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The Last Page
A bookseller with a dream of running her beloved bookstore vs. the owner’s out-of-touch grandson who inherits everything. Game on.
From the author of Not in My Book comes another irresistible, bookish contemporary romance.
Ella has grown up at The Last Page, a charming local bookstore in New York City where she now works. Her first kiss was in the women’s health section. A boyfriend dumped her in comedy. The owner is like a second father to her and has begun training her to take over the store. So when he unexpectedly dies and his estranged grandson is left everything in the will, Ella is devastated.
Henry doesn’t know the first thing about running a bookstore. With his aging mom back in Tennessee, he plans to stay in New York just long enough to ensure things are running smoothly and then head back home. What he never could have counted on was the beautiful, funny bookseller who loves The Last Page more than any place in the world—and who sees him as the villain who’s come to ruin her life.
But when it becomes evident that the store is in deep financial trouble and Henry and Ella are both at risk of losing everything, they have no choice but to put their differences aside and team up—despite the inconvenient chemistry blossoming between them.
Fans of Christina Lauren and Ali Hazelwood will adore this rivals-to-friends-to-lovers bookish romance!
From the author of Not in My Book comes another irresistible, bookish contemporary romance.
Ella has grown up at The Last Page, a charming local bookstore in New York City where she now works. Her first kiss was in the women’s health section. A boyfriend dumped her in comedy. The owner is like a second father to her and has begun training her to take over the store. So when he unexpectedly dies and his estranged grandson is left everything in the will, Ella is devastated.
Henry doesn’t know the first thing about running a bookstore. With his aging mom back in Tennessee, he plans to stay in New York just long enough to ensure things are running smoothly and then head back home. What he never could have counted on was the beautiful, funny bookseller who loves The Last Page more than any place in the world—and who sees him as the villain who’s come to ruin her life.
But when it becomes evident that the store is in deep financial trouble and Henry and Ella are both at risk of losing everything, they have no choice but to put their differences aside and team up—despite the inconvenient chemistry blossoming between them.
Fans of Christina Lauren and Ali Hazelwood will adore this rivals-to-friends-to-lovers bookish romance!
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,175 reviews
April 18, 2026
2.75 ⭐ (I changed my mind because the more I think about it, the more frustrated I get.)
જ⁀➴ Ella grew up at a local bookstore in New York City called The Last Page, and now works there. The owner, Leo, was more than a friend to her–he was like a second father and grandfather, and trained her to one day take over the store. She’s thrilled about the idea, but when Leo unexpectedly dies and leaves everything to his estranged grandson, Ella is not only heartbroken, but is also angry that the grandson knows nothing about running a bookstore yet is in charge of her second home.
It’s been years since Henry has been in New York, and he wants nothing more than to go back to Tennessee, where his mom and best friend are, so he plans on making sure the bookstore his late grandfather left him is in order so he can return home. But he didn’t expect to be attracted to a beautiful, funny bookseller who sees him as her enemy, which shouldn’t matter since he’s going back home anyway. However, when Henry finds out that The Last Page is in financial trouble, he and Ella decide to work together to save the store, all the while trying to ignore the sparking chemistry between them.
┗━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━┛
ᴺᴼᵂ ᴾᴸᴬᵞᴵᴺᴳ: More than My Hometown by Morgan Wallen
0:45 ───ㅇ───── 3:36
જ⁀➴ TL;DR: I didn’t hate the book–the characters just sucked. It wasn’t for me.
જ⁀➴ Welcome to another episode of “Not even a hot, nerdy Tennessee man with glasses, a Southern drawl, and a love for his hometown could make me love this book!” I’m your host, Negative Nancy!
My first complaint is the booksellers at The Last Page. They were so annoying and immature, especially when Henry came and tried to make some changes to help the store. Like, I'm sorry, I thought adults worked here–not third graders throwing a tantrum because the teacher decided to make the lesson a little longer than usual FOR YOUR BENEFIT. I was shocked and so freaking annoyed by their behavior, like I would have quit and never stepped foot in New York again because, wow, they sucked. Spoiled children are what they are.
And the things they said! If I were a customer at the bookstore and heard all the things coming out of their mouths, I'd shake my head and chuckle in disbelief, thinking how glad I am that I don't work there because, my God, boundaries and discretion are words that are nonexistent in their vocabulary. Look, I get it. They're “family,” and in a family you can say whatever you want and still be loved, right? Well, I must've had a completely different family dynamic because I would never–and I repeat never–just say the first thing that popped into my head, no matter how true or funny it is (well, it totally depends on the person 😏). I don't want to embarrass myself or the person being talked about, especially if they are present. That's why there's such a thing called etiquette and workplace behavior, because not everything needs to be shared and discussed unless that person would care to share, privately. I don't know. They just rubbed me the wrong way, and they were the reason I hated the first half of the book. They did get better in the second half, but by then it was too late to change my feelings about them.
My next complaint is Ella. Now, I didn't dislike her. She grew on me, except for her biased opinion that New York could be better than a Southern small town because, honey, everyone is different, and it's okay for people to not love what you love. It's called having preferences. Ever heard of it? Not only that, but she also annoyed me in the first half of the book when she was being rude to Henry since he inherited the shop and not her, like Leo said she would. If anything, get mad at Leo, not Henry, for the situation. But no! We need conflict, and the only way we can have the two characters clashing is if they fight over something that could easily be resolved with communication, something mature adults do. Ugh, I am so sick of it. 🤦♀
I don’t know what it is with contemporary romances these days, but the FMCs' “quirky” personalities get on my nerves. Like, you’re not cute, you’re not funny, and no, I cannot relate to you and your bitchiness. Who acts like that to strangers? I try to be a girl’s girl, I really do, but I always find myself rooting for the MMCs the majority of the time because they seem…normal. I think my problem is that our personalities just clash, which is why I get so fed up with them. Maybe I need a break from romances because I am feeling burnt out. 😅😔
Anyway, it’s not like I liked Henry more than I did Ella. I mean, he wasn’t annoying like everyone else in this book, but I didn’t care for him, if that makes sense. He was a meh character, but better than the rest, that's for sure. The only people I actually liked were Ella’s siblings and parents. They made me laugh and smile because they reminded me of my family. But other than that, everyone pretty much sucked the majority of the time.
However, I really did like the second half of the book, when Ella and Henry swallowed their pride and started working together. Did their romance make me swoon? No, but I really liked their friendship, and I love it when romances start as friendships before they develop into something more. And there was no third-act breakup!! Praise the Lord, lol! 😂 That right there gets a star. If there had been a breakup, this would have been an automatic two stars, no questions asked. 😆
I know I complained a lot about this book, but I’ve read worse, so this wasn’t too bad. It was mainly the characters that bothered me, but the plot was okay, and the writing was good, so there are still positives that I can name. And the cover is sooo cute! 😍
Overall, this was pretty much a disappointing read for me. I still recommend it, though, because I’m just not in the mood to be gracious and understanding toward things that get on my nerves, which greatly affected my rating and review. I sincerely hope you love it, if you choose to read it. 💜
୨୧ Thank you to Alcove Press and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. ୨୧
❗Content Warnings❗
Death of friend/loved one & parent (off page)
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes (🌶🌶🌶🌶/5)
જ⁀➴ Ella grew up at a local bookstore in New York City called The Last Page, and now works there. The owner, Leo, was more than a friend to her–he was like a second father and grandfather, and trained her to one day take over the store. She’s thrilled about the idea, but when Leo unexpectedly dies and leaves everything to his estranged grandson, Ella is not only heartbroken, but is also angry that the grandson knows nothing about running a bookstore yet is in charge of her second home.
