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The Little Provence Book Shop
Preorder the BRAND NEW getaway novel from the BESTSELLING author of The Bordeaux Book Club, Gillian Harvey Everyone’s story has some magic. You just have to turn the page to find it… As the sun rises over the little Provence village where single mother Adeline has escaped with her little girl Lily, she breathes deeply. This is their new beginning. Here, she can forget the lies her family told her. Here, she can start her story again.
Later she opens the door to the town’s tiny bookstore, where she is to work, ready to meet the mysterious owner Monique for the first time.
She expected an ordinary bookshop. But this bookstore feels somehow different… magical. Breathing in the smell of books, she feels a jolt of something. It feels like a new chapter beginning.
As she gets to know the villagers – including the handsome Andre and friendly Michel – she starts to believe in the magic of this new start. But can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she’s looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?
A totally gorgeous, escapist, romantic novel – set in rural Provence – by the bestselling author of A Year at the French Farmhouse and The Bordeaux Bookclub.
Readers love Gillian ‘An uplifting, heartwarming, escapist novel to be read with a DO NOT DISTURB sign, because once you start that very first page, you are not going to want to put it down.’ Kim Nash, author
‘Irresistible! Sparkles with warmth, wit and compassion. A treat from start to finish!’ Nicola Gill, author
‘Wonderfully warm and enchanting… With empathy, insight, and humour… Will delight readers seeking their own escape.’ Natalie Jenner, author
‘Just wonderful!… In one of the chapters, I cried my way through the whole of it… just so moving and meaningful… [But] this book is also funny and had me giggling and smiling at certain things that happen… This has been the perfect book, in the perfect setting, with perfect characters.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The entertainment, the friendships, the drama, the laughs, a book that transports you to the South of France = A Great Summer Read!… Fun, entertaining and enjoyable… I’m all in!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A joy… Honestly, I loved this story so much. It is filled with hope, and there are emotional moments as well.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Such a great, escapist read!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Gillian Harvey’s books are the ultimate treat… Funny, witty, emotional, endearing… Her books are everything!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Later she opens the door to the town’s tiny bookstore, where she is to work, ready to meet the mysterious owner Monique for the first time.
She expected an ordinary bookshop. But this bookstore feels somehow different… magical. Breathing in the smell of books, she feels a jolt of something. It feels like a new chapter beginning.
As she gets to know the villagers – including the handsome Andre and friendly Michel – she starts to believe in the magic of this new start. But can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she’s looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?
A totally gorgeous, escapist, romantic novel – set in rural Provence – by the bestselling author of A Year at the French Farmhouse and The Bordeaux Bookclub.
Readers love Gillian ‘An uplifting, heartwarming, escapist novel to be read with a DO NOT DISTURB sign, because once you start that very first page, you are not going to want to put it down.’ Kim Nash, author
‘Irresistible! Sparkles with warmth, wit and compassion. A treat from start to finish!’ Nicola Gill, author
‘Wonderfully warm and enchanting… With empathy, insight, and humour… Will delight readers seeking their own escape.’ Natalie Jenner, author
‘Just wonderful!… In one of the chapters, I cried my way through the whole of it… just so moving and meaningful… [But] this book is also funny and had me giggling and smiling at certain things that happen… This has been the perfect book, in the perfect setting, with perfect characters.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The entertainment, the friendships, the drama, the laughs, a book that transports you to the South of France = A Great Summer Read!… Fun, entertaining and enjoyable… I’m all in!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A joy… Honestly, I loved this story so much. It is filled with hope, and there are emotional moments as well.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Such a great, escapist read!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Gillian Harvey’s books are the ultimate treat… Funny, witty, emotional, endearing… Her books are everything!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 9, 2024
1003 people are currently reading
1314 people want to read
About the author
Gillian Harvey
13 books315 followersI'm a British author and freelance writer, currently living in Norfolk, England with my husband and 5 children. I write contemporary, uplifting and emotive fiction, often set in France where I lived for 14 years.
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November 14, 2024
EXCERPT: Growing up in Paris, she'd never imagined that small town life could be as rich; Maman, with her scarlet lips and tailored clothing had scorned what she called 'the dying countryside', and preferred to be where there was life.
Only there was a difference between amongst life and living. In Paris they had been surrounded by people but ad remained lonely. Here, she had been able to make a difference; to use her talent to change lives - and what else was it for? She longed to tell her mother she was wrong.
But she had not spoken to Maman for more than thirty years; perhaps she was already dead? The flash of pain was soon subdued by the memory of what her mother had done to her. Some things could be forgiven; others left deep wounds that never quite closed.
