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Saving the Single Dad's Bookstore
A doubtful owner. A determined employee.
Together, can they build a future?
After inheriting his late grandfather’s bookstore, Dominic Tang must make a big decision: keep it or sell. But manager Gianna Marchesi insists she can prove he should keep Tang’s Terrific Tomes open if he’ll stay in town for two months. Falling for the charms of the store—and Gianna—comes easy. But when property damage threatens his already-tight budget, will Dominic risk everything to follow his heart?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Together, can they build a future?
After inheriting his late grandfather’s bookstore, Dominic Tang must make a big decision: keep it or sell. But manager Gianna Marchesi insists she can prove he should keep Tang’s Terrific Tomes open if he’ll stay in town for two months. Falling for the charms of the store—and Gianna—comes easy. But when property damage threatens his already-tight budget, will Dominic risk everything to follow his heart?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
- GenresChristian FictionRomance
210 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2023
4 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Lam
25 books177 followersNicole Lam is a romance author who loves nothing more than, well, love. In her books, you’ll find emotional twists, heart-rending drama, and two broken people who find each other and choose happily ever after in spite of their problems. Her books feature heartwarming, relatable characters, swoony kisses, and no explicit scenes.
When she’s not writing, you can find her staying in her house for three-quarters of the year to avoid the Canadian winter, curling up with a good book, or learning yet another language.
To sign up for Nicole Lam's newsletter and get a free novella, go to https://www.subscribepage.com/novella
To join her street team and get free books, go to https://forms.gle/8xBaJ8zVZQbqXVgE6
When she’s not writing, you can find her staying in her house for three-quarters of the year to avoid the Canadian winter, curling up with a good book, or learning yet another language.
To sign up for Nicole Lam's newsletter and get a free novella, go to https://www.subscribepage.com/novella
To join her street team and get free books, go to https://forms.gle/8xBaJ8zVZQbqXVgE6
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 10, 2024
The story dragged on, and I did not care for Dominic at all.
December 11, 2023
Nicole Lam weaves a delightful tale of legacy, determination, self-discovery, and love in Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore. This tale is a charming romance that gently tugs at the heartstrings. The story follows Dominic Tang, the hesitant owner of his grandfather's bookstore, and the determined manager, Gianna Marchesi, who believes she can save the store and mend Dominic's guarded heart.
With genuine imperfections, the characters come to life, making them relatable and lovable. As a reader, I found myself both cheering for their love and shaking my head at their missteps.
Discovering and pursuing their true callings in the midst of societal and others’ expectations proves to be a struggle for both Dominic and Gianna. I could relate to their challenges, recognizing similarities to my own journey. Nicole has crafted characters that resonate, making it easy to feel connected and invested in their journey.
The author does a beautiful job seamlessly weaving familial and cultural elements into the story which provides nice depth and richness. The bookstore itself becomes a character in the story, lending a nostalgic and warm atmosphere enhancing the story and the reading experience.
Nicole's writing style is commendable, as she effortlessly knits together a wonderful story with a perfect blend of romance, humor, and cultural intricacies. The narrative is well-paced, keeping the reader engaged.
While the story embraces the joy of budding romance, it also introduces challenges that test the characters' commitment to each other. The element of risk adds a layer of tension that keeps the narrative dynamic and relatable.
Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore is a lovely four-star read that skillfully intertwines heartwarming romance, cultural richness, and a delightful touch of humor. This story confirms the reflective reassurance that, as children of God, His unwavering presence becomes an abundant source of comfort as we surrender to His guidance.
I received an eARC for Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore from the author, Nicole Lam. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on this story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
With genuine imperfections, the characters come to life, making them relatable and lovable. As a reader, I found myself both cheering for their love and shaking my head at their missteps.
Discovering and pursuing their true callings in the midst of societal and others’ expectations proves to be a struggle for both Dominic and Gianna. I could relate to their challenges, recognizing similarities to my own journey. Nicole has crafted characters that resonate, making it easy to feel connected and invested in their journey.
The author does a beautiful job seamlessly weaving familial and cultural elements into the story which provides nice depth and richness. The bookstore itself becomes a character in the story, lending a nostalgic and warm atmosphere enhancing the story and the reading experience.
