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The Paper House: A charming and utterly unputdownable page-turner
It was a shop full of wonder; sheets of colorful paper, pots of ink on every surface, and spools of ribbon suspended on gleaming brass hooks. But it was even more magical when it was filled with people. Rumor was that the owner, Tilly, could send letters to long-lost loved ones if you penned them on the long wooden desk…
Everyone on the island would go there, not just to buy writing supplies, but to write these letters. To the people they’d not been able to say goodbye to, to the people they wished would come home. The Paper House was a place for grieving, for remembering, for forgiving.
And now, years later, as Kayla reopens the beautiful front door, and feels the memories of her Great Aunt Tilly come flooding back, it has the chance to become a place for someone who lost everything to finally find herself again.
If only Kayla can find the courage to face the ghosts of the past…
A compelling and captivating novel full of heart, imagination and magic, The Paper House is perfect for fans of The Lost Bookshop, The Glass House and The Keeper of Lost Things.
What readers are saying about Barbara
“A book to be devoured, once you begin you won’t be able to stop until the last page is turned… Heart-warming, feel-good… A must-read… I absolutely loved this.” Page-Turners Book Reviews by Caroline, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I loved this book, it captured my heart from the minute I started reading it… I couldn’t put this down… absolutely brilliant.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I am at loss of words to explain how I felt about this book… Loved… Amazing… A wonderful masterpiece. This book will stay with me for a long time.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Completely stole my heart from the very first page!… absolutely fantastic and had me hooked right from the beginning… perfect, emotional… brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. This book is a stunning, unforgettable read that I will be thinking about for a long time!” heidireadsitall, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I devoured this beauty in a day! Talk about being hooked to a book!… Had me from the first page and didn’t let go!… Will tug at the heart.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Totally enchanting. I was immediately under the spell of the characters… Gorgeous… will capture your heart.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Enchanting… phenomenal… magic… I cannot recommend it enough.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Phenomenal… Grabbed my attention immediately and had me eagerly flipping pages by the end of the first chapter!… There’s so much to love about this story!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Absolutely gorgeous and page-turning… Enchanting… &
Everyone on the island would go there, not just to buy writing supplies, but to write these letters. To the people they’d not been able to say goodbye to, to the people they wished would come home. The Paper House was a place for grieving, for remembering, for forgiving.
And now, years later, as Kayla reopens the beautiful front door, and feels the memories of her Great Aunt Tilly come flooding back, it has the chance to become a place for someone who lost everything to finally find herself again.
If only Kayla can find the courage to face the ghosts of the past…
A compelling and captivating novel full of heart, imagination and magic, The Paper House is perfect for fans of The Lost Bookshop, The Glass House and The Keeper of Lost Things.
What readers are saying about Barbara
“A book to be devoured, once you begin you won’t be able to stop until the last page is turned… Heart-warming, feel-good… A must-read… I absolutely loved this.” Page-Turners Book Reviews by Caroline, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I loved this book, it captured my heart from the minute I started reading it… I couldn’t put this down… absolutely brilliant.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I am at loss of words to explain how I felt about this book… Loved… Amazing… A wonderful masterpiece. This book will stay with me for a long time.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Completely stole my heart from the very first page!… absolutely fantastic and had me hooked right from the beginning… perfect, emotional… brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. This book is a stunning, unforgettable read that I will be thinking about for a long time!” heidireadsitall, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I devoured this beauty in a day! Talk about being hooked to a book!… Had me from the first page and didn’t let go!… Will tug at the heart.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Totally enchanting. I was immediately under the spell of the characters… Gorgeous… will capture your heart.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Enchanting… phenomenal… magic… I cannot recommend it enough.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Phenomenal… Grabbed my attention immediately and had me eagerly flipping pages by the end of the first chapter!… There’s so much to love about this story!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Absolutely gorgeous and page-turning… Enchanting… &
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2026
About the author
Barbara Josselsohn
16 books281 followersBarbara Josselsohn is a best-selling author known for her captivating contemporary and historical novels, including her latest, The Forgotten Italian Island. This sweeping, multigenerational story delves into the lives of two women bound by a fateful mistake made one night during the Nazi occupation of northern and central Italy. Barbara's work is marked by richly developed characters, intricate emotional landscapes, and immersive settings that transport readers to the heart of each story.
With a talent for blending history and human drama, Barbara’s novels explore complex themes of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of secrets. Her storytelling often spans generations, drawing readers into a tapestry of personal and historical struggles. Known for her lush descriptions and evocative prose, Barbara has garnered praise for her ability to bring history to life while crafting deeply emotional, character-driven narratives.
Her books resonate with readers who appreciate stories that combine rich historical details with powerful personal journeys. Currently, Barbara is working on a new World War II novel set in the mountains of southern France.
In addition to her writing career, Barbara teaches novel writing at Sarah Lawrence College and other prestigious venues. When not writing, Barbara enjoys ballet, yoga, reading, and relaxing on the beach. She loves spending time with her family, which includes her beloved rescue pup, Albie.
With a talent for blending history and human drama, Barbara’s novels explore complex themes of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of secrets. Her storytelling often spans generations, drawing readers into a tapestry of personal and historical struggles. Known for her lush descriptions and evocative prose, Barbara has garnered praise for her ability to bring history to life while crafting deeply emotional, character-driven narratives.
Her books resonate with readers who appreciate stories that combine rich historical details with powerful personal journeys. Currently, Barbara is working on a new World War II novel set in the mountains of southern France.
In addition to her writing career, Barbara teaches novel writing at Sarah Lawrence College and other prestigious venues. When not writing, Barbara enjoys ballet, yoga, reading, and relaxing on the beach. She loves spending time with her family, which includes her beloved rescue pup, Albie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 11, 2026
There were two aspects that immediately appealed in this book. Firstly, the love of stationary (can be known as a stationerophile!). Secondly, the power of written letters. The combination from Josselsohn creates a charming narrative which has some romance, secrets and history, too.
A highly enjoyable read from Josselsohn, I loved the concept of The Paper House and the idea that writing letters can be an emotional release. For some of Tilly’s clients, it is a type of confession but for others, this goes much deeper with saying goodbye to loved ones and using the letter as an opportunity to heal. Therefore, it is this historical timeframe where Tilly truly sees the power of letter writing and this then feeds into Kayla’s present day story.
Working with Jack on the Front Line sees Tilly helping soldiers write letters whilst they are in hospital. Whether it’s a goodbye or a reassurance, the letters are a powerful tonic that provides warmth and closure. This then transcends to Tilly’s shop and I appreciated the magic behind the act of writing letters and the aftermath, too.
In present day, Kayla is tasked with handling The Paper House after Tilly’s death. She is a complex character and I liked how the writer explores her past with that life-changing summer spent with Tilly, as well as her connection with Austin. Indeed, the synergy of male characters made the relationships all the more special, creating a very satisfying conclusion at the end.
The theme of ghosts is ever-present in the novel. Part of me wishes the writer had done a little bit more with this, especially surrounding the letter in the blue bowl. I read the book expecting more of a paranormal influence so I think this was a shame this was not developed in the way I hoped.
However, this was a great, comforting read and from a new author for me. I liked how the different timelines fused together and definitely appreciated the writer’s message of how significant written letters are. In this sense, it’s quite a thought-provoking read and an art form that is being lost thanks to electronic communications. It’s something we are all guilty of – using the instant e-mail or text message – rather than taking the time to craft a letter and I wonder if this is an art form that will see a resurgence, especially as you can’t beat the magic of something arriving by post.
With thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A highly enjoyable read from Josselsohn, I loved the concept of The Paper House and the idea that writing letters can be an emotional release. For some of Tilly’s clients, it is a type of confession but for others, this goes much deeper with saying goodbye to loved ones and using the letter as an opportunity to heal. Therefore, it is this historical timeframe where Tilly truly sees the power of letter writing and this then feeds into Kayla’s present day story.
Working with Jack on the Front Line sees Tilly helping soldiers write letters whilst they are in hospital. Whether it’s a goodbye or a reassurance, the letters are a powerful tonic that provides warmth and closure. This then transcends to Tilly’s shop and I appreciated the magic behind the act of writing letters and the aftermath, too.
In present day, Kayla is tasked with handling The Paper House after Tilly’s death. She is a complex character and I liked how the writer explores her past with that life-changing summer spent with Tilly, as well as her connection with Austin. Indeed, the synergy of male characters made the relationships all the more special, creating a very satisfying conclusion at the end.
The theme of ghosts is ever-present in the novel. Part of me wishes the writer had done a little bit more with this, especially surrounding the letter in the blue bowl. I read the book expecting more of a paranormal influence so I think this was a shame this was not developed in the way I hoped.
However, this was a great, comforting read and from a new author for me. I liked how the different timelines fused together and definitely appreciated the writer’s message of how significant written letters are. In this sense, it’s quite a thought-provoking read and an art form that is being lost thanks to electronic communications. It’s something we are all guilty of – using the instant e-mail or text message – rather than taking the time to craft a letter and I wonder if this is an art form that will see a resurgence, especially as you can’t beat the magic of something arriving by post.
With thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Author Barbara Josselsohn reminds us that letters have power.
Josselsohn’s dual-timeline historical fiction is set in 1944 and 2024 and features Natalie ‘Tilly’ Kaplan and her great-niece, Kayla Kaplan. The Paper House became a safe place where those who were grieving, those who needed to forgive, or simply for those who wanted space to remember. Healing began when they wrote letters. When Kayla inherits the shop, there’s an opportunity for the legacy to continue.
The Paper House was all about saying what you meant. We still need places such as this one! I loved the encouragement to write down our emotions as a form of healing. Sometimes we just need to free ourselves of the heartache. We don’t need a Tilly in our lives, but having a journal is a great start.
