Once Upon a Bookstore: A Tale Told Through the Lens of Time

by Leslie Gullo

Melinda Jenkins seemed to have it all — a successful career as a lawyer, a fiercely independent spirit, and a carefully crafted life of solitude. But when a routine assignment leads her to a small bookstore on Main Street, Melinda's world is turned upside down.
As she delves deeper into the mysteries of the bookstore, she meets Jake Samuels — a charming and irresistible bachelor who challenges her beliefs about love and independence.
Melinda must make a heart-wrenching choice: cling to her solitary life or take a leap of faith and embrace the love she never thought possible.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and explore the mysteries in Once Upon a Bookstore, a novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

397 pages, Paperback

Published January 7, 2025

About the author

Leslie Gullo is an award-winning author. She discovered her ‘just shy of obsession’ love of writing on a long road trip, leaving her eager to share her stories of love, adventure, and self-discovery. She is living proof that sometimes the best stories are the ones that surprise even their authors.

A proud Texan, Leslie lives with her husband and their beloved Brittany Spaniel, aptly named Brittany. Her two daughters and four grandchildren always bring joy and love into her life.

Reviews

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leslie Gullo's enchanting debut novel, Once Upon a Bookstore, is a masterfully crafted tale that combines elements of romance, magical realism, and time travel into a compelling narrative about love, healing, and self-discovery. Set in the charming town of Cascadia, this novel introduces us to Melinda Jenkins, a successful attorney whose carefully constructed world begins to transform when she steps into a seemingly ordinary bookstore.

The Magic of Storytelling

What sets this novel apart is Gullo's exceptional ability to blend the ordinary with the extraordinary. The story unfolds in layers, each more intriguing than the last, as we follow Melinda's journey from a guarded, independent woman to someone who learns to open her heart to love and possibilities.

Character Development

The character development in Once Upon a Bookstore is particularly noteworthy. Melinda's transformation from a woman bound by past trauma to someone who embraces love and family is both believable and inspiring. Jake Samuels, the charming astrophysics professor, brings a perfect balance of intelligence and warmth to the story. Their chemistry feels authentic, and their relationship develops naturally despite the supernatural elements surrounding them.

Key Themes

• The healing power of love and forgiveness
• The importance of family - both blood and chosen
• The transformative nature of books and stories
• The interconnectedness of past, present, and future
• The courage to embrace second chances

Narrative Structure and Style

Gullo's writing style is fluid and engaging, with a perfect balance of description and dialogue. The novel's pacing keeps readers engaged while allowing enough breathing room for emotional moments to resonate. The integration of multiple timelines and perspectives is handled skillfully, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories.

The Bookstore as a Character

Childleys' Books (later A New Chapter) serves as more than just a setting - it's practically a character in its own right. The bookstore's magical properties are revealed gradually, adding layers of mystery and wonder to the story without overwhelming the central narrative.

Unique Elements

The novel stands out for its innovative approach to time travel and magical realism. Rather than relying on traditional sci-fi elements, Gullo creates a world where magic exists in the everyday - in the power of books, in unexpected connections, and in the healing nature of love.

Social Commentary

While primarily a romance, the novel touches on deeper themes:

• The impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships
• The importance of forgiveness and redemption
• The role of community in healing and growth
• The power of choice in shaping our destiny

World Building

Cascadia comes alive through Gullo's detailed descriptions and rich characterization. The town feels both familiar and magical, populated by a diverse cast of supporting characters who each play crucial roles in the story's development.

Technical Excellence

The author demonstrates remarkable skill in:

• Maintaining multiple plot threads without losing focus
• Creating authentic dialogue that moves the story forward
• Developing complex characters with distinct voices
• Balancing emotional depth with plot progression

Impact and Resonance

The novel's messages about love, forgiveness, and the possibility of change resonate deeply. Particularly moving is the subplot involving Melinda's reconciliation with her father, which adds another layer of emotional depth to the story.

