The Midnight Bookshop only appears to people who need it, people who's lives are spiralling out of control.
People like Jo who can buy anything she wishes to but instead loves the thrill of stealing from shops. She has always felt unloved by her parents so in return she treats them with contempt and pushes boundaries.

Adelaide, who loves reading but is forbidden to do so by her abusive husband. She is not allowed to lose weight or wear nice clothes or go where she wants or he is physically abusive.

Finally there's Kye who is under the thumb of his elder drug dealing brother who expects him to work for him and not persue his own ambitions. Kye stays because his mother is sick and he can't leave her to his brothers mercy.

All three find a leaflet advertising the bookshop and decide to visit together.
The bookshop owner, May is a friendly enigmatic woman who seems to know their hearts desires. She tells them that the premise of the bookshop is the book chooses you, you do not choose the book. They are all in awe of what waits for them inside and the bookshop will become a big part of their lives until the day their lives are different.

Oh my goodness I loved this book. I felt like I was a child again and immersed my self into the magical world of Fay and her bookshop. I could imagine, through the author's words the forever moving cat and the dragon and all the other magical occurrences that went on around out three broken characters.

As well as the bookshop the stories of what the characters were going through kept me page turning wondering if things would gett better or worse for them.
I did of. Course have lots of questions at the end of the book. Where did the bookshop go? Did it spin through time with Fay inside? Who else did the bookshop help? And more questions that to ask here would give the story away.
I'm sure my answer is something Fay said in the book, "Don't question things too closely, as the answer isn't always available "
Another great read by Amanda James.

Nice easy cozy fantasy vibes. The dialogue felt a bit flat for me throughout, and a lot of inconsistencies which let the book down for me, little things like Adelaide ordering tea and cake, then taking a sip from her coffee, or Kye being referred to as Kyle (not by the other characters either). The odd one or two I can pass off as a typo or a lapse but they are throughout the book which leaves it feeling a bit amateur.
The story itself and the idea of a magical bookshop that appears to those who need the escape, and the book chooses you, is unique and full of potential.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It had all the elements to make a really good read: mystery, magic, romance, and friendship. The storyline was well-crafted, and I quickly got into it and found it hard to put down. I do love a story set around a book shop, and this one was very special, a book shop that appears to those who need it, along with a mysterious and enigmatic bookseller.

The three main characters, Jo, Adelaine and Kye, are all dealing with serious problems in their lives and don't know how to sort things out. They each find a flyer for The Midnight Bookshop and feel drawn to visit it, and the story begins.

I loved the magical elements in the story, the friendship that develops between the three and seeing their lives grow and improve because of the books. I found the ending a little less exciting, hence the four stars, but I loved the story and would highly recommend it.

Thank you Netgalley for this ARC

This book wasn’t at all what I expected, but it was entertaining enough to keep me reading until the end.

Three strangers—Adelaine, Jo, and Kay—find themselves drawn to a magical store called the Midnight Bookshop, run by the mysterious Fay. At this shop, it’s said that the book chooses the person.

Each of them is dealing with their own personal struggles, and through the stories they read and the friendships they form, they experience meaningful growth.

I really liked the concept of a magical bookshop, but the story didn’t quite hit the mark for me—it was missing a certain spark. That said, I genuinely enjoyed following everyone’s journey and seeing how they evolved. It was sweet and heartwarming.

Overall, it was an easy, cozy read about personal challenges and self-discovery.

This was a story that made you think about how books can bring people together. A shared interest in literature and wandering are bookshops. This was a lovely read and had me hoping they would get together eventually. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James is the most delightful novel that will fire up your imagination.
This is a tale about three people and their new-found love of reading. “It doesn’t matter how much you read… as long as you attempt it.” Books are the doorway to brave new worlds. They offer possibilities and show you a new way of living. The Midnight Bookshop “is built on the imagination, mystery and magic.” As the reader sinks between its’ pages, we ‘feel’ the power of the story.
The leading three characters are all floundering. Life has not been kind to any of them. They all face different challenges.
A twenty-one-year-old has everything that money can buy but money cannot buy love. “I didn’t want their money… I wanted their love.” Everyone desires to be loved.
In contrast an eighteen-year-old is living in poverty and declares, “I feel trapped.” Caught between an ailing mother and a drug dealing older brother, his life is going nowhere and he cannot see a way out.
And finally, we have a young woman who has been trapped in an abusive marriage for ten years. “He wanted her to feel unattractive, worthless… a woman with no confidence is easier to control.” Day upon day, her husband has put her down, either with his words or with his fists. “She felt she was a non-person.” She feels invisible.
A flyer for the Midnight Bookshop brings the three to its’ doors. Each one finally finds a place of refuge from the world. “It’s as if she’s come home. A sense of belonging.”
Books do not judge us. As the Midnight Bookshop opens its’ doors to the lost and the hurting, they find that they do not choose the books, the books choose them. Hurting, lonely lives begin to open up. There are new friendships and new possibilities ahead. “Hope is still with me, and right now it is stronger than fear.” Lives inter-twined support each other, helping to provide firm foundations as well as friendship.
The Midnight Bookshop is a positively delightful read. I never wanted it to end. It fired up imaginations as it gave the characters the courage to let go of their ‘little’ lives and to begin to really live.
The Midnight Bookshop was my first book by Amanda James and I want more, more, more!
I received a free copy. A favorable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

What if you could rewrite your life, as if it were a book? What if you had the power to choose the next chapters yourself?

