What do you think?
Rate this book
The Little Porto Book Club: The perfect heart-warming, cosy bookish rom-com to fall in love with this autumn, brand-new for 2026! Perfect for fans of Laurie Gilmore, Portia Macintosh and Jo Thomas
Introvert and self-described whodunnit enthusiast Viviane has never much believed in living life outside of the pages of a book. But when her interfering mother insists that Viviane needs some friends who
aren’t
fictional, she decides to head into the beautiful bustling streets of Porto in search of her community.
What better place to start than by reading her favourite mystery in the corner of a little-known café? But when one, then two, and then outrageously six other people decide to join her silent book club Viviane realises that she is firmly out of her depth. There’s Thomas, a middle-aged man hiding his love for romance novels, Lucinda, a chic sixty-something with a penchant for Christie, and then there’s Tiago, the hot alpha male of every romance novelist’s dreams.
But when one of these newfound friends disappears from the book club without a word, will the community come together to find their fellow lost soul, and will Viviane find love along the way…?
What better place to start than by reading her favourite mystery in the corner of a little-known café? But when one, then two, and then outrageously six other people decide to join her silent book club Viviane realises that she is firmly out of her depth. There’s Thomas, a middle-aged man hiding his love for romance novels, Lucinda, a chic sixty-something with a penchant for Christie, and then there’s Tiago, the hot alpha male of every romance novelist’s dreams.
But when one of these newfound friends disappears from the book club without a word, will the community come together to find their fellow lost soul, and will Viviane find love along the way…?
352 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 22, 2026
4 🌟
Cute, fun at times a little boring but still entertaining.
Cute, fun at times a little boring but still entertaining.
August 13, 2026
Rebecca Raisin’s The Little Porto Book Club is a lovely story that combines books, friendship, a little mystery, and a sweet romance set in sunny Portugal.
In an effort to placate her mother’s anxiety about her lack of social life since their relocation from London, copy editor Viviane Alvarez reluctantly agrees to spend one hour a week at a cafe. Finding a quiet pastelaria away from the busier tourist areas of Porto, Viviane settles in with a book featuring her favourite fictional detective only to be interrupted by another fan. Despite her reservations she allows him to join her, under strict conditions, accidentally starting a reading club among an eclectic assortment of Pastelaria Historia patrons, who slowly become friends.
Viviane is an interesting character. Though it’s never specified, she clearly demonstrates traits attributed to being on the Autism Spectrum in that she is socially awkward, literal, and prefers a strict routine. Viviane is also grieving her late father and coming to terms with his rather messy legacy which prompted the move to Porto with her mother. Largely content to be alone, Viviane generally prefers fictional characters to real people, so it’s heartwarming to witness the blossoming of her relationships with the members of the book club and how their easy acceptance expands her world. Viviane’s slow romance with Tiago is particularly sweet.
The cafe patrons that join Viviane are a little eccentric, each of them have a distinct personality, and a particular reason to become involved. I liked the way the story gives us glimpses into the lives of the book club members beyond their meetings, adding some depth to their characters.
Raisin weaves a gentle mystery through the story when one of Viviane’s new friend’s suddenly disappears, prompting Viviane, eager for the chance to imitate her fictional idol, to persuade the group to put their collective sleuthing skills to work. It adds a little drama to the plot, especially when Viviane gets a bit carried away with her speculation.
With the focus on the importance of connection and finding your people, The Little Porto Book Club offers light-hearted escape with plenty of heart, making this an easy read.
In an effort to placate her mother’s anxiety about her lack of social life since their relocation from London, copy editor Viviane Alvarez reluctantly agrees to spend one hour a week at a cafe. Finding a quiet pastelaria away from the busier tourist areas of Porto, Viviane settles in with a book featuring her favourite fictional detective only to be interrupted by another fan. Despite her reservations she allows him to join her, under strict conditions, accidentally starting a reading club among an eclectic assortment of Pastelaria Historia patrons, who slowly become friends.
Viviane is an interesting character. Though it’s never specified, she clearly demonstrates traits attributed to being on the Autism Spectrum in that she is socially awkward, literal, and prefers a strict routine. Viviane is also grieving her late father and coming to terms with his rather messy legacy which prompted the move to Porto with her mother. Largely content to be alone, Viviane generally prefers fictional characters to real people, so it’s heartwarming to witness the blossoming of her relationships with the members of the book club and how their easy acceptance expands her world. Viviane’s slow romance with Tiago is particularly sweet.
The cafe patrons that join Viviane are a little eccentric, each of them have a distinct personality, and a particular reason to become involved. I liked the way the story gives us glimpses into the lives of the book club members beyond their meetings, adding some depth to their characters.
Raisin weaves a gentle mystery through the story when one of Viviane’s new friend’s suddenly disappears, prompting Viviane, eager for the chance to imitate her fictional idol, to persuade the group to put their collective sleuthing skills to work. It adds a little drama to the plot, especially when Viviane gets a bit carried away with her speculation.
With the focus on the importance of connection and finding your people, The Little Porto Book Club offers light-hearted escape with plenty of heart, making this an easy read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4/5 ✨
Review of Advance Copy Received from NetGalley
So many assumptions, so little information, so much chaos
This was actually one of the funniest things I’ve read in so long. Literally just a group of introverts who start a “silent reading club” and then try to apply what they read to the real world. Unreal.
The nods to Portugal and Portuguese culture were astounding, I really feel like the author put time into looking at the actual traditional culture of the country.
I will say, at times I found it hard to keep up with the FMC’s internal monologue; however the plot and “gotcha” moments really manage to balance this out. If you’re looking for a rom-com with a little bit mystery/whodunit, this book is perfect.
Tropes
~ Found Family
~ Neurodivergent FMC
~ Mystery x Rom-com
A special thank you to Rebecca Raisin, HQ Digital, and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of Advance Copy Received from NetGalley
So many assumptions, so little information, so much chaos
This was actually one of the funniest things I’ve read in so long. Literally just a group of introverts who start a “silent reading club” and then try to apply what they read to the real world. Unreal.
The nods to Portugal and Portuguese culture were astounding, I really feel like the author put time into looking at the actual traditional culture of the country.
I will say, at times I found it hard to keep up with the FMC’s internal monologue; however the plot and “gotcha” moments really manage to balance this out. If you’re looking for a rom-com with a little bit mystery/whodunit, this book is perfect.
Tropes
~ Found Family
~ Neurodivergent FMC
~ Mystery x Rom-com
A special thank you to Rebecca Raisin, HQ Digital, and NetGalley for this ARC.
August 9, 2026
I mentioned in a previous review that I have sensed a subtle shift in Rebecca’s writing, and The Little Porto Book Club felt like a breath of fresh air. Rebecca Raisin had no need to change her style, but it’s always fun to see authors evolve as they perfect their craft.
When we meet Viviane, it soon becomes clear that she is nursing a deep-seated pain which she has no desire to share with anyone, maybe because that would mean analysing her issues and revisiting the pain which she has endured. Having returned to Portugal with her mother after a bereavement, she is intent on living in the world she has created for herself and her love of a mystery author. As a self-confessed bookaholic, I can completely understand the desire to immerse myself in a literary escape. However, Viviane’s world is more complex than just reading; she is painfully introverted and craves solitude to the exclusion of daily life. Her work as a book editor sees all aspects of each day being spent with the written word. It’s no surprise that her mother worries.
I’ve never visited Porto but have explored a large part of the Algarve and travelled as far as Lisbon. So, the descriptions of the local area felt familiar, and I was comforted by the author's sense of place. I may not agree with Viviane’s opinion on Pastels de Nata, but she was right about the joys of finding a Pastelaria hidden off the beaten track. I could almost smell the caramelised sugar and the foamy coffee.
The formation of a book club may not have been intentional, but the group which formed brought some very special characters, and I loved each one of them. They may have been an eclectic mix, but their camaraderie became precious. Together, their meetings created a wonderful community, and their adventures had me smiling as I turned the pages. As for Tiago, I will leave readers to discover how marvellous he is.
This is a gentle story and a tribute to the comfort found in reading. I recently discovered the joy of silent reading. It didn’t make sense to me until I tried it; I’m now a fan. I loved this book, and I was thrilled to be back among the pages of a favourite author. Highly recommended.