It’s been years since Henry has been in New York, and he wants nothing more than to go back to Tennessee, where his mom and best friend are, so he plans on making sure the bookstore his late grandfather left him is in order so he can return home. But he didn’t expect to be attracted to a beautiful, funny bookseller who sees him as her enemy, which shouldn’t matter since he’s going back home anyway. However, when Henry finds out that The Last Page is in financial trouble, he and Ella decide to work together to save the store, all the while trying to ignore the sparking chemistry between them.
┗━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━┛
ᴺᴼᵂ ᴾᴸᴬᵞᴵᴺᴳ: More than My Hometown by Morgan Wallen
0:45 ───ㅇ───── 3:36
જ⁀➴ TL;DR: I didn’t hate the book–the characters just sucked. It wasn’t for me.
જ⁀➴ Welcome to another episode of “Not even a hot, nerdy Tennessee man with glasses, a Southern drawl, and a love for his hometown could make me love this book!” I’m your host, Negative Nancy!
My first complaint is the booksellers at The Last Page. They were so annoying and immature, especially when Henry came and tried to make some changes to help the store. Like, I'm sorry, I thought adults worked here–not third graders throwing a tantrum because the teacher decided to make the lesson a little longer than usual FOR YOUR BENEFIT. I was shocked and so freaking annoyed by their behavior, like I would have quit and never stepped foot in New York again because, wow, they sucked. Spoiled children are what they are.
And the things they said! If I were a customer at the bookstore and heard all the things coming out of their mouths, I'd shake my head and chuckle in disbelief, thinking how glad I am that I don't work there because, my God, boundaries and discretion are words that are nonexistent in their vocabulary. Look, I get it. They're “family,” and in a family you can say whatever you want and still be loved, right? Well, I must've had a completely different family dynamic because I would never–and I repeat never–just say the first thing that popped into my head, no matter how true or funny it is (well, it totally depends on the person 😏). I don't want to embarrass myself or the person being talked about, especially if they are present. That's why there's such a thing called etiquette and workplace behavior, because not everything needs to be shared and discussed unless that person would care to share, privately. I don't know. They just rubbed me the wrong way, and they were the reason I hated the first half of the book. They did get better in the second half, but by then it was too late to change my feelings about them.
My next complaint is Ella. Now, I didn't dislike her. She grew on me, except for her biased opinion that New York could be better than a Southern small town because, honey, everyone is different, and it's okay for people to not love what you love. It's called having preferences. Ever heard of it? Not only that, but she also annoyed me in the first half of the book when she was being rude to Henry since he inherited the shop and not her, like Leo said she would. If anything, get mad at Leo, not Henry, for the situation. But no! We need conflict, and the only way we can have the two characters clashing is if they fight over something that could easily be resolved with communication, something mature adults do. Ugh, I am so sick of it. 🤦♀
I don’t know what it is with contemporary romances these days, but the FMCs' “quirky” personalities get on my nerves. Like, you’re not cute, you’re not funny, and no, I cannot relate to you and your bitchiness. Who acts like that to strangers? I try to be a girl’s girl, I really do, but I always find myself rooting for the MMCs the majority of the time because they seem…normal. I think my problem is that our personalities just clash, which is why I get so fed up with them. Maybe I need a break from romances because I am feeling burnt out. 😅😔
Anyway, it’s not like I liked Henry more than I did Ella. I mean, he wasn’t annoying like everyone else in this book, but I didn’t care for him, if that makes sense. He was a meh character, but better than the rest, that's for sure. The only people I actually liked were Ella’s siblings and parents. They made me laugh and smile because they reminded me of my family. But other than that, everyone pretty much sucked the majority of the time.
However, I really did like the second half of the book, when Ella and Henry swallowed their pride and started working together. Did their romance make me swoon? No, but I really liked their friendship, and I love it when romances start as friendships before they develop into something more. And there was no third-act breakup!! Praise the Lord, lol! 😂 That right there gets a star. If there had been a breakup, this would have been an automatic two stars, no questions asked. 😆
I know I complained a lot about this book, but I’ve read worse, so this wasn’t too bad. It was mainly the characters that bothered me, but the plot was okay, and the writing was good, so there are still positives that I can name. And the cover is sooo cute! 😍
Overall, this was pretty much a disappointing read for me. I still recommend it, though, because I’m just not in the mood to be gracious and understanding toward things that get on my nerves, which greatly affected my rating and review. I sincerely hope you love it, if you choose to read it. 💜
୨୧ Thank you to Alcove Press and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. ୨୧
❗Content Warnings❗
Death of friend/loved one & parent (off page)
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Yes (🌶🌶🌶🌶/5)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 2.5/5
I had some mixed opinions. I did like the concept of the book, but the main female character was a work of art.
I'm sorry, but Ella was getting on my last nerve. For a woman who's supposed to be in her twenties (I think 27? don't quote me on it), she's kind of immature. She almost threw a tantrum at everything that Henry did. I get that she's upset about things not going her way, but I was expecting her to be more mature about it. It's obvious she has a lot of unresolved feelings towards the whole situation and her grandfather-granddaughter type relationship with Leo, but she's putting all that aggression on the wrong person, Henry.
I'm not saying Henry didn't have his flaws, but she would consistently make him out to be the villain when he was trying to do his job as the owner of the store. She would undermine him at every step and I get that she has a very personal connection to the store and its history, but she was really starting to get to the stage of being over the top.
The scene where he asked one of the booksellers, Joey, to take out the trash and she was like "no, we have a system, it's not his turn". I mean, it wouldn't have hurt him if he did it after being asked by the owner, right?
That brings me to the point of the booksellers. I think they enabled a lot of the entitled behavior that Ella was showing. I'm glad they thought to be loyal to her, but their first loyalty should be to the person that pays them as well as the actual bookstore.
Other than that, the writing was really good. It definitely made Ella's entitled behavior so much better to get through. Well, initially, because I did like to see her character grow as the book went on. I just wish it didn't take that much time.
Overall, yeah, I did enjoy it, but I think had Ella acted more maturely from the start, I could have enjoyed it so much more.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this arc!!
--------------
2.5(?) rtc.
--------------
pre-read: so I just got the arc for this, but I totally requested way to many arcs.
I had some mixed opinions. I did like the concept of the book, but the main female character was a work of art.
I'm sorry, but Ella was getting on my last nerve. For a woman who's supposed to be in her twenties (I think 27? don't quote me on it), she's kind of immature. She almost threw a tantrum at everything that Henry did. I get that she's upset about things not going her way, but I was expecting her to be more mature about it. It's obvious she has a lot of unresolved feelings towards the whole situation and her grandfather-granddaughter type relationship with Leo, but she's putting all that aggression on the wrong person, Henry.