The story of The Midnight Bookshop follows Jo, Adelaide, and Kye. These characters seem completely different, but each of them struggles with life in their own way. Their paths cross in a mysterious, magical bookshop that is only visible to those who know where to look.

"You don't choose the book. The book chooses you."

The bookshop is a character in itself. To understand the Midnight Bookstore, you have to let go of logical explanations and believe in imagination and magic. Books are more than ink and paper. Books can change lives and bring people together.

"Imagination can be surprising. Perhaps what’s in our head is as real as you or I.”

Although the story is intriguing and the atmosphere of the bookshop is enchanting, I struggled to connect with the characters. Their personal issues sometimes felt a bit simplistic or superficially explored, which made their development feel unconvincing.

For those who enjoy magical realism, mysterious bookshops, and the idea that imagination can change the world, this book is definitely worth reading.

3.5 stars

Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the e-ARC!

This had me hooked from the very first page. Each character has their own individual journey of redemption and hope. All tied to a love of books and the power they have to impact a person. At the heart of the story are characters dealing with pain and tragedy—grief, loneliness, and personal battles that feel all too real. But the Midnight Bookshop brings them all together and well... Just go read it.

The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James had a lot of potiential! The cover is beautiful and really draws in the eyes! I feel James has many wonderfully unique concepts and an intriguing storyline. However, the writing style is not for me. I found the pacing of the story slow at times and I felt as the reader we were being "told" instead of "shown" too often throughout the story.

I didn't connect or become invested in the main characters. I found Kye, Adelaide, and Jo an off-fit for each other. I feel that James did a good job with writing triple narration so that each character could tell their individual story.

Overall, The Midnight Bookshop is a light read especially for some of the real difficult struggles many of the characters faced. To me, the bookshop was the best part of the book. I enjoyed the magic and mystery surrounding the shop. I would have liked to explore more aspects of the bookshop and how it worked. I really like the idea of the book choosing its reader and how the books pertained to helping its reader figure out their own lives.

Thank you to One Chapter and Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to read an advanced copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

The Midnight Bookshop surprised me in the best possible way. I went into it expecting a light, easy read—the kind of book you can dip into with a coffee in hand—but what I got was so much more. It’s a story that quietly grows in depth and meaning, and before I knew it, I was completely immersed.

At the heart of it are three people—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—each stuck in their own struggles, unsure of how to move forward. When a mysterious flyer draws them to a hidden bookshop that only appears under moonlight, their lives begin to shift. The shop is run by the enigmatic Fay, a woman who seems to know exactly what each visitor needs—even if they don’t know it themselves. It’s not a place you find by chance. It finds you when you need it most.

There’s a lovely blend of fantasy and realism in this story, and while the magical elements ask you to suspend disbelief, it’s absolutely worth it. The themes of friendship, healing, and rediscovery run deep, and I loved watching the characters grow—not just individually, but together. Their connection becomes a lifeline, and their shared experiences at the bookshop begin to rewrite their lives.

One of the things that really resonated with me was the idea that books choose their readers—and that reading the right story at the right time can truly change the way we see ourselves and our circumstances. As someone who’s always found comfort in stories, I related to that deeply. There are some beautifully reflective moments, especially about how we bring our own experiences into every book we read. A quote I loved was: “You’re not the same person when you read a book again”— and how true that is.

There were a few small things that didn’t quite work for me—the pacing dipped in a couple of places, and I found some parts a bit repetitive. Also, while I adored the bookshop itself, I was left wanting to know just a bit more about how it all worked.

Still, that didn’t take away from the magic of the story. Amanda James has created a comforting, heartfelt read with a message that lingers: that change is possible, even when we feel stuck, and sometimes, all it takes is the right book at the right time—and the right people by your side.

If you’re someone who loves books about books, with a touch of mystery, magic, and emotional growth, I’d absolutely recommend this one. It’s one of those reads that gently stirs something in you, and reminds you why stories matter so much.

The cover definitely caught my attention! And, of course, I was intrigued by the bookstore/booklover angle. However, there was a bit too much telling vs. showing, and that kept pulling me out of the story. I never really clicked with the writing style, which was a bit awkward at times. Some of the characters weren't as distinct as I'd expected. While this was a quick read, it is, sadly, not one that will stick with me.

A truly wonderful read with great characters who found the bookshop and following their journey was fascinating. The bookshop owner was a great and colourful character. I loved the idea that a book chooses you and not the other way round. I found the ending a little sad but understood why it just had to be. A real page turner which was compelling from beginning to the end.

Jo, Adelaine, and Kye and are an impasse of sorts in their lives, having a hard time figuring out where their futures are going. They see an advertisement for The Midnight Bookshop, and decide to head to this shop. There they meet Fay, its keeper, and each receives a book tailored to their respective journeys, incorporating things like growth and understanding purpose.

