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Borrow a Bookshop #2
Christmas at the Borrow a Bookshop
'Tis the season for finding love… and the perfect book
With just two weeks until Christmas, everything in Clove Lore should be perfect. But the latest holidaymaker to the Borrow a Bookshop is feeling far from festive…
Icelandic ex-bookseller Magnús Sturluson might be surrounded by love stories in the Bookshop, but he’s nursing a sadness that not even fiction can fix.
When Alexandra Robinson finds herself stranded in Clove Lore, she finds a safe place to hide from heartbreak. After all, all that’s waiting for her at home is a cheater boyfriend and the memories of her parents. As Alex finds herself embraced by the quirky village community, she finds her tough exterior thawing – and as she grows closer to Magnús, she finds an equally soft heart under his gruff shell.
It seems that Clove Lore is working its magic once again – until a great flood on Christmas Eve brings devastation in its wake. It’s up to Magnús and Alex to batten down the hatches and help bring the village back together again, while also introducing the locals to the Icelandic tradition of the jólabókaflóð – Yule book flood – where families and friends gather on Christmas Eve to exchange books and read together.
But can Magnús and Alex truly rescue the ruins of the village, and salvage their Christmas spirit? Or is there another complication lurking even closer than they thought?
A totally uplifting read that will lighten the winter gloom, for fans of Jenny Colgan and Trisha Ashley. Booklovers will adore this seasonal treat!
With just two weeks until Christmas, everything in Clove Lore should be perfect. But the latest holidaymaker to the Borrow a Bookshop is feeling far from festive…
Icelandic ex-bookseller Magnús Sturluson might be surrounded by love stories in the Bookshop, but he’s nursing a sadness that not even fiction can fix.
When Alexandra Robinson finds herself stranded in Clove Lore, she finds a safe place to hide from heartbreak. After all, all that’s waiting for her at home is a cheater boyfriend and the memories of her parents. As Alex finds herself embraced by the quirky village community, she finds her tough exterior thawing – and as she grows closer to Magnús, she finds an equally soft heart under his gruff shell.
It seems that Clove Lore is working its magic once again – until a great flood on Christmas Eve brings devastation in its wake. It’s up to Magnús and Alex to batten down the hatches and help bring the village back together again, while also introducing the locals to the Icelandic tradition of the jólabókaflóð – Yule book flood – where families and friends gather on Christmas Eve to exchange books and read together.
But can Magnús and Alex truly rescue the ruins of the village, and salvage their Christmas spirit? Or is there another complication lurking even closer than they thought?
A totally uplifting read that will lighten the winter gloom, for fans of Jenny Colgan and Trisha Ashley. Booklovers will adore this seasonal treat!
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2022
199 people are currently reading
2987 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 344 reviews
November 16, 2024
CHRISTMAS AT THE BORROW BOOKSHOP is definitely going down as one of my favorite Christmas reads of this year! Magnus is an Icelandic bookseller, or ex-bookseller (his shop didn’t succeed and he had to sell) whose brother has booked him a vacation at the Borrow Bookshop in Clove Lore, a quaint village in England where vacationers pay to stay for two weeks, run the bookshop during the day, and vacation in the village in the evening, with a free place to stay. While there, he meets Alex, who has run away on her ship after her boyfriend cheated on her. They quickly fall for each other. This is adorable, set at Christmastime, so bookish, and I just loved the characters so much. It was cozy and sweet and I just can’t express how I loved being under a warm blanket while devouring every word of these two falling in love. Highly recommended! 5/5 stars.
October 7, 2022
This was a faultless, festive read and I loved it so much! You can’t go wrong setting a story in a bookshop, even more so when it becomes a holiday by the sea too. Although this is the second book in the series, it can easily be read on its own and I found I enjoyed this one far more too.
The key protagonists, Magnus and Alex, are incredibly likeable from the beginning. Magnus has a certain magnetism about him that made me pull towards his character and I could have done with a few more scenes with him, to be honest! From Iceland, Magnus has been almost forced into staying at the bookshop as a joke by his family. When it was originally booked, it was intended for Magnus to stay with his girlfriend. Well, she is out of the picture and so is the job that Magnus had in Iceland. Coming to Devon, he is in a vulnerable state and this is immediately picked up on by the characters that welcome Magnus to the bookshop.
On the other hand, Alex is a whirlwind from the beginning. When readers first meet her, she is on her boat, sailing away from home. Alex is running away: not just from her boyfriend, but her life and everything she knows. Feeling trapped at home, Alex takes to the seas and eventually finds herself in Clove Lore, also drawn to the mesmerising Icelandic visitor.
Although this book is set in December, I don’t think it was too heavy on the Christmas vibes. In fact, reading it a couple of months before Christmas, I didn’t feel like it was too early to be immersed in a book that takes place during this festive time of year. Sure, there are some Christmas trees, tinsel, fairy lights and turkey, but they don’t dominate the narrative. It’s a good warm-up read to Christmas and instead readers are shown the delights of the bookshop, the community of Clove Lore and the perils of living by the sea.
The narrative is driven by the storms and winds that the weather forecast predicts. Alex’s arrival at Clove Lore is thanks to a storm; the climax of the novel is thanks to another winter downpour. It is dramatic and the way that Dunbar writes about it really increased the tension. I felt nervous for the seaside village and could see the dangers lurking with this storm. Furthermore, when Dunbar breaks away from the characters to describe the village (a bit like a drone and seeing its aerial footage), I thought these points were particularly atmospheric and made me enjoy the book even more. It made the story so much stronger and another reason why I liked it more than the first book.
I was excited to learn that this is not the end of the Bookshop series. The closing chapter about Alex and Magnus was really satisfying. I loved their characters so much that I hope they make an appearance again. Perhaps there is scope for a new series, just featuring them instead? Either way, I cannot wait to return to Clove Lore and read more about the adventures of the bookshop of dreams.
With thanks to Hera books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The key protagonists, Magnus and Alex, are incredibly likeable from the beginning. Magnus has a certain magnetism about him that made me pull towards his character and I could have done with a few more scenes with him, to be honest! From Iceland, Magnus has been almost forced into staying at the bookshop as a joke by his family. When it was originally booked, it was intended for Magnus to stay with his girlfriend. Well, she is out of the picture and so is the job that Magnus had in Iceland. Coming to Devon, he is in a vulnerable state and this is immediately picked up on by the characters that welcome Magnus to the bookshop.
On the other hand, Alex is a whirlwind from the beginning. When readers first meet her, she is on her boat, sailing away from home. Alex is running away: not just from her boyfriend, but her life and everything she knows. Feeling trapped at home, Alex takes to the seas and eventually finds herself in Clove Lore, also drawn to the mesmerising Icelandic visitor.
