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The Word Keepers
Old World Glamour - Class Differences - Dysfunctional Friend Group -Charming Bookshop
She was yet to discover the biggest best seller of the story of her past
Eleanor Carling, the elegant but reserved founder of New York’s largest publishing house, seems to have it all - wealth, power, and success. But when an unexpected manuscript lands in her hands, she is forced to face her past. With her colourful friends Jet and Georgina, she returns to Riverstone Hall, her childhood home shrouded in buried family secrets. As they unravel the layers of the past and uncover hidden truths, she confronts deep scars, resulting from ruthless ambition and social climbing from generations before. Eleanor learns that the quest for status can take dangerous turns, but every unfolding secret holds the power to change the present.
Set against the backdrop of an opulent 1940s post-war Newport and a glamorous modern-day French Riviera, “Word Keepers” explores class clashes and the lasting impacts of trauma, revealing that love may just require facing the truth.
"Sex and the City meets The Notebook"
Kate Gawi is a Swedish-Australian writer and a multi-genre author. Her passion for old-world interiors, history, and art inspires her to tell stories set in beautiful surroundings.
Eleanor Carling, the elegant but reserved founder of New York’s largest publishing house, seems to have it all - wealth, power, and success. But when an unexpected manuscript lands in her hands, she is forced to face her past. With her colourful friends Jet and Georgina, she returns to Riverstone Hall, her childhood home shrouded in buried family secrets. As they unravel the layers of the past and uncover hidden truths, she confronts deep scars, resulting from ruthless ambition and social climbing from generations before. Eleanor learns that the quest for status can take dangerous turns, but every unfolding secret holds the power to change the present.
Set against the backdrop of an opulent 1940s post-war Newport and a glamorous modern-day French Riviera, “Word Keepers” explores class clashes and the lasting impacts of trauma, revealing that love may just require facing the truth.
"Sex and the City meets The Notebook"
Kate Gawi is a Swedish-Australian writer and a multi-genre author. Her passion for old-world interiors, history, and art inspires her to tell stories set in beautiful surroundings.
243 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2025
39 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 11, 2025
I was lucky to get sent a copy of The Word Keepers by the author - and I loved it! It’s got mystery, buried pasts, class divides, sweeping settings, love, and so much heart.
I really loved the layering of the dual timeline element in this novel – delving into how ambition echoes through the generations and ripples from the past to the present – because ambition always comes with a price. I also really loved the companionship between Eleanor and her friends, Jet and Georgina – their relationship is really charming, and the dialogue is sharp and witty (especially from Jet - Jet was possibly my favourite)
There are twists and turns throughout that’ll keep you reading - but most of all, this story has heart. The ending was beautiful too, but I shan’t spoil it for you…! A really lovely read for fans of historical fiction.
I really loved the layering of the dual timeline element in this novel – delving into how ambition echoes through the generations and ripples from the past to the present – because ambition always comes with a price. I also really loved the companionship between Eleanor and her friends, Jet and Georgina – their relationship is really charming, and the dialogue is sharp and witty (especially from Jet - Jet was possibly my favourite)
There are twists and turns throughout that’ll keep you reading - but most of all, this story has heart. The ending was beautiful too, but I shan’t spoil it for you…! A really lovely read for fans of historical fiction.
November 10, 2025
Eleanor is doing pretty well. She has good friends, and a very good job. But one day a manuscript arrives at her house and everything changes. With the support of her pals, she heads back to her childhood home, reads the manuscript and uncovers all sorts of secrets and mystery. It's time to confront some truths!
This was wonderful. It's written so beautifully! This book genuinely needs more attention and then a movie deal. You immediately get pulled into this vividly described world and meet its characters. Eleanor and her friends, Jet and Georgina, are developed so well that at times, I was happy to just sit and read their conversations. Even when everything was ramping up and we were learning more, I was happy to just be around them.
I do love how we got to go back in time with the manuscript though. This, again, was so movie-like. I could imagine Eleanor sitting down to read it, and the camera slowly fading out into the flashbacks. Perhaps a voice reading out the first few sentences until someone in the flashbacks starts talking. One part of what we learned made me gasp! I read it over twice. That was unexpected and brilliant.
