The Secret Library

by Amanda James

Some stories don't end. They wait to be found…Book editor Lucy Thomas has just inherited her grandmother’s windswept Cornish home, and with it, a library bathed in sunlight, a spiral staircase that leads to secrets, and a battered box filled with unfinished stories…

To honour her grandmother’s last wish, Lucy must finish what was left undone – and discover the magic hiding between the lines.

Filled with warmth, whispers of magic, and the irreplaceable comfort of books, The Secret Library is for anyone who knows how one story can change everything.

Genres: Fantasy

351 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication June 4, 2026

Reviews

[Maria P · Rating 3 out of 5]

° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓛;𝓓𝓡 ✧˖°
A nostalgic magical realism read perfect for readers looking for characters that literally come to life, an interesting magic system, and a gran's love so strong it overcomes time itself.

° ˖✧ 𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
3 ⭐
1 🌶️

° ˖✧ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
"I know you're destined for great things, Lucy. So many people's lives will be changed for the better because of you."

"Often, it's not just about the story, is it? It's the memories and magic that come with it."

"Jory is the one. You know, the idea of the one you were always sceptical about and scoffed at? Well, it's actually a thing. Not for everyone, I'll grant you, but Jory is yours."

"Since when is it a bad thing to do good? Some may sneer, deride and mock what we try to do, but we must stand firm and do good anyway."

° ˖✧ 𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ✧˖°
When Lucy inherits her grandmother’s Cornish home and a library filled with unfinished stories, Lucy must honour her grandmother’s final wish and complete the manuscripts, uncovering the quiet magic hidden within her legacy.

° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
🫶 Found Family
🏘️ Small Town
📚 Books about Books
🔮 Clairvoyance
💫 Teleportation
🕰️ Time Travel (ish)

° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
🪦 Familial Grief
💔 Infidelity outside Main Pair

° ˖✧ 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
+ Nostalgic Beginning
+ Authentic Family Bonds
+ Meaningful Character Growth
+ Characters Coming to Life
+ Interesting Magic System
+ Connecting with Lost Loved Ones

° ˖✧ 𝓓𝓲𝓼𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
- Didn't connect with overall Voice
- Lots of Exposition/Repetitiveness
- Slower Pacing
- Insta-Love (friendships and relationships)
- Dialogue lead most Plot Progression
- Vague explanations to Magic

° ˖✧ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✧˖°
On the surface, this read sounded right up my street! Unfortunately, I just didn't connect easily to the voice of the book, or some of the story choices. However, I think The Secret Library will still resonate with others!

At the start, we see Lucy as a child visiting her Gran's house and the wave of nostalgia immediately hit me. There's something so poignant about a memory like that trapped in time. I feel like the strength of the bond between Lucy and her Gran was obvious and authentic, contrasted by Lucy's difficult relationship with her mum.

One thing I struggled with early on, however, was the amount of exposition. We get a lot of descriptors of the house her Grandparents had, which do drag the pacing down a lot. This is further emphasised in later chapters when Lucy describes the property to friends, or visits it after her Gran's death. It's all a little repetitive for me.

Also, we meet a coworker of Lucy's early on - Claude. She seems nice enough, but they're very fast "friends". They don't appear to have much in common other than Lucy taking Claude under her wing at work a little. It seems a friendship of convenience more than anything to me, but this relationship continues to build as though they're best friends throughout. Claude unfortunately felt more like a plot device than an actual character with independence.

And really, these things that I struggled with continued to appear as the book went on. The speed at which Lucy befriends Claude is also the same speed that she "falls" for Jory. Their romantic relationship moves much faster than my personal preference (I love a slow burn). A lot of the story repeats in dialogue, or dialogue is used as a means to progress the plot. This also happened to slow pacing again for me.

However, that's not to say it was all bad. As mentioned earlier, I loved the connection between Lucy and her grandparents, and once Lucy begins working on the manuscripts it's really fun to see the characters come to life and how Lucy deals with that. I found the messages that Lucy learns while working on those stories to be relatable and strong. And it was nice for her to finally find her people.

Plus, Lucy having the ability to communicate with her lost loved ones later on through the magic of her library was really emotive. The idea that when she finishes the manuscripts, they go back to the past and change the present is very interesting! Where it becomes a bit far-fetched for me is when there's no actual explanation for these things. A lot of the characters give the answer "it's just magic" and leave it there - but I prefer a less vague justification. Especially when Lucy shouldn't be able to do certain things that only fictional characters can manage.