Although this book is set in December, I don’t think it was too heavy on the Christmas vibes. In fact, reading it a couple of months before Christmas, I didn’t feel like it was too early to be immersed in a book that takes place during this festive time of year. Sure, there are some Christmas trees, tinsel, fairy lights and turkey, but they don’t dominate the narrative. It’s a good warm-up read to Christmas and instead readers are shown the delights of the bookshop, the community of Clove Lore and the perils of living by the sea.
The narrative is driven by the storms and winds that the weather forecast predicts. Alex’s arrival at Clove Lore is thanks to a storm; the climax of the novel is thanks to another winter downpour. It is dramatic and the way that Dunbar writes about it really increased the tension. I felt nervous for the seaside village and could see the dangers lurking with this storm. Furthermore, when Dunbar breaks away from the characters to describe the village (a bit like a drone and seeing its aerial footage), I thought these points were particularly atmospheric and made me enjoy the book even more. It made the story so much stronger and another reason why I liked it more than the first book.
I was excited to learn that this is not the end of the Bookshop series. The closing chapter about Alex and Magnus was really satisfying. I loved their characters so much that I hope they make an appearance again. Perhaps there is scope for a new series, just featuring them instead? Either way, I cannot wait to return to Clove Lore and read more about the adventures of the bookshop of dreams.
With thanks to Hera books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2022
The Borrow a Bookshop series has one of the most enchanting premises I’ve ever read, and one I’m sure all of us bookworms would gladly live if it was for real. Who would not like to run a bookshop for a fortnight, in a fairy tale location and surrounded by a group of quirky and lovable neighbors? I sure do!
Although second in the series it can be perfectly read as a stand-alone as the Borrow a Bookshop is receiving a new holidaymaker all the way from Iceland this time. Magnús is an ex-bookseller nursing the failure of his bookshop back home. Alex is a young woman who finds herself stranded in Clove Lore after fleeing her hometown because of a heartbreak. The Christmas spirit will bring them together to mend their hearts, but a sudden flood on Christmas Eve will threaten their happy ever after.
It’s never too early to start reading Christmas stories, especially when they’re as uplifting as this one. It was a complete delight, not only because of the premise and setting but for all the new things the new characters brought to the series. Magnús and his Icelandic traditions brought a really charming flavor to the whole story. The Jólabókaflóo tradition is one should be exported everywhere! (they all get new books on Christmas Eve and spend the night reading).
The sense of community in the small village of Clove Lore was stronger than ever in the face of adversity. The support they gave to each other will make your heart warm and showed that working together we can overcome anything.
It was great to meet back some of the characters from The Borrow A Bookshop Holiday and see how life was treating them. Some of their stories dealt with issues as grief and learning to love again after the loss of your partner, and those added a more mature layer to the story.
This was a romance, yes, but also was a story about community and tradition that will put you right in the Christmas mood.
The Borrow a Bookshop will be receiving new tenants next spring and I just can’t wait to meet them!
Thanks to Hera Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the blog tour.
Although second in the series it can be perfectly read as a stand-alone as the Borrow a Bookshop is receiving a new holidaymaker all the way from Iceland this time. Magnús is an ex-bookseller nursing the failure of his bookshop back home. Alex is a young woman who finds herself stranded in Clove Lore after fleeing her hometown because of a heartbreak. The Christmas spirit will bring them together to mend their hearts, but a sudden flood on Christmas Eve will threaten their happy ever after.
It’s never too early to start reading Christmas stories, especially when they’re as uplifting as this one. It was a complete delight, not only because of the premise and setting but for all the new things the new characters brought to the series. Magnús and his Icelandic traditions brought a really charming flavor to the whole story. The Jólabókaflóo tradition is one should be exported everywhere! (they all get new books on Christmas Eve and spend the night reading).
The sense of community in the small village of Clove Lore was stronger than ever in the face of adversity. The support they gave to each other will make your heart warm and showed that working together we can overcome anything.
It was great to meet back some of the characters from The Borrow A Bookshop Holiday and see how life was treating them. Some of their stories dealt with issues as grief and learning to love again after the loss of your partner, and those added a more mature layer to the story.
This was a romance, yes, but also was a story about community and tradition that will put you right in the Christmas mood.
The Borrow a Bookshop will be receiving new tenants next spring and I just can’t wait to meet them!
Thanks to Hera Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the blog tour.
December 27, 2024
3.75✨⭐️
Christmas at the borrow-a-bookshop is a fun, Christmassy read, perfect for book lovers! It is the second in an interconnected standalone series, which I unfortunately didn’t know going into it. I think the book def hits harder when you’ve read the first book before this one, so take my review with a grain of salt!!
The writing style was really really pretty. It gave me the Christmas vibes and yeah I just loved it. While the romance was really cute, it was pretty much romance from the moment they first met and I get really icky over that. If you’re into insta-love I suggest checking it out tho!!
The concept is really unique, it’s literally what the title says, a bookshop you can borrow. It deals with some pretty hefty themes tho, so check triggers!
Christmas at the borrow-a-bookshop is a fun, Christmassy read, perfect for book lovers! It is the second in an interconnected standalone series, which I unfortunately didn’t know going into it. I think the book def hits harder when you’ve read the first book before this one, so take my review with a grain of salt!!
The writing style was really really pretty. It gave me the Christmas vibes and yeah I just loved it. While the romance was really cute, it was pretty much romance from the moment they first met and I get really icky over that. If you’re into insta-love I suggest checking it out tho!!
The concept is really unique, it’s literally what the title says, a bookshop you can borrow. It deals with some pretty hefty themes tho, so check triggers!
August 14, 2022
“Lestu, Borðaðu, Elskaðu, Dreymdu.”
~ Read, Eat, Love, Dream ~
Author Kiley Dunbar’s second book in the Borrow-A-Bookshop series features the ultimate Airbnb for us bibliophiles - a chance to stay for two weeks in a book shop! Can you imagine? 24/7 surrounded by books in a quaint Engish seaside village! Renters are encouraged to change the displays to books of their liking, bake using their own favourite recipes and sell in the attached coffee shop, recommend their one favourite authors and enjoy sleeping in a bedroom overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. I would be giddy with excitement!
Magnus Sturluson has booked the coveted two-week spot over Christmas and New Year in an effort to get away from festivities and happy people. He’s an Icelandic former bookseller but knows that his sadness runs too deep for fiction to fix.
