The Violin Maker's Secret

by Evie Woods

The Brand New Book from the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Lost Bookshop!Hewn by a master and passed down through generations, one violin charts its own course through history…

Baggage claim agent Devlin, retired teacher Walter, and appraiser Gabrielle should have nothing in common, but when a single choice sets in motion a new chapter in the violin’s story, they finally feel a part of something – something that matters, and which makes them matter.

Because as their search for the violin’s origins unlocks a mystery stretching back decades, the instrument teaches them a melody they never expected.

Genres: Fiction, Music, Historical Fiction, Historical, Adult

416 pages, Paperback

Expected publication February 24, 2026

About the author

Evie Woods is the author of The Lost Bookshop, the #1 Wall Street Journal and Amazon Kindle and Sunday Times bestseller, which has now sold over half a million copies. She is also the author of The Story Collector, The Heirloom and The Mysterious Bakery On Rue De Paris under her real name, Evie Gaughan.

Living on the West Coast of Ireland, Evie escapes the inclement weather by writing her stories in a converted attic, where she dreams of underfloor heating. Her books tread the intriguing line between the everyday and the otherworldly, revealing the magic that exists in our ordinary lives.

Reviews

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read the author's previous works and when I found this on NetGalley, I quickly requested it. Best one yet! I've been stingy with 5-star ratings in 2025, so I surprised myself when I thought this was clearly a 4.5 stars and while waffling between and 4 and a 5, I found myself leaning toward the higher number. The love imbued in the wood and strings of the violin magically carried into the pages and storyline. The different characters clinging to a reason for holding on to the violin were heartfelt. The stories of its previous owners were delightful, poignant, and complex. So many great parts to this book. Reminded me why Woods is becoming a quick "auto-yes" for new releases.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

If you can overlook 9 instances of swearing, a weird insertion about a training bra that had no relevance to the plot, an OTT ‘find’ towards the end of the book, and deal with a jumbled timeline, this is a FANTASTIC story!

In fact, except for those few personal preference things that irritated me, this could have been a five-star book.

What’s it about?
A “Kafka-quoting baggage handler” at Heathrow airport comes into possession of a violin, and it turns his life upside down.

Things I loved:
💜the violin’s point of view! This was a great idea and added to the enjoyment of the story.
💜the author’s ability to seamlessly insert facts into the prose (not easy to do)
💜how much I learned about violins
💜the unique characters
💜the history of this particular violin
💜the idea that things can be custodians of a voice that helps them find their own

Things that I noted:
✔️Dendrochronologist, Dendocosmology, ikigai, luthier, why murmurations form, FBIs top ten unsolved cases: 1727 Davidoff-Morini Strad
✔️The quote about egos and masks
✔️The quote about nature’s reminders
✔️The quote about loving oneself enough to create a better future
✔️How consuming revenge and regret can be

I binge-read this book and now I can’t stop thinking about it. It’ll be in my top reads for the year!

[Mana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evie Woods spots the extraordinary in everyday mess, and The Violin Maker’s Secret does it well. A rare violin turns up in Heathrow’s Lost and Found clutter, drawing three strangers together: Devlin, Walter, and Gabrielle. They share nothing but nearness to this instrument, yet they end up chasing its history. It’s a quiet mystery built on character friction, not big twists.

Devlin, Walter, and Gabrielle come alive through their quirks. They’re not the slick winners from typical thrillers; they’re the sort you’d wait behind at security. Their growth feels real, won the hard way. As they track the violin’s past, they face their own stuck spots. The classical music crowd around them shows off art world pretension, which makes our main three even more relatable.

The story highlights the idea of "lost and found" as a metaphor for people, not just luggage. In a world that feels increasingly disconnected and digital, the focus on a physical, handcrafted object that requires human touch to sing is a poignant choice. It suggests that we are all carrying around untapped potential or forgotten histories. There is an intellectual satisfaction in watching the characters navigate the ethics of art appraisal and ownership, reminding us that the things we value most often have the most complicated shadows.

Woods uses a tone that is warm but never sugary. She avoids the flowery language that can sometimes bog down magical realism or mystery, opting instead for a style that feels efficient and observant. The pacing reflects the careful work of a luthier; it doesn't rush, which might frustrate those looking for a fast-paced hunt. However, this slower tempo allows the atmosphere of Heathrow and the dusty shops of violin dealers to feel authentic. It fits well within the genre of "up-lit," though it carries a bit more weight and mystery than your average feel-good novel.

