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Rules For Dating a Bookshop Owner
Campbell Harrison is obsessed with books. So, when she quits her day job, leaving behind her dysfunctional family, and decides to move to a small town where no one knows her and she knows no one, she breathes relief for the first time in years.
With plans to open up a brick and mortar bookshop, she gives up most of her life’s savings to sign a year-long lease on a space in an old building downtown. She doesn’t think twice about it. It’s been her dream for as long as she can remember and now is not the time to start second guessing her decision to move. But shortly after, Campbell realizes she may have bitten off more than she can chew, even with the town’s support in her little, but big dream.
When the charming Bishop Graham, a veteran-turned firefighter with a past he’d rather not talk about, shows up on the stoop of her bookshop late one night at closing, Campbell all but dismisses him as an annoying customer. But the more she sees him around the small town, the more curious she becomes about who he is, and why he too came to this middle-of-nowhere town to escape.
With just a few months left on her lease and the holidays creeping up, Campbell has been dreading some big conversations. What is her next step? What is it exactly is it she’s been running from? Where does the bookshop stand when her lease is over? With growing anxiety and anticipation over what is to come, Campbell finds herself longing for a sign that she is exactly where she is meant to be.
With plans to open up a brick and mortar bookshop, she gives up most of her life’s savings to sign a year-long lease on a space in an old building downtown. She doesn’t think twice about it. It’s been her dream for as long as she can remember and now is not the time to start second guessing her decision to move. But shortly after, Campbell realizes she may have bitten off more than she can chew, even with the town’s support in her little, but big dream.
When the charming Bishop Graham, a veteran-turned firefighter with a past he’d rather not talk about, shows up on the stoop of her bookshop late one night at closing, Campbell all but dismisses him as an annoying customer. But the more she sees him around the small town, the more curious she becomes about who he is, and why he too came to this middle-of-nowhere town to escape.
With just a few months left on her lease and the holidays creeping up, Campbell has been dreading some big conversations. What is her next step? What is it exactly is it she’s been running from? Where does the bookshop stand when her lease is over? With growing anxiety and anticipation over what is to come, Campbell finds herself longing for a sign that she is exactly where she is meant to be.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2021
38 people are currently reading
2203 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
November 7, 2022
I absolutely LOVED writing this rom-com about my love for dogs, books, and coffee, following relatable characters and real-life issues. If you don't enjoy reading about these five things, then don't read this book... (and proceed to give it a 2-star review because you hate reading rom-coms, hate books, hate coffee, dogs, love, etc. as it may persuade someone who does love these things to not pick up the book. (This part is meant to be humor for the people in the back.)
Of course, if the book sucks...feel free to rate whatever you see fit!) For those who have not followed this writing journey, this book is based on real life events. My life. It’s fiction, but my life is woven in it. Keep that in mind when picking up this novel ☺️
-S.C. Gray
Of course, if the book sucks...feel free to rate whatever you see fit!) For those who have not followed this writing journey, this book is based on real life events. My life. It’s fiction, but my life is woven in it. Keep that in mind when picking up this novel ☺️
-S.C. Gray
November 6, 2021
3.5 ⭐️ Sweet romcom with lots of depth. Impressive debut by Stephanie Gray! 👍🏻
November 28, 2021
I am sorry but this book was not good for me.
The only reason why I did not DNF it, was because I read it for a buddy read with friends and I wanted to be able to talk about it.
The characters couldn't be more one dimensional if they tried. The conversations were so cringey. I do not think I laughed much in this rom com.
The FMC was so annoying. I could have not cared less about her life. I was not rooting for her. Every chapter she mentioned how much she loved her life in the town and hated her old life. EVERY DAMN CHAPTER!! After a while I just couldn't stand it anymore.
Do not even get me startet how she was pressuring the guy she JUST met into telling her his trauma. Like yo, patience and empathy? Heard of it. It made me so angry
And those damn rules?? WTH!!! Those are not rules,they are names of chapters or statements. Which they were fine, but do NOT name the book Rules for Dating a Book owner if there won't be rules on how to date on.
Needless to say, i did not like this book
The only reason why I did not DNF it, was because I read it for a buddy read with friends and I wanted to be able to talk about it.
The characters couldn't be more one dimensional if they tried. The conversations were so cringey. I do not think I laughed much in this rom com.