If you enjoy stories with heart and brimming with emotion, reading about those who find the courage to face the past and carve out a new future for themselves or simply love getting lost in a great story, this one needs to be on your reading list.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Josselsohn’s dual-timeline historical fiction is set in 1944 and 2024 and features Natalie ‘Tilly’ Kaplan and her great-niece, Kayla Kaplan. The Paper House became a safe place where those who were grieving, those who needed to forgive, or simply for those who wanted space to remember. Healing began when they wrote letters. When Kayla inherits the shop, there’s an opportunity for the legacy to continue.
The Paper House was all about saying what you meant. We still need places such as this one! I loved the encouragement to write down our emotions as a form of healing. Sometimes we just need to free ourselves of the heartache. We don’t need a Tilly in our lives, but having a journal is a great start.
If you enjoy stories with heart and brimming with emotion, reading about those who find the courage to face the past and carve out a new future for themselves or simply love getting lost in a great story, this one needs to be on your reading list.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 2, 2026
It was a shop full of wonder; sheets of colorful paper, pots of ink on every surface, and spools of ribbon suspended on gleaming brass hooks. But it was even more magical when it was filled with people. Rumor was that the owner, Tilly, could send letters to long-lost loved ones if you penned them on the long wooden desk…
When Kayla was sixteen, she was sent to spend the summer with her Great-Aunt Tilly, while her parents sorted out the troubles they were having with their marriage. She didn't want to go, but after spending a short amount of time on Celestine Island, with Aunt Tilly and in her store, she didn't want to go home. She met Austin, the boy across the road, and fell in love, at least as much as a 16 yo can. When it was time to go home she was devastated, but she never went back. In fact she never talked to Aunt Tilly again. Now, twenty years later, she finds herself dealing with her grief, as Aunt Tilly has died and left her the Paper House. Tilly's story begins during WW2, when she is in London, then Paris working for the US Army. When she returns home, she opens the Paper Shop. Everyone on the island would go there, not just to buy writing supplies, but to write letters. They wrote to people they’d not been able to say goodbye to, and people they wished would come home. The Paper House was a place for grieving, for remembering, for forgiving. But, Tilly had secrets and they might be the only things that will keep Kayla from selling the store and moving to Celestine Island.
I've read several books by Barbara Josselsohn and enjoyed them all. This was a little different with some magic and ghosts. Often when I read a dual timeline story, I prefer one more than the other, but I enjoyed both of these equally. Tilly's story during the war was heartbreaking and the more I learned about her past, the more I cared about her. She had been through a lot, but her care and compassion for others never seemed to waver. Kayla also had a difficult past. With her parents fighting and eventually splitting up, her father moving on with his new family and her mother's addiction issues, she had dealt with a lot in her first 16 years. When something happens that summer, she ends up carrying grief and guilt for years, keeping her from returning to Celestine Island, even though she loved her time there. She was still dealing with grief as it has not yet resolved and as she spends time in the village and the house, she comes to see Aunt Tilly in a very different light. With the help of Evan, the new owner of the diner across the road, she stays to learn more about Tilly, the possible baby that once lived in the house, and maybe to rekindle those feelings of love from twenty years ago. I loved every minute I spent with this book. I know that I love receiving mail, whether it's a card or letter, and I thought using letters to deal with heartbreak, grief, loss and other emotions worked really well. Once I started reading this book and meeting the characters, I couldn't stop. I wanted to know what happened to certain characters, as well as what would happen to others. Themes of loss, grief, family, community, dealing with emotions, heartbreak, guilt and more are all blended nicely into this story. If you enjoy a good dual timeline story, with lots of heart, then I recommend The Paper House.
When Kayla was sixteen, she was sent to spend the summer with her Great-Aunt Tilly, while her parents sorted out the troubles they were having with their marriage. She didn't want to go, but after spending a short amount of time on Celestine Island, with Aunt Tilly and in her store, she didn't want to go home. She met Austin, the boy across the road, and fell in love, at least as much as a 16 yo can. When it was time to go home she was devastated, but she never went back. In fact she never talked to Aunt Tilly again. Now, twenty years later, she finds herself dealing with her grief, as Aunt Tilly has died and left her the Paper House. Tilly's story begins during WW2, when she is in London, then Paris working for the US Army. When she returns home, she opens the Paper Shop. Everyone on the island would go there, not just to buy writing supplies, but to write letters. They wrote to people they’d not been able to say goodbye to, and people they wished would come home. The Paper House was a place for grieving, for remembering, for forgiving. But, Tilly had secrets and they might be the only things that will keep Kayla from selling the store and moving to Celestine Island.
I've read several books by Barbara Josselsohn and enjoyed them all. This was a little different with some magic and ghosts. Often when I read a dual timeline story, I prefer one more than the other, but I enjoyed both of these equally. Tilly's story during the war was heartbreaking and the more I learned about her past, the more I cared about her. She had been through a lot, but her care and compassion for others never seemed to waver. Kayla also had a difficult past. With her parents fighting and eventually splitting up, her father moving on with his new family and her mother's addiction issues, she had dealt with a lot in her first 16 years. When something happens that summer, she ends up carrying grief and guilt for years, keeping her from returning to Celestine Island, even though she loved her time there. She was still dealing with grief as it has not yet resolved and as she spends time in the village and the house, she comes to see Aunt Tilly in a very different light. With the help of Evan, the new owner of the diner across the road, she stays to learn more about Tilly, the possible baby that once lived in the house, and maybe to rekindle those feelings of love from twenty years ago. I loved every minute I spent with this book. I know that I love receiving mail, whether it's a card or letter, and I thought using letters to deal with heartbreak, grief, loss and other emotions worked really well. Once I started reading this book and meeting the characters, I couldn't stop. I wanted to know what happened to certain characters, as well as what would happen to others. Themes of loss, grief, family, community, dealing with emotions, heartbreak, guilt and more are all blended nicely into this story. If you enjoy a good dual timeline story, with lots of heart, then I recommend The Paper House.
September 22, 2026
Favorite Quotes:
Austin’s father had been a cook in the army and had a knack for delivering good, hot food very fast. Kayla would sometimes watch him in the kitchen through the open space behind the counter. To her, he moved like a dancer executing the most complicated choreography, although Austin’s mom maintained he’d been an octopus in another life and had eight invisible arms that he brought out when no one was looking.
You can know someone a long time and never care a whit. You can know someone for a day and love them for the rest of your life.
Irony was a funny word, she thought. It was the excuse people used when life showed how random it really was. As if labeling events as ironic made them make sense somehow.
Time moves so strangely the older one gets. I always thought I had all the time in the world. But now I see how little time there actually was. A full day ahead every morning, and yet before you know it, it’s dark again. It’s not that the hours weren’t there. It’s that they feel long when they are ahead of you and instantaneous when they are behind you.
My Review:
This was my first exposure to Barbara Josselsohn’s magical arrangements of words. She is a master weaver of heartfelt tales, and her word voodoo is strong! I am kicking myself for not noticing her mad skills before. I fell headfirst into an absorbing vortex of multiple timelines and an authentically constructed cast of characters. The storylines were evocative and poignant and hit all the feels, as well as delivering enticing mysteries that niggled at my curiosity and had the little pea in my brain on constant alert. I am motivated to amass all her previous works if they are even half as satisfying as this one.
Austin’s father had been a cook in the army and had a knack for delivering good, hot food very fast. Kayla would sometimes watch him in the kitchen through the open space behind the counter. To her, he moved like a dancer executing the most complicated choreography, although Austin’s mom maintained he’d been an octopus in another life and had eight invisible arms that he brought out when no one was looking.
You can know someone a long time and never care a whit. You can know someone for a day and love them for the rest of your life.
Irony was a funny word, she thought. It was the excuse people used when life showed how random it really was. As if labeling events as ironic made them make sense somehow.
Time moves so strangely the older one gets. I always thought I had all the time in the world. But now I see how little time there actually was. A full day ahead every morning, and yet before you know it, it’s dark again. It’s not that the hours weren’t there. It’s that they feel long when they are ahead of you and instantaneous when they are behind you.
My Review:
This was my first exposure to Barbara Josselsohn’s magical arrangements of words. She is a master weaver of heartfelt tales, and her word voodoo is strong! I am kicking myself for not noticing her mad skills before. I fell headfirst into an absorbing vortex of multiple timelines and an authentically constructed cast of characters. The storylines were evocative and poignant and hit all the feels, as well as delivering enticing mysteries that niggled at my curiosity and had the little pea in my brain on constant alert. I am motivated to amass all her previous works if they are even half as satisfying as this one.
September 3, 2026
I agree with the theme of the book. Letter writing is a dying art but there is satisfaction in putting pen to paper and expressing yourself.
Modern communication may be faster but is very Impersonal and clinical.
Kayla returns to her great aunt’s business and tries to figure out the backstory of it all.
I liked the modern part better because Tilly’s story was very sad for me.
Kayla never really had anyone who cared about her so I was glad she found some solace on the island.
Thanks NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
Modern communication may be faster but is very Impersonal and clinical.
Kayla returns to her great aunt’s business and tries to figure out the backstory of it all.
I liked the modern part better because Tilly’s story was very sad for me.
Kayla never really had anyone who cared about her so I was glad she found some solace on the island.
Thanks NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
August 7, 2026
Review of ‘The Paper House’ by Barbara Josselsohn, due to be published on 2 September 2026 by Bookouture.
A beautifully atmospheric novel that blends family secrets, emotional drama and mystery into an absorbing story.
Told in alternate sections focussed on Tilly, mostly in 1944 and her niece Kayla in present day, unlocking the secrets that are buried in The Paper House. The beautifully described setting provides the perfect backdrop as the characters uncover truths that have been concealed for years.