Nicole's writing style is commendable, as she effortlessly knits together a wonderful story with a perfect blend of romance, humor, and cultural intricacies. The narrative is well-paced, keeping the reader engaged.
While the story embraces the joy of budding romance, it also introduces challenges that test the characters' commitment to each other. The element of risk adds a layer of tension that keeps the narrative dynamic and relatable.
Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore is a lovely four-star read that skillfully intertwines heartwarming romance, cultural richness, and a delightful touch of humor. This story confirms the reflective reassurance that, as children of God, His unwavering presence becomes an abundant source of comfort as we surrender to His guidance.
I received an eARC for Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore from the author, Nicole Lam. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on this story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
October 5, 2024
I LOVED this story! It gave off You've Got Mail Vibes. With the main character Gianna having to prove to the new owner of the book store that it could be profitable. Because he is determined to only stop into town, sell it, and move on. The Tropes: Enemies to Lovers (they were at odds for a while) Single Dad and Forced Proximity as they worked together to prep for the fair.
In this story Dominic has just inherited a book store. He comes back in town with the plan to sell it, make a profit, and move on. That is until he meets Gianna, who loves the store and is determined to show him it needs to stay, as is, and not being demolished. She gets him to agree to stay in town until the fair. He can see how big of an impact the store is to the community, and maybe they can even win at the fair to produce funds for it. They start out very much at odds, but over time Dom starts appreciating Crabtree and it's bookstore and maybe even the store manager, Gianna. But when a HUGE offer for the store and a job offer present themselves.... as a single dad, he is left to decide. Love or money? Stay in Crabtree where the money may not be plentiful, but his son would be happy and he could continue to see what's going on between him and Gianna. OR do as he planned, sell the store, get his new job, and put him and his son in a better place financially. What does he decide? And how will Gianna take the news?
❤️Loved this! Who doesn't like a book about a bookstore?! 📚
Looking forward to reading more books by Nicole!
In this story Dominic has just inherited a book store. He comes back in town with the plan to sell it, make a profit, and move on. That is until he meets Gianna, who loves the store and is determined to show him it needs to stay, as is, and not being demolished. She gets him to agree to stay in town until the fair. He can see how big of an impact the store is to the community, and maybe they can even win at the fair to produce funds for it. They start out very much at odds, but over time Dom starts appreciating Crabtree and it's bookstore and maybe even the store manager, Gianna. But when a HUGE offer for the store and a job offer present themselves.... as a single dad, he is left to decide. Love or money? Stay in Crabtree where the money may not be plentiful, but his son would be happy and he could continue to see what's going on between him and Gianna. OR do as he planned, sell the store, get his new job, and put him and his son in a better place financially. What does he decide? And how will Gianna take the news?
❤️Loved this! Who doesn't like a book about a bookstore?! 📚
Looking forward to reading more books by Nicole!
December 26, 2023
This is the perfect reconnection romance with God at the center of both of the main character's lives. This book is written in 3rd person omniscient. This was a quick read, clean romance, and highly entertaining especially if you love the happy ending of both characters.
Dominic:
Single dad, new bookstore owner. The catch is, that he wants nothing to do with this bookstore in his hometown, left to him by his grandfather. After being laid off from his job, Dominic returns to his hometown of Crabtree. Upon returning, Dominic is flooded with emotions that remind him of his ex (and the mother of his son). He becomes the talk of the town upon his return as well. Dominic agrees to give the bookstore one chance and a couple of months to see the potential. After opening himself up to the potential for love (found in the bookstore worker, Gianna). As Dominic ultimately decides to sell the bookstore, he realizes it is done to avoid feeling love and allowing himself to be loved.
Gianna:
While her family owns a restaurant in the town of Crabtree, she works at the local bookstore. While the bookstore undergoes new management (the grandson of the previous owner). While she has the family business to fall back on, Gianna knows that the bookstore is a huge staple in their small town. It is up to her to show the new owner, Dominic, how beloved the bookstore is by the town, and how much he is deserving of such love.
I received this as an ARC from Nicole Lam. This is my honest opinion and review of the book: Saving the Single Dad's Bookstore.