ABOUT 'THE LITTLE PROVENCE BOOK SHOP': Everyone’s story has some magic. You just have to turn the page to find it… As the sun rises over the little Provence village where single mother Adeline has escaped with her little girl Lily, she breathes deeply. This is their new beginning. Here, she can forget the lies her family told her. Here, she can start her story again.
Later she opens the door to the town’s tiny bookstore, where she is to work, ready to meet the mysterious owner Monique for the first time.
She expected an ordinary bookshop. But this bookstore feels somehow different… magical. Breathing in the smell of books, she feels a jolt of something. It feels like a new chapter beginning.
As she gets to know the villagers – including the handsome Andre and friendly Michel – she starts to believe in the magic of this new start. But can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she’s looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?
MY THOUGHTS: Having recently read and loved The Bordeaux Book Club by Gillian Harvey, I was excited to read The Little Provence Book Shop. It is a charming read that incorporates a little drama and romance with a little magic.
I loved Monique, the owner of the book shop. She has an ability to 'read people' and to match them with the book they need. And she feels an instant connection with Adeline who has escaped to France to lick her wounds.
I found Adeline a little hard to relate to although I admired her pluck in upping roots and moving to France for some breathing space.
The Focus of The Little Provence Book Shop is on adoption and it is a thread that is woven throughout the storyline. I thought I knew where Gillian Harvey was going with this, but I wasn't quite right. She threw a curveball in there.
I could have done without the romance thread. It just seemed to complicate matters. I would have preferred to see a friendship that deepened over the course of the book. With the romance and the dramas surrounding the adoption thread, it all seemed just a little too much.
Overall, I enjoyed this read but not as much as The Bordeaux Book Club which seemed to have a little more depth to it.
⭐⭐⭐.6
#TheLittleProvenceBookShop #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: I'm a British author and freelance writer, currently living in France with my husband and 5 children. I write contemporary, uplifting and emotive fiction, often set in France.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey was published October 9, 2024.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Only there was a difference between amongst life and living. In Paris they had been surrounded by people but ad remained lonely. Here, she had been able to make a difference; to use her talent to change lives - and what else was it for? She longed to tell her mother she was wrong.
But she had not spoken to Maman for more than thirty years; perhaps she was already dead? The flash of pain was soon subdued by the memory of what her mother had done to her. Some things could be forgiven; others left deep wounds that never quite closed.
ABOUT 'THE LITTLE PROVENCE BOOK SHOP': Everyone’s story has some magic. You just have to turn the page to find it… As the sun rises over the little Provence village where single mother Adeline has escaped with her little girl Lily, she breathes deeply. This is their new beginning. Here, she can forget the lies her family told her. Here, she can start her story again.
Later she opens the door to the town’s tiny bookstore, where she is to work, ready to meet the mysterious owner Monique for the first time.
She expected an ordinary bookshop. But this bookstore feels somehow different… magical. Breathing in the smell of books, she feels a jolt of something. It feels like a new chapter beginning.
As she gets to know the villagers – including the handsome Andre and friendly Michel – she starts to believe in the magic of this new start. But can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she’s looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?
MY THOUGHTS: Having recently read and loved The Bordeaux Book Club by Gillian Harvey, I was excited to read The Little Provence Book Shop. It is a charming read that incorporates a little drama and romance with a little magic.
I loved Monique, the owner of the book shop. She has an ability to 'read people' and to match them with the book they need. And she feels an instant connection with Adeline who has escaped to France to lick her wounds.
I found Adeline a little hard to relate to although I admired her pluck in upping roots and moving to France for some breathing space.
The Focus of The Little Provence Book Shop is on adoption and it is a thread that is woven throughout the storyline. I thought I knew where Gillian Harvey was going with this, but I wasn't quite right. She threw a curveball in there.
I could have done without the romance thread. It just seemed to complicate matters. I would have preferred to see a friendship that deepened over the course of the book. With the romance and the dramas surrounding the adoption thread, it all seemed just a little too much.
Overall, I enjoyed this read but not as much as The Bordeaux Book Club which seemed to have a little more depth to it.
⭐⭐⭐.6
#TheLittleProvenceBookShop #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: I'm a British author and freelance writer, currently living in France with my husband and 5 children. I write contemporary, uplifting and emotive fiction, often set in France.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey was published October 9, 2024.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
January 17, 2025
3.5★
The cover of this book is what drew me to it, and I’m pleased to say I enjoyed it. The one thing that stood out was some of the descriptions throughout the story were so good. Some of the characters I liked and some I found it hard to connect to. The plot was good and it’s a book that would be ideal to read on the holidays. It’s an easy and quick read that doesn’t require too much thought. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for their digital copy to read and review. Recommended.
