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The Bookshop Ladies
Joy Blackwood has no idea why her French art dealer husband has left a valuable painting to a woman called Robyn Tessier in Ballycove, a small town on the west coast of Ireland, but she is determined to find out.
She arrives in Ballycove to find that Robyn runs a rather chaotic and unprofitable bookshop. She is shy, suffering from unrequited love for dashing Kian, and badly in need of advice on how to make the bookshop successful.
As Joy becomes entangled in the daily dramas of Ballycove, uncovering the secrets behind her husband's painting grows increasingly challenging. When she finally musters the courage to confront the truth, her revelation sends shockwaves through the tight-knit community she's grown to love.
She arrives in Ballycove to find that Robyn runs a rather chaotic and unprofitable bookshop. She is shy, suffering from unrequited love for dashing Kian, and badly in need of advice on how to make the bookshop successful.
As Joy becomes entangled in the daily dramas of Ballycove, uncovering the secrets behind her husband's painting grows increasingly challenging. When she finally musters the courage to confront the truth, her revelation sends shockwaves through the tight-knit community she's grown to love.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2024
About the author
Faith Hogan
13 books570 followersFaith Hogan is a bestselling author of nine novels. Her books have featured as Book Club Favorites, Net Galley Hot Reads and Summer Must Reads. She writes grown up women's fiction which is unashamedly uplifting, feel good and inspiring.
She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
Her latest novel is The Guest House By The Sea - set in the west of Ireland - it has been described as a book to fall in love with.
She also writes crime fiction as Geraldine Hogan. Her Corbally series is out now.
You can find out more about Faith on her website www.faithhogan.com
www.Facebook/FaithHogan.com
@gerhogan
She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
Her latest novel is The Guest House By The Sea - set in the west of Ireland - it has been described as a book to fall in love with.
She also writes crime fiction as Geraldine Hogan. Her Corbally series is out now.
You can find out more about Faith on her website www.faithhogan.com
www.Facebook/FaithHogan.com
@gerhogan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
June 10, 2024
EXCERPT: . . . she'd had such plans when she'd started out. She'd dreamed of having this shop full of beautiful books, of having literary events and a book club meeting here every week. She imagined hosting talks by interesting people who might not get a chance to be heard elsewhere. She planned to organise the whole children's section with the rocking chair and a few ancient eiderdowns she'd had cleaned for children's story times. She envisioned parents arriving and dropping their children off while the adults browsed the shelves in peace and quiet for half an hour, picking up something interesting to lose themselves in once they had tucked their young ones in at night.
Why on earth hadn't she done any of that? Why indeed? Later as she turned over the sign on the door to let the uncaring public know the bookshop was closed for the evening, she sighed. Maybe old Albie was right. Perhaps, taking on someone to help out would allow her time to think. At the very least, it might give her time to make some sort of action plan and get things moving in the right direction.
ABOUT 'THE BOOKSHOP LADIES': Joy Blackwood has no idea why her French art dealer husband has left a valuable painting to a woman called Robyn Tessier in Ballycove, a small town on the west coast of Ireland, but she is determined to find out. She arrives in Ballycove to find that Robyn runs a rather chaotic and unprofitable bookshop. She is shy, suffering from unrequited love for dashing Kian, and badly in need of advice on how to make the bookshop successful. As Joy gets drawn into the dramas of everyday life in the town, she finds it more and more difficult to confess why she really came, let alone find the truth about the painting she brought with her. When she does finally summon up the courage, it sets the cat amongst the pigeons in the close-knit, friendly community she has come to love.
MY THOUGHTS: The Bookshop Ladies is one of those books where I fell in love with the characters and their various problems, and when I closed the cover for the final time, couldn't figure out if I was happy for the characters, or sad to see them go. A little of both, I think.
It was lovely to be back in Ballycove, to see a few familiar faces (The Ladies Midnight Swimming Club gets a mention) and meet some new ones.
Joy is a lovely heartwarming character. Despite having lost the love of her life and discovering, with his dying breath, that Yves has a daughter, Joy finds herself liking this shy, reticient young woman who seems to have bitten off more than she can chew business-wise.
Ballycove is a (mostly) friendly place. Old Albie, Robyn's great-uncle, is a delightful character, still very much in love with his deceased wife Peggy. He is one of those people who seem to know just how to bring the best out in everyone. His son Leo is the opposite - surly, grumpy and definitely not welcoming! But very talented.
Fern, Robyn's mum, is a talented artist who seems to have lost her spark and who runs home to Ballycove to lick her wounds when she faces a personal life crisis. She and Joy (I love the French spelling Joie used occasionally in the text) are on the road to becoming close friends when Joy reveals the real reason she came to Ballycove, the true connection between the three women is revealed and the friendship is shattered.