Despite this, I think fans of the author's existing work would enjoy it, as well as those looking to relive memories with lost loved ones. It's lovely imagery, and has an overall feel-good vibe.

Thank you to Amanda James and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed a number of magical realism and romance books by Amanda James so I knew this would be fun, magical and inspiring. Of course any title with library or bookshop grabs my attention as these are two of my favourite places! Considering this was a story about books and a secret library that had power—well it is not easy to see I was easily persuaded.

The Secret Library is quite a feast of possibilities, brimming with hope and dreams that come true. Lucy Thomas is a book editor and she has just got the shock of her life. At the hearing of her grandmother’s will, she discovers she has inherited her grand home. She is first put to a unique test and passes. From this moment on, we know there are going to be some very unusual things happening in this story. Of course, we don’t know initially how special this library is but we witness it quickly when Lucy is tasked by her grandmother to edit some unfinished manuscripts she has left behind in her library. As we gradually get to know Lucy and learn about her late grandmother, we realise they share some very unique characteristics and interests.

The setting of the novel is quite atmospheric and on this windswept Cornish coast, the dance of lights spark imaginations. The box of unfinished stories takes on quite the life when Lucy begins to edit these forgotten tales—to fulfil her grandmother’s wishes. But little do we know (including Lucy) what amazing things will happen to the authors she encounters and the characters they create.

During this discovery, Lucy begins dating again but is hesitant at first due to previous romantic disasters. And sadly one of the men she encounters is not quite what he seems. But through various promptings that come about during her editing of manuscripts, she discovers a new writer with a bizarre connection to the past. She will be drawn to him in a way like no other. I know I am talking in riddles but I don’t want to give anything away as there are a number of surprises readers will enjoy.

Lucy’s best friend, Claude, is an important support person for her even though Lucy cannot share her secrets about the library. They have some brilliant discussions, though, about books and life. Claude starts out as more of a realist saying we cannot bury our heads in the sand. (But something happens to her that will alter her views as far as romance is concerned.) But Lucy is the dreamer who wishes to see more uplifting fiction that allows people to be transported to somewhere special, to escape the frustrations of life—even if only for a short while. She seeks manuscripts of originality, individuality and magic—that make readers feel like they are kids again. To foster the belief, there is hope.

The Secret Library makes some strong statements about how much we need positive fiction in our lives. It also highlights the responsibilities authors have but also the support and encouragement they need to keep writing. Books can heal, influence, help and free hearts. Lucy’s job is not only to find those story diamonds in the rough and help polish the work but to also be an encourager of writers. The publishing journey is a tough one where lots of self-doubt can surface. Writers need support and kind words—to know they are on the right track. And if they are not, a bit of gentle guidance is appreciated.

The characters in this story manage to do the impossible. And Lucy quotes Mary Poppins: ‘Everything is possible, even the impossible.’ This is the heartbeat of the story. All the things that transpire in Lucy’s domain, under the influence of her library, grandmother and even grandfather, are quite special. I enjoyed the journey, the revelations, the surprises, the drama, the romance, the magic and mystery. It’s an imaginatively written story that book lovers everywhere will enjoy. Yes, suspend belief as that is what this story is about. Its magical realism qualities are here. We get a detailed picture of the real world but it is infused with the supernatural, the magical and divine. This novel invites us to take a ride on the magic carpet! Be a child again and believe. 4.5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

A celebration of the power of fiction to inspire and uplift people, in the form of a magical-realist novel in which characters from books literally come alive through the work of authors, editors, and readers.

Lucy is introduced to us first as a 10-year-old girl looking forward to staying with her editor grandmother at her beautiful house in Cornwall. Inspired by her grandmother, she herself becomes an editor - but by the age of 30 is becoming disillusioned with the sameness (and darkness) of the fiction that's submitted to her company. She's an acquiring editor and a developmental editor, so she chooses which books to move forward with and then helps the authors make them as good as they can be. And she's finding it hard to come up with "diamonds"; everyone is writing the same book, and not doing a great job of it. I definitely empathise, because it's hard these days to find books to read that aren't just a rehash of the same few premises, most of them dark and depressing. Even in the positive speculative fiction subgenres - noblebright, cozy fantasy, solarpunk, hopepunk - there's a lot of mediocre or poorly crafted work that's just repeating the same ideas.

