#the book of doors

[bookishlyvintage]

Pub Day: The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

#pub day #the book of doors #gareth brown #five stars #good books #book about books #fantasy #reading #magic #bookblr #booklr #book feature #book aesthetic #bookstagram #new books

[theinquisitxor]

April 2024 Reading Wrap Up

I read 6 books in April, which is honestly more than I thought I would get to at the beginning of this month. April's are historically slow reading months for me, and while this was another slower month, I'm happy with what I read. Audiobooks really saved me this month! I read 2 fantasy books, 3 nonfiction (who am I?) and 1 literary fiction.

1.The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown (3.5/5 stars) This was an anticipated new release for me, and I was very intrigued by the premise. This was enjoyable, but there were some things I didn't really care for. This was engaging and easy to read, and if you liked The Cartographers or The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, I think you'd like this. Adult low fantasy

2.The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder by David Grann (4/5 stars) I really enjoy survival stories and seafaring stories, so I knew I was going to like this. The audiobook was great, and I liked how this was a shorter nonfiction. I'm not sure how much I like the narrative nonfiction that Grann writes in. Either way, this was a super engaging and entertaining read. Nonfiction audiobook

3.Atomic Habits by James Clear. I was not planning on reading this book in April, but I randomly go interested in it. Overall enjoyable, and interesting to see how we structure our lives around habits.

4.Who Cooked the Last Supper: The Women's History of the World by Rosalind Miles (4/5 stars) I read this 80s feminist nonfiction on audio, and while this could get pessimistic and difficult, I found it to be an engaging read with flashes of humor throughout. I would be interested to see what this book would be like published in the 2020s vs the 1980s. Nonfiction audiobook

5.The Bloody Throne (Hostage of Empire 3) by SC Emmett (5/5 stars) This was the fantastic conclusion to one of my favorite new series. Everything came together in this book and delivered an ending well worth the series. I wasn't sure how the series would end, but it was satisfying and bittersweet. I'm going to be talking about this series for a while. Adult fantasy

6. The Wall by Marlen Haushofer (4.5/5 stars) This is a translated dystopian fiction book about a women who is stuck behind a wall while the rest of the world as ended. She only has a cat, dog, and cow as her companions. She must learn to survive and cope with loneliness. I deeply enjoyed this novel, and found many passages that really stuck with me. Parts of this book got me very emotional.

That's it for April! I'm hoping for a strong reading month this May and summer!

May TBR:

The Familiar by Lehigh Bardugo

The Winners (Beartown 3) by Fredrik Backman

The Language of Trees: A rewilding of literature and landscape

Desert Solitare by Edward Abby

Brave the Wild River (nonfiction audiobook)

The Hedgewitch of Fox Hall by Ana Bright

Song of the Huntress by Lucy Holland

The Witch Collector by Charissa Weaks (my Random TBR Pick for May)

#reading wrap up #april 2024 reading wrap up #the book of doors #gareth brown #the wager #who cooked the last supper #rosalind miles #the bloody throne #hostage of empire #SC Emmett #the wall marlen haushofer #my post

[rhetoricandlogic]

THE BOOK OF DOORS by Gareth Brown

RELEASE DATE: Feb. 13, 2024

A debut novel about a bookseller who discovers the real power of books—if they’re magic.

When an elderly customer dies at Manhattan’s Kellner Books, Cassie Andrews finds herself in an inexplicable situation. In Mr. John Webber’s possession is a small, leather-bound book in a language Cassie doesn’t recognize. There are a few lines in English: “This is the Book of Doors. Hold it in your hand, and any door is every door.” And then: “Cassie, This book is for you, a gift in thanks for your kindness.” Cassie shows the book to her roommate, Izzy, who’s wary. And yet, when Cassie thinks of a door she once saw on vacation in Venice, that door opens for her. Naturally, there are people who want this powerful book, and soon enough the underworld of rare book collectors is buzzing.

