HOW TO FIND LOVE IN A BOOKSHOP

Sometimes the right book comes along at the perfect time, and this was just that, for me. This sweet, heartwarming novel is the literary equivalent of a warm cup of tea and a cozy blanket.

The shop of the title, located in an idyllic Cotswolds town called Peasebrook, is owned by Emilia, who is determined to carry on her late father’s book store despite her inexperience and the business’s financial woes. This beloved shop proves central to the connection between various other Peasebrook residents, who are as integral to the story as Emilia. As the bookshop comes into its own, so do the relationships between these charming characters, each of whom I was rooting for until the very last page.

It can be challenging to find books that are light in subject, but still deeply satisfying. This book fit that bill perfectly. I found it heartwarming but never sappy, and while some may take issue with its slight predictability I found it sweetly reassuring. Being nestled in the Cotswolds with these earnest yet relatable characters was a treat that I didn’t want to end!

How To Find Love In a Bookshop has a lovely Christmas Eve scene, where customers drink mulled wine in the store and children nibble on gingerbread men. I couldn’t resist recreating these little cookie people, whose smiles reminded me of the books’ characters together for the holiday. Our family celebrates Hanukkah - which is all about donuts - but I’m hoping this cookie recipe becomes a new December tradition for us - we had so much fun making them! Do you have a winter baking tradition?