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The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn
A gorgeous new romantic comedy about taking chances and realising your dreams. Libby Quinn is sick and tired of being sensible.
After years of slogging her guts out for nothing at a PR company, she finds herself redundant and about to plough every last penny of her savings into refurbishing a ramshackle shop and making her dream become a reality.
She hopes the opening of the (name) bookshop on Ivy Lane will be the perfect tribute to her beloved grandfather who instilled a love of reading and books in her from an early age.
When her love life and friendships become even more
complicated – will Libby have the courage to follow her dreams? Or has she bitten off more than she can chew?
After years of slogging her guts out for nothing at a PR company, she finds herself redundant and about to plough every last penny of her savings into refurbishing a ramshackle shop and making her dream become a reality.
She hopes the opening of the (name) bookshop on Ivy Lane will be the perfect tribute to her beloved grandfather who instilled a love of reading and books in her from an early age.
When her love life and friendships become even more
complicated – will Libby have the courage to follow her dreams? Or has she bitten off more than she can chew?
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2020
300 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
May 13, 2020
Hopeful and charming! Freya Kennedy has written a sweet uplifting story about family, friendship, community, and books. Libby has lost her PR job and recognizes it is time to realize her dreams. Having recently lost her beloved grandfather she is determined to open the book shop that they always dreamed of. Libby is fortunate to find a location on a friendly street in her quaint Irish village. She throws everything she has into renovating the bookshop and this leads to some hurt feelings between her best friend and her. It also makes her question her current relationship. Lucky for Libby she has a super supportive family, not to mention tremendously helpful neighbors. We all need neighbors like these. Harry the elderly corner shop owner who is always bringing Libby treats, and Noah the handsome pub owner who is always there to lend a helping hand.
Libby was such a likable relatable character and I loved spending my afternoon with her. The bookshop sounded so charming, not only does Libby get to own this lovely shop but she also gets to live above it. I loved all the secondary characters in the story, made me want to move to this small village. The Romance was a sweet slow burn that was perfectly suited for this book. A wonderful feel-good story perfect for these crazy times.
This book in emojis 📚 🐶 🍪 ☕️ 🌡 🗝 🖌
*** Big thank you to Boldwood Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Libby was such a likable relatable character and I loved spending my afternoon with her. The bookshop sounded so charming, not only does Libby get to own this lovely shop but she also gets to live above it. I loved all the secondary characters in the story, made me want to move to this small village. The Romance was a sweet slow burn that was perfectly suited for this book. A wonderful feel-good story perfect for these crazy times.
This book in emojis 📚 🐶 🍪 ☕️ 🌡 🗝 🖌
*** Big thank you to Boldwood Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
May 8, 2020
The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn is a lovely story about family and friendships, following your dreams and building a community of like-minded people who care about each other and help when there is need.
Libby's love of everything bookish was instilled in her by her grandfather Ernie who was a wonderful storyteller and used to buy a book for Libby every month to start her own very special library. When Libby loses her dead-end job at a PR agency, she decides it's a sign to do something different with her life. At the same time an old draper's shop is put on an auction at a reasonable price and Libby knows the best tribute to her late grandfather will be using her redundancy money and her inheritance to open a bookshop. Never mind the terrible state in which she found the place which had been abandoned for ten years, Libby isn't scared of hard work as long as she can open her dream shop by Grandfather Ernie's birthday date.
Libby is so determined to realise her ambition that she neglects her best friend Jess. She also needs to think hard why spending time with her boyfriend Ant doesn't seem to make her happy and fulfiled any more. Or maybe it never did and Libby just needs to redefine what she wants from and hopes for in a romantic realtionship. It might not be the right time for it or Ant might not be the right man for her.
On the plus side, her charming neighbours from Ivy Lane Jo, Noah, Harry, Mrs Doherty, and countless other people are helping her shop turn into a cozy and creative space for book lovers and aspiring writers. Libby is working hard to build a business, but also new important relationships in life, without forgetting and ever grateful for her old support network.
There is romance in this book and it's my favourite slow-slow-burn. I liked the way you feel that it takes time to build (re-build) a shop and it takes time to get to know somebody if you want a lasting relationship and a happily ever after. Libby doesn't run away from the problems in her life, she works on them, and this takes courage and good solid character.
The book is very easy to read and leaves you with a warm feeling of having met somebody who is an optimist by choice. I really liked this one and can't wait to see what Freya Kennedy is going to write about next time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Libby's love of everything bookish was instilled in her by her grandfather Ernie who was a wonderful storyteller and used to buy a book for Libby every month to start her own very special library. When Libby loses her dead-end job at a PR agency, she decides it's a sign to do something different with her life. At the same time an old draper's shop is put on an auction at a reasonable price and Libby knows the best tribute to her late grandfather will be using her redundancy money and her inheritance to open a bookshop. Never mind the terrible state in which she found the place which had been abandoned for ten years, Libby isn't scared of hard work as long as she can open her dream shop by Grandfather Ernie's birthday date.
Libby is so determined to realise her ambition that she neglects her best friend Jess. She also needs to think hard why spending time with her boyfriend Ant doesn't seem to make her happy and fulfiled any more. Or maybe it never did and Libby just needs to redefine what she wants from and hopes for in a romantic realtionship. It might not be the right time for it or Ant might not be the right man for her.
On the plus side, her charming neighbours from Ivy Lane Jo, Noah, Harry, Mrs Doherty, and countless other people are helping her shop turn into a cozy and creative space for book lovers and aspiring writers. Libby is working hard to build a business, but also new important relationships in life, without forgetting and ever grateful for her old support network.