Dominic:
Single dad, new bookstore owner. The catch is, that he wants nothing to do with this bookstore in his hometown, left to him by his grandfather. After being laid off from his job, Dominic returns to his hometown of Crabtree. Upon returning, Dominic is flooded with emotions that remind him of his ex (and the mother of his son). He becomes the talk of the town upon his return as well. Dominic agrees to give the bookstore one chance and a couple of months to see the potential. After opening himself up to the potential for love (found in the bookstore worker, Gianna). As Dominic ultimately decides to sell the bookstore, he realizes it is done to avoid feeling love and allowing himself to be loved.
Gianna:
While her family owns a restaurant in the town of Crabtree, she works at the local bookstore. While the bookstore undergoes new management (the grandson of the previous owner). While she has the family business to fall back on, Gianna knows that the bookstore is a huge staple in their small town. It is up to her to show the new owner, Dominic, how beloved the bookstore is by the town, and how much he is deserving of such love.
I received this as an ARC from Nicole Lam. This is my honest opinion and review of the book: Saving the Single Dad's Bookstore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2023
Perhaps closer to 4.5 stars, I really enjoyed this one. Emmett is adorable and fun, and Gianna and Dominic were characters I felt I got to know and love. The author brought out both their strengths and insecurities and made them alive to the reader. Also, fighting to save a bookstore will always hold my interest. Adding bits of Italian and Chinese culture was an added plus. The only reason I didn’t give this one five stars was because I had a little trouble accepting that Jack would make the offer he did. As a reader, I wanted a little more insight into his motives. I will be looking for other books by this author.
December 28, 2023
Dominic Tang inherits a bookstore , but he’s inherited much more than he bargained for ….Gianna Marchesi the current manager asks for two months for him to stay to prove Tang’s Terrific Tomes is worth keeping open .And when he falls in love with bookish charms he knows who’s arms he’s bound ( couldn’t resist the pun) for… but there’s other elements that are threatening the structure and being a single dad , he hasn’t just himself to think about… family though maybe a life raft or a leaky vest. Read and find out the immersive unsinkable , unputdownable story. It’s well written and fun , a compelling read indeed
I read an advance copy and my review is voluntary
I read an advance copy and my review is voluntary
October 1, 2024
A wonderful contemporary romance read with honest & flawed characters set at a small town bookshop in Canada. Loved the setting! :)
I also loved that the characters celebrate their Asian heritage throughout the story. I definitely wanted to try some of the food, especially Dominic's mother's famous egg tarts and Gianna's shared Italian heritage at her family's Italian-Chinese fusion restaurant.
The relationship between Dom, Gianna and his son is so heartwarming! I was rooting for them so much even as the rollercoaster of their relationship happened to end in the lovely HEA. Such an enjoyable, cozy short read!
I also loved that the characters celebrate their Asian heritage throughout the story. I definitely wanted to try some of the food, especially Dominic's mother's famous egg tarts and Gianna's shared Italian heritage at her family's Italian-Chinese fusion restaurant.
The relationship between Dom, Gianna and his son is so heartwarming! I was rooting for them so much even as the rollercoaster of their relationship happened to end in the lovely HEA. Such an enjoyable, cozy short read!
December 17, 2023
I've been waiting for this book ever since Nicole dropped the first chapter on Wattpad. And just like my expectations and true to its subtitle, an uplifting, inspirational romance it truly was.
I loved the chemistry between Giana and Dominic! Everything about their life was so relatable that I felt really connected with them, drawing me deeper into the story. The faith elements were uplifting, and Nicole writing was phenomenal!
Oh wait, did forgot to mention a rambunctious seven-year-old who captures the heart of every reader? Emmett was adorable, if a little troublesome. But that made me love him a lot more! I loved every scenes where he was included—especially his prayer, man, I teared up a little and I couldn't keep the big smile off my face!
Everything about this book was cozy, with a bookstore in need of saving, family and friends, and great food too, lol! I highly recommend this book to everyone who love cozy reads, small town settings, heartwarming romances with faith elements.
All opinions are solely mine.
