Kristina A. reviewed on 2/27/2019 + 1528 more book reviews

The Secrets of Paper and Ink by Lindsay Harrel takes readers on a journey to Cornwall. Sophia Barrett is a women's counselor in Phoenix, Arizona. Her abusive husband died over a year ago and Sophia has spent the last three months recovering from a breakdown. Sophia's first patient turns out to be an abusive victim which causes her to flee. Needing to find a way to move forward, Sophia decides a change a venue is needed and heads to Cornwall, England. She fell in love with the area through the works of her favorite author, Robert Appleton. Sophia is living in the flat over Rosebud Books owned by Ginny Rose and her estranged husband, Garrett. As part of the rental agreement, Sophia agrees to work part-time in the store which is a perfect fit for Sophia with her love of literature.

Ginny Rose left Harvard to follow Garrett Rose to Port Willis, Cornwall, England. It had always been Garrett's dream to open a bookstore and Sophia helped him achieve it. Then six months ago, Garrett left to find himself and Ginny is struggling to keep the shop open. Ginny is positive that Garrett will return to her and she wants to make sure the bookstore is there for him. Sophia immediately has some ideas to help increase traffic into the store and their website.

While sorting through the books in the store, Sophia finds an old journal belonging to Emily Fairfax. In the 1850s, Emily lost her father and became a governess. Emily spends her spare time writing stories and dreaming of becoming a published author. She grew up with Edward Elliott and was deeply in love with him. However, Edward was the oldest son and heir who is expected to marry a society lady. Sophia wants to learn more about Emily and enlists the help of Ginny's literature professor brother-in-law, William. Sophia grows close to William while following Emily's journey, but she is afraid to fall in love again. Just when things are looking up for Ginny, it looks like she will lose it all. How will the stories of these three women play out?

The Secrets of Paper and Ink is charming tale that combines the stories of three woman. We get to see them overcome pain and loss to move forward as stronger, fulfilled women. The authors flowery descriptions of Cornwall transported me to the area. I like how the three stories are woven together into one lovely story. While Sophia and Ginny's section are told in the third person, Emily's journal entries are her personal accounts (first person). The Christian element is light but pivotal. It is important to have faith and realize that only One person is truly in charge. The Secrets of Paper and Ink is well-written with thoughtful pacing. We get to see women overcoming adversity and taking charge of their lives. The romance is light and sweetly knitted into each ladies' tale. I appreciated how the story comes together with a heartwarming ending. The Secrets of Paper and Ink is a perfect for those readers who like to read women's fiction and watch romantic movies.

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