There is romance in this book and it's my favourite slow-slow-burn. I liked the way you feel that it takes time to build (re-build) a shop and it takes time to get to know somebody if you want a lasting relationship and a happily ever after. Libby doesn't run away from the problems in her life, she works on them, and this takes courage and good solid character.
The book is very easy to read and leaves you with a warm feeling of having met somebody who is an optimist by choice. I really liked this one and can't wait to see what Freya Kennedy is going to write about next time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 2, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Libby and her grandad has always dreamed that one day they would open a bookstore. He was always buying books to read to her when she was a ,little girl. Now Libby is a out to start living the dream.
Set in a quaint Irish town, the other local neighbouring business owners are friendly and welcoming. We follow Libby's high and low points as she works towards the day she finally opens the doors to the public.i loved the title for her bookshop. It was a bit predictable in places but that didn't bother me. A story of love, hopes and dreams.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Boldworld Books and the author Freya Kennedy for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Libby and her grandad has always dreamed that one day they would open a bookstore. He was always buying books to read to her when she was a ,little girl. Now Libby is a out to start living the dream.
Set in a quaint Irish town, the other local neighbouring business owners are friendly and welcoming. We follow Libby's high and low points as she works towards the day she finally opens the doors to the public.i loved the title for her bookshop. It was a bit predictable in places but that didn't bother me. A story of love, hopes and dreams.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Boldworld Books and the author Freya Kennedy for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2020
If you are looking a book to escape into at the moment, then look no further than The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn.
It is such a calm and relaxing read, that I was very happy to sit back and just relax into the pages of the story. I absolutely loved Libby's determination to open a bookshop as a tribute to her grandpa Ernie.
Libby has bought the most run down place on Ivy Lane for this bookshop and it requires a very large amount of work on it. Thankfully her family are supportive and so are the new friends she makes on Ivy Lane.
It's a road that really is its own family and community as they look after each other. Special mentions to Harry who runs the corner shop and is incredibly chatty and also very generous often giving Libby all manner of treats. Also Noah from the pub opposite her shop who is gorgeous and once you get to know him an incredibly considerate and caring man.
I loved how each chapter was subtitled with the name of a well known book, and it is clear how much of a bond Libby and her grandfather had, especially when it came to reading.
This is just an incredibly sweet book taking a look at friendship, family, community and making dreams come true. I really enjoyed reading it, and am very curious to see what Freya Kennedy will write next.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It is such a calm and relaxing read, that I was very happy to sit back and just relax into the pages of the story. I absolutely loved Libby's determination to open a bookshop as a tribute to her grandpa Ernie.
Libby has bought the most run down place on Ivy Lane for this bookshop and it requires a very large amount of work on it. Thankfully her family are supportive and so are the new friends she makes on Ivy Lane.
It's a road that really is its own family and community as they look after each other. Special mentions to Harry who runs the corner shop and is incredibly chatty and also very generous often giving Libby all manner of treats. Also Noah from the pub opposite her shop who is gorgeous and once you get to know him an incredibly considerate and caring man.
I loved how each chapter was subtitled with the name of a well known book, and it is clear how much of a bond Libby and her grandfather had, especially when it came to reading.
This is just an incredibly sweet book taking a look at friendship, family, community and making dreams come true. I really enjoyed reading it, and am very curious to see what Freya Kennedy will write next.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 18, 2020
Another beautiful read which kept me wildly entertained when Libby was made redundant and she put all her savings to open up a Bookshop.
My first book by this author, all the characters were super sweet and highly helpful. Emotions filled my heart as I turned the pages slowly. The book soothed me and made me forget the world. Friendship and family were the cornerstones of this book. Absolutely wonderful.
My first book by this author, all the characters were super sweet and highly helpful. Emotions filled my heart as I turned the pages slowly. The book soothed me and made me forget the world. Friendship and family were the cornerstones of this book. Absolutely wonderful.
June 17, 2020
This is one of those comforting, pleasing reads that take the reader away into a world where love always wins, friendships triumph, and there’s always a happy ending.
Libby Quinn dreamed of owning a bookstore with her grandfather. But when he dies, the onus is on her to make that dream come true.
This story is about how she accomplishes that with strength and stubbornness. She’s a woman who learns to stand up for herself and what true relationships are. And that those who really love you will always support your dreams instead of standing in the way of them.
As a lover of books–the idea of owning a bookstore was just so much fun to read about! I loved this story and the growth of Libby Quinn!
Libby Quinn dreamed of owning a bookstore with her grandfather. But when he dies, the onus is on her to make that dream come true.
This story is about how she accomplishes that with strength and stubbornness. She’s a woman who learns to stand up for herself and what true relationships are. And that those who really love you will always support your dreams instead of standing in the way of them.
As a lover of books–the idea of owning a bookstore was just so much fun to read about! I loved this story and the growth of Libby Quinn!
May 5, 2020
I could really cut this really short and tell you not to bother reading my review, just get yourself a copy of this book and read that instead! However, although I really do suggest you do just that, I'll tell you more about why just in case you want to know . . . .
This story starts with a child sat on her grandfather's knee having stories read to her. I don't usually include quotes in my review but this time I can't resist . . . it is something Grandad said to Libby and it is so pertinent to our current situation:
"Books will always be your friend, Libby," he'd said. "They will transport you to a thousand different worlds. Different times. Mythical creatures, magical mosters, good and evil, scary and funny. There's no situation so bad that a book can't help you feel better, even if just for a little while."
