Review of 'The Story Shop' by Christie Barlow
Review of 'The Story Shop' by Christie Barlow
Release date: June 30th, 2025
Publisher: One More Chapter
REVIEW
Oh my, what a gorgeous, mesmerising atmospheric story! This has to be my favourite romantic book shop-writer focused novel this year. It captivated my heart with its warm charm, relatable themes, enthralling main characters and exciting plot with lots of twists and turns and enticing drama! I don’t know where to start to praise The Story Shop as it is brilliant in all areas. I loved the previous two books of the series but for me this is the best one yet. It is easy to see this was a real labour of love for the author – with all that it shares about the writing realm. And it is bursting with passion, humour, suspense, secrets, mystery, magic and a fairy-tale romance. I was pinned to the pages and could not put it down—even to have a proper sleep. I took little dozing breaks instead so I could keep reading it throughout the night. I loved the two character leads, Amelia and Jack, who each share their point of view in the narrative. As for the antagonist, this wicked strong villain would put the worst enemy possible to shame! She is ice cold, calculating and clever as she sweeps across the pages with her daring acts and conniving plans with such force she could match the harrowing storms experienced on Puffin Island!
And speaking of storms, it is during one of the worst that our heroine, Amelia, meets her prince, Jack. He is blown into her bookstore one dark and stormy night when the lights go out and candles must be lit. He takes her by surprise for he is just like a character in one of her stories. Amelia was never one ‘to believe in love at first sight, but as she stared at the soaked stranger standing in her doorway, she found herself reconsidering.’ All the romance novels she read and loved just might have a point! She describes the stranger Jack as ‘intense and captivating.’ Is he for real? Amelia wonders. It’s as if her ideal man materialises and as the plot unfolds like blooming flower petals, she begins to experience the stuff of dreams. Just imagine having a character you adore step off the pages of your novel! And this man is intriguing on so many levels--full of mystery and surprises.
Jack was sent to Puffin Island as a writer on a mission—a mission he is not comfortable with. For he is a kind and caring person with a romantic heart yet is tasked with something so negative it makes him cringe. Will he fulfill what is asked of him? What is at stake if he does complete the assignment or if he doesn’t? We learn eventually the true motive of the person behind this task. In the meantime, while Jack gets to know Amelia, and comes up against a caring community and the stunning seascape of Puffin Island—a place that changes people, it brings the best out in him and helps him feel connected to something bigger. And just like all visitors who come here for a break, he quickly learns how special this island is. Being here has given him more than he could ever have imagined. Including courage and love.
Bookshop owner, puffin and tea-lover Amelia, is a delightful strong protagonist - I really enjoyed. Her many talents unfold as we get to know her. She has had a rough time with her father’s sudden and suspicious death and has been battling a wicked stepmother who has been trying to take away her inheritance. For this villain has not only tried to steal her birthright but has also damaged her close relationship with her father. How will she move forward now? As we go on this journey with Amelia, we see what she is made of. We also discover she is harbouring a secret that could change the course of events. There is so much at stake and then this new man enters her world, one who has kept his identity hidden from her. We learn why and how all that affects their relationship. Though she is not quite as naive as this stranger may think.
Besides a wonderful romance, this novel is filled with recognisable writer-agent, book publishing truths and all the encompassing scenarios. And secrets galore! Plus exploration of true friendships, community support, magical romantic escapades, self-discovery and finding your ‘home, soul-mate and a sense of belonging’ themes. But, of course, the journey to this perfect destination and fulfilling life is not a smooth one for there are bumps, detours and unexpected turns. Pitted against the good things are the bad encounters of betrayal, theft, misunderstanding, jealousy and greed to name a few. This story is full of shade where the dark is set against the light and the hidden is exposed. And thankfully there is a happy resolution where justice is served and everything is set right again. The balanced ending is beautiful and satisfying.
I cannot rave enough about The Story Shop as it filled my heart with inspiration and joy. I have not said too much about the story, so as not to spoil the surprises and delights for others, but I urge everyone to get your copy as soon as it is available. You will love this wish-filled, dream-soaked, heart blazing story as much as I did. A book about books, a special bookstore, the dramas of writers and the crazy publishing realms that surround them, and the magic of certain locations like Puffin Island that demonstrate community spirit. If I could give this more than 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I would! Well done, to Christie Barlow for writing such a stunning romantic, mystery masterpiece!
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for the ARC.
