The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop

Bonnie Bay #1

by Debbie Johnson

“Take a leap of faith and visit our perfect little bookshop by the sea.” Bookshop owner Moira writes the first of many invitations she’ll send out into the world. They’ll find the right people, she’s certain…

Single and in a dead-end job, Kate feels hope spring when an anonymous invitation falls from the pages of a book. Now, she’s standing in a charming Scottish village and trying to ignore the six-four silver fox by her side. He’s got an invitation too, a husky Chicago accent, and dangerously gorgeous sea-blue eyes…

Widowed ex-police officer Brody never expected to be stranded in Scotland with a cute British lady. Her smile might be bewitching… but her attitude? Way too cheerful. And eccentric bookshop owner Moira says they can stay for free, as long as they don’t mind sharing one very cozy little cottage.

That’s the least of their problems. Turns out Moira’s bookshop needs them just as much as Kate and Brody need a fresh start. And with a twinkle in Moira’s mischievous matchmaking eye, things are soon hotting up in surprising ways!

But as they string fairy lights over snug reading nooks and rally the whole community to buy their favourite reads, can Kate and Brody save the bookshop and heal their hearts? Or will their fresh start come crashing down?

From the million-copy bestselling author of the Comfort Food Café series comes a brand-new, totally addictive and feel-good escapist romance with delicious steam and spice. Perfect for anyone who loves getting lost in a book – in more ways than one! Fans of Susan Mallery, Phillipa Ashley and Laurie Gilmore won’t be able to put this down.

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Friendship, Scotland, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Fiction

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2026

About the author

Debbie Johnson is an award-winning author who lives and works in Liverpool, where she divides her time between writing, caring for a small tribe of children and animals, and not doing the housework.

She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.

Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.

She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[Caz (Underlined) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson, and I honestly loved it. It’s a heartwarming contemporary fiction novel with a strong romantic thread, but it’s also so much more than just a love story. It really feels like a comforting escape, the kind of book you want to curl up with on a quiet afternoon.

What I found so great about this book is the atmosphere. While the bookshop itself isn’t overly idealised, it still plays an important role in the story and helps bring the characters together in a meaningful way. Debbie Johnson has such a natural, inviting writing style that completely draws you in—her storytelling feels effortless, warm, and full of heart. She has a real talent for creating hopeful, emotionally rich stories, and her writing flows so smoothly that it makes the whole book incredibly easy to read and fully immersive.

The characters are another highlight for me. They feel real and relatable, each with their own struggles and growth. I especially liked how they weren’t perfect — that made them much easier to connect with. Watching their journeys unfold and seeing how they support each other was one of the most enjoyable parts of the story. You really start to care about what happens to them.

In terms of how it made me feel, it genuinely left me feeling happy and comforted. There are emotional moments, but they’re balanced with warmth and optimism, which I really appreciated. It’s the kind of book that reminds you of the importance of kindness, second chances, and finding where you belong.

I also found it such a digestible read. The pacing is just right, the chapters flow easily, and it’s the kind of book you can quickly get into and not want to put down. It never feels heavy or complicated, which makes it perfect when you’re looking for something uplifting and easy to sink into.

As for the plot, I thought it was engaging without being overly complicated. It flows nicely, with just the right amount of drama and romance to keep things interesting. Nothing felt rushed, and I enjoyed how everything came together by the end in a satisfying way.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves feel-good, uplifting stories with strong characters and an emotional, hopeful tone. It’s the perfect comfort read.

Thank you to the author Debbie Johnson, bookouture publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review

Publication date: 30th April 2026

[Elle G. Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is a charming and heartwarming read! The cozy, small town atmosphere is a delight, the setting picturesque, and the characters were so damn loveable! And the bookshop at the center of it all? Absolutely perfect!

I loved following Kate and Brody. Both needed a fresh start and with a little help from a bookshop owner they were able to do just that. Their journey not only included a forced proximity romance, but also of healing and self-discovery. The added storyline with these two helping to save a struggling bookstore made the story even more special to me!

Overall, I adored this book, and I think anyone who wants to read something that will make you feel good and put a smile on your face will love this one too!
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Shelby Westerdahl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop was a really sweet and cozy story about second chances and found family. I loved the whole idea of the cards and books connecting people, and the bookshop setting just made everything feel warm and comforting. It was also nice to read a romance with older main characters for a change. I’ll admit I didn’t totally click with the main couple, and the pacing felt a bit slow in places, even though it was still a quick read overall. I was also surprised by the steamy scenes because I wasn’t expecting them at all. But I really enjoyed the side characters, and Bonnie Bay sounded like such a lovely place that now I kind of want to know more about it.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Was. Delightful!

I just looked, and I’ve read this author before… and loved every one of her books!
And… she has a way of writing that makes her books VERY DIFFERENT than anything I’ve read before…
And, I read a lot!!

This one opens up with Moira, an elderly woman who lost her husband.. the love of her life, and feels like she has nothing left. One day at her bookshop, she decides to do something crazy! She puts notes into several books, inviting people from wherever they happen to be (she ships books all over the world 🌎), to come to her bookshop for an escape. To find themselves again. To heal. To relax. Whatever they need! 🩷😊 And stay as long as they’d like!

