Interesting concept, hints of Chestertonian arguments, and an unexpected and refreshing defense of homeschooling, but somehow the execution just didn't carry it off. I know it's a translation but something just wasn't there. Can't really recommend, unfortunately. ( )

A distinctive and delightfuly entertaining tale of literature, philosophy and the search for happiness.

After going months without finding a good book I was pleasantly surprised to stumble across this one in a second hand bookstore.

I am never the type to reach for a book that even hints at romance but I must admit I may have judged this one by the cover, as well as the words "tea", "Louisa May Alcott", and "cosy" on the back. All things I love.

Once I started reading the book I was intrigued as it was nothing like I had expected. I found that it was really unique and unpredictable in the way it unravelled the story of romance, and I adored the literary references and debate over education systems. I also admired the way it progressed almost like a mystery novel, revealing only small bits of information at a time to keep you curious and engaged.

I will now admit that I can not give this a 5 out of 5 for the following reasons; The ending. WITHOUT SPOILING, I must admit that the ending did not live up to my expectations. I think it had a GREAT ending but it was not at all what I had expected and I do think it could have been done a tiny bit better. Having said that, I closed the book feeling absolutely heartbroken at no longer being able to witness the life of Prudencia Prim who I had grown to envy.

She is a beautiful and real character who I was able to relate to in a lot of ways. That may not be the case for everyone but I found that she had very realistic perspectives and opinions and that her interactions with other characters were not overly romanticised or dramatic but were true to the way any normal human being would respond.

All in all a fabulous book and great way to kick off my 2022 reading list! ( )

A fun little pastry puff of a book that can be read lightly or deeply. Bonus points for references to Great Books and in particular Jane Austen and also why we should read Little Women. I almost categorized this as a fable as I don't think a town like this could actually exist--but maybe it does! A lot of tea and bakery items are consumed within it's pages--perfect those who equate book reading with a cozy cup of tea. Nice little winter read.

In my effort to buy more print books and make sure I visit more Independent bookstores on my travels this was purchased at the Alexander Book Company while on a business trip to San Francisco. ( )

We all need an awakening

The comparison between our current culture of rushing and being busy vs. times of relaxed pace and generous hospitality was beautifully done. It creates a longing for those days when we knew our neighbors and they knew us. A thoughtful book on what we think we have gained and what we have lost. ( )