I know this genre’s sentimental traps all too well, and this one stays hopeful without veering into fake. The book is unique because it treats music and history as a bridge between very different social classes. It is a solid reminder to look at the "clutter" in our own lives with a bit more curiosity. While the resolution of the mystery might feel a little convenient for some, the emotional payoff of seeing these three strangers find their footing is genuine. It is a thoughtful read that suggests your own second chance might be sitting in a pile of things you’ve ignored.

[Janneke Merkens · Rating 4 out of 5]

A easy to read book with two adorable main male characters and a somewhat complex female main character. The story starts with a violin that has been forgotten at the airport and ends up at the lost and found section. From there a sequence of events happen (not all are that believable, but hey, it’s a historical fiction so it’s okay).

One particular sub storyline that is woven in the story didn’t really suit my style and felt somewhat forced into it to add some suspense. This didn’t take the joy away from the overall story. The history of the violin, the people that held her throughout history and how it brings people together was heartwarming. The feeling that we as people can be lost as well and that with the right people you can find your place in the world again.

Overall a lovely story, which makes you realise that magic can be found in the most unexpected places and time. Will definitely check out her other work.

Thank you Netgalley and Harper Collins UK for this E-arc.
4 stars🌟

[Jason Lavoie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evie Woods writes magic.

Thank you NetGalley, and HarperCollins Canada for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of The Violin Maker’s Secret.

The violin has a secret and it’s up to three strangers - Devlin, Walter and Gabrielle – to solve that mystery.

The story, as with other Evie Woods books, is told in two separate timelines. There is the present time with the three characters and the past. The timeline in the past details the history of the violin from when it was created to it’s travels abroad with different keepers. It’s like an interlude to the present story and it does connect in the end.

It seems that we the reader know what is magical about the violin but it is up Devlin, Walter and Gabrielle to figure that out. You will feel a connection to these characters as the author has a special way to make you care about them in either their boldness or awkwardness. They’re relatable in their struggles and in their successes. It’s easy to root for all three of them.

This is my third book by Evie Woods and it will not be my last.

[Herbibliomaniac · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟

Thanks to Netgalley, Evie Woods, and Harper 360 for sending an Arc for me to review.

This is my 3rd book from this author (I also loved The Lost Bookshop and The Story Collector). And I loved this one all the same.

This whole book is about getting a stolen violin back to its rightful owner and how this particular violin touches each person it comes in contact with. On top of getting the point of view of the people trying to do that, but you also get the point of view of the violin themself. Getting to see the history of the violin on the way was a fun addition that I really enjoyed as well as the friendship formed between the main characters. All in all this was just a well written good story.

[Lisa Penninga · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my third Evie Woods’ read, and this one did not disappoint! From the magical realism elements with the violin to the connecting threaded characters woven to its life, to the lessons learned about violins, I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved the foreshadowing details describing Gabrielle as a fighter and how Devin turns to a former teacher for help when he needs a different kind of history lesson. Overall, this is a great read for anyone who wondered if there is a connection between an instrument and its owner, as well as the connection we have with one another. My favorite lessons in this book are that the person who makes you stumble over your speech and see stars in your eyes is worth fighting the bad days for, no matter how few days we get together. I adored the little snippets of love stories throughout the mystery to find the rightful owner of the violin.

[Erin Gilmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins 360 for gifting me an ARC of this book. This review is my own. I am so excited that I received the ARC for this book!! Evie Woods is an absolute must-read author for me, as I’ve loved all of her books. The Violin Maker’s Secret is another brilliant and moving novel with an incredible amount of heart, engaging characters, and a masterfully woven story told in multiple timelines. Gabrielle is a former violin prodigy with a painful past and a hopelessly narrow existence. When Walter and Devlin show up on her doorstep with a violin seeking her services as an appraiser, Gabrielle has no idea that her whole life is about to change. The violin changes everyone it touches throughout the centuries as it seeks the fulfillment of its own destiny. Excellently written, lovely, and wonderful.

[Miska Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story took me on a wild ride, and yes, in some ways it was like Mr. Toad’s. Theft, some laughs, and deep friendship.

