The Invisible Hour

A Novel

By: Alice Hoffman

Narrated by: Jessie Mueller

The latest New York Times bestseller from beloved author Alice Hoffman celebrates the enduring magic of books and is a “wonderful story of love and growth” (Stephen King).

One June day when Mia Jacob can no longer see a way to survive, the power of words saves her. The Scarlet Letter was written almost two hundred years earlier, but it seems to tell the story of Mia’s mother, Ivy, and their life inside the Community—an oppressive cult in western Massachusetts where contact with the outside world is forbidden. But how could this be? How could Nathaniel Hawthorne have so perfectly captured the pain and loss that Mia carries inside her?

Through a journey of heartbreak, love, and time, Mia must abandon the rules she was raised with at the Community. As she does, she realizes that reading can transport you to other worlds or bring them to you, and that readers and writers affect one another in mysterious ways. She learns that time is more fluid than she can imagine, and that love is stronger than any chains that bind you.

As a girl Mia fell in love with a book. Now as a young woman she falls in love with a brilliant writer as she makes her way back in time. But what if Nathaniel Hawthorne never wrote The Scarlet Letter? And what if Mia Jacob never found it on the day she planned to die?

From “the reigning queen of magical realism” (Kristin Hannah, New York Times bestselling author), this is the story of one woman’s dream. For a little while it came true.

Critic reviews

"Mueller expertly delivers a unique performance. Mia is depicted as a complex character full of intrigue as she navigates her way through a compelling story. Mueller offers the right cadence and tone for this reflective novel. Her performance will transport listeners back in time."

An exquisite story about love and libraries.

Another beautifully written and performed story. It took me on a journey I didn't know I needed to take and I am changed by it. I couldn't stop listening once I started and at the same time, I didn't want it to end.

Well, That Was Unexpected!

Loved this book. The second half was an interesting surprise. Now, I want to know a lot more about Nathaniel Hawthorne.

plot twist and political commentary not needed

I was enjoying the story, the narrator was very good. the plot twist and political commentary almost ruined this for me. I lost interest

Interesting story

I enjoy all of Alice Hoffman’s books and had been looking forward to this one. The story is good with a back flip that feels unfinished so maybe there’s more coming in the future. I found the narrator’s performance a bit on the monotone side and somewhat depressing yet not a slog. As others have stated here my interest in Nathaniel Hawthorne is piqued and I’m finally going to read him. If you’re a fan of Alice Hoffman give this book a read.

A story of love, of mothers and daughters

This is such a good book. A lovely tale of how far off path we can go and still find our way to love.