When Alexandra Robinson’s 27ft river cruiser, Dagalien, crashes ashore at Clove Lore, Devon, in Storm Minnie, the locals know that her secrecy means she’s been sailing away from something or someone. Alex wants to be as far away from Christmas and happy people, too. When she is rescued by the hunky Icelander she has no intentions of “running towards the first hot landlubber she laid eyes on.” Fortunately, fate has other plans for her!
What delightful characters! Not only is Magnus delightful to look at, he’s also beautiful on the inside. You’ll have to read to find out more about this hunk with a heart….all I’ll tell you is that he bakes! Hunky, sweet and bakes! The delightful cast of characters in this seaside village will warm your heart.
You’ll love the Icelandic flavour of this novel as Dunbar discusses Icelandic words, food, and traditions. I loved learning about Jolabokafloo and how it connected to Storm Nora.
I loved Dunbar’s reminders not to live our lives afraid of failing, to find the courage and strength to carry on and hold on to hope for a brighter future, and to support others to get through their stormy days. Dunbar wants readers to channel what they garnered from recent world events about supporting each other and use this to create a better world for themselves and those around them.
I can’t wait for book 3 in the series coming in Spring 2023.
This delightful bookish break novel needs to top your Christmas reading list.
I was gifted this advance copy by Hera Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
~ Read, Eat, Love, Dream ~
Author Kiley Dunbar’s second book in the Borrow-A-Bookshop series features the ultimate Airbnb for us bibliophiles - a chance to stay for two weeks in a book shop! Can you imagine? 24/7 surrounded by books in a quaint Engish seaside village! Renters are encouraged to change the displays to books of their liking, bake using their own favourite recipes and sell in the attached coffee shop, recommend their one favourite authors and enjoy sleeping in a bedroom overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. I would be giddy with excitement!
Magnus Sturluson has booked the coveted two-week spot over Christmas and New Year in an effort to get away from festivities and happy people. He’s an Icelandic former bookseller but knows that his sadness runs too deep for fiction to fix.
When Alexandra Robinson’s 27ft river cruiser, Dagalien, crashes ashore at Clove Lore, Devon, in Storm Minnie, the locals know that her secrecy means she’s been sailing away from something or someone. Alex wants to be as far away from Christmas and happy people, too. When she is rescued by the hunky Icelander she has no intentions of “running towards the first hot landlubber she laid eyes on.” Fortunately, fate has other plans for her!
What delightful characters! Not only is Magnus delightful to look at, he’s also beautiful on the inside. You’ll have to read to find out more about this hunk with a heart….all I’ll tell you is that he bakes! Hunky, sweet and bakes! The delightful cast of characters in this seaside village will warm your heart.
You’ll love the Icelandic flavour of this novel as Dunbar discusses Icelandic words, food, and traditions. I loved learning about Jolabokafloo and how it connected to Storm Nora.
I loved Dunbar’s reminders not to live our lives afraid of failing, to find the courage and strength to carry on and hold on to hope for a brighter future, and to support others to get through their stormy days. Dunbar wants readers to channel what they garnered from recent world events about supporting each other and use this to create a better world for themselves and those around them.
I can’t wait for book 3 in the series coming in Spring 2023.
This delightful bookish break novel needs to top your Christmas reading list.
I was gifted this advance copy by Hera Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 21, 2022
Christmas at the Borrowed Bookshop
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 9/1/22
Author: Kiley Dunbar
Publisher: Hera Books
Pages: 292
Goodreads Rating: 4.16
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Hera Books and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Icelandic ex-bookseller Magnús Sturluson might be surrounded by love stories in the Bookshop, but he’s nursing a sadness that not even fiction can fix. When Alexandra Robinson finds herself stranded in Clove Lore, she finds a safe place to hide from heartbreak. After all, all that’s waiting for her at home is a cheater boyfriend and the memories of her parents. Alex grows closer to Magnús, she finds an equally soft heart under his gruff shell. A great flood on Christmas Eve brings devastation in its wake. It’s up to Magnús and Alex to help bring the village back together again, while also introducing the locals to the Icelandic tradition of the jólabókaflóð – Yule book flood – where families and friends gather on Christmas Eve to exchange books and read together.
My Thoughts: Clove Lore is more than your typical small town, it is filled with love, tradition, hope, and just everything you want where you live. This is a book in a series but I did not read the prior book, which I have read is just as good as this one. This was not a typical romantic trope, it was romance from the beginning, well until a great flood complicates things. I believe this is more than a romance, it is about community and tradition, which I adored. The characters were well developed with depth, charisma, connection, and chemistry. The cast of characters were just wonderful, I loved them all, and connected with them. The author’s style of writing was complex, emotional, festive, and kept me engaged from cover to cover. This was a lovely story to kick off the festive season and I would recommend to anyone who loves Christmas or romance books!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 9/1/22
Author: Kiley Dunbar
Publisher: Hera Books
Pages: 292
Goodreads Rating: 4.16
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Hera Books and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Icelandic ex-bookseller Magnús Sturluson might be surrounded by love stories in the Bookshop, but he’s nursing a sadness that not even fiction can fix. When Alexandra Robinson finds herself stranded in Clove Lore, she finds a safe place to hide from heartbreak. After all, all that’s waiting for her at home is a cheater boyfriend and the memories of her parents. Alex grows closer to Magnús, she finds an equally soft heart under his gruff shell. A great flood on Christmas Eve brings devastation in its wake. It’s up to Magnús and Alex to help bring the village back together again, while also introducing the locals to the Icelandic tradition of the jólabókaflóð – Yule book flood – where families and friends gather on Christmas Eve to exchange books and read together.
My Thoughts: Clove Lore is more than your typical small town, it is filled with love, tradition, hope, and just everything you want where you live. This is a book in a series but I did not read the prior book, which I have read is just as good as this one. This was not a typical romantic trope, it was romance from the beginning, well until a great flood complicates things. I believe this is more than a romance, it is about community and tradition, which I adored. The characters were well developed with depth, charisma, connection, and chemistry. The cast of characters were just wonderful, I loved them all, and connected with them. The author’s style of writing was complex, emotional, festive, and kept me engaged from cover to cover. This was a lovely story to kick off the festive season and I would recommend to anyone who loves Christmas or romance books!