I was worried I would not be able to sustain interest at first. I wasn’t keen on Devlin to begin with, and I could not find anything redeeming about his GF.

But he quickly grew on me as he stepped into community. As all three of the main characters stepped into community.

My heart ached for all of them- and for the violin itself. I wanted to curl into the story and not leave.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another unique magical realism story from Evie Woods! This one has a complex plot with a violin of rare beauty and influence at its core. And one that gets to tell its own story. We follow the violin's journey from its beginnings through many hands. Those who hold it, change as it seems to empower them. Of course, this causes many to pursue it. Although some good transpires for those who possess it, bad things happen, too. And sometimes it draws out the worst in human behaviour. (Does this remind us a bit of Tolkien’s One Ring?) Whether the violin’s troubled birth is the reason, well, we can only imagine. For it was made as a wedding gift for a man haunted with ‘a love that could never be.’

Some claim this violin has ‘a touch of the dark arts’ about it. Whatever the case, this is a fascinating story that my violinist grandfather would have loved. An instrument he always felt was a capable of many things—including exposing the darkest and deepest regions of the heart. The Violin Maker’s Secret shows this over and over quite vividly. This instrument can add dramatic texture and intense emotional depth to the story telling of a song. It can make a heart soar from sorrow to joy.

This novel left me spellbound by the incredibly beautiful passages and thoughts displayed. It took me on a journey through the fascinating stories of each violin owner or caretaker of the past. I could see how each person was affected by this unique instrument. And the present timeline was equally riveting. The violin ends up in Lost and Found at Heathrow Airport and in the hands of three strangers. Devlin is a baggage claim agent, Walter a retired teacher and Gabrielle an appraiser. They become the new guardians of this precious violin, as they try to find who created it and the rightful owners.

Gabrielle is a solid character at home in the Irish National Museum. She knows a great deal about ‘rare and antique musical instruments.’ Gabrielle gives us lots of history on violins and music. She tells Devlin how the violin was modelled on the human voice. There are lots of fascinating tid-bits woven throughout the dialogue and narrative. As much as she knows, she turns to her father in prison for help identifying the violin’s design style to lead her closer to its origins. Their relationship is not the best. I won’t reveal why he is in prison or how things change for father and daughter but I will say they get a second chance.

Walter has only been retired from teaching history a few months but his lack of routine has caused issues with his memory. He keeps forgetting things. Although he has always been on his own and done all activities alone, he did not used to mind. Women were not attracted to him but now at age sixty six he is feeling lonely. Without his job to give him purpose, he is at a standstill. Now, sitting in his apartment with a glass of brandy in one hand, the contents of an entire bottle of painkillers in the other, Gustav Mahler’s 5th Symphony plays as he ponders his life. Then the doorbell rings…

Devlin is at his door and then shaking his hand. Happy he still lives in the same place. Walter is stunned into reality. A student of his from the past comes to see him with an urgent request. We learn a fair bit about Devlin in this chapter. Particularly his younger life – and how much Walter’s history class meant to him. How he felt like himself under Walter’s teaching. He felt seen and believed in by this teacher. Then the penny drops for Devlin of what Walter was about to do when he interrupted him. A strange scene transpires. As Walter’s wits come back into focus and he begins remembering this young man who loved guitars and wrote great song lyrics, he realises he has a new mission. He wants to know all about this violin, Devlin bought from the Lost and Found at Heathrow Airport. And why Devlin believes the criminals who originally stole it will be after him now.

There are numerous brilliant scenes in this novel. I’ll only mention one special one when Devlin and Gabrielle are on a plane. She shoves one of her earbuds in his ear and he becomes lost in what he feels is the most beautiful music he has ever heard. He is ‘floating across a timeless cityscape’ and for nine minutes he becomes someone else. This helps him forget his fear of flying. This is also a great comparison to reading books. In both cases, we can get lost in the world the author or musician has created. It can offer a reprieve from the mundane but also equip us with tools to deal with the struggles in our lives. Literature and music can slacken the tight strings inside us, help us relax, inspire us and improve our health, too!

