Tuesday, April 3, 2012

The Book Lover-Maryann McFadden

The Book Lover


Maryann McFadden

Three Women Press, May 1 2012, $14.99

ISBN: 9780984867103



Ruth Hardaway has always loved books. Three decades ago she ran from tragedy to open up the Book Lover bookstore. Now her store is in trouble.



Since she was eleven years old, Lucinda Barrett now thirty-nine, dreamed of becoming a published author. However, her novel A Quiet Wanting has been rejected by the publishing houses. She self-publishes sending copies to bookstores including The Book Lover. Ruth and her employees love it while Lucy leaves David on a journey that ends at Ruth's house. The two women cut a deal; Ruth will sponsor the book and provide shelter in exchange Lucy will watch her new friend’s son, wheelchair bound Colin hurt in combat. With happiness within reach, fear leads to lies and disappointment.



The storyline starts slow as readers meet the key cast, but once that is done, the character driven novel turns into a wonderful relationship drama. Part of the fun is watching the book industry from the perspectives of an independent store owner and a rejected self-published writer. Other characters like the store’s staff, Colin, David and Ruth’s daughter Jenny enhance a fabulous aptly titled tale.



Harriet Klausner

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