The characters are wonderfully developed, each carrying their own emotional baggage. The narrative balances the mystery with heartfelt family dynamics, creating an engaging story that is as emotionally satisfying as it is intriguing.
The pacing is steady throughout, with twists, revelations and poignant moments. The vivid descriptions and evocative writing bring both the characters and the setting to life, while the satisfying conclusion ties together the many strands of the story in a rewarding way.
An engrossing and heartfelt novel filled with family secrets, compelling characters and an intriguing mystery.
A beautifully atmospheric novel that blends family secrets, emotional drama and mystery into an absorbing story.
Told in alternate sections focussed on Tilly, mostly in 1944 and her niece Kayla in present day, unlocking the secrets that are buried in The Paper House. The beautifully described setting provides the perfect backdrop as the characters uncover truths that have been concealed for years.
The characters are wonderfully developed, each carrying their own emotional baggage. The narrative balances the mystery with heartfelt family dynamics, creating an engaging story that is as emotionally satisfying as it is intriguing.
The pacing is steady throughout, with twists, revelations and poignant moments. The vivid descriptions and evocative writing bring both the characters and the setting to life, while the satisfying conclusion ties together the many strands of the story in a rewarding way.
An engrossing and heartfelt novel filled with family secrets, compelling characters and an intriguing mystery.
August 9, 2026
Thank you for this ARC: all opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved the structure of this book: flashbacks to the 1940’s from Tilly’s POV, and her ability to help injured soldiers write home, and then Kayla’s POV in 2024 visiting Tilly’s home, the Paper House. The use of epistolary (letter format) creates such a beautiful connection between grief and ghosts in our lives. Overall, the author does a great job of connecting all the mysteries in the end, and showing how we are all connected through the stories of our lives, losses, love, and grief. The concept of the home, the island, and even the attic are so well done: the setting is so well done in this book. Overall, a great blend of historical fiction and romance.
I absolutely loved the structure of this book: flashbacks to the 1940’s from Tilly’s POV, and her ability to help injured soldiers write home, and then Kayla’s POV in 2024 visiting Tilly’s home, the Paper House. The use of epistolary (letter format) creates such a beautiful connection between grief and ghosts in our lives. Overall, the author does a great job of connecting all the mysteries in the end, and showing how we are all connected through the stories of our lives, losses, love, and grief. The concept of the home, the island, and even the attic are so well done: the setting is so well done in this book. Overall, a great blend of historical fiction and romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having recently DNFed several books because they were cynical, faux-edgy and/or depressing, I was especially happy to come across a book that was sweet and hopeful and charming (without being treacly or Hallmark-esque.) The Paper House has all the things I expect from a Barbara Josselsohn book: convincing, likable characters; beautiful descriptions; impeccable historical detail… and this one also has a touch of magic realism. While there is some loss and sadness, the overall tone is optimistic, something we all need right about now. And… it motivated me to write a few letters, myself. (Read the book and you’ll see what I mean.) Highly, highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paper House is a new departure for Barbara Josselsohn as it is very different from recent previous novels that she has written. This story blends romance, historical fiction and a family mystery with magical realism. There are mentions of ghosts throughout which is where the magical realism comes in and to be honest I did have to suspend my disbelief for this as it’s not something that I would usually choose to read about in a book. I found myself glossing over these parts and didn’t overly focus on them as I felt for me they weren’t warranted in the story but that’s just my personal opinion. I did like that the story was told in the dual timeline format weaving consistently and effortlessly back and forth between the modern day and World War Two. The plot set in the past was the one which I favoured, and I would have loved even more of this.
The story centres around the little paper shop on Celestine Island in upstate New York. Kayla has inherited the special shop following the death of her great aunt Tilly. Kayla has not been to the island in twenty years since she spent one magical summer there. She is a person desperate to be loved and wanted as loneliness engulfs her and she feels like this emotion will remain with her forever. Those months that she spent living with Tilly were some of the most special and memorable but an event towards the end of her time there has tarnished her memories and even when Tilly died she still did not return for the funeral. It’s not explicitly said what happened at that time but Tilly does recount some things and the reader is left to fill in the gaps until the moment of revelation which occurs towards the end of the book. It’s only when something is discovered in the attic of the paper house that Kayla has no other choice but to come to the island and in doing so she must confront her demons but also uncover the true story of Tilly. A woman who was eccentric but underneath it all is full of kindness, understanding and compassion all these traits have been shaped by her past experiences.
Kayla, in the modern day, undertakes a journey of discovery to discover why the objects were left in the attic but also a trip of understanding as she comes to learn the importance of the paper house. What it meant to Tilly, the role it served in the community and could continue to do so if she chooses to keep it open. She goes back and forth over this as she has her own job working in a creche which she enjoys and needs to get back to. This is where I felt there was an awful lot of repetition as well as in several other places. If we were told once we were told I don’t know how many times that she needed to get back to her normal life. I did find this slightly frustrating. Alongside, local diner owner Evan, Kayla navigates her way through Tilly’s story uncovering bits piece by piece but it was Tilly’s story that held my interest far more.
The descriptions of the shop and all its contents were wonderful and so easy to visualise in my mind. The paper house was her life’s work and mission but why was this case. To understand we are taken back to 1944 where she secretly enrols in the Women’s Army Corps by lying about her age. She has had a rough few years family wise and wants to break free from her past and do something to help others. Working in England transcribing recordings and notes coming in from France and turning them into detailed reports. She meets a doctor from Ohio, Jack and it was obvious that she quickly falls head over heels for him. But he was nearly twice her age, and I sensed something about him that he was reluctant to fully embrace Tilly for whatever reason. Tilly builds connections with wounded soldiers during the war as similar to Jack she writes letters as dictated by the soldiers and promises to send them. This is her way of offering comfort when needed and she builds an emotional attachment to the job she has undertaken and this motivation and quest will be with her for the remainder of her life. This all highlights the importance of letter writing which is the dominant theme of the book around which the depth of Tilly’s story is interwoven.
Letters contain stories, messages and memories and things that could not be said in person to someone. We learn that Tilly established the paper house as a refuge for people where she can continue on the work she started in the war. People from all walks of life and for many varied reasons could come and pick up a pen and paper and pour their hearts out and each day Tilly would post those letters that could be sent and those that could not she kept safe. She was giving an emotional outlet to people but the reader is desperate to know the specific reasons for this and to this end I was always desperate to get back to chapters told from Tilly’s perspective. Tilly shows us how a small act of kindness can have consequences for generations. Letter writing is an art that can be painful but in going through the process it can lead to healing, forgiveness and understanding and as Kayla finds answers, she starts to connect things back to her own life and what has caused her distress and emotional baggage is slowly emerging and a new path may possibly be formed for her.
The Paper House was a bit of a mixed bag for me. On the one hand I loved Tilly’s story especially during the war but then on the other things were so vague and very abstract at times that I felt there needed to be something concrete to cling to and this was absent. I’m not sure was I the intended target audience for this one but as I had really enjoyed the authors recent historical fiction novels I wanted to give this one a go. I know there will be lots and lots of readers that will enjoy this story and take lots from it and enjoy the heartfelt and emotional message that it provides but for me it didn’t always hit the mark.
The story centres around the little paper shop on Celestine Island in upstate New York. Kayla has inherited the special shop following the death of her great aunt Tilly. Kayla has not been to the island in twenty years since she spent one magical summer there. She is a person desperate to be loved and wanted as loneliness engulfs her and she feels like this emotion will remain with her forever. Those months that she spent living with Tilly were some of the most special and memorable but an event towards the end of her time there has tarnished her memories and even when Tilly died she still did not return for the funeral. It’s not explicitly said what happened at that time but Tilly does recount some things and the reader is left to fill in the gaps until the moment of revelation which occurs towards the end of the book. It’s only when something is discovered in the attic of the paper house that Kayla has no other choice but to come to the island and in doing so she must confront her demons but also uncover the true story of Tilly. A woman who was eccentric but underneath it all is full of kindness, understanding and compassion all these traits have been shaped by her past experiences.
Kayla, in the modern day, undertakes a journey of discovery to discover why the objects were left in the attic but also a trip of understanding as she comes to learn the importance of the paper house. What it meant to Tilly, the role it served in the community and could continue to do so if she chooses to keep it open. She goes back and forth over this as she has her own job working in a creche which she enjoys and needs to get back to. This is where I felt there was an awful lot of repetition as well as in several other places. If we were told once we were told I don’t know how many times that she needed to get back to her normal life. I did find this slightly frustrating. Alongside, local diner owner Evan, Kayla navigates her way through Tilly’s story uncovering bits piece by piece but it was Tilly’s story that held my interest far more.
The descriptions of the shop and all its contents were wonderful and so easy to visualise in my mind. The paper house was her life’s work and mission but why was this case. To understand we are taken back to 1944 where she secretly enrols in the Women’s Army Corps by lying about her age. She has had a rough few years family wise and wants to break free from her past and do something to help others. Working in England transcribing recordings and notes coming in from France and turning them into detailed reports. She meets a doctor from Ohio, Jack and it was obvious that she quickly falls head over heels for him. But he was nearly twice her age, and I sensed something about him that he was reluctant to fully embrace Tilly for whatever reason. Tilly builds connections with wounded soldiers during the war as similar to Jack she writes letters as dictated by the soldiers and promises to send them. This is her way of offering comfort when needed and she builds an emotional attachment to the job she has undertaken and this motivation and quest will be with her for the remainder of her life. This all highlights the importance of letter writing which is the dominant theme of the book around which the depth of Tilly’s story is interwoven.