The author writes with such classic beauty too. The descriptions of the setting but also the feelings. The comments about the sound of silence are my favourite. So perfectly done.
Anyway, I recommend this to people who love family dramas / mystery / a dip into different time eras and cultures. I also recommend this to people who enjoy the words of Daphne du Maurier as the author deffo meets this vibe and style.
This was wonderful. It's written so beautifully! This book genuinely needs more attention and then a movie deal. You immediately get pulled into this vividly described world and meet its characters. Eleanor and her friends, Jet and Georgina, are developed so well that at times, I was happy to just sit and read their conversations. Even when everything was ramping up and we were learning more, I was happy to just be around them.
I do love how we got to go back in time with the manuscript though. This, again, was so movie-like. I could imagine Eleanor sitting down to read it, and the camera slowly fading out into the flashbacks. Perhaps a voice reading out the first few sentences until someone in the flashbacks starts talking. One part of what we learned made me gasp! I read it over twice. That was unexpected and brilliant.
The author writes with such classic beauty too. The descriptions of the setting but also the feelings. The comments about the sound of silence are my favourite. So perfectly done.
Anyway, I recommend this to people who love family dramas / mystery / a dip into different time eras and cultures. I also recommend this to people who enjoy the words of Daphne du Maurier as the author deffo meets this vibe and style.
December 23, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure of receiving a copy of The Word Keepers from the author Kate Gawi and I really went into it blind.
We follow Eleanor Carling, an elegant, wealthy, successful business owner who's missing one thing - the love of a partner. Her story is told in two timelines, the first being when she was just a teenager and first fell in love with Marcus and the second timeline as an adult where we learn how and why her life played out the way that it did.
It's a story about the desire for status and power. About the unforeseen consequences our choices can have on not only ourselves but those around us. And maybe most importantly, that we can have all the material things in life but if we don't have love we may never feel truly fulfilled.
This was a sweet read and I especially loved the supporting characters and their relationships with Eleanor. There is no cliffhanger ending, zero spice but you will have the sweetest ending that may not be the one you were expecting!
We follow Eleanor Carling, an elegant, wealthy, successful business owner who's missing one thing - the love of a partner. Her story is told in two timelines, the first being when she was just a teenager and first fell in love with Marcus and the second timeline as an adult where we learn how and why her life played out the way that it did.
It's a story about the desire for status and power. About the unforeseen consequences our choices can have on not only ourselves but those around us. And maybe most importantly, that we can have all the material things in life but if we don't have love we may never feel truly fulfilled.
This was a sweet read and I especially loved the supporting characters and their relationships with Eleanor. There is no cliffhanger ending, zero spice but you will have the sweetest ending that may not be the one you were expecting!
December 27, 2025
The Word Keepers by author Kate Gawi opens when publisher Eleanor Carling receives a manuscript in the mail from her long-dead father and, together with best friends Georgina and Jet, sets off on a journey of self-discovery spanning time and continents. The pacing is luxuriously slow, allowing for plenty of scene building and character development, but don’t be fooled. This is no tome. This is a book to curl up with and escape everyday life. The plotline unfolds in a mix of present-day scenes and flashbacks, with just enough mystery to keep readers turning pages, and as the story progresses, themes of class, privilege, and individuality emerge. There is an ageless, classic quality to Gawi’s writing. At the risk of offending literary scholars, I would say this novel would appeal equally well to fans of Charlotte Brontë, Lucy Maud Montgomery, and Patricia Highsmith, and that is no mean feat.
June 4, 2025
Kate Gawi’s new book ‘The Word Keepers’ had me hooked from the beginning. As the story weaves from the Old world glamour of Newport to the modern day New York, her characters shine through charming and likeable. Although my favourite would be Jet with his sassy and outspoken one liners, Kate has written so well. Her intriguing story was entertaining and surprised me with a twist, I didn’t see coming. A great read, Kate!
January 12, 2026
An enchanting story within a story!
