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Borrow a Bookshop #5
A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop
Will her new love story be the one she's read before?
A decade after they said goodbye after graduation, old friends Harri and Annie reunite in the beautiful village of Clove Lore in Devon – what more could these bookworms want than a holiday running the tumbledown bookshop?
Unbeknownst to Annie, Harri is arriving with a bruised heart after the end of his long-term relationship, while Annie is running away from painful memories in Texas.
Elsewhere in Clove Lore, the mysterious owner of Castle Lore has died, causing much gossip in the village. When Harri and Annie are sent to investigate the huge Gothic library, they find themselves locked in overnight and soon, are discovering their connection might be more than just good friends...
A decade after they said goodbye after graduation, old friends Harri and Annie reunite in the beautiful village of Clove Lore in Devon – what more could these bookworms want than a holiday running the tumbledown bookshop?
Unbeknownst to Annie, Harri is arriving with a bruised heart after the end of his long-term relationship, while Annie is running away from painful memories in Texas.
Elsewhere in Clove Lore, the mysterious owner of Castle Lore has died, causing much gossip in the village. When Harri and Annie are sent to investigate the huge Gothic library, they find themselves locked in overnight and soon, are discovering their connection might be more than just good friends...
322 pages, Paperback
Published January 23, 2025
15 people are currently reading
300 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
January 16, 2025
3⭐️
I'm very conflicted about this one. some parts I was intrigued by and then i was bored just as quickly. I think the story had promise but it just failed to hold my attention. thank you to Netgalley for the arc ☄️🏹
I'm very conflicted about this one. some parts I was intrigued by and then i was bored just as quickly. I think the story had promise but it just failed to hold my attention. thank you to Netgalley for the arc ☄️🏹
February 7, 2025
This series gets better with each book. This bookworm would love to be in Clove Lore and be in charge of a book shop for a fortnight. A book lovers dream job.
November 9, 2024
I make no secret of the fact that I am a total Kiley Dubar Fan. I have read every one of her books and love the worlds she builds. They are relatable and visitable all in one!
Clovelore is somewhere I want to go, and I've already said in previous reviews that if there were a Borrow A Bookshop holiday scheme, I would 100% be up for it!
This time, we meet the new borrowers, Harri and Annie, old friends who were Uni pals and flatmates, then separated after graduation. Harri stayed in Wales with his girlfriend, and Annie flew back to The States.
The simmering chemistry between these two friends is obvious, and Kiley turns the heat up in teeny notches. You can feel the attraction slowly reaching the boiling point, and I love how she does that!
Of course,, we get to catch up with all the other Clovelore locals and some of the previous borrowers, as well as meet a wonderful new character, William Sabine, who has a heartbreaking story of his own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful read. Although it can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend the rest of the series, too, simply because it is such a brilliant concept!
May thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an ARC.
Clovelore is somewhere I want to go, and I've already said in previous reviews that if there were a Borrow A Bookshop holiday scheme, I would 100% be up for it!
This time, we meet the new borrowers, Harri and Annie, old friends who were Uni pals and flatmates, then separated after graduation. Harri stayed in Wales with his girlfriend, and Annie flew back to The States.
The simmering chemistry between these two friends is obvious, and Kiley turns the heat up in teeny notches. You can feel the attraction slowly reaching the boiling point, and I love how she does that!
Of course,, we get to catch up with all the other Clovelore locals and some of the previous borrowers, as well as meet a wonderful new character, William Sabine, who has a heartbreaking story of his own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful read. Although it can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend the rest of the series, too, simply because it is such a brilliant concept!
May thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an ARC.
January 18, 2025
A New Chapter at the Borrow-a-Bookshop is the fifth in this lovely series by Kiley Dunbar. In each book we meet a new set of ‘borrowers’, people who come and live in the bookshop in the Devonshire seaside village of Clove Lore. As each book focusses on the borrowers, they are stand-alone reads. However, you will meet characters from the previous novels too which is always a treat as a reader. And really, this whole series is so lovely I’d recommend you read them all anyway!
I think that Harri and Annie may be my favourite borrowers yet! They are old friends from their uni days and secretly, each perhaps wanted to be more than friends. When they arrive for their two weeks running the bookshop, Harri has recently split up with his long-term girlfriend while Annie has been suspended from her job as a school librarian in Texas over becoming involved in a book banning controversary.
Love is always in the air in Clove Lore, often helped along the way by self-proclaimed matchmaker Mrs Crocombe. It seems that the magic of the bookshop and the pretty little village casts its spell over visitors and residents alike. Everyone ends the book a little more loved up than they were at the beginning.
One thing I really liked about this book was the focus on reading for enjoyment and for well-being. I actually loved the idea of the silent reading book club: a night in the bookshop where everyone just brought along their own books, switched off from the outside world from a bit and read their books in companionable silence.
As well as Harri and Annie’s story, I really enjoyed the other side stories. There’s the mysterious elderly gentlemen who seems to have nowhere to live but a strong connection to Castle Lore. There’s intrigue when two local residents go missing. And of course, there the issue of whether it’s right for books to be banned (well, of course not!) and how people should be allowed to read what they want but also find representation in their books.