The cover of this book is what drew me to it, and I’m pleased to say I enjoyed it. The one thing that stood out was some of the descriptions throughout the story were so good. Some of the characters I liked and some I found it hard to connect to. The plot was good and it’s a book that would be ideal to read on the holidays. It’s an easy and quick read that doesn’t require too much thought. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for their digital copy to read and review. Recommended.
September 6, 2024
A lovely story set in France in a charming village with a Bookshop run by a women with witchy powers. A throughly enjoyed this story and loved reading about all the characters. It had a happy ending which was a bonus. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
September 14, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Little Provence Book Shop, by Gillian Harvey, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Adeline goes to France with her daughter Lili, after she finds out she is adopted, working at a magical bookstore in Provence, she learns so much. The book was a bit predictable but over all was a good read, I liked Adeline and her growth through out the book.
September 18, 2024
I was really excited about the idea of *The Little Provence Book Shop*. The setting in a small, charming French village with a cozy bookshop sounded perfect, and I was eager to dive into Adeline’s journey. But while the story had some sweet moments, it didn’t completely work for me.
The main storyline about adoption and searching for family had a lot of potential, and I was curious to see where it would lead. But I couldn’t quite connect with the characters the way I wanted to. Adeline and Monique’s interactions felt a bit stiff, and some of the dialogue just didn’t seem natural. Monique’s focus on fate, crystals, and healing people through books was an interesting touch, but it felt overdone after a while. I love the idea that the right book can help someone through tough times.
The romantic plot felt pretty flat as well. The French guys in the story were barely sketched out, and the romance didn’t add much depth.
What I did enjoy were the descriptions of Provence and the bookshop itself. I could almost picture the cobblestone streets and smell the old books. I also appreciated the reflections on the power of books to connect people, which really resonated with me. But overall, the pacing was slow, and some parts of the story dragged, especially when Adeline’s inner monologues took over.
In the end, *The Little Provence Book Shop* was a light and easy read, perfect for a lazy afternoon. I just wish it had a little more depth in the characters and a bit more spark in the romance. Still, it had some charming moments, and if you're looking for a book that blends a beautiful setting with themes of family and fate, it might just be for you.
November 25, 2024
I just love the cover, the title and the plot!
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the ARC.
I love the idea of this book and hence read the book with the greatest excitement. However, the writing, the character development or their interactions including their dialogues do not work for me.
I really wanted to LOVE LIVE LET the book!
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the ARC.
I love the idea of this book and hence read the book with the greatest excitement. However, the writing, the character development or their interactions including their dialogues do not work for me.
I really wanted to LOVE LIVE LET the book!
November 29, 2024
heart-warming audio-read with a cozy cute happy ending
August 12, 2025
I enjoy Gillian Harvey's escapist books, set in France but unfortunately this one fell a little flat for me. Adeline as moved to Provence after discovering, after the death of her mother that she she was adopted. Finding a job in a bookshop where the owner believes in charms, crystals and intuition, Adeline discovers more about her past than she betted on.
The description is nice and the writing flows easily but the characters feel a little underdeveloped, the sideline romance feels exactly that...a little too sideline and the ending is pretty predictable. The 'magic' of Monique also doesn't sit quite right, I think because there's so much drag around it from Adeline in the book.
Not my favourite Gillian Harvey, but an ok read.
The description is nice and the writing flows easily but the characters feel a little underdeveloped, the sideline romance feels exactly that...a little too sideline and the ending is pretty predictable. The 'magic' of Monique also doesn't sit quite right, I think because there's so much drag around it from Adeline in the book.
Not my favourite Gillian Harvey, but an ok read.
October 10, 2024
Gillian really knows how to bring France to life, it reminded me of family holidays exploring quaint villages 🇫🇷
The story follows Adeline and her little girl Lili as they embark on a new life, she hoping she can forget the lies her family have told her. Her new job is in the towns bookstore, its owner Monique is certainly mysterious but soon takes both Adeline and Lili under her wing.
It was a delightfully easy book to get lost in, it held plenty of mystery over both Adeline and Monique’s past as well as potential love interests.
Thank you NetGalley, Gillian Harvey and Boldwood for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.
The story follows Adeline and her little girl Lili as they embark on a new life, she hoping she can forget the lies her family have told her. Her new job is in the towns bookstore, its owner Monique is certainly mysterious but soon takes both Adeline and Lili under her wing.
It was a delightfully easy book to get lost in, it held plenty of mystery over both Adeline and Monique’s past as well as potential love interests.
Thank you NetGalley, Gillian Harvey and Boldwood for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.
