4.01 AVERAGE

reflective slow-paced

I enjoyed reading this novel! Had to get used to the pretty slow pace, but once I found peace with it, it was also quite relaxing. Sometimes I was missing a bit more information, but overall that didn’t bother me. And what’s not to like about books about bookstores, right?
emotional hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

nams92's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 48%

Had no clue what was happening and did not care
emotional reflective medium-paced
funny inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

What a wonderful, cozy, peaceful book! The characters in the book are all learning how to take a breather, reassess what 'work' and 'success' means to them, letting go of the pressure of parental and societal expectations, and learning how to find pleasure and peace in the moment step by step instead of always looking to the future and the past. The translation is good, the prose gets out of the way to simply bring these characters and their conversations and thoughts to life. I loved every single one of them, and the friendship they develop is so warm and wholesome. If you love books, coffee, and a chilled read focused on characters hanging out in a bookshop rather than plot, you'll love this one.

I really wanted to like this; but none of the characters clicked with me, and I didn't really enjoy the pacing style. I'd like to try reading it again someday, and see if I like it more then.
hopeful inspiring lighthearted slow-paced
emotional inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

“To read is to see things from someone else's perspective, and that naturally leads you to stop and look out for other people, rather than chase after success in the rat race. If more people read, I think the world would become a better place.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a heartwarming read! This book is the embodiment of a warm hug and a comforting pep-talk. Reading it felt like stepping into a quiet little bookshop with soft ambience and no expectations for the day ahead; just peace, quiet, and space to breathe. Its themes of discovering personal happiness, stepping away from society’s narrow definition of success, and learning to slow down and savor life are beautifully woven into a sweet story full of realistic, gentle characters. This is the perfect book for anyone in their early twenties or those experiencing burnout or frustration with life. It’s a lovely reminder of how important it is to prioritize your happiness, honor your own pace, and protect your inner peace. 🥰