I'm not saying Henry didn't have his flaws, but she would consistently make him out to be the villain when he was trying to do his job as the owner of the store. She would undermine him at every step and I get that she has a very personal connection to the store and its history, but she was really starting to get to the stage of being over the top.
The scene where he asked one of the booksellers, Joey, to take out the trash and she was like "no, we have a system, it's not his turn". I mean, it wouldn't have hurt him if he did it after being asked by the owner, right?
That brings me to the point of the booksellers. I think they enabled a lot of the entitled behavior that Ella was showing. I'm glad they thought to be loyal to her, but their first loyalty should be to the person that pays them as well as the actual bookstore.
Other than that, the writing was really good. It definitely made Ella's entitled behavior so much better to get through. Well, initially, because I did like to see her character grow as the book went on. I just wish it didn't take that much time.
Overall, yeah, I did enjoy it, but I think had Ella acted more maturely from the start, I could have enjoyed it so much more.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this arc!!
--------------
2.5(?) rtc.
--------------
pre-read: so I just got the arc for this, but I totally requested way to many arcs.
May 13, 2026
🎉Happy Release Day!🎉
Who doesn’t love a shy, hot nerd with nerdy glasses? And if said nerd is also kind, caring, and overall adorable?
I guess the fact that he played football in college and therefore has the body of a football player is just a bonus. 😏
So.
Ella has been working at The Last Page bookstore since her teenage years. She was very close with the owner, who had been preparing her to run it one day and promised to leave it to her in his will. But he didn’t. He left it to his grandson, Henry.
There was a conflict of interest between Ella and Henry initially, but they approached it in an impressively mature manner and quickly became friends.
There’s something special about characters who choose vulnerability over miscommunication, and this book has that kind of magic. Both Ella and Henry were so wonderful that I feel all fuzzy inside when I think about them. And did I mention that there’s no third-act breakup? 😍
The fact that it all happens in a bookstore, and Ella and Henry are surrounded by books in almost every scene, adds to the charm of this story and makes it even more comforting and cozy.
I can’t wait for everyone to read this book!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Edelweiss for the arc, all opinions are my own.
Who doesn’t love a shy, hot nerd with nerdy glasses? And if said nerd is also kind, caring, and overall adorable?
I guess the fact that he played football in college and therefore has the body of a football player is just a bonus. 😏
So.
Ella has been working at The Last Page bookstore since her teenage years. She was very close with the owner, who had been preparing her to run it one day and promised to leave it to her in his will. But he didn’t. He left it to his grandson, Henry.
There was a conflict of interest between Ella and Henry initially, but they approached it in an impressively mature manner and quickly became friends.
There’s something special about characters who choose vulnerability over miscommunication, and this book has that kind of magic. Both Ella and Henry were so wonderful that I feel all fuzzy inside when I think about them. And did I mention that there’s no third-act breakup? 😍
The fact that it all happens in a bookstore, and Ella and Henry are surrounded by books in almost every scene, adds to the charm of this story and makes it even more comforting and cozy.
I can’t wait for everyone to read this book!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Edelweiss for the arc, all opinions are my own.
May 13, 2026
The Last Page is a love letter to book worms and romance readers alike. The luscious story unfolds into a slow burn romance for those who crave yearning, connection, and a building tension that results in the most lovely pairing between Ella and Henry, two people who find themselves on the same side of grief and change. The bookstore setting was the perfect setup for the two to come together and offered so much charm and warmth to the story. It also fostered so much found family, and it was lovely to see all the characters come together and save the shop. Not to mention how refreshing it was to have two emotionally mature MCs. Ella and Henry were such good communicators, and it was so rewarding to watch them navigate everything together while being vulnerable and open. Their connection was palpable, and I just loved how they came into their relationship with so much passion and care for the bookstore and then each other. Filled with heartfelt charm and tender emotion, every page of this romance had me falling more and more in love.
~All the thanks to Alcove Press for an ARC in return for an honest review.
~All the thanks to Alcove Press for an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 13, 2026
3.25 ★— Bookstore romance! I wanted to love this more than I actually did, though I think the audiobook format worked in this story’s favor for me.
After the death of the bookstore owner Ella has worked for for years, she is flabbergasted when his grandson Henry is revealed as the one inheriting and taking over the store, a role she had hoped would go to her.
Interspersed with popular book references, the story maps out the process of Ella and Henry slowly getting over their initial distrust of each other. Most of the hostility between them stems from Ella, which honestly put me off and didn’t seem justified at all, considering Henry had literally just lost his grandfather.
Ella makes him out to be an enemy figure in her head and, though the book does go to great lengths to explain her complex emotions and the expectations she had about maybe running the store herself, and how rooted this all was in her love for the former owner... it just felt off to me, and this feeling wasn’t really eased by the romantic development between these two.
Also, while I thought the pacing was fine in the beginning, as the book does not rush their romance, I personally didn’t get any chemistry between these two when they did finally get closer. Their interactions in no way convinced me they would work in a proper relationship and sometimes it felt like the MMC’s only personality trait was that he was a former football player who wanted to take care of his mom.
Beyond them finding each other hot, there wasn’t really anything about their relationship that convinced me of their love?
So… I think this works as a mindless listen, but anyone wanting a romance that makes them giddy might want to look somewhere else.
🎧 Audiobook Notes
🎙️ Narration Style: Dual
⭐ Listener Rating: 4/5
I thought the narrator used for Henry seemed a little too mature for the character he was portraying, which took a bit to get used to. This was ultimately still easy to listen to, and I thought both narrators were generally solid, but the disparity with the male narrator was quite noticeable.
__________
Thank you to Alcove Press for the ARC and to RBmedia for the ALC.
After the death of the bookstore owner Ella has worked for for years, she is flabbergasted when his grandson Henry is revealed as the one inheriting and taking over the store, a role she had hoped would go to her.
Interspersed with popular book references, the story maps out the process of Ella and Henry slowly getting over their initial distrust of each other. Most of the hostility between them stems from Ella, which honestly put me off and didn’t seem justified at all, considering Henry had literally just lost his grandfather.
Ella makes him out to be an enemy figure in her head and, though the book does go to great lengths to explain her complex emotions and the expectations she had about maybe running the store herself, and how rooted this all was in her love for the former owner... it just felt off to me, and this feeling wasn’t really eased by the romantic development between these two.
Also, while I thought the pacing was fine in the beginning, as the book does not rush their romance, I personally didn’t get any chemistry between these two when they did finally get closer. Their interactions in no way convinced me they would work in a proper relationship and sometimes it felt like the MMC’s only personality trait was that he was a former football player who wanted to take care of his mom.
Beyond them finding each other hot, there wasn’t really anything about their relationship that convinced me of their love?
So… I think this works as a mindless listen, but anyone wanting a romance that makes them giddy might want to look somewhere else.