I know that Kiley Dunbar is working on a new series now but I really hope that this isn’t the last we will see of the Borrow-a-Bookshop. I adored this friends to lovers story which was emotional, big-hearted and such a satisfying read As the book is set in the run-up to Valentine’s Day, it really is the perfect romantic read for this time of year.
I think that Harri and Annie may be my favourite borrowers yet! They are old friends from their uni days and secretly, each perhaps wanted to be more than friends. When they arrive for their two weeks running the bookshop, Harri has recently split up with his long-term girlfriend while Annie has been suspended from her job as a school librarian in Texas over becoming involved in a book banning controversary.
Love is always in the air in Clove Lore, often helped along the way by self-proclaimed matchmaker Mrs Crocombe. It seems that the magic of the bookshop and the pretty little village casts its spell over visitors and residents alike. Everyone ends the book a little more loved up than they were at the beginning.
One thing I really liked about this book was the focus on reading for enjoyment and for well-being. I actually loved the idea of the silent reading book club: a night in the bookshop where everyone just brought along their own books, switched off from the outside world from a bit and read their books in companionable silence.
As well as Harri and Annie’s story, I really enjoyed the other side stories. There’s the mysterious elderly gentlemen who seems to have nowhere to live but a strong connection to Castle Lore. There’s intrigue when two local residents go missing. And of course, there the issue of whether it’s right for books to be banned (well, of course not!) and how people should be allowed to read what they want but also find representation in their books.
I know that Kiley Dunbar is working on a new series now but I really hope that this isn’t the last we will see of the Borrow-a-Bookshop. I adored this friends to lovers story which was emotional, big-hearted and such a satisfying read As the book is set in the run-up to Valentine’s Day, it really is the perfect romantic read for this time of year.
February 17, 2025
Really enjoyed another trip to the borrow a bookshop
January 26, 2025
A wonderful return to a superb series by @kileydunbarauthor 📚 I’ve adored every visit to Clove Lore and the Borrow a Bookshop. This visit was as special as always; uniting people in many ways (and of course romantically!) This community is just so amazing, I wish I could just transport myself to meet everyone, they are so kind.
Harri and Annie are the borrowers this time around, they’ve been best friends since Uni despite living half a world away from each other. Feelings of more than friendship have been pushed down as neither want to risk losing the other. Maybe sometimes risks need to be taken.
Books, love, fighting for what is right, fighting for what you love, not letting others dictate what you can or can’t do/read/be. This wasn’t just your typical rom-com.
Brilliant read, I’ll be gutted if we don’t return to Clove Lore again in the future but I urge you to take a visit!
Harri and Annie are the borrowers this time around, they’ve been best friends since Uni despite living half a world away from each other. Feelings of more than friendship have been pushed down as neither want to risk losing the other. Maybe sometimes risks need to be taken.
Books, love, fighting for what is right, fighting for what you love, not letting others dictate what you can or can’t do/read/be. This wasn’t just your typical rom-com.
Brilliant read, I’ll be gutted if we don’t return to Clove Lore again in the future but I urge you to take a visit!
December 11, 2024
Time for another lovely instalment of the Borrow a Bookshop series. Be ready for another heartwarming tale, not just because of our lead characters, but also the ones we meet along the way.
I love how, although this book is set in the same familiar surroundings as the previous four books, it’s so different from all the other stories.
I love how the bookstore brings different dynamics of people together, this time two old friends who haven’t seen each other in a long time, both at crossroads in their lives. We revisit familiar characters but also meet some other local people who become imperative to this story. The sense of community resonates through this book and will have you wanting to move to Clove Lore before you have even finished reading.
You could pick this up as a stand alone but I do recommend reading the whole series to really get into Clove Lore and meet all the residents there.
A lovely read, great character development and vivid descriptions so you will visit everywhere in your minds eye.
I hope we get to visit the Borrow a Bookshop again some time soon!
I love how, although this book is set in the same familiar surroundings as the previous four books, it’s so different from all the other stories.
I love how the bookstore brings different dynamics of people together, this time two old friends who haven’t seen each other in a long time, both at crossroads in their lives. We revisit familiar characters but also meet some other local people who become imperative to this story. The sense of community resonates through this book and will have you wanting to move to Clove Lore before you have even finished reading.
You could pick this up as a stand alone but I do recommend reading the whole series to really get into Clove Lore and meet all the residents there.
A lovely read, great character development and vivid descriptions so you will visit everywhere in your minds eye.
I hope we get to visit the Borrow a Bookshop again some time soon!
January 7, 2025
I finished this book today, and I can say, it left me feeling calm and peaceful. It wasn’t a book filled with intense, dramatic moments, but a soft and lovely story that was exactly what I needed after reading some fast-paced and emotionally charged books.
The story revolves around Harri and Annie, two friends from their university days who meet again after eight years at a charming little borrow a bookshop by the sea. They’re on a 14-day holiday living and working at the bookshop, and honestly, it felt like every book lover’s dream: running a bookshop, being surrounded by books, and enjoying the tranquility of a seaside town.