In light of the theme of books that stand out from the norm, it's a... bold move to invoke one of the most overused tropes of contemporary fantasy fiction: an inheritance from a relative that introduces a woman to her magical heritage. There's also instalove, not just one but two instances, and despite all of the lampshade hanging about how that's unrealistic, there it is at the heart of the story. It's not just made from box mix, though; there is some originality to the story.

Lucy starts meeting characters from books, which isn't new to her, since she talked and played with Bilbo Baggins, Christopher Robin and Mary Poppins as a child. What is new is that, by editing unfinished manuscripts that her grandmother has left to her along with the house, and writing the authors, who had given up, encouraging notes, she reaches across the decades and causes the books to have been finished, and successful, and inspirational for readers. Their key characters emerge into the real world and start to play a role in the plot.

The book has ambitions to be one of those wonderful, inspirational books that lifts people up and influences them in the direction of kindness and generosity. I think it gets partway there. The reason that, for me, it doesn't get all the way there is that it's competent rather than brilliant in its execution, and overt and obvious in its message, which is sometimes more told than shown. The characters are well drawn, but they don't come alive and step off the page like the ones we're told about from the previously-unfinished novels within the novel; they feel generic to me. The hot fisherman with the sensitive soul, the disillusioned 30-year-old editor, her bouncy best friend... none of them have that extra spark of uniqueness. For that matter, the fictional characters who are so vivid to the readers that they enter the real world are not, in this novel, that vivid. The book's reach exceeds its grasp.

It's a commendable reach, though, and a good message, and an enjoyable book. I do recommend it for lovers of positive fiction and people who are thinking about giving up on their dreams.

[Mana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I walked into The Secret Library expecting another cozy, predictable trope about a girl inheriting a house, but Amanda James managed to skip the usual saccharine coating. Lucy Thomas is a book editor, which usually feels like a cheap meta-trick, but here it works because she’s actually cynical about the industry. She isn’t just wandering through a sunny Cornish library; she is stuck with her grandmother’s loose ends. The real conflict isn't the house; it’s the annoying weight of finishing someone else’s life when your own feels like a mess.

The Cornwall here isn't a postcard. It’s salty, cold, and a bit unwelcoming, which is exactly how a secret-heavy village should feel. Lucy’s growth is slow and uncomfortable. She stops fixing other people’s sentences and starts dealing with her own. The secondary characters have actual lives and tragedies; they aren't just there to point her toward the next clue. It’s about the messy process of settling into a legacy you didn't ask for.

The book looks at our obsession with closure with a sharp eye. We hate unfinished stories, but some are better left open. The writing is lean. James focuses on the smell of old paper and the chill of a library at night instead of using tired scenery descriptions. It lacks that fake warmth I usually find in this genre. The tone is observational, a bit dry, and fundamentally honest about grief.

I wanted more speed in the middle. There are pages where Lucy just circles her own indecision, and I wanted her to get on with it. While the manuscripts are a good hook, a few subplots settle a bit too neatly for my taste. But the emotional side works because James knows a house is just a container for the people who died in it. It made me miss the days when people actually wrote things down by hand.

This is for people who want their bookish fiction to have some reality. It’s not a loud page-turner. It’s a quiet, sharp look at how we inherit unfulfilled dreams. James creates a space that feels lived-in and heavy with regret, which makes the ending feel like a relief rather than a cliché. If you’re sick of "magical" libraries that feel like theme parks, this grounded version is a better bet.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Library is a love letter to books through and through.

The book uses magical realism, which is really neat. The magical elements are interwoven throughout modern life pretty well. James takes time to explain why and how some things work, but I'm glad she didn't explain everything because it adds to the magic! Most of my favorite scenes had heavy magical realism elements. The "book characters" that come to life within the world are definitely the best part of the story in my opinion. They were so interesting and I liked their interactions with Lucy.

My biggest critiques of the book have to do with the pacing and the love story. To start with pacing, I think the book started wonderfully. The first third had my glued to my seat, reading Lucy's story. The hook was good, the relationships intriguing but not overwhelming, and the mystery of the secret library is starting to mount. However, by the midpoint of the book, the story starts to slow after she meets Jory and the magical realism elements definitely start to get more complicated.

