Reviews

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray

jlk64's review against another edition

emotional informative reflective sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

spookyautumnleaves's review against another edition

emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

mollycarter7's review

informative medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

travelingkayte's review against another edition

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

imaginethis346's review against another edition

5.0

I loved this historical fiction book. A woman who is divided between her success & her race. Belle obtained unprecedented success as woman & as a person of color. Her endearing & challenging relationship with the wealthy Mr. Morgan is highlighted throughout the book. Belle worked hard to provide Mr. Morgan with the most exquisite book & art collections.

“If you leave me, I will write you out of my will.” Mr. Morgan

“You can buy a great many items and objects with your gold Mr. Morgan, but you cannot buy me.” Ms. Greene

aimeebenitez4's review against another edition

informative reflective slow-paced

2.25

procrasprincess's review

3.0

2.8⭐️

Plot: 2/5 | Characters: 3/5 | Writing: 3.5/5

Spoiler

I have mixed feelings about this book because the story is exciting and meaningful, and I especially read it during Black History Month. However, as historical fiction, I find that the plot development lacks consistency and drama, perhaps out of respect for the true story behind the book. Unfortunately, it felt flat for the most part, though I enjoy the writing. The epilogue is my favorite chapter.

katiegreen's review against another edition

challenging emotional funny inspiring tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated

4.0

gabriellamorelli's review against another edition

emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

mweir710's review

4.0

What a provocative read. I enjoyed learning more about the history of the personal librarian and found myself tangled in the web of emotions and loss. To have to give up a core identity to thrive in a world that shunned the thought of anything beyond segregation. It definitely gives readers quite a bit to think about, past or present.