City of Books: A Novel by Nicole Meier

Jo Waterstone possesses an extraordinary talent for recommending the perfect book for every reader. After decades at Bruebaker’s Books, this skill is second nature to her. The bookstore's vibrant atmosphere, with its bustling customers and enthusiastic staff, has become the cornerstone of her life. Jo considers it the best job she has ever had.

Everything changes when the store's elderly owner, Mr. Bruebaker, suffers a stroke. Suddenly, Jo's ideal job is at risk. Mr. Bruebaker's daughters, along with the bookstore’s cold-hearted CEO, believe it's time to shut the doors for good. They order Jo to close up shop. Faced with the loss of the institution that has defined her life, Jo decides she cannot comply. Instead, she takes a bold stand: she barricades herself in the store with a handful of loyal staff members, hoping to delay the closure until Mr. Bruebaker can recover and voice his own wishes.

Life inside the bookstore reveals its own kind of magic. The quiet hours among the shelves force Jo to reflect deeply on the choices she has made. As the days pass, supporters and detractors alike begin to weigh in on Jo's defiance, each bringing their own perspectives to the unfolding drama.

Amidst the rising tension, Jo must confront the fundamental question of what truly matters to her. Is it the beloved bookstore, with its rich history and community significance, or something deeper within herself? In the end, Jo will need to determine what is worth fighting for and what sacrifices she is willing to make to preserve what she loves most. ❤️📚❤️