"Michelle doesn’t believe in fairy tales. She’s a hard-headed businesswoman, making a fresh start in a new town. And when she decides to take over a neglected book shop, she knows the perfect manager.
For book-loving Anna, it’s a dream come true—and not just because it gives her an escape from her three demanding step-children and their adorable but hyperactive Dalmatian. Although she’s been thinking that her own fairytale ending hasn’t really turned out the way she hoped, Anna’s passion for the classics is transforming the shop. The customers, and even Michelle, are falling under the spell of the magical stories of romance, adventure, and lost dogs.
But when secrets from her past threaten Michelle’s new beginnings, and trouble strikes at the heart of Anna’s household, can the wisdom and courage of the stories in the bookshop help the two friends—and those they love—find their happy ever after?"
RATING 5 STARS
I really didn't know what to expect when I picked this book up at the library last week, having never read a Lucy Dillon novel. I was nothing short of completely satisfied. Mrs. Dillon has a way of telling a story in a narration that made me forget everything around me and lose track of time completely. By the title, I expected somewhat of a simple, easy, cliche read, and relished at the thought of perhaps not having to be so emotional at a book since recently the only thing I've done is pick up books that make me want to bawl my eyes out. That recent track record was not broken, however. I felt like such a sap crying my eyes out at this simple "fairy tale for adults" as the cover put it. Actually, I think I can picture this book being made into a Hallmark movie. Yeah. I know.
Dillon has absolutely brilliant character development, and I loved Anna - she was my ultimate favorite. The sweet laid off librarian who cries at children's stories, has a dog named Pongo, and three bratty stepdaughters at home along with a husband who isn't as on track as she'd hoped he'd be about having a child of their own. And then there is Michele - the practical sales woman who won't let anyone into her heart and is running from an emotionally abusive husband who has tricked her entire family into thinking that he prince charming, and
*SPOILER ALERT HERE*
harboring the emotional secret of being sexually assaulted as a teenager.
How's that for a fairy tale?
Seriously though, this book is one of my new favorites. I thought it was brilliant and sweet and heartfelt - and like I said, the characters turned me into a total blubbering sap. But in my defense - when I picked up the book I wasn't expecting anything emotional.
Can't wait to see what else Lucy Dillon has to offer!