Eleanor receives a copy of a manuscript from her late father, from whom she was estranged before his death. She returns to her childhood home, accompanied by her ‘friend family’, to read his testimony and confront the Past.
The author skillfully weaves together the stories of Eleanor’s Present and both her and her father’s Past.
Very enjoyable, highly recommended.
Eleanor receives a copy of a manuscript from her late father, from whom she was estranged before his death. She returns to her childhood home, accompanied by her ‘friend family’, to read his testimony and confront the Past.
The author skillfully weaves together the stories of Eleanor’s Present and both her and her father’s Past.
Very enjoyable, highly recommended.
September 2, 2025
Oh, my little bookish heart!! I did not want this book to end but yet at the sane time I wanted to devour it.From the buttery soft cover and pages and the elegant cover illustration, to the beautifully written story and the memorable characters, this is an everything book! This book contains so much love, loss, grief ,friendship found family, ambition and redemption.The story mesmerises readers from the start and continues its magic until you turn the last page.
October 30, 2025
I loved reading this. The writing is beautiful and heartfelt!
There is mystery, class divisions, first loves and split time frames.
We see the MFC Elenor jump back and forth between current time and her past. She also revisits her father’s past through his manuscript.
You see pain, betray, grief and longing within these pages.
She has some beautiful friendships that help her through the difficulties of revisiting her past and betrayal from her father.
This is very heartfelt and full of emotion. It’s a beautiful read that I found easy and quick to get through. Highly recommend if you like a glamorous world with different class love.
There is mystery, class divisions, first loves and split time frames.
We see the MFC Elenor jump back and forth between current time and her past. She also revisits her father’s past through his manuscript.
You see pain, betray, grief and longing within these pages.
She has some beautiful friendships that help her through the difficulties of revisiting her past and betrayal from her father.
This is very heartfelt and full of emotion. It’s a beautiful read that I found easy and quick to get through. Highly recommend if you like a glamorous world with different class love.
October 16, 2025
From the moment I opened The Word Keepers, I was swept into a story that felt both intimate and expansive—a heartwarming tale of friendship, resilience, and the quiet power of words. Kate Gawi’s writing is emotionally resonant and layered, with a cast of characters that linger long after the final page.
I was immediately drawn to the trio at the heart of the story: Eleanor, Georgina, and Jet. Their friendship felt refreshingly authentic—messy, loyal, and deeply moving. When we reach the part in the story where Eleanor has made her choice and is finally feeling all the feels around her, Jet’s slip-up with Jacques had me crying, but it was a testament to how real these characters felt. Jacques himself surprised me; I initially thought he was too good to be true, but his sincerity won me over, and his arc added a tender depth to the narrative and I especially loved how he spoke of and treated his family.
The storyline revolving around Marcus was devastating—his accident hit hard—but I had a hunch his story wasn’t over but the truth was even darker than I imagined! Gawi masterfully balances emotional tension with hope, never letting the reader sink too deep without offering a lifeline and I appreciated that.
As for Mr. Michael Carling… oooof! I loathe characters like him. His pursuit of status and power at the expense of family was infuriating, and yet it added a necessary contrast to the warmth and integrity of the other characters.
What truly elevated this novel for me was the “book within a book” structure. It added a nice little literary charm that made the reading experience feel immersive and thoughtful. The supporting cast of minor characters were all delightful, easily likeable and added another layer of depth to the narrative.
The ending felt earned and satisfying, tying together the emotional threads without resorting to clichés. I closed the book feeling full-hearted and grateful.
⭐ Five stars. A quietly powerful story that celebrates friendship, forgiveness, and the written word.
I was immediately drawn to the trio at the heart of the story: Eleanor, Georgina, and Jet. Their friendship felt refreshingly authentic—messy, loyal, and deeply moving. When we reach the part in the story where Eleanor has made her choice and is finally feeling all the feels around her, Jet’s slip-up with Jacques had me crying, but it was a testament to how real these characters felt. Jacques himself surprised me; I initially thought he was too good to be true, but his sincerity won me over, and his arc added a tender depth to the narrative and I especially loved how he spoke of and treated his family.
