Book Review - Lost For Words by Stephanie Butland

Trigger alert - the book is based on domestic violence and mental disorders.

Loveday works in a bookshop named Lost for Words which is owned by larger-than-life Archie, whom she considers as sort of a father-figure. When she comes across a book fallen on a pavement, she sets off a series of events that make her confront herself and deal with the past that she has been avoiding all her life. 

There's mystery, there's intrigue, there's the old-fashioned romance that can be found in poetry-reading sessions. This book has a little bit of all elements that make up for a tale which is beautiful, poignant, heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once. I loved the portrayal of a dysfunctional family where every member is trying to hold on to hope and love, not wanting to face or acknowledge their inner demons. The challenges faced by people with mental disorders have been dealt with in a sensitive manner, showing both their dangerous as well as vulnerable sides. 

Loveday's inner monologue which is a constant presence in the story is intriguing, showing how her character has been shaped by her parents, how she constantly doubts and assures herself that she is not capable of being loved, how she keeps believing that she is not a people-person, and that she doesn't need anyone. Her gradual transformation from a self-declared introvert to someone who genuinely cares for the people she loves, forms the crux of the story. 

This was indeed an engrossing read and definitely deserves a place of honor in your bookshelf.