🎧 Audiobook Notes
🎙️ Narration Style: Dual
⭐ Listener Rating: 4/5
I thought the narrator used for Henry seemed a little too mature for the character he was portraying, which took a bit to get used to. This was ultimately still easy to listen to, and I thought both narrators were generally solid, but the disparity with the male narrator was quite noticeable.
__________
Thank you to Alcove Press for the ARC and to RBmedia for the ALC.
July 13, 2026
✩ 3.5 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Rivals-to-Lovers
➼ Workplace Romance
➼ Slow Burn
➼ NYC Bookstore Setting
➼ Found Family
➼ Grief & Loss
➼ Narrated by Elena Rey & Dan John Miller
➼ Dual First Person POV
Something that always surprises me is that I don’t usually love books with a bookstore setting. Pretty much every book lover romanticizes the idea of running their own bookstore, but there’s something really unglamorous about reading about what that would actually entail. No need to bring reality into this dream. 😆 It seems like they’re always stressed and one setback away from going under which really kills the magic. 🙃
All that being said, this was one of the better bookstore books I’ve read. I liked that the author wrote such a ragtag bunch of characters and that she didn’t try to hide their flaws. Like a real family, they bickered and disagreed and drove each other nuts at times, but they could count on each other for the things that mattered. New York can be a lonely city for many, so I appreciated the little things they wouldn’t bend on like celebrating each other’s birthdays with Magnolia cupcakes. NYC is so transient and many people live away from childhood friends and family, so having people in your life who always remember your birthday and celebrate you is no small thing.
This was a pretty slow burn and I wasn’t sure if I would warm to them as a couple at first, but they did grow on me. I still don’t fully understand why he was so prideful about staying away, but people are pretty hard headed at times I guess. I was also pretty upset about the way the original bookstore owner handled everything. He really did her dirty and he wouldn’t have had any way of knowing that things would work out the way they did. If I were her, it would have really tarnished my memory of him especially considering how close they were. She wasn’t family by blood, but in many ways she was more of a granddaughter to him than he was. It just really didn’t seem fair at all.
The silver lining was that the MMC did come to appreciate her and the bookstore in a real way. Profit margins might be tight, but at least they can live together now in his rent controlled apartment. 😆
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: Love this cover! 😍 Hopefully the book will be just as cute! 🤞🏻
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram ✩ Tiktok
What to Expect:
➼ Rivals-to-Lovers
➼ Workplace Romance
➼ Slow Burn
➼ NYC Bookstore Setting
➼ Found Family
➼ Grief & Loss
➼ Narrated by Elena Rey & Dan John Miller
➼ Dual First Person POV
Something that always surprises me is that I don’t usually love books with a bookstore setting. Pretty much every book lover romanticizes the idea of running their own bookstore, but there’s something really unglamorous about reading about what that would actually entail. No need to bring reality into this dream. 😆 It seems like they’re always stressed and one setback away from going under which really kills the magic. 🙃
All that being said, this was one of the better bookstore books I’ve read. I liked that the author wrote such a ragtag bunch of characters and that she didn’t try to hide their flaws. Like a real family, they bickered and disagreed and drove each other nuts at times, but they could count on each other for the things that mattered. New York can be a lonely city for many, so I appreciated the little things they wouldn’t bend on like celebrating each other’s birthdays with Magnolia cupcakes. NYC is so transient and many people live away from childhood friends and family, so having people in your life who always remember your birthday and celebrate you is no small thing.
This was a pretty slow burn and I wasn’t sure if I would warm to them as a couple at first, but they did grow on me. I still don’t fully understand why he was so prideful about staying away, but people are pretty hard headed at times I guess. I was also pretty upset about the way the original bookstore owner handled everything. He really did her dirty and he wouldn’t have had any way of knowing that things would work out the way they did. If I were her, it would have really tarnished my memory of him especially considering how close they were. She wasn’t family by blood, but in many ways she was more of a granddaughter to him than he was. It just really didn’t seem fair at all.
The silver lining was that the MMC did come to appreciate her and the bookstore in a real way. Profit margins might be tight, but at least they can live together now in his rent controlled apartment. 😆
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: Love this cover! 😍 Hopefully the book will be just as cute! 🤞🏻
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram ✩ Tiktok
![Profile Image for Jessi ❤️ H. Vojsk [if villain, why hot?].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1746468325i/66224803._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
May 9, 2026
A romance set in a bookstore?
What a perfect setting.
Sadly, the setting couldn’t really hold off my lack of love for the characters.
But let’s begin with the good things.
First of all there are two POV - and two audio narrators, which does make listening to it quite enjoyable.
(I don’t really like when they try to make female/male voices and it just sounds off.)
But while the POVs were rather nice, I didn’t like how the audiobook read out emails to me.
I know, it’s in the book, but it was really annoying listening to the email address, date and time in repeat.
Next, I liked how he was a nerdy ex football player, polite but also firm. He was so nice and such a cutie sometimes.
Carmilla was awful to him in the beginning.
I know she was grieving, but he was too?
Then, I don’t know if it’s me personally, but I didn’t really like the spicy scenes in this book.
Not only did they feel weird, the way he says honey reminds me of an old man calling his niece.
All in all, it was a nice read, just not the best.
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook ✨
What a perfect setting.
Sadly, the setting couldn’t really hold off my lack of love for the characters.
But let’s begin with the good things.
First of all there are two POV - and two audio narrators, which does make listening to it quite enjoyable.
(I don’t really like when they try to make female/male voices and it just sounds off.)
But while the POVs were rather nice, I didn’t like how the audiobook read out emails to me.
I know, it’s in the book, but it was really annoying listening to the email address, date and time in repeat.
Next, I liked how he was a nerdy ex football player, polite but also firm. He was so nice and such a cutie sometimes.
Carmilla was awful to him in the beginning.
I know she was grieving, but he was too?
Then, I don’t know if it’s me personally, but I didn’t really like the spicy scenes in this book.
Not only did they feel weird, the way he says honey reminds me of an old man calling his niece.
All in all, it was a nice read, just not the best.
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook ✨
Want to Read
December 31, 2025₊⊹⁀➴ 𝐩𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
YAYYY I JUST GOT THE ARCCCC thank u mikaela!!!! <3
im so so excited for this!!!! katie's debut was amazing and i know this will be so good as well <333
release date: march 10, 2026
YAYYY I JUST GOT THE ARCCCC thank u mikaela!!!! <3
im so so excited for this!!!! katie's debut was amazing and i know this will be so good as well <333
release date: march 10, 2026
June 24, 2026
3.5/5
pish posh.
thank you so much to the publisher for sending me a copy of this story! i love bookstores and falling in love in new york city so this was lovely! through this story of two people coming together to save a failing bookstore, i fell in love with the last page and all its workers. jack's grumpiness, stuart and joey's on again off again situation, and maple's craziness, i was so endeared by all of them!
henry comes to new york when his grandfather dies to take over the family bookstore. he has lived in tennessee he's not used to the fastness of new york, plus he's lonely. i really appreciated that aspect of his character, katie holt did an amazing job writing his depression and his want for people around him mixed with the fears that brings up. ella is immediately irritated by his arrival because she thought she was taking over the store, over time she warms up to henry and together they try to save the store! their romance felt very natural, its clear to see how they make each other's lives better and how their work impacts the store around them!
the audiobook of this was odd because henry would have an accent on one page and not on another but other than that i really enjoyed it! katie holt's 2027 release looks so fun so i will be back for that!
