The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis

Ashlyn Greer, a rare-book dealer, discovers a pair of beautifully bound volumes with no trace of publication. Each book bears startling incriminations and tells conflicting sides of a tragic romance between Hemi and Belle. With her unique gift to feel echoes of the books’ previous owners, Ashlyn becomes obsessed with solving the decades-old literary mystery and bringing closure to the doomed lovers’ tale. Along the way, she uncovers broken promises and unforgivable betrayals, leading to unfinished chapters in her own life.

Book review of The Echo of Old Books

The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis is a beautifully written novel that follows Ashlyn Greer’s journey of discovery as she uncovers the story of Belle and Hemi. It is a heart-wrenching love story about second chances, redemption, and forgiveness. Ashlyn, a rare-book dealer, finds two handwritten novels that tell conflicting sides of the same love story. Ashlyn is determined to uncover the mystery of the star-crossed lovers’ identity and what caused their passionate affair to fall apart. Along with Ethan, the books’ former caretaker, they embark on a quest to discover the truth about Belle and Hemi.

What makes this book so special is the way Barbara Davis weaves the love story with magic and emotions that stay with you long after you finish the book. The pacing of the book is perfect, and the twists and turns keep you engaged throughout. I love how the author was able to surprise me with the ending even though I thought I knew what was coming. There are many touching moments in the book that will leave you feeling emotional, from sad tears to happy tears, relieved tears to anxious tears.

The author’s use of psychometry, the ability to read the residual psychic energy left on objects, is a unique and interesting concept that adds another layer of depth to the story. The book’s premise of books having echoes, of feelings coming from their owners’ lives, is a beautiful idea that makes you think about the stories behind the books we read.

The characters in the book are real and raw, and you can’t help but get invested in their lives. Ashlyn is a relatable character who is dealing with her own heartbreak and hurtful memories. Her relationship with Ethan is heartwarming and adds a touch of romance to the story. Marian, one of the relatives of the story’s owner, is another character who is dealing with her own past, and her journey to healing is just as touching as Ashlyn’s.

While the book has a slow start, it is worth sticking with it as the pace picks up, and the story becomes more engrossing. Some parts of the book could have been explained better, but the overall story is well-written and original.

Specifications
	Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lake Union Publishing (March 28, 2023) Language ‏ : ‎ English Paperback ‏ : ‎ 443 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1542038162 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1542038164 Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1 pounds Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 1 x 8.5 inches

About Article Author

Ethan Davis

Ethan Davis combines his passion for literature with another of his great hobbies: climbing. There is never a mountain high enough for him... nor a book he doesn't want to read, especially if it's a good crime thriller.