The storyline revolving around Marcus was devastating—his accident hit hard—but I had a hunch his story wasn’t over but the truth was even darker than I imagined! Gawi masterfully balances emotional tension with hope, never letting the reader sink too deep without offering a lifeline and I appreciated that.
As for Mr. Michael Carling… oooof! I loathe characters like him. His pursuit of status and power at the expense of family was infuriating, and yet it added a necessary contrast to the warmth and integrity of the other characters.
What truly elevated this novel for me was the “book within a book” structure. It added a nice little literary charm that made the reading experience feel immersive and thoughtful. The supporting cast of minor characters were all delightful, easily likeable and added another layer of depth to the narrative.
The ending felt earned and satisfying, tying together the emotional threads without resorting to clichés. I closed the book feeling full-hearted and grateful.
⭐ Five stars. A quietly powerful story that celebrates friendship, forgiveness, and the written word.
July 29, 2025
was genuinely thrilled when this ARC landed in my mailbox. Aside from the captivating cover, ‘The Word Keepers’ is a beautiful read that weaves together themes of class, family secrets, hidden pasts, love, loss, friendship, and self-discovery. The writing is elegant and immersive, with scenes that are gracefully set and written across differing timelines.
While there’s a touch of wit and lightness, the story also carries a deeper emotional weight through Eleanor’s journey. We see her move through grief and trauma, gradually reaching a place of peace as long-buried truths come to light. The turning point comes when she finds a manuscript written by her late father. This discovery brings her back to her childhood home, forcing her to face memories she had kept tightly shut away.
One of my favourite parts of the novel was the genuine friendship and loyalty shown by her close friends, Jet and Georgina. They stand by her side and help carry her through waves of pain, grief, and loss, guiding her towards acceptance and, ultimately, happiness.
I was completely absorbed in the story. The characters were written with such warmth and depth that I felt truly connected to each of them.
Although the story is told in third person, and there were moments where I found myself wishing it were in first, it in no way detracts from the beauty and elegance of the writing.
If you're after a heartfelt, elegant read that’s full of emotion, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
While there’s a touch of wit and lightness, the story also carries a deeper emotional weight through Eleanor’s journey. We see her move through grief and trauma, gradually reaching a place of peace as long-buried truths come to light. The turning point comes when she finds a manuscript written by her late father. This discovery brings her back to her childhood home, forcing her to face memories she had kept tightly shut away.
One of my favourite parts of the novel was the genuine friendship and loyalty shown by her close friends, Jet and Georgina. They stand by her side and help carry her through waves of pain, grief, and loss, guiding her towards acceptance and, ultimately, happiness.
I was completely absorbed in the story. The characters were written with such warmth and depth that I felt truly connected to each of them.
Although the story is told in third person, and there were moments where I found myself wishing it were in first, it in no way detracts from the beauty and elegance of the writing.
If you're after a heartfelt, elegant read that’s full of emotion, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
September 28, 2025
“The Word Keepers – a wonderful journey of escapism and great storytelling. A must-read for anyone who loves to disappear into a world of fiction and adventure. Well done, Kate – I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Eleanor Carling!”
July 25, 2025
Review of The Word Keepers
The Word Keepers is a captivating novel that skillfully combines entertainment with a deeper, socially reflective theme. The story explores the psychological and social challenges people face when forced to adapt to new environments and circumstances. Through this lens, it also reveals how reluctance or inability to change can reinforce the existing status quo and thereby uphold class divisions.
Author Kate masterfully addresses these issues without losing the momentum of the narrative. Her prose is rich in color, detail, and nuance, lending the story a vivid and immersive quality. At the same time, the novel raises important existential and societal questions, making it more than just entertaining—it becomes thought-provoking.
The Word Keepers is a well-crafted and engaging novel that deserves a wide readership. Highly recommended.
The Word Keepers is a captivating novel that skillfully combines entertainment with a deeper, socially reflective theme. The story explores the psychological and social challenges people face when forced to adapt to new environments and circumstances. Through this lens, it also reveals how reluctance or inability to change can reinforce the existing status quo and thereby uphold class divisions.