The FMC was so annoying. I could have not cared less about her life. I was not rooting for her. Every chapter she mentioned how much she loved her life in the town and hated her old life. EVERY DAMN CHAPTER!! After a while I just couldn't stand it anymore.
Do not even get me startet how she was pressuring the guy she JUST met into telling her his trauma. Like yo, patience and empathy? Heard of it. It made me so angry
And those damn rules?? WTH!!! Those are not rules,they are names of chapters or statements. Which they were fine, but do NOT name the book Rules for Dating a Book owner if there won't be rules on how to date on.
Needless to say, i did not like this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2021
I devoured this romantic small town read in a day - it’s what I needed during my staycation this week. The story is about Campbell Harrison, who is living my dream life - she gives up her day job to open up Turning Pages Bookshop in a small town away from anyone she knows to start anew. Gray takes us through the rules for dating a bookshop owner at every precious chapter and into the heart of Bishop Graham. With a strong female character, and amazing back stories, this gem of a novel tugged at all my heart strings.
May 9, 2024
With an interesting premise of a woman looking for a second chance in love, pursuing her dream and turning it into reality, I was interested to find out the Rules for Dating a Bookshop Owner.
But the rules in the books were not rules , just some general quotes that were applicable to the life lessons the FL was undergoing.
The book had all the marks for a typical Lifetime / Hallmark movie, unfortunately I am not a big fan of them.
It also claims to be a romcom but I do not recall laughing at any point while reading . The romance between the lead couple was lackluster , I missed the point when they fell for each other or how the bond got deeper.
While the individual backstory behind each of them was decent and made sense for them to be the way they are , it also had bits and pieces in the story that were emotionally connecting but did not stretch through the whole story.
I wasn't impressed overall. This book was definitely not for me.
It's a 2.75 / 5 🌟 read for me .
But the rules in the books were not rules , just some general quotes that were applicable to the life lessons the FL was undergoing.
The book had all the marks for a typical Lifetime / Hallmark movie, unfortunately I am not a big fan of them.
It also claims to be a romcom but I do not recall laughing at any point while reading . The romance between the lead couple was lackluster , I missed the point when they fell for each other or how the bond got deeper.
While the individual backstory behind each of them was decent and made sense for them to be the way they are , it also had bits and pieces in the story that were emotionally connecting but did not stretch through the whole story.
I wasn't impressed overall. This book was definitely not for me.
It's a 2.75 / 5 🌟 read for me .
July 18, 2022
I'm having a hard time writing this review, because I follow this author on Instagram, and I know how hard she worked on this book. But, it just wasn't for me.
I LOVE the cover. I love the concept of the story. I love the setting -- Salter's Ridge sounds like a charming place that anyone would want to visit. I love the MC's love for books (something she and I have in common!). I LOVE LOVE LOVE the theme of moving on from past hurts and starting new. And, one of my very favorite parts of the book was when the MC talks about how the only thing that was holding her back from making her dreams a reality was her. That hit home for me. I LOVE that this author took some of her life story, put it into a novel, worked her butt off to self-publish it, and then put her work out into the world. That to me, for any self-published author is a feat that needs to be celebrated!
But, something was just a little off for me. The timing of the book doesn't make sense in my brain. I really felt that it took place during the Thanksgiving/Christmas holidays, but then at the end of the book, it makes it seem like it was a months-long journey. I felt that the MC talked about how they left their old life and started a new one ad nauseam. The MC felt a little pushy, and also a little clueless. . As a former dachshund owner, I had a very hard time with the parts where the dachshund jumps out of her bicycle's basket. That kind of a jump could really and truly injure a dachshund! I love the title, but it doesn't fit this book -- her 'rules' aren't rules. They are good quotes or statements.
I know this is Gray's first book. And, by Part 2, you could tell that she was catching her writing stride. So, I have hope that her next one will be better than this one. I could see the promise in the book. There was just so much potential, but this one just fell a little flat for me.
I LOVE the cover. I love the concept of the story. I love the setting -- Salter's Ridge sounds like a charming place that anyone would want to visit. I love the MC's love for books (something she and I have in common!). I LOVE LOVE LOVE the theme of moving on from past hurts and starting new. And, one of my very favorite parts of the book was when the MC talks about how the only thing that was holding her back from making her dreams a reality was her. That hit home for me. I LOVE that this author took some of her life story, put it into a novel, worked her butt off to self-publish it, and then put her work out into the world. That to me, for any self-published author is a feat that needs to be celebrated!