Drummond Fox, known as the Librarian, happens upon Cassie using the Book of Doors, thanks to his own Book of Luck. But while Drummond seeks to protect books like Cassie’s, there are others—notably, someone known only as “the woman”—who seek to use them for evil. Drummond is eager to show Cassie the danger she’s in by revealing the full potential of the Book of Doors: “You can open a door to the past….That’s why people will want your book.” What follows is a multilayered exploration of how the book can influence past, present, and future, and how individual choices can have unimaginable rippling effects. Fans of books like Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore will love this world, though by the end Brown has moved from his initial focus on magical books toward a case study of the rules of time travel. One unexpected aspect is the gory depiction of torture at the hands of “the woman” and the books she possesses. These scenes are jarringly at odds with the initial tone of wonderment, but if you stick with it, you’ll reach a conclusion that’s both disorienting and deeply satisfying. A whirlwind journey that opens doors into other worlds but also into the heart of the human experience.

#Gareth Brown #The Book of Doors #mahreviews #long post

[the-book-32]

Unlocking Worlds: A Journey through "The Book of Doors" by Gareth Brown

 Have you ever dreamt of escaping the ordinary, of stepping through a doorway and finding yourself in a world unlike anything you've ever known? Imagine bustling marketplaces teeming with fantastical creatures, or ancient libraries where forgotten secrets whisper from dusty shelves. If such dreams ignite your imagination, then prepare to be enthralled by Gareth Brown's captivating debut novel, "The Book of Doors." This enchanting tale throws open the portal to a universe brimming with magic, adventure, and the power of human connection.

A New York Adventure Begins in a Familiar Setting

Our story unfolds in the seemingly ordinary setting of a New York City bookstore. Cassie Andrews, a young woman with a well-worn copy of "Pride and Prejudice" perpetually tucked under her arm, finds her world turned upside down when a beloved customer collapses in the store. In his final act, he leaves her a peculiar gift – a leather-bound enigma titled "The Book of Doors." Curiosity burning bright, Cassie delves into the book, unaware of the extraordinary power it holds. Little does she know, "The Book of Doors" isn't just a collection of words; it's a portal, capable of transporting its owner to any world imaginable.

Friendship Forged in Extraordinary Journeys

Cassie's life takes a thrilling turn as she discovers the book's magic. With a gasp and a swirl of color, the first journey begins. But where Cassie might have embarked on this solo adventure in a book, Brown wisely introduces Izzy, Cassie's witty and fiercely loyal best friend. Their bond forms the backbone of the story, reminding us that even the most fantastical adventures are best shared with those we love. Together, they become explorers of the extraordinary, their laughter echoing through the fantastical realms unlocked by the book.

From Bustling Markets to Underwater Cities

Brown masterfully paints a vivid tapestry of these fantastical worlds. Each destination is distinct and richly detailed, a testament to his creative vision. Imagine the bustling markets of Asgard, where Norse gods mingle with curious travelers amidst stalls overflowing with enchanted trinkets and exotic wares. Or picture the serene underwater city of Atlantis, where bioluminescent jellyfish illuminate the coral-encrusted streets and merfolk glide effortlessly through shimmering currents. The descriptions are so evocative, you can almost smell the salty spray in Asgard or hear the gentle gurgle of air bubbles rising from the depths of Atlantis. 

Facing Villainy and the Value of Loyalty

But lurking in the shadows are those who covet the Book of Doors for their own nefarious purposes. A nameless evil seeks to exploit the book's power, threatening the very fabric of reality. As Cassie and Izzy face off against these sinister forces, they learn that true strength lies not just in wielding magic, but in the unshakeable loyalty they share. The bonds of friendship become their greatest weapon, reminding us that even the most formidable foe can be overcome through courage and unwavering support.

Beyond the Adventure: A Look at Humanity

While the fantastical elements are undeniably captivating, the true heart of the story lies in its exploration of human connection. Cassie's journey is not just about discovering new worlds; it's about confronting her own fears and insecurities. As she navigates the challenges of each realm, she grapples with self-doubt and grief, learning to overcome adversity and embrace her own resilience. We see this theme reflected in Izzy's unwavering support, a constant source of encouragement and strength. Their friendship becomes a beacon of warmth and understanding amidst the fantastical chaos, reminding us of the importance of human connection in even the most extraordinary circumstances.