We come across Kate, a British woman. She’s divorced, and ok with that, but she feels like everything is always her fault. She’s in a dead end temp job. She feels like she has nothing to look forward to. She goes into a bookshop, but really does not have any spare money to buy a book… but the owner tells her to take it, and pay her when she can.
She’s shocked to find a piece of paper in the book inviting her to an ‘Edge of the World Bookshop in Scotland’. She can stay as long as she likes, or as long as she needs. All she has to do is get there! She goes back to speak to the shop owner. What’s this about? She has no idea… But tells her to go! It might be just what she needs!

We also have Brody. He’s a widower from Chicago, with a daughter who’s just starting college in England! He’s a retired Detective, but he’s never given up the persona. He doesn’t trust many people, and is constantly looking over his shoulder and at every skeptical person near him! He goes into a bookshop and buys a book. And… finds a piece of paper, inviting him to the same Scottish bookshop.

Surprisingly, they both decide to head to Scotland… and, meet each other along the way. They do NOT hit it off. They actually pretty much despise each other! But, when they realize they are heading to the same place, finally at least…talk.

However, when they get there, they learn that the bookshop has closed. The elderly woman who ran it took ill… and she’s not coming back.

And that my dear friends is where the book actually TAKES OFF!

This was a BEAUTIFUL story about people, small towns, camaraderie, faith, love, trust… and so much more!

Absolutely 5 brilliant, beautiful, heartfelt, loving, kind, second-chances-are-always-the-best stars for me! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

#TheHopefulHeartsBookshop by @DebbieJohnson and narrated wonderfully by @JoshWichard and @ LucyPaterson.

*** This one releases today, so please keep your eyes 👀 open for it!! 4/30/26! ***

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and @BookoutureAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!

And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷

[Olga Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an adorable love story. Cute and unexpected. Grateful to have been able to read for free. Loved this book and would recommend to my audience.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful, heart-lifting and engaging story by Debbie Johnson! The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop has such an original and thought provoking premise. Someone has inserted invitations inside (ten) books and sent them into bookshops (we learn later who). The reader is presented with beautiful heartfelt words that show someone cares and understands the trials they are facing. Words of encouragement are included. Then the reader-finder is asked to take a leap of faith, go to this special bookshop in Scotland and be a guest for however long they need to get back on their feet or feeling better. These messages are meant to be tokens of kindness and offer comfort, healing and renewal for those who need it. Most would think it was a scam as often such things are but two people who find them decide to take a chance or leap of faith and see just what it is all about.

Kate has, what she considers to be, an unimportant job. She also has a dreadful ex-husband who has beaten down her confidence and betrayed her. So she is ripe for an experience. And one day while in a bookshop, a book falls off the shelve and hits her on the head. Is it a sign? The book is about Scotland so as she looks inside its pages, she finds an invitation. If what it says is true, who put the letter in the book? Should she take it or give it to the bookshop owner? Being honest, she tells the owner what she finds and tries to give it back. But she is encouraged to take it as it must be meant for her. It offers her words of encouragement and invites her to visit the Scottish village bookshop and be a guest. It pulls on her heart strings and after encouragement from the bookshop owner, she decides to take up the offer.

While on route to the bookshop on a train, Kate bumps into a grumpy man who’s going in the same direction. Widowed Brody is an American ex-police officer who is not doing so well. He has dropped is daughter off at Oxford University and now sorting out what to do. Although he is big and tough, he is not good with feelings. In fact, he has been in a slump and suffering from a work related injury and emotional trauma. Like Kate, he also stumbles across an invitation left in a book. Yes, from the same person (which we later know to be named Moira). And contemplates the possibility.

I loved every page of this fabulous plot along with the two characters, Kate and Brody, who are coming from different backgrounds and locations. They have each accepted the offer and take on this golden opportunity. On the journey to Bonny Bay, these two strangers, English Kate and American Brody, cross paths. They are both heading to the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop in Scotland and it is easy to see they each have their issues. It seems too their past experiences affect their ability to be cordial with each other. At times they rub each other the wrong way. But eventually they settle and make the best of their encounter and approach the shop with plenty of questions and concerns. But what they find on their arrival is not at all what they expect.

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop’s owner, Moira, has had an accident and not in the best of spirits. In many ways she has given up on the things she once loved—including her beloved bookstore. The loss of her husband has obviously contributed. He was the one who came up with the invitation in books idea but while he was alive nobody ever came. It is easy to see how Moira would lose hope. But now, two people have turned up and it seems at the right time. For Moira (the owner) and her shop, both need help and Kate and Brody are just the pair to do that. And while helping to restore Moira’s heart and premises, they also begin to heal from their own wounds. For what better way to recover from loss or betrayal than become active in helping others! And Kate and Brody are good people and deserve a break. We, as readers, just want to cheer, hug, encourage and nudge them in the right direction. They feel like real people with real scars who have been subject to some unfortunate experiences. As we get to know their quirks, wishes and potential, we understand their desires, hesitations and longings.

Hope is at the centre of this novel because it is the thing that draws these two characters out of their shells (and to each other) as they begin to think they might be deserving of a second chance and even love. The novel is filled with community spirit, high octane attraction and plenty of sincere uplifting moments. The message is clear that love is still possible after death of a spouse or divorce. Although baggage might slow you down for a while, it is important to embrace new experiences as you just don’t know what new adventures await you—if you are willing to take a leap of faith.

