The Printed Letter Bookshop

By: Katherine Reay

Narrated by: Hillary Huber

Books. Love. Friendship. Second chances. All can be found at the Printed Letter Bookshop in the small, charming town of Winsome.

One of Madeline Cullen's happiest childhood memories is of working with her Aunt Maddie in the quaint and cozy Printed Letter Bookshop. But by the time Madeline inherits the shop nearly twenty years later, family troubles and her own bitter losses have hardened Madeline's heart toward her once-treasured aunt--and the now struggling bookshop left in her care.

While Madeline intends to sell the shop as quickly as possible, the Printed Letter's two employees have other ideas. Reeling from a recent divorce, Janet finds sanctuary within the books and the decadent window displays she creates. Claire, though quieter than her outspoken colleague, feels equally drawn to the daily rhythms of the shop and has found a renewed sense of purpose within its walls.

When Madeline's professional life falls apart, and a handsome gardener upends her life, she questions her plans and her future. Has she been too quick to dismiss her aunt's beloved shop? And even if she has, the women's best efforts to save it may be too little, too late.

If you're looking for a heartwarming and cozy read that beautifully explores themes of love, friendship, and second chances, then The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay is the perfect book for you. With its richly drawn characters, touching storylines, and a deep appreciation for the power of books, this novel promises to be an enchanting escape that you won't want to end.

Critic reviews

Gifted narrator Hillary Huber introduces listeners to three women whose lives collide after the passing of a bookstore owner named Maddie. Madeline Cullen, Maddie's niece, is voiced in tones of regret and sadness, her fond memories of her aunt having been replaced by the bitterness of a family disagreement never settled. When Madeline inherits her aunt's bookstore, she meets sullen, quick-tempered Claire and sweet Janet. Notes of emotional pain can be heard in all three women's voices as their paths intertwine after Maddie's death. Each chapter is narrated by one of the three grieving women, and Huber seamlessly differentiates them with specific tones, tempos, and rhythms. With its expertly narrated story of healing, this audiobook is sure to warm hearts.

Forgiveness is a Blessing for Everyone

Nice story that kept your attention while getting you to think. It was a good ole’ tale that focused on the importance of family and friends.

A new favorite

Tender, funny, clever and unforgettable. I’ll return to The Printed Letter Bookshop just as her customers have. This one is a real treat.

exciting book shop

tender, loving, thoughtful . the book makes one think and wonder about ones life . thank you

We All Need to Find Our Aunt Maddie

This took a long time for me to become invested in (a lot like adulthood in general) but it is a story of women’s true coming of age- not the teenage one, but the one where we realize who we actually are and the self-discovery that comes with adulthood. It is about accidentally finding your people, forgiveness of others and forgiving one’s self. It’s about owning all that you are, can be and discovering that we are all better together.
When Madeline discovers her estranged Aunt Maddie has died and left her her book shop and her home, she imagines selling them and moving on. But these gifts change the course of her life and the lives of Janet and Claire, the two employees who work there. Together these women learn who they are and the art of caring for themselves and each other. In many ways Aunt Maddie is the Fairy Godmother who uses books and love to help those she loved in life find true life after she’s gone.

Great book!

Started slow, but quickly became intriguing. Really enjoyed this one! Wish there was a sequel.