A Debut Filled with Promise

"The Book of Doors" is a debut novel that bursts onto the scene with a captivating narrative and a healthy dose of humor. Brown's writing is engaging and witty, drawing readers into the story with his vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. The plot is fast-paced and full of surprises, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. The novel leaves us with a lingering sense of wonder, eager to see what fantastical worlds Brown will unlock for us next.

A Glimpse into the Author's World

Gareth Brown, the mastermind behind "The Book of Doors," is a relatively new voice in the world of fantasy fiction. While details about his background are somewhat limited, his debut novel speaks volumes about his creative talent and his love for weaving fantastical tales. "The Book of Doors" is a testament to his ability to build immersive worlds and craft relatable characters, leaving readers yearning for more.

A Final Invitation

So, if you're looking for a book that will transport you to another world, make you laugh out loud, and leave you pondering the power of human connection, then "The Book of Doors" is a must-read. Buckle up, grab your favorite

#the book of doors #the book of doors book review #the book of doors by gareth brown #doors #book #book of doors #books #the book of doors review #the book of doors explained #the doors of stone #book of doors divination #doors of stone #the books of doors divination deck unboxing #doors of perception #name of the wind book 3 #the name of the wind book #doors book #doors game book #gamebook doors #book reviews #roblox doors #thousand of doors #book of mario

[nevinslibrary]

Weird & Wonderful Wednesday

Ooh, ooh, a notebook that can transport you to other realms. Very cool. I mean, also, uh oh, but, really cool too.

Cassie works at a bookstore. And, when one of her favourite customers dies right in front of her, and, she has the notebook that he was reading right before he died, well, her life changes forever. Suddenly she has to figure out who to trust (frumpled Scottish guy?) and, also, ya know, not to mention not die. Because, of course, with a powerful book, others with not so great motivations, want that power and will go to any length to get it.

This book drew me right in, there’s a book store, there’s a bit of sci-fi/fantasy, there’s a librarian. Such a fun read.

You may like this book If you Liked: The Cartographers by Peng Shepherd, The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa, or The Unlikely Escape of Uriah Heep by H.G. Parry

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

#weirdandwonderfulwednesday #nmlRA #nevins memorial library #the book of doors #gareth brown

[mylifeinfiction]

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

She wasn't going to turn her back on magic and impossibility.

I ended up enjoying The Book of Doors quite a bit despite its many irksome flaws. Gareth Brown's debut novel suffers the same frustrating problems we so often see in debuts. Its clunky narrative mechanics, uneven character development, and unfocused world-building kept me from really getting into this one for far too long given the fact that it's premise is so ridiculously far up my alley.

However, once those hurdles are cleared, we're given more of the special books, and the endgame begins to come into focus, we're given an entertaining final third that brings creatively violent action together with character moments that felt true and some interesting ideas that tie the books themes together rather effectively. It's nothing earth-shattering, and it doesn't reinvent the wheel (if it's trying to, it's a resounding failure), but once you get past the awkwardness of the first third's storytelling, you get an exciting adventure that shows a playful understanding of the magic of books.

7/10

-Timothy Patrick Boyer.

#booklr #book review #the book of doors #gareth brown #new books #fantasy books #2024 books #debut books #debut novels #library book #books #readers of tumblr #reading #fiction #book reviews #books & libraries #2024

[alegriavida]

The Book of Doors || Gareth Brown

This is the Book of Doors. Hold it in your hand, and any door is every door.

#the book of doors #gareth brown #aesthetic #mood board #reading #books

[a-skirmish-of-wit-and-lit]

Book Review: The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

Cassie Andrews, who works in a bookshop in New York City, comes across The Book of Doors one day after one of her favorite customers dies in front of her. As fate would have it, this book not only has a note inside that says it belongs to her now but it is also one of a kind in that it allows her to open doors, taking her wherever and whenever she wants to go.

