This was such an enchanting, magical book. The combined stories of Addy, Kyle and Jo and how they came together and rewrote their stories kept me turning page after page to devour more and more of this book.

THANK YOU to Netgalley for the ARC! 💚📚

This was such a wonderful, magic-filled cozy read. I loved the variety in the three characters struggles, and how they all found ways to confront their issues and change through the books they read. I wish we learned more about Fay! She was such a fun, whimsical character. This book truly reminded me of the magic books hold, the connections they can help form, as well as how their impact can motivate others in their own lives. I've always felt it in my bones after every read, that a part of me was changed for the better. This book felt like a beautifully written love-letter to reading and the magic that books hold. I can truly say that this book chose me (if you know, you know!) I can't wait to get a physical copy to add to my bookshelf!

💚 Magic Bookshop
💚 Found Friendship/Family
💚 Family & Relationship Struggles
💚 Cozy Mystery Vibes

📚 Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
📚 Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
📚 Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
📚 World Building: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
📚 Spice (If Any): None
📚 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

🩹 TW/CW: Mentions of Domestic Abuse, Mentions of Parental Neglect/Conflict, Smoking & Drinking

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for this eCopy to review

There’s something undeniably comforting about a book that celebrates the magic of stories—and The Midnight Bookshop does just that. I picked it up expecting a cosy, whimsical read, and it delivered in the best way possible.

The novel follows three strangers—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—each carrying their own emotional baggage, who find themselves drawn to a mysterious bookshop that only seems to appear when it’s most needed. Through the midnight book club they form, they begin to heal, grow, and rewrite the narratives of their own lives.

What I loved most was the atmosphere. Amanda James creates a world that feels both grounded and enchanted, where books don’t just tell stories—they change lives. The magical realism is subtle but effective, and the bookshop itself feels like a character: warm, wise, and full of secrets.

This was a heartfelt, uplifting read that reminded me why I love books in the first place. If you’re in the mood for something gentle, hopeful, and just a little bit magical, The Midnight Bookshop is well worth a visit.

What a lovely, beautiful book! I enjoyed it so much, and the character development was excellent, as well as the writing.
The story was captivating, the characters realistic & memorable.
I enjoyed this story tremendously. And can’t wait to read her next one.

The Midnight Bookshop invites readers into a cozy, whimsical world where books quite literally change lives. The story follows three strangers. Jo, Adelaide, and Kye, each facing difficult circumstances, who are brought together by a mysterious bookshop that only appears at midnight. Guided by the enigmatic Fay, they begin to rewrite their lives, helped by the books that seem to choose them.

I got about 20% into the book before realizing I wasn’t truly connecting with the characters. While the atmosphere is warm and the idea of a secret bookshop that changes lives is lovely, I found myself feeling emotionally distant from the cast. Their struggles are certainly valid and relatable, but something about the way their stories were introduced didn’t quite pull me in. That said, I can see why many readers have enjoyed it. The concept, that a mysterious midnight bookshop appears for those in need and that books “choose” their readers, is both magical and comforting.

If you’re looking for a comforting escape and enjoy stories about second chances, found family, and the power of books, this might be a great fit for you.

This book started off strong and ended strong but I found some parts in the middle dragged a little too much for my liking. The characters were loveable and the plot was fun. The prologue was my favorite.

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollinsUK, and One More Chapter publishing for providing this e-book for review. All opinions expressed are honest and my own.

I was immediately drawn to the cover and title of this book, and after reading the synopsis, was excited to request and receive this ARC. The plot, theme, and concept for this story were great, but it lacked a bit in the story telling. I didn’t feel a great connection with or between the characters, and the writing style didn’t flow smoothly. Or maybe it was the transitions between the various POVs. This is my first Amanda James book, so I’m not sure if it is the writing or editing, but I just struggled to get through the story. There were so many details about how the magic worked that we don’t get, or were vague. A bit more world building would have been appreciated. The story felt like it was focused more on the concept, rather than the characters. I would be interested to learn what the author’s inspiration for this book was. I DNF’d about 55% in, and maybe it got better after that point. If you are looking for a cozy, rainy day read that isn’t too deep, you would probably enjoy this book very much. Unfortunately, I was just hoping for more. As I said before, the concept is great and the cover art was stunning. There was a lot of potential, it just lacked execution.

I gave it 🌟🌟🌟/5.

Favorite quote from the book: ”You don’t choose the book. The book chooses you.”

The wonderfully evocative cover and premise of the book drew me in, yet the execution made me DNF at about 35%.