Author Kate masterfully addresses these issues without losing the momentum of the narrative. Her prose is rich in color, detail, and nuance, lending the story a vivid and immersive quality. At the same time, the novel raises important existential and societal questions, making it more than just entertaining—it becomes thought-provoking.
The Word Keepers is a well-crafted and engaging novel that deserves a wide readership. Highly recommended.
August 19, 2025
'The Word Keepers' is a dreamy mix of glamour, secrets and vintage charm. Eleanor's story feels so cinematic it needs to be made into a movie - think 'The Notebook' but with Riviera sparkle🎬✨
January 7, 2026
When the elegant Eleanor Carling returns to the English home of her childhood after an absence of twenty years, she opens a door to her past at Riverstone Hall which she’d rather not.
The founder of Carling Press, which within the relatively-short space of ten years has outperformed the top five publishing houses in New York, Eleanor resides on the fashionable East Side, clad in classic style and fuelled by takeout food and vintage wine. Tidy and organised, she lives the most private of lives, in control of her own destiny and only allowing friends Jet and Georgina into the inner sanctum.
The interested onlooker might well detect a romance-shaped hole in this otherwise-perfect lifestyle, but Eleanor appears content—until the day a manuscript lands on her doormat which, upon examination, is found to be written by her long-dead father, Michael, who raised Eleanor alone from the age of two, following the death of her mother. Rather than a close relationship, however, father and daughter were estranged by undisclosed events, Eleanor refusing to have anything to do with Michael, sending his letters back unopened and not even attending his funeral—despite being his sole beneficiary.
Now, however, her father has reached out from beyond the grave, necessitating a return to England and Riverstone Hall in search of answers. Requesting that Jet and Georgina accompany her, Eleanor must disclose to them the events which caused her estrangement from her father, including her connections to the bookshop named Word Keepers—and to Marcus.
It's a well-written story, switching from the present day of Eleanor, Georgina and Jet to Eleanor’s past and even before that, with Michael Carling’s own past narrated by the manuscript, explaining why he turned into the type of man, husband and father that he did. The location changes too, from New York through the English countryside to the Côte d’Azur, while the themes encompass lost love, class differences and friendship. There’s a realistic feel of psychology in the way that Eleanor’s facing of her past appears to open up her present, filling in the gaps, as it were, but not with facile ease. Recommended.
The founder of Carling Press, which within the relatively-short space of ten years has outperformed the top five publishing houses in New York, Eleanor resides on the fashionable East Side, clad in classic style and fuelled by takeout food and vintage wine. Tidy and organised, she lives the most private of lives, in control of her own destiny and only allowing friends Jet and Georgina into the inner sanctum.
The interested onlooker might well detect a romance-shaped hole in this otherwise-perfect lifestyle, but Eleanor appears content—until the day a manuscript lands on her doormat which, upon examination, is found to be written by her long-dead father, Michael, who raised Eleanor alone from the age of two, following the death of her mother. Rather than a close relationship, however, father and daughter were estranged by undisclosed events, Eleanor refusing to have anything to do with Michael, sending his letters back unopened and not even attending his funeral—despite being his sole beneficiary.
Now, however, her father has reached out from beyond the grave, necessitating a return to England and Riverstone Hall in search of answers. Requesting that Jet and Georgina accompany her, Eleanor must disclose to them the events which caused her estrangement from her father, including her connections to the bookshop named Word Keepers—and to Marcus.
It's a well-written story, switching from the present day of Eleanor, Georgina and Jet to Eleanor’s past and even before that, with Michael Carling’s own past narrated by the manuscript, explaining why he turned into the type of man, husband and father that he did. The location changes too, from New York through the English countryside to the Côte d’Azur, while the themes encompass lost love, class differences and friendship. There’s a realistic feel of psychology in the way that Eleanor’s facing of her past appears to open up her present, filling in the gaps, as it were, but not with facile ease. Recommended.
June 22, 2025
I just finished The Word Keepers and I’m honestly still sitting in the feeling of it. I absolutely loved it, I have no words. This book is something truly special. From the very first page, I was completely drawn in. The writing is very beautiful and clearly written. It’s the kind of story that makes you want to keep reading late into the night, and I ended up flying through most of it in one sitting because I simply couldn’t stop. I love books like this!