There are so many heart-tugging moments in this truly beautiful story. Secrets are revealed; there are relationship issues to be ironed out; and an ailing business to be revived. A book about the importance of community, friendship and perseverance.
The Bookshop Ladies is a gently compelling read, an emotionally satisfying read. I hope we will be going back to Ballycove in the future. There is unfinished business there.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheBookshopLadies #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: I have worked in all sorts of jobs, as a fashion model, an event’s organizer and in the intellectual disability and mental health sector. The constant throughout has been a love of books! I have read and written all of my life.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Bookshop Ladies by Faith Hogan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own personal opinions.
Why on earth hadn't she done any of that? Why indeed? Later as she turned over the sign on the door to let the uncaring public know the bookshop was closed for the evening, she sighed. Maybe old Albie was right. Perhaps, taking on someone to help out would allow her time to think. At the very least, it might give her time to make some sort of action plan and get things moving in the right direction.
ABOUT 'THE BOOKSHOP LADIES': Joy Blackwood has no idea why her French art dealer husband has left a valuable painting to a woman called Robyn Tessier in Ballycove, a small town on the west coast of Ireland, but she is determined to find out. She arrives in Ballycove to find that Robyn runs a rather chaotic and unprofitable bookshop. She is shy, suffering from unrequited love for dashing Kian, and badly in need of advice on how to make the bookshop successful. As Joy gets drawn into the dramas of everyday life in the town, she finds it more and more difficult to confess why she really came, let alone find the truth about the painting she brought with her. When she does finally summon up the courage, it sets the cat amongst the pigeons in the close-knit, friendly community she has come to love.
MY THOUGHTS: The Bookshop Ladies is one of those books where I fell in love with the characters and their various problems, and when I closed the cover for the final time, couldn't figure out if I was happy for the characters, or sad to see them go. A little of both, I think.
It was lovely to be back in Ballycove, to see a few familiar faces (The Ladies Midnight Swimming Club gets a mention) and meet some new ones.
Joy is a lovely heartwarming character. Despite having lost the love of her life and discovering, with his dying breath, that Yves has a daughter, Joy finds herself liking this shy, reticient young woman who seems to have bitten off more than she can chew business-wise.
Ballycove is a (mostly) friendly place. Old Albie, Robyn's great-uncle, is a delightful character, still very much in love with his deceased wife Peggy. He is one of those people who seem to know just how to bring the best out in everyone. His son Leo is the opposite - surly, grumpy and definitely not welcoming! But very talented.
Fern, Robyn's mum, is a talented artist who seems to have lost her spark and who runs home to Ballycove to lick her wounds when she faces a personal life crisis. She and Joy (I love the French spelling Joie used occasionally in the text) are on the road to becoming close friends when Joy reveals the real reason she came to Ballycove, the true connection between the three women is revealed and the friendship is shattered.
There are so many heart-tugging moments in this truly beautiful story. Secrets are revealed; there are relationship issues to be ironed out; and an ailing business to be revived. A book about the importance of community, friendship and perseverance.
The Bookshop Ladies is a gently compelling read, an emotionally satisfying read. I hope we will be going back to Ballycove in the future. There is unfinished business there.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheBookshopLadies #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: I have worked in all sorts of jobs, as a fashion model, an event’s organizer and in the intellectual disability and mental health sector. The constant throughout has been a love of books! I have read and written all of my life.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Bookshop Ladies by Faith Hogan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own personal opinions.
April 5, 2024
Joy and her husband have been in a traffic accident. On the way to hospital Joy’s husband confesses that he has a secret daughter.
Later Joy discovers that he has left a valuable painting in his will to his daughter and Joy travels to Ireland to deliver it in person to the girl.
A feel good story about, secrets, friendships and new beginnings.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus Ltd for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Later Joy discovers that he has left a valuable painting in his will to his daughter and Joy travels to Ireland to deliver it in person to the girl.
A feel good story about, secrets, friendships and new beginnings.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus Ltd for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2024
3.5 Joy Blackwood and her husband Yves are on their way home from Yves retirement party, whilst planning their future in the backseat of a cab they are involved in an accident. It's bad, but not horrible, everyone seems to be okay - except when Joy notices that Yves is having a heart attack.
On the way to the hospital, Yves admits something to Joy that he has kept from her for years - he has a daughter.
6 months later, still grieving and in shock - Joy is notified that the painting hanging in his office, the one she has always felt an eerie sort of distaste towards, has been left to a one Robyn Tessier in Ballycove, Ireland.
Painting packed and ready to go, Joy feels she needs to be the one to deliver this painting to Robyn, who Joy assumes was Yves mistress - she does not even know what she will do when she gets there, only that she feels lost and empty and needs answers.
The next thing Joy knows she is being roped into volunteering in a Bookshop facing the ocean in one of the most beautiful towns she has ever seen. The pieces slowly start slotting together but before Joy knows it she is in too deep. Sucked in these peoples homes, lives and hearts.
