Review of Not Quite by the Book by Clare O’Donohue
As a book blogger, I’m always looking for stories that resonate deeply, and Not Quite by the Book by Clare O’Donohue certainly caught my eye. With a title that hints at literary escapades and a protagonist who flirts with her own version of a literary pilgrimage, I was eager to dive into Emma Rini’s world. After all, who wouldn’t want to step into a grand manor where echoes of Emily Dickinson still linger?
Emma’s struggle to find herself amidst familial obligations and the weight of running a cherished family bookstore felt all too relatable. The vibrant environment of a bookstore—the smell of aged pages, the thrill of discovering new stories—immediately tugged at my heartstrings, and I was excited for Emma to find her own narrative arc. Unfortunately, while I appreciated the exploration of her growth, I found the romantic subplot lacking, leading me to settle on a three-star rating.
At its core, Not Quite by the Book delves into the themes of self-discovery and familial love. Emma, feeling overwhelmed by her parents’ expectations and her sister’s impending motherhood, decides she desperately needs a break. Her choice of a six-week vacation at the very place where her literary idol once wrote is inspiring. However, the adventure quickly turns into a test of her ability to manage the manor—and her feelings. The first-person narrative offers a unique glimpse into Emma’s thoughts, making her frustrations and aspirations palpable.
What I enjoyed most was Emma’s character arc. She strives to emulate Emily Dickinson, only to discover that her path does not need to mirror her idol’s. This exploration of flawed, relatable characters—who are all imperfect yet loving—was refreshing. There’s no villain here, just real people trying to navigate life, something I found heartwarming. That said, the romance didn’t resonate with me. I noticed it strayed into the dreaded territory of miscommunication and misunderstandings, and rather than being intrigued, I found myself a bit annoyed whenever Emma’s romantic developments took center stage.
The writing style was engaging, with lush descriptions of the manor and some thoughtful reflections on Emily Dickinson’s work, though at times it felt excessive—especially for someone like me, who isn’t particularly enamored with Dickinson. While die-hard fans may appreciate these references, I longed for a more balanced approach. The side characters, particularly Cecily, shone brightly, providing depth and intrigue, although I wished Grace had a bigger role.
Despite my reservations about the romance, the ending delivered a satisfying resolution. It felt earned, yet by that point, I was so focused on Emma’s growth that my investment in a happily-ever-after felt muted.
All in all, Not Quite by the Book offers a poignant exploration of familial relationships and self-acceptance, ultimately making it an enjoyable read for those who appreciate contemporary women’s fiction. If you enjoy narratives centered on personal growth amid familial obligation, this book might just resonate with you. For me, it was a pleasant journey, albeit one overshadowed by a romance that left me wanting more coherence. Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for the eARC; this review is entirely my own honest thoughts.
So, who should pick up Not Quite by the Book? If you cherish stories wrapped in familial dynamics with a hint of literary nostalgia, or if you find solace in flawed characters navigating life’s messiness, then delve into Emma’s world—just be prepared for a twisty road when it comes to love!