Author Cesca Major called THE BOOK SWAP “a love letter to books and reading.” There are no truer words. For all of my mildly mixed feelings about this debut contemporary romance, it truly is a love letter to books and reading.

THE BOOK SWAP is narrated by the story’s two main characters, Erin and James. In an impulsive moment, Erin decides to declutter her space, gathering up items that she never even unpacked from her latest move. She fills a roller suitcase with books and walks to the little free library in her London neighborhood. It’s only after returning home after a memorial for her best friend that Erin realizes what she did: drop off her beloved copy of To Kill a Mockingbird at the community library. It isn’t just the loss of a favorite book that she has meticulously annotated; it’s the postcard from her best friend that was tucked inside. Heartbroken, Erin is stunned to find the book returned to the library a few days later–along with more notes in the margins and an invitation to “meet up” in another book.

So begins a unique correspondence between Erin and James. The one-time childhood friends haven’t spoken in years—and, to be fair, they don’t know they are speaking through this book exchange either—at least not at first. Through the books, notes in the margins, and questions left on the endpapers, Erin and James find a connection that leads each of them to understanding, healing, and a little bit of hope.

I loved so much about THE BOOK SWAP. My one complaint is a strong one, but not one that derailed my enjoyment. By the halfway point of the novel, Erin’s self-centeredness began to wear and grate on my nerves. Everything was about her, without question or preamble. She was a constant victim. Thankfully, Erin’s sister was there as a counterbalance and called her on her behavior.

In contrast, James is the quintessential Good Guy. Always giving, always forgiving, especially where Erin is concerned. As I read more and more about his life, his family, and his past, I started to think that he was way too good for Erin. I early shouted a cheer out loud when he finally–FINALLY!– called her out.

Overall, I really enjoyed the book and was satisfied by its conclusion. I’d like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.