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The Midnight Bookshop

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The Midnight Bookshop

By: Amanda James
Narrated by: Tesni Kujore
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You don't choose the book. The book chooses you…

'A book I was sorry to finish.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'A timeless story that emphasizes the healing and transformative power of books.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Long ago, a bookshop was born – the beating heart of all those who find hope within the pages of a book. With the words penned upon the echo of old forests, new worlds are created.

It’s ready and waiting to welcome all those who know where to find it…

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 be rewritten.

Readers love The Midnight Bookshop…

'This was an emotional and heartfelt read and had me invested from the start.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'A thoroughly uplifting enjoyable read that will certainly leave you feeling better with the world. Amanda James always seems to write intriguing, sensitive books with that touch of magic and The Midnight Bookshop is no exception.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'To appreciate the book fully you have to leave any preconceived ideas at the first page and open up you mind to a magical world.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This is quite an intriguing and magical story of fantasy and realism [and] in many ways, is a complex novel about relationships and Amanda James successfully weaves magic with realism to create a potent tale in an unforgettable way.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'The book underscores the importance of community and self-reflection, especially in a time when many people feel isolated or overwhelmed.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This book had me rooting for all three of them and didn't disappoint.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'[Amanda James’] writing so beautifully captured all the emotions throughout the novel.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Those who enjoy [magical realism] are going to love the fairytale aspects of this charming, well-written book with its uplifting message and sweet romance.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

©2025 Amanda James (P)2025 HarperCollins Publishers
Friendship Genre Fiction Magical Realism Small Town & Rural
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Critic Reviews

PRAISE FOR AMANDA JAMES
‘A beautifully crafted novel that will stay with you…deserves ten massive gold stars, highly recommended. Very highly’ Anita Waller
'A beautiful story about new beginnings, the warmth of friendship, the healing and energising powers of nature, connecting with others…one I certainly will never forget!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A delight to read, be it curled up in a cosy corner in your own home or sat outside in your own garden on a sunny day!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A joyous read with no murders or violence and is a complete delight' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A simply lovely book that is full of heart' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'The descriptions of the flowers, their perfume and colour are so vivid I felt I had walked through Rose's garden myself. The characters in this book are a joy. They restore your faith in human nature…extra special' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A real feel-good read that reminds us to cherish memories, embrace new experiences, and find joy in the little thingsIt’s simply wonderful – there’s no other words really' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I can’t write a review to do it justice but read it…You will love it' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Funny, poignant, endearing characters, a good spattering of relatable everyday truths, a few unexpected plot twists…everything a good book should be!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
All stars
Most relevant
I hope there are a bunch more stories like this one, I’ll read them all!

Hearing the word “says” pronounced like that so many times was very distracting, otherwise a lovely narration too

Lovely story, I want more

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The Midnight Bookshop was a pleasant surprise and ended up being a genuinely enjoyable read. At its heart, it’s a feel good story about three people who are unhappy with where life has taken them and, with a little magical intervention, find the encouragement they need to start making positive changes. It's warm, hopeful, and easy to get invested in.

That said, there were a couple of things that held it back for me. The first was how quickly the three main characters seemed to become best friends. Their relationships developed so fast that it felt a little forced, and I never quite bought into how naturally it all happened. Secondly, some of the dialogue felt overly polished and scripted. At times it read less like real people having conversations and more like a guidebook on how to support someone through a difficult situation. It wasn't a constant issue, but when it happened, it pulled me out of the story.

I also found some of Adelaide's chapters difficult to read, not because they were poorly written, but because of the heavy subject matter they dealt with. In a way, that's a credit to the author's ability to make those struggles feel real.

Overall, despite a few flaws, I enjoyed my time with this book. It's an uplifting story with a touch of magic and a lot of heart. My rating: 3.2/5

An enjoyable cozy read

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I love reading and can pretty much read or listen to anything but this one was too slow to build (7 chapters) and probably better for a much younger audience... wingy

Very slow to build. too 'wingy' first me.

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