December 20, 2025
Jauki ir pakankamai Kalėdiška knyga🎄❤️ Istorija negali būti bloga, jei ji vyksta knygyne! Tik nerekomenduoju audio formato, nes visiškai sugadino pagrindinio veikėjo įsivaizdavimą. Po 30% audio peršokau atgal į fizinę knygą, nes nu neįmanoma kaip blogai jį įgarsino!😄
September 5, 2022
The second in this series. This was another good read with plenty of atmosphere. Lots of Christmas references which is not surprising. The story was a good one and I throughly enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next one in this series. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
October 15, 2022
If you’ve dreamed of running a bookshop, Christmas at the Borrow a Bookshop by Kiley Dunbar is engaging women’s fiction with a side of romance.
Magnus is from Iceland and arrives in Cove Lore (a fictional Devonshire village) to run a bookshop for two weeks during Christmas. He’s discouraged in his personal life because of the recent failure of his bookstore business; however, the opportunity to run the bookshop in Cove Lore has been scheduled for quite some time and he feels obligated to fulfill his commitment. Alex is running away from her life after a difficult breakup and takes a sailboat out to sea. During a fierce storm she washes up on the shore of Cove Lore. Kind, thoughtful, and gentle Magnus rushes to her aid. Magnus offers her support and friendship as she recovers from her ordeal and begins to face her situation. On Christmas Eve, a devastating flood hits the village and Magnus and Alex work together to rescue the ruins and keep the Christmas spirit alive.
Christmas at the Borrow a Bookshop is an interesting story because this “borrow a bookshop” concept is real! There is a bookstore in Wigtown, Scotland where book lovers wait on a list for years for their opportunity to run a bookshop for two weeks. (Links to this shop can be found in my blog post) So, part of the fun of the book is knowing that this idea is based in reality. Would you consider the opportunity?
Magnus and Alex are likable characters as they support each other personally and help the village during and after the flood. Even though the story has a side of romance (a couple of moderately open-door scenes), I don’t think I’d categorize this story as romance because romance is not the primary focus. There are personal issues to resolve, a community to help, traditions to uphold, and a Christmas to celebrate. I categorize it as women’s fiction with a side of romance.
One thoughtful theme is definitely “supportive community.” The colorful cast of characters in this quaint seaside village rounds out the story. Other themes include helping others, the courage to carry on, supporting friends during their worst times, problem-solving, maintaining tradition, second chances, and hope for a brighter future.
Since Magnus is in charge of the bookstore and the flood has ruined the shop and much of the inventory, he suggests Jólabókaflóð…(in English: Yule book flood) as a way to save the Christmas spirit. This Icelandic tradition where family and friends gather on Christmas Eve to exchange books and read together is catching on in the United States and other countries, Even though the Yule book flood saves Christmas, I think the story can be read at any time of the year because it doesn’t have a heavy focus on Christmas. It just “happens” to be Christmas when the dramatic events of the book take place. For me, it seems that Christmas is part of the setting and not necessarily the focus of the story.
Does the title attract your attention?! I’m enthusiastically recommending this page-turning story for fans of women’s fiction with substantial themes, for readers who appreciate happy endings and books about books, and for book clubs. I need to note that this book is the second in a series but it can be read as a stand-alone (I haven’t read the first one). This is a series I may continue with!
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Magnus is from Iceland and arrives in Cove Lore (a fictional Devonshire village) to run a bookshop for two weeks during Christmas. He’s discouraged in his personal life because of the recent failure of his bookstore business; however, the opportunity to run the bookshop in Cove Lore has been scheduled for quite some time and he feels obligated to fulfill his commitment. Alex is running away from her life after a difficult breakup and takes a sailboat out to sea. During a fierce storm she washes up on the shore of Cove Lore. Kind, thoughtful, and gentle Magnus rushes to her aid. Magnus offers her support and friendship as she recovers from her ordeal and begins to face her situation. On Christmas Eve, a devastating flood hits the village and Magnus and Alex work together to rescue the ruins and keep the Christmas spirit alive.
Christmas at the Borrow a Bookshop is an interesting story because this “borrow a bookshop” concept is real! There is a bookstore in Wigtown, Scotland where book lovers wait on a list for years for their opportunity to run a bookshop for two weeks. (Links to this shop can be found in my blog post) So, part of the fun of the book is knowing that this idea is based in reality. Would you consider the opportunity?
Magnus and Alex are likable characters as they support each other personally and help the village during and after the flood. Even though the story has a side of romance (a couple of moderately open-door scenes), I don’t think I’d categorize this story as romance because romance is not the primary focus. There are personal issues to resolve, a community to help, traditions to uphold, and a Christmas to celebrate. I categorize it as women’s fiction with a side of romance.
One thoughtful theme is definitely “supportive community.” The colorful cast of characters in this quaint seaside village rounds out the story. Other themes include helping others, the courage to carry on, supporting friends during their worst times, problem-solving, maintaining tradition, second chances, and hope for a brighter future.
Since Magnus is in charge of the bookstore and the flood has ruined the shop and much of the inventory, he suggests Jólabókaflóð…(in English: Yule book flood) as a way to save the Christmas spirit. This Icelandic tradition where family and friends gather on Christmas Eve to exchange books and read together is catching on in the United States and other countries, Even though the Yule book flood saves Christmas, I think the story can be read at any time of the year because it doesn’t have a heavy focus on Christmas. It just “happens” to be Christmas when the dramatic events of the book take place. For me, it seems that Christmas is part of the setting and not necessarily the focus of the story.
Does the title attract your attention?! I’m enthusiastically recommending this page-turning story for fans of women’s fiction with substantial themes, for readers who appreciate happy endings and books about books, and for book clubs. I need to note that this book is the second in a series but it can be read as a stand-alone (I haven’t read the first one). This is a series I may continue with!
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
August 1, 2022
I absolutely adored the first Borrow a Bookshop book, and when I saw there was a Christmas addition to the series, I knew it would be special.
And my hunch was correct, this was completely fantastic. I was right at home back in Clove Lore, with it's up-along and down-along, depending on direction of travel, the local busybody matchmaker Mrs C, the couple from the first book who are now settled in the town, and Minty the person living in the big house!
But above all there is the book shop, and Magnus isn't really sure he want's this two week holiday of looking after the Borrow A Bookshop after his one shop failed in Iceland. He is a bit hard to instantly love but the second he meets the heroine of this book and spending time with her, well you couldn't help but fall for the Icelandic Viking!
For Alex has been likened to a mermaid, she is on the run, but washes up ashore in Clove Lore, and sets in place a chain of events that changes hers and Magnus's lives forever.
There are moments of real drama and heart in the mouth action in the book, which kept me on the edge of my seat, and although Christmas is present, and some Christmas traditions are present - this is far more about the spirit of Christmas, and community than about making you feel festive. Which means it's easily able to be read out of season, or early in your festive books TBR!