Letters contain stories, messages and memories and things that could not be said in person to someone. We learn that Tilly established the paper house as a refuge for people where she can continue on the work she started in the war. People from all walks of life and for many varied reasons could come and pick up a pen and paper and pour their hearts out and each day Tilly would post those letters that could be sent and those that could not she kept safe. She was giving an emotional outlet to people but the reader is desperate to know the specific reasons for this and to this end I was always desperate to get back to chapters told from Tilly’s perspective. Tilly shows us how a small act of kindness can have consequences for generations. Letter writing is an art that can be painful but in going through the process it can lead to healing, forgiveness and understanding and as Kayla finds answers, she starts to connect things back to her own life and what has caused her distress and emotional baggage is slowly emerging and a new path may possibly be formed for her.
The Paper House was a bit of a mixed bag for me. On the one hand I loved Tilly’s story especially during the war but then on the other things were so vague and very abstract at times that I felt there needed to be something concrete to cling to and this was absent. I’m not sure was I the intended target audience for this one but as I had really enjoyed the authors recent historical fiction novels I wanted to give this one a go. I know there will be lots and lots of readers that will enjoy this story and take lots from it and enjoy the heartfelt and emotional message that it provides but for me it didn’t always hit the mark.
September 13, 2026
I love everything about “The Paper House” by Barbara Josselsohn, the Author. “The Paper House” is a captivating, memorable, heartfelt, and thought-provoking Historical Fiction novel with Magical Realism.
Do you think the pen is mightier than the sword? Once upon a time, I wrote all kinds of letters and notes by hand. I wrote to parents of the children in my class, concentrating on their positive strengths. I wrote Thank you notes and cards, Holiday Notes and Cards, Notes of Appreciation, Love notes,lists and more. There was no computer, and often I wrote letters to relatives that lived far away. If I were upset, I would write notes down and kept a diary. I loved pretty paper and pens and pencils of all colors. Recently after a 6 day stay in the hospital, I hand wrote a letter of appreciation and thanks to a Doctor that went above and beyond what other doctors did, and typed a letter on the computer and sent it to the Hospital Board. The children in my class wrote thank you notes to the Firefighters and Police on 9/11. There was magic in the writing, sending, and reading notes. This book resonates deeply with me, as I feel that the power of writing and keeping memories is so important.
Barbara Josselsohn vividly describes a quaint town, with older Historical homes. One of the homes had a special store where people would come to write letters and write their feelings and thoughts. The original owner would mail them, and those letters that were written to loved ones, not living anymore stayed in the shop. When Kayla’s great Aunt Tillie passes away, the house and store is inherited by Kayla. There are rumors of ghosts, and especially a baby ghost in the house. Ben, the man in the store across the street reminds Kayla of a young love. The author describes Great Aunt Tillie, and her life during the war, and how she helped a young doctor write letters for sick patients, and would say a Hebrew prayer. Kayla realizes that Tillie had secrets, and she finds clues in letters that Tillie wrote.
This is a well written book and well told story, with a magical feel. I highly recommend this book to others
Do you think the pen is mightier than the sword? Once upon a time, I wrote all kinds of letters and notes by hand. I wrote to parents of the children in my class, concentrating on their positive strengths. I wrote Thank you notes and cards, Holiday Notes and Cards, Notes of Appreciation, Love notes,lists and more. There was no computer, and often I wrote letters to relatives that lived far away. If I were upset, I would write notes down and kept a diary. I loved pretty paper and pens and pencils of all colors. Recently after a 6 day stay in the hospital, I hand wrote a letter of appreciation and thanks to a Doctor that went above and beyond what other doctors did, and typed a letter on the computer and sent it to the Hospital Board. The children in my class wrote thank you notes to the Firefighters and Police on 9/11. There was magic in the writing, sending, and reading notes. This book resonates deeply with me, as I feel that the power of writing and keeping memories is so important.
Barbara Josselsohn vividly describes a quaint town, with older Historical homes. One of the homes had a special store where people would come to write letters and write their feelings and thoughts. The original owner would mail them, and those letters that were written to loved ones, not living anymore stayed in the shop. When Kayla’s great Aunt Tillie passes away, the house and store is inherited by Kayla. There are rumors of ghosts, and especially a baby ghost in the house. Ben, the man in the store across the street reminds Kayla of a young love. The author describes Great Aunt Tillie, and her life during the war, and how she helped a young doctor write letters for sick patients, and would say a Hebrew prayer. Kayla realizes that Tillie had secrets, and she finds clues in letters that Tillie wrote.
This is a well written book and well told story, with a magical feel. I highly recommend this book to others
September 15, 2026
Such a good book! Through dual timelines the book follows the two main characters as they progress through some life decisions they must make. The characters are easy to like. They are vividly described as are the settings in the story. While in England during World War II Tilly volunteered to write letters back home for sick and injured soldiers. After she comes home after the war she writes her own letters to a man she fell in love with and who is no longer a part of her life. She realizes how cathartic writing the letters is for her and she thinks others will benefit from doing it too. She opens a shop providing a table, paper, pencils, ink and envelopes to those who need to write a letter to someone in their life who may or may not get the letter. Writing a letter provides a means for a person to put their feelings on paper. The business thrives and Tilly is able to keep the business open every day of the week for many years. When she dies, she leaves the business to her great-niece. She hopes Kayla will keep the business open, but Kayla isn’t sure she wants to do that and contemplates selling. This is historical fiction and women’s fiction combined into one book and is hard to put down.
September 5, 2026
Oh my goodness I couldn't have loved book any more! The writing was wonderful, the story was beautiful and I was invested from the very start. It was both heartbreaking yet hopeful, honest and heartwarming. I highly recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to enjoy this ARC.
September 12, 2026
A good friend (who is an author herself) told me about The Paper House and that I should ask for an ARC and I was lucky to get an early copy and I'm so happy I listened to my friend since The Paper House is one of my fav books of 2026!
I really love books that are set in more than one timeline and in this case we get 3 different timelines and all of them had very interesting plot and loveable characters. The first timeline is Tilly during WW2, the second and third timelines are both Kayla's, one during her first and only summer visit of her great aunt Tilly and one after her death when she returns to take care of her house and business "The Paper House" .
This isn't your typical book about WW2, and I loved the role letters had in the plot, there is an element of magical realism which I always enjoy in books.
The setting of the island really added to the story, and I was looking online to see if it's based on a true island but sadly it's a fiction place.
I don't want to give away too much of the plot so I will say that it's a book about love, family, the choices we make in life and above all the power of words and letters to heal us!
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really love books that are set in more than one timeline and in this case we get 3 different timelines and all of them had very interesting plot and loveable characters. The first timeline is Tilly during WW2, the second and third timelines are both Kayla's, one during her first and only summer visit of her great aunt Tilly and one after her death when she returns to take care of her house and business "The Paper House" .
This isn't your typical book about WW2, and I loved the role letters had in the plot, there is an element of magical realism which I always enjoy in books.
The setting of the island really added to the story, and I was looking online to see if it's based on a true island but sadly it's a fiction place.
I don't want to give away too much of the plot so I will say that it's a book about love, family, the choices we make in life and above all the power of words and letters to heal us!
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Trigger Warnings*: one closed door scene (with mainly kissing detail), off page death of a teenaged character, descriptions of traumatic injuries from war, pretty consistent themes of loss and regret.
I would like to thank Bookouture and Barbara Josselsohn for allowing me access to this ARC in exchange for my honest review! Thank yall!
The Paper House is a magical story of self discovery and personal redemption. The characters are faced with the choice to either face the ghosts of their pasts head on, or remain haunted by their intrusive memories. Bridging the gap between years gone by and the here and now, is truly where the magic is born.
This story is written through the perspectives of both Kayla and her great aunt Tilly. Not only that, but both characters also have separate timelines. Kayla's viewpoints occur in modern times between 2004 and 2024, and Tilly's occurs mainly during the last year of World War II.
I am not going to lie, split timelines in books are not my favorite as I tend to find it difficult to keep up with all the details and where the timelines intersect. That being said, I thought Barbara managed the timelines nicely in this book. The only time I had any real issue was when flashbacks happened in the same chapter. For example, there was a moment with Kayla where a character was trying to talk with her but she goes into this multi-page jump into her past. At first, I thought there was some sort of typo, until she was pulled back into the present where the other character had been waiting for her attention. It felt a bit awkward, but still it was not so bad.
The majority of the story is set within the town situated on Celestine Island, part of Long Island Sound of New York, USA. While New York City has been the main stage for multiple books I have read, this was the first that took place on one of these smaller islands. The familiar hustle and bustle of The Big Apple has disappeared, lending attention to the quaint and peaceful setting of this coastal town where everyone knows everyone else.
On the flip side, Tilly's chapters predominately take place in various parts of Europe during WWII. She had an administrative job in which she transcribed reports from France so she begins at a central headquarters north of London. At one point, she is called to a medical tent closer to the front lines, assisting with triage efforts. The juxtaposition between the two settings could not have been more poetic. Going from relative peace, to witnessing the casualties of war first hand was whiplashing (in a good way).
It was during her tenure in the war effort that pushed her to discover the magic of writing letters. One of her responsibilities included transcribing letters for the wounded to be delivered to their families back home. There was no way she could guarantee the letters would make it to their intended destination all the time, but the fact their words were written down nonetheless was what ultimately mattered. This idea is what spawned The Paper House.
Tilly wanted to share this therapeutic past time with others so she opened up her paper supplies store on Celestine Island. It was here that anyone could come in and pen letters to anyone that may have needed some sort of closure. People would write to estranged family members, long lost friends and even those who had already passed on. Tilly would either mail the ones with known addresses, or stockpile the ones with none.