But, something was just a little off for me. The timing of the book doesn't make sense in my brain. I really felt that it took place during the Thanksgiving/Christmas holidays, but then at the end of the book, it makes it seem like it was a months-long journey. I felt that the MC talked about how they left their old life and started a new one ad nauseam. The MC felt a little pushy, and also a little clueless. . As a former dachshund owner, I had a very hard time with the parts where the dachshund jumps out of her bicycle's basket. That kind of a jump could really and truly injure a dachshund! I love the title, but it doesn't fit this book -- her 'rules' aren't rules. They are good quotes or statements.
I know this is Gray's first book. And, by Part 2, you could tell that she was catching her writing stride. So, I have hope that her next one will be better than this one. I could see the promise in the book. There was just so much potential, but this one just fell a little flat for me.
December 5, 2021
decided to pick up a romance book after a long time & this looks so promising, coming from a bookshop setting 😍
however, i was quite disappointed bc i cant seem to enjoy this as much as i expected. centered around campbell, a bookshop owner, whom later met a guy names bishop around the neighbourhood - campbell soon realizes that she has feelings for him. after getting to know each other for some time and going through a relationship phase, campbell realizes that there are some things that she might not truly know about bishop whom has kept a secret...
ok so this was exactly the part where i was feeling irritated at the fact that campbell was so adamant in finding out bishop's secret even when it seems that he may not be fully comfortable in sharing with her yet like ???? sometimes u just gotta have some understanding, trust & PATIENCE sis like everyone have their own problems...and sometimes it just takes the right time to have open conversations...
from then on i realized that campbell is just not to my liking as a main character 🥲 from the way she said certain things to the way she behaves...just nope.
but i really do appreciate how the story emphasizes on the importance of letting go of past hurts and moving on.
p/s: i also didnt get the title bc i ended up not even remembering/knowing the rules - i personally felt that they are not tied well with the story :")
however, i was quite disappointed bc i cant seem to enjoy this as much as i expected. centered around campbell, a bookshop owner, whom later met a guy names bishop around the neighbourhood - campbell soon realizes that she has feelings for him. after getting to know each other for some time and going through a relationship phase, campbell realizes that there are some things that she might not truly know about bishop whom has kept a secret...
ok so this was exactly the part where i was feeling irritated at the fact that campbell was so adamant in finding out bishop's secret even when it seems that he may not be fully comfortable in sharing with her yet like ???? sometimes u just gotta have some understanding, trust & PATIENCE sis like everyone have their own problems...and sometimes it just takes the right time to have open conversations...
from then on i realized that campbell is just not to my liking as a main character 🥲 from the way she said certain things to the way she behaves...just nope.
but i really do appreciate how the story emphasizes on the importance of letting go of past hurts and moving on.
p/s: i also didnt get the title bc i ended up not even remembering/knowing the rules - i personally felt that they are not tied well with the story :")
March 24, 2022
10/10
By far the most incredible book I have read so far this year! I fell in love with every character and the story is just amazing. Seriously cannot wait for the sequel to be released!
By far the most incredible book I have read so far this year! I fell in love with every character and the story is just amazing. Seriously cannot wait for the sequel to be released!
December 6, 2021
4.5 - so cute; author gets me & lots of life wisdom .. I need more!
October 24, 2021
#29 The best gift is....
#5 Stop and smell the....
#27 Believe you deserve....
#13 Courage in the face of....
Things I loved about author S.C. Gray's debut novel Rules For Dating a Bookshop Owner, every chapter starts with a rule. 30 rules to be exact. Every rule is written with either substantial, thought out inspiration and encouragement or light, airy playfulness. This is how much of the novel is written as well. You're immediately drawn into the lives of the characters. The hardships and devastation they have lived through that has brought them to a point where unexpected love seems simply, unattainable. But with a community of friends, family, and kind-hearted people supporting you, you will learn that sorrow and celebration can coexist.
Things I hated about the novel Rules For Dating a Bookshop Owner, screw that no one needs that kind of negativity.