I loved how beautifully the story transported me across time and different countries. One minute I was in the buzz of the Upper East Side, the next I was swept into the charm of 1940s Newport, or in the romantic streets of Paris and London. The characters are unforgettable. The friendship between Eleanor, Georgina, and Jet was one of my favourite parts. Their bond was so authentic and joyful, it made me wish I had a friendship circle like theirs!!
I think what moved me the most was the quiet wisdom at the heart of the book. It reminded me that life doesn’t always unfold how we expect it to and that while some chapters can be painful and outside our control, there can still be beauty, healing, and even purpose in these detours. I had a little tear after one big moment in the book, and I loved the ending. I think it really brought this message home in the best possible way.
This book left me feeling really inspired and just grateful. I know this story will stay with me for a long time and I’m so glad this book found its way into my hands, highly recommend. I think the author did a wonderful job and books like this are difficult to find these days. Highly recommend :)
I loved how beautifully the story transported me across time and different countries. One minute I was in the buzz of the Upper East Side, the next I was swept into the charm of 1940s Newport, or in the romantic streets of Paris and London. The characters are unforgettable. The friendship between Eleanor, Georgina, and Jet was one of my favourite parts. Their bond was so authentic and joyful, it made me wish I had a friendship circle like theirs!!
I think what moved me the most was the quiet wisdom at the heart of the book. It reminded me that life doesn’t always unfold how we expect it to and that while some chapters can be painful and outside our control, there can still be beauty, healing, and even purpose in these detours. I had a little tear after one big moment in the book, and I loved the ending. I think it really brought this message home in the best possible way.
This book left me feeling really inspired and just grateful. I know this story will stay with me for a long time and I’m so glad this book found its way into my hands, highly recommend. I think the author did a wonderful job and books like this are difficult to find these days. Highly recommend :)
January 8, 2026
"There are as many stories as there are souls."
What a true DELIGHT this was! Kate Gawi is a genius at blending the heartfelt with the cozy. We have a loveable cast (I espeically loved the trio energy of Eleanor and her friends -- referred to as "The Minellis"), swoony spice-free romance, and languid descriptions. Gawi's style is quite cinematic; I could picture every location and outfit... Every blush, every lingering glance. Certain sentences felt like the author was using a paintbrush rather than a pen; she has such a way of pulling out the beauty in simple ideas. Take this, for example: "Any talk of exclusivity was rendered redundant from the start. It was just the two of them." SWOON.
The Word Keepers would make for a sweeping historical/dual timeline film. In fact, it reminded me a lot of The Last Letter From Your Lover. I highly recommend this read at this time of year, especially. There are holiday scenes (think cozy pubs, winter in a charming European village, Christmas markets...), but the romance makes it perfect for Valentines Day.
This is a read that will fill your cup and keep you turning pages. Not only will you want to know the mystery behind an unexpected manuscript, but you'll be intrigued by Eleanor's backstory and plain enchanted by her friends! Whenever I sat down to read, it felt like I was chatting with a group of old pals.
Congrats, Kate Gawi!
What a true DELIGHT this was! Kate Gawi is a genius at blending the heartfelt with the cozy. We have a loveable cast (I espeically loved the trio energy of Eleanor and her friends -- referred to as "The Minellis"), swoony spice-free romance, and languid descriptions. Gawi's style is quite cinematic; I could picture every location and outfit... Every blush, every lingering glance. Certain sentences felt like the author was using a paintbrush rather than a pen; she has such a way of pulling out the beauty in simple ideas. Take this, for example: "Any talk of exclusivity was rendered redundant from the start. It was just the two of them." SWOON.
The Word Keepers would make for a sweeping historical/dual timeline film. In fact, it reminded me a lot of The Last Letter From Your Lover. I highly recommend this read at this time of year, especially. There are holiday scenes (think cozy pubs, winter in a charming European village, Christmas markets...), but the romance makes it perfect for Valentines Day.