Personally, I love the whole idea of healing through writing. It can truly become a much needed remedy for the more heavier and ever-present emotions. As mentioned in the book, grammar and spelling matters very little when it comes to just getting your thoughts on the paper. So beautiful!
As far as characters are concerned, both Kayla and Tilly had their own ways of dealing with their own traumas and emotional baggage. Tilly had the mindset of dealing with things head on, while Kayla was more avoidant of anything that caused her emotional pain. I appreciated that difference in mentality between these two. With Tilly being the older great-aunt to Kayla, there were so many examples of her wisdom being used within Kayla's own life. Their relationship was definitely rocky at times but the legacy that was left and will, without a doubt continue, was one the most beautiful aspects from this book.
There are three different romantic plots that occur in this book. These endeavors cover both women and take place at different periods of time. What I appreciated about these different stories was the reality that not every love story has an ideal happy ending. While it is unfortunate, that is reality and I appreciated the honesty and raw emotions these situations brought out.
There is one relationship I was not the biggest fan of and that was between Kayla and Evan. I found their attraction to each other to be hot and cold, particularly where Kayla is concerned. They had only known each other for a couple days before they decided to escalate into a physical moment. For someone who was planning on going back to her life in D.C, I could not help but feel like Kayla was stringing Evan along and vice versa. While I can understand the high emotions that were running through Kayla, this is definitely not the best time to jump in any sort of relationship, especially when she still had lingering feelings about her first love, who Ben just so happens to remind her of.
All in all, I found The Paper House to be a quite inspirational and emotional read. While it is difficult for me to cry while reading, there were some scenes that had me tearing up a bit, definitely feeling the burn in my sinuses. Just keep some tissues on hand perhaps! I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys magical realism featuring split timelines with historical fiction and romantic elements.
Once again, thank you to Barbara Josselsohn, Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinions! Thank you.
I would like to thank Bookouture and Barbara Josselsohn for allowing me access to this ARC in exchange for my honest review! Thank yall!
The Paper House is a magical story of self discovery and personal redemption. The characters are faced with the choice to either face the ghosts of their pasts head on, or remain haunted by their intrusive memories. Bridging the gap between years gone by and the here and now, is truly where the magic is born.
This story is written through the perspectives of both Kayla and her great aunt Tilly. Not only that, but both characters also have separate timelines. Kayla's viewpoints occur in modern times between 2004 and 2024, and Tilly's occurs mainly during the last year of World War II.
I am not going to lie, split timelines in books are not my favorite as I tend to find it difficult to keep up with all the details and where the timelines intersect. That being said, I thought Barbara managed the timelines nicely in this book. The only time I had any real issue was when flashbacks happened in the same chapter. For example, there was a moment with Kayla where a character was trying to talk with her but she goes into this multi-page jump into her past. At first, I thought there was some sort of typo, until she was pulled back into the present where the other character had been waiting for her attention. It felt a bit awkward, but still it was not so bad.
The majority of the story is set within the town situated on Celestine Island, part of Long Island Sound of New York, USA. While New York City has been the main stage for multiple books I have read, this was the first that took place on one of these smaller islands. The familiar hustle and bustle of The Big Apple has disappeared, lending attention to the quaint and peaceful setting of this coastal town where everyone knows everyone else.
On the flip side, Tilly's chapters predominately take place in various parts of Europe during WWII. She had an administrative job in which she transcribed reports from France so she begins at a central headquarters north of London. At one point, she is called to a medical tent closer to the front lines, assisting with triage efforts. The juxtaposition between the two settings could not have been more poetic. Going from relative peace, to witnessing the casualties of war first hand was whiplashing (in a good way).
It was during her tenure in the war effort that pushed her to discover the magic of writing letters. One of her responsibilities included transcribing letters for the wounded to be delivered to their families back home. There was no way she could guarantee the letters would make it to their intended destination all the time, but the fact their words were written down nonetheless was what ultimately mattered. This idea is what spawned The Paper House.
Tilly wanted to share this therapeutic past time with others so she opened up her paper supplies store on Celestine Island. It was here that anyone could come in and pen letters to anyone that may have needed some sort of closure. People would write to estranged family members, long lost friends and even those who had already passed on. Tilly would either mail the ones with known addresses, or stockpile the ones with none.
Personally, I love the whole idea of healing through writing. It can truly become a much needed remedy for the more heavier and ever-present emotions. As mentioned in the book, grammar and spelling matters very little when it comes to just getting your thoughts on the paper. So beautiful!
As far as characters are concerned, both Kayla and Tilly had their own ways of dealing with their own traumas and emotional baggage. Tilly had the mindset of dealing with things head on, while Kayla was more avoidant of anything that caused her emotional pain. I appreciated that difference in mentality between these two. With Tilly being the older great-aunt to Kayla, there were so many examples of her wisdom being used within Kayla's own life. Their relationship was definitely rocky at times but the legacy that was left and will, without a doubt continue, was one the most beautiful aspects from this book.
There are three different romantic plots that occur in this book. These endeavors cover both women and take place at different periods of time. What I appreciated about these different stories was the reality that not every love story has an ideal happy ending. While it is unfortunate, that is reality and I appreciated the honesty and raw emotions these situations brought out.
There is one relationship I was not the biggest fan of and that was between Kayla and Evan. I found their attraction to each other to be hot and cold, particularly where Kayla is concerned. They had only known each other for a couple days before they decided to escalate into a physical moment. For someone who was planning on going back to her life in D.C, I could not help but feel like Kayla was stringing Evan along and vice versa. While I can understand the high emotions that were running through Kayla, this is definitely not the best time to jump in any sort of relationship, especially when she still had lingering feelings about her first love, who Ben just so happens to remind her of.
All in all, I found The Paper House to be a quite inspirational and emotional read. While it is difficult for me to cry while reading, there were some scenes that had me tearing up a bit, definitely feeling the burn in my sinuses. Just keep some tissues on hand perhaps! I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys magical realism featuring split timelines with historical fiction and romantic elements.
Once again, thank you to Barbara Josselsohn, Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinions! Thank you.
August 24, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
If you liked The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston and The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, this one might be for you.
This is a dual-timeline story, moving between 1944 and 2024, and overall it was a very easy read. What I enjoyed most was the 1944 timeline, with World War II happening in the background. There’s something about seeing the characters’ lives unfold against the backdrop of the war that I found much more compelling than the present-day storyline. It also has a little bit of that magical realism-ish feeling, although everything is ultimately explainable, so I’m not even sure if magical realism is the right term. Maybe what reminded me of The Seven Year Slip was more the idea of inheriting a place from a relative and discovering that there’s more to it than meets the eye.
One thing I really loved was the inclusion of excerpts from letters. I’m always a sucker for books that incorporate letters, and I liked getting those little pieces of the past directly from the characters themselves.
That said, I did sometimes struggle to follow the writing. I know I called this an easy read, but there were moments where I found the diction a little difficult to follow and had to go back and reread a sentence or paragraph a couple of times. Maybe that’s a me problem and my brain simply wasn’t cooperating, but it did happen often enough for me to notice.
And then there are the ghosts.
I don’t know if hate is too strong a word, but there were simply too many ghosts and ghost references for me. It even veered a little too close to Ghostbusters territory at times, and I was like… no. 😭 It felt unnecessary to me and took away from the parts of the story I actually enjoyed.
But Tilly. Oh, I love Tilly so much.
She’s exactly the kind of eccentric old lady character you can’t help but adore. She’s loving and tender, and there’s something so comforting about her presence. I honestly would have happily read much more about her.
Which brings me to my biggest complaint: I wanted more Tilly and more of her story.
The book touches on her past and her life during the war, but only briefly, and I found myself craving so much more. The 1944 setting was one of my favourite parts of the book, so I would have loved to see more of Tilly’s life before and during the war. It has historical fiction elements because of the 1944 setting and the WWII backdrop, but I wouldn’t necessarily call it a full-blown historical fiction novel.
There are also some lovely lines throughout, including:
“You can know someone for a day and love them for the rest of your life.”
And:
“Ghosts are for the past. And for fun. And for humor. They belong in places like darkened staircases. They don’t belong inside of us.”
Despite my complaints, I thought the story wrapped up nicely. No loose ends hanging around, and everything felt satisfactorily resolved by the end.
Overall, an easy and enjoyable read with a lovely dual timeline, a historical backdrop I wish had been explored more, and one eccentric old lady I absolutely adored. I only wish the book had given me more of Tilly and less of the ghosts.
If you liked The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston and The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, this one might be for you.
This is a dual-timeline story, moving between 1944 and 2024, and overall it was a very easy read. What I enjoyed most was the 1944 timeline, with World War II happening in the background. There’s something about seeing the characters’ lives unfold against the backdrop of the war that I found much more compelling than the present-day storyline. It also has a little bit of that magical realism-ish feeling, although everything is ultimately explainable, so I’m not even sure if magical realism is the right term. Maybe what reminded me of The Seven Year Slip was more the idea of inheriting a place from a relative and discovering that there’s more to it than meets the eye.
One thing I really loved was the inclusion of excerpts from letters. I’m always a sucker for books that incorporate letters, and I liked getting those little pieces of the past directly from the characters themselves.
That said, I did sometimes struggle to follow the writing. I know I called this an easy read, but there were moments where I found the diction a little difficult to follow and had to go back and reread a sentence or paragraph a couple of times. Maybe that’s a me problem and my brain simply wasn’t cooperating, but it did happen often enough for me to notice.
And then there are the ghosts.
I don’t know if hate is too strong a word, but there were simply too many ghosts and ghost references for me. It even veered a little too close to Ghostbusters territory at times, and I was like… no. 😭 It felt unnecessary to me and took away from the parts of the story I actually enjoyed.
But Tilly. Oh, I love Tilly so much.
