A review by perfictionist19
The Story Collector by Evie Gaughan

3.0

If you’re looking for a read with a touch of cozy, The Story Collector by Evie Woods delivers an enchanting tale set in the lush landscapes of Ireland - imbued with personal healing, magic and folkore.

Through the novel’s dual timelines—Sara’s journey in 2011 and Anna’s story from 1911—Woods intertwines the lives of two women whose experiences, though separated by time, mirror one another in poignant and unexpected ways- bridging a century.

The novel opens with Sara Harper, a woman struggling with personal trauma, who embarks on an impromptu trip to Ireland. Her journey is not just a geographical one but a quest for emotional recovery. On arriving, Sara stumbles upon a diary belonging to Anna, a young farm girl from a century earlier. Anna’s story unfolds as she assists an American visitor in translating Irish folklore, and she soon becomes entangled in a mystery.

Anna’s storyline, set in 1911, is rich and the incorporation of Irish folklore adds an additional layer of mystique, blending history with the supernatural. In contrast, Sara’s modern-day narrative, while thematically significant, lacks the same depth of characterization. Sara’s emotional journey of healing does have the potential to resonate, yet her portrayal feels somewhat one-dimensional. Furthermore, the romantic subplot in Sara’s storyline- the insta-like trope feels rushed and superficial. Rather than adorning the narrative, it appears as a filler and I much rather liked to read about Anna’s story more.

Nevertheless, the transitions between past and present are smooth, and the similarities and connections between Anna and Sara are felt through the pages— their shared sense of isolation and their search for belonging!

I would definitely love to read more from the author