This is a read that will fill your cup and keep you turning pages. Not only will you want to know the mystery behind an unexpected manuscript, but you'll be intrigued by Eleanor's backstory and plain enchanted by her friends! Whenever I sat down to read, it felt like I was chatting with a group of old pals.
Congrats, Kate Gawi!
June 23, 2025
The Word Keepers by Kate Gawi is a beautifully written, classy read.
It follows the story of Eleanor Carling, who is elegant and highly successful but somewhat reserved. She has tried to bury some things in her past, but when a manuscript turns up at her home, she realises that she must face the past and find the truth.
It has multiple timelines, which Kate effortlessly weaves between, creating sumptuous backdrops of New York, Newport, an old Manor house in the English countryside, and The Riviera. Kate's insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the book's themes of love, loss, grief, friendship, class divide and social climbing is a testament to her literary skill.
I found myself utterly immersed and invested in the characters, particularly Eleanor's fabulous friends who stand by each other no matter what happens.
While the book is full of glamour, wealth, beautiful scenery, and fashion, it is in no way shallow. Yes, it is a glorious escape from the mundane, but it deals with serious topics, makes you think, cry, despair, cheer and may break your heart. The book's ability to evoke such a wide range of emotions will keep you gripped right to the end.
If you want a classy read with depth and twists this is your book.
It follows the story of Eleanor Carling, who is elegant and highly successful but somewhat reserved. She has tried to bury some things in her past, but when a manuscript turns up at her home, she realises that she must face the past and find the truth.
It has multiple timelines, which Kate effortlessly weaves between, creating sumptuous backdrops of New York, Newport, an old Manor house in the English countryside, and The Riviera. Kate's insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the book's themes of love, loss, grief, friendship, class divide and social climbing is a testament to her literary skill.
I found myself utterly immersed and invested in the characters, particularly Eleanor's fabulous friends who stand by each other no matter what happens.
While the book is full of glamour, wealth, beautiful scenery, and fashion, it is in no way shallow. Yes, it is a glorious escape from the mundane, but it deals with serious topics, makes you think, cry, despair, cheer and may break your heart. The book's ability to evoke such a wide range of emotions will keep you gripped right to the end.
If you want a classy read with depth and twists this is your book.
June 9, 2025
Did I just read a book with no supernatural and no spice? Yes, yes I did. Did I love it? Absolutely! 💯
The Word Keepers by Kate Gawi is so beautifully and elegantly written. It takes me back to my D. E. Stevenson/Miss Read phase with its idyllic settings and buttery prose. But although it’s a lovely book, the emotions hit hard. Kate isn’t afraid to tackle themes of class strife, family and personal trauma, and lost love, and she does so through three different timelines. Don’t worry, though, if you’re someone who gets easily confused. I am too and I wasn’t lost at all. The storyline is a fairly straightforward one that Kate lets unfold naturally. You’ll watch in awe (swinging from sadness to joy) as the pieces all fall into place.
I tore through this story, especially the last third, dying to see how it would end. If you enjoy books about relationships (friends, family, lovers), personal awakenings, and social class, you’ll love The Word Keepers. And oh my goodness, how could I forget the food? So much delectable food! 😋
The Word Keepers by Kate Gawi is so beautifully and elegantly written. It takes me back to my D. E. Stevenson/Miss Read phase with its idyllic settings and buttery prose. But although it’s a lovely book, the emotions hit hard. Kate isn’t afraid to tackle themes of class strife, family and personal trauma, and lost love, and she does so through three different timelines. Don’t worry, though, if you’re someone who gets easily confused. I am too and I wasn’t lost at all. The storyline is a fairly straightforward one that Kate lets unfold naturally. You’ll watch in awe (swinging from sadness to joy) as the pieces all fall into place.
I tore through this story, especially the last third, dying to see how it would end. If you enjoy books about relationships (friends, family, lovers), personal awakenings, and social class, you’ll love The Word Keepers. And oh my goodness, how could I forget the food? So much delectable food! 😋
May 21, 2025
I was so lucky to get a copy of this book before release. It was delivered and read in the same day. I wanted to read just a few pages to get a feel for the book but became obsessed. Usually I can have the plot figured out but the twists and turns in the book gave jaw dropping moments. It’s such a journey the author creates, keeping you wanting more and more and delivering! I found myself hating the way the ending was going and then boom, she gives the ending that I didn’t even know I wanted. It was a such delightful read, I’m so sad I’ve finished it so quick. I can’t wait for future books from Kate!