When we meet Viviane, it soon becomes clear that she is nursing a deep-seated pain which she has no desire to share with anyone, maybe because that would mean analysing her issues and revisiting the pain which she has endured. Having returned to Portugal with her mother after a bereavement, she is intent on living in the world she has created for herself and her love of a mystery author. As a self-confessed bookaholic, I can completely understand the desire to immerse myself in a literary escape. However, Viviane’s world is more complex than just reading; she is painfully introverted and craves solitude to the exclusion of daily life. Her work as a book editor sees all aspects of each day being spent with the written word. It’s no surprise that her mother worries.
I’ve never visited Porto but have explored a large part of the Algarve and travelled as far as Lisbon. So, the descriptions of the local area felt familiar, and I was comforted by the author's sense of place. I may not agree with Viviane’s opinion on Pastels de Nata, but she was right about the joys of finding a Pastelaria hidden off the beaten track. I could almost smell the caramelised sugar and the foamy coffee.
The formation of a book club may not have been intentional, but the group which formed brought some very special characters, and I loved each one of them. They may have been an eclectic mix, but their camaraderie became precious. Together, their meetings created a wonderful community, and their adventures had me smiling as I turned the pages. As for Tiago, I will leave readers to discover how marvellous he is.
This is a gentle story and a tribute to the comfort found in reading. I recently discovered the joy of silent reading. It didn’t make sense to me until I tried it; I’m now a fan. I loved this book, and I was thrilled to be back among the pages of a favourite author. Highly recommended.
August 11, 2026
This book is an absolute delight—a cozy, feel-good story that perfectly captures the magic of books and the unexpected connections they can create. Filled with warmth, humor, and just the right touch of mystery, it’s the kind of novel that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the final page.
Viviane is a wonderfully relatable heroine, especially for anyone who feels more comfortable with fictional characters than real-life social situations. Her journey from solitude to discovering friendship and confidence is heartfelt, authentic, and incredibly rewarding. The introvert representation feels genuine, making her personal growth all the more meaningful.
The supporting cast is equally charming, with each member of the silent book club bringing their own quirks, personalities, and love of reading to the story. Together, they create a beautiful found family that is impossible not to fall in love with. The romance is sweet and uplifting, perfectly complementing the story without overshadowing its deeper themes of belonging and self-discovery.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Porto, the novel beautifully captures the city’s charm, making the setting feel like another beloved character. The cafés, streets, and atmosphere add an extra layer of coziness that book lovers will adore.
With its lovable characters, bookish charm, gentle mystery, and heartfelt message about stepping outside your comfort zone, this is a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys uplifting contemporary fiction. If you love stories about found family, slow-burn romance, and the joy of sharing books with others, this novel deserves a place on your bookshelf.
A beautifully comforting read that reminds us sometimes the best stories begin when we finally step outside the pages of our favorite books.
Viviane is a wonderfully relatable heroine, especially for anyone who feels more comfortable with fictional characters than real-life social situations. Her journey from solitude to discovering friendship and confidence is heartfelt, authentic, and incredibly rewarding. The introvert representation feels genuine, making her personal growth all the more meaningful.
The supporting cast is equally charming, with each member of the silent book club bringing their own quirks, personalities, and love of reading to the story. Together, they create a beautiful found family that is impossible not to fall in love with. The romance is sweet and uplifting, perfectly complementing the story without overshadowing its deeper themes of belonging and self-discovery.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Porto, the novel beautifully captures the city’s charm, making the setting feel like another beloved character. The cafés, streets, and atmosphere add an extra layer of coziness that book lovers will adore.
With its lovable characters, bookish charm, gentle mystery, and heartfelt message about stepping outside your comfort zone, this is a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys uplifting contemporary fiction. If you love stories about found family, slow-burn romance, and the joy of sharing books with others, this novel deserves a place on your bookshelf.
A beautifully comforting read that reminds us sometimes the best stories begin when we finally step outside the pages of our favorite books.
August 26, 2026
I was so excited to get another Rebecca Raisin book to read, and I loved it. It has a slightly different feel from her previous novels — less focus on environmental themes — but the characterisation is absolutely incredible. She creates people you instantly care about, and this story is full of that trademark warmth, charm and emotional depth that make her books such a joy.
Viviane appears to be very neurodiverse, and her mother worries about her lack of friends and her difficulty socialising. But when Viviane steps into a small coffee shop in Porto, she has no idea she’s about to spark a silent book club — or find a group of people who will quickly become friends. As the saying goes, every pot has its lid, and this quirky little circle fits together perfectly, each able to be fully themselves in each other’s company. The first person Viviane meets is Tiago, a handsome, nerdy tech entrepreneur who strikes up a conversation when he spots the murder mystery she’s reading — his favourite author too. No sooner has the silent book club grown to six than one of their number goes missing, and the group becomes convinced murder is afoot, setting out to solve the mystery together.
It’s an utterly charming and surprisingly amusing story, full of quirky characters, gentle chaos and the kind of offbeat moments that make Rebecca Raisin’s books such a joy. The blend of friendship, mystery and neurodiverse representation is handled with real warmth, and the silent book club’s antics had me smiling throughout. It’s heartfelt, funny and beautifully written — a gorgeous read.
Viviane appears to be very neurodiverse, and her mother worries about her lack of friends and her difficulty socialising. But when Viviane steps into a small coffee shop in Porto, she has no idea she’s about to spark a silent book club — or find a group of people who will quickly become friends. As the saying goes, every pot has its lid, and this quirky little circle fits together perfectly, each able to be fully themselves in each other’s company. The first person Viviane meets is Tiago, a handsome, nerdy tech entrepreneur who strikes up a conversation when he spots the murder mystery she’s reading — his favourite author too. No sooner has the silent book club grown to six than one of their number goes missing, and the group becomes convinced murder is afoot, setting out to solve the mystery together.
It’s an utterly charming and surprisingly amusing story, full of quirky characters, gentle chaos and the kind of offbeat moments that make Rebecca Raisin’s books such a joy. The blend of friendship, mystery and neurodiverse representation is handled with real warmth, and the silent book club’s antics had me smiling throughout. It’s heartfelt, funny and beautifully written — a gorgeous read.
August 17, 2026
I loved the cover and premise for this book. A silent book club for introverts with coffee and cake, I'm in.
I loved the setting of Porto and enjoyed the author's descriptions of the area and food.
Despite having read this author's books before and really enjoyed them, I struggled with this one. At one point I didn't think I'd finish it.
I really struggled with the main character Viviane and did not take to her at all. I felt the first half was extremely slow and Viviane's internal monologues started to irk me.
The other book club members certainly were a quirky bunch and I enjoyed the little paragraphs about them but would have liked a little more. I think my favourite was Tiago, he was so sweet.
I will say that I am glad I persevered as I felt the book picked up when they started investigating. I also liked the twist at the end, I didn't see that coming.
It is a book about being different, friendships and finding your tribe/place in life.
I loved the setting of Porto and enjoyed the author's descriptions of the area and food.
Despite having read this author's books before and really enjoyed them, I struggled with this one. At one point I didn't think I'd finish it.
I really struggled with the main character Viviane and did not take to her at all. I felt the first half was extremely slow and Viviane's internal monologues started to irk me.
The other book club members certainly were a quirky bunch and I enjoyed the little paragraphs about them but would have liked a little more. I think my favourite was Tiago, he was so sweet.
I will say that I am glad I persevered as I felt the book picked up when they started investigating. I also liked the twist at the end, I didn't see that coming.
It is a book about being different, friendships and finding your tribe/place in life.
August 14, 2026
Whereas it sure is charming to be reading a book from a Portuguese author, set in a Portuguese city (Porto), when vacationing in Portugal yourself, I really should’ve chosen something other than this airport novel. Too bad.
July 28, 2026
The Little Porto Book Club is a page-turning whodunit about a quirky group of readers and their silent book club.
Viviane is a copy editor and prefers to spend her free time within the pages of whodunit books. Her mother insists that she get out of the house and make friends who aren’t fictional. Reluctantly, she takes her favorite mystery and heads out to an off-the-beaten-path cafe. Much to her chagrin, a stranger engages her in conversation about the book she’s reading. Soon, they attract the attention of other lone readers and decide to start a silent reading club. Viviane’s mother is thrilled to hear she’s making friends, but Viviane is not exactly comfortable with the development. After a few meetings, one of the members mysteriously disappears, and Viviane is eager to solve this real-life mystery using all the skills she’s learned from her favorite fictional detective.