This is a great story to escape into whatever is happening in your world at the moment. It is a glorious story of following your dreams, daring to try to create your own reality from them. In this case, Libby and her Grandad had dreams of owning a bookshop and Libby is taking steps to make it true. It is a story of family and community, new friendships, looking after each other, finding out who you are, what you are, what you want and who will support you. It is also about facing the truth, being honest with yourself and others and always striving to do your best. It is an inspirational yet fun read. The characters are superbly portrayed, the whole book totally engaging and I absolutely loved reading it. I've never been to Derry, but if there are areas like Ivy Lane it sounds a brilliant place to live. I really hope this is the start of a series to be set in that community - I'd love to read more about them all in future books! It is a lovely calm, relaxing but totally engaging read that I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending. I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author in future!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and finding it a totally fascinating, fun read.
This story starts with a child sat on her grandfather's knee having stories read to her. I don't usually include quotes in my review but this time I can't resist . . . it is something Grandad said to Libby and it is so pertinent to our current situation:
"Books will always be your friend, Libby," he'd said. "They will transport you to a thousand different worlds. Different times. Mythical creatures, magical mosters, good and evil, scary and funny. There's no situation so bad that a book can't help you feel better, even if just for a little while."
This is a great story to escape into whatever is happening in your world at the moment. It is a glorious story of following your dreams, daring to try to create your own reality from them. In this case, Libby and her Grandad had dreams of owning a bookshop and Libby is taking steps to make it true. It is a story of family and community, new friendships, looking after each other, finding out who you are, what you are, what you want and who will support you. It is also about facing the truth, being honest with yourself and others and always striving to do your best. It is an inspirational yet fun read. The characters are superbly portrayed, the whole book totally engaging and I absolutely loved reading it. I've never been to Derry, but if there are areas like Ivy Lane it sounds a brilliant place to live. I really hope this is the start of a series to be set in that community - I'd love to read more about them all in future books! It is a lovely calm, relaxing but totally engaging read that I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending. I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author in future!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and finding it a totally fascinating, fun read.
September 27, 2020
This was such a sweet book to read, I really loved it. So much so I’ve ordered her next book on my kindle. It was and a chick lit book but was about my favourite hobby, books and opening a bookshop. It had wonderful likeable characters even the ex who was a little bit uncaring at times although he turned out better in the end.
April 9, 2020
This was so sweet. Exactly what I needed to read during this time. Would love to read more about all the residents of Ivy Lane and their stories.
Libby's relationship with her parents was a treat to read about. I'm so over people in women's fiction or romance books have a troubled relationship with their parents. This was a nice change.
Everything flowed in a seamless fashion and this made for a very distracting and entertaining read during this tough time.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
Libby's relationship with her parents was a treat to read about. I'm so over people in women's fiction or romance books have a troubled relationship with their parents. This was a nice change.
Everything flowed in a seamless fashion and this made for a very distracting and entertaining read during this tough time.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
March 25, 2020
Libby has this dream of opening a bookshop, it has been there forever, it’s the dream she shared with her grandad.
What I liked is the process of working on this bookshop and how Libby felt strongly about this dream
Strange how I enjoyed the talk about fixing this and repairing that and buying things and planing more than the characters.
But I didn’t like the characters or the relationships or how things where going with Libby personally.
I just didn’t see the point of it.
This review is for a free copy courtesy of Netgalley.
What I liked is the process of working on this bookshop and how Libby felt strongly about this dream
Strange how I enjoyed the talk about fixing this and repairing that and buying things and planing more than the characters.
But I didn’t like the characters or the relationships or how things where going with Libby personally.
I just didn’t see the point of it.
This review is for a free copy courtesy of Netgalley.
January 10, 2021
‘The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn’ was a very thought provoking and inspirational read. It was a book I could relate to instantly, for I too share the dream of Libby Quinn.
Libby is a woman who has fond memories of sitting reading books with her Grandfather as a child, and thus has led her to want to embark upon an adventure of opening up a bookstore in his honour. It is a beautiful story of how a child became attached and immersed in the world of reading, and how a bond with her Grandfather over books sparked a whole string of memories which outlived him but forever lived on in her heart and in her dreams.
This book reminded me of how I became a bookworm and an avid reader, for it was my Grandma who got me into reading and allowed me to embrace tales written by the Grimm brothers and Lewis Carroll. Even now after my grandmother has passed, they are cherished memories which hold a special place in my heart and inspire me to continue reading and to allow my imagination to run wild. Therefore, as a reader I was 100 percent along for the journey with Libby, and shared in her pain, her joy, her determination and also in her triumph.
This book was a real uplifting story, which I am not ashamed to admit had me tearing up are time. It was a story which I felt a shared passion and connection with, which therefore made it all the more powerful.
Libby buys an abandoned shop on Ivy Lane, and at first believes she has no hope in opening it and seeing her bookstore come to life. But she is determined, and even at the toughest times through the love and support from family, friends and new acquaintances, she pushes on determined to turn her dream into a reality. It is not easy, she suffers personal troubles, health woes and some real tests, but she never gives up. It was inspiring and very motivating.
Noah Simpson is the love interest. He is the landlord of the famous Ivy Inn Pub, and he shares in Libby’s dream, and always appears to be the one Libby wishes to turn to at the end of the day. But with rotten timing, will Libby be able to swallow her pride and give Noah a chance? After all, timing doesn’t always have to be perfect to get that happily ever after.