*thanks again to alcove press for the copy!*
pish posh.
thank you so much to the publisher for sending me a copy of this story! i love bookstores and falling in love in new york city so this was lovely! through this story of two people coming together to save a failing bookstore, i fell in love with the last page and all its workers. jack's grumpiness, stuart and joey's on again off again situation, and maple's craziness, i was so endeared by all of them!
henry comes to new york when his grandfather dies to take over the family bookstore. he has lived in tennessee he's not used to the fastness of new york, plus he's lonely. i really appreciated that aspect of his character, katie holt did an amazing job writing his depression and his want for people around him mixed with the fears that brings up. ella is immediately irritated by his arrival because she thought she was taking over the store, over time she warms up to henry and together they try to save the store! their romance felt very natural, its clear to see how they make each other's lives better and how their work impacts the store around them!
the audiobook of this was odd because henry would have an accent on one page and not on another but other than that i really enjoyed it! katie holt's 2027 release looks so fun so i will be back for that!
*thanks again to alcove press for the copy!*
May 18, 2026
I’ve had to be there for so many people and books have always been there for me. No matter the day I’m having, I know can crack one open and feel like I can finally breathe again.
Thanks to NetGalley and RBmedia for sending me an ARC of The Last Page in exchange for an honest review.
The Goodreads description of this book perfectly sets up everything you need to know about the story, so I’ll jump directly to my thoughts.
The Last Page is a charming story. Ella is genuinely combative towards Henry at first, but softens as she learns his deep regret about how things ended with his grandfather. Their relationship develops believably, without any kind of forced third act breakup. There’s a lot of humor, especially involving several of the supporting character book sellers. I enjoyed using the staff pick book recommendations as openers to each chapter. I listened to the audiobook, and thought both of the narrators did a nice job.
The Last Page is a solid story, full of love for books, indie bookstores, and New York City. The store reminded me of The Book Loft in Columbus, Ohio, and that it’s been too long since I visited. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. Recommended.
July 20, 2026
If you love bookstores and New York, this is the perfect cute and cozy romance for you 📚💕
I really enjoyed this! The plot was predictable in a good way, I love that I got just what I expected from this story. The romance was really sweet and I really liked both main characters.
Extra points to this book for not making Ella and Henry unreasonable even if they’re sort of rivals at first. Another aspect I enjoyed was the representation of Peruvian culture since Ella's parents are from Peru.
One thing that I didn’t connect with was the librarians that worked on the bookstore. I got that they were meant to be this bunch of endearingly quirky characters, but personally I felt they were unreasonable and childish 😅
Other than that I had a great time listening to the audio version of this book!
The narrators were both really good, although the male narrator sounded a lot older than Henry was supposed to be, I had to intentionally not think about it when I listened to his chapters 😅
The female narrator was perfect for her character and I loved the range of voices she was able to make, it truly felt like I was listening to different characters talking.
This was my first book from this author and I really enjoyed it!
Thanks to Recorded Books via NetGalley for providing an ALC
I really enjoyed this! The plot was predictable in a good way, I love that I got just what I expected from this story. The romance was really sweet and I really liked both main characters.
Extra points to this book for not making Ella and Henry unreasonable even if they’re sort of rivals at first. Another aspect I enjoyed was the representation of Peruvian culture since Ella's parents are from Peru.
One thing that I didn’t connect with was the librarians that worked on the bookstore. I got that they were meant to be this bunch of endearingly quirky characters, but personally I felt they were unreasonable and childish 😅
Other than that I had a great time listening to the audio version of this book!
The narrators were both really good, although the male narrator sounded a lot older than Henry was supposed to be, I had to intentionally not think about it when I listened to his chapters 😅
The female narrator was perfect for her character and I loved the range of voices she was able to make, it truly felt like I was listening to different characters talking.
This was my first book from this author and I really enjoyed it!
Thanks to Recorded Books via NetGalley for providing an ALC
May 10, 2026
The Last Page truly felt like a book written about book lovers for book lovers, and i absolutely loved that atmosphere surrounding it. between the bookstore setting, the cozy found-family dynamic, and the New York backdrop, the whole story carried that comforting, deeply bookish charm.
the romance follows an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, beginning with Ella mistrusting Henry and resisting everything he represents, before the two of them are forced to work together and slowly navigate the shifting nature of their relationship. but what i appreciated the most was that their connection didn’t begin with the romance itself, there was already history tying them together long before the story started.
Ella’s relationship with The Last Page and its former owner added so much emotional depth to the narrative, especially considering Henry is his grandson. i really loved that contrast: Henry barely knowing his grandfather over the years, while Ella had been one of the closest people to him. it gave them this quiet, shared point of connection that ignited all the tension.
i also enjoyed the way the story balanced the romance with the emotional weight both characters carried. Ella navigating her family dramas and struggles, Henry dealing with his own concerns about his mother, it all blended naturally into the narrative without overwhelming the lighter moments. and i especially loved the employees and found-family atmosphere surrounding the bookstore. it made everything feel warm and alive.
overall, it was such an enjoyable read: cozy, emotional, and filled with that unmistakable love for books and the people who cherish them.
many thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
the romance follows an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, beginning with Ella mistrusting Henry and resisting everything he represents, before the two of them are forced to work together and slowly navigate the shifting nature of their relationship. but what i appreciated the most was that their connection didn’t begin with the romance itself, there was already history tying them together long before the story started.
Ella’s relationship with The Last Page and its former owner added so much emotional depth to the narrative, especially considering Henry is his grandson. i really loved that contrast: Henry barely knowing his grandfather over the years, while Ella had been one of the closest people to him. it gave them this quiet, shared point of connection that ignited all the tension.
i also enjoyed the way the story balanced the romance with the emotional weight both characters carried. Ella navigating her family dramas and struggles, Henry dealing with his own concerns about his mother, it all blended naturally into the narrative without overwhelming the lighter moments. and i especially loved the employees and found-family atmosphere surrounding the bookstore. it made everything feel warm and alive.
overall, it was such an enjoyable read: cozy, emotional, and filled with that unmistakable love for books and the people who cherish them.
many thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Want to Read
December 8, 2025guess who got the arc!
December 1, 2025
I didn’t like this book at all. The characters felt flat and boring, and I never once believed in the chemistry between them, it just wasn’t there. The premise had potential, but the execution completely missed the mark for me. Unfortunately, I don’t recommend this one.
Thank you NetGalley & Alcove Press for this ARC!
Thank you NetGalley & Alcove Press for this ARC!
May 19, 2026
This was definitely a cute story! I feel like it would have been a 5-star rating had there been higher stakes. It was a bit cozy, but again - still really really good.
The characters were hella fun. The book sellers were definitely a wide variety and I loved that about this story.