Do you love a cast of colorful characters? A group of die-hard introverts with overactive imaginations starts a book club. What could go wrong?
We become acquainted with each of the colorful characters in the Little Porto Book Club, and each one has strengths that will help solve the case of the missing member. One of the members is handsome Tiago, a romance reader’s dreamy hero. Is the book-club-members-to-more trope a possibility for Viviane and Tiago?
Are you looking for meta content, humor, romance, quirky characters, Portugal settings, or books about books/book clubs? You will find all of these elements in The Little Porto Book Club. The author writes a mystery about a character whose favorite genre is mystery, and her book club attempts to solve a real-life mystery. Mystery tropes abound, as does the humor. The characters are colorful, quirky, and likable. I promise that you will enjoy the book talk, the Porto setting, the Portuguese culture, and the food. Fans of sweet romance will appreciate the slow-burn friends-to-more trope.
Do you follow this popular author? I frequently pick up books by Rebecca Raisin, a trusted author in my reading experience. My favorite to date is Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel. Have you tried a book by this author? Do you have a favorite?
Fans of Rebecca Raisin, books about books, and/or Portugal will want to add this new release to their TBRs. Filled with humor and colorful characters, The Little Porto Book Club kept me quickly turning the pages and trying to predict what would happen next.
Thanks #NetGalley @HQStories for a complimentary eARC of #TheLittlePortoBookClub upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Viviane is a copy editor and prefers to spend her free time within the pages of whodunit books. Her mother insists that she get out of the house and make friends who aren’t fictional. Reluctantly, she takes her favorite mystery and heads out to an off-the-beaten-path cafe. Much to her chagrin, a stranger engages her in conversation about the book she’s reading. Soon, they attract the attention of other lone readers and decide to start a silent reading club. Viviane’s mother is thrilled to hear she’s making friends, but Viviane is not exactly comfortable with the development. After a few meetings, one of the members mysteriously disappears, and Viviane is eager to solve this real-life mystery using all the skills she’s learned from her favorite fictional detective.
Do you love a cast of colorful characters? A group of die-hard introverts with overactive imaginations starts a book club. What could go wrong?
We become acquainted with each of the colorful characters in the Little Porto Book Club, and each one has strengths that will help solve the case of the missing member. One of the members is handsome Tiago, a romance reader’s dreamy hero. Is the book-club-members-to-more trope a possibility for Viviane and Tiago?
Are you looking for meta content, humor, romance, quirky characters, Portugal settings, or books about books/book clubs? You will find all of these elements in The Little Porto Book Club. The author writes a mystery about a character whose favorite genre is mystery, and her book club attempts to solve a real-life mystery. Mystery tropes abound, as does the humor. The characters are colorful, quirky, and likable. I promise that you will enjoy the book talk, the Porto setting, the Portuguese culture, and the food. Fans of sweet romance will appreciate the slow-burn friends-to-more trope.
Do you follow this popular author? I frequently pick up books by Rebecca Raisin, a trusted author in my reading experience. My favorite to date is Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel. Have you tried a book by this author? Do you have a favorite?
Fans of Rebecca Raisin, books about books, and/or Portugal will want to add this new release to their TBRs. Filled with humor and colorful characters, The Little Porto Book Club kept me quickly turning the pages and trying to predict what would happen next.
Thanks #NetGalley @HQStories for a complimentary eARC of #TheLittlePortoBookClub upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
May 15, 2026
This was slightly different to the other books of Rebecca’s I have read but cleverly written and enjoyable.
I enjoyed the characters that the book club had and liked that every now and then there was a mini chapter on each book club member so you could see things going on in their lives behind the book club and mystery sleuthing. At first I found Viviane hard to relate to but then after a chapter or two she became her our quirky character which was enjoyable.
Overall an enjoyable mystery-esque story with an underlying sprinkle of romance a lovely, lighthearted story.
I enjoyed the characters that the book club had and liked that every now and then there was a mini chapter on each book club member so you could see things going on in their lives behind the book club and mystery sleuthing. At first I found Viviane hard to relate to but then after a chapter or two she became her our quirky character which was enjoyable.
Overall an enjoyable mystery-esque story with an underlying sprinkle of romance a lovely, lighthearted story.
July 25, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley.
I LOVE this book!
Thank you so much Rebecca Raisin for another fantastic adventure to someplace new. I feel like I have been on vacation to Porto and I’ve made many new friends. I’m sad that I have finished reading the book as I feel like I’ve had to say goodbye.
The Little Porto Book Club has it all, fantastic characters, beautiful scenery, a meet cute and more than one mystery. Vivian’s is my new favorite amateur sleuth.
I LOVE this book!
Thank you so much Rebecca Raisin for another fantastic adventure to someplace new. I feel like I have been on vacation to Porto and I’ve made many new friends. I’m sad that I have finished reading the book as I feel like I’ve had to say goodbye.
The Little Porto Book Club has it all, fantastic characters, beautiful scenery, a meet cute and more than one mystery. Vivian’s is my new favorite amateur sleuth.
August 12, 2026
Funny, warm and wonderfully full of heart
Rebecca Raisin has always been one of my go-to authors for feel-good, witty reads, but The Little Porto Book Club is something else. This one is FUNNY. Properly, laugh-out-loud funny. And much of that is thanks to the wonderfully quirky and delightfully unaware Viviane.
Viviane was easily one of my favourite things about this book. She misses social cues, sees the world in her own particular way and often has absolutely no idea how funny she is. She is also a very straight talker, doesn't lie and loves her set routines. I personally read her as possibly neurodivergent, although this is never given a label or diagnosis in the book. What mattered far more was the way the people who love her understand her. They make room for the things she needs without trying to change her. There is something genuinely lovely about watching a character be accepted exactly as she is.
And then there is the introvert book club. Why does this not exist everywhere? A book club where you can turn up, read your own book quietly in the company of other readers and not have to make conversation? SIGN ME UP. I loved the whole idea, and by the end I desperately wanted Tiago's app to exist too. Rebecca Raisin may have accidentally created something the real world now needs to provide.
As the little group grows, so does the wonderful sense of community around Viviane. I loved the friendships, the relationships and the way these initially separate lives gradually became entwined. There is romance here, but there are so many different kinds of love running through the story that the whole thing feels much richer than a straightforward romance.
I also had enormous fun spotting the Easter eggs from Rebecca Raisin's other books. They are cleverly done, with descriptions of familiar scenes rather than simply dropping book titles into the story. Recognising a flea market in Paris and realising exactly what I was reading was such a lovely little reward for longtime readers. I also guessed the mystery surrounding the exclusive author almost from the very beginning, although that didn't lessen my enjoyment of watching it unfold.
Underneath all the humour there are some genuinely emotional themes too, particularly around grief, family and finding people who understand you. Raisin manages to move between the funny and the poignant without either feeling out of place.
I expected The Little Porto Book Club to be warm and uplifting because that's what Rebecca Raisin does so well. I didn't expect Viviane to make me laugh quite as much as she did, or to become so invested in this lovely, slightly unconventional little community.
Five very happy stars, and I would like my membership card for the introvert book club immediately, please.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book to review.
Rebecca Raisin has always been one of my go-to authors for feel-good, witty reads, but The Little Porto Book Club is something else. This one is FUNNY. Properly, laugh-out-loud funny. And much of that is thanks to the wonderfully quirky and delightfully unaware Viviane.
Viviane was easily one of my favourite things about this book. She misses social cues, sees the world in her own particular way and often has absolutely no idea how funny she is. She is also a very straight talker, doesn't lie and loves her set routines. I personally read her as possibly neurodivergent, although this is never given a label or diagnosis in the book. What mattered far more was the way the people who love her understand her. They make room for the things she needs without trying to change her. There is something genuinely lovely about watching a character be accepted exactly as she is.
And then there is the introvert book club. Why does this not exist everywhere? A book club where you can turn up, read your own book quietly in the company of other readers and not have to make conversation? SIGN ME UP. I loved the whole idea, and by the end I desperately wanted Tiago's app to exist too. Rebecca Raisin may have accidentally created something the real world now needs to provide.
As the little group grows, so does the wonderful sense of community around Viviane. I loved the friendships, the relationships and the way these initially separate lives gradually became entwined. There is romance here, but there are so many different kinds of love running through the story that the whole thing feels much richer than a straightforward romance.