I enjoyed this book for its magical elements; it has a cozy vibe to it, and gets the message across. I would have personally liked more explanation behind the bookshop itself, but perhaps the mystery was the whole purpose. I did enjoy the character of Fay the most, and I loved how Jo, Adelaine, and Kye were twined together through the bookshop.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK/One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Adelaide, Jo, and Kye's lives collide as they meet in bookstore.

This emotional and heartwarming story tell their stories and Oh my how I loved it.

It is a mystery with a magical theme and how books change lives and minds for the better. These unlikely friends have their stories told in such a gorgeous and creative prose that the reader cannot help but love this book..

I have to admit—I fell for the cover first 😄 But the synopsis drew me in too. It reminded me of the fantasy books I read as a child, the kind that transported me to magical worlds I could build in my imagination. I guess I’ve missed that feeling, especially amidst all the “adulting” lately 😅

The story follows three characters, each going through their own struggles. They are brought together by a mysterious flyer and find themselves in a peculiar bookshop run by Fay, its enigmatic "owner." As the book cover says, “they don't choose the books; the books choose them.”

It was a warm and magical story with the healing power of books and friendship. I really enjoyed how the characters’ lives began to shift little by little. There’s something comforting in the idea that the right story can guide you to where you need to be and it reminded me how powerful stories can be. What more could a book lover ask for? 😊

That said, I did have a few small issues. The pacing felt a bit slow at times, and some parts were repetitive. Also, the book reveals the endings of the three books the characters read. Even though they’re well-known books, not everyone wants to be spoiled like that! 😅 Lastly, I wish we had learned a bit more about the magical bookshop itself. I was left with some unanswered questions.

Still, The Midnight Bookshop was a charming and cozy read. If you love reading books about books, with a touch of magic and friendship, you might enjoy this one too!

3.5/5

Amanda James just gets better and better. I thought her previous book, The Garden of Memories, was wonderful but this one is superb.
Great characters in Jo, Kye and Adelaide, all with stories that weave together well, and a truly wonderful bookshop with Fay in charge. I read past lights out to finish it as I had to know how it all ended. With thanks for the e-ARC to read and review.

<b><i> You don't choose the book. The book chooses you.</b><i>

As is often the case with a three-star rating, I'm split in my opinions. This is a novel that will work for some readers and not for others. There's the sense that it is following a trend as of late where characters read recommended novels and gain perspective however, in the case of <i>The Midnight Bookshop</i> we see this done with magical realism thrown into the mix. I don't want to spoil anything so no details.

There are three main characters Jo, Adelaide, and Kye who meet at a local food bank and feel drawn to a flyer for The Midnight Bookshop. All three experience an urge to visit its location. It is virtually impossible to find during daylight hours, making its appearance noticeable at midnight. Our three protagonists have serious problems, and they sure could use a hand. Faye works in the whimsical bookshop and provides a gentle guidance, uplifting words, and hot chocolate as needed. The beautiful cover did justice to the mysterious magical bookshop.

The tone of the novel is lighter than the struggles these characters carried. The mismatch of energy felt like a glaring lack of authenticity. I'm a reader who can just go with a lot, but this had me giving side eye a few times. The worldbuilding and the magical system are both woefully underdeveloped. There were exciting and adventurous moments within these pages don't get me wrong, but I needed more connection. I appreciated the found family vibes, the fibromyalgia rep, and healing growth.

If you're looking for a bit of escapism this will likely be a solid choice. However, if you find niggles worrisome you may want to pass.

I'm including a list of novels below which are explored to varying degrees in the narrative. Be forewarned if you consider that a spoiler. The list may be helpful to those who haven't read these and would like to at some point without any prior knowledge going in or if you're a superfan of one of these popular reads and want to check out how the author incorporated a favorite.

⚠️Book List to Follow⚠️
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As is often the case with this kind of book there is discussion surrounding other novels. So be aware that this discusses some classic novels including: <i>The Great Gatsby</i>, <i>Oliver Twist</i>, <i>One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest</i>, and <i> Lord of the Rings</i>.

Thank you to One More Chapter|HarperCollins UK for providing an Advance Reading Copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Oh my goodness! If you love books you will love this story! Three very different people who are experiencing a crossroads in their lives stumble upon a mysterious bookstore. They meet the very mysterious and beautiful owner (who should be played by Eva Green in the movie). They each have a book “choose” them and basically have very late night book club meetings.

An enjoyable fantasy read with plenty of magic within. Three people, each with seemingly desperate lives come together and discover a bookshop which is hidden from most people's eyes. Set in Truro, Cornwall, Jo, Adelaide and Kye come together and not only find solutions to their problems through books, under the guidance of Fay the bookshop owner, and form a strong friendship group. Feelgood and heartwarming with some hope in dark times.

It had a lot of promise… magical bookshop.. journeys through books. This book didn’t quite work for me, it felt under done in the narrative , superficial characters. Thank you to the author. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.