The love story also put me off a little just because the main character spends a lot of time saying that there is no "the one" and that love at first sight doesn't exist and society pushes women to get married really quickly and that societal pressure shouldn't exist... then a few characters fall in love at first sight. It was just a weird contradiction. It was hard to stay upset though, because the love story itself was quite sweet and wholesome. The climax of the story, which includes Lucy's partner Jory, was a beautiful expression of love.

The Secret Library is a book that encourages letting your inner child coming to play and your imagination running wild, which is such a playful and sweet theme. The writing itself is enjoyable to read, despite a few contradictions and pacing issues which are easy to ignore. The magical realism elements are inventive and the characters themselves are treats. I would recommend this book to lovers of books and stories. For anyone looking for a sign to treat their inner child, this book is for you.

[Nathanael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book!

To summarise this book without spoilers will be very tricky. I will say that going into this book I had no idea what it would entail, especially as it was in a genre that I typically do not read. But I am glad that, like the main character of this story, I entered into this journey with an open heart and a love for reading.

This is a book for those who love books. With magical libraries, the main character’s role as a book editor, her grandma’s insights from her career in the same role, and numerous novel references weaved in, it’s hard not to get sucked into the magic of this tale.

At its heart the messages are clear - it’s easy to get sucked into the day to day work grind, to feel that our goals are unattainable, that love is beyond your grasp and that we do as individuals doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things. But through the power of books, our main character, Lucy examines, explores and addresses each of these themes.

The book is well structured, with a central and compelling plot thread that serves up just enough mystery to keep you turning to the next page. When you think you understand what is happening, another surprise reveal happens. At the same time, the book remains cosy and thoughtful, and so delightfully British! The author’s vivid descriptions, warm humour, and textured characters make the world feel grounded yet whimsical.

While at first I wasn’t drawn in by the romance side of the novel, the ways in which it develops throughout the plot intertwine well with the numerous themes and ultimately resolve in a very satisfying way.

I ended up finishing this book renewed in my lifelong love for reading, reminded why I enjoy this hobby so much, and of the power of a good story (and a support network) in allowing us to embrace the best versions of ourselves.

My advice to anyone who typically doesn’t read this style of book is to stick with it - the story continues to grow and change as it unravels, and once you grasp what is going on you will inevitably be drawn into the magic that Lucy feels.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Library is one of those novels that feels like stepping into a sun‑dusted room and finding a story waiting just for you. It’s gentle, warm, and threaded with a kind of everyday magic — the sort that hides in memories, in unfinished manuscripts, in the quiet corners of a house that has loved generations of women.

Lucy Thomas arrives in Cornwall carrying grief, uncertainty, and the weight of an inheritance she doesn’t quite know how to hold. Her grandmother’s home — windswept, weathered, and filled with light — becomes the heart of the novel, and the library she discovers there is nothing short of enchanting. Sunlit shelves, a spiral staircase that seems to promise secrets, and a battered box of unfinished stories… it’s the kind of setting that makes you want to curl up and stay awhile.

What unfolds is a tender exploration of legacy and creativity. Lucy’s journey to honour her grandmother’s last wish — to finish what was left undone — becomes a quiet act of healing. The book celebrates the power of stories not as escapism, but as connection: between generations, between past and present, between who we were and who we might still become.

There’s a whisper of magic woven through the pages, subtle enough to feel believable, warm enough to feel comforting. It never overwhelms the narrative; instead, it lingers like a soft glow, reminding you that some stories don’t end — they simply wait for the right person to pick them up again.

This is a beautifully cozy, heart‑lifting read for anyone who has ever found solace in a book, or felt changed by a story at exactly the moment they needed it. A love letter to creativity, memory, and the quiet courage it takes to finish what someone else began. A gentle, luminous delight.

With thanks to Amanda James, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Emily Pankhurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rated 4.75/5

Netgalley Review

I was pleased to be accepted to read and review this book. The cover, title and blurb all grabbed my attention and I was excited to make a start on it.

The writing was engaging and gave the book a wonderfully cosy feeling. There were some emotional moments that gave the story real heart. The powerful message of belief shone through and made the overall story a heartwarming read.

The story opened with a Prologue and ended with an Epilogue which opened and closed the story well.