December 31, 2025
3.5 rounded up
September 6, 2024
This was such a cute cozy book for end of the summer. If you love books and little places you will enjoy reading. Adeline arrives in a little village in Provence with her daughter Lily to start a new life and a new job at a small bookshop with the mysterious owner Monique. She becomes a part of the village and its people and begins to find what she’s been looking for.
l loved the introduction to small town France through the eyes of both Monique and Adeline.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this title.
l loved the introduction to small town France through the eyes of both Monique and Adeline.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this title.
September 7, 2024
book that reads well. Story is quite predictable but that is absolutely not a problem with this type of book. characters are nicely portrayed and developed although they could be further developed.
October 13, 2024
In this story, we are introduced to Adeline and her daughter Lili, who have moved from England to Provence, France, after Adeline uncovers new information about herself that has been hidden her entire life. After seeing an ad for help wanted in a book shop in Provence, a place that is related to her family, she packs up and moves. There, she meets Monique, the owner of the book shop, and several other characters in the small town.
This book was a cute and heartwarming story about finding where you belong and finding lost family. It did not take me long to know exactly where this book was going and how the story would turn out, but it was still heartwarming to read it as it played out. I do wish that we got more details on the meetings and the uncovering of information because it was such a huge part of the story line and there was a lot of build up to these moments, but it was still good nonetheless. I loved the small town feel of this book, everyone knows everyone, and the idea of people coming in to the book shop to get a book that they need at that specific time was also a nice touch.
This book was a cute and heartwarming story about finding where you belong and finding lost family. It did not take me long to know exactly where this book was going and how the story would turn out, but it was still heartwarming to read it as it played out. I do wish that we got more details on the meetings and the uncovering of information because it was such a huge part of the story line and there was a lot of build up to these moments, but it was still good nonetheless. I loved the small town feel of this book, everyone knows everyone, and the idea of people coming in to the book shop to get a book that they need at that specific time was also a nice touch.
October 31, 2024
Gillian Harvey is an author I only discovered earlier this year when I read The Riviera House Swap. She is a prolific author who writes escapist stories often set in France.
The story centres around Monique the mysterious bookshop owner and Adeline a young English woman who has taken a job as her assistant in the shop. Having recently discovered that she is adopted with a French birth mother Adeline has moved from England, to take this job in France to try and come to terms with the revelation. Along with her daughter Lilli they quickly settle in and Adeline discovers some surprising things about herself along the way.
A touch of escapism that will appeal to those looking for a quick mood enhancing read.
With thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
The story centres around Monique the mysterious bookshop owner and Adeline a young English woman who has taken a job as her assistant in the shop. Having recently discovered that she is adopted with a French birth mother Adeline has moved from England, to take this job in France to try and come to terms with the revelation. Along with her daughter Lilli they quickly settle in and Adeline discovers some surprising things about herself along the way.
A touch of escapism that will appeal to those looking for a quick mood enhancing read.
With thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
June 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pleasurable. Worth your time. Sections of the book could be better.
I may be going against the hype with this one. For starters, the cover is inviting and beautiful. The vivid descriptions of Paris and its surroundings are captivating. The destination of working in a bookshop offering bibliotherapy is a definite must-read setup.
The story centers on Adeline, who escapes to a quaint French village to reset her life, working in a charming bookshop that matches readers with the perfect books for healing. Along the way, she becomes entangled in a personal journey of family secrets, adoption, and unexpected romance. It’s heartfelt in places, but for me, the pacing dragged, and the book slowly veered away from the bibliotherapy hook that initially pulled me in.
Despite the lovely setting and reflections on the power of books, I struggled to connect with the characters and found the dialogue stiff. The romance lacked spark, and the plot meandered more than it moved. Still, if you’re looking for a light, atmospheric escape with a touch of soul-searching, this one may hit the spot.
Pleasurable. Worth your time. Sections of the book could be better.
I may be going against the hype with this one. For starters, the cover is inviting and beautiful. The vivid descriptions of Paris and its surroundings are captivating. The destination of working in a bookshop offering bibliotherapy is a definite must-read setup.
The story centers on Adeline, who escapes to a quaint French village to reset her life, working in a charming bookshop that matches readers with the perfect books for healing. Along the way, she becomes entangled in a personal journey of family secrets, adoption, and unexpected romance. It’s heartfelt in places, but for me, the pacing dragged, and the book slowly veered away from the bibliotherapy hook that initially pulled me in.
Despite the lovely setting and reflections on the power of books, I struggled to connect with the characters and found the dialogue stiff. The romance lacked spark, and the plot meandered more than it moved. Still, if you’re looking for a light, atmospheric escape with a touch of soul-searching, this one may hit the spot.