She’s exactly the kind of eccentric old lady character you can’t help but adore. She’s loving and tender, and there’s something so comforting about her presence. I honestly would have happily read much more about her.
Which brings me to my biggest complaint: I wanted more Tilly and more of her story.
The book touches on her past and her life during the war, but only briefly, and I found myself craving so much more. The 1944 setting was one of my favourite parts of the book, so I would have loved to see more of Tilly’s life before and during the war. It has historical fiction elements because of the 1944 setting and the WWII backdrop, but I wouldn’t necessarily call it a full-blown historical fiction novel.
There are also some lovely lines throughout, including:
“You can know someone for a day and love them for the rest of your life.”
And:
“Ghosts are for the past. And for fun. And for humor. They belong in places like darkened staircases. They don’t belong inside of us.”
Despite my complaints, I thought the story wrapped up nicely. No loose ends hanging around, and everything felt satisfactorily resolved by the end.
Overall, an easy and enjoyable read with a lovely dual timeline, a historical backdrop I wish had been explored more, and one eccentric old lady I absolutely adored. I only wish the book had given me more of Tilly and less of the ghosts.
August 29, 2026
This was a charming, heartwarming novel which was almost perfect. I just wish the publisher would eliminate "page-turner" as a description. While it is captivating, calling a novel a "page-turner" is what is done with thrillers. This is not a thriller but readers might believe it is. In addition, the cover is ambiguous; the white house on it is eerie but the cover has a flower border, which is not. The book wants to be too many things (which is why it is not quite perfect) and the cover confirms this.
This is predominantly a work of historical fiction. It has a dual timeline: 1944 and present day. This tells the story of Tilly, who has a secret, and opens a store on Celestine Island that sells stationery and accoutrements so that people can write letters. It is Tilly that we see in 1944. Her niece, Kayla, who had stayed with Tilly for one summer is back visiting and is struggling to figure out her life and whether she should take up the mantle of running the store or letting it go.
There are romances and ghosts. The romances were fine though I think there could have been a little less of that. I think Tilly's romance way back when was absolutely necessary as it explains why she opened this store which wonderfully goes against modern technology with letter writing as a mechanism for communication, whether it is to others or to ourselves. I thought that Kayla's romance with Evan was superfluous and did not really add to the story.
I was torn about the ghosts. This book is categorized as magical realism in addition to historical fiction because of the ghosts. I usually love magical realism and have recently gotten into the paranormal. I think the ghosts have a definite purpose in the novel but somehow something was lacking with respect to them. So then the question would be whether to take them out or make something more of them. As I said, I do think the ghosts have a purpose here so I think more could have been made of them. This gorgeous piece of prose gets to the heart of the connection between the ghosts and the characters in the novel. “Ghosts are for the past. And for fun. And for humor. They belong in places like darkened staircases. They don’t belong inside of us.” That was my favorite line in the whole book. I would have loved to seen more of this. It doesn't need to be (and shouldn't be) a ghost story but I think we just needed a little more of this.
Nevertheless, this was a wonderful book, full of emotion without being maudlin, full of wonderful characters who were flawed but who were good people. It was a change from many books which I have read lately with unlikeable characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with early access to this book. All of the opinions herein are my own. Four and a half stars.
This is predominantly a work of historical fiction. It has a dual timeline: 1944 and present day. This tells the story of Tilly, who has a secret, and opens a store on Celestine Island that sells stationery and accoutrements so that people can write letters. It is Tilly that we see in 1944. Her niece, Kayla, who had stayed with Tilly for one summer is back visiting and is struggling to figure out her life and whether she should take up the mantle of running the store or letting it go.
There are romances and ghosts. The romances were fine though I think there could have been a little less of that. I think Tilly's romance way back when was absolutely necessary as it explains why she opened this store which wonderfully goes against modern technology with letter writing as a mechanism for communication, whether it is to others or to ourselves. I thought that Kayla's romance with Evan was superfluous and did not really add to the story.
I was torn about the ghosts. This book is categorized as magical realism in addition to historical fiction because of the ghosts. I usually love magical realism and have recently gotten into the paranormal. I think the ghosts have a definite purpose in the novel but somehow something was lacking with respect to them. So then the question would be whether to take them out or make something more of them. As I said, I do think the ghosts have a purpose here so I think more could have been made of them. This gorgeous piece of prose gets to the heart of the connection between the ghosts and the characters in the novel. “Ghosts are for the past. And for fun. And for humor. They belong in places like darkened staircases. They don’t belong inside of us.” That was my favorite line in the whole book. I would have loved to seen more of this. It doesn't need to be (and shouldn't be) a ghost story but I think we just needed a little more of this.
Nevertheless, this was a wonderful book, full of emotion without being maudlin, full of wonderful characters who were flawed but who were good people. It was a change from many books which I have read lately with unlikeable characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with early access to this book. All of the opinions herein are my own. Four and a half stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Netgalley for this advanced reader copy, after initially reading the synopsis and being very intrigued i was very glad i requested this. This type of books reminds us what's really important in life and i can even feel my eyes tearing up as i have just finished this book, its very emotionally moving.
Tilly is a selfless main character who falls in love set in the 1940's and in the war time something's don't always work out . One thing that was clearly striking about this book is what we leave behind us and people don't forget us no matter how big or small and that it all fits together as part of a bigger picture. This is the historic part of the book, that is discovered.
We then meet her Niece Kayla who stays one summer as a teenager and it has a massive impact on her life bigger than what you realise, and its not the time spent that has the impact. The words unsaid in this book made me really emotional and i would be surprised if anyone reading this book doesn't feel moved by the deepness of it.
Yes the book is sad in parts but it gives a deep meaning that leads to better things, it gives reflection on not making those mistakes, not saying those words or being honest can make us feel so much worse by holding it all in. The letters are beautiful and i love how the author has captivated the generation of writing letters as they can be kept and looked at. Very sad and emotionally provoking for me but beautiful and a journey along the way.
Tilly is remarkable and all those years she spent emotionally suffering, hard to read but also reflects on the era and how people had to put on a stern brave face to meet society's harsh expectations.
Kayla who inherits the shop has to deal with alot and at times she doesn't want to face it but what i loved is that she realises that it doesn't have to be that way, she discovered alot and incredibly sad but it moulds us as people to make sure we say whose words, be honest and live life to the fullest!
I loved how the book has self forgiveness for someone who doesnt have great parents, it shows us that something that has been harmful can no longer harm us in the future. A beautiful read and sad at the same time in parts.
Tilly is a selfless main character who falls in love set in the 1940's and in the war time something's don't always work out . One thing that was clearly striking about this book is what we leave behind us and people don't forget us no matter how big or small and that it all fits together as part of a bigger picture. This is the historic part of the book, that is discovered.
We then meet her Niece Kayla who stays one summer as a teenager and it has a massive impact on her life bigger than what you realise, and its not the time spent that has the impact. The words unsaid in this book made me really emotional and i would be surprised if anyone reading this book doesn't feel moved by the deepness of it.
Yes the book is sad in parts but it gives a deep meaning that leads to better things, it gives reflection on not making those mistakes, not saying those words or being honest can make us feel so much worse by holding it all in. The letters are beautiful and i love how the author has captivated the generation of writing letters as they can be kept and looked at. Very sad and emotionally provoking for me but beautiful and a journey along the way.
Tilly is remarkable and all those years she spent emotionally suffering, hard to read but also reflects on the era and how people had to put on a stern brave face to meet society's harsh expectations.
Kayla who inherits the shop has to deal with alot and at times she doesn't want to face it but what i loved is that she realises that it doesn't have to be that way, she discovered alot and incredibly sad but it moulds us as people to make sure we say whose words, be honest and live life to the fullest!
I loved how the book has self forgiveness for someone who doesnt have great parents, it shows us that something that has been harmful can no longer harm us in the future. A beautiful read and sad at the same time in parts.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Kayla is at her friends wedding in Washington DC when she gets a phone call to say there are police at her aunt's shop, The Paper House, on Celestine Island in New York, after reports of strange findings in the attic. Tilly died recently and left the shop to Kayla, her only remaining relative, but Kayla hasn't been back to the island for twenty years, not since spending the summer there when she was sixteen and she knows going back will dredge up what happened back then. The Paper House is very special to so many on the island, full of colourful paper, pots of pens everywhere, not just for sale but for people to sit and write to their loved ones, to those they never got to say goodbye to and to those they want to come home, it's a magical place where people go to grieve, remember and forgive and now Kayla has to decide on the future of the place that Tilly created for the close knit Celestine community.
The Paper House is the latest novel by this author, told in multiple timelines between 1944, 2004 and present day and from the perspectives of Tilly and Kayla. This is a captivating and emotional read that highlights the effectiveness of communication, in a world that is now swamped with social media, text messaging and emails, the act of writing letters, popping a stamp on an envelope and dropping it in the post box is becoming a thing of the past, but to many, as shown in this story, there isn't always someone to receive it at the other end and just the act of sitting and writing to their loved ones brought them peace, comfort and, sometimes release from their own pain. I loved the whole concept of this book, the setting on Long Island sounded breathtaking, the inclusion of some of the letters that were written, the way the story dipped back and forth between timelines and told both of the women's stories and the secrets they kept, both Tilly and Kayla were adorable and I was totally invested in their love, losses and the grief that followed. This is a new to me author but I will definitely be looking out for more of her work in the future.