The chapters were long and sometimes split, which meant that you got a good chunk of the story before moving on.

There was a good flow between the chapters and it was easy to sit and read it for long periods of time.

There was a good pace to the book. Whilst we moved forwards well, there were a lot of extra details that slowed us down. These details added extra emotion and created the magical feel to the story. They allowed us to see the character better and to be reminded of the message of belief.

The characters were great. I loved following the main character around and was interested to see what was going to happen to her next. She was surrounded by characters who were strong and helped her to come to terms with everything. There were also some negative characters, which added a bit more emotion to the story!

Lastly the settings. They were wonderfully described and added extra magic to the story. I particularly enjoyed the way that the library became a character itself.

Overall a wonderfully heartwarming read that oozed cosy.

[Mara (tailsandtales.streetlibrary) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started and stopped this one more times than I can count while sitting beside my daughter’s hospital bed. After a week of hardcore adulting, mothering, and honestly just surviving, I needed something warm and comforting to disappear into. And right when I needed it most, this story unfolded with the loveliest reminder about embracing your inner child and finding magic again.

Lucy is a book editor who follows in her grandmother’s footsteps, not only in career but in her deep love of stories. When her grandmother passes away, Lucy inherits her seaside home in Cornwall, along with a collection of unfinished manuscripts and one final request: finish editing them.

What follows is this beautifully whimsical mix of mystery, romance, literary magic, and self-discovery. Watching Lucy slowly rediscover herself and uncover her own purpose was a delightful journey. The bookish magical realism felt like exactly the kind of escape my brain needed.

“And a good story is magical, uplifting. We need that escape. Yes, of course we have to come back to the real world, but the difference is, we’ll have a book inside us. Hope inside us. Characters who live with us, guide us through.”

This book felt like a warm cup of tea for the soul.

Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter Publishing for the ARC of The Secret Library by Amanda James in exchange for my honest review.

• magical realism
• cosy fantasy vibes
• seaside setting
• books about books
• healing journey
• mystery + romance
• embracing your inner child

[Janneke Merkens · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished this book with very mixed feelings, frustration but also admiration. Some parts where beautifully written and well thought out. The idea of stories that are lost and are waiting to be found by the right person is intriguing. It touches on how important books are;

‘If only for a little while. A good story is magical, uplifting. We need that escape. Yes, ofcourse we have to come back to the real world, but the difference is, we’ll have a book inside us. Hope inside us. Characters who live with us, guide us through. Help us become just that little bit stronger, so we can try and deal better with the next horror on the news that brings us to our knees.’

The library is every booklovers dream and the description made it come alive for me. As well as the description of the town and coastal feeling.
However there were moments where the behaviour of the main character made me sigh more often than wanting to root for them. The magical realism, which initially feels like one of the book’s most intriguing elements, unfortunately loses me and gets exaggerated, making them feel less like a natural extension of the world and more like a convenience for the plot.
Overall, the were parts of the story and the writing that where beautiful, but I don’t think this book was for me.

Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One more Chapter, Amanda James and Netgalley for the E-ARC.
3 stars🌟

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collin’s UK for this ARC.

I absolutely loved the Secret Library by Amanda James. This book was everything I wanted it to be – whimsical, happy, emotional, and just plain magical.

Lucy Thomas is a book editor based in London. Her grandmother was also a book editor and has a magical house in Cornwall. Lucy loved visiting her grandmother as a child, specifically because she had a wonderful library. Early in the novel, Lucy’s grandmother, Morwenna passes away. She leaves Lucy her house in her will. She also has an odd request. She asked Lucy to edit some unfinished manuscripts. Lucy is baffled by this request. The manuscripts were never finished by the author and many of them are on the older sides. The authors are either in old age or have die. However, Lucy is not about to disregard her grandmother’s final wish. She begins to edit the first manuscript and is amazed by what she finds. When she finishes her edits, the manuscript is magically finished. Not only that, Lucy starts to see the characters of the novel out in the real world. These characters help guide her on a quest to find herself.