I have enjoyed previous series by Debbie Johnson. She always delivers excellent romantic tales. But this one is extra special, and I could not put it down. Obviously there will be more to come! As there were ten invitations and so far only two persons have found or taken up the offer. So who will come next? It will be fun to discover what adventures and characters follow. I will definitely be lined up to escape into more of Debbie’s blissful Bonny Bay books! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the review copy.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apparently all it takes to lure me into a life-changing adventure is a handwritten note tucked inside a book and the promise of a seaside bookshop in Scotland. Honestly? I’d be checking every used bookstore in Northern California for hidden invitations and booking a flight before anyone could explain why this is probably how people end up in true crime documentaries.

Debbie Johnson’s The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop was exactly the kind of cozy escape I needed.

Thank you to Bookouture and Debbie Johnson for the gifted book.

The second Kate found that mysterious invitation hidden inside a book, I was all in. Kate is divorced, stuck in a job she doesn’t love, and carrying around years of damage from a husband who convinced her she was never quite enough. Then there’s Brody, a widowed ex-cop from Chicago whose default setting is grumpy and suspicious. The man basically treats happiness like it’s a scam.

Naturally, they’re both headed to the same tiny Scottish village.

Naturally, they immediately annoy each other.

Naturally, I loved every second of it.

What surprised me most was how emotional this book turned out to be. I expected cozy romance. I expected charming bookshop vibes. I expected a little grumpy sunshine tension.

I did not expect this story to be so much about healing.

Kate got me. Every time she apologized for something that wasn’t her fault, I wanted to reach through the pages and tell her to stop giving other people that much power over her. You can see how years with her ex chipped away at her confidence, and watching her slowly start to trust herself again felt incredibly satisfying.

And Brody? I was a fan from the start. He’s grumpy, stubborn, carrying around grief he hasn’t fully unpacked, and completely convinced he has everything under control when he absolutely does not. The man needed Scotland almost as much as Kate did.

Then there’s Moira.

I loved Moira.

Not because she’s perfect. Because she isn’t.

She’s nosy. She meddles. She says exactly what she’s thinking. She refuses to stay quietly on the sidelines. Half the time I was laughing at her and the other half I wanted to sit down with her over tea and hear every story she’s ever collected.

Honestly, Bonnie Bay sounds like the kind of place I’d never leave. A little bookshop by the sea, people who actually know their neighbors, beautiful views, books everywhere, and enough community spirit to make even an introvert like me consider participating.

This quote hit me right in the heart:

“I didn’t mean to upset you, Kate. I just… I don’t like the way you sometimes apologise just for being you. You should never have to apologise for being yourself.”

There are probably a lot of us who needed to hear that.

And yes, I knew where parts of the story were heading.

Did that stop me from smiling like an idiot?

Nope.

Did it stop me from rooting for Kate and Brody?

Also nope.

Sometimes a book doesn’t need to surprise me. Sometimes I just want to spend a few hours with characters I enjoy and close the book feeling better than I did when I opened it.

That’s exactly what happened here.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Now excuse me while I continue hoping a mysterious invitation falls out of a book and sends me somewhere with a cozy bookstore, an ocean view, and absolutely no laundry.

If you found one, where would yours send you?

[JennaJustReading · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Cozy Bookshop Romance That Feels Like a Warm Hug

⭐⭐⭐✨ 3.75/5
Plot / Story ⭐⭐⭐
Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing Style ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Atmosphere/Vibes ⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️


If you’ve ever dreamed of running away to a quaint seaside village, opening a cozy little bookshop, and finding love along the way, The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson is going to be such a vibe for you.
This is one of those books that just feels comforting from the moment you step into it. It’s warm, uplifting, a little whimsical, and full of characters that you genuinely enjoy spending time with. And honestly? Sometimes that’s exactly the kind of read you need.
The story centers around Kate and Brody, two people who couldn’t be more different on the surface but are both carrying their own emotional baggage. Kate is stuck in a life that no longer fits her, while Brody is navigating grief after losing his wife. When a mysterious invitation hidden inside a book leads them both to a tiny Scottish village, you just know something magical is about to happen.
And of course… it does.
The setting of Bonnie Bay is absolutely charming. Think cozy cottages, a tight-knit community, and a bookshop that feels like it was made for healing broken hearts. The “Edge of the World Bookshop” is honestly the kind of place I wish existed in real life: filled with fairy lights, cozy reading nooks, and the promise that maybe, just maybe, things can get better.
This is definitely a character-driven story, which I personally loved. The focus is really on emotional healing, second chances, and finding your place in the world again. Watching Kate and Brody slowly open up, trust again, and build something new together felt natural and believable. Their chemistry has that subtle, “zinging” quality that keeps you invested without feeling over-the-top.
But I have to say… Moira completely stole the show for me.
She’s the eccentric, slightly mischievous bookshop owner who’s orchestrating a lot more than she lets on, and her dynamic with her sister Joanne had me laughing. There’s such a fun, playful energy there that balances out the heavier emotional themes in the story. It’s one of those relationships that just adds so much life to the book.
The pacing does take a minute to settle in at the beginning, but once the story fully moves to Bonnie Bay, it becomes such an easy, addictive read. It’s the kind of book you can curl up with and just get lost in for an afternoon.
Now, while this is definitely a feel-good romance, it doesn’t completely shy away from heavier topics. There’s grief, past emotional abuse, and characters working through some deep personal struggles. But it’s all handled in a way that still feels hopeful and uplifting, which I really appreciated.
At the end of the day, The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is exactly what it promises to be: a story about healing, community, and second chances, wrapped up in a cozy, bookish setting. It genuinely felt like a warm hug of a book.
And also… there are puffins. Enough said.
If you love cozy romance, small-town settings, found family vibes, and stories centered around bookshops and fresh starts, this is absolutely one to add to your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the alc. #TheHopefulHeartsBookshop #NetGalley

