The Book of Lost Hours

by Hayley Gelfuso
The Book of Lost Hours cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Historical Fiction
Technical
  • ID: 3013
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781668076347
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2025-08-26
  • Reviews: 3

In a WWII-era setting, a young girl finds herself trapped in the 'time space,' a vast library where books hold memories. As government agents burn memories they wish to erase, she secretly saves them, until a forbidden affair with an American CIA agent alters the course of her life. This novel blends historical and speculative elements to create a unique and captivating narrative. The story explores themes of memory, resistance, and the power of the past to shape the future, all set against the backdrop of a world where memories are tangible and precious.

Reviews
Historical Novel Society · 2025-10-16
thought-provoking 4.00

The book offers fascinating commentary on how we remember the past. The characters frequently muse on the idea of memory and its significance.

The reviewer appreciates the book's exploration of memory and the past, finding it thought-provoking and insightful. They highlight the characters' reflections on memory as a significant aspect of the story. The reviewer also praises the blend of mystery, romance, history, and magic, which adds layers to the narrative. The book's commentary on the past and its impact on the present is particularly noted.

Quick quotes

    It has mystery, romance, history, and magic.

    It also offers fascinating commentary on how we remember the past.

    The characters frequently muse on the idea that ...

FanFiAddict · 2025-08-28
engaging 4.50

The characters stood out and the plot moved at a fantastic pace. The blend of historical fiction, romance, and fantasy felt fresh and engaging.

The reviewer really enjoyed their time with this book, praising the memorable characters and the fast-paced plot. They appreciated how the story seamlessly blended historical fiction, romance, and fantasy, making it feel unique and engaging. The reviewer found the narrative compelling and the setting immersive, which kept them hooked throughout.

Quick quotes

    Ultimately I really enjoyed my time with The Book of Lost Hours.

    The characters stood out and the plot moved at a fantastic pace.

    It blends historical fiction, romance, and fantasy in a way that feels fresh and engaging.

Publishers Weekly · 2025-05-22
delightful 4.00

The blend of romance and fantasy into the twisty quest narrative is seamless. The story is packed with excitement on every page.

The reviewer highlights how the author masterfully blends elements of romance and fantasy into a twisty quest narrative. They found the story to be packed with excitement, making it a delight to read. The reviewer appreciates the seamless integration of different genres, which adds depth and intrigue to the plot. The narrative's pacing and the way it keeps the reader engaged are particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    Gelfuso seamlessly blends elements of romance and fantasy into the twisty quest narrative.

    It's a delight.

    It packs excitement into every page.

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