This book is full of wonderful characters and has a happy ending. I would definitely recommend this story for individuals interested in romance, magic or just a feel good story.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy is an editor and when her gran passed away, she inherits her grandmother's house and within the house there is a library where the magic truly happens. Lucy gets left three manuscripts (her grandmother calls it 'The Lost Tomorrows') that had been unfinished by authors back in the 60s, 70s and 80s and because her grandmother believes she has it in her as an editor, she wanted her to help them finish the books. Whilst she works on her tasks, Lucy also explores a romance of her own with Jory.

Another great book written by Amanda James! I absolutely enjoyed reading her first book The Midnight Bookshop and to get early access to her next book was an absolute pleasure. I loved the author's writing style as the descriptive details were written well and it just made the reading flow smoothly. This book was such a magical experience for me and I was completely dived into the editing world of Lucy. The line that has stuck with me is "the best books of course have a wonderful story but importantly, they create characters that leap off the page. That's the magic. A good writer can make them come alive, become human, almost. They get under your skin, live in your heart and mind if you really get to know them well."

The other thing I loved in this book was the relationship between Lucy and her Grandmother, they have such a sweet family relationship and to know she still helps Lucy after she passed away was very touching.

If you want to read some heart-felt story that involves a magical library and some sweet romance in your life then this book is the one for you.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy of this book.

[Julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would like to thank HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Amanda James for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The pacing of this story is pretty straightforward and the plot itself is easy to follow, mixing light mystery, historical settings, and gentle romance. I thought the beginning was a little slow to take off but perhaps that was just my impatience.

The characters come across as simple but likeable. They don’t have deep layers, which I was disappointed with, but they’re warm enough to care about. Sadly for me the world building focuses more on atmosphere than detail. Each time period is sketched out clearly enough to picture, but strangely makes you feel more involved in these parts than the story itself. The library concept is the most interesting part, acting like a gateway that keeps the plot moving.

Overall, it’s a pleasant escape with a touch of magic rather than a deeply intense story which is unfortunate as a bit more feeling wouldn’t go amiss. Still an interesting concept and a quick read that unfortunately left little impression. I think the reason was that I found it difficult to connect with the characters and the world. It’s hard to explain but I felt like the book was just telling me about a series of events rather than telling a story, sorry..

[Myza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter Publishing for the ARC of The Secret Library by Amanda James in exchange for my honest review.

Lucy is a book editor who followed in her grandmother’s footsteps, not only in her career but also in her love of books. When her grandmother passes away, Lucy unexpectedly inherits her seaside home in Cornwall. Along with the house, she also inherits a collection of unfinished manuscripts and a final request.
She leaves a letter asking Lucy to finish editing them.

Determined to honor her grandmother’s wishes, Lucy begins working through the manuscripts only to discover that her grandmother may have left behind more than just stories. As Lucy edits, she begins to uncover some surprising (and magical) secrets.

This was a warm, uplifting read with a really lovely premise. I enjoyed the idea that stories and creativity can be a force for good in the world. While there were moments where some of the dialogue felt a little unusual, there is actually a reason for it that becomes clear later in the story (no spoilers!).

Overall, this was a positive, feel-good novel with a touch of magic, and I would definitely read more from Amanda James.

[Danique · Rating 4 out of 5]

The secret library is a warm and atmospheric story that blends family secrets, healing, and a touch of magical realism into a comforting read. The Cornish setting added so much charm, and the hidden library filled with unfinished stories created a cosy and mysterious atmosphere throughout the book.

I especially liked the emotional journey within the story, particularly the way Lucy slowly grows into herself. One of my favorite aspects was the idea that her grandmother's "rough diamonds" eventually became her own diamonds too. It was lovely way of showing growth, connection, and how we can come to value the things we once didn't fully understand.

There was some repetition in places, but personally I didn't mind it too much because it suited the reflective and comforting tone of the novel.

Overall, this was un uplifting and heartfelt read with likeable characters, emotional depth, and just enough magic woven into the story. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy cosy fiction, family mysteries and stories about self-discovery and second chances.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance copy.

[Keeley Ribchester · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ Whimsical, heartwarming, and full of bookish charm
I found The Secret Library to be a lovely, uplifting read filled with magic, imagination, and a deep love of books. It had such a warm and whimsical feel throughout.
Lucy and Morwenna were wonderful characters and I really enjoyed watching Lucy’s journey as she grew into herself and uncovered the secrets waiting for her. The library itself was easily the star of the story!! cosy, mysterious, and every book lover’s dream.
This is a story about family, friendship, second chances, and believing in something more. It’s gentle, comforting, and the kind of book that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and read all day.
A charming and enjoyable read that will especially appeal to anyone who loves stories about books and hidden magic.
Perfect for readers that enjoyed
The Lost Bookshop and The Midnight Library with the cosy charm of The Bookshop on the Corner.