[Olga Godim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
There is a category of books nowadays with the same premise. The protagonist(s) go to a remote little town to heal, physically or mentally, and while there, they find a place to save (a bookstore, a bakery, a library, etc.). More often than not, they fall in love and forge new friendships. They admire nature and restore their wounded souls. Sounds familiar?
I have read a few such books by now, and they don't often work for me. This novel belongs to the same category, but fortunately, it worked. It was a delightful tale about two older people (she is 40, he is 52) falling in love and restoring a bookstore together in a small Scottish town. It warmed my heart.
The narrative is clean and professional, and the lead characters are sharply defined, even though most secondary characters blend together onto the same amorphous 'support staff'.
I liked the heroes, especially the guy, Brody. He is a grumpy and brooding widower, a former policeman from Chicago. His 22-year-old daughter, studying in Oxford, is the most important person in his life, but the heroine, Kate, gradually becomes just as important to him, and he resists the change. It is a struggle for him to love again. He loved his late wife, and although it's been 5 years since she died, it is hard for him to let go of his grief, to allow another woman to alleviate his loneliness.
I really felt for the guy, so strong and brawny, but "... so sweet beneath his tough exterior," according to Kate. I felt less for Kate, not because she didn't deserve my care but because she was less distinct. Just one more divorcee, a survivor of an unhappy and abusive marriage. I didn't quite see her in clear relief the way I could see Brody, but I still sympathized with her and wanted her happy.
Overall: a charming novel, faintly humorous and slightly idealistic. The only negative note (for me) was frequent and steamy sex scenes. They didn't feel organic to this otherwise cozy story. It felt like the author wanted to reach a certain segment of readers and tacked on these scenes as an inducement for them. I don't begrudge those readers their prurient fun, but in my view, this particular book would've been better without it.

[Bárbara Martins · Rating 5 out of 5]

♡ Thank you NetGalley for such great Arc in exchange of a honest review! This is a free spoiler review :)

•*⁀➷ Dare I say my favourite book of 2026! I never read anything by Debbie and I was so excited when I saw the offer to review this book!! The cover already got me all giggly and thinking “uhh.. I think imma love this already.” And I wasn’t wrong! When I first read the prologue my jaw DROPPED and i was like “alright you got me.” It’s a book thats is so out of common that It immediately caught my attention and became a five star. Usually all romance books now are always the same thing but I never read anything like this one! The concept is absolutely magical and lovely and it somehow even makes you wonder if such place existed (i wish i could go on in there tho😞). I can tell you that I was supposed to finish the book the day I received it but I couldn’t bring myself to cuz I didn’t want to leave this universe. I couldn’t leave them behind and live my life normally after this.

•*⁀➷ Now talking about the characters (Daddy Broody please arrest me.) jokes on you, I feel maternal towards Broody😭 My boy suffered so much! I love how Debbie was able to portrait his fragilities and his insecurities so well because i genuinely fell every little pain he felt. Broody beyond being a hottie and definitely a husband material, his dad protective side towards Shannon always did this thing to me and I was like “right, i have daddy issues and you are reminding me of that.” I loved to follow his story and he certainly had the final he deserved so much🥹

•*⁀➷ I feel like I need a whole book to Talk about the FMC because Kate is now one of my new favourite characters and I don’t think I will ever forget her. I was reading some reviews before reading the book and I read people calling her a “pick me girl” those people certainly never had the experience of a abusive relationship and never experienced that feeling that you can be free yourself after being locked for such long time. I loved Kate and her extroverted personality, the way she puts everyone above her, the way she retracted so perfectly how a messed up woman can be after a harsh relationship. I don’t have anything bad to talk about her because genuinely she deserved the whole galaxy system and it wouldn’t be enough.

—•*⁀➷ They chemistry between them is felt since the very first moment they laid eyes on each other, yeah he is grumpy and tries to be a harsh boy but deep down we know what you’re up to, Daddy Broody👁️👁️. I was head over heels watching them work together and doing baby steps while slowly discovered they were indeed with love with each other even if they denied it all the way! The secondary characters deserve a special spot light because I love Grandma😭 I wanted to be able to sit down and talk with her for hours! (And work at the bookshop too if that’s possible 💔)

╰☆╮ In short! After yapping too much. If you’re looking for a strangers to friends to lovers, slowburn, forced proximity, a story full of cute scenes and a ‘Tinder Bookstore (😭)’ that will make you find the love of your life on a random Tuesday with a cool granny and alcoholic new best friends for life? PICK THIS UP!! (Not to mention the Hottie 50’ year old big bicep cop named Broody. He is also very worth it, trust me.) Debbie’s writing is so easy going and certainly she is one of my new favourite authors that Im so glad that found me! this book isn’t just a cute romance that gives you hope to find your true love when everything seems to be failing, when you feel like you want to give up and nothing is worth it. It’s a book where makes us feel scene, especially if we had deal with abusive and toxic relationships..grief of a past partner. This is a book that reminds us that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. 🤍

ʚ ═══･୨✨୧･═══ ɞ

—◡̈ ♡̷̷ Below you can find some of my favourite quotes! Dw it’s spoiler free!!☁️


—“Maybe heartbreak is a modern invention.”

