THE BOOKSHOP LADIES BY FAITH HOGAN

Just when I needed a book full of joy, I found this one. I’m sure it was deliberate on the author’s part that one of the main characters was called Joy, although initially this seemed something of a misnomer.

When Joy’s husband dies she travels to rural Ireland to deliver a painting he left to a girl called Robyn, someone she’d never heard of before the reading of the will, but suspects is either his former mistress or his illegitimate daughter. Along with the painting she intends to deliver a piece of her mind, but events overtake Joy and she ends up working in Robyn’s bookshop, helping her to turn its fortunes around.

This book has a huge heart, wonderful characters you care about instantly, and a rich feeling of community. I loved every minute of it and became completely lost in its world. A proper treat for any reader, which I wholeheartedly recommend.