I also had enormous fun spotting the Easter eggs from Rebecca Raisin's other books. They are cleverly done, with descriptions of familiar scenes rather than simply dropping book titles into the story. Recognising a flea market in Paris and realising exactly what I was reading was such a lovely little reward for longtime readers. I also guessed the mystery surrounding the exclusive author almost from the very beginning, although that didn't lessen my enjoyment of watching it unfold.
Underneath all the humour there are some genuinely emotional themes too, particularly around grief, family and finding people who understand you. Raisin manages to move between the funny and the poignant without either feeling out of place.
I expected The Little Porto Book Club to be warm and uplifting because that's what Rebecca Raisin does so well. I didn't expect Viviane to make me laugh quite as much as she did, or to become so invested in this lovely, slightly unconventional little community.
Five very happy stars, and I would like my membership card for the introvert book club immediately, please.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book to review.
August 18, 2026
The Little porto book club by Rebecca Raisin is heartwarming, fun and cosy read. I enjoyed the setting and characters so much that at one point I felt like joining this little club. The writing style was witty, humourous and sarcastic that at times I laughed a lot. The plot was intriguing and I was hooked from the start to explore each and every character. Some books change your perception about reading and life and this is one such book.
The main lead, vivianne was just amazing, her character was unapologetic and she always spoke her mind. I loved reading her POV, as an introvert and book lover, one can relate to her a lot. She was caring and had her own way of protecting people. She is one of the best female leads I read. I loved reading about her relationship with her mother. Their conversations were humorous and their dynamic was unique. The way Vivianne led the whole book club with her rules and her organisation skills while solving this mystery were commendable. She was curious and enthusiastic in the whole story. I loved how she stood by her principles throughout the whole book.
The character Tiago as a male lead was lovable. He came across as a soft and innocent person. He is a person who is too good for this cruel world. He was always there for Vivianne as a friend and partner (sidekick). The relationship growth between them was exceptional and his love for Vivianne was pure and unconditional. I loved all the chaos of their relationship and at the end it made me smile a lot.
The other members of the club were interesting and every one was unique in their own way. Everyone had their own skills of solving this unique mystery.I loved the character of Zephyr as Gen z and it came across as relatable. The rivalry between boomer and genz was interesting to read and the relationship dynamic between Albert and Zephyr was heartwarming to read. At times the story got emotional also. I was totally hooked in solving this mystery along with the book club members.
Overall, I enjoyed this story a lot and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about books inside the book with a dash of mystery going around.
Thank you for the ARC!!
The main lead, vivianne was just amazing, her character was unapologetic and she always spoke her mind. I loved reading her POV, as an introvert and book lover, one can relate to her a lot. She was caring and had her own way of protecting people. She is one of the best female leads I read. I loved reading about her relationship with her mother. Their conversations were humorous and their dynamic was unique. The way Vivianne led the whole book club with her rules and her organisation skills while solving this mystery were commendable. She was curious and enthusiastic in the whole story. I loved how she stood by her principles throughout the whole book.
The character Tiago as a male lead was lovable. He came across as a soft and innocent person. He is a person who is too good for this cruel world. He was always there for Vivianne as a friend and partner (sidekick). The relationship growth between them was exceptional and his love for Vivianne was pure and unconditional. I loved all the chaos of their relationship and at the end it made me smile a lot.
The other members of the club were interesting and every one was unique in their own way. Everyone had their own skills of solving this unique mystery.I loved the character of Zephyr as Gen z and it came across as relatable. The rivalry between boomer and genz was interesting to read and the relationship dynamic between Albert and Zephyr was heartwarming to read. At times the story got emotional also. I was totally hooked in solving this mystery along with the book club members.
Overall, I enjoyed this story a lot and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about books inside the book with a dash of mystery going around.
Thank you for the ARC!!
August 25, 2026
Rebecca Raisin is an author of contemporary feel-good novels. *The Little Porto Bookclub* is her latest book, set in Porto.
Vivianne is an introvert. She struggles with social interactions and has no filter; she speaks her mind and takes what others say literally, which frequently lands her in trouble. She prefers reading above all else, with the *The Quill Chronicles* series—featuring protagonist Amber Quill—being her favorite. After her mother sends her out of the house, Vivianne settles into a quiet café to read, only to be interrupted by Tiago, a fellow reader. This sparks the formation of a silent book club that soon expands into a group of six. It doesn't stay quiet for long, however, once they start discussing books. They discover that they are all something of a misfit and that they get along remarkably well. When one of the members goes missing, they set out to investigate—channeling their inner Amber Quill.
What a delightful story. The character of Vivianne is so well portrayed. She has a heart of gold but doesn't quite grasp social interactions, which has made her insecure. She has also lost faith in people after discovering that her late father was leading a secret second life. Vivianne is full of doubts, yet also full of energy—something Tiago notices. The ‘he falls first’ trope is beautifully executed, and the way he goes out of his way for her is heartwarming.
The story is told from Vivianne’s perspective, which works well. However, the other book club members also get a voice in short chapters, revealing more about their backgrounds. Each of them has their own demons. It is lovely to see how the silent book club helps them and how they come together to form a close-knit group.
There is a romantic element too, but it plays out a little differently because Vivianne completely misses the usual hints—leading to some amusing situations.
Raisin brings Porto and her characters to life with her own highly engaging writing style. It is a smooth read with perfect pacing, and the choice of a neurodivergent protagonist makes for a wonderful feel-good story.
Vivianne is an introvert. She struggles with social interactions and has no filter; she speaks her mind and takes what others say literally, which frequently lands her in trouble. She prefers reading above all else, with the *The Quill Chronicles* series—featuring protagonist Amber Quill—being her favorite. After her mother sends her out of the house, Vivianne settles into a quiet café to read, only to be interrupted by Tiago, a fellow reader. This sparks the formation of a silent book club that soon expands into a group of six. It doesn't stay quiet for long, however, once they start discussing books. They discover that they are all something of a misfit and that they get along remarkably well. When one of the members goes missing, they set out to investigate—channeling their inner Amber Quill.
What a delightful story. The character of Vivianne is so well portrayed. She has a heart of gold but doesn't quite grasp social interactions, which has made her insecure. She has also lost faith in people after discovering that her late father was leading a secret second life. Vivianne is full of doubts, yet also full of energy—something Tiago notices. The ‘he falls first’ trope is beautifully executed, and the way he goes out of his way for her is heartwarming.
The story is told from Vivianne’s perspective, which works well. However, the other book club members also get a voice in short chapters, revealing more about their backgrounds. Each of them has their own demons. It is lovely to see how the silent book club helps them and how they come together to form a close-knit group.
There is a romantic element too, but it plays out a little differently because Vivianne completely misses the usual hints—leading to some amusing situations.
Raisin brings Porto and her characters to life with her own highly engaging writing style. It is a smooth read with perfect pacing, and the choice of a neurodivergent protagonist makes for a wonderful feel-good story.
September 8, 2026
Escapist, enjoyable and utterly exquisite, The Little Porto Book Club is the gorgeous new novel from the always fabulous Rebecca Raisin.
Introverted Viviane loves nothing more than losing herself between the pages of a juicy whodunnit. Viviane would much rather spend her days curled up with a good book than hanging out with her friends and socialising. However, with her mother worrying about her daughter’s lack of real-life friends, Viviane takes herself to Porto where she hopes to find her people and get her mother off her case. With a book in hand, Viviane finds a quiet café and sits in a corner and, much to her surprise, is soon joined by fellow book lovers, who all have their own stories to tell.
Viviane is initially rather taken aback, but it doesn’t take long for the members of this silent book club to start revealing their own secrets. From Thomas, a middle-aged man with a penchant for romantic novels to Christie addict Lucinda and gorgeous Alpha male Thiago, who looks like she should be on the front cover of a book. However, their little community is rocked by a shocking twist none of them saw coming: one of their own disappears without a word and without leaving a single trace.
The book club members vows to untangle the clues and find out what really happened. Only, none of them expected that, along the way, Cupid’s arrow might strike and a happy ending might be in reach…
Cancel your plans, switch off your phone and get ready to fall in love with Rebecca Raisin’s sensational romance about stepping out of the shadows, taking a chance on yourself and opening yourself up to the possibility of happiness. The Little Porto Book Club made me laugh and cry – not to mention kept me up way past bedtime!
