Reviews

The Bookstore Sisters by Alice Hoffman

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in_libris_speramus's review

3.0

Short stories are some of the hardest things to write; you have to plop the reader into the middle of the plot and run at full speed to make it to the denouement before supper. As the reader, most of the time I end up feeling like there's something missing from the story to make it truly memorable, and this is one of those times.

I wish this story was longer, even just novella length. I wanted more character development for Violet, more interactions between the sisters leading to their reconciliation, more introspection for Isabel. There are more plot holes and loose ends than actual resolution.

Regardless, it was sweet and had a soft, sappy ending that makes you feel good for a few minutes, and I can't fault anyone for loving that.

krstwlhs's review against another edition

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emotional fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

suz_n_van's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

julieanncordero's review

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4.0

I listened to this short story on Audible and really enjoyed it. The heartbreak of losing loved ones and running from problems hits close to home, but knowing you can always return home offers an idea of hope too.

suvata's review

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3.0

#StoryGraph: fiction magical realism short stories emotional hopeful reflective fast-paced fantasy magical-realism

DESCRIPTION

Isabel Gibson has all but perfected the art of forgetting. She’s a New Yorker now, with nothing left to tie her to Brinkley’s Island, Maine. Her parents are gone, the family bookstore is all but bankrupt, and her sister, Sophie, will probably never speak to her again.

But when a mysterious letter arrives in her mailbox, Isabel feels herself drawn to the past. After years of fighting for her independence, she dreads the thought of going back to the island. What she finds there may forever alter her path—and change everything she thought she knew about her family, her home, and herself.