I loved the chemistry between Giana and Dominic! Everything about their life was so relatable that I felt really connected with them, drawing me deeper into the story. The faith elements were uplifting, and Nicole writing was phenomenal!
Oh wait, did forgot to mention a rambunctious seven-year-old who captures the heart of every reader? Emmett was adorable, if a little troublesome. But that made me love him a lot more! I loved every scenes where he was included—especially his prayer, man, I teared up a little and I couldn't keep the big smile off my face!
Everything about this book was cozy, with a bookstore in need of saving, family and friends, and great food too, lol! I highly recommend this book to everyone who love cozy reads, small town settings, heartwarming romances with faith elements.
All opinions are solely mine.
January 10, 2024
Such a fun romantic read! This small town romance had me from page one. The book jumps right into the story and continues to build smoothly all throughout until the end. The FMC and MMC have a slow build relationship and there’s plenty of tension and witty banter between the pages. The ending is so sweet and pulls together all the strings of the story nicely. This will definitely be a repeat read for me when I’m looking for a cozy read!
January 8, 2025
Gianna is caught off guard when she finds the new owner of the bookstore, Dominic, in the process of getting ready to gut it. She convinces him to give her time to change his mind but can she? Dominic is a single father worried about his financial future. She doesn't want to have to work at her family's restaurant and lose everything the bookstore means to her and the town. What will it take to save the bookstore? Is there a chance at romance? When his cousin comes to town interested in the store is it going to help or hurt everything set in motion?
I received an ARC via Story Origin. Review voluntarily given.
I received an ARC via Story Origin. Review voluntarily given.
August 14, 2024
Literally so cute, couldn’t put it down. If you like cozy foodie romantic book girl vibes YOU WILL LOVE THIS! A great novel to read on a chill self-care night, before bed, or at a bookstore ;)
Could not recommend enough. Nicole is a writer worth keeping on your bookshelf
Could not recommend enough. Nicole is a writer worth keeping on your bookshelf
December 18, 2023
Gianna Marchesi loves her job. She is the manager of a bookstore, Tang's Terrific Tomes. She takes great pride in her job and doing it well. The bookstore owner has passed away, and she has no idea who will take over the ownership of the bookstore. She is very nervous about her future.
Dominic Tang has inherited his grandfather's bookstore. He is a numbers guy. He is all about the bottom line, and by his estimations, the property where the bookstore is located would be more profitable as office space. He has no desire to live in Crabtree. He has bad memories that he left in the rearview mirror a long time ago. However, he does not count on the fireball known as Gianna wrecking his perfect plans. When she arrives and realizes his intentions, she takes a firm stand that he will be destroying what his grandfather worked so hard to accomplish. The bookstore is a vital part of the community. He is impressed with her willingness to stand up to him and make her case.
The third character in this book was my favorite - Dominic's son, Emmett. This kid is an adorable, book-loving ball of energy who at times leaves chaos in his trail. He is just so darn loveable. He is quite the charmer. In my opinion, he stole the show.
I loved Gianna's fierceness in protecting the bookstore and Dominic's grandfather's legacy. I know she loved her job, and did not want to lose it, but I feel she also wanted to honor his grandfather. I initially did not like Dominic, but once I learned more of his story, I understood him better. He was a fantastic father who just wanted what was best for his son. Somewhere along the way, he lost sight of what is most important. Both families were very complex. The Marchesi family were very strong minded in their opinions, but they loved one another. This was a charming romance with a cast of characters with strong personalities. It had all of the feels that are necessary for a good romance - deep emotion and heart-tugging romance.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dominic Tang has inherited his grandfather's bookstore. He is a numbers guy. He is all about the bottom line, and by his estimations, the property where the bookstore is located would be more profitable as office space. He has no desire to live in Crabtree. He has bad memories that he left in the rearview mirror a long time ago. However, he does not count on the fireball known as Gianna wrecking his perfect plans. When she arrives and realizes his intentions, she takes a firm stand that he will be destroying what his grandfather worked so hard to accomplish. The bookstore is a vital part of the community. He is impressed with her willingness to stand up to him and make her case.
