The Story Collector

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Pub Date 29 Feb 2024 | Archive Date Not set

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Description

THREE LOST SOULS.
A LONG-BURIED SECRET.
THE TRUTH THAT COULD SET THEM FREE...

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London, 1915: Tarot reader Katerina is trying to hold her life together amid the wartime chaos. When she opens a bakery that offers divination alongside sweet treats, she is hailed as a beacon of hope. But Katerina is hiding a dark truth that could cost her everything.

Germany, 1918: A mute British soldier is taken to a prisoner of war camp where he meets Miriam, a researcher. She is drawn to his gentle manner and secretly vows to help him. But soon she will have to make an impossible choice: will she save the one she loves, or herself?

Cornwall, Present Day: Recently widowed Edie is astonished to discover a mysterious box hidden in the wall of her newly renovated cottage. As Edie starts to investigate, she uncovers a secret that has lain hidden for over a century...

A long-held secret ties the tales of three women, from the cobbled streets of war-time London to an isolated German WWI camp, and the sea-swept cliffs of Cornwall. Beautifully told, moving and unforgettable.

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PRAISE FOR IRIS COSTELLO

'A rich and tender story of fortitude, family and friendship' Ruth Hogan, The Keeper of Lost Things

'The perfect winter read' Amanda Prowse, To Love and Be Loved

'Simply spellbinding, very addictive, and so beautifully written' Sophie Irwin, A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting

'Richly atmospheric, evocative and moving - a triumph of storytelling' Abbie Greaves, The Ends of the Earth

'Full of intrigue and loss, this beautifully written gothic tale makes for a spellbinding read' Rhiannon Ward, The Shadowing

'An intriguing story which skilfully entwines the past and present' Heidi Swain, A Christmas Celebration

'Absorbing, moving and multi-layered... A book to curl up with' Emma Curtis, Invite Me In

'Beautifully written with a story that draws you in' Jane Corry, We All Have Our Secrets

THREE LOST SOULS.
A LONG-BURIED SECRET.
THE TRUTH THAT COULD SET THEM FREE...

-----

London, 1915: Tarot reader Katerina is trying to hold her life together amid the wartime chaos. When she opens a bakery...


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9780241999110
PRICE £8.99 (GBP)
PAGES 336

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Average rating from 60 members


Featured Reviews

Another thoroughly enjoyable read from Iris Costello.

Without revealing too much, this is a gripping mystery involving the intertwined lived of three different women. Set against various backdrops that are well-depicted, each chapter added another layer to the story.

Would definitely recommend this books and the author in general.

Thanks: Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

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I thoroughly enjoyed "The Story Collector" by Iris Costello and imagine many people curled up, reading this in the winter months. At first, it isn't obvious how the three stories and characters are connected but as the three stories progress there are clues and it is all wrapped up neatly at the end. A big warm hug for a cold winter night.

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This story is still on my mind days after finishing. A fascinating story, expertly intertwined storylines that keep you guessing just how they’ll come together, and a depth of character for each of those storylines. I would highly recommend this book!

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This was a beautiful book.

I was expecting straightforward historical fiction, but some of this was set in the present day, and initially it felt like dark fantasy or magical realism. There were several narratives, but I felt a connection with each character. It took me a few hours to finish this, but I felt very absorbed by it, it was a story that I felt able to escape into.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.

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A beautiful tale set across 2 timelines, fabulously written with lots of interesting characters, the way the stories are interwoven is enchanting and heartwarming.
The charm of Edie, the spiritual Kitty and the great world war provides a unique back drop to this novel.

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What a great read.

What makes "The Story Collector" special is how it weaves individual stories together. The characters are relatable, and their experiences are easy to connect with. Costello's writing paints a vivid picture of the settings and emotions in the story, making it easy to get lost in the narrative.

In summary, "The Story Collector" is an enjoyable and thought-provoking novel. If you like stories that bring characters and their experiences to life, this book is worth a read. It reminds us of the significance of stories in our lives and the connections they can create.

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Another fantastic, multi-faceted novel by Iris Costello. A fantastic novel exploring the intertwining lives of the three main characters in differing timelines.

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This book is truly magical! It features an exceptional plot, unexpected twists, and poignant moments. I didn’t feel that link between Kitty, Miriam and Edie was apparent until the conclusion, which ensured I remained captivated throughout. A delightful and contemplative novel - highly recommended.

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Spellbinding, addictive, beautifully written.
Richly atmospheric, evocative and moving - a triumph of storytelling.

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Tarot cards and magic aren’t really my thing, but I gave this story a chance and was glad that I did. It’s beautifully written and the stories of three very different women weave themselves together like a complicated crochet pattern so that, by the end, you are left with a wonderful finished masterpiece. Excellent!

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Having enjoyed Rochester Place I was looking forward to this book. And it didn't disappoint. Three different lives, three different times (just), and a mystery that left a bit of angst at the end of quite a few chapters. I enjoyed it very much and thought that the ending was perfect. With thanks to all concerned for an e_ARC to read and review.

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Set across two different timelines this is a really beautiful story. I’ll read this again as I just know it’s a book I’ll go back to again and again.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC in return for my honest and unbiased opinion.

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I was so glad I was sent a copy of this. Iris Costello is truly magical. She writes about three stories, which don't seem to have any connection to each other (although you know they do) until right at the end, when everything is revealed.
After her previous work, I didn't think she could deliver another story like this, but she did. Absolutely stunning.
I got more attached to Kitty, Miriam and Otto rather than to Edie, but I will keep them and their stories in my heart for a very long time.

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Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this beautiful novel early ⭐️
Pulled on the heart strings and kept me reading long into the early hours. I adore tales that span different eras & timelines and this one didn’t disappoint

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Loved this so much. The multiple POVs of Miriam and Kitty during the war and present day Edie worked really well, and I found myself invested in each of the characters. It's such a poignant story but also a very heartwarming read. Huge thank you to NetGalley and Penguin for my eARC of this one - I'm definitely going to have to get my hands on a physical copy in February!

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Oh what a lovely book! 3 different storylines in 3 different timelines which dovetail together at the end to answer a mystery that builds through the book. It’s a story that takes you on a journey through time, through wartime hardships and modern day loss, it really pulls at the heart however has a sweet ending.

Many thanks to the publishers, author and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review

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This story spanning over 10 decades is really well done and the descriptive writing brings every scene to life.
Very enjoyable read.

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A lovely book well presented, ideal for a Winter read.

A tale of three different people throughout the ages, but all interconnected. At first it does not seem to be any connection but as the book develops the link is there for you to discover.

Tissues at the ready as it bring home the cruel times that war brings to people.

A truly charming book with lasting memories.

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book.

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