I believe this is the author's best book to date and most certainly my favourite. I am loving this funny little village, and all of its residents, and can't wait to see what will happen next in the series.
Thank you to Hera for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And my hunch was correct, this was completely fantastic. I was right at home back in Clove Lore, with it's up-along and down-along, depending on direction of travel, the local busybody matchmaker Mrs C, the couple from the first book who are now settled in the town, and Minty the person living in the big house!
But above all there is the book shop, and Magnus isn't really sure he want's this two week holiday of looking after the Borrow A Bookshop after his one shop failed in Iceland. He is a bit hard to instantly love but the second he meets the heroine of this book and spending time with her, well you couldn't help but fall for the Icelandic Viking!
For Alex has been likened to a mermaid, she is on the run, but washes up ashore in Clove Lore, and sets in place a chain of events that changes hers and Magnus's lives forever.
There are moments of real drama and heart in the mouth action in the book, which kept me on the edge of my seat, and although Christmas is present, and some Christmas traditions are present - this is far more about the spirit of Christmas, and community than about making you feel festive. Which means it's easily able to be read out of season, or early in your festive books TBR!
I believe this is the author's best book to date and most certainly my favourite. I am loving this funny little village, and all of its residents, and can't wait to see what will happen next in the series.
Thank you to Hera for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 29, 2022
This book has a fabulous setting. Why not become a Bookseller for the holidays.
I enjoyed the cozy romance. Alex and Magnus both had some complicated pasts. Magnus and his failed shop and Alex running from a relationship, well sailing actually. The Christmas time atmosphere gave this book some charm as well.
The things that I didn't like as much were the fact that it took a long time to get going. I started to lose interest during the first half. There were a bunch of characters too and the story did some jumping around between them.
Enjoyable overall and who doesn't like a book about a bookshop.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
I enjoyed the cozy romance. Alex and Magnus both had some complicated pasts. Magnus and his failed shop and Alex running from a relationship, well sailing actually. The Christmas time atmosphere gave this book some charm as well.
The things that I didn't like as much were the fact that it took a long time to get going. I started to lose interest during the first half. There were a bunch of characters too and the story did some jumping around between them.
Enjoyable overall and who doesn't like a book about a bookshop.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
December 19, 2024
I picked the first book in this series up back in 2021 on a whim and really loved it. So, when I recently found out there were several more—including a Christmas sequel—I knew I had to read it immediately. And it was just as heartwarmingly charming as I hoped it would be!
Set months after Jude and Elliot’s stay at The Borrow A Bookshop, we follow Magnús Sturluson (an Icelandic ex-bookseller) seeking comfort from the failure of his own beloved bookshop. And Alexandra Robinson, who flees her small village of Port Kernou (and finds herself inadvertently stranded in Clove Lore) after discovering her boyfriend’s infidelity.
After Magnús helps to save her during a storm, the pair become close, working together at the bookshop (and adjoining bakery) and that begins restore Magnús’s faith in book selling and Alex’s faith in herself.
Firstly, I loved returning to Clove Lore and getting to see soo many of the village’s residents again. And also loved that, though we primarily follow Magnús and Alex, (our incredibly engaging and relatable protagonists) we do also get POV chapters from some of the other villagers (like the matchmaking Mrs Crocombe, bookshop owner Jowan and even Minty-who owns the local Manor House) which I felt really added a realness and depth to the story.
It’s the second in the series (and can technically be read as a standalone) but I do suggest checking out book 1, as it was such a good read.
The layers of emotion Kiley Dunbar manages to capture and the intense, but utterly adorable romance that blossoms between Alex and Magnús literally stole my heart.
Plus, I learnt about a fabulous Icelandic Christmas tradition- Jólabókaflóð or Yule book flood, where families exchange books on Christmas Eve and spend the evening reading them. It sounds like such a great tradition, and one I now need to convince my family to include in our own festivities.
Overall, this was a warm cosy hug of a read that really embodied the spirit of Christmas, community (and has me soo eager to explore the rest of the series.)
Set months after Jude and Elliot’s stay at The Borrow A Bookshop, we follow Magnús Sturluson (an Icelandic ex-bookseller) seeking comfort from the failure of his own beloved bookshop. And Alexandra Robinson, who flees her small village of Port Kernou (and finds herself inadvertently stranded in Clove Lore) after discovering her boyfriend’s infidelity.
After Magnús helps to save her during a storm, the pair become close, working together at the bookshop (and adjoining bakery) and that begins restore Magnús’s faith in book selling and Alex’s faith in herself.
Firstly, I loved returning to Clove Lore and getting to see soo many of the village’s residents again. And also loved that, though we primarily follow Magnús and Alex, (our incredibly engaging and relatable protagonists) we do also get POV chapters from some of the other villagers (like the matchmaking Mrs Crocombe, bookshop owner Jowan and even Minty-who owns the local Manor House) which I felt really added a realness and depth to the story.
It’s the second in the series (and can technically be read as a standalone) but I do suggest checking out book 1, as it was such a good read.
The layers of emotion Kiley Dunbar manages to capture and the intense, but utterly adorable romance that blossoms between Alex and Magnús literally stole my heart.
Plus, I learnt about a fabulous Icelandic Christmas tradition- Jólabókaflóð or Yule book flood, where families exchange books on Christmas Eve and spend the evening reading them. It sounds like such a great tradition, and one I now need to convince my family to include in our own festivities.
Overall, this was a warm cosy hug of a read that really embodied the spirit of Christmas, community (and has me soo eager to explore the rest of the series.)
November 13, 2024
A cute rom-com, with a happy ending. Sadly I was lost somewhere with its "lazy start" and too many characters monopolizing the main spotlight. I was always, "Okay, enough with Minty, what about Alex?".
Overall the setting was idyllic and completely new, so I will definetely be trying Dunbar's other books.
Overall the setting was idyllic and completely new, so I will definetely be trying Dunbar's other books.
December 22, 2022
Sin duda, esta historia está hecha para todos aquellos que en algún momento hemos querido tener una tienda de libros. Y es que la premisa no puede ser más original: un pueblecito en Inglaterra donde el huésped de la librería paga para quedarse y llevarla de día para poder disfrutar de sus vacaciones cuando termina la jornada.
Clove Lore es un lugar tan idílico que logra atravesar las páginas y hacer que quieras vivir allí. Las vibes de pueblo pequeño y los carismáticos que son sus habitantes hacen de este pueblecito un lugar entrañable donde los sueños se cumplen.