These first few chapters set up an exciting plot that follows. This story is about so many things: friendships, love, enemies, danger, passion, second chances and finding your own voice. There’s mystery, magic, mesmerising moments, heart thumping experiences and incredible surprises. It’s a fascinating read from start to finish. There are layers and layers to unpack on this exhilarating journey. The story is unique really in many ways. Evie Woods manages to take the ordinary and turn it into something extraordinary. I enjoyed this novel (loved the ending) that had my heart racing in all directions. Gabrielle, Devlin and Walter kept me captivated (and the violin, too!) as they are very special characters. I certainly recommend The Violin Maker’s Secret! 4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Thanks to HarperCollins and Netgalley for the ARC.

[Stefani Higdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into The Violin Maker’s Secret a little skeptical. I don’t usually love when inanimate objects are given voices, and I had seen that the violin itself plays a narrative role here — which made me hesitate. But this was my fourth Evie Woods novel, and her books have only gotten better for me, so I trusted the process… and I’m really glad I did.

The story follows several very different people whose lives become intertwined through a lost violin: Devlin, a baggage handler who accidentally comes into possession of it; Walter, his former history teacher who becomes an unexpected anchor and friend; and Gabrielle, an appraiser with a complicated past of her own. Watching these three circle around the violin — unsure what it is, where it belongs, or what to do with it — was both funny and tender, especially the growing friendship between Devlin and Mr. Pickering, which brought a lot of warmth and quiet humor to the story.

The novel weaves between present-day mystery and the violin’s long history, following it through different owners and moments in time. The magical realism elements — especially the violin’s origin story — are definitely strange, and at first I wasn’t sure how I felt about them. But somehow, instead of feeling gimmicky, they ended up giving the story a sense of emotional depth and melancholy that really worked for me. The book becomes less about the object itself and more about memory, loss, love, regret, and the invisible threads that connect people across time.

There’s also a gentle suspense running underneath it all, with questions about the violin’s true origin, who it belongs to, and who is searching for it. But what really carries the story is the emotional journey of the characters — their grief, their unresolved pasts, and their slow, tentative movement toward healing and connection.

By the end, I found myself unexpectedly moved. This is one of those books that’s hard to categorize: part mystery, part historical fiction, part magical realism, part quiet character study. It made me a little nostalgic, a little sad, a little hopeful — and yes, it even made me wish I hadn’t quit violin in middle school.

I wavered between 4 and 5 stars while reading, because I kept feeling like something was just slightly out of reach — I can’t even fully explain what. But the longer I sat with it, the more it stayed with me, and that’s what pushed it into 5-star territory. It’s gentle, strange, heartfelt, and deeply human.

At its heart, it’s about music, memory, chance encounters, and the quiet ways people save each other — sometimes without even realizing it.

Thank you to HarperCollins for reaching out to me directly and offering me an ARC for an honest review. Thank you also to NetGalley, and of course to Evie Woods.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

"'I don't have many possessions, but I like to keep things that have a story to them, you know.'"

What do a recently pensioned history teacher, a Heathrow baggage handler, and a reclusive young woman trying to run her father's violin restauration practice have in common? Yeah, not much. And yet again, in Evie Woods' new novel, they are forced together by a violin. As they attempt to learn more about the violin's history, they are forging a new future for themselves, each in their own way, as well as together. If only they can stay ahead of the gang that wants to get their hands on the violin as well...

I am not sure what I just read. And I am also not entirely sure how I feel about it. I have read and loved all of Evie Woods' previous books, yet this one took me a little while to get in to. I am not sure whether it is the fact that I love books and pastry and have no connection to musical instruments that did it, or whether I simply needed a bit more time than usual to connect with our cast of main characters, Walter, Devlin and Gabrielle.

But, when it did connect in the end, I found what I have come to love so much of all Evie Woods' books: a tale of hope, magic, friendship and people finding themselves and/or their purpose. All told in that beautiful prose that makes places and characters come to life. I am not sure that I needed everything coming together wrapped up in a neat little bow without any loose threads in the final few pages... but ca va, that is me. What I did absolutely adore and what makes this book a unique read is the POV of the violin. It was beautiful to have such a rich history (and well researched at that) woven into the story, without it taken away from what is happening in the here and now. A wonderful story for music lovers who enjoy a bit of mystery and romance.

Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing a Digital Advanced Reader Copy of the book. This review is entirely my own.