This novel is just the beginning for author S.C. Gray and I cannot wait to see what else she brings into this world for us to enjoy.
#5 Stop and smell the....
#27 Believe you deserve....
#13 Courage in the face of....
Things I loved about author S.C. Gray's debut novel Rules For Dating a Bookshop Owner, every chapter starts with a rule. 30 rules to be exact. Every rule is written with either substantial, thought out inspiration and encouragement or light, airy playfulness. This is how much of the novel is written as well. You're immediately drawn into the lives of the characters. The hardships and devastation they have lived through that has brought them to a point where unexpected love seems simply, unattainable. But with a community of friends, family, and kind-hearted people supporting you, you will learn that sorrow and celebration can coexist.
Things I hated about the novel Rules For Dating a Bookshop Owner, screw that no one needs that kind of negativity.
This novel is just the beginning for author S.C. Gray and I cannot wait to see what else she brings into this world for us to enjoy.
March 27, 2022
100000000/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I already can't wait to reread this. also.... *Immediately buys physical copy* I HIGHLY recommend this book. I just... I felt so many things during this book, all good. Campbell & Bishop's story was just *chef's kiss*
I already can't wait to reread this. also.... *Immediately buys physical copy* I HIGHLY recommend this book. I just... I felt so many things during this book, all good. Campbell & Bishop's story was just *chef's kiss*
January 26, 2022
This is definitely a cute rom com, I could totally see this being a lifetime movie!! I especially enjoyed the beginning thank you section where she described sitting with a book, blanket, a dog next to you and coffee.. because that’s exactly the position I was in when I was reading this book.
I think the story is nice overall, but I kept wanting a bit more.. everything felt really fast to me that’s why I went with 3 stars..with that being said I do think I would read more books by this author..
I think the story is nice overall, but I kept wanting a bit more.. everything felt really fast to me that’s why I went with 3 stars..with that being said I do think I would read more books by this author..
November 1, 2021
This book is so wonderful! It is honest, surprising, funny, and heartwarming. I can’t wait to find out what happens next with Campbell, Bishop, and the folks in Salter’s Ridge!
May 25, 2022
I feel like 3.5 stars is a more accurate rating (wish GoodReads would allow the half’s!) because I couldn’t quite vibe with the narrative voice. It almost felt like teenager trying to write as an adult.
And before you jump down my throat… I myself was a teenager trying to use an adult voice in writings 😂
But the romance was very sweet and (slight spoiler) no third act breakup!! It’s very reassuring to read romance novels where they stay happy and feel supportive.
Bonus: it takes place during the Christmas season, and I loved all the chapter titles. Bring them back!!!
And before you jump down my throat… I myself was a teenager trying to use an adult voice in writings 😂
But the romance was very sweet and (slight spoiler) no third act breakup!! It’s very reassuring to read romance novels where they stay happy and feel supportive.
Bonus: it takes place during the Christmas season, and I loved all the chapter titles. Bring them back!!!
Read
November 3, 2022First things first! Screaming HAPPY PUB DAY for this beauty! Pop that bubbly and celebrate what is bound to be a huge success! Now, onward we go!
What this book felt like: like being cuddled up with a big fluffy blanket, your dog (or cat, in my case. Don’t kill me for saying that Stephanie! 😂) and a big cup of coffee while your best friend tells you the story of how she came to be the person she is.
What it doesn’t feel like: a huge corn-fest. Why, you ask? Because Stephanie based much of this on her own life and love story. It’s emotional and not all rainbows and unicorns, but it IS perfection.
Perhaps one of my favorite parts of this book - a new rule at the start of every chapter. Such an incredibly unique characteristic for a book. While they’re all great rules, the one that spoke to me the most was #15: ‘Always bring a book. Just in case.’ No explanation needed.
I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve for the next novel. If her debut was this lovely, the second will be a true delight!
What this book felt like: like being cuddled up with a big fluffy blanket, your dog (or cat, in my case. Don’t kill me for saying that Stephanie! 😂) and a big cup of coffee while your best friend tells you the story of how she came to be the person she is.
What it doesn’t feel like: a huge corn-fest. Why, you ask? Because Stephanie based much of this on her own life and love story. It’s emotional and not all rainbows and unicorns, but it IS perfection.