The third character in this book was my favorite - Dominic's son, Emmett. This kid is an adorable, book-loving ball of energy who at times leaves chaos in his trail. He is just so darn loveable. He is quite the charmer. In my opinion, he stole the show.
I loved Gianna's fierceness in protecting the bookstore and Dominic's grandfather's legacy. I know she loved her job, and did not want to lose it, but I feel she also wanted to honor his grandfather. I initially did not like Dominic, but once I learned more of his story, I understood him better. He was a fantastic father who just wanted what was best for his son. Somewhere along the way, he lost sight of what is most important. Both families were very complex. The Marchesi family were very strong minded in their opinions, but they loved one another. This was a charming romance with a cast of characters with strong personalities. It had all of the feels that are necessary for a good romance - deep emotion and heart-tugging romance.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 26, 2023
5/5
Favourite Moments
📖 The first time they meet
📖 Scenes with little Emmett
📖 Cleaning up the bookstore scene
📖 Emmett, his grandparents, and Lilian trying to matchmake them together
📖 them opening up to each other.
📖 Their dinners together
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
📖 He encourages her.
📖 He cooks for her.
📖 He can read the book to the children really well.
📖 He did a fundraiser without her knowing
Synopsis:
Gianna
The manager of the Tang’s bookstore. Trying to prove to her parents that she can work on her dreams instead of just working in their family restaurant.
Dominic
A single dad who just lost his job, and reluctant to come back to Crabtree because of the past hurt that he experienced.
The owner of the Tang’s bookstore passed away and Dominic is now the owner of the bookstore and he can do anything he wanted with it. Gianna has to prove to him that this bookshop that she loves its profitable. Will they work together to keep bookstore running? Read Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore to find out!
Review:
Love this book so much. Can totally relate to the Asian culture especially the Chinese culture. They always will think that anything that is got to do with art it is not stable career and the better option is either work with the family business or study to become a lawyer, doctor or anything that it is stable. Gianna always wanted to paint however the parents say that she is never going to make it that’s why she wanted to prove to her parents that she can do it by working in the Tang’s bookstore because she is trying her best to go out of her popular brother’s and sister’s shadow. And I love the relationship between Dominic, Emmett and Gianna. People from the outside who doesn’t know that they are just working together they will think that they are a family because they are just sweet with each other. And also, the way that they encourage each other and comfort each other is really sweet too. And Gianna’s friend Lilian is so funny because she is like the cupid hehe…along with Dominic’s mom as well. And Emmett’s prayer so cute…
What I learn:
We can’t see what’s in the future because we are always afraid and think too much about what is going to happen next or even some of us planned our future but it doesn’t go the way we wanted but whatever it is we will never know our future except for God. God knows what our future is and also, He holds our future. So, we just need to depend on Him and let Him guide us through and trust Him.
This book is under Love Inspired Inspirational Romance series. You can check other books from Love Inspired.
Thank you, Nicole Lam for the ARC!
Can’t wait to read other books by Nicole Lam.
You can purchase her books on Amazon and it is available in KU.
Favourite Moments
📖 The first time they meet
📖 Scenes with little Emmett
📖 Cleaning up the bookstore scene
📖 Emmett, his grandparents, and Lilian trying to matchmake them together
📖 them opening up to each other.
📖 Their dinners together
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
📖 He encourages her.
📖 He cooks for her.
📖 He can read the book to the children really well.
📖 He did a fundraiser without her knowing
Synopsis:
Gianna
The manager of the Tang’s bookstore. Trying to prove to her parents that she can work on her dreams instead of just working in their family restaurant.
Dominic
A single dad who just lost his job, and reluctant to come back to Crabtree because of the past hurt that he experienced.
The owner of the Tang’s bookstore passed away and Dominic is now the owner of the bookstore and he can do anything he wanted with it. Gianna has to prove to him that this bookshop that she loves its profitable. Will they work together to keep bookstore running? Read Saving the Single Dad’s Bookstore to find out!
