The Croatian Island Library by Eva Glyn

 

5 STARS!

ABOUT THE BOOK -

Where books are borrowed, and friendships are forged…

When her beloved grandfather dies, Ana Meštrović buys a catamaran in his memory, which she names Dida Krila – Grandad’s Wings.

For the summer months, it will be transformed into a travelling library, delivering books to children living across the Croatian islands.

Joined by crew members Natali, a young mechanic afraid of her own shadow, and Lloyd, an older widower who needs a fresh start, the newly-formed trio all have their own reasons for needing the floating library to be a success.

Embarking on an adventure that will change them for good, they each discover that a new chapter is only a boat ride away…

Purchase - https://mybook.to/CroatianIslandLibrary

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Eva Glyn writes escapist relationship-driven fiction with a kernel of truth at its heart. She loves to travel and finds inspiration in beautiful places and the stories they hide.

Set mainly in Croatia, her contemporary stories are more about friendship than romance, the coming together of people through shared interests, and the opportunity to make fresh starts in their lives. A love of books is a common theme too, so her publisher, One More Chapter, has christened them the Bookish Escapes collection which currently includes The Dubrovnik Book Club, and The Santorini Writing Retreat, with The Croatian Island Library to be published in January 2026.

In addition Eva has written two Second World War dual timeline romances, An Island of Secrets and The Collaborator’s Daughter, and a new beginnings novel entitled The Olive Grove. All are set in Croatian, a country she loves.

Although she considers herself Welsh, Eva lives in Cornwall with the man she met and fell in love with more than thirty years ago. She also writes as Jane Cable.

MY THOUGHTS -

What a truly delightful story!

I ended up listening to the Audible version because I wasn’t sure I’d finish the book in time, and I’m so glad I did. The narration was excellent and added so much to the story. Honestly, I don’t think the story would have felt quite the same if I had read it instead. In this case, I highly recommend the audiobook.

The story follows three complete strangers who come together for work aboard a “library boat” that travels between the small islands of Croatia, delivering books. What a fantastic idea! I couldn’t help but think how amazing it would be to have a job like that—bringing stories to remote islands by boat.

It was wonderful to see these three strangers share their deepest secrets, and form fast, meaningful friendships. Through their time together, they help each other heal in unexpected ways. This book left me satisfied, but also wanting to know more about their futures.

A wonderful, heartfelt story that I highly recommend! This was my first by this author but I would definitely read more.

 I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources -  Thank You!!