Perhaps one of my favorite parts of this book - a new rule at the start of every chapter. Such an incredibly unique characteristic for a book. While they’re all great rules, the one that spoke to me the most was #15: ‘Always bring a book. Just in case.’ No explanation needed.
I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve for the next novel. If her debut was this lovely, the second will be a true delight!
November 4, 2021
Well I’ve waited til I have had a cocktail to write this review... I’m channeling my inner Campbell Harrison... owner of the beloved Turning Pages Bookshop in Rules For Dating A Bookshop Owner written by S.C. Gray
Magical... not the “witchey” kind of magic but the real life magic... shoot... the I want to be an independent woman and own a bookstore in a small town that surpasses “Stars Hallow” kind of magic...
If your still with me... thank you because seriously this book is a Treat... with a capital T... the romance I could talk about for hours... the friendships... even more... the aesthetic give me a day... and just the Self Worth... indescribable...
My major take away... I will read this multiple times to give me strength, during the hard days. Laughter, when I need that banter & Inspo when I need the creative juices because shoot your girl S.C Gray hit it out of the park! And I’m so lucky to know her!
Magical... not the “witchey” kind of magic but the real life magic... shoot... the I want to be an independent woman and own a bookstore in a small town that surpasses “Stars Hallow” kind of magic...
If your still with me... thank you because seriously this book is a Treat... with a capital T... the romance I could talk about for hours... the friendships... even more... the aesthetic give me a day... and just the Self Worth... indescribable...
My major take away... I will read this multiple times to give me strength, during the hard days. Laughter, when I need that banter & Inspo when I need the creative juices because shoot your girl S.C Gray hit it out of the park! And I’m so lucky to know her!
December 27, 2021
3.5/5 stars
This was definitely an easy, cute rom-com to read but I found it to be boring at times. The main characters were likeable and relatable. In every chapter Campbell talked about the unhappiness in her past life & being happy that she moved to Salter's Ridge. I get it added context to the story and gave the reader more understanding of her background but it started to get very redundant. After a while, it felt like the author just needed to fill the pages which is sad because I really enjoyed the idea of the story and the authors writing style!
I did find it cheesy at times but what's a rom-com without some cheese!
I picked this book up because I love small town bookstores, dogs and coffee! It had everything I love, I just wish it had more depth to it. If I'm being honest, Piper was my favorite character!!
In the end this won't keep me from purchasing the next book by this author.
This was definitely an easy, cute rom-com to read but I found it to be boring at times. The main characters were likeable and relatable. In every chapter Campbell talked about the unhappiness in her past life & being happy that she moved to Salter's Ridge. I get it added context to the story and gave the reader more understanding of her background but it started to get very redundant. After a while, it felt like the author just needed to fill the pages which is sad because I really enjoyed the idea of the story and the authors writing style!
I did find it cheesy at times but what's a rom-com without some cheese!
I picked this book up because I love small town bookstores, dogs and coffee! It had everything I love, I just wish it had more depth to it. If I'm being honest, Piper was my favorite character!!
In the end this won't keep me from purchasing the next book by this author.
September 18, 2022
“If there is one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s that no one has to understand the life you’re living. If it makes sense to you, don’t let other people’s opinions get in the way of being happy”
This book made me laugh, made me tear up multiple times, and was the first book I’ve ever annotated (there are so many amazing pages and quotes I wanted to remember). From the quick banter to the dreamy bookshop, the cozy small town, the sassy bestie, and the sweetest book pup, this book hit every mark for me. I didn’t want it to end! The perfect read for Veterans Day week and the holidays!
And no, there’s nothing better than a good book, a cup of coffee, and snuggling with my pup on the couch.❤️
This book made me laugh, made me tear up multiple times, and was the first book I’ve ever annotated (there are so many amazing pages and quotes I wanted to remember). From the quick banter to the dreamy bookshop, the cozy small town, the sassy bestie, and the sweetest book pup, this book hit every mark for me. I didn’t want it to end! The perfect read for Veterans Day week and the holidays!