August 4, 2025
3.5 stars. This was a nice, if somewhat far-fetched story. Not a lot of deep character development, but a sweet story nonetheless.
January 26, 2025
Sweet little book.
March 29, 2025
So the plot turned out to be somewhat interesting as I got to about two-thirds of the way in… This would be 2 stars if it weren’t for the pretty and escapist writing style! An easy read.
June 6, 2025
Terrific read! Getting over a shock of life not being what you thought, anger, guilt, forgiveness, hope and love. Definitely all there in this wonderfully touching book.
May 4, 2025
Gillian Harvey's novel, against the stunning setting of a small village in Provence, holds the promise of a magical and emotionally satisfying ride in 'The Little Provence Book Shop'. The narrative grabs the reader from the beginning with the picture of lone mother Adeline fleeing to safety and a new beginning with young daughter Lili in the sun-kissed French landscapes. This escape is not just geographic; it's a flight from the pain of family betrayal and a brave step toward rewriting her story.
The heart of the story is inside the walls of the town's "tiny bookstore," a shop that Adeline instinctively knows is more than mere 'ordinary it's somehow different… magical.' This tale demonstrates the power of books to change us and maybe the unlikely bonds they can create. Adeline's hope of seeing the enigmatic owner, Monique, infuses an interesting level, that she will begin anew with more than the aroma of aged paper to guide her.
With Adeline gradually blending into the life of the village and connecting with the people who live there, including "handsome Andre" and "friendly Michel," chances for an honest new start start to emerge. These nascent relationships demonstrate the possibility of community, support, and even romance, giving Adeline the opportunity to heal and find happiness again. The author masterfully asks the question that matters most: "Can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she's looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?" This instantly establishes an engaging emotional trajectory, leaving the reader interested in Adeline's path and optimistic about her future.
The novel nicely conjures up a feeling of atmosphere, promising a rich tale full of the charm of Provence and the gentle enchantment of a small-town bookstore. It demonstrates a story about healing, strength, searching for belonging, and the bravery of trusting again after heartbreak. The addition of Lili introduces another level, emphasizing the resilience of the mother-daughter relationship and the urge to provide a stable and nurturing environment.
The novel conjures a rich description of an enjoyable and heartwarming read. It holds out the prospect of a journey of discovery against the serene background, filled with interesting characters, and focused on the reassuring presence of a magical bookstore. If you're in the mood for a tale that provides an escape to the loveliness of Provence and considers the potential for happiness after adversity, this novel by Gillian Harvey is ready to provide a genuinely compelling experience. It's a story full of promise for warmth, charm, and a dash of magic.
The heart of the story is inside the walls of the town's "tiny bookstore," a shop that Adeline instinctively knows is more than mere 'ordinary it's somehow different… magical.' This tale demonstrates the power of books to change us and maybe the unlikely bonds they can create. Adeline's hope of seeing the enigmatic owner, Monique, infuses an interesting level, that she will begin anew with more than the aroma of aged paper to guide her.
With Adeline gradually blending into the life of the village and connecting with the people who live there, including "handsome Andre" and "friendly Michel," chances for an honest new start start to emerge. These nascent relationships demonstrate the possibility of community, support, and even romance, giving Adeline the opportunity to heal and find happiness again. The author masterfully asks the question that matters most: "Can a runaway like Adeline ever find what she's looking for? Or is a happy-ever-after just another fiction?" This instantly establishes an engaging emotional trajectory, leaving the reader interested in Adeline's path and optimistic about her future.
The novel nicely conjures up a feeling of atmosphere, promising a rich tale full of the charm of Provence and the gentle enchantment of a small-town bookstore. It demonstrates a story about healing, strength, searching for belonging, and the bravery of trusting again after heartbreak. The addition of Lili introduces another level, emphasizing the resilience of the mother-daughter relationship and the urge to provide a stable and nurturing environment.
The novel conjures a rich description of an enjoyable and heartwarming read. It holds out the prospect of a journey of discovery against the serene background, filled with interesting characters, and focused on the reassuring presence of a magical bookstore. If you're in the mood for a tale that provides an escape to the loveliness of Provence and considers the potential for happiness after adversity, this novel by Gillian Harvey is ready to provide a genuinely compelling experience. It's a story full of promise for warmth, charm, and a dash of magic.
September 4, 2024
Adeline discovers some life changing news as she sorts through her deceased mother’s belongings. This betrayal, compounding her grief, sends her on a quest from London to Provence to seek answers about her identity. A series of synchronistic events leads Adeline and her five-year-old daughter to a quaint book shop owned by Monique, an eccentric woman characterized by some as a witch because of her affinity for crystals, spells, and her ability to “read” people.