Review:
Love this book so much. Can totally relate to the Asian culture especially the Chinese culture. They always will think that anything that is got to do with art it is not stable career and the better option is either work with the family business or study to become a lawyer, doctor or anything that it is stable. Gianna always wanted to paint however the parents say that she is never going to make it that’s why she wanted to prove to her parents that she can do it by working in the Tang’s bookstore because she is trying her best to go out of her popular brother’s and sister’s shadow. And I love the relationship between Dominic, Emmett and Gianna. People from the outside who doesn’t know that they are just working together they will think that they are a family because they are just sweet with each other. And also, the way that they encourage each other and comfort each other is really sweet too. And Gianna’s friend Lilian is so funny because she is like the cupid hehe…along with Dominic’s mom as well. And Emmett’s prayer so cute…
What I learn:
We can’t see what’s in the future because we are always afraid and think too much about what is going to happen next or even some of us planned our future but it doesn’t go the way we wanted but whatever it is we will never know our future except for God. God knows what our future is and also, He holds our future. So, we just need to depend on Him and let Him guide us through and trust Him.
This book is under Love Inspired Inspirational Romance series. You can check other books from Love Inspired.
Thank you, Nicole Lam for the ARC!
Can’t wait to read other books by Nicole Lam.
You can purchase her books on Amazon and it is available in KU.
February 21, 2024
Eeeeeppp!!! I do so love a good ‘saving the bookstore’ trope and this one is just that! Well, once I got past Dominic’s bad first impression. I mean, that title is misleading — it should be “Saving the Bookstore from the Single Dad” because…gasp…the man wants to gut the store and turn it into offices! My heart sank into the depths of despair when I read that on page 9 and I wasn’t certain Dominic could ever be the hero my romantic heart was clamouring for. But I kept reading because there was a bookstore’s life on the line and I had to see it through to, thankfully, the happily ever after. So, phew, no bookstores were harmed (much) in the making of this book. 🙂
Dominic and Gianna clash from that inauspicious meet-cute. I was all set to purse-whomp Dominic on the spot, but Gianna was more wily than that. She issues him a challenge and sets out to prove the bookstore’s worth which turns into so much more than either of them bargained for.
Love the dynamics between these two. The way both are struggling with insecurities that cancel out when they are united. But, oy, it’s a bumpy ride to the finish line! Lots of family all in their business (with the best of intentions, of course) and some unexpected upsets that turn everything awry.
Really enjoyed the diversity of cast and location. Set in Alberta, Canada — yay — and I loved the bits of Chinese culture woven throughout. Secondary characters, including Dominic’s exuberant son, added extra ‘oomph’ to the story and kept me turning pages.
A fun contemporary romance to chase away the winter ‘blahs’.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/02/21/s...
Dominic and Gianna clash from that inauspicious meet-cute. I was all set to purse-whomp Dominic on the spot, but Gianna was more wily than that. She issues him a challenge and sets out to prove the bookstore’s worth which turns into so much more than either of them bargained for.
Love the dynamics between these two. The way both are struggling with insecurities that cancel out when they are united. But, oy, it’s a bumpy ride to the finish line! Lots of family all in their business (with the best of intentions, of course) and some unexpected upsets that turn everything awry.
Really enjoyed the diversity of cast and location. Set in Alberta, Canada — yay — and I loved the bits of Chinese culture woven throughout. Secondary characters, including Dominic’s exuberant son, added extra ‘oomph’ to the story and kept me turning pages.
A fun contemporary romance to chase away the winter ‘blahs’.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2024/02/21/s...
December 20, 2023
This is a book that I have been anticipating ever since reading its initial chapter, and it lived up to my expectations and more. Nicole Lam is skilled at drawing people into her stories and having them remain as a result of her well-paced writing that keeps readers suspended to the pages. Gianna and Dominic are relatable in their work struggles with their banter pointing to definite, underlying chemistry. Nicole writes such believable family interactions that these shine through the most in her books. Seeing her characters in the context of their families paints a more complete picture of their motivations and behaviour, enriching the story. This element is superbly carried out in Saving the Single Dad's Bookstore, where we can see cross-cultural dynamics at play.