Full of characters you will love, a beautifully rendered setting and touching romance that will soothe the soul and touch the heart, The Little Porto Book Club is another winner by Rebecca Raisin.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Introverted Viviane loves nothing more than losing herself between the pages of a juicy whodunnit. Viviane would much rather spend her days curled up with a good book than hanging out with her friends and socialising. However, with her mother worrying about her daughter’s lack of real-life friends, Viviane takes herself to Porto where she hopes to find her people and get her mother off her case. With a book in hand, Viviane finds a quiet café and sits in a corner and, much to her surprise, is soon joined by fellow book lovers, who all have their own stories to tell.
Viviane is initially rather taken aback, but it doesn’t take long for the members of this silent book club to start revealing their own secrets. From Thomas, a middle-aged man with a penchant for romantic novels to Christie addict Lucinda and gorgeous Alpha male Thiago, who looks like she should be on the front cover of a book. However, their little community is rocked by a shocking twist none of them saw coming: one of their own disappears without a word and without leaving a single trace.
The book club members vows to untangle the clues and find out what really happened. Only, none of them expected that, along the way, Cupid’s arrow might strike and a happy ending might be in reach…
Cancel your plans, switch off your phone and get ready to fall in love with Rebecca Raisin’s sensational romance about stepping out of the shadows, taking a chance on yourself and opening yourself up to the possibility of happiness. The Little Porto Book Club made me laugh and cry – not to mention kept me up way past bedtime!
Full of characters you will love, a beautifully rendered setting and touching romance that will soothe the soul and touch the heart, The Little Porto Book Club is another winner by Rebecca Raisin.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 27, 2026
Porto, pastéis de nata and a very unexpected mystery! It was different from what I expected — and I loved it!
((Rating: 4.5))
🕵️♀️💕 Mystery meets Rom-Com | 🥹 He falls first | 🌧️☀️ Grumpy vs. Sunshine | 🫂 Unlikely friends | 😰 Social anxiety | 📚 Introvert & neurodiverse FMC | 🔥🐢 Slow-burn friends-to-more | 🌍 Porto, Portugal
This book was such an unexpected but thoroughly enjoyable surprise! Having read several of Rebecca Raisin’s books, I thought I knew what to expect, but The Little Porto Book Club took a slightly different direction — and I loved it for that.
It’s a wonderfully quirky mix of friendship, romance, and mystery, with a colourful cast of characters who quickly won me over. The idea of a silent reading club was such a fun premise, and I especially enjoyed all the bookish conversations and amateur sleuthing that followed. There’s a lovely sense of gentle chaos throughout the story that made it incredibly easy to get swept up in.
And then there’s Porto. Rebecca Raisin once again creates a setting that makes you want to pack your bags immediately. I loved the descriptions of the city, Portuguese culture, food, and of course the little hidden pastelarias. Although I’ve never been to Porto, having explored part of the Algarve, some of those descriptions felt wonderfully familiar. However, I may have to disagree with Viviane when it comes to pastéis de nata!
What I particularly appreciated was how naturally neurodiversity, friendship and romance were woven into the story. The story is heartfelt without being overly sentimental, funny without trying too hard and filled with wonderfully imperfect characters. Viviane was a great heroine. She’s definitely an introvert, but she’s laugh-out-loud funny and was totally likeable to me!
It’s a charming, amusing and slightly unconventional read, and a lovely escape to Porto. It was definitely different from what I expected, but in the best possible way!
((Rating: 4.5))
🕵️♀️💕 Mystery meets Rom-Com | 🥹 He falls first | 🌧️☀️ Grumpy vs. Sunshine | 🫂 Unlikely friends | 😰 Social anxiety | 📚 Introvert & neurodiverse FMC | 🔥🐢 Slow-burn friends-to-more | 🌍 Porto, Portugal
This book was such an unexpected but thoroughly enjoyable surprise! Having read several of Rebecca Raisin’s books, I thought I knew what to expect, but The Little Porto Book Club took a slightly different direction — and I loved it for that.
It’s a wonderfully quirky mix of friendship, romance, and mystery, with a colourful cast of characters who quickly won me over. The idea of a silent reading club was such a fun premise, and I especially enjoyed all the bookish conversations and amateur sleuthing that followed. There’s a lovely sense of gentle chaos throughout the story that made it incredibly easy to get swept up in.
And then there’s Porto. Rebecca Raisin once again creates a setting that makes you want to pack your bags immediately. I loved the descriptions of the city, Portuguese culture, food, and of course the little hidden pastelarias. Although I’ve never been to Porto, having explored part of the Algarve, some of those descriptions felt wonderfully familiar. However, I may have to disagree with Viviane when it comes to pastéis de nata!
What I particularly appreciated was how naturally neurodiversity, friendship and romance were woven into the story. The story is heartfelt without being overly sentimental, funny without trying too hard and filled with wonderfully imperfect characters. Viviane was a great heroine. She’s definitely an introvert, but she’s laugh-out-loud funny and was totally likeable to me!
It’s a charming, amusing and slightly unconventional read, and a lovely escape to Porto. It was definitely different from what I expected, but in the best possible way!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
** ADDS ALL REBECCA RAISIN'S BOOKS TO CART **
As someone with Pure O OCD, I loved this book and really identified with Viviane!
Highly anxious, possibly autistic, absolutely socially introverted lectiophile Viviane will make friends whether she likes it or not. Her mom (and the universe) absolutely have it out for her. And thankfully, her non-existent social cues don't scare Tiago- who has more than enough to make up for what she lacks. Together, somewhat reluctantly, they begin The Little Porto Book Club.
Readers quickly learn that community is a mystery to Viviane. She doesn't understand why people behave the way they do, use metaphors, pick up on normal signals or context clues, and might have some conflicting double standards. Over the course of the novel, our 29 year old Nancy Drew puts the pieces together to solve mysteries she didn't even know surrounded her. We can't help but feel successful with her, cheering her on the whole time! Did you solve them all before Viviane? How would you have helped her out?
(Just) Two laugh out loud lines:
- "If our roles were reversed and a stranger knocked at my front door offering ears or other body part I'd beat them away with our cordless vacuum. It simply isn't done."
- "Marriage? No. The only aisle I'll be walking down is the one at the library."
Loved the Goodreads shout-out! 😄 And **SPOILER ALERT** I WOULD LOVE A BOOKWORMS TINDER!!
Troupes: vacation vibes, cozy town, oblivious protagonist, cinnamon role male lead, meet cute, grumpy (FMC) v sunshine (MMC), opposites attract, fake dating, slow burn, friends to lovers, requisite break up, traumatic event, big reveal, secret identity, everyone blossoms, HEA (it has it all!)
Spice: 0/5 🌶️
Gore: 0/5 🩸
Language: 0/5 👀
Triggers: Epi-Pen
Thank you to HQ Stories and NetGalley for this ARC!
As someone with Pure O OCD, I loved this book and really identified with Viviane!
Highly anxious, possibly autistic, absolutely socially introverted lectiophile Viviane will make friends whether she likes it or not. Her mom (and the universe) absolutely have it out for her. And thankfully, her non-existent social cues don't scare Tiago- who has more than enough to make up for what she lacks. Together, somewhat reluctantly, they begin The Little Porto Book Club.
Readers quickly learn that community is a mystery to Viviane. She doesn't understand why people behave the way they do, use metaphors, pick up on normal signals or context clues, and might have some conflicting double standards. Over the course of the novel, our 29 year old Nancy Drew puts the pieces together to solve mysteries she didn't even know surrounded her. We can't help but feel successful with her, cheering her on the whole time! Did you solve them all before Viviane? How would you have helped her out?
(Just) Two laugh out loud lines:
- "If our roles were reversed and a stranger knocked at my front door offering ears or other body part I'd beat them away with our cordless vacuum. It simply isn't done."
- "Marriage? No. The only aisle I'll be walking down is the one at the library."
Loved the Goodreads shout-out! 😄 And **SPOILER ALERT** I WOULD LOVE A BOOKWORMS TINDER!!
Troupes: vacation vibes, cozy town, oblivious protagonist, cinnamon role male lead, meet cute, grumpy (FMC) v sunshine (MMC), opposites attract, fake dating, slow burn, friends to lovers, requisite break up, traumatic event, big reveal, secret identity, everyone blossoms, HEA (it has it all!)