This is SUCH a cozy story, It does deal with quite a bit of grief - but it's written in such a subtle way that the main focus is on the healing and the characters who need it. This book was the epitome of found family and finding "your place" and home when and where you least expect it.
This was also a fairly quick read - the writing just flows and when you look again, you have read like 20%
On the way to the hospital, Yves admits something to Joy that he has kept from her for years - he has a daughter.
6 months later, still grieving and in shock - Joy is notified that the painting hanging in his office, the one she has always felt an eerie sort of distaste towards, has been left to a one Robyn Tessier in Ballycove, Ireland.
Painting packed and ready to go, Joy feels she needs to be the one to deliver this painting to Robyn, who Joy assumes was Yves mistress - she does not even know what she will do when she gets there, only that she feels lost and empty and needs answers.
The next thing Joy knows she is being roped into volunteering in a Bookshop facing the ocean in one of the most beautiful towns she has ever seen. The pieces slowly start slotting together but before Joy knows it she is in too deep. Sucked in these peoples homes, lives and hearts.
This is SUCH a cozy story, It does deal with quite a bit of grief - but it's written in such a subtle way that the main focus is on the healing and the characters who need it. This book was the epitome of found family and finding "your place" and home when and where you least expect it.
This was also a fairly quick read - the writing just flows and when you look again, you have read like 20%
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2024
This is a lovely book that starts out strong with interesting female characters and plot. It involves a woman Joy/Joie who finds out after a car accident, from her dying husband, Yves, that he has an adult daughter whom he has kept a secret from her. Joie and Yves have no children and they had wanted one desperately.
Joie finds out that a valuable painting is to be given to Robyn by her deceased husband in his will. Joie doesn’t understand all the in’s and out’s about Robyn in Ballycore, Ireland, and so decides to deliver the painting in person.
The complications are charming, the ☘️ Irish village and people delightful, and the women eventually become friends. Robyn owns a sweet book store and that has its own stories and issues. I’ll give no more away but to say there are twists and turns you might not see coming.
About 2/3 through, the book slowed down but eventually picked up its former interesting pace. I really enjoy the atmosphere and characters created by Faith Hogan. It leaves you with such a feeling of hope and love and brightness in our ever-evolving world.
Joie finds out that a valuable painting is to be given to Robyn by her deceased husband in his will. Joie doesn’t understand all the in’s and out’s about Robyn in Ballycore, Ireland, and so decides to deliver the painting in person.
The complications are charming, the ☘️ Irish village and people delightful, and the women eventually become friends. Robyn owns a sweet book store and that has its own stories and issues. I’ll give no more away but to say there are twists and turns you might not see coming.
About 2/3 through, the book slowed down but eventually picked up its former interesting pace. I really enjoy the atmosphere and characters created by Faith Hogan. It leaves you with such a feeling of hope and love and brightness in our ever-evolving world.
February 1, 2025
We’re here to celebrate a wonderful new business in our town and not just any business, but a bookshop, a place we can come to when we are in need of cheering up or calming down. The message here tonight is loud and clear: even if you aren’t a big reader, you are always welcome to drop by… "
Насладих се максимално на The Bookshop Ladies , усещайки еуфорията да тече през тялото ми ! Faith Hogan е написала страхотен роман, който изисква празнуване на малките неща в живота. Малкото градче Ballycove на крайбрежието на Ирландия, малката книжарница, която стъпка по стъпка се опитва да се свърже с хората , малките семейни бизнеси, които оцеляват, благодарение на подава щата се едни на други ръка и предлагайки продукти по семейни или уникални рецепти. The Bookshop Ladies е деликатен химн за приятелството, което понякога продължава години наред, а друг път се ражда от поглед, добра дума или обмислен жест. Малките общности могат да направят дадено място неповторимо. Това, заедно с природата , гледките, въздуха и атмосферата, могат да откраднат сърцетона някой посетител и той да забрави големия град, който е смятал за всичко на този свят. Поколенията гледат по различен начин на нещата, но е важно да гледат в една посока. Усещането за семейство може да се долови и сред хора, които до скоро са били непознати. Сходните цели и намерения, стремежът към приобщаване и даряване на радост, носят удовлетворение. А една нова книжарница с изглед към морето в малкия ирлндски град, може да протегне ръка на всяка група с интереси в района. Авторката блажено ни показва как трябва да изглежда една инди книжарница, която въплъщава всяка смела мечта на своя собственик и на своите очакващи събития, възможности и постоянни нови заглавия клиенти. Само така малките книжни магазини могат да победят големия вериги и да си осигурят верни клиенти завинаги!