A beautiful read which hit all my nerves and had me reading the book almost all in one day. It has humour, chemistry, drama and some real moments which make your stomach sink and your heart thud a little bit faster, but overall it will leave you feeling incredibly uplifted and motivated to work on making your own dreams come true.
A perfect read for those who love women’s fiction in general, romantic comedies, sweet romances and those looking for a good book to become addicted to.
I was new to this author, but I will definitely be exploring more books by Freya Kennedy.
Libby is a woman who has fond memories of sitting reading books with her Grandfather as a child, and thus has led her to want to embark upon an adventure of opening up a bookstore in his honour. It is a beautiful story of how a child became attached and immersed in the world of reading, and how a bond with her Grandfather over books sparked a whole string of memories which outlived him but forever lived on in her heart and in her dreams.
This book reminded me of how I became a bookworm and an avid reader, for it was my Grandma who got me into reading and allowed me to embrace tales written by the Grimm brothers and Lewis Carroll. Even now after my grandmother has passed, they are cherished memories which hold a special place in my heart and inspire me to continue reading and to allow my imagination to run wild. Therefore, as a reader I was 100 percent along for the journey with Libby, and shared in her pain, her joy, her determination and also in her triumph.
This book was a real uplifting story, which I am not ashamed to admit had me tearing up are time. It was a story which I felt a shared passion and connection with, which therefore made it all the more powerful.
Libby buys an abandoned shop on Ivy Lane, and at first believes she has no hope in opening it and seeing her bookstore come to life. But she is determined, and even at the toughest times through the love and support from family, friends and new acquaintances, she pushes on determined to turn her dream into a reality. It is not easy, she suffers personal troubles, health woes and some real tests, but she never gives up. It was inspiring and very motivating.
Noah Simpson is the love interest. He is the landlord of the famous Ivy Inn Pub, and he shares in Libby’s dream, and always appears to be the one Libby wishes to turn to at the end of the day. But with rotten timing, will Libby be able to swallow her pride and give Noah a chance? After all, timing doesn’t always have to be perfect to get that happily ever after.
A beautiful read which hit all my nerves and had me reading the book almost all in one day. It has humour, chemistry, drama and some real moments which make your stomach sink and your heart thud a little bit faster, but overall it will leave you feeling incredibly uplifted and motivated to work on making your own dreams come true.
A perfect read for those who love women’s fiction in general, romantic comedies, sweet romances and those looking for a good book to become addicted to.
I was new to this author, but I will definitely be exploring more books by Freya Kennedy.
May 5, 2020
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from netgalley.
A warm and wonderful story about family, friendship, and the magic that books can hold for us, THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF LIBBY QUINN by Freya Kennedy is the perfect balm for the soul.
When Libby finds herself in the financial position to buy a beautiful, and run-down, old shop she jumps at the opportunity. Finally, she can make her and her grandfather's dream of opening their own bookstore come true. If only he were still alive to celebrate it all with her. But with the help of her parents, her best friend, and her boyfriend, Libby is determined to make this business a success. Except her boyfriend doesn't seem that eager to get his hands dirty and her best friend feels neglected, and as the work begins, Libby starts to doubt whether she will run out of money and hope before it is even possible to open the doors. But with the help of some fellow business owners in the street, Libby soon realises that there is something even more special about this place as it comes with a kind-hearted community that long to see her succeed. And when she begins to have feelings for a particular pub owner, life may just get more complicated before it gets easier ...
I lost myself among the pages of THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF LIBBY QUINN and I didn't come back to reality until I finished the very last word. The characters are witty, relatable, kind, and creative, and I loved the setting where community spirit and friendship is shown to be the most important thing. Libby is a likeable main character and there were plenty of ups and downs to keep me interested throughout.
What book lover hasn't dreamt of opening up a book shop of their own? I know I have. So it was such a joy to see the love and thought going into the space at every turn, and this was made all the more powerful because of Libby's pure and devoted relationship that she had with her grandfather. He was the man who opened up her heart to books and my heart broke for her loss.
THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF LIBBY QUINN by Freya Kennedy is a fantastic book about new chapters in life and I cannot wait for more from this author.
A warm and wonderful story about family, friendship, and the magic that books can hold for us, THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF LIBBY QUINN by Freya Kennedy is the perfect balm for the soul.
When Libby finds herself in the financial position to buy a beautiful, and run-down, old shop she jumps at the opportunity. Finally, she can make her and her grandfather's dream of opening their own bookstore come true. If only he were still alive to celebrate it all with her. But with the help of her parents, her best friend, and her boyfriend, Libby is determined to make this business a success. Except her boyfriend doesn't seem that eager to get his hands dirty and her best friend feels neglected, and as the work begins, Libby starts to doubt whether she will run out of money and hope before it is even possible to open the doors. But with the help of some fellow business owners in the street, Libby soon realises that there is something even more special about this place as it comes with a kind-hearted community that long to see her succeed. And when she begins to have feelings for a particular pub owner, life may just get more complicated before it gets easier ...
I lost myself among the pages of THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF LIBBY QUINN and I didn't come back to reality until I finished the very last word. The characters are witty, relatable, kind, and creative, and I loved the setting where community spirit and friendship is shown to be the most important thing. Libby is a likeable main character and there were plenty of ups and downs to keep me interested throughout.
What book lover hasn't dreamt of opening up a book shop of their own? I know I have. So it was such a joy to see the love and thought going into the space at every turn, and this was made all the more powerful because of Libby's pure and devoted relationship that she had with her grandfather. He was the man who opened up her heart to books and my heart broke for her loss.
