I really enjoyed The Last Chance Library by Freya Sampson, and I read it in one day.
I would recommend it to those who like village cozies, small towns, comfort reads, and those who are passionate about reading, libraries, and the importance of community. There's a hint of
…more romance, though perhaps not enough to satisfy true genre fans. I think those who've felt they're too shy or that they haven't done much with their lives, especially compared to their peers, would like this book. There are a variety of age groups represented in the book, so I can see it appealing to those in their 20s on up.
June is a sweet character who I wanted to root for and who I wanted to instill with confidence in herself. On the other hand she wasn't so much of a sad sack that I thought, "you're right, what in earth would other people like about you?" Even when she didn't recognize the broader impact she had on her community, she still knew she was competent at her job and she liked doing it. And she'd be someone I'd enjoy having as a friend.
I liked some of the supporting characters more than others, but that's always the way with people. I will remember a few of them fondly, even into the future, I'm sure.
I especially enjoyed the epilogue (though it's not labeled as such). I was quite satisfied with the choices the author made.
While this book isn't groundbreaking or especially original in its story, it is nicely told and I appreciated the support for libraries. I'm sure the statistics cited by a character about the number of libraries that have closed in the UK over the last several years are accurate, which is a travesty. I think the book does a great job of demonstrating that a library is about so much more than it's book collection and circulation numbers.
I didn't want to overlook the cover art in my review. I love this cover. It's whimsical and charming, and it's definitely one I'd be attracted to in a bookstore or online. (less)