" Books are meant to be loved, thumbed
through, fallen asleep with, and this book... "
" After all, books should be about escaping the mundane and stepping into worlds you didn’t want to leave. She wanted her bookshop to be like that. "
Насладих се максимално на The Bookshop Ladies , усещайки еуфорията да тече през тялото ми ! Faith Hogan е написала страхотен роман, който изисква празнуване на малките неща в живота. Малкото градче Ballycove на крайбрежието на Ирландия, малката книжарница, която стъпка по стъпка се опитва да се свърже с хората , малките семейни бизнеси, които оцеляват, благодарение на подава щата се едни на други ръка и предлагайки продукти по семейни или уникални рецепти. The Bookshop Ladies е деликатен химн за приятелството, което понякога продължава години наред, а друг път се ражда от поглед, добра дума или обмислен жест. Малките общности могат да направят дадено място неповторимо. Това, заедно с природата , гледките, въздуха и атмосферата, могат да откраднат сърцетона някой посетител и той да забрави големия град, който е смятал за всичко на този свят. Поколенията гледат по различен начин на нещата, но е важно да гледат в една посока. Усещането за семейство може да се долови и сред хора, които до скоро са били непознати. Сходните цели и намерения, стремежът към приобщаване и даряване на радост, носят удовлетворение. А една нова книжарница с изглед към морето в малкия ирлндски град, може да протегне ръка на всяка група с интереси в района. Авторката блажено ни показва как трябва да изглежда една инди книжарница, която въплъщава всяка смела мечта на своя собственик и на своите очакващи събития, възможности и постоянни нови заглавия клиенти. Само така малките книжни магазини могат да победят големия вериги и да си осигурят верни клиенти завинаги!
" Books are meant to be loved, thumbed
through, fallen asleep with, and this book... "
" After all, books should be about escaping the mundane and stepping into worlds you didn’t want to leave. She wanted her bookshop to be like that. "
June 4, 2024
Shocked by her art dealer husband’s deathbed confession that he had a daughter – they were never blessed with a family of their own – there’s a further surprise when his will is read, and Joy discovers he’s left the painting on his study wall to a woman who lives in Ireland called Robyn Tessier. Might this be his daughter – or perhaps even his mistress? She needs to find out, and rather than sending the painting, travels from her home in Paris to Ballycove – where she finds the young woman struggling to run a bookshop. A misunderstanding sees her helping her out, their joint efforts beginning to change the bookshop’s fortunes – and, having grown closer to both Robyn and her family, it becomes increasingly difficult for Joy to make clear the real reason for her visit. Many of Joy’s questions are answered – but when her own secret is revealed, she knows that the deep friendships she’s made will never be the same again, and that her stay will be over.
The characters – all very real, and every one of them so sympathetically drawn – and the relationships between them made this a book that entirely won my heart. There’s Joy’s essential loneliness in the absence of a family of her own, and her increasing sense of belonging as her presence makes an impact on everyone around her – and the growth in Robyn’s fragile self-confidence as she sees small changes and a little friendly support making such a big difference. And other strong friendships too – Joy’s with Robyn’s wonderful grandfather Albie (he’ll be a real favourite with everyone who reads this book…) and her more unexpected and particularly touching one with Robyn’s mother Fern – and relationship issues as the younger woman endeavours to sort out her feelings about the entirely oblivious Kian.
There’s always something rather special about a bookshop setting – and I thoroughly enjoyed watching the transformation the women were able to bring about while working closely together, their mutual trust and respect slowly building. Emotionally, the book hits every single note with absolute perfection – with that lingering threat always in the background that once the real reason for Joy’s visit is revealed it will blow everything apart. There are a few other surprises along the way too – overall it’s a fairly gentle read, but completely compelling, and I felt entirely immersed in everyone’s lives and experiences. It explores, in some depth, the power of friendship – but also the importance of family, however complicated, and whether tied together by blood or the love between the individuals who become part of it.
I found the whole book absolutely captivating – and its perfect ending left me with a really warm glow inside. A new favourite from an author who never disappoints? Yes, I really think it might be – I loved every moment, and really couldn’t recommend it any more highly.
The characters – all very real, and every one of them so sympathetically drawn – and the relationships between them made this a book that entirely won my heart. There’s Joy’s essential loneliness in the absence of a family of her own, and her increasing sense of belonging as her presence makes an impact on everyone around her – and the growth in Robyn’s fragile self-confidence as she sees small changes and a little friendly support making such a big difference. And other strong friendships too – Joy’s with Robyn’s wonderful grandfather Albie (he’ll be a real favourite with everyone who reads this book…) and her more unexpected and particularly touching one with Robyn’s mother Fern – and relationship issues as the younger woman endeavours to sort out her feelings about the entirely oblivious Kian.