The book beautifully captures the charm of bookshops, community bonding, and the peace that reading can bring. I especially loved how the story touched on importance of reading and memories and the concept of silent book clubs. It gave me a sense of warmth and calm that I can’t quite put into words.
Harri and Annie’s relationship is a slow burn, with both of them hesitant to change their long-standing friendship into something more. It’s a story about patience, understanding, and cherishing the bonds we share.
While the pacing of the story was slow at times, it worked well for this kind of narrative. The ending, in particular, left me feeling satisfied, with everything falling into place perfectly. Unlike some recent books I’ve read where the ending didn’t quite meet my expectations.
Of course, like every book, this one had its flaws, but the overall experience was so heartwarming that I didn’t mind them. It’s a memorable read, one that leaves you with a sense of peace and gratitude for the simple joys in life.
The story revolves around Harri and Annie, two friends from their university days who meet again after eight years at a charming little borrow a bookshop by the sea. They’re on a 14-day holiday living and working at the bookshop, and honestly, it felt like every book lover’s dream: running a bookshop, being surrounded by books, and enjoying the tranquility of a seaside town.
The book beautifully captures the charm of bookshops, community bonding, and the peace that reading can bring. I especially loved how the story touched on importance of reading and memories and the concept of silent book clubs. It gave me a sense of warmth and calm that I can’t quite put into words.
Harri and Annie’s relationship is a slow burn, with both of them hesitant to change their long-standing friendship into something more. It’s a story about patience, understanding, and cherishing the bonds we share.
While the pacing of the story was slow at times, it worked well for this kind of narrative. The ending, in particular, left me feeling satisfied, with everything falling into place perfectly. Unlike some recent books I’ve read where the ending didn’t quite meet my expectations.
Of course, like every book, this one had its flaws, but the overall experience was so heartwarming that I didn’t mind them. It’s a memorable read, one that leaves you with a sense of peace and gratitude for the simple joys in life.
November 17, 2024
Every book lovers dream is to run a book shop, so when the opportunity comes for Harri and Annie to run a lovely bookshop in a small village in Devon for a fortnight, they sign themselves up. Annie and Harri have been best friends since uni, although life gets in the way and they drift apart a little over the post uni days, hopefully this holiday will bring them back together. Will their friendship be enough? Or is there more there for the both of them?
This is such a lovely feel good book about friendship, love, loss and everything in between.
This is such a lovely feel good book about friendship, love, loss and everything in between.
February 22, 2025
A really enjoyable addition to the series. I only took longer due to personal circumstances, not that I didn't want to read more.
January 23, 2025
Kiley Dunbar is a new to me author. I am so glad that I found her and this series. This book is the fifth and final book in the series. It has convinced me that I need to go back and read the other four books.
I love the premise of this story. Heading to a small British seaside town to run a quaint bookstore for two weeks - sign me up please!!
Harri & Annie are friends from University and have decided to take on this adventure together. They have denied their feelings for each for so long. The push and pull between these two is so well written. The way their feelings for each other build throughout the entire story is chef’s kiss 💋! This book is a perfect example of a slow burn.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
I love the premise of this story. Heading to a small British seaside town to run a quaint bookstore for two weeks - sign me up please!!
Harri & Annie are friends from University and have decided to take on this adventure together. They have denied their feelings for each for so long. The push and pull between these two is so well written. The way their feelings for each other build throughout the entire story is chef’s kiss 💋! This book is a perfect example of a slow burn.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
January 18, 2025
This was the first book I had read of Kiley’s and I was very excited by the premise…
‘Advertisement: A Novel Holiday Idea
Borrow-A-Bookshop invites you to live out your dreams of running your very own bookshop in a historic Devonshire harbour village... for a fortnight.
Spend your days talking about books with customers in your own charming bookshop and serving up delicious food in your cosy cafe nook. Get to know our wonderful volunteers (all locals), always ready to offer a helping hand.
After shutting up shop, climb the spiral staircase to your bedroom with picture window seat and settle down to admire the Atlantic views. When your holiday’s over, simply hand the keys to the next holidaymaker…’
I mean, how wonderful would this opportunity be?!! 🤩
I quickly got into the story of ‘new borrowers’ Harri and Annie but I soon became frustrated with their will they-won’t they romance and found myself skim-reading pages. If I’m completely honest, in parts, I found their story a little boring 😬 Not much really happened and their two weeks at the book shop felt more like two months!
In conclusion, I was left feeling somewhat disappointed.
⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @canelo_co for providing this advanced digital copy in return for an honest review via @netgalley . All opinions are my own.
‘Advertisement: A Novel Holiday Idea
Borrow-A-Bookshop invites you to live out your dreams of running your very own bookshop in a historic Devonshire harbour village... for a fortnight.
Spend your days talking about books with customers in your own charming bookshop and serving up delicious food in your cosy cafe nook. Get to know our wonderful volunteers (all locals), always ready to offer a helping hand.
