Cover Image: The Bookshop of Second Chances

The Bookshop of Second Chances

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Member Reviews

I got an ARC for this back before publication, but couldn’t get into it, now I saw the audiobook on my library and decided to borrow it, it was ok, Thea was quite likable and easy to relate to, and we don’t see many over 40 ladies being the FMC, but I couldn’t stand Edward, he was such a terrible person and for what? Something that happened 30 years ago and didn’t deal with, oof, but overall it was a cute read and the narrator was amazing.

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Scotland is next up for my travel bucket list so of course I wanted to read a book set in Scotland that takes place above and in a bookstore!! I loved the characters and my trip to the beach. This is definitely a romance for book lovers though a bit on the slow side, especially the end bit.

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Thea Mottram is having a bad month. She’s been let go from her office job with no notice—and to make matters even worse, her husband of nearly twenty years has decided to leave her for one of her friends. Bewildered and completely lost, Thea doesn’t know what to do. But when she learns that a distant great uncle in Scotland has passed away, leaving her his home and a hefty antique book collection, she decides to leave Sussex for a few weeks. Escaping to a small coastal town where no one knows her seems to be exactly what she needs.

Almost instantly, Thea becomes enamored with the quaint cottage, comforted by its cozy rooms and lovely but neglected garden. The locals in nearby Baldochrie are just as warm, quirky, and inviting. The only person she can’t seem to win over is bookshop owner Edward Maltravers, to whom she hopes to sell her uncle’s book collection. His gruff attitude—fueled by an infamous, long-standing feud with his brother, a local lord—tests Thea’s patience. But bickering with Edward proves oddly refreshing and exciting, leading Thea to develop feelings she hasn’t experienced in a long time. As she follows a thrilling yet terrifying impulse to stay in Scotland indefinitely, Thea realizes that her new life may quickly become just as complicated as the one she

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I loved the setting of this book and the cast of charming characters! I grew to love them and became interested in seeing them succeed. The book felt a little cliche for my liking and the romance did not make me feel anything. I would have liked for it to feel a little more real between the characters. Overall it was a quick and fun read.

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"The Bookshop of Second Chances" by Jackie Fraser is like a cozy blanket on a rainy day – comforting, heartwarming, and just what you need to lift your spirits. Fraser’s tale, set in a quaint Scottish town, is a delightful read that offers a mix of romance, self-discovery, and the magic of books. The characters are wonderfully flawed and relatable, and the Scottish backdrop adds a charming touch. I'm giving it a well-deserved 4 stars because, while it's not groundbreaking, it's the kind of book you recommend to a friend who needs a pick-me-up. Perfect for those who love a good book about books, second chances, and finding love where you least expect it!

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Very well written book. Really enjoyed this author, would definitely read more by this author and recommend on my book IG

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I love books about books and book lovers. This combined with the older protagonist in a romance set in a rural countryside - this was the perfect comfy, cozy vibes.

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This was such a cozy, fun, romantic story—I loved the community, cast of characters, and witty voice. A delightful romance!

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This book has the whole grumpy/sunshine vibe going on. That said, the plot just fell a bit flat to me. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't super memorable either. Cheating is a major part of the plot, which I didn't love. I also felt that the FMC's reaction, given her current situation, just didn't make sense. Mild spice.

Overall, I'd rate it 3 stars.

🧚🏻Thank you to NetGalley, Ballantine Books, and author Jackie Fraser for originally presenting me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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DNF at 18%. Just could not get into the storyline, I was super bored unfortunately. I did like that the FMC was in her 40’s and I loved the bookstore. But, I just couldn’t get into the story.

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What an adorable cover!! I definitely judged this one by the cover and I'm glad I did. I thought it was a fresh plot focusing on older characters. The first half of this book was slow for me, but I adored the second half!

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I absolutely adored this book. The dynamic between Thea and Edward was hilarious, but also so sweet and cute. I enjoyed watching them fall for each other, while also learning about themselves and what they want. The cast of characters that surrounded them made the story that much funnier and more realistic. I identified with Thea so much more than I thought I would! And the story revolves around books and a bookstore--what could be bad about that??

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This was a delightful read. Anything with a bookstore and falling in love get a big thumbs up! I enjoyed the book and thank you for the opportunity to read.