There’s always something rather special about a bookshop setting – and I thoroughly enjoyed watching the transformation the women were able to bring about while working closely together, their mutual trust and respect slowly building. Emotionally, the book hits every single note with absolute perfection – with that lingering threat always in the background that once the real reason for Joy’s visit is revealed it will blow everything apart. There are a few other surprises along the way too – overall it’s a fairly gentle read, but completely compelling, and I felt entirely immersed in everyone’s lives and experiences. It explores, in some depth, the power of friendship – but also the importance of family, however complicated, and whether tied together by blood or the love between the individuals who become part of it.
I found the whole book absolutely captivating – and its perfect ending left me with a really warm glow inside. A new favourite from an author who never disappoints? Yes, I really think it might be – I loved every moment, and really couldn’t recommend it any more highly.
February 11, 2025
A sweet read but a little too predictable. But, I did enjoy the story. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
April 5, 2024
I absolutely adored The Bookshop Ladies by Faith Hogan! Such a tender and triumphant story that shows no matter how terrible the past you can start afresh in a new place with new friends and even learn to love those who have done you wrong. Forgiveness is a huge part of this novel’s moral fabric and the best way to work through it. Being open to letting go of those hurts allows for a chance of healing. The story shows well how bitterness, anger and guilt can only drain and damage the ones holding on to it. It can even affect creativity as it did for Robyn’s mother, Fern, a great artist. But yes, it is hard to get to that place. Possibly the only way is meeting the challenge head on by communicating with the person who has caused the injury to your heart. Injury to emotions is painful and Joy has every right to be angry when her husband confesses a truth, just before he passes from a tragic event on his retirement party night.
The sense of betrayal Joy feels after a secret is revealed is understood. But how she ultimately deals with the shock and after-effect is constructive—even if she does not realise what she is doing at first. For her, the natural reaction is to head to Ireland to hand deliver a gift left in her husband’s will. Her plan is to just drop off the painting, meet Robyn, and run back home. But what meets her there is nothing of what she expects: acceptance, love, friendship and an appreciation for her exceptional business promotion skills. The people of Ballycove bring out in her some very positive reactions. She begins to blossom like the beautiful green leaves of spring. And when she meets Robyn in her little bookstore, struggling, she feels compassion towards this innocent girl whose likeness to someone she loved deeply, almost takes her breath away. The longer Joy stays and becomes more involved, the more the betrayal begins to fade. And the warmth of the community wraps itself around her heart and allows her to heal in places she did not even know she needed before. With the loss of her husband and really nothing to keep her in Paris, will she decide to make Ballycove, Ireland her new home?
I felt completely engaged with the characters and could sympathise with each of them for various reasons as this novel seems to level everyone—not elevate any one individual. It shows each person’s humanness: how everyone will make a mistake at one time or another. Which drives a message home to us all. Nobody is perfect: we all do something we regret at some point in our lives. Nobody can truly cast stones at another. But how we deal with those errors and hurts determines our outcome. As seen in The Bookshop Ladies, it is best to confront the issue. And looking at it from another’s perspective can make a difference. Then help your ‘neighbour’ where you can (as Joy did) and this itself often provides release from one’s own pain. The bookshop resurrection was a delightful pathway to restoration from all three ladies and the valuable discoveries within it. This wonderful setting invokes passion and where lives become renewed and pieces of the puzzle are completed.
So, in summary: this is a heart-warming novel with flawed characters who make mistakes but experience restoration. These three women’s journeys (Joy, Fern and Robyn) are beautifully executed. We get to hear from each of them and share in their perspectives. Another great character is Albie. I love how he seems to be the voice of wisdom throughout! His gentle humour, unconditional love and far-reaching understanding provides a lot of cheer and common sense in the story. The settings: Paris and Ballycove are both inspiring. But my heart was truly snatched away by Ireland’s charm when Joy makes her life changing choice. I felt many emotions and by the end I was filled with awe and brimming with satisfaction. I loved this story so much and highly recommend it. This is my second Faith Hogan novel and I will be reading many more! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Aria and Aries and Netgalley for my review copy.
The sense of betrayal Joy feels after a secret is revealed is understood. But how she ultimately deals with the shock and after-effect is constructive—even if she does not realise what she is doing at first. For her, the natural reaction is to head to Ireland to hand deliver a gift left in her husband’s will. Her plan is to just drop off the painting, meet Robyn, and run back home. But what meets her there is nothing of what she expects: acceptance, love, friendship and an appreciation for her exceptional business promotion skills. The people of Ballycove bring out in her some very positive reactions. She begins to blossom like the beautiful green leaves of spring. And when she meets Robyn in her little bookstore, struggling, she feels compassion towards this innocent girl whose likeness to someone she loved deeply, almost takes her breath away. The longer Joy stays and becomes more involved, the more the betrayal begins to fade. And the warmth of the community wraps itself around her heart and allows her to heal in places she did not even know she needed before. With the loss of her husband and really nothing to keep her in Paris, will she decide to make Ballycove, Ireland her new home?