I'd like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
The Paper House is the latest novel by this author, told in multiple timelines between 1944, 2004 and present day and from the perspectives of Tilly and Kayla. This is a captivating and emotional read that highlights the effectiveness of communication, in a world that is now swamped with social media, text messaging and emails, the act of writing letters, popping a stamp on an envelope and dropping it in the post box is becoming a thing of the past, but to many, as shown in this story, there isn't always someone to receive it at the other end and just the act of sitting and writing to their loved ones brought them peace, comfort and, sometimes release from their own pain. I loved the whole concept of this book, the setting on Long Island sounded breathtaking, the inclusion of some of the letters that were written, the way the story dipped back and forth between timelines and told both of the women's stories and the secrets they kept, both Tilly and Kayla were adorable and I was totally invested in their love, losses and the grief that followed. This is a new to me author but I will definitely be looking out for more of her work in the future.
I'd like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paper House is a tender, imaginative novel that feels like stepping into a place where grief, memory, and a touch of magic all coexist in the same warm glow. The shop itself is enchanting — shelves of colourful paper, pots of ink, ribbons suspended like little spells waiting to be chosen — but its true magic lies in what people bring to it. Tilly’s rumoured ability to send letters to long‑lost loved ones gives the Paper House a quiet, aching beauty. It becomes a sanctuary for the island: a place to write the words you never got to say, to hope for homecomings, to forgive, to remember.
Kayla’s return years later is handled with lovely emotional subtlety. Opening the door again feels like stepping back into her childhood, into the presence of her Great Aunt Tilly, and into a space that once held the island’s collective heartache. The author captures that moment of reconnection beautifully — the mix of nostalgia, longing, and fear that comes with facing the ghosts you’ve tried to outrun. As Kayla begins to rebuild the Paper House, the story gently becomes one of self‑discovery, healing, and learning to trust the magic of community again.
The novel’s atmosphere is soft and luminous, full of imagination without ever losing its emotional grounding. The idea of writing letters to those who are gone — not for answers, but for release — gives the book a lovely thematic thread. It’s a story about the ways we carry loss, and how small acts of creativity can help stitch something whole again.
Warm, whimsical, and full of heart, The Paper House is a captivating read for anyone who loves stories where magic is woven into everyday life and healing happens one letter at a time.
With thanks to Barbara Josselsohn, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Kayla’s return years later is handled with lovely emotional subtlety. Opening the door again feels like stepping back into her childhood, into the presence of her Great Aunt Tilly, and into a space that once held the island’s collective heartache. The author captures that moment of reconnection beautifully — the mix of nostalgia, longing, and fear that comes with facing the ghosts you’ve tried to outrun. As Kayla begins to rebuild the Paper House, the story gently becomes one of self‑discovery, healing, and learning to trust the magic of community again.
The novel’s atmosphere is soft and luminous, full of imagination without ever losing its emotional grounding. The idea of writing letters to those who are gone — not for answers, but for release — gives the book a lovely thematic thread. It’s a story about the ways we carry loss, and how small acts of creativity can help stitch something whole again.
Warm, whimsical, and full of heart, The Paper House is a captivating read for anyone who loves stories where magic is woven into everyday life and healing happens one letter at a time.
With thanks to Barbara Josselsohn, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
August 31, 2026
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC - all opinions are my own!
The positives: love the premise of this book - dual POV between WWII and present day. Familial mystery and intrigue. Cozy small town on the coast. A love story.
Unfortunately, my descriptions of the positives of this book are as surface level as the content. I felt like there was just something missing here. The WWII romance was bizarre and though Tilly calls it being “truly in love” - likening it to the heartbreak her father experienced losing his WIFE and mother of his children - it was a teenager pining after a work colleague twice her age who shut it down almost immediately. A lot of the WWII content also felt under researched to me, there was just not enough detail there to ground me to the plot. Back on the island, the shop mystified me. From the summary flap, I 100% expected this to be magical realism and it absolutely was not. Then the sprinkling in of the ghost stories felt forced and very out of place. I just couldn’t grasp the romance, emotion, or practicality of this store. And finally, our girl Kayla - sigh. Estranged niece who knew her aunt for 2 months and then ghosted her for two decades has the audacity to be annoyed that her great aunt didn’t divulge her deepest secrets to a 16 year old virtual stranger and never reaches the emotional maturity to reach out in any capacity.
I felt like this plot has a lot of solid foundations and ingredients but really needed to be taken a few levels deeper to unlock the emotion it was capable of. It needed to choose a few things to focus in on instead of trying to do it all! I know some people will love this book, and hope they do! Unfortunately it wasn’t for me.
The positives: love the premise of this book - dual POV between WWII and present day. Familial mystery and intrigue. Cozy small town on the coast. A love story.
Unfortunately, my descriptions of the positives of this book are as surface level as the content. I felt like there was just something missing here. The WWII romance was bizarre and though Tilly calls it being “truly in love” - likening it to the heartbreak her father experienced losing his WIFE and mother of his children - it was a teenager pining after a work colleague twice her age who shut it down almost immediately. A lot of the WWII content also felt under researched to me, there was just not enough detail there to ground me to the plot. Back on the island, the shop mystified me. From the summary flap, I 100% expected this to be magical realism and it absolutely was not. Then the sprinkling in of the ghost stories felt forced and very out of place. I just couldn’t grasp the romance, emotion, or practicality of this store. And finally, our girl Kayla - sigh. Estranged niece who knew her aunt for 2 months and then ghosted her for two decades has the audacity to be annoyed that her great aunt didn’t divulge her deepest secrets to a 16 year old virtual stranger and never reaches the emotional maturity to reach out in any capacity.
I felt like this plot has a lot of solid foundations and ingredients but really needed to be taken a few levels deeper to unlock the emotion it was capable of. It needed to choose a few things to focus in on instead of trying to do it all! I know some people will love this book, and hope they do! Unfortunately it wasn’t for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paper House was such a wonderful story! I loved the paper shop, with all the writing goodies and letters to long-lost loved ones. The idea of having a place where people could say all the things that were left unsaid was so touching.
I really liked Kayla’s story of reopening the shop once owned by her aunt, Tilly. I also liked seeing her uncover the secrets surrounding the Paper House while reconciling her own past. Kayla was such an easy character to care about, and Tilly’s presence and history gave the story even more emotional depth.
This book did leave me with a bit of a rating quandary, though! LOL! I absolutely LOVE magical realism, but I don’t enjoy reading anything involving ghosts or the paranormal. While I loved the magical qualities of the letters and the Paper House itself, the actual ghostly elements weren’t really for me and occasionally took me out of the story. That is entirely a matter of personal preference, though, and not a criticism of how those parts were written. Readers who enjoy both magical realism and gentle ghost stories will probably love that aspect!
Despite my feelings about the ghosts, I truly loved the rest of the book. It made me think about the things left unspoken and how healing it can be to put those feelings into writing. The Paper House was atmospheric, emotional, imaginative, and filled with SO much heart.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I really liked Kayla’s story of reopening the shop once owned by her aunt, Tilly. I also liked seeing her uncover the secrets surrounding the Paper House while reconciling her own past. Kayla was such an easy character to care about, and Tilly’s presence and history gave the story even more emotional depth.
This book did leave me with a bit of a rating quandary, though! LOL! I absolutely LOVE magical realism, but I don’t enjoy reading anything involving ghosts or the paranormal. While I loved the magical qualities of the letters and the Paper House itself, the actual ghostly elements weren’t really for me and occasionally took me out of the story. That is entirely a matter of personal preference, though, and not a criticism of how those parts were written. Readers who enjoy both magical realism and gentle ghost stories will probably love that aspect!
Despite my feelings about the ghosts, I truly loved the rest of the book. It made me think about the things left unspoken and how healing it can be to put those feelings into writing. The Paper House was atmospheric, emotional, imaginative, and filled with SO much heart.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 24, 2026
Writing letters is becoming an lost art form but Barbara Josselsohn has beautifully written The Paper House to show us why it is so important to keep writing them. The book reminds us that putting ink on paper isn't just about sharing news- it's a way to offer comfort and hold space for one another. It's to write through emotions even when there is no one to give it to. In a time where we are sending text and emails she reminds us how important it is to sit down and create.
Through characters like Tilly and Jack, who made space for others, who took the time to make sure that soldiers felt seen and supported, shows us how important kindness and compassion can be. How Tilly spent the rest of her life holding space for others. Giving them a place where they were seen and heard. Shows us the importance of unapologetic, steady empathy in a world that is always rushing past. Tilly's legacy proves that simply being there, listening, and making someone feel valued is one of the most profound gifts we can ever give.
Tilly's story is a beautiful reminder that you don't need grand gestures to change a life, sometimes all it takes is a listening ear and a willingness to care.
I loved this story and it's such a gorgeous reminder of how intentional we have to be to make sure that the people around us feel valued.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Barbara Josselsohn for this advance reader. This is an honest review and all opinions are my own.
Through characters like Tilly and Jack, who made space for others, who took the time to make sure that soldiers felt seen and supported, shows us how important kindness and compassion can be. How Tilly spent the rest of her life holding space for others. Giving them a place where they were seen and heard. Shows us the importance of unapologetic, steady empathy in a world that is always rushing past. Tilly's legacy proves that simply being there, listening, and making someone feel valued is one of the most profound gifts we can ever give.
Tilly's story is a beautiful reminder that you don't need grand gestures to change a life, sometimes all it takes is a listening ear and a willingness to care.
I loved this story and it's such a gorgeous reminder of how intentional we have to be to make sure that the people around us feel valued.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Barbara Josselsohn for this advance reader. This is an honest review and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really wanted to love The Paper House because the concept is beautiful. The idea of a place where people can write letters to those they’ve lost is beautiful and compelling. I also enjoyed the dual timelines and the underlying themes of grief, love, forgiveness, and healing.
Unfortunately, for me, the execution didn’t quite live up to the premise.
I found the writing to be somewhat repetitive. There were so many flashbacks to events from years earlier that I sometimes felt like the story was circling around the information rather than moving us forward. In fact, I found myself wishing the author had simply written a prologue covering some of that history. It would have allowed the story to establish the important background upfront instead of repeatedly going back and explaining pieces of it throughout the book.