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Any time I see “Bookshop” in the title, the book quickly becomes a must read for me and I feel confident it will be worthwhile. Filled with compassion for Thea I cheered her resilience and vicariously traveled to Scotland with her. The author’s delightfully detailed settings in the cottage, the town of Baldrochie and the bookshop made it easy to disappear into. Which is the next best thing to booking a flight to Scotland myself. I enjoyed this and am curious to read her other book, The Beginning of Everything, as well.

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I wanted to love this one - I mean hello, that cute cover and a bookstore in Scotland, count me in! I felt like if you read the synopsis you read the book - very one dimensional and not a lot to it!

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3.5 stars for this cute, re-birth story of a woman who heads to the Scottish coast to start over. This book would be great for readers who are trying to figure out where they're at in life and needing some reassurance that life all works out okay.

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Thanks NetGalley for the preview!

This book was a little cliche but it had charming characters and moments. The entire shed trip had me smiling and I wish they would have gone back again. I didn’t love the redundancy of the husband cheating and her being sad etc but it did lay the foundation for her new beginning.

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I loved the setting of this book. Scotland AND a book shop! What’s not to love.
However, I did not like Edward. I wanted to pop him upside the head on several occasions. But don’t worry…Thea takes nothing off of him. Need a cute, romance with a fabulous setting…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

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I really enjoyed this story! Thea, the lead and protagonist, has such a light and easy banter and sense of humor. I was immediately drawn to her. She's straight to the point and matter of fact and I found myself relating to her in so many ways. After she inherits a house in the middle of Scotland, she goes there and meets a whole host of characters that really bring this story to life. I highly recommend it!

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The Bookshop of Second Chances by Jackie Fraser is a delightful and uplifting tale that explores the transformative power of books, friendship, and new beginnings. With its charming setting, relatable characters, and a touch of romance, this novel is a perfect choice for book lovers seeking a heartwarming story that will leave a lasting impression.

The story follows Thea, a middle-aged woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits a bookshop in the quaint Scottish village of Wigtown. Faced with the opportunity for reinvention, Thea embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she navigates the challenges of running a business and connects with the eccentric residents of the village, each carrying their own stories and secrets.

Jackie Fraser's writing beautifully captures the cozy atmosphere of Wigtown, with its cobblestone streets, book-filled shelves, and the sense of community that permeates the town. The descriptions transport readers into the world of books, allowing them to experience the joy and solace that literature can bring. The author's love for books shines through, making The Bookshop of Second Chances a treat for bibliophiles.

Thea is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist who undergoes a profound transformation throughout the story. As she settles into her new role as a bookseller, she not only learns to navigate the intricacies of running a business but also discovers the healing power of literature and the connections it forges between people. Her journey of self-discovery is poignant and inspiring, as she confronts her past, confronts her fears, and embraces the possibilities of a brighter future.

The supporting characters in the book are richly drawn and add depth to the narrative. From the enigmatic shopkeeper Edward to the lively and endearing members of the local book club, each character brings their own unique quirks and stories to the forefront. The interactions between Thea and the villagers are heartwarming, emphasizing the importance of human connection and the transformative impact of genuine friendship.

The themes of loss, healing, and second chances are beautifully explored throughout the novel. Thea's journey is not without challenges, but through her encounters with the vibrant community of Wigtown, she learns to embrace the unexpected, let go of the past, and open herself up to new possibilities. The book highlights the profound impact that books can have on our lives, offering solace, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

The plot is well-paced, blending moments of introspection with light-hearted and humorous exchanges. While the romantic aspect of the story adds a touch of sweetness, it takes a backseat to the broader themes of personal growth and the transformative power of literature. The book also pays homage to the enchanting world of second-hand books and the magic that lies within their pages.

The Bookshop of Second Chances is a heartwarming and engaging read that celebrates the power of books to inspire, heal, and bring people together. Jackie Fraser's eloquent storytelling, endearing characters, and atmospheric setting make this novel a captivating journey of self-discovery and hope. If you're looking for a feel-good tale that celebrates the magic of books and the resilience of the human spirit, The Bookshop of Second Chances is a delightful choice that will leave you with a smile on your face.

Disclosure: I received an ARC of The Bookshop of Second Chances from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

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