-“I didn’t mean to upset you Kate. I just… I don’t like the way you sometimes apologise just for being you. You should never have to apologise for being yourself.”

-“Right now I can’t imagine taking even one step away from this woman, never mind running a mile. It’s like there’s an invisible string thing us together, a lifeline we both grabbed hold of that now bind us.”

-“I know I’m a mess. But I’m yours, one hundred per cent.”

-“ I love you and I want to be with you. Wherever that is, for as long as you’ll have me.”

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is the first book in Debbie Johnson's new series, Bonnie Bay. Bookshop owner Moira writes the first of many invitations she’ll send out into the world: “Take a leap of faith and visit our perfect little bookshop by the sea.”

Some people found an invitation and wrote a message on it, returning it to where they found it, but two people, Kate - Single and in a dead-end job decides to take the chance and see what happens, and Widowed ex-police officer Brody who is in the UK for a vacation, decides to head to Scotland to see the bookshop and to see the Puffins. They both show up in the small Scottish Village with their invitations at the same time. Moira shows them to the cozy cottage where they will be staying, together. Moira also needs some help. Her bookshop is in a bad way and needs some updating and new ideas. In return, they can stay for free, and Moira gets to try her hand at matchmaking. Kate and Brody settle in fixing up the shop, rallying everyone in the village and perhaps developing feelings toward one another.

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop was a sweet story, with great characters, a wonderful setting, friendship, a great community and some romance. Kate is a bit frosty with Brody at the start, but she thaws as they spend time together. Brody has no intention of staying in the UK and knows his time is limited, but he's interested in some friends with benefits activity. They both had some hang-ups, Brody still loved his wife, but his daughter is encouraging him to move on. Kate has just come out of an emotionally abusive relationship and doesn't have much trust for men. I really liked all the secondary characters and how they all came together for Moira. Of course the puffins added that connection wo nature and with each other that I loved. When I was in Scotland, there wer no puffins there at that time, so I loved that they got to see them and spend time with them. I loved the plot of this story and would love to have the opportunity to take a leap of faith and do something like Kate and Brody did. This was a heartfelt story, with a twist that surprised me, but I loved it. Yes, Brody has to leave, but were they together long enough to make things work? If you enjoy a sweet (there are a couple of spicy scenes) romance, with more mature characters, then I definitely recommend you pick up the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop. I am looking forward to seeing what the second book in this series will introduce us to.

[Anna Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Cozy Bookshop Story Will Heal Your Heart

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop audiobook (pub 04/30/26) is such a cozy, feel-good listen! 💕 Owners of a bookshop put invitations into books and ship the books to other stores. The invitation is for them to make a journey to The
World Bookshop in Bonnie Bay in Aberdeenshire, an inlet of the North Sea, inviting them to stay as long as they like. It is a heartfelt invite, a “warm hug”, if you’ve lost a loved one or feel invisible, offering a warm welcome and friendship.

A woman named Kate is gifted a book and an invite is inside. She’s recently divorced from a toxic man, has a dead end job and few friends. She is down on herself and feels invisible in this world.

Brody, an American, is a single dad, early 50’s, widowed, has a 22 year old daughter that gifts him a book containing the Bonnie Bay bookstore invite. He’s broken and has been since his wife died. Now he’ll be alone while his daughter goes to college.

Kate and Brody individually take the journey on the invite. Once at Bonnie Bay’s World Bookshop, they discover the invites were a thing of the past and no one was prepared for their arrival.

The audiobook experience itself is strong overall. The use of both a male and female narrator adds dimension and helps distinguish perspectives, which really enhances the storytelling. Both performers bring warmth and personality to their roles, making it easy to stay engaged. I really enjoyed having both a male and female narrator—it added so much depth to the story.

The story is full of heart, lovable characters, and that perfect small-town magic, romance, second chances at life and healing. It’s warm, uplifting, and perfect if you’re in the mood for a comforting escape. Definitely a 4-star listen! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice level 🌶️🌶️

I'm eagerly counting down the days for the next Bonnie Bay installment, Second Chances at the Hopeful Hearts Bookshop, arriving on July 16, 2026.

[Agi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lovely book - I mean, it's Debbie Johnson, and I'm so glad it's a new series, already looking forward to the next book!
However, not as good as I'd like it. The beginning was really exciting and brilliant - humorous but also with some poignant elements, just like I hoped. The arrival at Bonnie Bay - hilarious! The characters were absolutely wonderful, so full of life, especially the village residents, there was this lovely, warm, like a hug feeling of the community and of being secure in Bonnie Bay, a place that I wouldn't want to leave. But the plot itself started to feel to slow, as if there was no better idea what to do with the characters. Yes, it's this kind of book that you've already read thousand times and you know how it's going to end, but this is why I requested this book, however, in my humble opinion, it felt flat - I expected something more from the plot itself. When you know what's going to happen and how it's going to end, you could at least expect some twist that will throw you, that will make you gasp, that will make you punch the air and say "Wow, THIS I didn't see coming". At least just one. But not this time.