And no, there’s nothing better than a good book, a cup of coffee, and snuggling with my pup on the couch.❤️
December 19, 2022
Rules For Dating A Bookshop Owner
By S.C. Gray
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a beautiful book inside and out! Bishop and Campbell have a place in my heart and I can’t wait to read the second book! This book made me laugh and it made me cry but in the end I just smiled and felt warm inside! I felt comfort in the most amazing way and to me that means it was such a great read! It had a little bit of fall and winter, which are my
favorite seasons. S.C. Gray did a great job writing about the characters past and what they needed to overcome in order for them to be together. It was very real, which made me love this book even more. One of my favorite books this year!
By S.C. Gray
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a beautiful book inside and out! Bishop and Campbell have a place in my heart and I can’t wait to read the second book! This book made me laugh and it made me cry but in the end I just smiled and felt warm inside! I felt comfort in the most amazing way and to me that means it was such a great read! It had a little bit of fall and winter, which are my
favorite seasons. S.C. Gray did a great job writing about the characters past and what they needed to overcome in order for them to be together. It was very real, which made me love this book even more. One of my favorite books this year!
July 30, 2022
DNF'd this. I've read this up until about 40%, and I find myself struggling to pick it up to continue the story. It's too bad cos I really liked the premise, but the female lead was too one-dimensional to me, and having a wet dream about the male lead, but was in fact your dog slobbering over you? Sorry, that's just all kinds of gross for me. I know it's supposed to be relatable, and yes I get that kind of scene happens IRL, but the writing was too 'try hard'.
I wanted to like this book a lot, but the style of writing just didn't cut it for me.
I wanted to like this book a lot, but the style of writing just didn't cut it for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2021
Did this just become my new favorite book? I’ve laughed hysterically, teared up, and fell in love with Campbell, Bishop, and Piper along the way. Stephanie has painted such a beautiful picture with words to describe the coziest bookstore in a quaint little town in Maine and I desperately wish it was a real place so I could go visit. This is a book I know I will find myself reaching for every year around the holidays. Rules For Dating A Bookshop deserves a spot on everyone’s TBR.
November 21, 2021
This sweet and cozy read is packed full of life lessons, motivation, and fun anecdotes. It’s not just a fluffy and fun read, it has depth and rawness as well. You can tell that Gray pulls from her own life experiences and that she’s telling this story from her heart. The narration feels more like talking to a good friend and the story is relatable and authentic.
With her debut novel, Gray delivers the perfect read for book lovers to gobble up!
With her debut novel, Gray delivers the perfect read for book lovers to gobble up!
January 31, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
This is a holiday romance (can read anytime of year in my opinion) about a book shop owner, Campbell, and a sexy veteran/firefighter, Bishop, who quite literally runs into her at her shop and what transpires is a beautiful and at moments sad love story. I’m talking all the feels! Both have dark pasts that have left a mark on these two, but, as they fall in love, they find there is more to life than your past.
This is a holiday romance (can read anytime of year in my opinion) about a book shop owner, Campbell, and a sexy veteran/firefighter, Bishop, who quite literally runs into her at her shop and what transpires is a beautiful and at moments sad love story. I’m talking all the feels! Both have dark pasts that have left a mark on these two, but, as they fall in love, they find there is more to life than your past.
January 9, 2022
I absolutely adored this book. From the moment I saw it on a book club Instagram, I knew I needed to read it. It made me laugh, it made me cry. I couldn’t put it down. To live in the little town of Salter’s Ridge alongside these characters would be a dream. I loved the instant (and very real) connection formed among the main characters.
December 13, 2021
This book is such a heartwarming debut from SC Grey! I absolutely loved Campbell and Bishop (and their names)…this story is proof that love is never perfect but always worth it!
December 30, 2021
Review coming soon! ❤️
November 6, 2021
Oh, Rules for Dating A Bookshop Owner...you gave me all the good feels!
For starters, is there nothing that the incredible S.C. Gray can't do? She's an author, business owner and incredible mom to two littles- I want that kind of energy!
As soon as Campbell opens the doors of Turning Pages bookshop, the magic in S.C. Gray's writing captures all the heart that is being in a bookstore and furthermore, the joy it is to be a bookseller.
Each chapter of the book is a new "rule" for dating a bookshop owner and it brought me such joy to read what was coming next.
Some of my favorite rules include:
Rule #15...Bring a book just in case.
Rule # 19 Never trust anyone who has a TV bigger than their book collection.
