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The Story Collector


From the international bestselling author of The Lost Bookshop!
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Overall, what did you think of The Story Collector? (No spoilers)

Created: 08/14/24

Replies: 44

Posted Sep. 03, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
Rocky's Butler

Join Date: 02/07/24

Posts: 7

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

I was engaged with the story because of the setting in Ireland. For me the most enjoyable are the characters who told the stories; they were fun and engaging.
The story line was somewhat predictable which I typically do not like, but I still enjoyed this story. Overall, if you are looking for a light read, this is it.


Posted Sep. 03, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
pamelak

Join Date: 09/08/23

Posts: 27

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

I loved this book. The parallels of the two stories was captivating. The study of fairies and how they are perceived and the purpose they serve was so interesting. I thought the book ultimately explored how people deal with loss and death. Once a person is ready to move beyond overwhelming grief the fairy let’s them go as when Milly told Anna that she wouldn’t see her again.


Posted Sep. 04, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
beckys

Join Date: 08/12/16

Posts: 273

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

When I started the book, I didn't think I was going to like it because I felt like it was a little far fetched, but the more I read, the more I couldn't put the book down. I really became invested in the characters and loved the folklore that was woven into it.


Posted Sep. 05, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
marganna

Join Date: 10/14/11

Posts: 162

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

It was a lightweight read - I fault myself a bit for being so distracted while reading this book - mentioned already -- wedding, travel, new puppy & I'll add house guests! But not really my kind of book - I love deep long sagas - but I also love Ireland & wanted to read about its legends, myths, stories so gave the book a chance. It was predictable & with the exception of some marvelous quotes as mentioned in previous question, it was not very thought provoking. The fairies were not well developed - somewhat just a vehicle to carry this story -- I'd give it a "FAIR" rating.


Posted Sep. 05, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
scottishrose

Join Date: 07/24/11

Posts: 253

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

Overall I liked the book and most of the characters. I also liked learning about the different characters perspectives about fairies. I gave it four stars because I thought at times it moved a little bit slow, but I kept reading to find out how Sarah's and Anna's stories would end. Woods is definitely an author I would recommend to others.


Posted Sep. 09, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
Muse48

Join Date: 12/27/18

Posts: 86

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

I know from experience that grief delayed is grief unresolved. Sarah and Anna are kindred spirits in their quest to find peace following heart wrenching personal loss. Thankfully, there are angels, saints or fairies to help us on our journeys. Effortlessly, Woods transports her readers from the glitz and glamour of New York art museums to the farmhouses and mansions of the Irish countryside and back again. With a cast of talented characters that range from sorrowful, conflicted, mysterious, comical, brave and romantic “The Story Collector” captures our imaginations as well as our senses. Apologetically, I find the ending confusing regarding Sarah and Oran.


Posted Sep. 09, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
pamelak

Join Date: 09/08/23

Posts: 27

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

Great and inspiring post by Muse 48. In regards to the ending I think the fact Oran left Ireland to be with Sarah at the end represented the advancements made in the 100 year difference between Sarah and Anna. Anna was trapped by societal expectations of her day but a century later Oran goes the distance to leave his homeland to be with his true love. In the past it was typically the woman who made the most sacrifices in her relationships. A century later a man sacrifices his country for his love. At least that’s how I thought about the ending-which I loved.


Posted Sep. 09, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
cathyt

Join Date: 08/14/22

Posts: 43

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

I thought it was a fun read. Not a literary blockbuster, but a quick, fun read. In today's social upheavals, it was a great escape book. I loved the descriptions of the land, the people, and the fairy places. Irish lore - well done without bringing in some of the crazy tales of fairies. I enjoyed this book.


Posted Sep. 19, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
teachlz

Join Date: 07/28/16

Posts: 58

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

I found that the book was difficult to get into in the beginning, but once I did, I found that the author vividly describes the landscape and the colorful and dramatic characters. Some parts seemed repetitive.


Posted Sep. 26, 2024 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
taking.mytime's Gravatar
taking.mytime

Join Date: 03/29/16

Posts: 443

RE: Overall, what did you think of The ...

Creative, easy read. Not flooded with unnecessary characters. Nice light story of characters you hardly ever read about.


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