Nevertheless, this is a lovely, warm read that will make your heart sing and will make you laugh but maybe also shed a tear or two, it's just the perfect mix.

[Lauren Tomasello · Rating 3 out of 5]

A feel-good, light-hearted romance about two strangers that find themselves on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Scotland together! Such a charming premise, a widow sends out 10 invitations to her bookshop in books spread out across the world. For 4 years, no one shows, so she begins to give up hope, but suddenly, two people find and choose to accept the invitation at the same time.

Neither Kate nor Brody accepted this trip with finding love on their minds, each just wanting a fresh start and a bit of adventure, but they manage to find both in each other. Very sweet, wholesome small-village setting where everyone cares about their neighbors and wants to help. I do wish Kate had by the end demonstrated a bit more growth: understanding her worth, being less critical of herself while evaluating outcomes and options for their future, and allowing herself to be open and to desire love!

Overall, gorgeously written setting and a nice cozy read! I couldn't relate to the characters as well as I have in other rom-coms because they were older and this was a second-chance love story, but still really enjoyed it.

[Corinne’s Chapter Chatter · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This complimentary ALC from Bookouture Audio via NetGalley invited me into a cozy, feel-good escape that’s very much geared toward a more mature reader, and for the most part, it delivers exactly that vibe.

This is a slower, reflective journey following two individuals who step away from their lives after discovering a mysterious invitation tucked inside a book, leading them to a bookshop in Scotland. Of course, things don’t go quite as planned once they arrive, but what unfolds is a life-changing experience that leans heavily into self-discovery and second chances.

I did get a chuckle out of another reviewer questioning the realism of the premise—specifically, whether someone would actually take a spontaneous trip under these circumstances (no spoilers). The truth is, people absolutely have done this, especially in parts of Europe. While social media and access to information have changed how we move through the world, they’ve also made things statistically safer in many ways. So yes, people still take leaps of faith, and this story really leans into that “on a wing and a prayer” spirit.

From a more critical standpoint, the pacing does drag a bit in the middle after a strong start. That lull is noticeable, but sticking with it pays off because the ending brings things together in a satisfying way.

The audiobook definitely helps smooth over that slower section. Narrated by Josh Wichard and Lucy Paterson, the dual narration is warm, age-appropriate, and genuinely soothing. Their performances carry the emotional tone well, and I had no problem listening at 2x speed without losing any of the nuance or charm.

I’d recommend this to readers in my age range and older. It’s refreshing to spend time with middle-aged characters and follow a story that embraces growth, change, and a bit of unexpected adventure later in life.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is the first novel by Debbie Johnson I have read. I went into it blind and came out delighted. After two strangers are drawn to a bookstore in a random way, restoration occurs. The book has depth, character, and atmosphere. The most impressive part of the novel to me was Johnson’s ability to master the voice of a weary Brit, an ex-cop American, and a Scottish gran! It is a master class in voice. Perfect for fans of quaint British Romances!

I also loved tracking the books and birds throughout the novel.

I took part in the ChallyPop Challenge for The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson and was gifted a copy.

[Chantelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is pure cosy escapism—bookshop by the sea, mysterious invitations, and a small Scottish village? I was in immediately.

Kate is easy to root for, and Brody is very much grumpy-meets-sunshine (plus… silver fox with a Chicago accent, so obviously yes). Their chemistry is sweet with just enough tension to keep things interesting.

The real charm is the setting though—tiny community, struggling bookshop, fairy lights everywhere. It’s very “curl up with a cup of tea” vibes.

A little predictable, but honestly that’s part of the appeal. Comforting, romantic, and very easy to sink into.

[Laura Prindable · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It was so heart warming and unexpected. Just what I needed!

Kate and Brody both receive invitation to a bookshop. Can you even imagine?

5 stars

Many thanks to Net Galley and Bookouture Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Mary S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review for The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson
Publish Date 4/30/2026
4 Stars

Thank you to Debbie Johnson, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the ARC and audiobook in exchange for an honest review. The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop was a heartwarming romance set in the most charming town of Bonnie Bay, Scotland. I liked the dual narrators, Josh Wichard and Lucy Paterson, they really brought the characters to life. The running theme of the book is about healing and second chances at life and love.
Our main characters, Kate and Brody, are both at a low point in their lives and senedipitously wind up at the Edge of the World Bookshop at the same time due to mysterious invitations hidden inside a book. While it’s not quite what they were expecting when they showed up, they decide to stay and help the owner, Moira, get the bookshop back up and running for one last summer. What starts as a short holiday and a leap of faith turns into a lifechanging experience for everyone in this tight knit community. There is a little heartbreak, miscommunication, and folly, but the HEA is so satisfying. Also the spice was quite nice!
There were 10 invitations sent out into the world and we see two of the people show up in this story. I can’t wait to see who else finds their way to Bonnie Bay and the magical bookshop in future books!

