After reading two psychological thrillers in a row, I decided I needed a change of genre. I made the decision to read one of the novels that I had picked up during a sale at a bookstore: The Bookshop on Rosemary Lane by Ellen Berry. I chose this novel as I liked the blurb on the back – especially the character’s wish for a cookbook titled Rustling Up Dinner When Your Husband Has Left You.

The story centres around Della Cartwright whose mother leaves her hundreds of cookbooks when she dies. Wanting to share all these recipes, she decides to open a bookshop in Rosemary Lane in the village where she grew up. The story is not only about opening a bookshop though. Instead it is a story about a 50 year old woman whose daughter has left home to begin university, and who does not seem to have a close relationship with her husband. Della’s story is told with sensitivity and humour.

“They (the cookbooks) did though – three days later – not because Mark and Sophie had granted permission but because Della had decided she didn’t need anyone’s approval to assume custody of her mother’s books. They were hers by right, for goodness’ sake. Easy As Pie was related to her by blood. The Avocado Handbook and Elegant Catering were moving into 57 Pickering Street and, short of armed security being installed at the front door, nothing was going to stop them.” (p34, AVON a division of Harper Collins Publishers, 2016)

Throughout the novel, Della comes to the realisation that what she wants is important – as important as what others want. I enjoyed reading about her journey as she makes the decisions that embrace her taking back her life. I was definitely on her side and cheered when she successfully opens her bookshop despite criticism.

I enjoyed reading this tale and could not resist giving it 5 stars on Goodreads. I loved it so much that I visited the book store to buy the next story in this series.

Have you read any of Ellen Berry’s Books?

© Colline Kook-Chun, 2018

(This novel was the 24th in my 50 book pledge for 2018)