I feel like the story between the MMC and Leo was a bit drawn out for what it actually was. Still good, but a bit drawn out.
Overall, really liked this book. Found myself laughing out loud a few times.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
The characters were hella fun. The book sellers were definitely a wide variety and I loved that about this story.
I feel like the story between the MMC and Leo was a bit drawn out for what it actually was. Still good, but a bit drawn out.
Overall, really liked this book. Found myself laughing out loud a few times.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2026
Tbh, this book was a snooze fest. I enjoyed her last story, but this one was too juvenile for me. Corny in a way that was annoying and not entertaining.
Ella was immature and selfish for being mad at Henry that HIS GRANDFATHER left him HIS store. She wasn't really owed anything yet she thought she was. She was self centered for thinking that anyone not from New York couldn't experience a fun life. She was sabotaging the store by choosing to argue with Henry when he came on as owner. I could go on. Not a fan
Henry was a wet blanket. Not offensive in any way but also not exciting or interesting.
The side characters working the store were almost immature and catty in a way that was very clearly not conducive to a productive work enviroment.
The romance was stale, I wasn't getting anything from them but "need to stay friends"
All in all, not for me. The taylor swift reference at the end was the final straw. Let's let that go.
Ella was immature and selfish for being mad at Henry that HIS GRANDFATHER left him HIS store. She wasn't really owed anything yet she thought she was. She was self centered for thinking that anyone not from New York couldn't experience a fun life. She was sabotaging the store by choosing to argue with Henry when he came on as owner. I could go on. Not a fan
Henry was a wet blanket. Not offensive in any way but also not exciting or interesting.
The side characters working the store were almost immature and catty in a way that was very clearly not conducive to a productive work enviroment.
The romance was stale, I wasn't getting anything from them but "need to stay friends"
All in all, not for me. The taylor swift reference at the end was the final straw. Let's let that go.
May 1, 2026
3.5⭐️
Huge thanks to RB Media via NetGalley for the complimentary ALC and the publisher for the physical ARC—this ended up being an immersion read for me which helped me but not in the typical way.
I overall enjoyed this one, but if I’m being honest, a lot of that came from pure nostalgia. This book completely transported me back to wandering through NYC—ducking into those tucked-away Manhattan bookstores, spending hours browsing, and soaking in all the quirky charm and unforgettable characters that make those spaces feel so magical. That vibe? Absolutely nailed.
That said… this was a bit of a slow start for me. I really struggled with the FMC at first. Her immediate reactions and behavior toward the MMC were frustrating, even though her internal monologue knew better. I get that conflict has to exist, but it definitely tested my patience early on.
Thankfully, things turned around once the two main characters started working together. Their dynamic improved so much, and I genuinely enjoyed their banter and growing connection. The romance includes some spice, but it felt purposeful—supporting the story and their relationship rather than overpowering it, which I appreciated.
I paired the physical copy with the audiobook, and while I love an immersion read, this one didn’t quite elevate the experience. The narration (Elena Rey and Dan John Miller) just didn’t fully land for me. This screams duet narration, and it’s such a missed opportunity that it wasn’t done that way. Rey handled the FMC well, but the secondary voices—especially male ones—were TOUGH to get through at times. I was definitely grateful to have the physical book to lean on, because I’m not sure I would’ve stuck it out on audio alone.
All that said, this still landed as a comfort read for me, flaws and all, and I’d absolutely pick up this author again.
Huge thanks to RB Media via NetGalley for the complimentary ALC and the publisher for the physical ARC—this ended up being an immersion read for me which helped me but not in the typical way.
I overall enjoyed this one, but if I’m being honest, a lot of that came from pure nostalgia. This book completely transported me back to wandering through NYC—ducking into those tucked-away Manhattan bookstores, spending hours browsing, and soaking in all the quirky charm and unforgettable characters that make those spaces feel so magical. That vibe? Absolutely nailed.
That said… this was a bit of a slow start for me. I really struggled with the FMC at first. Her immediate reactions and behavior toward the MMC were frustrating, even though her internal monologue knew better. I get that conflict has to exist, but it definitely tested my patience early on.
Thankfully, things turned around once the two main characters started working together. Their dynamic improved so much, and I genuinely enjoyed their banter and growing connection. The romance includes some spice, but it felt purposeful—supporting the story and their relationship rather than overpowering it, which I appreciated.
I paired the physical copy with the audiobook, and while I love an immersion read, this one didn’t quite elevate the experience. The narration (Elena Rey and Dan John Miller) just didn’t fully land for me. This screams duet narration, and it’s such a missed opportunity that it wasn’t done that way. Rey handled the FMC well, but the secondary voices—especially male ones—were TOUGH to get through at times. I was definitely grateful to have the physical book to lean on, because I’m not sure I would’ve stuck it out on audio alone.
All that said, this still landed as a comfort read for me, flaws and all, and I’d absolutely pick up this author again.
May 16, 2026
The Last Page has officially made Katie Holt one of my must read authors! This was just as fantastic as her debut, Not in My Book, and we even got a small cameo from Rosie and Aiden. The Last Page felt like a warm hug--I was smiling the entire time I read it and anytime I put it down, I was eager to pick it back up. Henry was just as swoon worthy as Aiden, and his southern charm made him one of my favorite MMCs in a looooong time. I loved that we got to see his protectiveness of Ella, and how he took care of her. Those who love strong, independent, stubborn FMCs who take care of everything alone until they meet the guy who wants to take care of her for a change will absolutely die for Ella and Henry. Their love was subtle and felt genuine, and I really enjoyed how we got to see their relationship progress from strangers, to friends, to lovers. Outside of Ella and Henry, I also loved the eclectic cast of side characters. They added just the perfect amount of realness to the story, and kept it feeling fresh and fun.
All in all, The Last Page was a fun, light hearted romance that I think all will enjoy. I recommend for those looking for a quick palate cleanser, or for a feel good love story that will leave you smiling. Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for this ALC in exchange for my honest review! All opinions are my own. The Last Page is out now!
All in all, The Last Page was a fun, light hearted romance that I think all will enjoy. I recommend for those looking for a quick palate cleanser, or for a feel good love story that will leave you smiling. Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for this ALC in exchange for my honest review! All opinions are my own. The Last Page is out now!
May 25, 2026
4,5 ⭐️ I had such a fun time reading this book!! Loved it.
April 19, 2026
I’m declaring this as a true love letter to bibliophiles and my new favourite romance!
For fans of Christina Lauren and Ali Hazelwood, Katie Holt’s The Last Page is the perfect summer romance set in a NYC bookstore on the brink of closure.
After the unexpected death of it’s beloved owner, Leo, The Last Page’s booksellers are fearful about it’s fate and theirs. Bookseller Ella, who grew up amongst the books and experienced heartbreak and love between the bookshelves, is ready to take over as owner. That is until Leo’s estranged grandson, Henry shows up as the new official owner. Devastated by this outcome, Ella is determined to continue as a bookseller but when Henry tells her The Last Page is on the verge of closure in a few short months, she’s at risk of losing the place she loves the most. With Ella expertise and Henry’s experience as a business consultant, they put their differences cues aside, team up and hatch a plan to save the bookstore, and try to ignore the chemistry blossoming between them.