Read this if you like: cozy romance, second chances, small town, uplifting

[Feli · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop by Debbie Johnson (audiobook)

Such a cozy, uplifting listen! I loved the warm, welcoming feel of the bookshop and the strong sense of community throughout the story. The characters felt real, and their journeys of healing and connection really stayed with me.

This one left me feeling hopeful. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something heartfelt and easy to sink into.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced listening copy. I’m leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Helen Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was exactly the right book at exactly the right time for me 🤍

After so many dark, twisty reads lately, this felt like a complete reset – warm, cosy, hopeful, and just lovely to sink into. The kind of book where you don’t even realise you’ve been smiling until your face actually hurts a bit.

Bonnie Bay completely stole my heart. I could picture it so clearly – the sea, the cliffs, the little cottages, the sense of everyone knowing everyone. And the Edge of the World Bookshop? Honestly… I’d pack a bag and go immediately.

The characters felt so easy to spend time with. A little messy, a little lost, but full of heart. And I loved the mix of emotion and humour – one minute I was soft and a bit emotional, the next I was actually laughing out loud (which always feels like a win in a book).

Brody’s grumpy, protective energy was chef’s kiss – exactly the kind of character I love. And there’s something about this whole story that just quietly wraps itself around you.

Also, as someone with Scottish roots, I loved that extra layer – the setting, the dialect, all of it. Reading “hen”, “cannae” and “willnae” in my head in a Scottish accent just made it even better 🥰

At its heart, this is a story about hope, second chances, and finding where you belong. About taking that leap, even when life hasn’t gone the way you thought it would.

“To the right person, at the right time.”

That line sums it up perfectly, and honestly, it’s exactly how this book found me.

A cosy, feel-good escape with heart, humour, and just a little bit of magic ✨

Favourite quotes:

“It transported him to somewhere safe and magical, as all good books can.”

“To the right person, at the right time.”

“Life is always in a state of change – just like the flowers, the sea, the sky.”

“Possibly say a prayer to the patron saint of horny old men.” 🤭

[VickydpBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a heartwarming escape filled with books, second chances, and a touch of romance, this charming story is the perfect read. This is the first book of the Bonnie Bay Series.

Set in the idyllic Scottish village of Bonnie Bay, the novel transports readers to a cozy seaside bookshop where kindness, friendship, and new beginnings are always on the shelves. Kate’s journey from feeling stuck in a life she no longer loves to discovering a place where she truly belongs is uplifting and relatable. Her character grows beautifully as she learns to let go of the past and embrace unexpected opportunities.

The bookshop itself is every book lover’s dream, complete with shelves of stories, fairy lights, welcoming corners, and the wonderful Moira, whose anonymous invitations offer hope to those in need of a fresh start. She is an unforgettable character whose warmth and generosity are at the heart of the story.

The romance between Kate and Brody is a delightful slow burn. Brody may appear gruff at first, but beneath the tough exterior is a caring and dependable man. Their chemistry develops naturally as they work together to breathe new life into the struggling bookshop, creating plenty of sweet, humorous, and emotional moments along the way.

The Scottish coastal setting is beautifully described, making it easy to imagine the sea breeze, the cries of the seagulls, and the welcoming atmosphere of Bonnie Bay. It’s the kind of place readers will wish they could visit.

Full of lovable characters, community spirit, gentle humour, and hope, this is an uplifting feel-good novel that celebrates fresh starts, found family, and the magic of books. Perfect for fans of cozy romances and stories that leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the final page.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Felicia Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hopeful Hearts Bookshop is the first book in the Bonnie Bay series and it is sooooo good! I absolutely loved every single thing about this book! The setting is written so well that I could picture it (and yes, I would love to visit, duh). The plot will keep you engaged the entire time. The FMC is so relatable - she’s a literal ray of sunshine, even though she feels as if she’s invisible. She’s charming, witty, and downright adorable and I loved all her inner thoughts. The MMC is everything you want in a male character - strong, handsome, and protective. They’re both multidimensional and I loved seeing their growth and self development. And their chemistry and banter was so good!! This book had me feeling all the feels and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. I can’t wait to continue with this series!! This is the first book I’ve read by Debbie Johnson and it definitely will not be my last. I listened to the audiobook and both of the narrators did a great job. 🩷📚🩵

I would like to thank Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for giving me an ALC (which did not sway my opinions or review).

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’d really probably give this 3.5 stars. The story is a sweet romance, but predictable. I love the characters and the setting! The way Bonnie Bay, Scotland, is described makes me want to go and live there. So delightful! I also really enjoyed the batter and humor in the story. I often found myself smiling as I listened to the story.

We have three people who are grieving… Moria, a widow who sends out the cards that bring Kate, a divorced woman who feels invisible, and Brody, a widower who’s lost his purpose in life. As fate brings Kate and Brody to Bonnie Bay, they find Moria in a wheelchair after an accident and the bookstore in disrepair. They end up staying in Moria’s cottage and fixing up the bookstore, giving Moria and the town much-needed hope. Brody is an ex-cop, decent man, self-aware, a bit curmudgeony and possessive, and not very verbal. Kate is very emotional, rather down on herself, and yet is fairly optimistic. Kate and Brody are attracted to each other and enter a holiday “friends with benefits” relationship. The primary conflict is everyone healing to a point where they can move forward with their lives. It is good to see each of them grow, but for some reason, it often left me feeling sad. That’s what lost the 1/2 a star.

