The Bookstore Family

The Once upon a Time Bookshop Stories

By: Alice Hoffman

Narrated by: Jennifer Jill Araya

New York Times bestselling author Alice Hoffman takes her sweet bookshop series to Paris with an emotional short story about chasing your dreams—and finding your passion where you least expect it.

Growing up, Violet was so busy helping others realize their dreams, she found little time to pursue her own. But five years ago, she took the chance of a lifetime, leaving the family bookshop on Brinkley’s Island, Maine, to attend culinary school in Paris. Now she’s working her dream job as a pâtissiere in an upscale Parisian restaurant—yet all she can think about is home.

Feeling unmoored, Violet finds herself still searching for something…Connection? Maybe. She hasn’t made any real friends in the city. Inspiration? Possibly. Her desserts are lovely, but they’re definitely lacking something.

After her aunt Isabel urges her to keep on looking, Violet finally gets a taste of what she’s been missing in the café at the Museum of Romantic Life. But just as life begins to come into focus, she’s abruptly called home to Maine. Like her aunt before her, Violet soon learns that family could hold the key to discovering what she truly needs.

©2025 by Property Of, Inc. (P)2025 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Love is always there!

a. good story to always remember Love is always there. Keep your eyes & heart open.

All about love

Liked the story and characters in the book. The narrator was really convincing. Loved it.

Get your tissue!

I love reading these sweet stories about this lovely family, but this had me so emotional and left me sad.

Loved!!

All 3 books were really good! Highly recommend. Cute little stories perfect for listening. Wishing for more really.

Love

Beautiful short story of love and loss, reminding us there is always time for love.