Los protagonistas —Magnus y Alex —me han gustado mucho. Están bien construidos y sus personalidades están bien definidas y van acorde con lo que ha ocurrido en sus vidas. Ojalá hubiera habido más escenas de Magnus. No quisiera yo decir nada, pero... ¿El típico grumpy islandés que parece frío como un tempano de hielo pero que por dentro tiene un gran corazón? Sí, por favor. Es uno de los personajes masculinos con más encanto que he leído en mucho tiempo.
Además, algo que me ha hecho disfrutar muchísimo de esta lectura es la enseñanza tradicional que me ha dejado. ¿Sabéis lo que es el Jólabókaflód? Yo tampoco lo sabía antes de leer esta historia y os adelanto que os va a flipar la idea. Se trata, ni más ni menos, que de una tradición islandesa en la que en Nochebuena se regalan libros y se pasan la noche y el día de Navidad leyendo en familia. No sé a vosotros, pero a mí me ha explotado la cabeza con lo que me gustan la Navidad y los libros.
Aunque la portada es muy navideña, creo que es más apropiado decir que es un libro estacional y que se puede leer en cualquier época del año, pero hacerlo con una manta y una taza de té calentito pues, la verdad, suma puntos.
Es el segundo libro de una serie, pero puede leerse perfectamente solo sin necesidad de leer el anterior.
Otra cosa que me ha llamado mucho la atención es que el tiempo meteorológico juega un papel muy importante en el desarrollo de la historia y la descripción narrativa. La atmosfera que la autora crea con esto resulta brillante.
En definitiva, si buscáis una historia con el cliché pueblo pequeño y que os traslade a un lugar dulce y acogedor, tenéis que darle una oportunidad a esta historia.
Muchísimas gracias a Hera Books y NG por darme la oportunidad de leer y reseñar esta historia.
Clove Lore es un lugar tan idílico que logra atravesar las páginas y hacer que quieras vivir allí. Las vibes de pueblo pequeño y los carismáticos que son sus habitantes hacen de este pueblecito un lugar entrañable donde los sueños se cumplen.
Los protagonistas —Magnus y Alex —me han gustado mucho. Están bien construidos y sus personalidades están bien definidas y van acorde con lo que ha ocurrido en sus vidas. Ojalá hubiera habido más escenas de Magnus. No quisiera yo decir nada, pero... ¿El típico grumpy islandés que parece frío como un tempano de hielo pero que por dentro tiene un gran corazón? Sí, por favor. Es uno de los personajes masculinos con más encanto que he leído en mucho tiempo.
Además, algo que me ha hecho disfrutar muchísimo de esta lectura es la enseñanza tradicional que me ha dejado. ¿Sabéis lo que es el Jólabókaflód? Yo tampoco lo sabía antes de leer esta historia y os adelanto que os va a flipar la idea. Se trata, ni más ni menos, que de una tradición islandesa en la que en Nochebuena se regalan libros y se pasan la noche y el día de Navidad leyendo en familia. No sé a vosotros, pero a mí me ha explotado la cabeza con lo que me gustan la Navidad y los libros.
Aunque la portada es muy navideña, creo que es más apropiado decir que es un libro estacional y que se puede leer en cualquier época del año, pero hacerlo con una manta y una taza de té calentito pues, la verdad, suma puntos.
Es el segundo libro de una serie, pero puede leerse perfectamente solo sin necesidad de leer el anterior.
Otra cosa que me ha llamado mucho la atención es que el tiempo meteorológico juega un papel muy importante en el desarrollo de la historia y la descripción narrativa. La atmosfera que la autora crea con esto resulta brillante.
En definitiva, si buscáis una historia con el cliché pueblo pequeño y que os traslade a un lugar dulce y acogedor, tenéis que darle una oportunidad a esta historia.
Muchísimas gracias a Hera Books y NG por darme la oportunidad de leer y reseñar esta historia.
September 6, 2022
A very sweet and cosy read. It was a pleasure to meet some of the characters from the earlier books in this series. It’s a tale of new beginnings and reminds us of the strength in a close-knit community. Loved it.
September 2, 2022
There was so much I loved about this book – it’s such a special Christmassy read (although, to be honest, I’d happily read it at any time of the year…) – that I hardly know where to start. But let’s begin with Magnús and Alex, and the book’s central (but certainly not only…) romance. Running someone else’s bookshop for Christmas might not have been the best of gifts for Magnús, over from Iceland for a stint at the Borrow a Bookshop after his own attempt to become a bookseller – his life’s dream – has collapsed. But then Alex comes into his life – and in a rather dramatic way, when her boat is washed up on the beach at Clove Lore. Life hasn’t been treating her well either, and she just can’t face the prospect of “going home” – and when their paths cross for a second time, they both feel the spark. Perhaps they can run the Borrow a Bookshop together – there’s a cafe she can run just like her mum used to (her happy place…), and he can focus on the books. And as their attraction grows, it looks as if it might be a happier Christmas than either of them was expecting.
But then… that storm that washed Alex ashore hasn’t gone away. As the flood water flows through Up-along and Down-along, it soon becomes clear that no-one in Clove Lore is going to be getting quite the Christmas they expected or hoped for. And the story’s canvas widens from the early stages of romance, as the whole community becomes involved in dealing with the devastating impact of the weather-related disaster – and the storylines multiply, featuring all the characters anyone who read the author’s earlier book will already know and love. But there’s honestly no need to have ever visited Clove Lore or the Borrow a Bookshop before – you’ll soon get to know everyone really well, and become completely involved in all their lives.
The characterisation is simply wonderful, every individual very real – even when they tend towards the quirky, as many of them do – and every single one of them has their own fascinating slice of the story. And all the drama – my goodness, there are some superbly handled edge-of-the-seat moments, lots of unexpected twists and turns, as everyone pulls together. And there are lots of emotional moments too – there’s the possibility of a second, more mature romance (I so wanted that one to work out!), but loads of other times when the warmth of friendships and individuals’ capacity to care can’t help but bring a tear to your eye (almost always followed by a smile and a glow in your heart…). And through all the trials and tribulations, the connection between Magnús and Alex continues to grow, although there are unexpected personal hurdles for them to negotiate – it was a romance I absolutely believed in, and I was totally invested in the possibility of a happy ending.
I know it’s early days yet, but this is the one I’d urge everyone to add to their Christmas reading list. Just perfect – without question one of my books of the year, and very highly recommended.