That said, I did appreciate the emotional heart of the book. The Paper House itself is such a lovely idea, and I think there is a really touching story underneath everything.
For me, this was a case where I loved the concept much more than I loved the execution. I can absolutely see why the premise will appeal to readers who enjoy emotional family stories, dual timelines, romance, and a touch of magical realism. Unfortunately, the repetition and structure made it difficult for me to become as invested in the story as I wanted to be.
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy!
Unfortunately, for me, the execution didn’t quite live up to the premise.
I found the writing to be somewhat repetitive. There were so many flashbacks to events from years earlier that I sometimes felt like the story was circling around the information rather than moving us forward. In fact, I found myself wishing the author had simply written a prologue covering some of that history. It would have allowed the story to establish the important background upfront instead of repeatedly going back and explaining pieces of it throughout the book.
That said, I did appreciate the emotional heart of the book. The Paper House itself is such a lovely idea, and I think there is a really touching story underneath everything.
For me, this was a case where I loved the concept much more than I loved the execution. I can absolutely see why the premise will appeal to readers who enjoy emotional family stories, dual timelines, romance, and a touch of magical realism. Unfortunately, the repetition and structure made it difficult for me to become as invested in the story as I wanted to be.
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such a beautiful, cozy read. I loved the small-town setting, the dual POV between Tilly and Kayla, and the magic surrounding The Paper House and the handwritten letters that somehow find their way to the people who need them.
There are so many meaningful layers to this story—grief, lost loved ones, reconnection, forgiveness, closure, and ultimately finding your way home. I especially loved discovering Tilly’s story and understanding why she made it her mission to protect these letters and make sure they reached their recipients. Kayla’s journey of piecing everything together, reconnecting with the past, and discovering what home truly means to her was equally beautiful.
The handwritten letters made this one feel especially nostalgic for me. I still love writing birthday cards and little handwritten notes whenever I get the chance (and yes, I still write in cursive!), so I really connected with the idea that words written by hand can carry so much meaning.
This story gave me hope, comfort, closure, and that warm nostalgic feeling I love finding in a book. Beautifully written and full of heart and a little bit of magic.
There are so many meaningful layers to this story—grief, lost loved ones, reconnection, forgiveness, closure, and ultimately finding your way home. I especially loved discovering Tilly’s story and understanding why she made it her mission to protect these letters and make sure they reached their recipients. Kayla’s journey of piecing everything together, reconnecting with the past, and discovering what home truly means to her was equally beautiful.
The handwritten letters made this one feel especially nostalgic for me. I still love writing birthday cards and little handwritten notes whenever I get the chance (and yes, I still write in cursive!), so I really connected with the idea that words written by hand can carry so much meaning.
This story gave me hope, comfort, closure, and that warm nostalgic feeling I love finding in a book. Beautifully written and full of heart and a little bit of magic.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
When Kayla steps into The Paper House, a beloved store filled with vibrant colored paper, ribbons, and ink, a flood of memories of her Great Aunt Tilly rushes back. The store holds a magical allure, a place where locals gather to select the perfect paper for writing heartfelt letters to those they’ve lost. With its exquisite writing tools, The Paper House becomes a sanctuary for closure, offering a space for grieving, forgiving, and expressing love one last time.
“The Paper House,” an enchanting and captivating tale by Barbara Josselsohn, transports readers through time. This time-slip novel captivates with its storytelling, drawing me into Kayla’s world and her cherished memories of Great Aunt Tilly.
I devoured this phenomenal story in one sitting, entranced by its enchanting blend of past, present, and a hopeful future. This book completely captivated my heart, leaving me with a profound sense of wonder and admiration. I highly recommend this ten-star read to anyone seeking a captivating and emotionally resonant literary experience.
Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/PaperHouse
“The Paper House,” an enchanting and captivating tale by Barbara Josselsohn, transports readers through time. This time-slip novel captivates with its storytelling, drawing me into Kayla’s world and her cherished memories of Great Aunt Tilly.
I devoured this phenomenal story in one sitting, entranced by its enchanting blend of past, present, and a hopeful future. This book completely captivated my heart, leaving me with a profound sense of wonder and admiration. I highly recommend this ten-star read to anyone seeking a captivating and emotionally resonant literary experience.
Grab your copy today!! https://amazn.so/PaperHouse
September 6, 2026
This book is a beautiful multi-generational, multi-timeline story centered around The Paper House. Inside The Paper House, people can step back in time to write letters on beautiful stationery, with all of the pens, ribbons, papers, and decorations that they could ever imagine.
Yet it's far more than a stationery store, as it's a place to sit and write and be with your community. Even if you're writing to those who have long passed, or who you have no way to send the letter to, the act of writing the letter makes a huge difference to you.
Yet this shop is shrouded in mystery, and the new owner has to figure out what happened, and make big decisions about the future, both for herself and for the store.
This story is very well written, yet it includes lots of heartbreak, pain, and regret. It includes wartime stories and general life, and definitely makes me feel like I should have been reading it on paper, instead of an electronic device! Overall a wonderful story, with love, loss, family, friends, and mystery all rolled into one.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
Yet it's far more than a stationery store, as it's a place to sit and write and be with your community. Even if you're writing to those who have long passed, or who you have no way to send the letter to, the act of writing the letter makes a huge difference to you.
Yet this shop is shrouded in mystery, and the new owner has to figure out what happened, and make big decisions about the future, both for herself and for the store.
This story is very well written, yet it includes lots of heartbreak, pain, and regret. It includes wartime stories and general life, and definitely makes me feel like I should have been reading it on paper, instead of an electronic device! Overall a wonderful story, with love, loss, family, friends, and mystery all rolled into one.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m a sucker for magical realism and a dual timeline, so The Paper House had me from the start. Add in an old-fashioned paper shop, handwritten letters, and the magic of words traveling from one person to another, and you’ve pretty much found my weakness.
I especially loved the appreciation for letter writing and beautiful stationery. There’s something so wonderfully personal about putting pen to paper and as a certified stationery girlie, I will always happily champion the lost art of a handwritten letter.
A charming, magical, beautifully nostalgic read that reminded me why I love stories that blur the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Barbara Josselsohn for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I especially loved the appreciation for letter writing and beautiful stationery. There’s something so wonderfully personal about putting pen to paper and as a certified stationery girlie, I will always happily champion the lost art of a handwritten letter.
A charming, magical, beautifully nostalgic read that reminded me why I love stories that blur the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Barbara Josselsohn for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a well written dual timeline story that alternates between 1944 and 2024. The 1944 timeline features Tilly. She spends her time during the war going to the hospital to write letters for the wounded soldiers. She sees the benefit of the letters in helping the soldiers, as well as the the comfort they can provide for their loved ones.
The 2024 timeline features Tilly's niece, Kayla. Kayla has returned to town to deal with Tilly's letter writing and stationery business she has inherited upon Tilly's death. There are lots of secrets that that come to light about Tilly's past and also Kayla's. As you might expect, there are also letters. Letters of loss, love, longing and forgiveness. Beautiful words and beautiful thoughts. Beautiful book. There's so romance too!
Thanks to Bookouture for the digital copy. All thoughts are my own.
The 2024 timeline features Tilly's niece, Kayla. Kayla has returned to town to deal with Tilly's letter writing and stationery business she has inherited upon Tilly's death. There are lots of secrets that that come to light about Tilly's past and also Kayla's. As you might expect, there are also letters. Letters of loss, love, longing and forgiveness. Beautiful words and beautiful thoughts. Beautiful book. There's so romance too!
Thanks to Bookouture for the digital copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 4, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up.
A truly beautiful read. A tear-jerker to be sure. Have some tissues on hand. It's heart-warming, thoughtful, and one I'll be thinking about for a while. I read this shortly after losing a loved-one. And while I would say the timing of this made it at times harder, there was also a great sense of comfort as well.
I enjoy a dual timeline and I found it was done really well here. I was fully engaged with both Kayla and Tilly and didn't find myself "skimming" one to get back to another.
I'm a lover of stationary, journaling, pens and stickers, etc. So the idea of the power of letter writing was very compelling to me and resonated with some of my own personal interests as well.
💜 Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the gifted eARC to read and review for the #barbarajosselsohnbooktour 💜 All thoughts expressed are my own.
A truly beautiful read. A tear-jerker to be sure. Have some tissues on hand. It's heart-warming, thoughtful, and one I'll be thinking about for a while. I read this shortly after losing a loved-one. And while I would say the timing of this made it at times harder, there was also a great sense of comfort as well.
I enjoy a dual timeline and I found it was done really well here. I was fully engaged with both Kayla and Tilly and didn't find myself "skimming" one to get back to another.
I'm a lover of stationary, journaling, pens and stickers, etc. So the idea of the power of letter writing was very compelling to me and resonated with some of my own personal interests as well.
💜 Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the gifted eARC to read and review for the #barbarajosselsohnbooktour 💜 All thoughts expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paper House reads like a love letter to writing letters. A beautifully written, heartbreaking book about love and loss that had me crying multiple times. Both storylines were interesting and kept me equally engaged, although I felt like Kayla’s storyline could have been less drawn out (if everyone just had communicated a bit better). The setting was quite atmospheric and made me feel like I was right there on Celestine Island in the Paper House with Tilly and Kayla.
There are some wonderful quotes in this book that will stay with me for a long time and it has made me even more appreciative of my pen pals (although those are not the types of letters written in this book).
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this review copy.
There are some wonderful quotes in this book that will stay with me for a long time and it has made me even more appreciative of my pen pals (although those are not the types of letters written in this book).
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this review copy.
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