I think I loved everything about this book. From the endearing staff picks that begin each chapter, to the way Katie Holt’s writing brings The Last Page to life, to the booksellers who are oddballs but feel very realistic and charming, to the exploration of grief and to the slow burn dislike to love romance between Ella and Henry.
The romance was *screams* SO GOOD! It gave me the feel good feelings of an early 2000s rom-com with their disaster first meeting, slightly hating each other, rubbing each other the wrong way (and then the right hehe!) and seeing these two people gradually get to know one another, get to love parts of each other in secret until they can’t hold back any longer. Them making out amongst the bookshelves omgggg it was hot. And this book has one of my favourite romance micro-tropes in it and I am so thankful for that. The tenderness and love and understanding between them was so cute and just made me smile so much. Katie Holt made me feel things!!
This book just ticked so many boxes for me. I felt so at home reading this. I could so clearly imagine The Last Page, a place I’d definitely would find great comfort in visiting and browsing. I almost wish it was a real place!
Think what MADE this book was all the wonderful literary references. And I’m not only just talking about references to the Brontë sisters or modern classics, but about smutty books, Ice Planet Barbarians, Emily Henry, shipping, and … knotting! Which has me laughing out loud. This was written by someone who loves and breaths and lives for books. Katie Holt is a book girlie and I appreciate it.
If you’re looking for a book themed romance set in spring/summer in New York City, read The Last Page by Katie Holt! I can’t wait to buy a copy of this so it can live on my bookshelves forever! I love the feeling when you find a new favourite romance.
Thank you Alcove Press and Netgalley for this eARC!
The Last Page by Katie Holt is out on 12th May 2026!
For fans of Christina Lauren and Ali Hazelwood, Katie Holt’s The Last Page is the perfect summer romance set in a NYC bookstore on the brink of closure.
After the unexpected death of it’s beloved owner, Leo, The Last Page’s booksellers are fearful about it’s fate and theirs. Bookseller Ella, who grew up amongst the books and experienced heartbreak and love between the bookshelves, is ready to take over as owner. That is until Leo’s estranged grandson, Henry shows up as the new official owner. Devastated by this outcome, Ella is determined to continue as a bookseller but when Henry tells her The Last Page is on the verge of closure in a few short months, she’s at risk of losing the place she loves the most. With Ella expertise and Henry’s experience as a business consultant, they put their differences cues aside, team up and hatch a plan to save the bookstore, and try to ignore the chemistry blossoming between them.
I think I loved everything about this book. From the endearing staff picks that begin each chapter, to the way Katie Holt’s writing brings The Last Page to life, to the booksellers who are oddballs but feel very realistic and charming, to the exploration of grief and to the slow burn dislike to love romance between Ella and Henry.
The romance was *screams* SO GOOD! It gave me the feel good feelings of an early 2000s rom-com with their disaster first meeting, slightly hating each other, rubbing each other the wrong way (and then the right hehe!) and seeing these two people gradually get to know one another, get to love parts of each other in secret until they can’t hold back any longer. Them making out amongst the bookshelves omgggg it was hot. And this book has one of my favourite romance micro-tropes in it and I am so thankful for that. The tenderness and love and understanding between them was so cute and just made me smile so much. Katie Holt made me feel things!!
This book just ticked so many boxes for me. I felt so at home reading this. I could so clearly imagine The Last Page, a place I’d definitely would find great comfort in visiting and browsing. I almost wish it was a real place!
Think what MADE this book was all the wonderful literary references. And I’m not only just talking about references to the Brontë sisters or modern classics, but about smutty books, Ice Planet Barbarians, Emily Henry, shipping, and … knotting! Which has me laughing out loud. This was written by someone who loves and breaths and lives for books. Katie Holt is a book girlie and I appreciate it.
If you’re looking for a book themed romance set in spring/summer in New York City, read The Last Page by Katie Holt! I can’t wait to buy a copy of this so it can live on my bookshelves forever! I love the feeling when you find a new favourite romance.
Thank you Alcove Press and Netgalley for this eARC!
The Last Page by Katie Holt is out on 12th May 2026!
December 14, 2025
not in my book was easily one of my favorite books i read in 2024 and a book i was so thrilled to be able to revisit again this year with my book club so needless to say, i was so excited for katie holt’s sophomore release but was unfortunately left feeling very underwhelmed.
i love a book about books and the synopsis promised charm and nostalgic comfort with a book centric plot line. our main characters come from two very different worlds and they must set aside their differences to team up and save a beloved independent bookstore in the bustling city of new york. a recipe with all the right ingredients but it just didn’t work for me.
the story is supported by a quirky cast of side characters (the booksellers) and while this was meant to add dynamics through humor and endearment, i found myself growing more and more irritated with the focus being on saving a bookstore with booksellers who were bad at their job (i work at a bookstore and the way nearly all of these employees were behaving was intolerable 😩). the romance didn’t even grow fledgling wings until over the 60% mark and at this point, i felt no spark between the leads, what was attempted to get them together felt forced and in all honesty, i would have preferred that they hadn’t ended up together as it felt like a typical case of falling for your coworker because they’re the only option in proximity.
katie’s writing is engaging and it’s so clear that she is talented but this was not the sweeping romance i anticipated after being left breathless with not in my book.
thank you to Alcove Press for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest thoughts 💌
i love a book about books and the synopsis promised charm and nostalgic comfort with a book centric plot line. our main characters come from two very different worlds and they must set aside their differences to team up and save a beloved independent bookstore in the bustling city of new york. a recipe with all the right ingredients but it just didn’t work for me.
the story is supported by a quirky cast of side characters (the booksellers) and while this was meant to add dynamics through humor and endearment, i found myself growing more and more irritated with the focus being on saving a bookstore with booksellers who were bad at their job (i work at a bookstore and the way nearly all of these employees were behaving was intolerable 😩). the romance didn’t even grow fledgling wings until over the 60% mark and at this point, i felt no spark between the leads, what was attempted to get them together felt forced and in all honesty, i would have preferred that they hadn’t ended up together as it felt like a typical case of falling for your coworker because they’re the only option in proximity.
katie’s writing is engaging and it’s so clear that she is talented but this was not the sweeping romance i anticipated after being left breathless with not in my book.
thank you to Alcove Press for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest thoughts 💌
December 18, 2025
katie holt, i absolutely love your books! not in my book was easily a five-star read for me this year so i had high hopes when i started the last page. when compared to her debut, however, this one did fall flat for me. given my four stars rating, i did still enjoy it but this would not be my favorite book by her.
the last page is an ode to bookstores and booksellers in new york city. there is such a strong emphasis on found family, with the entire plot centered on saving the bookstore after discovering it’s in debt and on the verge of closing. i was so drawn to the storyline and interactions between the main characters and side characters, that i didn’t mind when the romance took a backseat or the chemistry was not front and center. while the tension and banter was lacking, the spicy scenes were somehow incredible… as always katie absolutely knows how to write them.
thank you to netgalley and alcove press for the e-arc in exchange for a honest review.
the last page is an ode to bookstores and booksellers in new york city. there is such a strong emphasis on found family, with the entire plot centered on saving the bookstore after discovering it’s in debt and on the verge of closing. i was so drawn to the storyline and interactions between the main characters and side characters, that i didn’t mind when the romance took a backseat or the chemistry was not front and center. while the tension and banter was lacking, the spicy scenes were somehow incredible… as always katie absolutely knows how to write them.
thank you to netgalley and alcove press for the e-arc in exchange for a honest review.