The characters felt rather flat and the dialogues stilted. I kept hoping it would all change once they entered the magical Midnight Bookshop, which weirdly was open during the day and full of customers too, but it didn't change.

The Midnight Bookshop has a magical atmosphere and a heartwarming premise about the power of stories to change lives.
The setting is enchanting and the idea of a hidden bookshop that brings strangers together is lovely. However, the characters felt a bit predictable and the emotional arcs were too neatly wrapped up.
A sweet, comforting read, but it lacked the depth I was hoping for.

I really enjoyed reading this book, it was very heartfelt, emotional and magical. I think for myself I would truly want to experience the magic of The Midnight Bookshop if it was a real thing. The story was very touching, it mentioned about Adelaide being in an abusive relationship with her husband, Kye living with his brother and mother where his brother does illegal drug activities while his mum is sick and Jo being an absolute spoilt and ungrateful person, taking things for granted. Each character was living unhappy lives before they discovered The Midnight Bookshop and after its discovery, it helped them view their individual lives differently and rewrite their life story with the help of the ‘bookshop staff’ Fay. I loved seeing the development of each character as they learn to tackle some of the obstacles in their lives even though it’s a hard thing to do and who knew that with a slight nudge from something, it could help change your life.

It’s quite a slow start but it’s does pick up about 30% into the book. I also liked the different POVs of the characters because as the reader, we get to know what’s been happening in their lives which I think makes a stronger connection to the characters as you read along.

This has to be one of my all time favourites. It’s such a wonderful concept and so beautifully written. We all need a bookshop where we can go and find friends and books that choose us, depending on what we are going through. I would urge everyone to pick up this book and I guarantee you won’t be able to put it down!

The Midnight Bookshop is a cozy, magical read about second chances and the quiet power of books to bring people together. Jo, Adelaide, and Kye are strangers at first, but their midnight book club helps them rewrite their own stories. A little slow at times, but full of heart and hope.

The Midnight Bookshop is a heartwarming and magical store about books, imagination, friendship, and new beginnings. Jo, Kyle, and Adelaide—three very different individuals from diverse backgrounds—cross paths at a local community centre, where they come across a mysterious brochure for the Midnight Bookshop.

Curious but unable to find the shop during the day, Jo stumbles upon it one night and sneaks inside. Enchanted by what she finds, she convinces Kyle and Adelaide to join her. Guided by Fay, the enigmatic bookshop owner who insists that “the book chooses the reader,” the trio begins an unforgettable journey.

Told through alternating perspectives of the three main characters, the story offers a rich and layered narrative. As Jo, Kyle, and Adelaide delve deeper into the magic of the shop and the books within, they uncover hidden truths about themselves, learn to support one another, and begin to reshape their lives.

Blending fantasy, magical realism, and emotional depth, The Midnight Bookshop is a feel-good story that celebrates the transformative power of stories—and the connections they help us build.

Three people, each yearning for change, receive mysterious invitations to The Midnight Bookshop. This enchanting, seemingly timeless place draws Jo, Adelaide, and Kye together at just the right moment in their lives. Within its magical walls, they find not only one another but also the strength to confront what they've been avoiding for far too long. The books they encounter—perhaps chosen more by fate than by themselves—offer healing, hope, peace, and the courage to begin anew. A reminder that books truly are magical sanctuaries, offering comfort and transformation within their pages.

Imagine a bookshop that is not visible to everyone, but that manifests itself in the night for those who need some help. A shop where you enter and immediately feel at home. There is magic in the air. And you do not choose books yourself, but the books chooses you. You get exactly what you need.

In the novel The Midnight Bookshop we meet the middle-aged Adelaide who is stuck in a marriage with a domineering man. And we also get to know the young Jo, child of wealthy parents, but who receives no love from her mother, only criticism. Finally, there is Kye who is dragged into the criminal practices of his big brother. Three people who did not know each other until recently, but only manage to find the entrance to The Midnight Bookshop and there, through the magic of books, manage to give new direction to their lives.

What a beautiful story this is. The magic of the bookstore bursts from the pages and knows how to take you as a reader to a wonderful world. What is real and what is fantasy? It all remains a mystery, but the main characters grow. They learn to face their problems and become stronger, so that they can make good choices. The development of these characters is strong. They are real people and their emotions and thoughts are realistic and recognizable.

The story is a very pleasant read. Amanda James has a beautiful way of writing that picks you up as a reader and takes you to the magical world of books, and teaches you about the power of stories.

The midnight bookshop and its owner Fay Revil is a dream and a very nice one. A book that is captivating and heartwarming, with characters that you will love because you wish them the very best.

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't be rewritten.