Spice: 0/5 🌶️
Gore: 0/5 🩸
Language: 0/5 👀
Triggers: Epi-Pen
Thank you to HQ Stories and NetGalley for this ARC!
August 14, 2026
The Little Porto Book Club by Rebecca Raisin is a slow moving romance between two introverts. It is so much more, in that Viviane that sees a mystery everywhere and her newest hangout, a silent book club at a local pastelaria, is proving to be fertile ground. She had intended it to be a book club of one, but she was approached by a young man who shared her interest in Detective Amber Quill, all of her books. He approached her. He talked too much but she put up with it and agreed to join him next week at the same time. When she approached the next week she saw several more people sitting at her table. An entertaining bunch, if one liked people. She didn’t. Tiago had just sold his app and had nothing to do. The group was full of oddballs, like her. But as she was sitting, she saw the older woman next to her was making a list of six ways to kill her husband. Viviane jumped right to the wrong conclusion.
Is Viviane on the spectrum? Maybe but she pays her way as a copy editor. She and her mother had returned to Portugal after they lost their home to her dead father’s other wife. Who knew he had two? She was still mad at him for that. Her mother was always after her to make some friends. This situation thrilled her. Especially the fact that the new friend was male. If Viviane were not careful she would be planning a wedding. It was an entertaining read centered around this small group of people who found one another. They all had quirks and that made them every entertaining. No, she wasn’t planning murder. Entertaining read.
I was invited to read The Little Porto Book Club by HQ. All all thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #HQ #RebeccaRaisin #TheLittlePortoBookClub
Is Viviane on the spectrum? Maybe but she pays her way as a copy editor. She and her mother had returned to Portugal after they lost their home to her dead father’s other wife. Who knew he had two? She was still mad at him for that. Her mother was always after her to make some friends. This situation thrilled her. Especially the fact that the new friend was male. If Viviane were not careful she would be planning a wedding. It was an entertaining read centered around this small group of people who found one another. They all had quirks and that made them every entertaining. No, she wasn’t planning murder. Entertaining read.
I was invited to read The Little Porto Book Club by HQ. All all thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #HQ #RebeccaRaisin #TheLittlePortoBookClub
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Little Porto Book Club is exactly the kind of cozy, uplifting read that feels like a holiday in book form. Rebecca Raisin captures the magic of Porto—its colour, its bustle, its tucked‑away cafés—and pairs it with a story that celebrates introverts, book lovers, and the unexpected joy of finding your people.
Viviane is instantly relatable: a shy whodunnit enthusiast who would rather live between the pages than out in the world. Her reluctant journey into the city in search of real‑life connection is both funny and tender, especially when her quiet reading session accidentally sparks a full‑blown silent book club. The eclectic mix of characters—Thomas with his secret love of romance, elegant Lucinda and her Christie obsession, and of course Tiago, the swoon‑worthy alpha male—adds warmth and humour to every chapter.
What I loved most is how the story gently nudges Viviane out of her comfort zone without ever losing empathy for her introverted heart. The friendships feel genuine, the setting is beautifully vivid, and the mystery of the missing book‑club member adds just enough intrigue to keep the pages turning.
There’s romance, yes, but also a lovely exploration of community, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to let people in. It’s light, charming, and full of sunshine—perfect for fans of escapist, book‑themed rom‑coms.
A delightful, feel‑good read that celebrates stories, serendipity, and the unexpected friendships that change everything.
with thanks to Rebecca Raisin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Viviane is instantly relatable: a shy whodunnit enthusiast who would rather live between the pages than out in the world. Her reluctant journey into the city in search of real‑life connection is both funny and tender, especially when her quiet reading session accidentally sparks a full‑blown silent book club. The eclectic mix of characters—Thomas with his secret love of romance, elegant Lucinda and her Christie obsession, and of course Tiago, the swoon‑worthy alpha male—adds warmth and humour to every chapter.
What I loved most is how the story gently nudges Viviane out of her comfort zone without ever losing empathy for her introverted heart. The friendships feel genuine, the setting is beautifully vivid, and the mystery of the missing book‑club member adds just enough intrigue to keep the pages turning.
There’s romance, yes, but also a lovely exploration of community, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to let people in. It’s light, charming, and full of sunshine—perfect for fans of escapist, book‑themed rom‑coms.
A delightful, feel‑good read that celebrates stories, serendipity, and the unexpected friendships that change everything.
with thanks to Rebecca Raisin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a wonderful character Viviane is. She sees mysteries in every part of her life, and she has such a forthright way of putting her views across about anything. She is rather particular, and definitely an introvert. I just loved the way she came across and I was rooting for her throughout.
I especially loved her character development, as she is encouraged by her mother to go for a walk each day, and then is pushed into other things. She starts going to a cafe to read, and soon she not only is the leader of a silent reading book club that doesn't always stay silent, but she seems to have a big mystery on her hands.
Tiago is made out to be her bumbling side kick, but there is so much more to him than that, and I really fell for him quite early.
I loved the setting of Porto, and getting a glimpse into how Porto mothers are, reminds me of mothers in other cultures - quite interfering, possibly with best interests at heart, but don't really listen and always think they know best!
This is a heart warming story of new friendships, of finding your own place in the world, and finding your tribe. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the other members of the book club and seeing just what they were hiding, and how much they are also benefitting from this most unlikely of groupings.
It's another wonderful book from Rebecca Raisin and I'm already looking forward to her next book.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I especially loved her character development, as she is encouraged by her mother to go for a walk each day, and then is pushed into other things. She starts going to a cafe to read, and soon she not only is the leader of a silent reading book club that doesn't always stay silent, but she seems to have a big mystery on her hands.
Tiago is made out to be her bumbling side kick, but there is so much more to him than that, and I really fell for him quite early.
I loved the setting of Porto, and getting a glimpse into how Porto mothers are, reminds me of mothers in other cultures - quite interfering, possibly with best interests at heart, but don't really listen and always think they know best!
This is a heart warming story of new friendships, of finding your own place in the world, and finding your tribe. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the other members of the book club and seeing just what they were hiding, and how much they are also benefitting from this most unlikely of groupings.
It's another wonderful book from Rebecca Raisin and I'm already looking forward to her next book.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 1, 2026
This book is absolutely for the girl who sees "Porto" and "Book Club" in the title, and "whodunnit" in the synopsis, and immediately needs to know how it all connects! The Little Porto Book Club took me right back to Porto, a city I visited years ago and loved. Reading this made me want to jump on a plane back there straight away, especially to catch sight of the Half Rabbit sculpture that I missed on my last trip.
The story beautifully combines a cosy crime mystery to solve, a delightfully quirky book club and a sweet romance. I will admit that I struggled at first with Viviane; I initially found her a bit cold and difficult to connect with. But as the story developed, I ended up understanding her much better and really enjoyed watching her character grow. I loved following her detective skills, or perhaps more accurately her lack of them, and her impressive ability to miss totally obvious clues!
The book club itself was a fantastic mismatch of very different characters, all brought together by their introverted natures, which I could deeply relate to as an introvert myself. I adored the concept of a silent book club where the main rule is simply to read in silence together. I also loved the portrayal of the Portuguese mums; while I am not familiar enough with the culture to know if it was stereotypical, it certainly made me smile a lot.
Overall, it was a fun, humorous, lighthearted and charming read. Mixing a warm romance with a cosy whodunnit felt wonderfully unconventional to me, making it a total joy to read.
The story beautifully combines a cosy crime mystery to solve, a delightfully quirky book club and a sweet romance. I will admit that I struggled at first with Viviane; I initially found her a bit cold and difficult to connect with. But as the story developed, I ended up understanding her much better and really enjoyed watching her character grow. I loved following her detective skills, or perhaps more accurately her lack of them, and her impressive ability to miss totally obvious clues!
The book club itself was a fantastic mismatch of very different characters, all brought together by their introverted natures, which I could deeply relate to as an introvert myself. I adored the concept of a silent book club where the main rule is simply to read in silence together. I also loved the portrayal of the Portuguese mums; while I am not familiar enough with the culture to know if it was stereotypical, it certainly made me smile a lot.
Overall, it was a fun, humorous, lighthearted and charming read. Mixing a warm romance with a cosy whodunnit felt wonderfully unconventional to me, making it a total joy to read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book. Always been a fan of Rebecca Raisin as she writes easy reading great stories.