What I most appreciate about this book is how the author weaves in spiritual truths about identity, redemption, and restoration over time. The issues that Gianna and Dominic face cannot be solved by sheer human will, acknowledging their shared need for God. Alongside these spiritual messages, there is gentle humour, a dash of villainy, immersive experiences with food, and touching scenes with Emmett, Dominic's son. Nicole's debut with Love Inspired will have readers feeling at home in the Canadian mountain town of Crabtree, not wanting to leave as they rally for the bookstore and its charming owners.
Review Link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
What I most appreciate about this book is how the author weaves in spiritual truths about identity, redemption, and restoration over time. The issues that Gianna and Dominic face cannot be solved by sheer human will, acknowledging their shared need for God. Alongside these spiritual messages, there is gentle humour, a dash of villainy, immersive experiences with food, and touching scenes with Emmett, Dominic's son. Nicole's debut with Love Inspired will have readers feeling at home in the Canadian mountain town of Crabtree, not wanting to leave as they rally for the bookstore and its charming owners.
Review Link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
December 29, 2023
Saving The Single Dad's Bookstore was my first "Love Inspired" book, and I enjoyed this sweet story. I liked getting to know both Dominic and Gianna (and Emmet), as well as seeing them grow and work through their insecurities and family expectations placed on them. I identified mostly with Gianna in this regard, and I loved the reminder of our value in God as well as of His love for us, and His power to redeem. While the start was somewhat slow for my liking, and this is one of the few books where I wouldn't have minded a bit more descriptions, the last few chapters had me flipping the pages as fast as I could. There are some tender moments/sweet gestures (mostly from Dominic), siblings' dynamics from Gianna's family, as well as some funny moments that had me smiling or laughing from Emmet. It was nice to see how unique this book was, with it being set in Canada and the representation of both Chinese and Italian culture. I can't wait to check out more of this author's work! ~ 4.5 stars
February 25, 2025
Saving the Single Dad's Bookstore was a perfect cozy & quick read. As a city girl myself, I always thought it would be really difficult for me to appreciate a slower paced life of a close-knit town, but the way Nicole painted the town of Crabtree in her book made me seriously wish it were a real place in Alberta that I could visit. I loved the subtle nods to how the characters' Asian culture affected their ways of thinking, their decision making, and where they sought value and purpose. The characters were authentically written, like I could see myself walking into Tang's and befriending the friendly shop manager Gianna and getting book recommendations from her. Meanwhile Dominic Tang reminds me so much of friends I grew up with struggling in their early careers desperate to land an interview let alone a job. Props to him for being a single parent on top of that.
I started and finished this book within a few hours over a single pot of tea and there was no better way I would have wanted to spend my Saturday afternoon.
I started and finished this book within a few hours over a single pot of tea and there was no better way I would have wanted to spend my Saturday afternoon.
December 28, 2023
Crabtree is the small town multi-cultural setting for this cute story. The author writes in an easy-to-read style, setting a good pace for the story and holding her readers’ attention by adding a few twists and turns at well-spaced intervals.
Gianna, from a noisy Italian/Chinese family restaurant-owning family, takes refuge in her job at her beloved bookstore until her livelihood is threatened by the death of the owner. His grandson, Dominic, intends gutting the store and turning it into a clinical office space.
As Gianna fights for her future, aided and abetted by Dom’s book-loving son, Dom is forced to re-examine his motives and consider other alternatives, while fighting unwanted feelings for Gianna!
I received a free review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Gianna, from a noisy Italian/Chinese family restaurant-owning family, takes refuge in her job at her beloved bookstore until her livelihood is threatened by the death of the owner. His grandson, Dominic, intends gutting the store and turning it into a clinical office space.
As Gianna fights for her future, aided and abetted by Dom’s book-loving son, Dom is forced to re-examine his motives and consider other alternatives, while fighting unwanted feelings for Gianna!
I received a free review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
November 30, 2023
I loved this book so much, and while cozy romances aren’t usually my kind of read, I felt connected and invested in these characters lives. Dominic and Gianna have amazing chemistry and I was completely sucked into their love story. It was heartwarming and infuriating, more than once I said I was mad at this character or that lol.
Nicole pieced together seamlessly a beautiful story with beautiful characters that had real flaws. I loved the fact that she knitted in the characters (as well as her own) culture.
Very well written Nicole! Well done love!
Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to go read every other book she's written.