You have to suspend your beliefs whilst reading this book. It's a story of fantasy and realism. The Midnight Bookshop is not visable during the day, but at night, it appears to the people who need it most. This is a story that tells how books can change your life, Jo, Adelaide and Kye are all strangers who are each going through something in their lives.

Published 16th May 2025

I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUk #OneMoreChapter and the author #AmandaJames fpr my ARC of #TheMidnightBookshop in exchange for an honest review.

I'll start off by saying I absolutely loved this book, although it may not be to everyone's taste. Three disparate characters find a common bond in a magical bookshop and Fay, the mysterious owner. There is Jo, the spoilt, lonely rich kid, Adelaide, the abused wife and Kyle, being dragged down by his brother and unwell mother. Together they find the Midnight Bookshop and its magic slowly starts working on curing them, who wouldn't live to visit such a place, I certainly would. It is slow paced, but that, for me, is an essential part of the story as overcoming problems is never easy and it let me live in its wonderful world for longer. Any story that can combine Lothlorien from Lord of The Rings and Mevagissey, my favourite part of the world, will always be a winner for me. Give yourself a chance to lose yourself in this magical world, highly recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

4-Star Review: The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James

Amanda James’ The Midnight Bookshop is a heartwarming tale that blends magical realism with themes of friendship, healing, and the transformative power of literature. Set in a charming Cornish town, the story follows three strangers—Jo, Adelaide, and Kye—each grappling with personal struggles. Their lives intertwine when they discover a mysterious bookshop that opens only at midnight, guided by the enigmatic Fay, who believes that “the book chooses you.” 

The novel shines in its portrayal of the characters’ emotional journeys and the cozy, magical atmosphere of the bookshop. James masterfully illustrates how stories can offer solace and inspire change, making readers reflect on their own lives. 

While the pacing is gentle and some plot developments are predictable, the overall narrative is uplifting and engaging. Fans of The Midnight Library and The Lost Bookshop will find this a delightful read that emphasizes the healing power of books and the importance of human connection. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️½ – A Whimsical Escape, Though a Bit Underexplored

The Midnight Bookshop is a charming and cozy read that offers a warm hug in book form. If you’re a fan of found family, small-town charm, and the kind of magical whimsy that makes a bookshop feel like a portal to another world, you’ll likely enjoy the atmosphere Amanda James creates here. This is very much a "comfort read"—quick, light-hearted, and wholesome, with a lovely message about the power of stories and the friendships they inspire.

The core themes shine—especially the celebration of how books can connect people and transform lives. There’s something genuinely heartwarming about the way this story centers community, kindness, and belonging.

That said, the book falls a bit short on the immersive front. While the premise of a magical library is enchanting, the magic often feels like a blanket explanation rather than something deeply woven into the worldbuilding. Key moments and developments sometimes arrive without much buildup or explanation, and I often found myself wishing for more context—both for the characters and the setting. The storytelling leans heavily on telling rather than showing, which made it harder to connect emotionally to the characters or feel fully grounded in the world.

Still, if you’re in the mood for a gentle, feel-good escape and don’t mind a story that prioritizes mood and message over depth and detail, The Midnight Bookshop is a sweet little read that may just leave you smiling.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this gifted copy <3

Dear The Midnight Bookshop,

You literally chose me, found me. You came to me by e-mail, in the form of an invitation from One More Chapter to download a digital review copy through Netgalley. I have to admit that you sounded way too contemporary for my taste and yet I decided to accept the invite.

I'm glad I did so. There are a lot of books written about the power of stories, of books. And yet, I don't think I've ever read a book like this. I love how the lives of the characters literally change for the better because of a book. Yes, there is a little magic involved, but mostly the books inspire the characters to be brave, to take a risk, to follow their hearts and dreams. I'm a little jealous. I could use a little help too. So, I'll keep an eye out for the folder.

Does that mean you were perfect? No, of course not. No one can be perfect and maybe we should stop expecting books to be. At times there was a little too much tell and not enough show. At times things happened a little fast. At times emotions didn't really come across. And yet, I'm not entirely sure if it matters. After all, you did change my life and I'm seriously contemplating writing each and every review from this day on like this.

I hope that you will find your way to a lot of readers. Readers like me, who could use a little inspiration when thinking about their life and how to change things. Readers unlike me, who don't even know yet that this book might change their life for the better. Or readers who just wanna enjoy a tale about three real people, with real problems, in a very real world, who meet each other and a slightly magical bookshop and get a chance to find happiness.

Thank you so much for choosing me. I can't wait to discover which book is gonna choose me next.