Three people, each yearning for change, receive mysterious invitations to The Midnight Bookshop. This enchanting, seemingly timeless place draws Jo, Adelaide, and Kye together at just the right moment in their lives. Within its magical walls, they find not only one another but also the strength to confront what they've been avoiding for far too long. The books they encounter—perhaps chosen more by fate than by themselves—offer healing, hope, peace, and the courage to begin anew. A reminder that books truly are magical sanctuaries, offering comfort and transformation within their pages.

Imagine a bookshop that is not visible to everyone, but that manifests itself in the night for those who need some help. A shop where you enter and immediately feel at home. There is magic in the air. And you do not choose books yourself, but the books chooses you. You get exactly what you need.

In the novel The Midnight Bookshop we meet the middle-aged Adelaide who is stuck in a marriage with a domineering man. And we also get to know the young Jo, child of wealthy parents, but who receives no love from her mother, only criticism. Finally, there is Kye who is dragged into the criminal practices of his big brother. Three people who did not know each other until recently, but only manage to find the entrance to The Midnight Bookshop and there, through the magic of books, manage to give new direction to their lives.

What a beautiful story this is. The magic of the bookstore bursts from the pages and knows how to take you as a reader to a wonderful world. What is real and what is fantasy? It all remains a mystery, but the main characters grow. They learn to face their problems and become stronger, so that they can make good choices. The development of these characters is strong. They are real people and their emotions and thoughts are realistic and recognizable.

The story is a very pleasant read. Amanda James has a beautiful way of writing that picks you up as a reader and takes you to the magical world of books, and teaches you about the power of stories.

The midnight bookshop and its owner Fay Revil is a dream and a very nice one. A book that is captivating and heartwarming, with characters that you will love because you wish them the very best.

Strangers Jo, Adelaide and Kye are the least likely people to find themselves across the threshold of a bookshop. But as their midnight book club shows them that a single book can change everything, all three realise that their own stories can't be rewritten.

You have to suspend your beliefs whilst reading this book. It's a story of fantasy and realism. The Midnight Bookshop is not visable during the day, but at night, it appears to the people who need it most. This is a story that tells how books can change your life, Jo, Adelaide and Kye are all strangers who are each going through something in their lives.

Published 16th May 2025

I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUk #OneMoreChapter and the author #AmandaJames fpr my ARC of #TheMidnightBookshop in exchange for an honest review.

I'll start off by saying I absolutely loved this book, although it may not be to everyone's taste. Three disparate characters find a common bond in a magical bookshop and Fay, the mysterious owner. There is Jo, the spoilt, lonely rich kid, Adelaide, the abused wife and Kyle, being dragged down by his brother and unwell mother. Together they find the Midnight Bookshop and its magic slowly starts working on curing them, who wouldn't live to visit such a place, I certainly would. It is slow paced, but that, for me, is an essential part of the story as overcoming problems is never easy and it let me live in its wonderful world for longer. Any story that can combine Lothlorien from Lord of The Rings and Mevagissey, my favourite part of the world, will always be a winner for me. Give yourself a chance to lose yourself in this magical world, highly recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

4-Star Review: The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James

Amanda James’ The Midnight Bookshop is a heartwarming tale that blends magical realism with themes of friendship, healing, and the transformative power of literature. Set in a charming Cornish town, the story follows three strangers—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—each grappling with personal struggles. Their lives intertwine when they discover a mysterious bookshop that opens only at midnight, guided by the enigmatic Fay, who believes that “the book chooses you.” 

The novel shines in its portrayal of the characters’ emotional journeys and the cozy, magical atmosphere of the bookshop. James masterfully illustrates how stories can offer solace and inspire change, making readers reflect on their own lives. 

While the pacing is gentle and some plot developments are predictable, the overall narrative is uplifting and engaging. Fans of The Midnight Library and The Lost Bookshop will find this a delightful read that emphasizes the healing power of books and the importance of human connection. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️½ – A Whimsical Escape, Though a Bit Underexplored

The Midnight Bookshop is a charming and cozy read that offers a warm hug in book form. If you’re a fan of found family, small-town charm, and the kind of magical whimsy that makes a bookshop feel like a portal to another world, you’ll likely enjoy the atmosphere Amanda James creates here. This is very much a "comfort read"—quick, light-hearted, and wholesome, with a lovely message about the power of stories and the friendships they inspire.

The core themes shine—especially the celebration of how books can connect people and transform lives. There’s something genuinely heartwarming about the way this story centers community, kindness, and belonging.

That said, the book falls a bit short on the immersive front. While the premise of a magical library is enchanting, the magic often feels like a blanket explanation rather than something deeply woven into the worldbuilding. Key moments and developments sometimes arrive without much buildup or explanation, and I often found myself wishing for more context—both for the characters and the setting. The storytelling leans heavily on telling rather than showing, which made it harder to connect emotionally to the characters or feel fully grounded in the world.