THE HOPES AND DREAMS OF LIBBY QUINN by Freya Kennedy is a fantastic book about new chapters in life and I cannot wait for more from this author.
May 14, 2020
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I loved this story, it was a fun and uplifting read – just what I needed!
The book had a great plot, it was brilliantly written and I loved the writing style and flow – the characters were fun and feisty and I loved reading about them, and getting to know them as the book progressed.
It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a great, fun read and it was a pleasure turning the pages – very highly recommended and the perfect lockdown read as I was more than happy to escape with Libby as she followed her dreams!!
I loved this story, it was a fun and uplifting read – just what I needed!
The book had a great plot, it was brilliantly written and I loved the writing style and flow – the characters were fun and feisty and I loved reading about them, and getting to know them as the book progressed.
It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a great, fun read and it was a pleasure turning the pages – very highly recommended and the perfect lockdown read as I was more than happy to escape with Libby as she followed her dreams!!
May 13, 2020
There's a ramshackle building on Ivy Lane that Libby and her grandfather imagined as a bookshop every time they were near it.
Years later, her beloved grandfather has passed away, but Libby still holds tight to the dream of buying the building and converting it into a "creative space" for readers, bookworms and writers to enjoy at their leisure complete with a coffee area.
She never lets go of her vision, and is propelled to find a way to get her hands on the building. After having worked in PR it seems like a dream come true. Circumstances and those close to her conspire to help her and I was glad she had her family and friend Jess to help out.
She has a boyfriend (Ant) who she seems besotted with but then when she ends up in the pub she gradually seems to have feelings for a guy there.....
Ant was kind and thoughtful and I thought his modern coastal home was amazing yet Libby's mind was on her project, the bookshop. I was not surprised that this caused the occasional tense scene between them and even felt sorry for Ant. I felt she took advantage of his hospitality a little when she first arrived and I was wishing she'd stayed longer.
Libby is a strong character but she also seemed wrapped up in her dream of having the bookshop as she wanted it and intent on seeing her project through as a tribute to her dear grandfather.
Both of these traits were good ones but at times I wanted to say "Libby, go careful. Think things through well or you'll lose or hurt those you love most. " Libby to me was a lot of things: sensitive towards her parents and her friend Jess and grateful to have them by her side. She's driven, determined and passionate.
I liked how Jess and she complimented each other. Where Libby was laser-focused on soending the hours in the shop that were needed to get it looking like she had dreamed, Jess had her doctor's logic and calmness that meant Libby could just stop and take a break (or that forced her to). Jess was also fun and spontaneous (I loved the picnic scene) .
I mean, I do not blame Libby for wanting to spend many hours on her new project, the bookshop. It's her baby, her lifelong dream. But I did not want it to spoil the relationships she had with thise around her.
Ivy Lane is just one street but it is also much more than that: a close-knit community. The corner shop and pub complement the bookshop well and the close proximity of the buildings make the sense of community even stronger.
I love the characters and the fact that despite the small cast, I felt I knew each and every one well. Everyone brings something to the novel.
Being half-Irish, I loved the setting and little bits of Irish culture sprinkled throughout the book. The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn is an escapist treat thst made me smile, laugh and even get emotional. It is packed with positivity too which helps at a hard time like this. The structure of the book was unique with each chapter named after a well-known book. The prologue was so tender it bought a tear to my eye, which is good- the entire book is an emotional rollercoaster, but highly entertaining too.
Thanks to Freya Kennedy and Boldwood Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars. I'm honoured to be taking part in the blog tour too.
Years later, her beloved grandfather has passed away, but Libby still holds tight to the dream of buying the building and converting it into a "creative space" for readers, bookworms and writers to enjoy at their leisure complete with a coffee area.
She never lets go of her vision, and is propelled to find a way to get her hands on the building. After having worked in PR it seems like a dream come true. Circumstances and those close to her conspire to help her and I was glad she had her family and friend Jess to help out.
She has a boyfriend (Ant) who she seems besotted with but then when she ends up in the pub she gradually seems to have feelings for a guy there.....
Ant was kind and thoughtful and I thought his modern coastal home was amazing yet Libby's mind was on her project, the bookshop. I was not surprised that this caused the occasional tense scene between them and even felt sorry for Ant. I felt she took advantage of his hospitality a little when she first arrived and I was wishing she'd stayed longer.
Libby is a strong character but she also seemed wrapped up in her dream of having the bookshop as she wanted it and intent on seeing her project through as a tribute to her dear grandfather.
Both of these traits were good ones but at times I wanted to say "Libby, go careful. Think things through well or you'll lose or hurt those you love most. " Libby to me was a lot of things: sensitive towards her parents and her friend Jess and grateful to have them by her side. She's driven, determined and passionate.
I liked how Jess and she complimented each other. Where Libby was laser-focused on soending the hours in the shop that were needed to get it looking like she had dreamed, Jess had her doctor's logic and calmness that meant Libby could just stop and take a break (or that forced her to). Jess was also fun and spontaneous (I loved the picnic scene) .
I mean, I do not blame Libby for wanting to spend many hours on her new project, the bookshop. It's her baby, her lifelong dream. But I did not want it to spoil the relationships she had with thise around her.
Ivy Lane is just one street but it is also much more than that: a close-knit community. The corner shop and pub complement the bookshop well and the close proximity of the buildings make the sense of community even stronger.
I love the characters and the fact that despite the small cast, I felt I knew each and every one well. Everyone brings something to the novel.