Nicole pieced together seamlessly a beautiful story with beautiful characters that had real flaws. I loved the fact that she knitted in the characters (as well as her own) culture.
Very well written Nicole! Well done love!
Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to go read every other book she's written.
May 23, 2023
I had the pleasure of reading this book a couple of months ago, and I have to say I loved it so much. The love story between Gianna and Dominic is so inspiring and can relate to so many of our lives. I especially loved the addition of a bookstore and the coziness it added to their romance. Oh, and don't get me started on the little goofball, AKA Emmett. He's so adorable and silly, I love him! If you're looking for a book that is touching, comical, and will always be beautifully embedded in your heart, I definitely recommend this story!
December 30, 2023
3.5 Stars
As with all Love Inspired books, this is a sweet romance interlaced with a message of faith. Author Nicole Lam does a nice job with both—especially the faith element.
I also enjoyed the Canadian-Chinese cultural aspect of the story but wished the author had explored it more. Without spoiling too much of the book, I found several parts hard to believe, such as the grandfather's will, the deal with the cousin, and most of all, the reaction from the adults when a little boy goes missing.
That being said, it's a quick read and there are enough interesting components to hold you to the end.
As with all Love Inspired books, this is a sweet romance interlaced with a message of faith. Author Nicole Lam does a nice job with both—especially the faith element.
I also enjoyed the Canadian-Chinese cultural aspect of the story but wished the author had explored it more. Without spoiling too much of the book, I found several parts hard to believe, such as the grandfather's will, the deal with the cousin, and most of all, the reaction from the adults when a little boy goes missing.
That being said, it's a quick read and there are enough interesting components to hold you to the end.
May 4, 2024
Nicole Lam is a new author to me. She has a well written story with good characters and believable storyline. Yes, I would read more of her books!
Single dad, Dominic Tang has inherited his grandfather’s bookstore. He is planning to gut it and turn it into offices and return to Toronto, but manager Gianna Marchesi insists he gives the shop a chance, that he stays with it for two months and gets a feel for the shop. Dominic’s young son, Emmett, falls in love with the bookstore and the small town of Crabtree. Will Dominic keep a store in need of repairs, or sell and return to the city?
Single dad, Dominic Tang has inherited his grandfather’s bookstore. He is planning to gut it and turn it into offices and return to Toronto, but manager Gianna Marchesi insists he gives the shop a chance, that he stays with it for two months and gets a feel for the shop. Dominic’s young son, Emmett, falls in love with the bookstore and the small town of Crabtree. Will Dominic keep a store in need of repairs, or sell and return to the city?
January 2, 2024
The author was kind enough to give me a free copy of her book in exchange for an honest review. It was a sweet story about love and redemption with some faith weaved in between. I had trouble staying with the story until about 3/4 mark as story was on the slow side with no real conflict but it started to pick up from there . The main male mc comes to a crossroads where he has to make a decision that will afftect everyone greatly who is involved . The book does end in a happy ever after.
December 18, 2023
I was a little surprised by this book. I guess I thought there'd be more 'booky' talk, and also more faith in the book (especially given it's from the Love Inspired imprint) - but it seemed like there was more talk about food overall than either of these. Having said that, it was still a sweet read.
January 20, 2024
This book definitely has all the feels and will pull at your heart strings. We see 2 very determined people, determined to have their own way. Can they work together?
If you enjoy the Love Inspired series, I recommend this book. I did find the author's writing style a bit formal, or stiff, but I still enjoyed it.
If you enjoy the Love Inspired series, I recommend this book. I did find the author's writing style a bit formal, or stiff, but I still enjoyed it.
December 31, 2023
I really loved this story. Set in a bookstore with a lovely romance. Dominic inherits the store but isn't convinced to keep it. Gianni has a different idea. She just needs some time. It was a great story.
January 9, 2024
Cute story, easy read
June 26, 2024
This was so cute
January 19, 2024
Such a cute story. I loved the character growth of Dominic and Gianna throughout the book. Nicole writes a great story with the right amount of faith elements to be present but not stuffed down your throat. This was my first book from this author and won’t be my last!!! Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this book in return for a review. These words are my own.
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