences and fall head over heels for this sweet and mysterious tale.
Let’s talk about the characters first—because, honestly, they’re the soul of this book. Evelyn Seaton, a woman with her own secrets and layers, is a protagonist who feels so real that you’d swear she was someone you once knew. She’s a bit prickly, a bit guarded, but you can’t help but root for her as she stumbles her way through a life full of unresolved hurt and unspoken dreams. When she answers the ad for an assistant at the forgotten bookshop in York, she doesn’t just walk into a new job—she steps into an emotional labyrinth that will change her forever.
Enter William Morton—sigh—the enigmatic and deliciously complicated man with a past as tangled as his charmingly disheveled hair. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first (again, not a huge historical romance fan here), but William’s complexity and his prickly charm got under my skin. He’s got a tough exterior, but you know there’s more than meets the eye. There’s something about his quiet intensity that just draws you in. Together, Evelyn and William have this push-and-pull dynamic that makes you want to watch them squirm their way into each other's hearts (and by the end, trust me, you’ll be rooting for them with everything you’ve got).
The setting—York—is perfect. It’s like a character of its own, with its narrow streets, cobbled lanes, and the mystical, almost magical aura of an old bookshop that has seen things. Austin’s descriptions of the bookshop itself are so vivid that I could practically smell the dusty pages and feel the warmth of the lamplights flickering in the dim corners. It’s a beautiful, cozy backdrop for the emotional unraveling of both characters. And let me tell you—when the bookshop becomes the heart of their story, it’s pure magic.
The romance in this book is slow-burn, like the kind of story you read while sitting in front of a crackling fire, hot cocoa in hand, and a cozy blanket wrapped around you. It’s not rushed, and that’s what makes it so delightful. Both Evelyn and William have walls to break down, and as their layers slowly unravel, you can’t help but fall in love with them both. Their journey together is full of moments of vulnerability, trust, and ultimately, the courage to write the next chapter of their lives. It’s a beautiful reminder that healing, and love, often require a little bit of time and a whole lot of courage.
And here’s the kicker—I’m not a huge fan of historical romance, but Sophie Austin has completely changed my mind. The Lamplighter's Bookshop is a book that transcends the genre. It’s a masterclass in writing relatable, emotionally complex characters against a setting that feels like it’s as much a part of their story as they are. There are twists, but nothing feels contrived. The pacing is perfect, and the conclusion? It’ll leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your chest.
If you're looking for a book that’ll whisk you away into a world of secrets, heartache, and the kind of slow-burn romance that will make you swoon, The Lamplighter’s Bookshop is your ticket to an unforgettable story. And if you, like me, aren’t usually a historical fiction reader, I can’t recommend this enough. Sophie Austin has turned me into a fan—and I’m so glad she did.

I was looking forward to the book as I had a preconceived idea from the blurb. However the story itself turned out to be a historical romance with he implied magical bookshop element missing.
Despite that the book was a good read though not what I normally enjoy, definitely more for those who like the romance.

I loved this so much. As much as I enjoyed Bridgeton I wasn't sure this would be vibe however, I'm so glad I was wrong. As a historical romance, we follow Evelyn as she escapes the potential ruin of her family name and answers a newspaper ad to a bookshop.

The Lamplighter's Bookshop is such a lush story and I fell in love with the characters. It was really well written and I think this has the potential to be a really big hit!

The Lamplighter's Bookshop wasn't what I was expecting. I loved the concept but the book just didn't work for me and I struggled to finish it.

A truly sweet and comforting love story set in a bookshop (always a favourite) with wonderful characters and writing that absorbs the reader fully into the story of Evelyn and William.

I really enjoyed this book! 4.5 rounded off to 5

We follow Evelyn who, after her father has gambled away their fortune, applies for a position at a bookshop in order to earn a wage.

I loved the FMC. she was likeable and smart and William, her love interest and rival, was wonderfully intelligent. The characters were well developed and felt real. I was almost immediately thoroughly invested in all of them. Even the supporting characters like her best friend.

The plot was a little slow going but the pacing felt right for this story, and the prose was wonderful.

I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys Historical fiction with Romance and a strong, likable female lead.

Thank you to Harper Collins Uk and Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own and I am leaving a review voluntarily.

I thoroughly enjoyed this historical novel set in York. The details of the city were well researched and the characters interesting. It is a simple story but beautifully written and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

I enjoyed the simplicity of the storyline. The main protagonists had well defined characters and you could transport yourself back to the time period and see it all unfold around you. The detail was there but not to the extent that it detracted from the storyline itself. A lot was happening but done well. There was the change in status and living situation, finding out who your friends really are, forging a new life in work as well as growing as a person. In tandem to this was a budding romance and the renewal of the Lamplighter’s Bookshop. All of these moved side by side to a positive end. A lovely cosy, easy read.

Thank you so much to Harper Collins, NetGalley and Sophie Austin for sending me an ARC of The Lamplighter's Bookshop!

Set in 1899 York, follow Evelyn Seaton, an aristocratic young woman whose life is upended when her father gambles away the family estate, leaving her and her mother destitute. Seeking to regain stability, Evelyn secretly applies for a position at the Lamplighter’s Bookshop, a quaint and neglected store in York. There, she encounters William Morton, an aspiring writer with his own hidden past. The two find themselves in competition for the same job, but as they work together, their relationship evolves, and they begin to confront their personal secrets and societal expectations.