Naturally, because of the book's magical properties, it soon puts Cassie and her best friend, Izzy, in danger. Booksellers, collectors, librarians, and those who want to use to the book for more nefarious means, begin to pursue them in an effort to get their hands on this extraordinary book and others like it. To protect her life, and keep the book out of evil hands, Cassie embarks on a journey that involves new and old connections, multiple timelines, and the magic of imagination.

Like many readers, portal novels have always been a draw for me. There's something inherently enchanting about a book about books that is imbued with magic, that opens and takes characters to faraway places in space and time, showing them possibilities beyond their wildest imagination, and for that reason, I was so excited to get my hands on this. However, while the premise was phenomenal, the plot was rickety. Disjointed. And the characters fell flat. Cassie's relationships with Mr. Webber, Drummond, and Izzy, were sweet, and had touching moments, but I felt like they were lacking in the depth I had hoped to find. In addition to that, the woman's villainy was too one-note for my taste.

I'm sure others may find much to love and dazzle in this story, but it didn't quite work for me. Not my cup of tea.

Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC in exchange for my review.

2/5 stars

**Follow me on Goodreads

#ashlee bree's book reviews #the book of doors #gareth brown #arcs #fantasy #magic #read january 2024 #published february 2024 #bookblr #booklr #book reviews

[pipperoni32-blog]

The Book of Doors

by Gareth Brown / 5 stars

Wow. Ok, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting with this book. It could have so easily been several different things. A whimsical journey as Cassie found a magic book that allowed her to travel anywhere. It would have worked as a story of just that - Cassie's adventures, traveling the world.

Instead, what we find is so much more. Yes, Cassie does find a magical book, The Book Of Doors, that allows her to travel to any place she can imagine - as long as she can see the door, the place, then all she needs is a hand on the book, and a door. While at first Cassie uses the book - despite caution from her friend, Izzy - to travel to places she'd been before in Europe, she doesn't have grander plans for it. However, the Book of Doors is something people have been searching for, and not all of them are willing to pay to get it.

Cassie finds herself thrown into a world of magic books that can do wonderous and horrible things, depending on the user. While there are some who value the books for the wonder they can bring, there are others who want them for the power they can give them. Or simply to possess them, to keep others from having them.

As different parties seek these magic books and are brought together, we're taken through the history of these books and how they came to be. How they can change the world, and the lives they touch.

This books gives a whole new meaning to book lovers, and fictional libraries you want to visit!

I received an ARC from the publishers through NetGalley, but thankfully this book is out now, so you'll be able to read it any time! Definitely one I see myself reading again, and hoping that there will be more to come!

#booklr #book review #netgalley #book arcs #the book of doors #gareth brown

[catedwrites]

he Book of Doors is an admirable debut, with excellent writing and solid pacing. It is engaging, with a good balance of description and action to keep readers glued to the page. While the plot and ideas were fascinating, weaving between the horrific and the wondrous, I struggled to connect with any of the main characters; they felt less like real people and more like plot devices for large sections of the book. I will ultimately be happy when Gareth Brown publishes more. There’s a lot of promise in his writing that I look forward to. Thank you to Netfalley and William Morrow for the ebook ARC. All options are mine alone.

#the queue arrives without warning #miss cait reviews #books #book review #fantasy #gareth brown #the book of doors

[bookishlyvintage]

Quarter One Favorites:

The Fury, Alex Michaelides The Book of Doors, Gareth Brown The Last Lost Girl, Casey L Bond The Death of Jane Lawrence, Cailtin Starling

#quarter one #books #favorites #five stars #the fury #the book of doors #the last lost girl #the death of jane lawrence #alex michaelides #gareth brown #casey l bond #caitlin starling #fantasy #ya fantasy #thriller #bookblr #booklr #book stack #stack challenge #reading

[bookliteratibookreviews]

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bantam (15 Feb. 2024)Language ‏ : ‎ EnglishHardcover ‏ : ‎ 416 pagesISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1787637247ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1787637245 Book Blurb Because some doors should never be opened. New York bookseller Cassie Andrews is not sure what she’s doing with her life. She lives quietly, sharing an apartment with her best friend, Izzy. Then a favourite customer gives her an old book. Full of…

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#Bantam Books #Book Blogger #Book Recommendation #Book review #Fantasy #Folklore #Gareth Brown #Magic #Secrets #Supernatural #Suspense #The Book of Doors #thriller

[pagesandpothos]

The Book of Doors

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown is a portal fantasy and a book about books, two of my absolute favorite sub-genres of low fantasy. It's charming, sometimes dark, emotional, magical, and surprising.

