I think this is probably a story that I would enjoy more via reading the actual words vs an audiobook. I was very interested in the plot and story itself but the audiobook just kind of put me to sleep.

DNF at 53%. There isn’t anything wrong with this book, I am just not finding myself wanting to pick it up. I was hoping the mystery would play a bigger role, but again, I am just not finding myself wanting to read it any longer. Thank you NetGalley & Harlequin Audio for the ALC!

3.5⭐️

Thank you to Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for the audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review!

The Night Library on the outskirts of Tokyo is only open from seven o'clock to midnight. It exclusively stores books by deceased authors, and none of them can be checked out -- instead, they're put on public display to be revered and celebrated by the library's visitors, akin to a book museum.

Otoha Higuchi, the newest employee, has been recruited to work at the library by the mysterious anonymous owner. Night after night, Otoha bonds with her colleagues over meals in the library café, each of which is inspired by the literature on the shelves. When strange occurrences start happening around the library that may bring the threat of closure, it forces Otoha and the library staff to rethink their entire relationship with work and what they really want in life.

...

This was a story made for book lovers. The story itself is a simple story of a girl working at the Night Library and the day-to-day situations and events that would arise.

The cast of characters is both likable and complex, each with their own nuance and intricate backgrounds. I was left wanting more depth to some of the characters by the end. However, I loved this story made for book lovers. It kind of read like a slice-of-life anime, and I could see this as an adaptation! It also kind of gave me those cozy feelings of playing the tiny bookshop game, but in real life.

This book is gentle, lulling; nothing really major happens. It’s a very low-stress book, so just the right thing if that is just what you need.