Being half-Irish, I loved the setting and little bits of Irish culture sprinkled throughout the book. The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn is an escapist treat thst made me smile, laugh and even get emotional. It is packed with positivity too which helps at a hard time like this. The structure of the book was unique with each chapter named after a well-known book. The prologue was so tender it bought a tear to my eye, which is good- the entire book is an emotional rollercoaster, but highly entertaining too.
Thanks to Freya Kennedy and Boldwood Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars. I'm honoured to be taking part in the blog tour too.
May 12, 2020
I read the synopsis for 'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' and it certainly sounded like the kind of fun read that I so desperately needed at that moment in time. I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my Kindle and settled down to read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' but more about that in a bit.
If I am honest I found myself ever so slightly envious of Libby. I am sure that many of us have reached the point in our lives where we need a change. Libby's hand is forced in a way as she is made redundant from her job in public relations and she obtains a property with a view to turning it into a bookshop. I think that in part she wants to open the bookshop as a kind of tribute to her grandfather, who was also a passionate reader and who instilled a love of books and reading to Libby from an early age. I think to a degree I identified with Libby and I compared myself with Libby. We both lost family members who gave us our love of reading. (My late father was an avid reader and always had a book on the go and he encouraged my love of books). We would both love to open our own bookshop, although in my case I am not sure how successful that shop would be because I wouldn't want to let any books leave the shop. Not everything goes to plan though. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn to this book by the bright cover and the fact that the synopsis told me that I had to read the book. I took to Libby from the start and because she began to feel as though she was a friend of mine, I had to keep reading to find out what fate in store for Libby. I felt protective of her and at times I wanted to leap inside the pages of the book to help her or stick up for her. The pages turned increasingly quickly and I soon charged my way through the book. I immersed myself in the story so deeply, that I was able to shut out all other distractions and concentrate on the story itself. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I also lost all track of time and when I first looked up to check how long I had been reading, I was staggered to realise that I had been reading for over two hours! 'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' certainly took me on a journey through all sorts of emotions and I often kept chuckling away to myself as I worked my way through the story.
'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' is really well written. Now I will let you into a little secret but don't tell anybody. Mam's the word. Freya Kennedy is actually the pen name of Claire Allan, who writes crime and psychological thriller sorts of books. I love Freya's book just as much as I love Claire's books. She grabs your attention from the start and makes her characters seem so realistic that they literally jump off the page and seem just as real as you and I. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and that's thanks to Freya's fantastic and very vivid storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed 'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Freya's and Claire's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
If I am honest I found myself ever so slightly envious of Libby. I am sure that many of us have reached the point in our lives where we need a change. Libby's hand is forced in a way as she is made redundant from her job in public relations and she obtains a property with a view to turning it into a bookshop. I think that in part she wants to open the bookshop as a kind of tribute to her grandfather, who was also a passionate reader and who instilled a love of books and reading to Libby from an early age. I think to a degree I identified with Libby and I compared myself with Libby. We both lost family members who gave us our love of reading. (My late father was an avid reader and always had a book on the go and he encouraged my love of books). We would both love to open our own bookshop, although in my case I am not sure how successful that shop would be because I wouldn't want to let any books leave the shop. Not everything goes to plan though. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn to this book by the bright cover and the fact that the synopsis told me that I had to read the book. I took to Libby from the start and because she began to feel as though she was a friend of mine, I had to keep reading to find out what fate in store for Libby. I felt protective of her and at times I wanted to leap inside the pages of the book to help her or stick up for her. The pages turned increasingly quickly and I soon charged my way through the book. I immersed myself in the story so deeply, that I was able to shut out all other distractions and concentrate on the story itself. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I also lost all track of time and when I first looked up to check how long I had been reading, I was staggered to realise that I had been reading for over two hours! 'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' certainly took me on a journey through all sorts of emotions and I often kept chuckling away to myself as I worked my way through the story.
'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' is really well written. Now I will let you into a little secret but don't tell anybody. Mam's the word. Freya Kennedy is actually the pen name of Claire Allan, who writes crime and psychological thriller sorts of books. I love Freya's book just as much as I love Claire's books. She grabs your attention from the start and makes her characters seem so realistic that they literally jump off the page and seem just as real as you and I. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and that's thanks to Freya's fantastic and very vivid storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed 'The Hopes & Dreams Of Libby Quinn' and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Freya's and Claire's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
May 6, 2020
The time you spend reading my review should really be spent reading this book. It's pure escapism at its finest and couldn't have come at a more perfect time.
I've read nine books in the last week, many of them were romance. Not one of those books compares to this one. It was so easy to read and had a really calming effect on me. I can't remember the last time a book made me feel that way!
Libby's recently lost her grandfather who instilled a love of reading to her from a young age. One of her most treasured photographs is of them both sharing a story when she was young. Together they dreamed of opening a book shop on Ivy Lane. When her grandfather passes, Libby is determined to make their dream a reality and to have it completed for its grand opening on her grandfather's birthday.
Libby makes a fantastic protagonist who is on a mission. Despite having friends and a partner who don't understand her passion project, she is relentless in making sure it succeeds on time. Along the way the relationships she has with her partner, the community around her and her friends develop. It proves that the ones who are meant to be in your life will always be there and we always get to see each other's true colours eventually!
I need to read more books by this author! When I finished this I was left desperately hoping this was part of a series, there were so many parts I loved about the Ivy Lane community that I wasn't ready for it to end.
This is definitely a recommended read! You need to get yourself a copy.