Conclusion

Once Upon a Bookstore is a remarkable debut that announces Leslie Gullo as a talented new voice in contemporary fiction. It's a story that reminds us that it's never too late for second chances, that love can heal even the deepest wounds, and that sometimes the most magical stories are the ones we live ourselves.

The novel's strength lies in its ability to make readers believe in the possibility of magic while keeping the story grounded in authentic human emotions and experiences. It's a book that stays with you long after the final page, inviting reflection on our own capacity for love, forgiveness, and transformation.

Perfect for readers who enjoy:

• Contemporary romance with magical elements
• Stories about healing and personal growth
• Time travel narratives with emotional depth
• Books about books and the power of storytelling
• Complex family dynamics and redemption arcs

Additional Notes

Leslie Gullo has crafted a promising debut that sets high expectations for her future work. Her upcoming mystery novel, "And Then Again, Murder Told With an Artful Twist," scheduled for release in 2025, suggests she'll continue to explore different genres while maintaining her signature style of blending reality with elements of the extraordinary.

Once Upon a Bookstore is more than just a romance - it's a testament to the transformative power of love, the importance of connection, and the magic that can be found in everyday life when we open our hearts to possibilities.

[Dipalee Joshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Past Meets Present: A Time-Bending Tale of Love and Destiny

In the tapestry of time travel fiction, Leslie Gullo's Once Upon a Bookstore emerges as a uniquely crafted narrative that challenges our understanding of destiny and second chances. Through the enigmatic Childleys' Books, Gullo creates a temporal crossroads where past, present, and future converge in unexpected and heartwarming ways.

The story's temporal elements unfold like delicate origami, revealing their complexity gradually through the lives of Melinda Jenkins and Jake Samuels. When thirteen-year-old Scarlett arrives from the future, their seemingly separate timelines begin to interweave in fascinating patterns. Gullo masterfully handles these temporal intersections without getting tangled in paradoxical complications.

What sets this novel apart from traditional time travel narratives is its intimate focus on personal transformation. Rather than grand historical events, the story explores how small moments ripple through time, affecting generations. The disappearance of Allison and Henry Morgan, their journey through time, and their daughter Melinda's eventual discovery of her aunt's true identity create a beautifully intricate temporal loop.

The bookstore serves as a temporal nexus, reminiscent of Audrey Niffenegger's meadow in "The Time Traveler's Wife," but with its own unique rules and mysteries. Through this magical setting, Gullo explores how time can heal wounds across generations, particularly evident in Melinda's reconciliation with her father, which occurs precisely when it needs to in both timelines.

Gullo's approach to causality is particularly intriguing - every event, from Melinda's childhood rescue by her time-traveling aunt to Scarlett's crucial role in saving Lacy's life, feels both predestined and chosen. This delicate balance between fate and free will keeps readers questioning the nature of time itself.

For lovers of temporal fiction, Once Upon a Bookstore offers a fresh perspective on how the past shapes our present and how love can transcend the boundaries of time. It's a reminder that sometimes the most important journeys through time are the ones that lead us back to ourselves.

[Khushbu Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Leslie Gullo's enchanting debut novel, a simple bookstore becomes the catalyst for an extraordinary journey of love, healing, and self-discovery. Set in the charming town of Cascadia, Once Upon a Bookstore weaves together the lives of Melinda Jenkins, a guarded attorney, and Jake Samuels, a stargazing professor, in ways that transcend ordinary romance.

What makes this novel shine is Gullo's masterful blend of magical realism with deeply human emotions. The story begins when Melinda enters Childleys' Books on a routine legal assignment, but quickly evolves into something far more extraordinary. As the mysterious bookstore works its magic, we witness Melinda's transformation from someone who guards her heart to a woman who learns to embrace love's possibilities.

The author crafts her characters with remarkable depth and authenticity. Melinda's journey to overcome her past trauma feels genuine, while Jake's passion for the stars adds a layer of wonder to their developing relationship. Supporting characters like the enigmatic Grace and Sam Childley, the vibrant Scarlett, and the Morgan twins each add rich dimensions to the narrative.