In this one we meet Viviana who’s is obviously a neurodivergent lady with a love of reading. Viviana had moved to Porto with her Portuguese mother after the death of her father. After his death it came to light that he had been living a double life and had another family with two young children. This obviously confused Viviana and from that day had a hatred of liars. After much nagging from her mother Viviana meets Tiago in a coffee shop over discussions about Viviana’s favourite author and her books (whodunnit’s) they agree to meet as a “silent reading” book club the following week. When Viviana arrives it would appear that Tiago has mentioned it to other characters and there are suddenly more people involved. After the first meeting we begin to discover what had led the other book clubbers to want to join such an odd group and we start learning about all of them.
The story shows each character and their “oddities”. Also focuses on “Portuguese mothers and families” and their wishes for marriage and children for their offspring.
There are many funny moments in this book, not least the quirkiness of neurodivergent people (Viviana mainly) and how their mind works, all the time making the reader aware that this is normal for a lot of people.
The book has a very valid message that we are all different, however we choose to live our lives.
In this one we meet Viviana who’s is obviously a neurodivergent lady with a love of reading. Viviana had moved to Porto with her Portuguese mother after the death of her father. After his death it came to light that he had been living a double life and had another family with two young children. This obviously confused Viviana and from that day had a hatred of liars. After much nagging from her mother Viviana meets Tiago in a coffee shop over discussions about Viviana’s favourite author and her books (whodunnit’s) they agree to meet as a “silent reading” book club the following week. When Viviana arrives it would appear that Tiago has mentioned it to other characters and there are suddenly more people involved. After the first meeting we begin to discover what had led the other book clubbers to want to join such an odd group and we start learning about all of them.
The story shows each character and their “oddities”. Also focuses on “Portuguese mothers and families” and their wishes for marriage and children for their offspring.
There are many funny moments in this book, not least the quirkiness of neurodivergent people (Viviana mainly) and how their mind works, all the time making the reader aware that this is normal for a lot of people.
The book has a very valid message that we are all different, however we choose to live our lives.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I don't think I've ever related to a character in a book more than I have with the main character of The Little Porto Book Club by Rebecca Raisin! And as a result, this book was literally an absolute joy to read! I would really love to see Raisin create more stories featuring Viviane, an introvert and big whodunnit fan with difficulty interacting in group settings, and misses many social cues.
Now, I'm more of an omnivert, but honestly, I still found Viviane adorable and her thought processes not only relatable but also highly entertaining. The sudden mystery of what happened to a member of their supposed-to-be-silent reading club and what that member is up to has the rest of the quirky, introverted characters trying to solve it, and the touch of romance, with Viviane's reactions as it develops, is just the cherry on top of a fabulous story! There are a few delightful, side stories of growth, grief, friendship, and discovery that make this book even more delightful to read.
Raisin has truly outdone herself this time, and created a story that is fun to read, with characters that are easy to love. The look into Portuguese family traditions, particularly the behaviour of the mothers, is both interesting and hilarious.
I cannot recommend this book enough! It's a perfect summer read.
Thank you to #HarperCollins for inviting me to read the ARC of #TheLittlePortoBookClub through #NetGalley. I'd have applied to read it anyway, but it was a thrill to be asked.
Now, I'm more of an omnivert, but honestly, I still found Viviane adorable and her thought processes not only relatable but also highly entertaining. The sudden mystery of what happened to a member of their supposed-to-be-silent reading club and what that member is up to has the rest of the quirky, introverted characters trying to solve it, and the touch of romance, with Viviane's reactions as it develops, is just the cherry on top of a fabulous story! There are a few delightful, side stories of growth, grief, friendship, and discovery that make this book even more delightful to read.
Raisin has truly outdone herself this time, and created a story that is fun to read, with characters that are easy to love. The look into Portuguese family traditions, particularly the behaviour of the mothers, is both interesting and hilarious.
I cannot recommend this book enough! It's a perfect summer read.
Thank you to #HarperCollins for inviting me to read the ARC of #TheLittlePortoBookClub through #NetGalley. I'd have applied to read it anyway, but it was a thrill to be asked.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ahh what a fantastic read. I love my romance books with a hint of murder and mystery haha.
I absolutely adored Viviane, I love how straight forward she was. She told people how it was and cut straight to the point at all times. She loves her quietness and being alone but her book club is everything but that and watching her slowly come round to them all was so fantastic. This girl needed pulling out of her bubble and Tiago was the perfect one to help her do that.
When a simple book club turns into a murder mystery Viviane, pushes herself to work with her fellow book club members to get to the bottom of it and boy is it interesting to see what they uncover.
Viviane and Tiago’s friendship was so lovely. Seeing them grow and their friendship blossoming into something more was beautiful. Although, their mothers were intense.
Oh and that little twist at the end, I squealed.
There’s an array of different characters in this story and whilst they’re all so different they’re brilliant together.
I loved the whole mystery aspect to book club, it was fun watching them all scramble together the pieces and work together.
I’ve read a few Rebecca Raisin books and this one is a little different to the others but just as enjoyable. I loved the characters and having their different POVs now and again.
It’s been a joy reading this book, I hope we get more from this group of friends in the future.
I absolutely adored Viviane, I love how straight forward she was. She told people how it was and cut straight to the point at all times. She loves her quietness and being alone but her book club is everything but that and watching her slowly come round to them all was so fantastic. This girl needed pulling out of her bubble and Tiago was the perfect one to help her do that.
When a simple book club turns into a murder mystery Viviane, pushes herself to work with her fellow book club members to get to the bottom of it and boy is it interesting to see what they uncover.
Viviane and Tiago’s friendship was so lovely. Seeing them grow and their friendship blossoming into something more was beautiful. Although, their mothers were intense.
Oh and that little twist at the end, I squealed.
There’s an array of different characters in this story and whilst they’re all so different they’re brilliant together.
I loved the whole mystery aspect to book club, it was fun watching them all scramble together the pieces and work together.
I’ve read a few Rebecca Raisin books and this one is a little different to the others but just as enjoyable. I loved the characters and having their different POVs now and again.
It’s been a joy reading this book, I hope we get more from this group of friends in the future.
August 15, 2026
The Little Porto Book Club by Rebecca Raisin
[AD PR] I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Introvert and self-described whodunnit enthusiast Viviane has never much believed in living life outside of the pages of a book. But when her interfering mother insists that Viviane needs some friends who aren’t fictional, she decides to head into the beautiful bustling streets of Porto in search of her community.
What better place to start than by reading her favourite mystery in the corner of a little-known café? But when one, then two, and then outrageously six other people decide to join her silent book club Viviane realises that she is firmly out of her depth. There’s Thomas, a middle-aged man hiding his love for romance novels, Lucinda, a chic sixty-something with a penchant for Christie, and then there’s Tiago, the hot alpha male of every romance novelist’s dreams.
But when one of these newfound friends disappears from the book club without a word, will the community come together to find their fellow lost soul, and will Viviane find love along the way…?
My Opinion
I read The Little Porto Book Club in one sitting. A heart-warming novel with a lovely setting and some charming characters. With delights like The Little Porto Book Club, Rebecca Raisin is a must-read author for me.
Rating 4/5
[AD PR] I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Introvert and self-described whodunnit enthusiast Viviane has never much believed in living life outside of the pages of a book. But when her interfering mother insists that Viviane needs some friends who aren’t fictional, she decides to head into the beautiful bustling streets of Porto in search of her community.
What better place to start than by reading her favourite mystery in the corner of a little-known café? But when one, then two, and then outrageously six other people decide to join her silent book club Viviane realises that she is firmly out of her depth. There’s Thomas, a middle-aged man hiding his love for romance novels, Lucinda, a chic sixty-something with a penchant for Christie, and then there’s Tiago, the hot alpha male of every romance novelist’s dreams.
But when one of these newfound friends disappears from the book club without a word, will the community come together to find their fellow lost soul, and will Viviane find love along the way…?
My Opinion
I read The Little Porto Book Club in one sitting. A heart-warming novel with a lovely setting and some charming characters. With delights like The Little Porto Book Club, Rebecca Raisin is a must-read author for me.
Rating 4/5
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Little Porto Book Club by Rebecca Raisin is a most delightful contemporary novel that entertained me from the start.