I received a review copy of the book from the book's publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is my honest review after choosing to read this brilliant book.
I've read nine books in the last week, many of them were romance. Not one of those books compares to this one. It was so easy to read and had a really calming effect on me. I can't remember the last time a book made me feel that way!
Libby's recently lost her grandfather who instilled a love of reading to her from a young age. One of her most treasured photographs is of them both sharing a story when she was young. Together they dreamed of opening a book shop on Ivy Lane. When her grandfather passes, Libby is determined to make their dream a reality and to have it completed for its grand opening on her grandfather's birthday.
Libby makes a fantastic protagonist who is on a mission. Despite having friends and a partner who don't understand her passion project, she is relentless in making sure it succeeds on time. Along the way the relationships she has with her partner, the community around her and her friends develop. It proves that the ones who are meant to be in your life will always be there and we always get to see each other's true colours eventually!
I need to read more books by this author! When I finished this I was left desperately hoping this was part of a series, there were so many parts I loved about the Ivy Lane community that I wasn't ready for it to end.
This is definitely a recommended read! You need to get yourself a copy.
I received a review copy of the book from the book's publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is my honest review after choosing to read this brilliant book.
May 9, 2020
Libby Quinn is us and we are she...grant it, one might hope for a little more at times, but is anyone's life perfect? No, not really...the best we can hope for the is courage, the passion, the drive, the stamina to reach for what we dream, and the friends and loved ones there by our sides to pull us up when we fall, and celebrate our highs. As soon I began the prologue, I knew this was the book for me. The tender moment shared with her grandfather warmed my heart, spoke to my bookish nature, and captured my mind. Though Libby's story continues, her grandfather is never truly gone, and their special connection helps her to build her dreams into reality. I felt like I was actually seeing the 'Once Upon A Book' shop and walking Ivy Lane...I mean, it even sounds magical describing it...and though I knew it wasn't possible to reach out and swipe a title from the shelves, it didn't mean it felt any less real.
From tragedy in more ways than one to uphill heart enriching climb, Libby makes her way to her own happy ending of which both she and we can be proud. Celebrate your love of books with a fellow dreamer, and follow your bookish heart to the perfect read for your next escape between the pages.
**ebook received for review; opinions are my own
From tragedy in more ways than one to uphill heart enriching climb, Libby makes her way to her own happy ending of which both she and we can be proud. Celebrate your love of books with a fellow dreamer, and follow your bookish heart to the perfect read for your next escape between the pages.
**ebook received for review; opinions are my own
July 5, 2022
This was okay. It was extremely similar to many other romcom / chick lit books. I did enjoy how the main character was opening a book shop and that was the most fun part of the book. I also like how it was set in Ireland. However everything else, meh. It was very samey like I have said. I wouldn't necessarily recommend this unless you really just want a quick read that requires virtually no effort and is mostly fluff.
July 13, 2022
This was a sweet book and a great palate cleanser. It was about a woman following her dream of opening a bookshop cafe. This is my dream so how could I possibly not enjoy this book? In saying that, I did find it a bit repetitive and predictable.
July 3, 2023
This was a nice, light read with likeable characters who were well-rounded enough to be believable.
A step up from generic light reads, the situations in which Libby found herself and the back story were relatable, so much so that I’m going to look up the author to see what else she’s written.
A step up from generic light reads, the situations in which Libby found herself and the back story were relatable, so much so that I’m going to look up the author to see what else she’s written.
March 3, 2024
I found this to be a cute, heartwarming read that is about so much more than romantic love. Community, grief, and friendships are other strong themes in the book. Many of the plot points were quite predictable, but I never got bored and enjoyed picking it up each time.
May 19, 2020
This was a real treat; I devoured it in one day. I loved Libby (and her family) and her determination to follow her, and her Grandad's, dream of opening a bookshop. I loved all the description of setting it up – the furniture and building, the community of the lane, the marketing – I was fully absorbed in it. The slow burn romance was a winner too. So nice to have Claire Allan back to women's fiction as Freya Kennedy; I'm looking forward to the next one!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2020
Slow romance, cute story, good ending
March 24, 2025
A lovely story of family friends romance and dreams. I just love how Freya Kennedy writes, draws me in and can't wait for the next book very invested to see how Libby Quinn life unfolds!!
May 12, 2020
Libby Quinn has lost her job in PR. Her love to everything bookish and to reading has been instilled by her late grandfather who not only was a brilliant story - teller, but also used to buy Libby a book every month to start her own library. Libby is sure that if not now, when then will be the time to follow her dream and to honour the memory of her beloved grandfather? So she buys an old draper's shop on an auction - even without seeing it she's certain that it's going to be THE place to open her own bookshop. However, the reality is a bit harsher and there is a lot of work waiting for Libby before she'll be able to open the shop. As luck would have it, she has found the place on one of the most friendliest street in her Irish village, with neighbours supporting each other - and it's going to be very important to Libby, because her relationship with her best friend Jess and her boyfriend Ant are going to face really hard times.
I liked Libby. She was funny and quirky and she didn't carry a grudge around for long. It was lovely to see her re - evaluating and re - defining her life and plucking out the courage to make some steps that for sure were not easy to do. She was determined and there was so much passion in her, and she was also friendly and loyal. She also didn't run away from problems and was not afraid of confrontations, which is not the easiest task, I think we can easily admit it. I was not so sure about her friendship with Jess, to be honest, there were moments that made me think that Libby invests much more in this relationship and I thought that Jess was simply unfair, and the way she has treated her, even though she also messed things up, was not the nicest possible. But to each their own, right?