[Angelina Titeryakova · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

As always, as spoiler free as possible.

I loved this so much! I am not a romance reader,nor a romantic person in general, but for some reason the at times cheesy love story in The Secret Library didn’t bother me at all and felt as part of the overall arc. I also tend to agree with one of the remarks made by one of the supporting characters, that this would make a great TV show or limited series.
I enjoyed the whole premise (magic, booksand a great story, what is there not to like) and as a scholar who's research interests include storytelling and as a person that uses said storytelling in my day life and job, I love that the book highlights how important it is.
Even the whole 'believe in youself' cheesy hocum felt right.

I would definitely recommend this book if you are searching for a cozy, feel-good read. I think I haven’t said 'aaaaw' this many times in quite a while.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some stories don't end. They wait to be found.... Book editor Lucy Thomas has just inherited her grandmother's windswept home, and with it, a library bathed in sunlight, a spiral staircase that leads to secrets, and a battered box filled with unfinished stories.... To honour her grandmother's last wish, Lucy must finish what was left undone - and discover the magic hiding between the lines.

This story has two of my favourite things - Cornwall and a story about books. The characters from the books that Lucy's grandmother left unfinished, literally came alive. The book uses magical realism that are twisted together through modern life, Lucy strives to honour her grandmother's last wish. This is a well-written story.

Published 4th June 2026

I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #AmandaJames for my ARC of #TheSecretLibrary in exchange for an honest review.

[Michele (michelethebookdragon) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one ticked quite a few boxes that I like in a book.

✅Magical realism
✅Secret library
✅Magic of books & stories
✅ Enigmatic characters

I enjoyed my time in Cornwall and getting to know Lucy and her grandmother Morwenna. Lucy has a special relationship with her grandmother that is strengthened by a mutual love of books, lively imaginations and a cheeky sense of humour.

When Morwenna dies and leaves the house to Lucy, she also leaves her a task of editing some unfinished stories from her Library of Lost Tomorrows. When Lucy edits these she is unprepared for what happens next. She really needs to give into her imagination as she did as a child.

This story was full of little life lessons and certainly had a theme of doing the right thing and being a agent of change.

I will always love a story about books, book magic, secret libraries and the beauty of unbridled imagination and this story was really lovely to read.

[Sarah Higginbottom · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚✨ *The Secret Library* by Amanda James ✨📚

This book felt like a warm hug AND a little bit of magic all at once 🥹💫

I’m such a sucker for books about books, and this one completely delivered. The atmosphere was so cosy and slightly mysterious, and I loved slowly uncovering everything alongside the characters. It’s not super fast-paced, but honestly that just made it even better to sink into ☁️📖

I got really attached to the characters and didn’t want to leave this world by the end 💔

If you love magical, comforting reads with a hint of mystery, definitely add this to your TBR ✨

📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Amanda James and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚

[Hayley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve read a few books by Amanda and have always really enjoyed them, this one was no exception. They are set in beautiful locations where you feel yourself transported to and wanting to be there, especially this one with such a beautiful library, I mean who wouldn’t want that in their house! Her characters are always loveable and you find yourself rooting for them. This book is full of magic, some of which you may find unbelievable, but that’s what this story is about and who doesn’t need a bit of magic in their lives. The book also brought back memories of my own Nan, who was an avid reader and used to take me to her library in the school holidays, thus starting my love of reading. I have, however, taken half a mark off this time as I felt the march in London was a bit too political for this book and during these times and I personally felt it didn’t add anything to Aisha’s story, which was a completely different situation. Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK / One More Chapter for letting me read and review this book. 3.5 ⭐️

[Jo Wyld · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love a cosy romance with a bookish storyline plus a wee bit of magic then this is for you!!

Lucy has just inherited her grandmother's beautiful cornish home which includes a stunning library. This was always Lucy favourite place as a child and whilst she's struggling with the loss of her grandmother she is delighted to be able to protect her lovely home and library.