The book has a wonderful light-hearted and fun tone as we drop in on an eclectic bunch of characters who are avid readers.
The Little Porto Book Club draws people from different walks of life who are united by their love of reading. As the book progresses, we glimpse the individual’s lives. Each one is battling something that no-one knows anything about.
Along the way there are misunderstandings which means the amateur super sleuths start investigating – always making two plus two equal five!
We meet meddling mothers who try to give romance a helping hand.
Grief is a major theme. “Grief is like a shadow, just behind you, but always there.” Grief is the price we pay for love. “This pain is my love for you, a love that has nowhere to go, it’s directionless, because you’re not there.” Sometimes grief is complicated when you suddenly find secrets coming to life.
Books save lives. There is a book for your every mood.
All the characters were very charming. I loved the dialogue that bounced between them.
The Little Porto Book Club is a fun novel for any time of year. It evokes warmth and friendship for all.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The book has a wonderful light-hearted and fun tone as we drop in on an eclectic bunch of characters who are avid readers.
The Little Porto Book Club draws people from different walks of life who are united by their love of reading. As the book progresses, we glimpse the individual’s lives. Each one is battling something that no-one knows anything about.
Along the way there are misunderstandings which means the amateur super sleuths start investigating – always making two plus two equal five!
We meet meddling mothers who try to give romance a helping hand.
Grief is a major theme. “Grief is like a shadow, just behind you, but always there.” Grief is the price we pay for love. “This pain is my love for you, a love that has nowhere to go, it’s directionless, because you’re not there.” Sometimes grief is complicated when you suddenly find secrets coming to life.
Books save lives. There is a book for your every mood.
All the characters were very charming. I loved the dialogue that bounced between them.
The Little Porto Book Club is a fun novel for any time of year. It evokes warmth and friendship for all.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2026
Viviannes mother is trying to get introverted Vivienne out of her shell so she agrees to spend an hour a week out at a local cafe in the hopes of making some new friends. She finds a quiet pasteleria away from the busy tourist area and sets in to read her favorite book thinking that she's compromising, except she gets interrupted in her reading by a fellow fan of the series who decides to sit down and join her and then they accidentally start their own silent book club. Soon despite Vivenne's hesitation they become friends and each week they meet and other eclectic characters join theirbook club and when one of them doesn't turn up one week after some interesting comments the week before. Vivienne has a mystery to solve just like the main character in her favorite book.
Vivienne was a fun character to watch grow. She very much gave Sheldon from Big Bang Theory vibes which I was totally here for. Watching her progress from solitude loving to seeing the value that friendship can bring to her life felt genuine and meaningful.
It's set in a gorgeous location and is a warm a comforting read that reminds us that every once in a while it's okay to take our eyes out of our books and see what's happening in the world around us because it's not all bad.
Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
Vivienne was a fun character to watch grow. She very much gave Sheldon from Big Bang Theory vibes which I was totally here for. Watching her progress from solitude loving to seeing the value that friendship can bring to her life felt genuine and meaningful.
It's set in a gorgeous location and is a warm a comforting read that reminds us that every once in a while it's okay to take our eyes out of our books and see what's happening in the world around us because it's not all bad.
Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
August 27, 2026
Viviane and her mum have moved to her mum’s home country of Portugal after a painful loss and betrayal. Viviane is quite reclusive and her mum is desperate for her to go out, meet people and make friends. But all Viviane wants to do is read!
The Little Porto Book Club is a wonderfully warm romance with a splash of mystery too.
This book really captured my heart. I was utterly enchanted by Viviane and Tiago's relationship as he tries desperately to break through her barriers. She doesn't state that she has neurodiversity but her behaviour and understanding of the world clearly show this. She takes things literally and there were delightful little snippets of disastrous misunderstandings from her past.
Viviane has set routines and loves to read (just like me!) She doesn't recognise Tiago's romantic efforts but he perseveres. This book contains my favourite line from a book this year: in chapter 2 ‘so, what do you do for fun?’ ’I read in total silence’. My husband should take note!
Alongside the stuttering romance, there is a mystery as one of the book club members appears to be planning to kill her husband and then disappears. The book club swings into action to investigate, with funny outcomes.
I absolutely loved The Little Porto Book Club which is warm, fun, and just perfect.
The Little Porto Book Club is a wonderfully warm romance with a splash of mystery too.
This book really captured my heart. I was utterly enchanted by Viviane and Tiago's relationship as he tries desperately to break through her barriers. She doesn't state that she has neurodiversity but her behaviour and understanding of the world clearly show this. She takes things literally and there were delightful little snippets of disastrous misunderstandings from her past.
Viviane has set routines and loves to read (just like me!) She doesn't recognise Tiago's romantic efforts but he perseveres. This book contains my favourite line from a book this year: in chapter 2 ‘so, what do you do for fun?’ ’I read in total silence’. My husband should take note!
Alongside the stuttering romance, there is a mystery as one of the book club members appears to be planning to kill her husband and then disappears. The book club swings into action to investigate, with funny outcomes.
I absolutely loved The Little Porto Book Club which is warm, fun, and just perfect.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a slightly different Rebecca Raisin book for me, not like her usual books and although I got more into the story towards the end I found it a bit of a struggle initially.
Viviane and her mother have moved back to her mother's home country of Portugal after their father/husband died and they also found out he had a secret relationship and children for many years. Viviane isn't good with lots of people around and struggled a lot with the Portuguese way of life with family always visiting and poking their nose in to her life. Her mother persuades her to get out and about and purely by chance she meets Tiago in a coffee shop and they form a silent (sort of!) book club, which Tiago then invites other people to join. Viviane finds this difficult at first, but slowly gets more used to it.
Then one of their members stops coming and because of comments made they feel she may have murdered / about to murder someone, and so the book club sets out to solve the mystery. All quite mad really, and with a wide variety of unusual characters.
I love Porto which is the reason I picked this book up in the first place, and whilst the characters grew on me a little towards the end of the book I just didn't click with any of the characters, so just an ok read for me this time.
Viviane and her mother have moved back to her mother's home country of Portugal after their father/husband died and they also found out he had a secret relationship and children for many years. Viviane isn't good with lots of people around and struggled a lot with the Portuguese way of life with family always visiting and poking their nose in to her life. Her mother persuades her to get out and about and purely by chance she meets Tiago in a coffee shop and they form a silent (sort of!) book club, which Tiago then invites other people to join. Viviane finds this difficult at first, but slowly gets more used to it.
Then one of their members stops coming and because of comments made they feel she may have murdered / about to murder someone, and so the book club sets out to solve the mystery. All quite mad really, and with a wide variety of unusual characters.
I love Porto which is the reason I picked this book up in the first place, and whilst the characters grew on me a little towards the end of the book I just didn't click with any of the characters, so just an ok read for me this time.
July 16, 2026
This was a really fun read! Viviane is in Porto living with her interfering mother, and is challenged to find some real friends, but the ones in the Quill book series she is reading, to move forward from what happened to her in her past.
The book club is a happy accident when she decided to have some silent reading and a pastry in a cafe, and meets fellow bookworm, Tiago. The book club grows and she begins to get an unexpected friendship circle, from the old man Albert, to the traveller, Zephyr, who is trying to find herself.
From the detective books she is reading, they become part of a real life mystery and grow closer together in a way that they don't expect, most importantly who is the Blue Beret Man!
She has no idea which way her life will turn (and honestly the twist at the end was fab) along with her relationship with her mother improving, as she also heals from her past.
This will be a great holiday read! And shows how books can heal and change the way you do things!
I loved how it is not just Viviane's story, but how we also hear from the other members of the Book Club and their background which influences how they do things too.
The book club is a happy accident when she decided to have some silent reading and a pastry in a cafe, and meets fellow bookworm, Tiago. The book club grows and she begins to get an unexpected friendship circle, from the old man Albert, to the traveller, Zephyr, who is trying to find herself.
From the detective books she is reading, they become part of a real life mystery and grow closer together in a way that they don't expect, most importantly who is the Blue Beret Man!
She has no idea which way her life will turn (and honestly the twist at the end was fab) along with her relationship with her mother improving, as she also heals from her past.
This will be a great holiday read! And shows how books can heal and change the way you do things!
I loved how it is not just Viviane's story, but how we also hear from the other members of the Book Club and their background which influences how they do things too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews