Review: 'Lost for Words' by Stephanie Butland (2017)

You can trust a book to keep your secret . . .
Loveday Cardew prefers books to people. If you look closely, you might glimpse the first lines of the novels she loves most tattooed on her skin. But there are things she'll never show you.
Fifteen years ago Loveday lost all she knew and loved in one unspeakable night. Now, she finds refuge in the unique little York bookshop where she works.
Everything is about to change for Loveday. Someone knows about her past. Someone is trying to send her a message. And she can't hide any longer.
I have to admit I hadn’t heard or read anything about ‘Lost for Words’ when I found an unexpected review copy on my doormat. However, the cover of the novel immediately got me excited, and when I realised the story is all about a female character working in a bookshop, I was definitely sold. I also loved the fact that the publisher sent me a physical review copy of this book; I hardly ever receive physical review copies anymore; it’s all about e-books these days, it seems. However, I am still one of those slightly old-fashioned people that can’t help but prefer an actual copy of a book that I can smell and hold in my hands, and if that book is actually all about books as well, then that physical copy has just even more of that special extra touch…!
Loveday Cardew has had a difficult time in her life; a difficult time she prefers to hide away from others and definitely not talk about, even though it still has its impact on whatever she does. Luckily her job entails working in a second hand book shop in York and luckily, books don’t ask questions and are really the perfect companions when you’re not the most social person. Yet, while Loveday has managed to find some people who keep an eye on her, she also continues to meet ones that do not necessarily mean well. Loveday’s life is about to change and she will be forced to finally share her secret with the world, no matter the consequences…
Wow; I love it when I already know I will really enjoy a read and it still manages to surprise me, to blow me away. ‘Lost for Words’ is a brilliant novel and I am sure any true book lovers out there, like me, will hopefully enjoy this as much as I did. Loveday is unlike any character I’ve encountered before in other books; she’s not the easiest to warm to at first, but when you discover what makes her tick you’ll fall head over heels in love with her. The book really has some great characters at its core; all of them with their own personality and touch, such as flamboyant second hand bookshop owner Archie, who always looks out for Loveday, and Nathan, a magician and poet who unexpectedly appears in Loveday’s life. I was really captivated by the different characters and the storyline and couldn’t get enough of the book, which is also why I finished it in just two sittings.
Stephanie Butland’s writing really is quite unique and managed to stand out for me. There’s a bit of quirkiness to it, and a dark element as well, and just a special touch, I don’t really know how to describe it, but I liked it. I personally found Loveday’s tendency to use books as an escape extremely relatable, and I think many readers will recognise this feeling, and I loved how the author showed that you cannot keep on running away from real life, no matter how hard you try. Yes, I really loved everything about this novel and it’s one of my favourite releases of 2017 so far. All in all, ‘Lost for Words’ is a compelling and lovely read that will warm your heart and leave you with a smile on your face. If you love books about book shops, then definitely do not miss out on this one!

Rating:9,5/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.