I felt completely engaged with the characters and could sympathise with each of them for various reasons as this novel seems to level everyone—not elevate any one individual. It shows each person’s humanness: how everyone will make a mistake at one time or another. Which drives a message home to us all. Nobody is perfect: we all do something we regret at some point in our lives. Nobody can truly cast stones at another. But how we deal with those errors and hurts determines our outcome. As seen in The Bookshop Ladies, it is best to confront the issue. And looking at it from another’s perspective can make a difference. Then help your ‘neighbour’ where you can (as Joy did) and this itself often provides release from one’s own pain. The bookshop resurrection was a delightful pathway to restoration from all three ladies and the valuable discoveries within it. This wonderful setting invokes passion and where lives become renewed and pieces of the puzzle are completed.
So, in summary: this is a heart-warming novel with flawed characters who make mistakes but experience restoration. These three women’s journeys (Joy, Fern and Robyn) are beautifully executed. We get to hear from each of them and share in their perspectives. Another great character is Albie. I love how he seems to be the voice of wisdom throughout! His gentle humour, unconditional love and far-reaching understanding provides a lot of cheer and common sense in the story. The settings: Paris and Ballycove are both inspiring. But my heart was truly snatched away by Ireland’s charm when Joy makes her life changing choice. I felt many emotions and by the end I was filled with awe and brimming with satisfaction. I loved this story so much and highly recommend it. This is my second Faith Hogan novel and I will be reading many more! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Aria and Aries and Netgalley for my review copy.
April 12, 2024
As is usually the way with Faith Hogan books The Bookshop Ladies is a very warm hearted and endearing book where characters come together, sometimes initially in adversity and discover peace and a solution to their problems by helping each other and/or others. This book centres around three women. Joy, Robyn and Fern whose lives are connected. Although initially they are unaware of this. The death of Joy's husband and the betrayal of Fern's finds them all gathered in Ballycove on the West Coast of Ireland. A favourite spot of the author in which to set her novels. Other characters from previous novels have cameos in this story but the main narrative involves the three women and Uncle Albie. The book was a pleasure to read. The characters are well rounded, easy to empathise with and totally believable. There was a nice balance of pathos and humour and the final twist was timed exactly right to bring the book to a satisfactory conclusion. I'm very happy to give this book a 5* recommendation.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
May 28, 2024
Another top read from a favourite author!
Widowhood has brought many surprises to Joy Blackwood, not least of which is the valuable painting left to a young Irish woman, Robyn Tessier. Why does she know nothing of her? Determined to find out what the story is behind this bequest, Joy sets off for Ballycove, arriving to find Robyn running an unprofitable bookshop while suffering from unrequited love. Before she knows it, she is part of Robyn's daily life - and she still hasn't admitted to why she is there . . .
I have never been disappointed with any novel from this author; she has an understanding of the human spirit as well as relationships and every time I read I conclude that she is a natural successor to the late Maeve Binchy. This is a sparkling example of how to entwine lives and grab the readers attention and make them really care about all characters. An absolutely delicious read and one I'm more than happy to both recommend and give a full house of glowing stars.
Widowhood has brought many surprises to Joy Blackwood, not least of which is the valuable painting left to a young Irish woman, Robyn Tessier. Why does she know nothing of her? Determined to find out what the story is behind this bequest, Joy sets off for Ballycove, arriving to find Robyn running an unprofitable bookshop while suffering from unrequited love. Before she knows it, she is part of Robyn's daily life - and she still hasn't admitted to why she is there . . .
I have never been disappointed with any novel from this author; she has an understanding of the human spirit as well as relationships and every time I read I conclude that she is a natural successor to the late Maeve Binchy. This is a sparkling example of how to entwine lives and grab the readers attention and make them really care about all characters. An absolutely delicious read and one I'm more than happy to both recommend and give a full house of glowing stars.
Shelved as 'dnf'
December 31, 2024Dnf @ 61%. I have really enjoyed all of Faith Hogans other works but I’m in a shocker of a reading slump and I just couldn’t care less about the characters which is usually my favourite part of Hogan’s novels.
Also I feel like this book could realistically be ‘solved’ with one or two conversations but that’s just my opinion
Also I feel like this book could realistically be ‘solved’ with one or two conversations but that’s just my opinion
June 7, 2024
Couldn’t wait for another trip to Ballycove to catch up with some of my favourite characters from previous books and find out what new story Faith had cooked up for this small town in the west of Ireland. It all seems to be happening over there for sure!
This story involves a book shop, which was always going to be a winner for me, and this book immediately revived my long-held desire to run my own book shop. I was imagining, if I were Robyn, how would I go about drumming up trade. I have to say, I don’t think I’d be quite as creative as Joy!
Of course, the main thrust of the story is the family drama, as it always is in Faith’s books. She is a genius at creating scenarios that strain the threads that bind people together and then see how they might react and she always seems to capture the truth of human relationships. This book is no different and I thoroughly enjoyed the story here of hidden family secrets and unconventional family setups. The theme of family being what you make it, rather than just being down to blood, is on that is close to my heart and I think Faith explored the theme with sensitivity and insight.
The ending quite shocked me with its revelations but I think it was pitch perfect and this book will delight everyone who is already a fan of Ballycove and its inhabitants as well as anyone coming new to the series and Faith’s writing. A surefire hit.
This story involves a book shop, which was always going to be a winner for me, and this book immediately revived my long-held desire to run my own book shop. I was imagining, if I were Robyn, how would I go about drumming up trade. I have to say, I don’t think I’d be quite as creative as Joy!
Of course, the main thrust of the story is the family drama, as it always is in Faith’s books. She is a genius at creating scenarios that strain the threads that bind people together and then see how they might react and she always seems to capture the truth of human relationships. This book is no different and I thoroughly enjoyed the story here of hidden family secrets and unconventional family setups. The theme of family being what you make it, rather than just being down to blood, is on that is close to my heart and I think Faith explored the theme with sensitivity and insight.
The ending quite shocked me with its revelations but I think it was pitch perfect and this book will delight everyone who is already a fan of Ballycove and its inhabitants as well as anyone coming new to the series and Faith’s writing. A surefire hit.
March 29, 2024
The Bookshop Ladies by Faith Hogan is a fabulous read, it makes you feel good for having read and enjoyed it. It is a story of friendship, also secrets, lies and family. Most of all family in whatever shape you want to make it.
Jo Blackwood is haunted by her husband’s last words to her about a daughter. He dies but then leaves a painting to this daughter, that Jo never knew about.
So she goes to Ireland from France to find her and give her this precious painting. Robyn Tessier, who is living in Ballycove, a small town on the west coast of Ireland, is a very shy retiring young woman, who has no idea that Jo’s husband was her father. Her mother, Fern has never told her.
It is a story of people getting to know each other and becoming friends in the most unlikely situations and becoming a family.
Highly recommended
Jo Blackwood is haunted by her husband’s last words to her about a daughter. He dies but then leaves a painting to this daughter, that Jo never knew about.
So she goes to Ireland from France to find her and give her this precious painting. Robyn Tessier, who is living in Ballycove, a small town on the west coast of Ireland, is a very shy retiring young woman, who has no idea that Jo’s husband was her father. Her mother, Fern has never told her.
It is a story of people getting to know each other and becoming friends in the most unlikely situations and becoming a family.
Highly recommended
March 23, 2024
This was my first book by this author and won’t be my last. This was a poignant read of how events of the past can shape the future and of the bonds between family and friends and how secrets and betrayal always come out in the end.
This was heartwarming and beautiful read that was heartbreaking at times and set against the beautiful backdrop of Bally cove. I also enjoyed the references to Paris as this is one of my favourite cities and what’s not to love about a book set around a bookshop.
I would love a sequel to this to see where the characters lives go and how the bookshop continues to grow.
This was heartwarming and beautiful read that was heartbreaking at times and set against the beautiful backdrop of Bally cove. I also enjoyed the references to Paris as this is one of my favourite cities and what’s not to love about a book set around a bookshop.
I would love a sequel to this to see where the characters lives go and how the bookshop continues to grow.
March 21, 2024
This was a very cosy read and as someone who is from Ireland and loves the description of the country I usually love novels like this. The premise was great but I found that the characters were not fleshed out very well. It felt like we were skipping through the story too quickly and any hint of emotional climaxes fell flat. I wasn’t really invested in the characters.
I’ve not read anything else from this author to it could be a one off.
I’ve not read anything else from this author to it could be a one off.
July 22, 2024
Another book about bookshops?? Just what the world needed - another mediocre midlife drama set around a bookshop. Why not a butcher’s shop or hardware store??? TRY BEING A LITTLE MORE ORIGINAL
September 10, 2024
hank you to Aria and Aries for my Copy of The Bookshop Ladies by Faith Hogan
The opening of this book tugs at the heartstrings. Joy's world is shattered when she loses her beloved husband, Yves, and discovers his hidden secret about having a daughter. The thought of spending their retirement together is abruptly taken away when Yves tragically passes from a heart attack, leaving Joy utterly devastated.
In the midst of her grief, Joy summons the courage to personally deliver Yves' painting to his daughter, Robyn, in the quaint village of Ballycove, Ireland. The story unfolds in the captivating backdrop of the art world in Paris, where careers blossom, new life enters the world, and love takes shape. The narrative then transitions to the tranquil setting of an Irish village, where the intricacies of human relationships are explored during a summer of reflection.