Still, if you’re in the mood for a gentle, feel-good escape and don’t mind a story that prioritizes mood and message over depth and detail, The Midnight Bookshop is a sweet little read that may just leave you smiling.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this gifted copy <3

Dear The Midnight Bookshop,

You literally chose me, found me. You came to me by e-mail, in the form of an invitation from One More Chapter to download a digital review copy through Netgalley. I have to admit that you sounded way too contemporary for my taste and yet I decided to accept the invite.

I'm glad I did so. There are a lot of books written about the power of stories, of books. And yet, I don't think I've ever read a book like this. I love how the lives of the characters literally change for the better because of a book. Yes, there is a little magic involved, but mostly the books inspire the characters to be brave, to take a risk, to follow their hearts and dreams. I'm a little jealous. I could use a little help too. So, I'll keep an eye out for the folder.

Does that mean you were perfect? No, of course not. No one can be perfect and maybe we should stop expecting books to be. At times there was a little too much tell and not enough show. At times things happened a little fast. At times emotions didn't really come across. And yet, I'm not entirely sure if it matters. After all, you did change my life and I'm seriously contemplating writing each and every review from this day on like this.

I hope that you will find your way to a lot of readers. Readers like me, who could use a little inspiration when thinking about their life and how to change things. Readers unlike me, who don't even know yet that this book might change their life for the better. Or readers who just wanna enjoy a tale about three real people, with real problems, in a very real world, who meet each other and a slightly magical bookshop and get a chance to find happiness.

Thank you so much for choosing me. I can't wait to discover which book is gonna choose me next.

I wanted to love this book, but I just couldn't. It was just okay. The characters were well written, but I felt they could have had more depth. Too many things were wrapped up to quickly, too tidily.

This was a magical story! I loved it!
It was a very descriptive book. I so wanted to be in the bookshop with them. I’ve always thought it would be fun to spend the night in a big bookstore.
It’s an hard to put down book!

The Midnight Bookshop presents a charming premise: a magical bookshop that appears only at midnight, offering solace and transformation to those who find it. The story follows three strangers—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—each grappling with personal challenges:
Jo is a young woman from a privileged background, yet she feels isolated due to her emotionally distant parents. Her love for books leads her to the mysterious flyer that guides her to the bookshop.
Adelaide is trapped in an abusive marriage, struggling to find a way out and reclaim her sense of self.
Kye is a young man burdened with caring for his chronically ill mother while dealing with the negative influence of his drug-dealing brother.

Their paths converge at the enigmatic bookshop, where they meet Fay, the enigmatic owner who believes that “the book chooses the reader.” Through the books that find them, each character embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

While the novel’s concept is enchanting, I found the execution lacking in depth. The characters’ transformations felt somewhat rushed, and I wished for more nuanced development to fully connect with their journeys. Additionally, the magical elements, though intriguing, could have been more thoroughly explored to enhance the story’s impact.

That said, the book offers a heartwarming exploration of friendship, resilience, and the transformative power of literature. It’s a gentle read that will appeal to fans of magical realism and stories about personal growth.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One Last Chapter for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you so much to netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read a copy of this book for my honest opinion. I really enjoyed this book and its uniqueness and quirkiness. The Midnight bookshop seems to be mystical and magic and available for those in need of the use of its setting. There are definitely some dark and sensitive moments in the story, but they are outweighed by the love and happiness that friendships can bring. Definitely a book I would recommend trying for yourself.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James is a novel that blends magical realism with themes of healing and transformation through literature. The story follows three unlikely strangers—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—who discover a mysterious bookshop and form an unexpected bond through their shared love of books. The shop's proprietor, Fay, introduces them to books that seem to choose their readers, leading them on journeys of self-discovery.

The Midnight Bookshop features three main characters—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—who each find themselves drawn to the mysterious bookshop at a pivotal moment in their lives. Jo is struggling with personal challenges and searching for meaning. She is initially skeptical but soon discovers the bookshop’s magic. Adelaide is facing difficulties in her personal life, particularly in her relationship with Mark, who treats her poorly. She finds solace and strength through her friendship with Jo and Kye. Kye is also dealing with his own struggles, and through the bookshop, he begins to see new possibilities for his future. Fay plays a crucial role in guiding them as she introduces them to the books. Their unlikely friendship, formed through the midnight book club, helps them navigate their personal challenges and rewrite their own stories. The novel beautifully blends magical realism with themes of healing, transformation, and the power of literature. It explores friendship, personal struggles, and the magical power of books in changing lives.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was sorry when it ended. Such a good read and one I would highly recommend.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I absolutely loved this book.

Three different people, with different upbringing and lives find themselves together in a magical bookshop, the owner Fay who is somewhat of a mystery.

Jo, is from a family who has lots of money and is spoilt, Adelaide is in an abusive relationship and Kyle, who isn’t happy with his life as he has to do as his brother wants and is also worried about his mother who’s not well.

But, when they find the Midnight Bookshop, slowly their lives begin to change by its magic.

I loved slow pace of the story, as we see how coming to tbe bookshop the three characters begin to trust each other and let each other know about their lives.

