A quaint town, a mysterious librarian and a touch of Southern magic make THE BOOK CHARMER a title that tugs at your heartstrings and implores you to keep turning the pages.

Sarah Dove possesses a uniquely wonderful gift that would be the envy of any bookworm: she can hear the whispers of books. They tell her who should be reading them, and in her role as librarian, she guides her patrons to the books they need to read. But lately, the books have taken a turn from their “normal” messages. There is a girl who will soon be arriving in Dove Pond --- a girl with the potential to have a powerful and positive impact on the dying town.

"...sweet and cozy with strong heroines and lovable secondary characters... The blend of magic, love, friendship, struggles and trials is woven beautifully throughout the pages."

Grace Wheeler has no interest in playing a role in saving Dove Pond; in fact, she doesn’t even plan on staying for any longer than necessary. With a rocky past and a guarded heart, Grace has arrived in the little town to care for Mama Giano (“Mama G.”) and her niece. Years ago, she’d been placed with Mama G. after being bounced around to various foster homes. It was Mama G. who made her feel loved and gave her a true home. She will do whatever it takes to help the two people she loves; then it’s goodbye Dove Pond and back to the city. But the books have more in store for Grace. Much more.

A special book, wise and up to the challenge, ends up in Grace’s hands with a little help from Sarah. With its gentle guidance, Grace’s eyes are opened to the handsome, struggling veteran who lives next door, the beauty of true friendship, and the strength to do what it takes to rescue the little town she’s unexpectedly beginning to love.

Karen Hawkins has delivered a great start to her new series. It is sweet and cozy with strong heroines and lovable secondary characters, all living in a town that comes to life with the author’s imagery. The blend of magic, love, friendship, struggles and trials is woven beautifully throughout the pages. I personally liked her style of alternating the points of view among Sarah, Grace and the next-door vet who suffers from PTSD, Trav. Although the ending comes a bit quickly, the epilogue serves to soften the blow and tie up a few loose strands. All in all, THE BOOK CHARMER is an intriguing story that will leave readers anxious for book two.