The Bookstore Family (The Once Upon a Time Bookshop Stories)

Alice Hoffman's short story follows Violet, who grew up prioritizing others' dreams while neglecting her own. Five years ago, she left her family's bookshop on Brinkley's Island, Maine, to attend culinary school in Paris. She now works as a pâtissiere at an upscale Parisian restaurant, her dream job—yet she finds herself thinking constantly of home. In Paris, Violet feels disconnected. She has made few real friends, and while her desserts are well-crafted, something feels missing. Her aunt Isabel encourages her to continue searching. At a café in the Museum of Romantic Life, Violet begins to find what she's been seeking. However, she is suddenly called back to Maine. Returning home, Violet discovers that family may hold the answer to what she truly needs.