Review of 'The Secret Library' by Amanda James

Review of 'The Secret Library' by Amanda James

Release date: June 4, 2026

Publisher: One More Chapter

REVIEW

I have read and enjoyed a number of magical realism and romance books by Amanda James so I knew this would be fun, magical and inspiring. Of course any title with library or bookshop grabs my attention as these are two of my favourite places! Considering this was a story about books and a secret library that had power—well it is not easy to see I was easily persuaded.

The Secret Library is quite a feast of possibilities, brimming with hope and dreams that come true. Lucy Thomas is a book editor and she has just got the shock of her life. At the hearing of her grandmother’s will, she discovers she has inherited her grand home. She is first put to a unique test and passes. From this moment on, we know there are going to be some very unusual things happening in this story. Of course, we don’t know initially how special this library is but we witness it quickly when Lucy is tasked by her grandmother to edit some unfinished manuscripts she has left behind in her library. As we gradually get to know Lucy and learn about her late grandmother, we realise they share some very unique characteristics and interests.

The setting of the novel is quite atmospheric and on this windswept Cornish coast, the dance of lights spark imaginations. The box of unfinished stories takes on quite the life when Lucy begins to edit these forgotten tales—to fulfil her grandmother’s wishes. But little do we know (including Lucy) what amazing things will happen to the authors she encounters and the characters they create.

During this discovery, Lucy begins dating again but is hesitant at first due to previous romantic disasters. And sadly one of the men she encounters is not quite what he seems. But through various promptings that come about during her editing of manuscripts, she discovers a new writer with a bizarre connection to the past. She will be drawn to him in a way like no other. I know I am talking in riddles but I don’t want to give anything away as there are a number of surprises readers will enjoy.

Lucy’s best friend, Claude, is an important support person for her even though Lucy cannot share her secrets about the library. They have some brilliant discussions, though, about books and life. Claude starts out as more of a realist saying we cannot bury our heads in the sand. (But something happens to her that will alter her views as far as romance is concerned.) But Lucy is the dreamer who wishes to see more uplifting fiction that allows people to be transported to somewhere special, to escape the frustrations of life—even if only for a short while. She seeks manuscripts of originality, individuality and magic—that make readers feel like they are kids again. To foster the belief, there is hope.

The Secret Library makes some strong statements about how much we need positive fiction in our lives. It also highlights the responsibilities authors have but also the support and encouragement they need to keep writing. Books can heal, influence, help and free hearts. Lucy’s job is not only to find those story diamonds in the rough and help polish the work but to also be an encourager of writers. The publishing journey is a tough one where lots of self-doubt can surface. Writers need support and kind words—to know they are on the right track. And if they are not, a bit of gentle guidance is appreciated.

The characters in this story manage to do the impossible. And Lucy quotes Mary Poppins: ‘Everything is possible, even the impossible.’ This is the heartbeat of the story. All the things that transpire in Lucy’s domain, under the influence of her library, grandmother and even grandfather, are quite special. I enjoyed the journey, the revelations, the surprises, the drama, the romance, the magic and mystery. It’s an imaginatively written story that book lovers everywhere will enjoy. Yes, suspend belief as that is what this story is about. Its magical realism qualities are here. We get a detailed picture of the real world but it is infused with the supernatural, the magical and divine. This novel invites us to take a ride on the magic carpet! Be a child again and believe. 4.5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a review copy.