This novel has a certain charm, but something essential felt missing. Many of the characters were underdeveloped – feeling like walk-ons in a play. The romantic elements felt lukewarm and magical realism aspects were repeated so often and met with such skepticism that it took the fun out of it. Lastly, the outcome was so obvious early on that the ending felt anticlimactic.
Given the lesser appreciated elements listed above, I did enjoy the descriptions of the book shop and the village of St. Vianne. The concept of bibliotherapy – finding the right book that speaks to an issue needing healing is reasonable – but as Adeline points out, it is an enhancement, not a substitute for professional help. The quotes from Emily Dickenson’s poetry were a welcome dimension to Adeline’s journey. Lastly, I loved the statement about stories…one soul reaching out to another…letting us know we are not alone, and we are understood. This is the healing power of a book that resonates with the reader.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This novel has a certain charm, but something essential felt missing. Many of the characters were underdeveloped – feeling like walk-ons in a play. The romantic elements felt lukewarm and magical realism aspects were repeated so often and met with such skepticism that it took the fun out of it. Lastly, the outcome was so obvious early on that the ending felt anticlimactic.
Given the lesser appreciated elements listed above, I did enjoy the descriptions of the book shop and the village of St. Vianne. The concept of bibliotherapy – finding the right book that speaks to an issue needing healing is reasonable – but as Adeline points out, it is an enhancement, not a substitute for professional help. The quotes from Emily Dickenson’s poetry were a welcome dimension to Adeline’s journey. Lastly, I loved the statement about stories…one soul reaching out to another…letting us know we are not alone, and we are understood. This is the healing power of a book that resonates with the reader.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 13, 2024
I knew I was going to enjoy this one from its opening pages – so perfectly cinematic, with Monique opening her book shop as the day begins in the heart of her French village, looking forward to the arrival of her new assistant. And what followed certainly didn’t disappoint – a really lovely story, told with exceptional warmth, and with more than a touch of real magic.
Adeline’s life was rocked by a secret in her past, and the chance online discovery of an opening for a bookseller in the small village in Provence provides her with the refuge and escape she really needs. Accompanied by her young daughter Lili, the village and their temporary home are everything she hoped they would be – and bookshop owner Monique soon becomes a close friend. Although she is a touch unsettled when she discovers that Monique is in demand for the way she’s able to find the perfect books her customers need at difficult times in their lives – and even more so by her belief in spells and the power of crystals.
The book she introduces Adeline to is the poetry of Emily Dickinson – full of the right words to soothe her troubled mind (and nicely interspersed in the narrative). And finding herself increasingly at home within her new community – while discovering she too has a gift for matching people with the books they need, and the possibility of a love interest after a rather shaky start – she finds the bravery to repair the rift with her remaining family and to finally resolve the mystery that had unsettled her so badly.
The characterisation is superb – I very much enjoyed Adeline’s journey, young Lili is equally beautifully drawn, and Monique fascinated throughout. The story is gently told – and the touches of magic are equally gently introduced and a very natural and believable part of it all. There’s a palpable warmth to the story’s telling, and a really perfect touch with the more emotional content. And as for the village itself, and the bookshop Le Petit Libraire – as well as being a lovely endorsement of the healing power of books, this really was armchair travel at its very best, with the most vivid descriptions that made me feel present in every moment.
The story itself was completely engaging throughout – with a few twists and turns that perhaps weren’t entirely unexpected, but the ending was every bit as perfect as I hoped it would be. I’ll look forward to reading more from this talented author – this was a book I very much enjoyed, and would most certainly recommend to others.
Adeline’s life was rocked by a secret in her past, and the chance online discovery of an opening for a bookseller in the small village in Provence provides her with the refuge and escape she really needs. Accompanied by her young daughter Lili, the village and their temporary home are everything she hoped they would be – and bookshop owner Monique soon becomes a close friend. Although she is a touch unsettled when she discovers that Monique is in demand for the way she’s able to find the perfect books her customers need at difficult times in their lives – and even more so by her belief in spells and the power of crystals.
The book she introduces Adeline to is the poetry of Emily Dickinson – full of the right words to soothe her troubled mind (and nicely interspersed in the narrative). And finding herself increasingly at home within her new community – while discovering she too has a gift for matching people with the books they need, and the possibility of a love interest after a rather shaky start – she finds the bravery to repair the rift with her remaining family and to finally resolve the mystery that had unsettled her so badly.