Though Lucy soon learns that her grandmother's home isnt all she inherited, she has a magical skill that allows her to edit incomplete books from the past and send them back to the author for completion.

These books are so powerfully written that the characters could almost be alive....

And then there's Jory the man Lucy is meant to be with and he has some amazing bookish skills too!

[Karis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!

This book is filled with a quiet sweetness that settles in the soul, offering a gentle refuge where every page feels like coming home. A magical book fit for readers, dreamers, and editors alike!

Lucy is an editor that inherits a house with the library any reader dreams about. That library is magical and she is able to connect with her late Grandmother who leaves her with a task—to edit diamond in the rough pages by three past authors. What happens next is nothing but fantastical, with a detailed setting, supportive cast of characters, and just the right life changing moments Lucy changes lives including her own to be right where they are needed most. ✨

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for the eARC. The Secret Library is a cozy book about following your dreams and the magic of stories. It also dives into how seemingly little things can make a large positive impact on the world and how everyone can make an impact in their own way.

I enjoyed reading this book and liked the positive messages woven throughout the story. I teared up a few times due to the well written relationships between the characters.

There were a few times I felt like the book was dragging on a little bit, but those moments were short lived.

Overall, if you're looking for a book with some positive messaging and a pretty cozy vibe, I would recommend you pick this book up.

[Gold Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Library is a refreshing, unique story following an editor who gives the writers back their lost tomorrows. Her grief from losing her Gran is intertwined with magical realism and fantastical elements to form a beautiful story of hope, romance and goodness.

The cover is gorgeous and really draws the reader in to the mystery left behind by Lucy's Gran when she died. The writing style is unusual but keeps the reader interested and intrigued, whilst helping them to experience the narrative alongside Lucy. I loved the cast of characters, and felt that it made a really sweet, loving found family.

Thank you to NetGalley, Amanda James and One More Chapter for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Heather Howarth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I could not decide what I thought about this novel - I liked the concept but I am not sure it quite worked for me.

Lucy Thomas, an editor like her grandmother, inherits her home and library on her death as well as a request to edit three unfinished manuscripts.

As she works through these, she finds that her edits bring characters to life and change the course of the authors’ lives. She has also inherited a magical gift from her grandmother where stories she finds can be used to change lives and resonate with people.

Added to this magical realism is a romance between Lucy and one of her authors. She has previously struggled to make good relationship choices and is uncertain whether or not she can trust her instincts. With frequent flashbacks to her childhood with her grandparents and ongoing conversations with them, Lucy manages to make a new life for herself as well as continuing her grandmother’s legacy.

A lovely tale if a little too magical for me!

[El · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this novel.

This book was really captivating! It definitely had me hooked from the beginning and the concept is very unique. This is a cozy story about a woman who is working as an editor, following in her beloved grandmother's footsteps. When her grandmother passes away, she finds she has inherited the estate! As the main character deals with her grief, she finds herself dealing with magic she hadn't anticipated.

I very much enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a cozy, lighthearted, and hopeful story to read with a mug of tea!

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I had high hopes for this book, I was not able to connect with the characters well. The conversations often felt stilted to me and I couldn't get over the decision to start calling her grandmother by her given name instead of any one of the pseudonyms we often give, like gran, grandma, granny, etc.

Regardless of this, I found the scene descriptions were well written and I was able to clearly visualize each throughout the story. I also enjoyed the analogies and metaphors that Amanda James uses. The book did take a while to start picking up.

All in all, this is a cozy read and I believe many will enjoy it.

[Patricia Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with most of Amanda James's books this one is full of magic. Not fairies and dragons but in this case the magic of books. A magic I think most readers believe in. Lucy's story is full of feel good factor while having me reaching for the tissues several times. A beautiful story that I think any bibliophile will identify with wholeheartedly as their ideal world. The characters jump of the page as does the beautiful Cornish scenery. Recommended if you require the ideal escape from real life for a few hours.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Description
Some stories don't end. They wait to be found…Book editor Lucy Thomas has just inherited her grandmother’s windswept Cornish home, and with it, a library bathed in sunlight, a spiral staircase that leads to secrets, and a battered box filled with unfinished stories…

The Secret Library is a magical adventure in a world of fantasy. You're not just reading a book. You are a part of the book. Its like a huge from a book with a sprinkle of fairy dust.

Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Get your copy June 4 2026