I loved Campbell's spunky personality throughout this story. She's a woman who knows what she wants and works incredibly hard to achieve it. Enter Bishop, veteran-turned firefighter whose past has left him struggling to cope post-tours of duty. Is this someone who will support Campbell's dreams? Both characters have worked hard to get to a place where they are deserving of love, yet, can they hold on it?
I very much enjoyed reading about the development of Campbell and Bishop's relationship. Bookshop, books, cute pups and a little Christmas in the mix? This novel was sheer perfection!
For starters, is there nothing that the incredible S.C. Gray can't do? She's an author, business owner and incredible mom to two littles- I want that kind of energy!
As soon as Campbell opens the doors of Turning Pages bookshop, the magic in S.C. Gray's writing captures all the heart that is being in a bookstore and furthermore, the joy it is to be a bookseller.
Each chapter of the book is a new "rule" for dating a bookshop owner and it brought me such joy to read what was coming next.
Some of my favorite rules include:
Rule #15...Bring a book just in case.
Rule # 19 Never trust anyone who has a TV bigger than their book collection.
I loved Campbell's spunky personality throughout this story. She's a woman who knows what she wants and works incredibly hard to achieve it. Enter Bishop, veteran-turned firefighter whose past has left him struggling to cope post-tours of duty. Is this someone who will support Campbell's dreams? Both characters have worked hard to get to a place where they are deserving of love, yet, can they hold on it?
I very much enjoyed reading about the development of Campbell and Bishop's relationship. Bookshop, books, cute pups and a little Christmas in the mix? This novel was sheer perfection!
April 2, 2023
Bookshops, Book Lovers, Dogs & Christmas Time.
I mean honestly what else do you need in a book?
I absolutely adored this book. It felt so cozy during the entire read. I was actually surprised but the depth and harder topics covered in this novel and was pleasantly surprised by how much i enjoyed it.
Campbell has run away from a challenging past and just wants to start over. Following her dreams to open a bookstore she faces hurdles, happiness, and even realizations that she’s finally found her family and her home in this new place.
Bishop, a veteran, is trying to cope with his experiences during deployment. He soon finds that alls he needed was right in front of him, in a place that was right under his nose.
I loved the representation of Bishop being a veteran and showing just a small look into some things that Veterans do have to endure when they’re coping. Campbell had such impressive character development during this novel and i adored her.
Piper was 100% my favorite character.
It’s giving: Found Family, “Enemies” to Lovers (kinda), small town romance, bookshop setting, veteran representation
I mean honestly what else do you need in a book?
I absolutely adored this book. It felt so cozy during the entire read. I was actually surprised but the depth and harder topics covered in this novel and was pleasantly surprised by how much i enjoyed it.
Campbell has run away from a challenging past and just wants to start over. Following her dreams to open a bookstore she faces hurdles, happiness, and even realizations that she’s finally found her family and her home in this new place.
Bishop, a veteran, is trying to cope with his experiences during deployment. He soon finds that alls he needed was right in front of him, in a place that was right under his nose.
I loved the representation of Bishop being a veteran and showing just a small look into some things that Veterans do have to endure when they’re coping. Campbell had such impressive character development during this novel and i adored her.
Piper was 100% my favorite character.
It’s giving: Found Family, “Enemies” to Lovers (kinda), small town romance, bookshop setting, veteran representation
November 5, 2021
I am going to start off by saying my least favorite book genre is romance....
However my heart is still swooning over this book! (And I don't use the word swooning)
Personally this book is exactly what I needed, there are chapters in the book that I felt were speaking directly towards me. Campbell the main character is impossible not to love. She is funny, sweet and has a heart of gold, plus she is a bookshop owner! (GOALS)
If you are looking for a love story with a couple of twists and turns that is not overly cheesy then get a copy from this absolute amazing debut author! Also if you are married or dating someone that is in the military or a military vet this may just speak to you as much as it spoke to me.
However my heart is still swooning over this book! (And I don't use the word swooning)
Personally this book is exactly what I needed, there are chapters in the book that I felt were speaking directly towards me. Campbell the main character is impossible not to love. She is funny, sweet and has a heart of gold, plus she is a bookshop owner! (GOALS)
If you are looking for a love story with a couple of twists and turns that is not overly cheesy then get a copy from this absolute amazing debut author! Also if you are married or dating someone that is in the military or a military vet this may just speak to you as much as it spoke to me.
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