The Bookbinder’s Guide to Love

I received this book for free from the publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

The Bookbinder's Guide to Love by Katherine Garbera
Series: Wicked Sisters #1
Published by Afterglow Books by Harlequin on January 23, 2024
Genres: Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy
Pages: 288
Format: ARC
Source: Publisher
Goodreads
Amazon | B&N | Kobo

A witchy, witty, wickedly sexy romance about love, books, friendship and the unexpected connections that bind us together…

Bookbinding (verb): the art of creating something magical out of fabric, leather and paper.

As a lonely foster kid, Serafina Conte sought refuge in handmaking journals—and writing her wishes within their pages. Now, in the quirky new age store she shares with her two best friends, Sera’s intentions have paid off. Her journals are in the spotlight—and rumored to manifest great things. Whether it’s witchy skills, real magic or not, Sera’s finally ready to be the leading lady of her life story…

Until her plot hits a twist.

After the death of her mentor, Ford Sitwell, all the loneliness and insecurity of her past returns. The only balm is the box of antique books he left to her. But Ford’s suspicious brooding grandson, Wes, is ready to think the worst of her—and get his grandfather’s books back! The first part doesn’t bother her. The second? Forget it. Sera won’t give Wes the books so easily. But it’s clear he’s seeking something more, an emotional connection no book can replace. So she offers a deal—work in her store for six weeks, and in return, she’ll help him get closure by sharing memories of his late grandfather.

Yes, Wes seems grumpy, but actually he’s hot…and maybe kind? Deep down? And when desire and vulnerability work their charms, Sera begins to wonder if the best stories aren’t the ones you intend, but the ones that take you where you least expected…

From showing up to glowing up, these characters are on the path to leading their best lives and finding sizzling romance along the way.

This was a fun romance! I tend to be drawn to books that involve books. I have read quite a few books set in bookstores but I think this was the first book that featured bookbinding as well, which I found very interesting. This story grabbed me right away, and I wanted to read it at every opportunity I could find. I am so glad that I took a chance and picked this one up.

Sera and Wes were great characters and I thought their relationship felt very authentic. The pair got off to a really bad start but I am glad that Sera was able to give Wes a chance after that initial meeting. They both have some pretty big issues from their past that they are dealing with and I was happy to see both characters finally move forward with their lives. There was a colorful cast of secondary characters that added a lot to this story and I hope to see more of them in future installments.

I would not hesitate to recommend this book to others. I thought that this was a fun romance filled with great characters. I love that the story dealt with grief, trust, friendship, and family relationships, in addition to a heartfelt romance. I look forward to reading more of this delightful series.

I received a review copy of this book from Afterglow Books by Harlequin.

Related Posts