Particularly touching is the subplot involving Melinda's reconciliation with her father, which parallels her growing ability to trust in love. Gullo handles these emotional threads with sensitivity and grace, showing how healing can happen across generations.

The bookstore itself emerges as a character in its own right, serving as a bridge between past and present, reality and magic. Through its mysterious properties, Gullo explores themes of destiny, choice, and the interconnectedness of all things.

This debut novel announces Gullo as a fresh voice in contemporary fiction, one who understands that the most powerful magic often exists in the everyday moments of human connection. *Once Upon a Bookstore* reminds us that sometimes the greatest adventures begin when we simply open our hearts to the unexpected.

[Krinal Savaliya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between the weathered shelves of Childleys' Books lies a mystery that spans generations. Leslie Gullo's enchanting debut novel invites readers through a beaded curtain and into a world where unexplained disappearances, hidden messages, and impossible connections weave together like pages in an ancient tome.

The story begins innocuously enough - attorney Melinda Jenkins enters the bookstore on a routine assignment to negotiate its purchase. But like any good mystery, first appearances prove deceptive. Why do the Morgan twins insist on buying this particular bookstore? What happened to their parents thirteen years ago? And why do the current owners, Grace and Sam Childley, seem to know more than they're telling?

Gullo masterfully layers her clues throughout the narrative. A signed first edition of H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine," a bookmark with a hidden message, a grandfather clock holding secrets - each piece fits perfectly into a puzzle that spans decades. The bookstore itself becomes a character, holding its mysteries close like well-thumbed pages of a beloved book.

The investigation deepens when young Scarlett appears, bringing with her questions that seem to connect impossibly to both past and future. As Melinda and astronomy professor Jake Samuels work to unravel these mysteries, they discover that some answers can only be found by looking beyond the obvious.

What sets this mystery apart is Gullo's ability to blend the inexplicable with the intimate. While uncovering the truth about the Morgan twins' parents, Melinda must also solve the mystery of her own heart. The author leaves carefully placed clues about love, trust, and redemption that readers will delight in discovering.

Like the best bookstore mysteries, Once Upon a Bookstore reminds us that every book holds secrets, every story contains clues, and sometimes the greatest mysteries are the ones we carry within ourselves. It's a tale that will keep readers turning pages long into the night, wondering what other secrets might be hidden between the lines.

[Book Nerdection]

Leslie Gullo knows how to create an atmosphere. Most readers who pick up this book will be devoted book lovers, and the story will gratify that part of their personalities with its literary quotes, inclusion of popular titles, and, of course, the bookstore setting where the story begins—a place frequently visited by the protagonists.

For those who may not be as prolific in their reading, the descriptive imagery of Childleys’ Bookstore could still draw them in. The idea of a place where a cure to your worldly problems sits on a shelf, waiting for you between the bound pages of a book, is something I’d imagine would bring comfort to many. The cozy and inviting aura of the store and its owners is enough to tempt anyone to walk through the proverbial front door, flipping through chapter after chapter as they slowly feel the weight lift off their shoulders—transcending a work of fiction, even if that feeling of lightness lasts only for a little while.

As every rose has its thorns, so too does this book. While time travel is a major theme influencing the key events in the lives of both main and secondary characters, the timeline between these events is somewhat ambiguous. More definitive intervals would have better grounded the story, making it easier for readers to grasp the gravity of each event.

Take, for example, the reconciliation between Melinda and her biological father, Tim. The vagueness of the timeframe—from their initial encounter on the streets of Cascadia to Melinda accepting the repentant, transformed version of her father—almost trivializes the serious subject matter that defines both of their pasts.

All in all, not bad at all for a debut. This book provides a strong starting point, offering valuable insight for refining the path ahead before venturing into newer and more challenging projects!

Reviewed By Chantal

[Ciara Carlson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the premise of this book. The interwoven timelines and ways in which characters connected were very cleverly done.