The characterisation is superb – I very much enjoyed Adeline’s journey, young Lili is equally beautifully drawn, and Monique fascinated throughout. The story is gently told – and the touches of magic are equally gently introduced and a very natural and believable part of it all. There’s a palpable warmth to the story’s telling, and a really perfect touch with the more emotional content. And as for the village itself, and the bookshop Le Petit Libraire – as well as being a lovely endorsement of the healing power of books, this really was armchair travel at its very best, with the most vivid descriptions that made me feel present in every moment.
The story itself was completely engaging throughout – with a few twists and turns that perhaps weren’t entirely unexpected, but the ending was every bit as perfect as I hoped it would be. I’ll look forward to reading more from this talented author – this was a book I very much enjoyed, and would most certainly recommend to others.
August 26, 2024
I may say this every time I read one of Gillian Harey's France-based books, but a little bit of me wants to find a small village somewhere in France where I can lose myself!
This time, in The Little Provence Book Shop, the main character, Adeline, has taken a big step after a tumultuous period in her life. She has uprooted herself and Lili, her five-year-old daughter, from London to a sleepy village in rural Provence, where she has somehow found a job in a tiny bookshop.
Armed with enough French to get by and not much more, Adeline starts work and develops an interesting relationship with the shop's owner, Monique, with whom she feels a strange connection she cannot pinpoint.
She is running from a secret and a possible answer she is looking to find, and at the bookshop, she slowly realises that she might not be the only one with something she is hiding, and secrets rarely stay in the box we put them in.
Of course, there is a chance of romance - why would there not be? But whether it comes from hunky patissier Andre or more friendly Michel is not for me to tell!
The Little Provence Bookshop is a feel-good, heartwarming story about a woman looking for her roots. Along the way, she finds them and helps others find their branches.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood for an ARC.
This time, in The Little Provence Book Shop, the main character, Adeline, has taken a big step after a tumultuous period in her life. She has uprooted herself and Lili, her five-year-old daughter, from London to a sleepy village in rural Provence, where she has somehow found a job in a tiny bookshop.
Armed with enough French to get by and not much more, Adeline starts work and develops an interesting relationship with the shop's owner, Monique, with whom she feels a strange connection she cannot pinpoint.
She is running from a secret and a possible answer she is looking to find, and at the bookshop, she slowly realises that she might not be the only one with something she is hiding, and secrets rarely stay in the box we put them in.
Of course, there is a chance of romance - why would there not be? But whether it comes from hunky patissier Andre or more friendly Michel is not for me to tell!
The Little Provence Bookshop is a feel-good, heartwarming story about a woman looking for her roots. Along the way, she finds them and helps others find their branches.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood for an ARC.
September 26, 2025
3.75
This book was exactly what I needed at the moment, something casual, bookish, and comforting. A story set around a bookshop always draws me in, and this one hit the spot. It wasn’t too heavy or overly serious, but it also avoided being silly. Just a genuinely lovely, nice read.
I really enjoyed the writing style, the author’s love for Emily Dickinson shines through in the prose, and I found myself loving it as well. At its core, the book is about found family and reconciliation, themes I always gravitate toward.
There’s also an interesting thread of superstition and spirituality woven into the story, not in a religious sense, but more about being in tune with your spirit, your thoughts, and your own personal faith. I gave it a bit of side-eye at times, but honestly, I loved how it added depth to the book.
My main critique is that some parts dragged. There were sections where I felt the pacing slowed a little too much, and overall, the story was fairly predictable, I could see the ending coming from a mile away.
Even with that, I loved the atmosphere, the themes, and the writing itself. I’d definitely recommend The Little Province Bookshop to anyone looking for a cozy, heartfelt read.
This book was exactly what I needed at the moment, something casual, bookish, and comforting. A story set around a bookshop always draws me in, and this one hit the spot. It wasn’t too heavy or overly serious, but it also avoided being silly. Just a genuinely lovely, nice read.
I really enjoyed the writing style, the author’s love for Emily Dickinson shines through in the prose, and I found myself loving it as well. At its core, the book is about found family and reconciliation, themes I always gravitate toward.
There’s also an interesting thread of superstition and spirituality woven into the story, not in a religious sense, but more about being in tune with your spirit, your thoughts, and your own personal faith. I gave it a bit of side-eye at times, but honestly, I loved how it added depth to the book.
My main critique is that some parts dragged. There were sections where I felt the pacing slowed a little too much, and overall, the story was fairly predictable, I could see the ending coming from a mile away.
Even with that, I loved the atmosphere, the themes, and the writing itself. I’d definitely recommend The Little Province Bookshop to anyone looking for a cozy, heartfelt read.
August 27, 2024
Set in Provence, Monique owns a bookshop where she helps people by selecting books especially for them. She calls herself the book doctor as she believes books help people improve their mental health.