I highly recommend this book.

The Midnight Bookshop is a magical tale with heart, weaving together the stories of three strangers—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—who stumble upon a mysterious bookstore that seems to know exactly what each of them needs. With a touch of whimsy and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of books, Amanda James creates a world where fiction becomes a mirror to the soul.

The narrative unfolds with emotional depth and gentle suspense, keeping readers invested as each character confronts their past and begins to rewrite their future. The pacing flows smoothly, and the blend of magical realism with heartfelt storytelling makes this an enchanting read.

Though the plot leans into the fantastical, it’s grounded by strong themes of community, healing, and self-discovery. The ending ties up beautifully, leaving you with the warm sense that stories—both the ones we read and the ones we live—can lead us home.

A must-read for fans of cozy, uplifting fiction with a magical twist.

I didn't enjoy this which was disappointing as the premise was so good. The tone did not work for me and I didn't find the characters likeable.

I've read The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James.

I got this book as an ARC thanks to Netgalley, One More Chapter and offcourse the author Amanda James, this for an honest review.

The story is about 3 persons: Johnson, Adelaide and Kye. 3 different people with each their own problems and worries. They are gathered by a flyer of the Midnight Bookshop, owned by Fay. Together they try to resolve their problems and help each other to heal.

It's a nice gentle read, but for my honest opinion not my cup of tea. It's a tad to slow and a bit too repetitive.

But I can understand that people like this kind of books. Especially just for a nice relaxing read.

For me it was a 3 - 3,5 star.

Another book where I was drawn in by the cover, followed shortly by a great synopsis. Magic bookshop, what more do we want?

✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧

Plot
Turns out what I want is a sound plot with good character development, and I felt that I didn't get this here.
First thing I need to get off my chest, which wasn't included in the blurb, is that this is set in Cornwall! Eek! I opened the first page and there is Truro and its manky cobbles. This immediately set my excitement levels to 100000000 - its not very often that books are set in my home county, and I loved this.
However, my excitement did not last. I liked the premise of the bookshop tying the three very different lives together, but it fell a bit flat for me. The characters personalities and background were such a key component on the entire plot, and despite them all being entirely realistic lives, especially in Cornwall, I found it really difficult to care about them.

Characters
The Rich - this FMC felt very one-dimensional, and I was initially put off by her parents nicknames, which felt childish and immature - although I suppose that was partly the intention for her. Other than being wildly unsatisfied with her nice life and terrible parents, she didn't really do....anything.

The Poor - this MMC probably felt the most fleshed out for me. The way his relationship with his mother and family were portrayed did feel more realistic and entirely depressing. I also enjoyed the way he engaged with the bookshop and his book.

The abused - I wanted to like this FMC, and while she was entirely stuck in her relationship for reasons that are well explained, there was something about her that made it difficult to care. Perhaps it was because she was so depressing.

The Good
This premise is wonderful and the majority of the book is well written.

The Bad
The pacing is very slow and the characters lack depth.

The Ugly
I'm not sure there's anything ugly.

The Wrap Up
This is another fine example of a great premise that didn't quite take off. Regardless of my love of Cornwall, these characters didn't do it for me.

Once again, thanks Harper Collins and One More Chapter for letting me get my paws on an ARC ahead of time.

Who doesn't love the idea of a magical bookshop? For me, all good books have a bit of magic in them. Even from the time I was a little girl, I would get lost in the world of my favorite books, and that was my favorite place to be. This book is about a bookshop that can only be found by those who really need it, and once inside, they find the book that chooses them, and get transported to that world. Lives are changed for the better, friendships forged, and three strangers - Jo, Adelaide and Kye - walk away not only as best friends, but with lives better than they ever imagined possible. This book is perfect for fans of Kate Storey, Karen Hawkins, and Evie Woods.

This was such a lovely read - the book chose me and I'm very glad it did!!

This combines a little bit of magic with mystery, as we meet 3 different people who are all looking for something in their life and a leaflet appears to them telling them of a new bookshop in the area - and it's only to be found at night!

Exploring each of their storylines was really intriguing as they are all facing different struggles personally so they're really finding life isn't an easy path so they're looking for some guidance. When they come together at the bookshop it allows them to connect with one another and you see that spark in them that they get from the books they read, that gives them new vigour and confidence to attack the problems in their lives in a different way - and with the support of one another.

The author gives you time with each character so you get a real feel for them emotionally, and through the books that they find themselves drawn to then it allows them to see life differently and I think that's how it is a lot of time for readers! Sometimes the books choose us and show us how things can be different with a change in mindset, or seeing something from a different perspective! Highly recommended!!

A warm hug of a book about friendship and books. Addy, Jo, and Kye are all struggling with something bad in their lives but Faye,who owns the bookshop sees something in all of them and how they might be able to help one another. And they do. This is told from multiple POVs, which adds to the story. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Yes there's a bit of magic and yes the problems are solved perhaps too easily but it's an enjoyable read.