[Lis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evie Woods has written a surprisingly touching story about a three people who find a violin in a lost and found in a London airport. This violin was owned by a gang and they have accidentally have stolen it, and they will do anything in their power to get it back. This journey follow Devlin an airport baggage claims operator, his old teacher Walter, and Gabrielle a violin expert as they all try to figure out where this mysterious violin comes from and why this gang wants it back. They all feel drawn to this violin without understanding why.

This was such an interesting story and I appreciate it all the historical context around violins and the musical European history around them. I loved learning about luthiers and the history of violin making and how it actually changes; as I am not musically inclined, this was a great perspective and it makes me want to pick up a book on violin history to understand this topic better. It's been a long time since I read a book that brings in historical context that makes me even more interested in it and it's only the minor part of the story. the violin's POV was very cute and done wonderfully in a way that this could have been very corny but the author pulls it off

I thought the romance was ok, the chemistry was there but I don't think it's strongest part of the story. There is little to no spice in this. Honestly I liked the relationship bonds between all three, this really gives found family warm and fuzzes.

I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys listening to the violin, or likes rocking out to Bach, who doesn't like rocking out to Bach? While reading this I put on a violin playlist and I think it's the best way to read this book!

Thank you NetGalley and Harper 360 for a free copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Síle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Evie Woods and Harper Collins for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book felt like being gently pulled into a memory that isn’t yours, yet somehow feels deeply familiar.

The Violin Maker’s Secret is even more mysterious than the previous books in this loosely connected world, and it wraps that mystery in something incredibly warm and intimate. There’s a homeliness to this story that contrasts beautifully with its emotional depth. I didn’t just read this book, I lived in it. I walked the streets of London, wandered through Milan, and completely lost my heart in Cremona, a place that feels almost sacred within these pages.

The characters are quietly wonderful. They don’t demand attention, they earn it. Their grief, their longing, their love for music and memory all feel achingly real. And the way music is woven into the story? Stunning. Seeing one of my favourite musical pieces play such a vital role felt personal, almost intimate. The little nods to Hozier’s music were just the cherry on top, subtle but deeply appreciated.

There’s a strong Irish heartbeat running through this book, grounding it and giving it soul. It’s nostalgic without being indulgent, emotional without being manipulative, and mysterious without losing its warmth.

This story stayed with me long after the final page. Quiet, beautiful, and emotionally heavy. I loved it more than I can properly put into words.

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I discovered Evie Woods through The Lost Bookshop last year. I loved it so much, I immediately bought and read her other 2 books.

The Violin Maker’s Secret is a beautiful story of love, loss, finding yourself, and finding connections, all told through a tale of a mysterious violin.

Baggage handler Delvin spots a violin in the lost and found, and he buys it for his girlfriend’s birthday. She’s not happy with the gift, but he decides to keep it for himself. He soon learns of a priceless violin that’s been stolen, and he wonders if it’s his violin. He enlists the help of his retired teacher Walter as well as appraiser Gabrielle to find out where his violin came from.

Not only has the violin been lost and then found, but the characters seem to be lost before they find each other too.

Much like her other books, the story jumps back and forth in time, with different narrators. The storyline that takes place in the future focuses on Delvin, Walter, and Gabrielle, as they search for the violin’s history. The storyline that takes place in the place tells us about its origins and many owners over the years.

In true Evie Woods fashion, The Violin Maker’s Secret has a little magic, a little mystery, and a little romance. I couldn’t put it down!

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the arc.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main protagonist in this historical novel is a violin! Told from multiple POVs
and in multiple timelines this was an enthralling read. The historical threads follow the violins journey from its creation to the present day, including it travelling the world, being lost in an attic and being played by Italian violin virtuoso and composer Paganini.

Briefly, a baggage handler called Luke Devlin finds a violin in lost luggage at the airport and decides it’s a perfect present for his girlfriend, she thinks differently! But he knows there is something special about the violin and so does a woman determined to get her hands on it at any cost. With the help of his former history teacher Walter Pickering and Gabrielle Wilding a musical instruments appraiser Devlin looks to return to violin to its rightful owner.