This is Sophie Austin's debut historical novel, and let's just say I hope she has more planned because I devoured this book. Usually I'm not a fan of historical fiction but I think this has convinced me to change my state of mind, I could not get enough of this book. I started reading this and fell in love with the characters, then before I had even realised I had gotten half way through this story and knew the end would be too close.

Seeing Evelyn going against her mother's wishes and not only finding a job for herself but actually loving it was something that made me so happy, like yes girl go be independent and make your own money, you don't need your sorry excuse of a father anymore. Then Naomi being the best supportive friend a girl could ask of even though they just met, I just loved all of them.

This book really showed that lying and withholding the truth, while it may get you somewhere and benefit you short term, will come back and bite you in the arse if you don't reveal the truth sooner. It also showed the effect lying can have, and that it is important to own up to your mistakes and rectify them in the correct way.

By the end of the book I had tears in my eyes - don't worry they were happy tears - and i was wishing the story wasn't done. I honestly look forward to reading more books from Sophie Austin in the future, her writing is something I could read over and over again.

KEY TROPES:
- historical romance
- workplace romance
- different social classes
- strong female lead
- friends to lovers
- victorian era
- slow burn
- cosy bookshop
- long hidden secrets

The Lamplighter’s Bookshop by Sophie Austin was a beautifully written book with a beautiful book cover to go with it. This is the first book I have read by this author and I loved the way she writes and had me memorised into the story and I could not turn the pages of my kindle quick enough to find out what happens next.

Every book tells a story. Every heart hides a secret.

The Lamplighter's Bookshop is an exciting book which is set in the late 19th century, and it features a young lady called Evelyn Seaton, she is from an aristocratic family that has lost its wealth. Evelyn is determined to get her
independence back, so she secretly takes a job at a forgotten bookshop, whilst working there she meets William Morton, a man from a middle class background and who is an aspiring writer. But, he is hiding his own who also secrets.

However, all secrets have a way of re-surfing and it does not matter how hard you hide these, they will come out into the open when you at least expect them.

This book was superb read and this was a book I had started and I found it hard to put it down. I am so glad the cover caught my eye,

I highly recommend it. Great read.

Big Thank you NetGalley and Harper collins UK for the ARC

What I liked

I liked the main character Evelyn – she was resourceful, determined and clever and was willing to do whatever she needed to to support herself and her mother.

The setting – it’s unusual for me to read a historical novel based in York

I loved the beautiful cover. I know that’s not strictly a comment on the book but it certainly attracted me to it.

I quite enjoyed reading about the disagreements between William and Evelyn. They were a feisty pair and I enjoyed their verbal sparring.

The character of Aunt Clara – in many ways she was quite snobbish and set in her ways but she did take Evelyn and her mother in when they had nowhere to go. Some of her remarks reminded me of Maggie Smith’s character in Downton Abbey. I thought it was quite amusing when she didn’t want to go into the morning room to ask why Evelyn’s mother was crying at one point because “then she would tell me and I would have to listen and that would be the whole evening gone”. She was hovering outside the room hoping the histrionics would soon be over so she could get her evening sherry!

I was intrigued to find out what secrets everyone was keeping, particularly William’s as we know most of what Evelyn is trying to keep hidden from the start. I also wondered what would happen when everyone was finally truthful with each other.

The last 20% or so really picked up for me and there was quite a lot of drama.

The ending!

What I didn’t like so much

There were hints of magic which never really materialised and I think that’s one of the things that I was disappointed in. Mr Morton, the bookshop owner, suggests near the beginning that the bookshop has a mind of its own and I somehow thought there would be something more about that.

I would have liked more focus on the bookshop. It didn’t feel that the fact that the shop sold books was particularly significant. It could just as easily have been a stationers or a haberdashers.

Some of the language was jarring for the era. Most of it did sound Victorian as it was meant to However, quite often some of the dialogue in particular felt too modern and almost as though I was reading a contemporary novel.

In summary

I did enjoy reading the novel and following the romance between the characters. However, as you can tell from above, I did have a few niggles so it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I would try another book from this author in the future though. This is just a personal view of course so if you like the sound of the book then go for it!

3.5* rounded up

Set at the very end of the 19th century, Evelyn and her mother Lady Seaton have no choice but to leave their family home after they are evicted by the police. Evelyn's father, Lord Seaton, has amassed huge gambling debts and is currently languishing in a London sponging house. Allowed only to take a few clothes, they have no choice but to put themselves at the mercy of Lady Seaton's Aunt Clara who lives in York. Evelyn secures a job in Morton's Emporium, also known as The Lamplighter's Bookshop however keeps this a secret from her mother and aunt. Unbeknownst to Evelyn she had already met the owner's nephew William and so starts a tricky relationship between Evelyn and William as they compete to improve the shop and increase book sales. Secrets and lies are plenty, indeed this is the thread that runs through the entire tale. I think I misinterpreted the synopsis, I was expecting a little magic and touch of fantasy so was a tad disappointed.

I am divided about the characterisations, some I loved and some I found very frustrating, having little sympathy for their respective plights. Already a little outspoken, Evelyn grows in confidence. She faces many challenges, however in the face of this adversity, blossoms into an independent and thoughtful young lady. Evelyn's new friend Naomi is a delight, I also enjoyed the 'thawing' of Aunt Clara. William, however, lacks charisma and has far too much angst. A hero he most certainly is not, very disappointing as Evelyn's tenacity and perseverance are deserving of a knight in shining armour. For me the plot was predictable, even a romance needs one or two surprises to keep its reader hooked.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.