Adeline and her daughter Lili, move from England to Provence to help Madeline with the bookstore. Adeline is ready to start anew. Can Monique provide the support she needs?
Both Monique and Adeline have their own struggles. Will they be able to support each other and help each other find their way? What will they discover?
This book will bring a fun escape to Provence, France. I loved how this author tackles the issues surrounding birth mothers and adoption, while creating a heartfelt and entertaining read. I loved the ending! I would never have guessed it! A great book for book clubs, as it will lead to many great discussions!
Thanks to Boldwood Books, I was provided an ARC of The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Adeline and her daughter Lili, move from England to Provence to help Madeline with the bookstore. Adeline is ready to start anew. Can Monique provide the support she needs?
Both Monique and Adeline have their own struggles. Will they be able to support each other and help each other find their way? What will they discover?
This book will bring a fun escape to Provence, France. I loved how this author tackles the issues surrounding birth mothers and adoption, while creating a heartfelt and entertaining read. I loved the ending! I would never have guessed it! A great book for book clubs, as it will lead to many great discussions!
Thanks to Boldwood Books, I was provided an ARC of The Little Provence Book Shop by Gillian Harvey via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2024
Adeline, a single mother fleeing a troubled past, finds solace in the charming village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. She takes a job at the local bookshop, a quaint little store filled with the scent of old paper and the promise of new beginnings.
I loved some parts of the book, firstly the setting its beautiful and all the characters and reading them is heartwarming. It has the perfect blend of Love, loss, discovery of self, magical realism, and betrayal.
The main theme of book BIBLIOTHERAPY is phenomenal.I always believed in that Right book can help you.
The book felt too slow for my liking and too much info dump. The inner monologues of Adeline and description felt unnecessary and made the story dragging.
Otherwise it’s a heartwarming read.
Thank you NETGALLEY and BOLDWOOD BOOKS for the ARC
I loved some parts of the book, firstly the setting its beautiful and all the characters and reading them is heartwarming. It has the perfect blend of Love, loss, discovery of self, magical realism, and betrayal.
The main theme of book BIBLIOTHERAPY is phenomenal.I always believed in that Right book can help you.
The book felt too slow for my liking and too much info dump. The inner monologues of Adeline and description felt unnecessary and made the story dragging.
Otherwise it’s a heartwarming read.
Thank you NETGALLEY and BOLDWOOD BOOKS for the ARC
September 1, 2024
This was my first Gillian Harvey book and I will definitely be back for more! I would call this a "cozy coming of age" story. Set in a small village in Provence. Adeline flees her life in London with her 5 year old daughter Lily after learning some very upsetting news. Her mother has passed away and her job eliminated so she answers an ad to work in a bookshop in a tiny French village where she learns a lot about herself, her family and what's most important in life.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
March 4, 2025
This book was a lot more thought provoking and philosophical than I was expecting. I enjoyed the exploration of the meaning of family, the individual growth in understanding ourselves and others and the acceptance of uncertainty. It was sold as a romance in the bookshop but I would say that’s a subplot at best, which I was pleased to discover. I would describe it as a reflective book of self discovery set against a backdrop of gorgeous French village life with a lovely collection of characters.
June 18, 2025
The found family in this was adorable.
I love a family connections book, and a book about books, and love that this had both.
While this is probably categorized as a contemporary romance, the main plot line and strongest element for me seemed to revolve around family and the MC finding herself and happiness.
The familial connections warmed my heart, and that ending just made me softly smile with happiness for Adeline.
Overall, I found this book to be cute and cozy and filled with hope and positivity.
I love a family connections book, and a book about books, and love that this had both.
While this is probably categorized as a contemporary romance, the main plot line and strongest element for me seemed to revolve around family and the MC finding herself and happiness.
The familial connections warmed my heart, and that ending just made me softly smile with happiness for Adeline.
Overall, I found this book to be cute and cozy and filled with hope and positivity.
September 1, 2024
First of all thank you netgalley for this ARC. My review was in no way swayed and my thoughts are my own.
I loved this book. It's a delightful blend of magical realism, fond family, love, loss, and finding yourself. I love it when a book is written about books or libraries. Just makes your want to settle in and get cozy. The author did a wonderful job seeing the scene in Provence as well as building the characters. I became invested in each ones story and outcome. It truly is a must read.
I loved this book. It's a delightful blend of magical realism, fond family, love, loss, and finding yourself. I love it when a book is written about books or libraries. Just makes your want to settle in and get cozy. The author did a wonderful job seeing the scene in Provence as well as building the characters. I became invested in each ones story and outcome. It truly is a must read.
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