This book would have been four stars for me instead of three if there was a bit more trust in the readers and nuance and reality added to the characters. The inner monologue of all the main characters spelled out everything for the reader, when I wanted to be shown and trusted to pick up on patterns and themes. The characters underwent change and growth so quickly it made the story a bit unbelievable (even more magical realism).

Overall I enjoyed reading the book, but would hope future books by the author give a bit more credit to their readers.

[Anne G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would have. I loved this book, I am looking forward to more of her her books.

[Sherry A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to thank the author, publisher, and Goodreads for gifting me this absolutely delightful book. I enjoyed it so much, and highly recommend adding it to your “must read” list.

[Ella Tormey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks to Goodreads, the publisher, and the author for sending me a copy of this book. The story was adorable and the characters were very lovable. However, the writing quality was atrocious. It was incredibly repetitive, and way too much telling instead of showing. I think this book needs to go through a bit more editing.

[Prakruti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Step through the beaded curtain of Childleys' Books, and you might find yourself slipping through the fabric of time itself. Leslie Gullo's mesmerizing debut novel crafts an intricate temporal mystery where past, present, and future interweave as delicately as the pages of an ancient book.

Thirteen years ago, Allison and Henry Morgan vanished from a bookstore, leaving behind only a key and a copy of "The Time Machine." Now, their children seek answers through the purchase of that same establishment. Enter Melinda Jenkins, a lawyer whose routine assignment becomes anything but when she discovers her own story mysteriously entangled with the Morgans' disappearance.

Gullo masterfully constructs a temporal puzzle box where every piece serves multiple purposes across different timelines. A handmade bookmark carries a mother's message through decades. A grandfather clock holds secrets in its silent hands. And a mysterious young girl named Scarlett arrives with knowledge that seems impossible - unless you believe in the magic of books and the fluidity of time.

The author navigates her temporal paradoxes with the precision of a master clockmaker. Each revelation clicks into place like perfectly aligned gears, driving the story forward while simultaneously illuminating the past. The bookstore itself serves as a nexus point where timelines converge and diverge, its seemingly random arrangement of shelves creating pathways through both space and time.

What makes this time-travel mystery unique is its deeply personal nature. While unraveling the cosmic riddle of the Morgans' disappearance, Melinda must also solve the mystery of her own heart, aided by astrophysicist Jake Samuels, who understands better than most how time can bend and fold upon itself.

For readers who love puzzling out temporal enigmas while exploring the deeper mysteries of human connection, "Once Upon a Bookstore" delivers a satisfyingly complex narrative that proves some stories are timeless. Just remember - in this bookstore, even the most ordinary day might spiral into an extraordinary adventure through time.

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leslie Gullo’s Once Upon a Bookstore: A Tale Told Through the Lens of Time offers an intriguing premise: a successful lawyer, Melinda Jenkins, finds her carefully constructed life upended by a mysterious bookstore and a charming bachelor named Jake Samuels. The book boasts a high rating, and for good reason – the initial setup is engaging, and the characters are undoubtedly captivating.

Gullo paints a picture of a fiercely independent Melinda whose solitude is both a shield and a source of contentment. The allure of the bookstore, whispered secrets within its walls, and the immediate spark between Melinda and Jake create a compelling hook. The author successfully introduces a layer of mystery from the get-go, drawing the reader in with the promise of uncovering secrets and exploring Melinda’s transformation.

The romance with Jake also adds to the charm. He challenges Melinda’s preconceived notions about love and independence, forcing her to confront her vulnerabilities and consider a life beyond her solitary existence. The “irresistible bachelor” trope is handled relatively well, with Jake possessing enough genuine qualities to make him a believable love interest.

However, the story unfortunately hits a snag in the middle. The narrative slows at one point and becomes repetitive. Despite the mid-book slump, the inclusion of a little bit of science adds an interesting layer to the overall narrative. This scientific element plays a role in the mystery surrounding the bookstore.