The characters in this tale are deeply moving, each carrying their own burdens, fears, and vulnerabilities that enrich their interactions. The women in the story are portrayed as resilient and determined, pursuing the simple yet fulfilling joys of life - painting, managing a bookshop, and enjoying retirement above a bakery. This heartwarming narrative beautifully encapsulates the essence of friendship and love.
#TheBookshopLadies #FaithHogan #FriendshipandLove #ArtisticJourney #IrishVillageCharm #ResilienceandStrength #EmotionalNarrative #HeartwarmingStory #HumanConnections #TransformativeArt
The opening of this book tugs at the heartstrings. Joy's world is shattered when she loses her beloved husband, Yves, and discovers his hidden secret about having a daughter. The thought of spending their retirement together is abruptly taken away when Yves tragically passes from a heart attack, leaving Joy utterly devastated.
In the midst of her grief, Joy summons the courage to personally deliver Yves' painting to his daughter, Robyn, in the quaint village of Ballycove, Ireland. The story unfolds in the captivating backdrop of the art world in Paris, where careers blossom, new life enters the world, and love takes shape. The narrative then transitions to the tranquil setting of an Irish village, where the intricacies of human relationships are explored during a summer of reflection.
The characters in this tale are deeply moving, each carrying their own burdens, fears, and vulnerabilities that enrich their interactions. The women in the story are portrayed as resilient and determined, pursuing the simple yet fulfilling joys of life - painting, managing a bookshop, and enjoying retirement above a bakery. This heartwarming narrative beautifully encapsulates the essence of friendship and love.
#TheBookshopLadies #FaithHogan #FriendshipandLove #ArtisticJourney #IrishVillageCharm #ResilienceandStrength #EmotionalNarrative #HeartwarmingStory #HumanConnections #TransformativeArt
December 14, 2024
A Friendship Story
This book started slowly. It jumped between past and present and with different narrators making it difficult to connect with any of the characters for many chapters.
Joy was unbelievable because she was too perfect. Fern was an artist whose secrets upended everything but she was slow to accept ownership of that. And I didn’t bond with her either.
I liked Robyn the most. She had a clear positive character arc and the happy ending likable characters deserve.
And the bookshop is the sort of place you want to visit. The town of Ballycove made me want to head to Ireland immediately so I could have some of Shane’s coffee while watching the story unfold.
This book started slowly. It jumped between past and present and with different narrators making it difficult to connect with any of the characters for many chapters.
Joy was unbelievable because she was too perfect. Fern was an artist whose secrets upended everything but she was slow to accept ownership of that. And I didn’t bond with her either.
I liked Robyn the most. She had a clear positive character arc and the happy ending likable characters deserve.
And the bookshop is the sort of place you want to visit. The town of Ballycove made me want to head to Ireland immediately so I could have some of Shane’s coffee while watching the story unfold.
August 20, 2024
Reading this book took me back to the villages and towns I visited while in Ireland this summer. I loved that every city , town and village we visited there was a bookstore!! I actually bought this book in a bookstore in Dublin. This is a story about how a bookstore can unite a family and a community. My favorite quote from the wise Albie ""don't you know that at this stage every Yank that ever strode a pavement has Irish blood somewhere in their veins!" True!
February 5, 2025
This was a wonderful listen. A story about found family, friendship, love, mother-daughter bonds and women helping women. All of this revolves around a grieving widow from Paris who goes to a little bookshop in Ireland to deliver a painting to a step-daughter she didn't know existed. Great seaside descriptions, warm and interesting characters and a charming Irish lilt made this a lovely comforting listen.
February 7, 2025
If you are looking for a fast-paced story, this isn’t it. It is a great story of love and finding where you belong. I just wish the blurb didn’t play up the relationship between Robyn, Fern, and Joy so much. Did it cause conflict? Yes, but it wasn’t the main conflict. Still, this is a nice clean read that leaves the reader feel in happy at the end. I doubt I would read it a second time, but it’s nice reality fiction.
September 3, 2024
Dit is gewoon een super leuk boek !
October 27, 2024
Even though it was easy to guess what the ending would be like, I liked the story and how a single bookshop brought three women closer together.
December 16, 2024
Nice gentle story well told. Something to read after a gruesome murder.
December 29, 2024
This book is so intriguing that I recommended it highly to several friends. From Paris to Ireland, from secrets to revelation. I was hooked. Great characters very well drawn!
January 6, 2025
Such a cute story about family, friendship and community. I enjoyed the feel good story, as Allbie says, “family is not defined by love”. This story has me wanting to visit Ireland.
January 10, 2025
A lovely easy read. And now I definitely want to work in a little bookshop by the sea!!
January 11, 2025
Just an easy warm hug read 💕 change from all the thrillers and gore xxxx
January 29, 2025
First book tried of the Amazon subscription, a wholesome story, sometimes a bit predictable. Not sure what I’m craving in fiction at the moment..
February 1, 2025
Enjoyable read
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