The Bookshop of Second Chances

Humor and charm abound in Frasier’s slow-burning debut. Thea Mottram’s life is in a downward spiral following the loss of her job and the breakup of her 15-year marriage. But things take a turn for the better when she learns that her late great uncle Andrew has left her his modest estate in Baldochrie, Scotland, including a large collection of rare books. She heads to Baldochrie, planning to stay only a few weeks to sort out Andrew’s affairs, but finds herself charmed by his old lodge and the eccentric locals—all except for standoffish Edward Maltravers, the local bookstore owner to whom she plans on selling Andrew’s library. Deciding to stay longer, Thea finds temporary employment at Edward’s shop—despite warnings from the locals to stay away from the grumpy bookseller—and soon finds herself at the center of a long-standing feud between Edward and his brother, the current Lord Hollinshaw, on whose land Thea’s lodge sits. Frank discussions about sex, family, and the lengths Edward has gone in his quest for revenge against his brother add spice, humor, and touching vulnerability to this authentic romance between two middle-aged protagonists. This mature love story hits the spot. (May)