September 27, 2025
This was not what I expected at all, in a good way. Eleanor goes on a journey to her past with the help of a manuscript left by her long departed dad. Secrets are uncovered to her friends Georgina and Jet about Eleanor's past but the biggest ones are uncovered in the manuscript to Eleanor. They travel to the United Kingdom and France to read the manuscript where secrets are revealed and Eleanor has decisions to make. I really enjoyed this one and I would read more from Kate Gawi.
July 3, 2025
This has everything. A love story that spans over timelines, drama, hilarious moments, beautiful scenes, and a most precious bookshop! The story starts in New York, following Eleanor Carling, the CEO of the biggest publishing house, and then it takes you on a ride: beautiful scenery, friendships, a gripping love story, and so many twists and turns. Despite the fast-paced storytelling, it grabs you and takes hold of you, and at times it immerses you. The book is both contemporary and historical, taking you on an emotional rollercoaster. I couldn’t put it down once I started. This is a feel-good book that would make a perfect movie—a precious novel.
July 19, 2025
A beautifully crafted novel blending the old-world and sharp insight into class and legacy into the present times. Powerful and full of thoughts book by Kate! Recommended!
September 11, 2025
Very intriguing storyline and well written with beautiful settings. Couldn’t put the book down, just wamted to keep reading. Greatly described characters!
Just loved it!
Just loved it!
September 17, 2025
A romantic yet classy tale in various beautiful settings. Likeable characters with a surprising twist. Well crafted and flowing to make an engaging reading experience. You won’t want to put it down!
August 8, 2025
Oh-la la! Unputdownable page turner with tons of charm!
Reading The Word Keepers felt like going on a holiday with friends, one I wished would never end.
As someone who is drawn to stories centered around books and libraries, I was excited to read The Word Keepers. While there are many stories featuring bookstores these days, this one easily stands out as one of my favorites. Right from the start, I had a feeling I was going to be all in for this book.
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The story unfolds with a charming bookstore at its heart, but it quickly evolves into something far more profound than I anticipated. The emotional depth of The Word Keepers took me aback. It artfully combines a light and entertaining read with a more soulful exploration of themes that make you dig deep and feel even deeper.
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The characters are well-developed and loveable; I especially loved Jet, who is the ultimate fabulous gay best friend—his humour and charm totally won me over. There's also Georgina, a ravishing lawyer with heart, and Eleanor, the main character, who has an Old Hollywood elegance to her. Together, these friends delve into the mysteries of Eleanor's past, taking you back in time, uncovering layers of secrets.
Overall, The Word Keepers is a beautiful read, offering a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves you feeling touched and uplifted. And the finale. What can I say? It is just perfect.
Reading The Word Keepers felt like going on a holiday with friends, one I wished would never end.
As someone who is drawn to stories centered around books and libraries, I was excited to read The Word Keepers. While there are many stories featuring bookstores these days, this one easily stands out as one of my favorites. Right from the start, I had a feeling I was going to be all in for this book.
---
The story unfolds with a charming bookstore at its heart, but it quickly evolves into something far more profound than I anticipated. The emotional depth of The Word Keepers took me aback. It artfully combines a light and entertaining read with a more soulful exploration of themes that make you dig deep and feel even deeper.
---
The characters are well-developed and loveable; I especially loved Jet, who is the ultimate fabulous gay best friend—his humour and charm totally won me over. There's also Georgina, a ravishing lawyer with heart, and Eleanor, the main character, who has an Old Hollywood elegance to her. Together, these friends delve into the mysteries of Eleanor's past, taking you back in time, uncovering layers of secrets.
Overall, The Word Keepers is a beautiful read, offering a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves you feeling touched and uplifted. And the finale. What can I say? It is just perfect.
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