The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods intertwines the stories of three characters in a magical realism narrative centered around the search for a lost Emily Brontë manuscript. In 1920s Paris and Dublin, Opaline Carlisle flees an arranged marriage and strives to uncover the manuscript. In contemporary Dublin, Martha and Henry unite to uncover Opaline's history and the lost manuscript, discovering Martha's family secrets and their own paths to belonging. The book includes themes of abuse, addiction, and forced institutionalization.

The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods is praised for its enchanting narrative and well-developed characters, creating an immersive reading experience. Critics appreciate the magical realism and emotional depth. However, some reviews mention a slow pacing and predictability in parts of the story. Overall, it's a heartwarming read with a touch of whimsy.

A reader who delights in The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George or The Secret, Book & Scone Society by Ellery Adams would find Evie Woods' The Lost Bookshop enthralling. It appeals to lovers of bibliomysteries, whimsical settings, and stories where books change lives, seamlessly blending charm, mystery, and a love for literature.

Mysterious / Emotional / Nostalgic / Heartwarming / Inspirational

**Opaline Carlisle**  
One of the three protagonists in the story, Opaline is an intelligent and independent woman of the 1920s. She defies societal and familial expectations by cutting her hair in a bob and escaping an arranged marriage set up by her brother, Lyndon. Opaline's love for books drives her career, working first at the Shakespeare and Company bookshop and later running her own rare bookshop in Dublin. She is also motivated by the discovery of a lost Emily Brontë manuscript.

**Lyndon Carlisle**  
The primary antagonist in Opaline's storyline, Lyndon is initially believed to be Opaline’s much-older brother. He is controlling and attempts to arrange Opaline’s marriage. His cruel and self-centered nature surfaces through his need to command obedience and control.

**Armand Hassan**  
Opaline’s complex and self-serving lover from Morocco who lives in Paris. He works as a rare book dealer and becomes increasingly misogynistic and vindictive when Opaline refuses to give him control over the Brontë manuscript.

**Josef Wolffe**  
An Austrian prisoner of war during World War II, Josef is kind and contributes positively to Opaline’s life. Their relationship deepens after he returns to Dublin years later, offering her a chance at lasting love.

**Madame Bowden**  
An eccentric figure for whom Martha works after leaving her abusive husband. Madame Bowden owns the house next to the mysterious bookshop that features in the elements of magical realism within the story.

**Shane**  
Martha’s abusive, estranged husband and antagonist in her storyline. His jealousy and control result in a tumultuous relationship, eventually leading to his death under mysterious circumstances related to the novel's plot.

Evie Woods

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Novel

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Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Lost Bookshop and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Lost Bookshop Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Lost Bookshop Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 9

The Lost Bookshop Prologue-Chapter 9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-17

The Lost Bookshop Chapters 10-17 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 18-26

The Lost Bookshop Chapters 18-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-37

The Lost Bookshop Chapters 27-37 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 38-47

The Lost Bookshop Chapter 48-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

Chapter 48-Epilogue

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Character Analysis

The Lost Bookshop Character Analysis

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Themes

The Lost Bookshop Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Lost Bookshop Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Lost Bookshop Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Lost Bookshop Essay Topics

Book Club Questions

The Lost Bookshop Book Club Questions

The Lost Bookshop

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Lost Bookshop?

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Book Details