June 10, 2026
this book got a time out for the phrase sucking my button
May 5, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️
I love a good enemies-to-lovers story, and when you set it in a bookstore, I’m already in. Turn the Page by Katie Holt had all the right ingredients for me, but what really stood out was how elevated the writing felt compared to other bookstore romances.
Ella’s connection to The Last Page is so personal and layered, and you can feel how much is at stake for her from the very beginning. Henry stepping in as the outsider who doesn’t understand that history sets up that perfect tension. Their dynamic delivers exactly what you want from enemies to lovers, but it never feels forced. The emotional stakes and the humor are both strong, and they’re balanced really well throughout the story.
There’s a lot of heart here too. It’s not just about romance. It’s about grief, legacy, and figuring out what to hold onto and what to let go of. That gave the story more depth than I expected, in the best way.
I listened to this on audio, narrated by Elena Rey and Dan John Miller, and both were new to me. They did a great job bringing Ella and Henry to life and really helped capture the tone of the story.
Overall, this is definitely going to be one of my favorite reads of the year. If you love enemies to lovers, bookstore settings, and stories with both humor and heart, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Thanks to the author, their publisher, and NetGalley for the ALC!
1.5/5 🌶️
I love a good enemies-to-lovers story, and when you set it in a bookstore, I’m already in. Turn the Page by Katie Holt had all the right ingredients for me, but what really stood out was how elevated the writing felt compared to other bookstore romances.
Ella’s connection to The Last Page is so personal and layered, and you can feel how much is at stake for her from the very beginning. Henry stepping in as the outsider who doesn’t understand that history sets up that perfect tension. Their dynamic delivers exactly what you want from enemies to lovers, but it never feels forced. The emotional stakes and the humor are both strong, and they’re balanced really well throughout the story.
There’s a lot of heart here too. It’s not just about romance. It’s about grief, legacy, and figuring out what to hold onto and what to let go of. That gave the story more depth than I expected, in the best way.
I listened to this on audio, narrated by Elena Rey and Dan John Miller, and both were new to me. They did a great job bringing Ella and Henry to life and really helped capture the tone of the story.
Overall, this is definitely going to be one of my favorite reads of the year. If you love enemies to lovers, bookstore settings, and stories with both humor and heart, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Thanks to the author, their publisher, and NetGalley for the ALC!
May 14, 2026
Wonderfully bookish and romantic, this felt like a love letter in layers. It's a love letter to New York, bookselling, bookshops, family, stories and romance. It's rom-com with a touch of sit-com in the best way and I had a really great time with it!
what to expect:
- nyc setting
- bookselling
- slow burn
- workplace romance
- peurto rican fmc
- depression rep (mmc)
- found family
what to expect:
- nyc setting
- bookselling
- slow burn
- workplace romance
- peurto rican fmc
- depression rep (mmc)
- found family
February 16, 2026
The Last Page is a quick and fun romance for lovers of slow burn, found family, and books about books. Reading about Henry (the nerdy mmc that blushes and wears slutty little glasses) and Ellla (the sassy, type a latina fmc) was such a joy - especially when it came to their meet cute and the tension that came with reluctantly teaming up to save the bookstore they work in. And I can't forget about the eccentric bookstore staff, whose scenes always made me chuckle.
One of my favorite things about reading books written by Katie Holt is the impeccable Peruvian representation. Being married into a Peruvian/Peruvian-American family, I loooved seeing all the references to their food and traditions. The mention of ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sour had my mouth water watering 😋
Although I felt like there was something missing for me in Katie's sophomore novel, there were still so many things that I enjoyed including a cute cameo of Aiden and Rosie from Not In My Book, the NYC setting, and how this story felt like a love letter to bookstores and book owners. I would recommend The Last Page to fans of enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romances with fun banter and latine representation.
One of my favorite things about reading books written by Katie Holt is the impeccable Peruvian representation. Being married into a Peruvian/Peruvian-American family, I loooved seeing all the references to their food and traditions. The mention of ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sour had my mouth water watering 😋
Although I felt like there was something missing for me in Katie's sophomore novel, there were still so many things that I enjoyed including a cute cameo of Aiden and Rosie from Not In My Book, the NYC setting, and how this story felt like a love letter to bookstores and book owners. I would recommend The Last Page to fans of enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romances with fun banter and latine representation.
June 10, 2026
Wow. I cried, I laughed, and I kicked my feet. Beautiful story!
May 16, 2026
I had issues with the misogyny in the author's other book and genuinely thought this was going way better until I read the phrase "turning my brain off" in the context of the mmc cooking for her and it's just so ridiculous that I had to pause for a bit. We're not going to act like we're not aware of the misogynistic undertones that phrase carries too, like what happened to using the word relax?!!!
June 15, 2026
dnf at 34%
I found the fmc and the bookstore workers annoying and I just didn’t care enough about the main romance to continue
I found the fmc and the bookstore workers annoying and I just didn’t care enough about the main romance to continue
March 11, 2026
I don’t know….maybe this 2.5 should be rounded up to three. But in the end, I just really wasn’t very impressed.
For one thing, the characters in this book had absolutely zero chemistry. To the extent that it was kind of bizarre? I was trying to suss out what exactly was missing but I think the main driver of that deficiency was that this book alternates between the male and female POV. It’s a really hard thing to pull off in a romance book, because your guy character has to actually FEEL like a guy. At one point in this book, I forgot to read the chapter heading and was genuinely unsure whose POV I was reading in. If both people feel the same, it’s impossible for them to have any sexual chemistry (or at least, it was in this book).
The plot was sort of cliche and straightforward, and while the secondary characters were genuinely quite funny, they sort of felt like they were just there for the laughs, rather than being their own people.
Nothing too terrible or cringe, but just kind of…boring. A disappointing read for me, personally!
Thanks to the publisher for the eARC!
For one thing, the characters in this book had absolutely zero chemistry. To the extent that it was kind of bizarre? I was trying to suss out what exactly was missing but I think the main driver of that deficiency was that this book alternates between the male and female POV. It’s a really hard thing to pull off in a romance book, because your guy character has to actually FEEL like a guy. At one point in this book, I forgot to read the chapter heading and was genuinely unsure whose POV I was reading in. If both people feel the same, it’s impossible for them to have any sexual chemistry (or at least, it was in this book).
The plot was sort of cliche and straightforward, and while the secondary characters were genuinely quite funny, they sort of felt like they were just there for the laughs, rather than being their own people.
Nothing too terrible or cringe, but just kind of…boring. A disappointing read for me, personally!
Thanks to the publisher for the eARC!
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