Overall, I liked it enough that I’ll read or listen to the next book in the series.

I did listen to this book. Each chapter notes whose point of view you’ll be hearing from. It was fun that there were 2 narrators: a woman who read Moria’s prologue and Kate’s chapters, and a man who read Brody’s chapters. This way, we also got accents since Kate was from London, Moria from Scotland, and Brody from Chicago. My one complaint is the pronunciation of “macho.”

I want to thank Bookouture Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced reader version of the audiobook.

[Alison McIntyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars 🌟

Finally a book and story for us middle aged people 🤣

I think I’ll read anything that is set in a bookshop and super bonus points if it is set in Scotland.

Recently divorced, 40 year old Kate, misses her bus one day and winds up in a bookshop in London. There she picks up a copy of Outlander and sees a letter tucked inside from a mysterious bookshop in Scotland inviting whoever reads the letter to come and stay.

Brody, 51 year old windowed ex police officer from Chicago, is dropping his daughter off at Oxford and contemplating what life will look like when he’s finally all alone. His daughter gifts him a book with a letter inside too also inviting him to Scotland.

Happenstance meeting on the train puts both Kate and Brody in each other’s paths both journeying to The Bookshop at the Edge of the World up in Scotland. I think both of them are hoping the visit will help them in their stagnant lives.

However, when they arrive, they find that the bookshop is closing down because its elderly owner Moira has given up after she had an accident and can no longer walk.

Kate and Brody don’t want to return to their lives so they decide they’ll stick around and help Moira fix up the shop for one last hurrah. They also arrange a holiday romance with each other as long as no feelings get involved.

Feelings do get involved though 🤣

I want to say that there should be a couple trigger warnings. One for an emotionally abusive ex husband and one for accidental pregnancy. Kate’s husband made her think she was unable to have kids and even faked medical results with her.

Side books: Outlander, Hiking in the highlands

Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this ARC. I can’t wait to read the rest in the series! I’ll keep my eye out for them.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Debbie Johnson books because they are always cozy and feel like an escape!

Kate finds a mysterious invitation inside a book to visit a bookshop by the ocean in Scotland. She decides to take a leap of faith only to find out that Brody, a grumpy former police officer, also found an invitation. Once they arrive, they realize the bookshop may be not exactly what they were expecting but that it may hold it’s own kind of magic.

I really enjoyed this book! It's easy to read, atmospheric, hopeful and cozy! I would love to see it made into a movie. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!

Thank you Netgalley, Debbie Johnson and Bookouture for the eARC; all opinions expressed are my own.

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ What This Book Gave Me

Everything I want from a feel-good read—humor, heart, lovable characters, and moments that genuinely tugged at my emotions. It was warm and comforting while still delivering depth and meaningful character journeys.

⸻

💛 What I Loved

* The wit throughout the story had me smiling constantly
* The emotional moments felt heartfelt and real
* Moira absolutely stole the show for me
* Characters that felt layered, lovable, and memorable
* A cozy bookshop setting that made me want to step right inside
* The perfect balance of humor and heart

⸻

⚡ Why I Kept Reading

I was completely invested in these characters and their lives. Every chapter gave me either a laugh, an emotional moment, or more reasons to adore the cast—especially Moira. I couldn’t wait to see how everything would come together.

⸻

🧠 Final Thoughts

I was obsessed with this one. Debbie Johnson created such a warm and charming story filled with wit, emotion, and characters you genuinely care about. Moira was an absolute standout, and the whole book felt like a comforting escape with plenty of heart. I already know I’ll be thinking about this story for a long time.

⸻

📚 Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely—especially for readers who love cozy, character-driven stories with humor, emotion, and unforgettable side characters.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Johnson healed something in me that I didn’t even know was broken. Any romance that takes place in Scotland (especially an audiobook) is an instant add to TBR for me, but this is one of the few that will actually make it to my physical bookshelf! I’d added it to my B&N cart before I was even finished, and I’ve already recommended it to all of my Romance bookish friends.

Who wouldn’t love to find an invitation to a beautiful, magical (but real) place hidden inside a random book? I think most of us have probably fantasized about something similar happening to us, so we could be whisked away to another life for a time. Enter, Moira. She sends random books out into the world with seemingly personalized invitations to visit her bookstore in Bonnie Bay, Scotland - two of which find their way into the hands of Kate (British) and Brody (Chicagoan). What are the chances that they find these cards at the same time and end up crossing paths in Scotland? [In Romanceland, very, very likely.]

We follow Kate and Brody through the process of figuring out what has happened, why they felt the pull to accept the invitation when so many others had passed it along, who they are now and why, and who they want to become. The descriptive language coupled with the excellent narration really makes this an enjoyable experience. Josh Wichard and Lucy Paterson did a fantastic job bringing the text to life! Many times I wanted to cry just from the emotion in their voices alone. (Other times I did cry because of the story.) Plus, there were several twists I did not see coming, but were wholly unique from any other books I’ve read.

This one definitely found the right person, at the right time!

Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for an audio arc of this book!

[Emma Ward]

Not for me. A bit too depressing with no let up in the beginning.

[Cynthia T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you @Netgalley and @Bookouture Audio for the ALC. I loved this audio. The narrators were great. This story was full of humor, love and found family. A must read for all.