Although it’s a little strange that the violin has its own narrative it really does work, and I was a bit sceptical at first. I loved how the relationships between Devlin, Walter and Gabrielle grew despite some confusion between Devlin and Gabrielle about their feelings. The book transcends genres with part historical, mystical, romance, crime and mystery all coming together to form an accomplished whole. An enjoyable and entertaining read. 4.5⭐️

[Nicki Markus · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Violin Maker's Secret is the first book I have read from Evie Woods, and my feelings about it are a little mixed. On the plus side, it was a quick, light read that moved at a good pace and was entertaining from start to finish. I had a lot of fun reading it. The premise was captivating, the multiple POVs worked well for the narration, and the dash of magical realism was enjoyable and different. As a music-lover and musician myself, I also, of course, loved all the musical references and discussions. Where it fell down a little for me was that other parts of the story felt rather far-fetched, coupled with a number of convenient coincidences. That made me feel a bit detached at times as I struggled with my disbelief. However, as I said, I still found it delightfully fun to read; I just had to let go of my skepticism at times. If you like a light read with a dash of historical fiction and dollop of magical realism that also includes some heart-warming human drama, this book is probably worth adding to your list. I am giving it 4 stars.

I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jenna (readinginjennaland) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devlin's steady, monotonous life working airport baggage claim is shattered when his thoughtful but mistaken birthday gift—a lost-and-found violin case—leads to a major blow-up with his girlfriend, Melissa, who was expecting an engagement ring. After their break-up, Devlin seeks refuge with his former history teacher, Walter Pickering, who is also struggling. The magnificent violin initiates an unexpected quest for the duo to determine its worth.
It turns out the instrument is far more than just valuable—it was stolen from Christie's, carries a vast history, and is infused with magic. A shadowy figure will stop at nothing to recover the artifact, forcing Devlin and Walter to rely on the help of a knowledgeable violin shop girl with her own mysterious past.
This was a highly addictive read! I loved learning about the violin's many histories and the found family bond that developed through the mystery. The combination of romance, intrigue, and the magical twists kept me completely hooked.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for this arc!

Having read Woods’ work before, I was so excited to dive into this story and it did not disappoint.

I really enjoyed the plot of this book but was most impressed with the amount of research that must have been done. Having no prior knowledge on classical music and violins, I really enjoyed reading about them. It’s a great skill to take a subject that someone might not have an interest them and keep them invested in it.

The characters felt extremely human and it was impossible not to fall in love with them. Their stories weren’t always light but I loved following along as they grew and began to heal. Their friendships were also very sweet and heartwarming.

I also loved the violin as a character and really enjoyed following it along with its multiple owners and adventures. It almost felt like a collection of short stories throughout the main plot. These small characters were also nice to read about and very interesting.

Overall, this was a great read and once I picked it up it was hard to put down.

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5! This is my second Evie Woods book and I am definitely here for the magical realism theme that seems to be prevalent in her writing. I did enjoy this book much more than other one I read because I felt the ending was tied up all loose ends.

This is a story about an extremely rare violin that gets left at Heathrow airport and forever changes the lives of three people. The story is told in different timelines and from different characters points of view which sounds like it could too much but it was made the story more interesting. There was only one character whose storyline felt rushed and parts of it didn't make sense in terms of the character's motives. Overall, I would say the pacing was fine except for maybe 3/4 of the way through it started to lag a little bit and I slowed down on finishing it.

Magical realism, mystery, friendships, suffering, redemption, and love are the common themes throughout the book!


Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins 360 for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Miruna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, Emotional, and Unforgettable

The Violin Maker’s Secret by Evie Woods completely captivated me. It’s a beautifully written story, rich in atmosphere and emotion, that blends history, music, and human connection in a truly memorable way. From the first pages, the novel feels immersive and almost lyrical, drawing you into its world effortlessly.

The characters are deeply moving, and their stories are woven together with sensitivity and care. I loved how themes of love, loss, resilience, and the power of art are explored — nothing feels rushed or forced, and the emotional moments really land. The historical elements are vivid and haunting, while the quieter, personal moments are just as impactful.

This is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve finished it. Thoughtful, heartfelt, and beautifully told, it’s a novel that reminds you why stories — and music — matter so much.

An easy 5-star read for me, and one I would highly recommend.

[Maree Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read two of Evie's books now, The Story Collector and The Lost Bookshop and loved them both.
When I saw that she had a new book coming out I knew I just had to get my hands on it.

Wow, this certainly didn't disappoint. I think it is Evie's best work yet.
What a wonderful story Evie has created here, with multiple timelines, each giving us a glimpse into the violin's history, how it came to life as it were in the first place, who owned it and how it came to be found by Devlin.

This is not just a story about the violin though, it is also about life and relationships. I loved watching the friendship build between first Devlin and Walter, his former teacher, and then Devlin, Walter and Gabrielle, as they worked together to unravel the mystery of the violin.

A very special thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evie Woods has written a hit again with The Violin Maker's Secret. The story centers around a magical violin that Devlin finds at his job's Lost and Found department. Devlin brings home the violin as a gift for his girlfriend but then suspects that it was stolen. when his home gets ransacked. Wanting to learn more about the violin, Devlin enlists the help of his history teacher and an appraiser to uncover the truth about the violin.
This tale is part history, part fantasy, part mystery, and part romance. The characters are endearing and you root for them to find happiness. This story will hook you from the first page and you will love every minute of it. it will touch every emotion within you.

Thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the advanced copy.

[TsarinaTyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished The Violin Maker's Secret and feel as if I should stand to offer an ovation yelling "Brava! Brava! Bravissima!!" for this tremendous symphony of a book! Evie Woods has, yet again, outdone herself!! What a fantastic experience reading this wonderful creation! The main characters are so dissimilar and still they become so wonderfully entwined in each other's lives. The star of the story, the beautiful violin, speaks throughout the story and draws you further into the lives of the main characters, Devlin, Walter, and Gabrielle, and the lives of all those she encountered throughout her journey since the early 1800s to modern day. This book has it all ... love, intrigue, music, danger, friendship, despair, strength, and perseverance. A truly wonderful read!

[Beth Hunsberger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book.

This book has so many layers that the pages will practically turn themselves. Devlin works at the airport as a baggage claim agent and purchases an old violin from the lost luggage collection. This violin has a deep and complex history which only comes to light as Devlin spends more time with the instrument. He partners with a retired teacher of his named Walter, and their paths cross with an appraiser named Gabrielle. They all become invested in uncovering the history of this violin while a gang of criminals is also hunting the violin for themselves. History of musical instruments, a little magical realism hearing from the violin itself, and the suspense of keeping the violin in safe hands lends to this engaging read.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Violin Maker’s Secret is a fun book that keeps you thinking. We meet Devlin, who works in baggage claim in London, who comes to obtain an old violin. With help from his former teacher, Walter and an instrument appraiser, Gabrielle, they try to discover the violin’s story.

I enjoyed that the violin was a character in this novel. I loved hearing its story as it traveled from place to place.

I also enjoyed reading more about Devlin, Walter and especially Gabrielle’s back stories throughout the novel.

Thank you to Harper Collins for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Maggie's Book Collection · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story, I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. The premise of the story was clever, original and enthralling. It unfolded as I read and intrigued me.

The characters are wonderful, they are a mismatched group, who blend together as the story develops. I quickly became engaged with the three main l, human, characters and was fascinated to see where the story would lead them. The violin was the other main character and her story was just as intriguing as the others were.

Evie Woods writes a really good story, and this one is no exception. I loved every minute of it and would highly recommend it.

#Netgalley

[Patricia Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evie Woods writes beautiful stories full of feelings with a touch of mystery and magic. And so it is with The Violin Maker’s Secret. The storyline is quite convoluted and I found it tricky to follow initially. There are quite a few characters.....including the violin! But these are mostly well written and easily fit into their place in the narrative. Although I was ready for the book to end I did feel the ending was a little rushed after the journey we'd all been on. However, no loose ends were left which is always a plus for me. A nice easy if slightly overlong book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

[BHK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved Evie Woods ever since The Lost Bookshop, so I grabbed this one the second I could! It has that same magical and cozy mystery vibe that sneaks up on your heart. The story unfolds soft and emotional, but with these gorgeous little crescendos of connection. The mystery of the violin isn’t loud or dramatc, but lingers. The kind that stays with you after you close the book. If you love stories about fate, found family, and small magical touches in ordinary moments, this one is an easy add to your TBR. Highly recommend!

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Violin Maker’s Secret is a heartfelt book that blends music, mystery, and human connection into a magical story. The plot is centered around a powerful violin that brings together unlikely strangers and explores themes of grief, hope, and love. The story is filled with warmth and wonder, which make ordinary moments feel touched with magic. This book was a captivating and uplifting read, which follows the same type of story setup as her other novels, jumping around from character to character in order to build a story and show connection.