Once Upon a Bookstore offers a promising blend of romance, mystery, and a touch of science-fiction. The engaging characters and intriguing premise are strong draws, but readers should be aware of the potential for a slower, repetitive section in the middle. If you enjoy stories about self-discovery, charming bookstore settings, and a little bit of mystery mixed with romance, this book is worth picking up. The engaging beginning and intriguing elements might just be enough to keep you turning the pages until the end.

[Jenntleh · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Once Upon a Bookstore, readers are welcomed into a magical, tucked-away shop where new “owners” are chosen by fate, not by résumé. These new caretakers must decide if they’re ready to take on a role that involves more than just running a bookstore—it includes a kind of book-magic: an innate ability to know just the right story for each person who walks in. Much of their time is spent reading in a cozy nook, which adds to the charm, though I did wonder how much actual bookselling takes place!

A secondary mystery emerges involving the disappearance of two older teen customers’ parents—frequent visitors to the shop. This thread quietly shapes the emotional core of the novel and ties into its bigger themes of love, loss, and responsibility. As someone who loves a happily-ever-after, I wrestled with some of the moral gray areas. The story raises thoughtful questions: Do the ends justify the means? Is one person’s pain more acceptable than another’s? Ultimately, the book suggests that lessons were learned, and new safeguards are put in place.

One element I found less satisfying—also seen in other recent reads—is a character who initially decides motherhood isn’t for her, only to change her mind due to shifting circumstances. While once relatable, that arc now feels like it undermines a valid and personal choice.

Still, this was a sweet and emotionally rich journey. With cozy bookshop vibes, light fantasy, and themes of restoration and new beginnings, Once Upon a Bookstore is a comforting read for those who enjoy a touch of magic in everyday life.

[Lisa Martin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received this book as part of the Goodreads Giveaway program.

The premise of this book is delightful and the characters are charming, but the writing is so redundant. This book desperately needs an editor! The chapters were confusing, the storyline was hard to follow because the story jumped around so much, and there were so many characters across multiple timelines, which made the story really challenging to appreciate.

I wish I could give a more positive review, but editing would have made a world of difference!

[Jeffrey Gullo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was not my typical read but I did enjoy it. Hidden inside this romantic mystery novel was a lot of ideas about how to live a good life in these crazy times. A perfect gift for my daughters as they move into their careers and start building families of their own! Worth a quick read for sure.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was not at all what I expected. It was good but I think my 10-year-old self would have LOVED it. It is definitely a feel-good book with a bit of mystery - a bit too far fetched for me as an adult but as a child who loved to read - I would have LOVED it. I would give it 3.5 stars as an adult.

[Joann Toledo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting

Enjoyed the overall story. There were some parts that were repetitive but I can understand wanting to give the story from different perspectives. I would recommend this book to anyone who's interested in reading about things that make one question is what happens in our lives fate or destiny.

[Marguerite McPherson · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!

I was totally hooked into this story within the first two pages. Some of the characters experience time travel, some experience the power of forgiveness, one totally does a 180 for the better. I would LOVE to know what happens next and am hoping the author wrote or will write a sequel.

[Jill Derrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting and entertaining summer read.

Such an unusual story of time travel. Great characters but all the different travels got a bit confusing. Fun summer read to let your imagination run wild for a bit of time.

[Susan Marie Ballain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautifully written and masterful piece of writing! I was inspired and intrigued with the synopsis!
These pages had me wanting more!! I needed to know what was to become of the future and the present!
I loved the characters and the premise of the plot!!

[Alyssa Disbrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet story with lots of twists and turns! If you are looking for a story of resilience, mystery, and fate, read this book!

[Ileana G · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't realise it is a digitalized audio, I thought it was boring and too long.
But till the end, the story was a little better.

[Janet · Rating 2 out of 5]

Long, weird and confusing.

[Christine Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love the concept but the storytelling and dialogue leave a lot to be desired.

[Michele Schneider · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story but the time travel part was a bit confusing! Good ending!