The Messy Lives of Book People

by Phaedra Patrick

Overview

Notes From Your Bookseller

A bookish, feel-good novel about a reclusive author, her intrepid cleaner, and an unfinished manuscript. A positively delightful escape.

The house cleaner of a famous author must carry out her employer's shocking last wish in this delightful new novel from beloved author Phaedra Patrick

Mother of two Liv Green barely scrapes by as a maid to make ends meet, often finding escape in a good book while daydreaming of becoming a writer herself. So she can't believe her luck when she lands a job housekeeping for her personal hero, megabestselling author Essie Starling, a mysterious and intimidating recluse. The last thing Liv expected was to be the only person Essie talks to, which leads to a tenuous friendship.

When Essie passes away suddenly, Liv is astonished to learn that her dying wish was for Liv to complete her final novel. But to do so Liv will have to step into Essie’s shoes. As Liv begins to write, she uncovers secrets from the past that reveal a surprising connection between the two women—one that will change Liv’s own story forever…

Don’t miss Phaedra Patrick’s uplifting new novel, The Little Italian Hotel!

Check out these other heartwarming stories from Phaedra Patrick:

• The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper
• Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone
• The Library of Lost and Found
• The Secrets of Love Story Bridge

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780778333173
Publisher:	Park Row Books
Publication date:	05/31/2022
Edition description:	Original
Pages:	336
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 1.30(d)

About the Author

Phaedra Patrick is the bestselling author of several novels, including The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, which has been translated into twenty-five languages worldwide. Her second novel, Rise and Shine Benedict Stone, was made into a Hallmark movie. An award-winning short story writer, she previously studied art and marketing and has worked as a stained glass artist, film festival organizer and communications manager. Phaedra lives in Saddleworth, UK, with her family.

Editorial Reviews

Utterly enticing. This book is packed full of gripping and giddy moments… [A] gorgeous story.” —Beth Reekles, author of Lockdown on London Lane

"Whenever I need my faith in humanity restored (which, let's face it: lately is often), I pick up a Phaedra Patrick book. The Messy Lives of Book People is no exception. Witty, relevant and delightful, with the perfect touch of mystery, this story is a salve to the soul—and I'm already looking forward to reading it again." —Colleen Oakley, USA Today bestselling author of THE INVISIBLE HUSBAND OF FRICK ISLAND

“I have consumed this book! What a masterpiece. Intriguing, moving and full of truths about writing and life. I loved it!” —Hazel Prior, author of Away with the Penguins

“The Messy Lives of Book People is the perfect book if you need a lift, or to feel better about the world. It’s a read-in-one-sitting-while-smiling kind of a story. Just lovely.” —Claire Pooley, bestselling author of The Authenticity Project

“Fans of lively fiction will be instantly drawn into the world Patrick creates with her signature charming, breezy style which is further enlivened with nods to popular literature.” —Booklist


“A feel-good story in which hearts are mended, lives find purpose, and books are the touchstones to finding life’s secrets… [a] simply delightful read.” —Library Journal, starred review

From the Publisher

Narrator Katy Sobey inhabits Liv Green, a house cleaner who dreams of becoming a writer. Sobey gives unique British voices to the characters in this novel. Essie Starling, a reclusive author who is one of Liv’s clients, has a demanding tone, even as she encourages Liv’s dream to write. When Essie dies, Liv is forced to keep it a secret, straining her marriage. But her compliant housekeeper’s voice begins to gather confidence as she assumes the role of personal assistant and rushes to complete Essie’s last manuscript while maneuvering to keep her death a secret from the public. Chloe, a journalist who is looking to uncover Essie’s secrets, sounds cloying as she seeks to identify the reasons behind Essie’s reclusive life. Minor characters are also given unique vocal personalities. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine

AUGUST 2022 - AudioFile

Narrator Katy Sobey inhabits Liv Green, a house cleaner who dreams of becoming a writer. Sobey gives unique British voices to the characters in this novel. Essie Starling, a reclusive author who is one of Liv’s clients, has a demanding tone, even as she encourages Liv’s dream to write. When Essie dies, Liv is forced to keep it a secret, straining her marriage. But her compliant housekeeper’s voice begins to gather confidence as she assumes the role of personal assistant and rushes to complete Essie’s last manuscript while maneuvering to keep her death a secret from the public. Chloe, a journalist who is looking to uncover Essie’s secrets, sounds cloying as she seeks to identify the reasons behind Essie’s reclusive life. Minor characters are also given unique vocal personalities. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine

AUGUST 2022 - AudioFile