But then… that storm that washed Alex ashore hasn’t gone away. As the flood water flows through Up-along and Down-along, it soon becomes clear that no-one in Clove Lore is going to be getting quite the Christmas they expected or hoped for. And the story’s canvas widens from the early stages of romance, as the whole community becomes involved in dealing with the devastating impact of the weather-related disaster – and the storylines multiply, featuring all the characters anyone who read the author’s earlier book will already know and love. But there’s honestly no need to have ever visited Clove Lore or the Borrow a Bookshop before – you’ll soon get to know everyone really well, and become completely involved in all their lives.
The characterisation is simply wonderful, every individual very real – even when they tend towards the quirky, as many of them do – and every single one of them has their own fascinating slice of the story. And all the drama – my goodness, there are some superbly handled edge-of-the-seat moments, lots of unexpected twists and turns, as everyone pulls together. And there are lots of emotional moments too – there’s the possibility of a second, more mature romance (I so wanted that one to work out!), but loads of other times when the warmth of friendships and individuals’ capacity to care can’t help but bring a tear to your eye (almost always followed by a smile and a glow in your heart…). And through all the trials and tribulations, the connection between Magnús and Alex continues to grow, although there are unexpected personal hurdles for them to negotiate – it was a romance I absolutely believed in, and I was totally invested in the possibility of a happy ending.
I know it’s early days yet, but this is the one I’d urge everyone to add to their Christmas reading list. Just perfect – without question one of my books of the year, and very highly recommended.
September 6, 2022
I read The Borrow a Bookshop Holiday by Kiley last year, so I was so happy when I saw there was going to be another book and it would be set at Christmas, I was all kinds of happy, then I was given an advanced copy and you think things can’t get better for me, well they did because did you see the cover, how gorgeous, how adorable, Christmassy and warm and I just want to jump into that cover. I haven’t even told you how much I loved this book yet !
It will come as no surprise after my gushing that I adored this book, just as much, maybe more as I did the first, I think I fall in love with Kiley’s writing and characters more with each book I read, you want romance, drama, family, friendships, community and a hug in book form, then you won’t go wrong picking up one of Kiley Dunbar’s books.
Although this is the second book in the series, this can definitely be read as a stand-alone ( I mean I don’t know why you wouldn’t want to devour the first too, but free will and everything, but seriously you’re gonna love the first book too, why would you want to miss out) I loved the community in the first, but I think they pull together even more here, there is definitely an even stronger sense of community this time. There so much drama, heart in this, Kileys books are always fantastic, the romance is gorgeous but I love that community, friendships are placed as equals to romance, celebrating love in all its forms.
Magnus and Alex are fantastic characters, but so are all the supporting characters and villagers, it’s what makes the book stronger when all the characters are relatable and well developed. I believe there’s going to be another book due in Spring and I will definitely be reading and eagerly awaiting that book. Kiley Dunbar is on my go to list of authors now, long may she continue to write books like these and I’ll throw my money at her time and again.
Thanks to Hera Books, Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Kiley Dunbar for the opportunity to read an advanced copy and take part in the blog tour. All opinions are my own and freely given.
It will come as no surprise after my gushing that I adored this book, just as much, maybe more as I did the first, I think I fall in love with Kiley’s writing and characters more with each book I read, you want romance, drama, family, friendships, community and a hug in book form, then you won’t go wrong picking up one of Kiley Dunbar’s books.
Although this is the second book in the series, this can definitely be read as a stand-alone ( I mean I don’t know why you wouldn’t want to devour the first too, but free will and everything, but seriously you’re gonna love the first book too, why would you want to miss out) I loved the community in the first, but I think they pull together even more here, there is definitely an even stronger sense of community this time. There so much drama, heart in this, Kileys books are always fantastic, the romance is gorgeous but I love that community, friendships are placed as equals to romance, celebrating love in all its forms.
Magnus and Alex are fantastic characters, but so are all the supporting characters and villagers, it’s what makes the book stronger when all the characters are relatable and well developed. I believe there’s going to be another book due in Spring and I will definitely be reading and eagerly awaiting that book. Kiley Dunbar is on my go to list of authors now, long may she continue to write books like these and I’ll throw my money at her time and again.
Thanks to Hera Books, Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Kiley Dunbar for the opportunity to read an advanced copy and take part in the blog tour. All opinions are my own and freely given.
September 14, 2022
This book gives all the sweet vibes!
I loved that the romance was sweet and happy! The characters back stories were interesting and I loved how it brought both people to this moment, to meet each other. It just made me happy.
The small town is so sweet, and the parts of the story that bring in other townspeople are really cute. I felt like they were my neighbors. Love this quaint town! And the ending - I had tears!!
And of course, the idea of the Borrow a Bookshop is just fantastic. I think it would be a really fun time and having this be a premise of a book series where we can continue to meet new people who fall in love is just idyllic!
This is definitely a favorite cozy romance series of mine and I can't wait to see what Dunbar comes up with next!
I loved that the romance was sweet and happy! The characters back stories were interesting and I loved how it brought both people to this moment, to meet each other. It just made me happy.
The small town is so sweet, and the parts of the story that bring in other townspeople are really cute. I felt like they were my neighbors. Love this quaint town! And the ending - I had tears!!
And of course, the idea of the Borrow a Bookshop is just fantastic. I think it would be a really fun time and having this be a premise of a book series where we can continue to meet new people who fall in love is just idyllic!
This is definitely a favorite cozy romance series of mine and I can't wait to see what Dunbar comes up with next!
December 3, 2023
This book took me forever to read. I do not like to DNF books-I can only imagine the effort the author put into writing them-but the story was very dull with many unnecessary scenes and details and different POVs and a bunch of characters I did not care about.
2 stars for the concept (a cute little bookshop that you can borrow sounds so fun) and for the authors effort.
2 stars for the concept (a cute little bookshop that you can borrow sounds so fun) and for the authors effort.
December 24, 2024
I think I just need to accept my fate with all these Christmas books being a bit crap
November 10, 2022
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Hera Books for approving me for an ARC of this book.
I have to say that the idea that I could have a holiday in a bookshop and get my chance to run it for a week is an amazing idea. As a bookaholic I can’t think of a better way to spend my time and spread the bookish love to others. The Icelandic tradition on Christmas eve was a beautiful feature and one I intend to share with my fellow book lovers this year.
I will admit that I found it very hard to warm to Magnus at the start. His icy exterior and grumpiness was not the Christmas cheer that I was expecting but once he met Alex he certainly started to brighten up. I liked the romance between Alex and Magnus, they seem to have an ease about them that felt effortless. The way they talked to each other and helped to solve the others problems just showed how well suited they were. Obviously they both had their baggage and it was entertaining seeing how they both overcome their different obstacles.