After shutting up shop, climb the spiral staircase to your bedroom with picture window seat and settle down to admire the Atlantic views. When your holiday’s over, simply hand the keys to the next holidaymaker…’
I mean, how wonderful would this opportunity be?!! 🤩
I quickly got into the story of ‘new borrowers’ Harri and Annie but I soon became frustrated with their will they-won’t they romance and found myself skim-reading pages. If I’m completely honest, in parts, I found their story a little boring 😬 Not much really happened and their two weeks at the book shop felt more like two months!
In conclusion, I was left feeling somewhat disappointed.
⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @canelo_co for providing this advanced digital copy in return for an honest review via @netgalley . All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2025
A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop
by Kiley Dunbar
2.5 out of 5 stard
Thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC.
A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop is the fifth book in Kiley Dunbar’s Borrow a Bookshop series. I was intrigued by the blurb, which hinted at a cozy mystery mixed with romance. Naturally, I expected a stronger mystery element woven into the story, but unfortunately, the book didn’t quite meet that expectation. It made me wonder if I simply struggle to enjoy cozy romance books.
While this book can be read as a standalone, I sometimes found myself questioning certain aspects—especially the concept of the Borrow a Bookshop itself. Harri and Annie, once close friends in college, went their separate ways after graduation. Annie became a librarian in her Texas hometown, while Harri worked as a barista in Wales. They had feelings for each other back then but never acted on them, fearing it would ruin their friendship.
When they get the chance to spend two weeks in Clove Lore managing the Borrow a Bookshop, their old chemistry resurfaces. Both are also trying to escape their real-life struggles, making this a classic friends-to-lovers story in action.
Since I didn’t read the previous books, I struggled a bit with the bookshop’s concept. From what I gathered, part-time workers are given a chance to run the shop for a limited period, but the selection process remained unclear to me. Also, considering the bookshop is located in the southern part of England—far from the central area—it seemed like an oddly inconvenient setup.
I do find the idea of the Borrow a Bookshop unique and appealing, especially for book lovers. However, the effort required to work in such a remote bookshop felt somewhat unrealistic.
As for the story itself, the blurb mentions the mysterious death of Castle Lore’s owner, which led me to expect an engaging mystery subplot. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. The book primarily focuses on Harri and Annie rekindling their relationship after a decade, navigating their emotions, and dealing with personal challenges from their past.
In the end, I hoped for more than just a romance storyline, but I couldn’t find it here. Because of that, I found certain parts a bit dull. Sigh.
So, 2.5 stars from me—rounded up to 3 stars.
by Kiley Dunbar
2.5 out of 5 stard
Thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC.
A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop is the fifth book in Kiley Dunbar’s Borrow a Bookshop series. I was intrigued by the blurb, which hinted at a cozy mystery mixed with romance. Naturally, I expected a stronger mystery element woven into the story, but unfortunately, the book didn’t quite meet that expectation. It made me wonder if I simply struggle to enjoy cozy romance books.
While this book can be read as a standalone, I sometimes found myself questioning certain aspects—especially the concept of the Borrow a Bookshop itself. Harri and Annie, once close friends in college, went their separate ways after graduation. Annie became a librarian in her Texas hometown, while Harri worked as a barista in Wales. They had feelings for each other back then but never acted on them, fearing it would ruin their friendship.
When they get the chance to spend two weeks in Clove Lore managing the Borrow a Bookshop, their old chemistry resurfaces. Both are also trying to escape their real-life struggles, making this a classic friends-to-lovers story in action.
Since I didn’t read the previous books, I struggled a bit with the bookshop’s concept. From what I gathered, part-time workers are given a chance to run the shop for a limited period, but the selection process remained unclear to me. Also, considering the bookshop is located in the southern part of England—far from the central area—it seemed like an oddly inconvenient setup.
I do find the idea of the Borrow a Bookshop unique and appealing, especially for book lovers. However, the effort required to work in such a remote bookshop felt somewhat unrealistic.
As for the story itself, the blurb mentions the mysterious death of Castle Lore’s owner, which led me to expect an engaging mystery subplot. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. The book primarily focuses on Harri and Annie rekindling their relationship after a decade, navigating their emotions, and dealing with personal challenges from their past.
In the end, I hoped for more than just a romance storyline, but I couldn’t find it here. Because of that, I found certain parts a bit dull. Sigh.
So, 2.5 stars from me—rounded up to 3 stars.
January 23, 2025
“A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop” is a delightful read. I took a welcome trip back to magical Clove Lore with the new bookshop “Borrowers” and enjoyed meeting the nosey, romantic & quirky inhabitants of the village again. The new “Borrowers” Harri and Annie are best friends from University days, just friends that have had eight years and an Ocean separating them since graduation.
Eight years after graduation we find Harri still working as a Barista in what was meant to be his “stop gap” job. He loves it and has no intention of finding other work. He has won awards and regularly dreams up exciting coffee flavours and aspires to own his own place one day. Meanwhile, Annie who has moved back home to the States is a dedicated and successful School Librarian. Despite being close at University they haven’t seen each other during those years. That is until they reach the top of the waiting list to “Borrow a Bookshop”. Their respective jobs and love of books is the perfect combination to run the bookshop and cafe and they jump at the chance to holiday together, despite all the years apart.
Harri and Annie have always cherished their friendship but there are some secrets they feel they just can’t share as they want to protect what they have at all costs. Before they are even settled in, they have to endure the matchmaking activities of the locals whilst trying to avoid showing the truth of their own feelings. Despite secrets and confusing emotions the one thing they can be sure of is a calm, cosy, happy time together as friends surrounded by books, coffee, cakes. However, not long into their stay a confused and bedraggled old man with some kind of amnesia, a stranger to everyone, takes up residence in the cosy chair in the corner of the bookshop and a mystery begins.
I was thoroughly invested in the mystery and the tangled web that is weaved by the heart sore borrowers as their short time in Clove Lore plays out. I never regret loosing myself in a Borrow a Bookshop story. The characters are charming and it is always good to see the haply ever afters play out from previous stories. I am certain the book could be enjoyed as a stand alone but some of the magic would be lost. The bookshop has tales to tell and I am very glad to have been there from the start.
Eight years after graduation we find Harri still working as a Barista in what was meant to be his “stop gap” job. He loves it and has no intention of finding other work. He has won awards and regularly dreams up exciting coffee flavours and aspires to own his own place one day. Meanwhile, Annie who has moved back home to the States is a dedicated and successful School Librarian. Despite being close at University they haven’t seen each other during those years. That is until they reach the top of the waiting list to “Borrow a Bookshop”. Their respective jobs and love of books is the perfect combination to run the bookshop and cafe and they jump at the chance to holiday together, despite all the years apart.
Harri and Annie have always cherished their friendship but there are some secrets they feel they just can’t share as they want to protect what they have at all costs. Before they are even settled in, they have to endure the matchmaking activities of the locals whilst trying to avoid showing the truth of their own feelings. Despite secrets and confusing emotions the one thing they can be sure of is a calm, cosy, happy time together as friends surrounded by books, coffee, cakes. However, not long into their stay a confused and bedraggled old man with some kind of amnesia, a stranger to everyone, takes up residence in the cosy chair in the corner of the bookshop and a mystery begins.
I was thoroughly invested in the mystery and the tangled web that is weaved by the heart sore borrowers as their short time in Clove Lore plays out. I never regret loosing myself in a Borrow a Bookshop story. The characters are charming and it is always good to see the haply ever afters play out from previous stories. I am certain the book could be enjoyed as a stand alone but some of the magic would be lost. The bookshop has tales to tell and I am very glad to have been there from the start.
January 18, 2025
**A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop**
by Kiley Dunbar
A decade has passed since Harri and Annie parted ways after graduation, but now destiny has brought them back together in the picturesque village of Clove Lore, nestled in the heart of Devon. As old friends, they find themselves reunited in an unexpected adventure: managing a charming borrowed bookshop and café. For two avid bookworms, the opportunity to immerse themselves in stories while serving delicious coffee is a dream come true.
Despite their long-standing friendship, Harri and Annie have both been hesitant to confront the deeper feelings they hold for one another, feelings that have lingered beneath the surface for years. As they spend time together in the cozy bookshop, surrounded by the warmth of the community and the smell of freshly brewed coffee, they must navigate their complicated emotions and the unspoken bond that has only strengthened with time.
This delightful read, while part of a series, stands beautifully on its own, allowing new readers to dive into the narrative without prior knowledge of the previous instalments. I was thoroughly captivated by the book's heartfelt themes of friendship, love, loss and literature. The residents of Clove Lore, each with unique quirks and charms, add an enchanting layer to the story, creating a setting I would love to visit myself. Overall, this feel-good tale of friends-to-lovers is a touching reminder of the beauty of rekindling old friendships and finding love where you least expect it.
by Kiley Dunbar
A decade has passed since Harri and Annie parted ways after graduation, but now destiny has brought them back together in the picturesque village of Clove Lore, nestled in the heart of Devon. As old friends, they find themselves reunited in an unexpected adventure: managing a charming borrowed bookshop and café. For two avid bookworms, the opportunity to immerse themselves in stories while serving delicious coffee is a dream come true.
Despite their long-standing friendship, Harri and Annie have both been hesitant to confront the deeper feelings they hold for one another, feelings that have lingered beneath the surface for years. As they spend time together in the cozy bookshop, surrounded by the warmth of the community and the smell of freshly brewed coffee, they must navigate their complicated emotions and the unspoken bond that has only strengthened with time.
This delightful read, while part of a series, stands beautifully on its own, allowing new readers to dive into the narrative without prior knowledge of the previous instalments. I was thoroughly captivated by the book's heartfelt themes of friendship, love, loss and literature. The residents of Clove Lore, each with unique quirks and charms, add an enchanting layer to the story, creating a setting I would love to visit myself. Overall, this feel-good tale of friends-to-lovers is a touching reminder of the beauty of rekindling old friendships and finding love where you least expect it.
November 20, 2024
Friends-to-lovers is a favorite trope of mine. Because it's never about instalove. It's about shared memories, experiences and difficult times they've been through together. And that's what love is about, according to me.
As I've probably said in every review I wrote about the books in the series (I've read them all), Clove Lore is on my To-Visit list (or at least the village it has been inspired by). Both because the scenery is wonderful but mostly because of its people. And I love meeting them again and again.
The Borrow A Bookshop series is about romance but so much more.
In this instalment, you'll meet Harri and Annie, uni friends who managed to keep in touch for eight years while each being on a different side of the Atlantic Ocean.
They're both struggling in their lives and those two weeks in Clove Lore couldn't come at a better time.
They're sweet and kind (probably a bit too much, as they're constantly interrupted when something might happen at last between them ! Soooo annoying for the reader haha).
The writing is always perfect, the atmosphere warm, Valentine-y but not too much. So heartwarming, like the best armchair you'll ever sit in with a hot cocoa to watch snow fall in winter.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hera for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
As I've probably said in every review I wrote about the books in the series (I've read them all), Clove Lore is on my To-Visit list (or at least the village it has been inspired by). Both because the scenery is wonderful but mostly because of its people. And I love meeting them again and again.
The Borrow A Bookshop series is about romance but so much more.
In this instalment, you'll meet Harri and Annie, uni friends who managed to keep in touch for eight years while each being on a different side of the Atlantic Ocean.
They're both struggling in their lives and those two weeks in Clove Lore couldn't come at a better time.
They're sweet and kind (probably a bit too much, as they're constantly interrupted when something might happen at last between them ! Soooo annoying for the reader haha).
The writing is always perfect, the atmosphere warm, Valentine-y but not too much. So heartwarming, like the best armchair you'll ever sit in with a hot cocoa to watch snow fall in winter.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hera for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
I have enjoyed each of the books in this series, set in the lovely village of Clove Lore. The bookshop is the centre of the stories, an interesting idea for all readers. The romantic stories have been entertaining with endearing characters. However, this book didn't hit the mark for me, I did not find it engaging. I did not think the character of Annie was at all credible - a feisty leader at university she ran away from the conflict in her place of work rather than taking a stand. She and Harri had been close friends but romance had never been allowed to blossom, and I found the misunderstandings contrived rather than realistic, with unsurprising twists at the end of the book. I don't feel this book was anywhere near as good as the others in the series.
I have enjoyed each of the books in this series, set in the lovely village of Clove Lore. The bookshop is the centre of the stories, an interesting idea for all readers. The romantic stories have been entertaining with endearing characters. However, this book didn't hit the mark for me, I did not find it engaging. I did not think the character of Annie was at all credible - a feisty leader at university she ran away from the conflict in her place of work rather than taking a stand. She and Harri had been close friends but romance had never been allowed to blossom, and I found the misunderstandings contrived rather than realistic, with unsurprising twists at the end of the book. I don't feel this book was anywhere near as good as the others in the series.
February 16, 2025
A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop takes us to the charming, small town of Clove Lore in Devon. Annie is a librarian from Texas, and Harri is a barista from Wales. During college, they both added their names to the waiting list to run the Borrow a Bookshop together for two weeks. As luck would have it, their turn has finally come, and they reunite after years of staying in touch through phone tag. Harri has just broken up with his long-term girlfriend, and Annie has been placed on leave from her school. The townspeople are an entertaining cast of characters, and there’s even a mysterious person who shows up out of the blue. Annie and Harri finally get to live out their college dream of running the bookshop together. Will this vacation provide the time they need to heal before returning to their lives in the real world, or will it become a catalyst for something more?
Thank you to #NetGalley for the advanced copy!
Thank you to #NetGalley for the advanced copy!
December 29, 2024
Oh Kiley, why oh why does this have to be the end of a glorious series (at east I believe this is the end of the series). I have loved each and every book and I'm happy to say the series does end on a high.
We get to see bits from many of the previous borrowers, as well as all the regulars in Clove Lore.
And we get to know Harri and Annie, long term friends, that are in charge of the bookshop for the duration of this novel.
As you might expect they start to feel rather fond of the quirky nature of this town and its inhabitants, as well as playing a key role in a gorgeous sub plot featuring another new character.
I couldn't devour this fast enough, it was a pure joy to read. Another absolute triumph in this series in a setting that will live long in the memory.
Thank you to Hera and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
We get to see bits from many of the previous borrowers, as well as all the regulars in Clove Lore.
And we get to know Harri and Annie, long term friends, that are in charge of the bookshop for the duration of this novel.
As you might expect they start to feel rather fond of the quirky nature of this town and its inhabitants, as well as playing a key role in a gorgeous sub plot featuring another new character.
I couldn't devour this fast enough, it was a pure joy to read. Another absolute triumph in this series in a setting that will live long in the memory.
Thank you to Hera and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 2, 2025
4 stars - Women’s fiction romance
The fifth book set in the very close knit seaside village of clove lore. The premise of each story is that two people can borrow the bookshop for a two week holiday. This time we meet Harri and Luna who are old uni friends with the potential for more.
I really enjoy this series and the friendship and found aspect of each book. They are simple yet full of love, hope and happy ever afters.
I loved the friendship to lovers trope between Annie and Harri and rooted for them from the very first flashback chapter of their uni days. Their story was genuine and their characters easy to connect to.
Even though the stories can be read as standalones previous characters make small appearances throughout and I love seeing how they are getting on.
A perfect spring read!
Thank you to NetGaley and the publisher for the copy of the ebook.
The fifth book set in the very close knit seaside village of clove lore. The premise of each story is that two people can borrow the bookshop for a two week holiday. This time we meet Harri and Luna who are old uni friends with the potential for more.
I really enjoy this series and the friendship and found aspect of each book. They are simple yet full of love, hope and happy ever afters.
I loved the friendship to lovers trope between Annie and Harri and rooted for them from the very first flashback chapter of their uni days. Their story was genuine and their characters easy to connect to.
Even though the stories can be read as standalones previous characters make small appearances throughout and I love seeing how they are getting on.
A perfect spring read!
Thank you to NetGaley and the publisher for the copy of the ebook.
January 24, 2025
This was peaceful and soothing read that wasn’t filled with intense drama. It definitely gives you cozy read by the fireplace vibes.
I enjoyed how the story explored the power of books to create memories and bring people together, as I have experienced this in my own personal life. I mean who doesn't love the idea of a secret book club! The evolving dynamic between Harri and Annie was tender and slow-paced, reflecting the themes of patience and growth. Although the story moved at a gentle pace, it never felt slow, and the ending was perfectly satisfying.
While the book had its minor flaws, and took me longer to read as I wasn't wholly engaged all the time. However, it was still a delightful, heartwarming read that left me with a renewed sense of appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.
Thank you to Kiley and Netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest review ❤️
I enjoyed how the story explored the power of books to create memories and bring people together, as I have experienced this in my own personal life. I mean who doesn't love the idea of a secret book club! The evolving dynamic between Harri and Annie was tender and slow-paced, reflecting the themes of patience and growth. Although the story moved at a gentle pace, it never felt slow, and the ending was perfectly satisfying.
While the book had its minor flaws, and took me longer to read as I wasn't wholly engaged all the time. However, it was still a delightful, heartwarming read that left me with a renewed sense of appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.
Thank you to Kiley and Netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest review ❤️
November 11, 2024
Thank you to Kiley and the publisher for this early copy. I have just finished my read, and it was absolutely wonderful and such a topical book in today's political landscape. I LOVED being back in Clove Lore (I say this every time I read these books, but it's true!)
This time we meet Harri and Annie two uni friends who studied together in Aberystwyth and almost a decade after their graduation it is finally time for their holiday it is the middle of February but the town welcomed them like it was high summer. We also meet a new character, Mr William Sabine, and even in the town of Clove Lore, where everyone knows everything, this man is a mystery.
I loved the themes discussed in the book, and the way they were discussed was perfect. I hope to see Harri and Annie back in a future book set in the Borrow a Bookshop universe
This time we meet Harri and Annie two uni friends who studied together in Aberystwyth and almost a decade after their graduation it is finally time for their holiday it is the middle of February but the town welcomed them like it was high summer. We also meet a new character, Mr William Sabine, and even in the town of Clove Lore, where everyone knows everything, this man is a mystery.
I loved the themes discussed in the book, and the way they were discussed was perfect. I hope to see Harri and Annie back in a future book set in the Borrow a Bookshop universe
November 30, 2024
I loved this! It was great to be back at the borrow a book shop. It’s great how new characters are brought into familiar settings and we get to catch up with old friends while making new friends.
Harri and Annie were great characters and I liked getting their back story and watching their lives over a decade of friendship no matter the distance between them. Navigating their feelings for each other, both hiding their truth from the other, it just takes a few interfering Clove Lore residents to set them right.
Mrs C and Bovis nearly stole the show, but Harri steps up and shows Annie how he really feels, with the help from some of the residents.
I can’t wait to see who holidays at the bookshop next.
Harri and Annie were great characters and I liked getting their back story and watching their lives over a decade of friendship no matter the distance between them. Navigating their feelings for each other, both hiding their truth from the other, it just takes a few interfering Clove Lore residents to set them right.
Mrs C and Bovis nearly stole the show, but Harri steps up and shows Annie how he really feels, with the help from some of the residents.
I can’t wait to see who holidays at the bookshop next.
January 14, 2025
It's Book 5 of Borrow a Bookshop series, and I haven't read the other previous books, but I loved this one. The main idea of borrowing a bookshop for a fortnight in a lovely Clove Lore in Devon is masterfully crafted. And writing about the love stories around it is just wonderful. Annie and Harri are both are long term friends and secretly had romantic feelings about each one. Their love story evolved when they both were on borrowing a bookshop vacation. I loved both of them with all of the lovely residents of Clove Lore. Book events and the underlying theme of the importance of reading and freedom to read are masterfully played out. Uplifting, hopeful, heartwarming, and romantic. Highly recommended. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC.
February 17, 2025
I have read and enjoyed others in this series, but unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me. Harri & Annie, the new "borrowers" are good friends from university but haven't seen each other for a long time. They are both booklovers and both are distracted when they arrive. The villagers are mostly present in previous books, but there are so many names mentioned that I found it difficult to remember who they are and to keep track of them. The pace was also slow, with a lot happening in the last couple of chapters.
I wasn't really engaged with the book so it read slowly for me, the plot with the will-they won't they romance angle was too drawn out and the village life part was a little too contrived.
Thanks to Net galley for the ARC
I wasn't really engaged with the book so it read slowly for me, the plot with the will-they won't they romance angle was too drawn out and the village life part was a little too contrived.
Thanks to Net galley for the ARC
December 1, 2024
Many thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
There is nothing inherently wrong with this book: The setting is idyllic, cute friends to lovers trope, well written. However, it just didn’t work for me. I think I had a hard time believing in the chemistry of these “friends”. There were also some sub-plots thrown in that felt a bit random. I found my attention drifting quite often, leading me to think there were some issues with the pacing. I am curious about other books in the series and still might read one of those to see if I like it better. It’s a cute concept.
2.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
There is nothing inherently wrong with this book: The setting is idyllic, cute friends to lovers trope, well written. However, it just didn’t work for me. I think I had a hard time believing in the chemistry of these “friends”. There were also some sub-plots thrown in that felt a bit random. I found my attention drifting quite often, leading me to think there were some issues with the pacing. I am curious about other books in the series and still might read one of those to see if I like it better. It’s a cute concept.
December 5, 2024
This book was my first book by Kiley Dunbar and the Borrow a Bookshop series. I wish that I could experience operating a bookshop like Harri and Annie. Friends from University and fast-forward running a small town bookshop for two weeks later in life.
The change came at a crucial time in their lives when they needed to figure out who they were and acknowledge their true feelings for one another.
I will read all of the series because I enjoyed Kiley Dunbar's writing. I loved the concept, the characters, and the small town, but there were too many characters.
#ANewChapterattheBorrowaBookshop #NetGalley
The change came at a crucial time in their lives when they needed to figure out who they were and acknowledge their true feelings for one another.
I will read all of the series because I enjoyed Kiley Dunbar's writing. I loved the concept, the characters, and the small town, but there were too many characters.
#ANewChapterattheBorrowaBookshop #NetGalley
December 7, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
This was a cute, “we’ve been in love for years, but were too scared to admit it,” friends to lovers romance. Harri is the sweetest, cinnamon bun of a best friend a girl could ask for. Honestly, I 💯 want to run a bookshop with him! Him and Annie are adorable, but talk about your angsty, super slow burn tension! I thought they’d never get it together! I love the people of the town! I got such Gilmore Girls vibes from the town meeting, and it made me so happy. I NEED more of Nicholas and William’s story though!! Even if it was just a friendship, it made my heart happy. I honestly appreciated how this book put so much emphasis on friendship and community.
This was a cute, “we’ve been in love for years, but were too scared to admit it,” friends to lovers romance. Harri is the sweetest, cinnamon bun of a best friend a girl could ask for. Honestly, I 💯 want to run a bookshop with him! Him and Annie are adorable, but talk about your angsty, super slow burn tension! I thought they’d never get it together! I love the people of the town! I got such Gilmore Girls vibes from the town meeting, and it made me so happy. I NEED more of Nicholas and William’s story though!! Even if it was just a friendship, it made my heart happy. I honestly appreciated how this book put so much emphasis on friendship and community.
December 16, 2024
How joyful to find a new series. Harri had loved Annie all his adult life. She was the one for him. He fell for her hook, line and sinker but she just did dmt know. After graduation they went back to their old lives, she in US and he in Wales as a barista and they kept in touch through calls, emails and texts. They made a long standing agreement to have a holiday running a bookshop together. 9 long years later. The friends fall back into their old gentle friendship and slip into their own or ways. The inhabitants of Clove lane are amazing and it was just a joy. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2024
A New Chapter at the Borrow a Bookshop
By Kiley Dunbar
Perfect little cozy read that warms your heart! This story is a sweet little package of friends to lovers romance, bookish plots and quotes with just enough talk of coffee and cakes to top it all off.
The story follows best friends Annie from America and Harri from Wales who embark on a 2 week vacation staying and working in a bookshop in a small town in Devon.
I just loved the sweet, cozy nature of this one with all its British charm and talk of books. This idea of a bookish vacation manning a bookshop would be a dream come true!
By Kiley Dunbar
Perfect little cozy read that warms your heart! This story is a sweet little package of friends to lovers romance, bookish plots and quotes with just enough talk of coffee and cakes to top it all off.
The story follows best friends Annie from America and Harri from Wales who embark on a 2 week vacation staying and working in a bookshop in a small town in Devon.
I just loved the sweet, cozy nature of this one with all its British charm and talk of books. This idea of a bookish vacation manning a bookshop would be a dream come true!
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