First, the plot of The Book of Doors is well-paced and exciting. The chapters are short and easy to fly through. Plus, all the various characters and locations keep the story moving, so that I never felt as if the story had stalled or gotten dull. I enjoy the idea of magic books and I found the concept of them potentially being used as weapons to be fascinating. The story is also full of lots of twists and turns and it managed to surprise me a few times!

The main characters are interesting and there are several relationships - both friendships and potentially romantic - that I genuinely love. The main character, Cassie, has several relationships that I found to be especially touching. Her friendship with her best friend, Izzy, was the book's highlight for me. I also enjoyed her relationships with Drummond and Mr. Webber. There are also three scenes of her with another character, who I won't name for spoilers, that I found to be truly moving and emotional.

My only complaint about the book is that the villains sometimes feel a little too one-dimensional. Hugo Barbary, in particular, feels almost cartoonishly evil at times. The Woman also feels a little flat, but since she's used sparingly and her scenes all portray what a truly evil character she is, it ends up working well within the story.

The Book of Doors is a classic story of good vs. evil that I found to be a very enjoyable read. I recommend it to anyone who loves portal fantasies, books about books, and last year's Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Törzs!

Tags for this book: low fantasy, urban fantasy, books about books, magic, portal fantasy, time travel

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown comes out on February 13th!

#The Book of Doors #netgalley #book review #book recs #arc review #best of 2024 #books #gareth brown

[purplebunnyreads]

🖌️The Book of Doors🖌️ by Gareth Brown

I have so many thoughts about this book, though I can't say most of them because of spoilers.

The plot was extremely well thought out. It was very complex, and there were so many twists and turns. It felt like every five seconds there was another reveal.

And everything came full circle in the end, with not a single loose end left untied. And the DETAILS you don't realize are important and then they ARE!! I want to reread it and see all of the little things I missed reading it for the first time.

As for the characters, I wasn't really attached to any of them aside from Mr. Webber, whom I absolutely adored. I also wish Azaki had more page time.

I cried multiple times reading this, and there were several more instances where I wanted to. Again, I can't say why because spoilers, but just know that I was quietly sobbing for the last two chapters, and proceeded to sit and stare at the wall with tears running down my face for the next several minutes after I finished it.

This was a really fun read. 10/10 recommend, especially if you're looking for an urban fantasy with lots of twists and turns and found family vibes.

Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the e-arc!

#book review #bookblr #netgalley #the book of doors #urban fantasy #found family?

[beckysbook5]

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown - ARC Review!

If you could open a door to anywhere, where would you go? In New York City, bookseller Cassie Andrews is living an unassuming life when she is given a gift by a favourite customer. It’s a book – an unusual book, full of strange writing and mysterious drawings. And at the very front there is a handwritten message to Cassie, telling her that this is the Book of Doors, and that any door is every…

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#Book review #The Book of Doors

[loveliveforward]

Top 10 Books of 2023

I read over 100 books in 2023 (111 to be exact), and the quality ranged from DNF to 11/10! Here were my top ten favorite books that I read last year, in no particular order. I didn’t include ratings because it’s safe to say they were all 5 star reads! (Note: some of these were released before 2023 and a few are being released in 2024, but I’m counting them!) Dark Matter – Blake Crouch This was…

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#2023 #2024 books #all the sinners bleed #book review #bye baby #dark matter #in the lives of puppets #mad honey #one true loves #the book of doors #the last one #the quiet tenant #top 10 books #yearly recap #yellowface