As well as this budding romance we also had the added element of the storm that was brewing throughout the story, threatening to ruin Clove Lore and all that it holds dear. I wasn’t too sure what to make of this part of the story as it meant that we follows a lot of different story lines, so of much were not necessary. It was nice to meet the other characters and get a sense of community but with the story being told in their POV as well I did inf it confusing at times.
That being said, this was a quick, easy and cosy read. It had community spirit and love at it’s core which made it an enjoyable read.
I have to say that the idea that I could have a holiday in a bookshop and get my chance to run it for a week is an amazing idea. As a bookaholic I can’t think of a better way to spend my time and spread the bookish love to others. The Icelandic tradition on Christmas eve was a beautiful feature and one I intend to share with my fellow book lovers this year.
I will admit that I found it very hard to warm to Magnus at the start. His icy exterior and grumpiness was not the Christmas cheer that I was expecting but once he met Alex he certainly started to brighten up. I liked the romance between Alex and Magnus, they seem to have an ease about them that felt effortless. The way they talked to each other and helped to solve the others problems just showed how well suited they were. Obviously they both had their baggage and it was entertaining seeing how they both overcome their different obstacles.
As well as this budding romance we also had the added element of the storm that was brewing throughout the story, threatening to ruin Clove Lore and all that it holds dear. I wasn’t too sure what to make of this part of the story as it meant that we follows a lot of different story lines, so of much were not necessary. It was nice to meet the other characters and get a sense of community but with the story being told in their POV as well I did inf it confusing at times.
That being said, this was a quick, easy and cosy read. It had community spirit and love at it’s core which made it an enjoyable read.
February 23, 2023
Although this is the second book in the series it can be read as stand alone.
Alex makes a difficult discovery and takes off from home in her boat but becomes stranded in a difficult weather. She is taken in by a local who happens to own the lical Bookshop. Magnus has left Iceland to holiday in Clove Lore and run the bookshop for 2 weeks but is unhappy at the idea.
When they meet there is attraction but they are aware Magnus is only on holiday for 2 weeks. However, Clove Lore's match-making magic strikes again. When a great storm hits the village and coast it throws the villagers together. It's a testing time for everyone but can they pull together?
I loved this story which had drama and emotion but highlighting also highlighting kindness, love and community spirit.
I enjoyed reading about Iceland and their Christmas Eve tradition of jólabókaflóð. This is a lovely idea and one more people should try.
Alex makes a difficult discovery and takes off from home in her boat but becomes stranded in a difficult weather. She is taken in by a local who happens to own the lical Bookshop. Magnus has left Iceland to holiday in Clove Lore and run the bookshop for 2 weeks but is unhappy at the idea.
When they meet there is attraction but they are aware Magnus is only on holiday for 2 weeks. However, Clove Lore's match-making magic strikes again. When a great storm hits the village and coast it throws the villagers together. It's a testing time for everyone but can they pull together?
I loved this story which had drama and emotion but highlighting also highlighting kindness, love and community spirit.
I enjoyed reading about Iceland and their Christmas Eve tradition of jólabókaflóð. This is a lovely idea and one more people should try.
December 23, 2022
The Borrow a Bookshop is a bookshop you can actually borrow, as a two-week holiday. Magnus is the newest 'borrower', but he doesn't seem happy about it at all... He is preoccupied with his own bookshop going bust and he feels like a failure. No worries, of course, seeing the type of book this is, that will all be temporary. Soon, a woman will wash up ashore that he'll fall in love with.
I was so annoyed at the instant love! Some blue eyes were enough in love to fall in love right away. The woman is "like a mermaid". But then, it is so cozy, being with them in this bookshop, with the fire lit... In the epilogue, Kiley Dunbar describes how she wanted the romance to be light and easy. Not like the Kinsella stories with endless misunderstandings and rows. And I have to agree that it makes for nice, cozy holiday reading.
I was so annoyed at the instant love! Some blue eyes were enough in love to fall in love right away. The woman is "like a mermaid". But then, it is so cozy, being with them in this bookshop, with the fire lit... In the epilogue, Kiley Dunbar describes how she wanted the romance to be light and easy. Not like the Kinsella stories with endless misunderstandings and rows. And I have to agree that it makes for nice, cozy holiday reading.
September 4, 2022
.
Communion and blessings for donkeys, the quirky town, the quirky people, a devastating storm, a budding romance, a second chance, betrayal , loss, resillience. Oh boy i was here for it all. I devoured this book. I wanted to be part of the communitytheir daily lives. I was there through good days and bad days. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
Communion and blessings for donkeys, the quirky town, the quirky people, a devastating storm, a budding romance, a second chance, betrayal , loss, resillience. Oh boy i was here for it all. I devoured this book. I wanted to be part of the communitytheir daily lives. I was there through good days and bad days. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
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August 16, 2022A fun read, if a bit muddled. The villagers are still delightful but I wish so many stories were t touched on at once, it leaves things feeling messy and not detailed enough to follow along with comfortably. Magnus and Alex were lovely but their relationship did move a bit too fast for me. Glad to see things changed up with the bookshop and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
December 14, 2024
What a lovely heartwarming read. Although the plot was predictable, this was well written with a host of realistic likeable characters. I especially thought the chemistry between the two main characters was very believable and the tension was palpable. Highly recommend
December 23, 2024
Ok this was actually better than I expected. Cute vibes also kinda tense I won’t lie. I just wished it was a little bit longer/ the time frame was longer and that there wasn’t as many characters as it was confusing in the beginning.
December 27, 2024
I enjoyed this as my last Christmas read of the year. It was fun and cozy. I do feel like the story was a little rushed in places, but I liked that there was a variety of different love stories happening throughout the story.
January 3, 2023
Another lovely read, my second of The Borrow a Bookshop series by Kiley Dunbar, Kiley creates fun, believable characters with a storyline that isn’t always quite what you expect. A few twists and turns along the way keep the pages turning.
I love the premise of these books and wonder if it’s something that could happen in real life. I’d be more than happy to play bookshops, especially in a beautiful location.
I saw just today that a third in this serious is due out in March, I’m looking forward to that and will definitely be reading it!
I love the premise of these books and wonder if it’s something that could happen in real life. I’d be more than happy to play bookshops, especially in a beautiful location.
I saw just today that a third in this serious is due out in March, I’m looking forward to that and will definitely be reading it!
December 15, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. Main protagonists liked each other to start, and it had a happy ever after. A lovely Christmas story, with sensitive topics.
I read it as my first Kiley Dunbar book even though it's #2 in a series - I can't say I would have needed to read #1.
I read it as my first Kiley Dunbar book even though it's #2 in a series - I can't say I would have needed to read #1.
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