The bunch of the great neighbours from Ivy Street truly lighten the book. Jo, Harry, Mrs Doherty to name the few were all so unselfish and always ready to help without being too pushy, and it worked really well in this book. And of course we can't forget Noah, mmmm, with his own sad story and wanting to give something back, he was simply lovely, but not too perfect, and that is also important - the author has found here the perfect balance to create a great, swoony but not too lovey - dovey hero.
The community plays a huge role in this book and I think that the author has wonderfully managed to capture the feeling of belonging somewhere. Freya Kennedy has a way with words, and her descriptions are vivid and colourful and there is hope in her words, hope that everything is going to be okay, and I really liked this feeling.
Of course there wouldn't be a story without a bit of romance there. It was sweet and charming, the blossoming relationship was slow - burning and it felt real and genuine, without this feeling of being forced. Really well written and well - rounded, with ups and downs and embarrassing moments, just like it should be.
The book ticked all the boxes, and probably this is why it didn't wow me so much, reading it I felt like I was reading the same book to many other ones, so most likely it's my fault that I stopped to enjoy it as much as I did at the beginning. Because when I started it I really, truly liked it, hoped for it to be something new and refreshing, and then, well, then the boxes started. A heroine with a loving granddad that died and she wants to do something to honour him? Tick. A handsome boyfriend? Tick. Troubles in paradise? Tick. Lovely community? Tick. Pub across the street with a potential love story? Tick. Tick, tick, tick. And Libby mentions her grandfather on almost every single page. Gah. Too much is simply too much. But please don't get me wrong, it must be the old cynic in me talking, and if you are looking for a light - hearted, easy and charming romance simply go for this book.
"The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn" is an uplifting and feel - good story about family and friendship, about finding the courage to follow your dreams, about self - esteem and determination, and pointing out how important it is to have a network of people supporting you and having your back when you need them. Recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
June 12, 2025
This was cute! I enjoyed watching this bookshop vision come to life and the importance her Grandfather played in those dreams. That street is one I would love to visit and perhaps stay on. The people are such a close knit community and seeing them come together for various reasons was something special. I loved seeing a supportive family for a change as well.
Libby after becoming redundant at a job she had done, and done well for quite some time, but no longer loved, decided it was time to make the leap for something she would love. While doing all the hard work for the opening she learns things about herself also and that relationships arent always easy, even those that have been unbreakable friendships forever. She's so likeable but still feels like a real person.
The romance is good, there are some real connections and shared experiences. The side characters are lovely and play such important roles. There are some touching moments, especially if you have lost someone you shared a passion like reading with.
I loved how each chapter was subtitled with the name of a well known book. If you are looking for a sweet, easy to read, bookish romance look no farther. I'll be keeping an eye out for more books by this author
Libby after becoming redundant at a job she had done, and done well for quite some time, but no longer loved, decided it was time to make the leap for something she would love. While doing all the hard work for the opening she learns things about herself also and that relationships arent always easy, even those that have been unbreakable friendships forever. She's so likeable but still feels like a real person.
The romance is good, there are some real connections and shared experiences. The side characters are lovely and play such important roles. There are some touching moments, especially if you have lost someone you shared a passion like reading with.
I loved how each chapter was subtitled with the name of a well known book. If you are looking for a sweet, easy to read, bookish romance look no farther. I'll be keeping an eye out for more books by this author
September 2, 2023
ma vie de rêve, je le relirais pour me motiver dans un futur lointain à ouvrir une librairie/café
March 5, 2021
Audiobook : Spotify.
Read by Jessica Regan.
Very much in the same ilk as (dare I say it?) Maeve Binchy, Rosamund Pilcher, etc. Nothing earth-shattering here, just a heartwarming tale.
Read by Jessica Regan.
Very much in the same ilk as (dare I say it?) Maeve Binchy, Rosamund Pilcher, etc. Nothing earth-shattering here, just a heartwarming tale.
April 7, 2020
I received this book in return for an honest review from NetGalley.
A quick and easy cosy chick-lit novel that Heidi Swain fans will love.
Kennedy has written a book that will tug at your heartstrings and make you smile as you wish you could visit Ivy Lane.
Libby was a determined MC who just wanted to complete her granddad's dream of opening a book shop whilst fighting get feelings for new neighbor and total gentleman, Noah. There romance was sweet but I wish there had been a few more swoony moments.
A quick and easy cosy chick-lit novel that Heidi Swain fans will love.
Kennedy has written a book that will tug at your heartstrings and make you smile as you wish you could visit Ivy Lane.
Libby was a determined MC who just wanted to complete her granddad's dream of opening a book shop whilst fighting get feelings for new neighbor and total gentleman, Noah. There romance was sweet but I wish there had been a few more swoony moments.
April 28, 2020
The Hopes and Dreams of Libby Quinn should be the ideal novel for these uncertain times; I have it from loads of reviews that this is a feel-good novel with many lovely characters.
I just couldn't get into it. I like some more action in stories and a lot less thinking and feeling (I had a particularly hard time sloughing through a chapter told in past perfect.)
So, while it may be a book for the times, it isn't a book for me. I may return to it later, but I don't have high hopes for it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
I just couldn't get into it. I like some more action in stories and a lot less thinking and feeling (I had a particularly hard time sloughing through a chapter told in past perfect.)
So, while it may be a book for the times, it isn't a book for me. I may return to it later, but I don't have high hopes for it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
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