I have read several of Viola Shipman novels, and always enjoy the setting in my home state with places that are very familiar and that I have very warm memories of visiting. The Page Turner takes place mostly at Emma Page's grandmother's home in South Haven, a favorite vacation spot for my family, which lent an almost nostalgic feel to the novel. It's always fun to read the 'name-dropping' about a familiar place, and this one made me hungry for Clementines' onion rings!

As an avid reader, I loved the insider's look at the publishing industry, how deals are made and the snobbery of some publishers and writers about 'chick-lit'. The venting feels a bit self-serving at times, as the author writes primarily the novels that are dismissed by Emma's parents as trivial. I get it, but me thinks thou dost protest too much! I struggled a bit with the pacing and the story really didn't capture my interest until about the 50% mark. I also didn't really buy into the revenge motivation and plot, I just kept thinking that there was no way Emma would agree to do it, and if she did, it would never work anyway.

Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Harlequin Audio for the digital and audio ARCs of The Page Turner by Viola Shipman. The opinions in this review are my own.

The Page Turner is a heartfelt story about chasing dreams, family expectations, and self-discovery. The book follows Emma, an aspiring author trying to carve out her own path under the shadow of her publishing powerhouse parents and her already-successful sister. When she uncovers a hidden secret about her grandmother, Emma begins to question whether the dream she's been chasing is truly her own.

What I enjoyed most was the behind-the-scenes look at the writing and publishing world—it felt authentic and engaging. The relationship between Emma and her sister was also a highlight, offering warmth and emotional depth.

That said, the book did feel slow at times, and I found the dialogue to be overwritten and repetitive in parts, which pulled me out of the story. While the plot has heart, it was fairly predictable and lacked the spark to make it truly stand out.

Overall, The Page Turner was a fine read with moments of insight and emotion, but it didn’t quite leave a lasting impression. A solid 3-star story for those who enjoy family-driven fiction and books about books.

Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

2.5 - "It's just sad that the world loves to destroy the unique when it's the only thing we have going that makes it so special."

The synopsis for this book is intriguing with Emma, a recent graduate, trying to find her place in the world while dealing with her author parents and influencer sister. Her parents own a publishing house, The Mighty Pages, but they only publish books they deem serious and literary, which excludes romance and anything else considered frivolous. As Emma navigates her future while still mourning the loss of her grandmother, she makes a shocking discovery in her grandmother's things and finds out that someone wants to destroy her parents' business. She is put in the middle of what feels like an impossible situation until she comes up with a plan.

This was a struggle to read. The prologue has nothing to do with the rest of the book and wasn't needed at all. The entire first half of the book feels like it's just there for Emma's parents and sister to make her feel bad. They're critical of everything from her personality and clothing to the books she reads. They come across as very cold and cruel, and it makes them incredibly unlikeable. Too much is happening between Emma grieving her grandmother and needing to find a job, the way her parents and sister treat her, and the new problem of Marcus Flare who wants to destroy the family's publishing house. It unfortunately reads as a story of what someone thinks a 22-year-old woman acts like. There is so much emphasis on the Bechdel test and how women are portrayed in the media, but in this book Emma's mother and sister are terrible to her and her friends go behind her back to tell her mother about her manuscript she's keeping to herself. There's zero good resolution for these issues and suddenly everything is ok.

I was frustrated early on when Emma's friends from college are nicknamed Gin and Juice with zero explanation. It comes later which makes it so confusing. It's also wild that they're so supportive of Emma and her secret romance manuscript but later it's revealed her parents knew about it because her friends told her mom. This made absolutely no sense, especially because "Juice" tells Emma to be confident and get her book published. Then there's Vivian Vandeventer, who's actually an interesting character, but then suddenly her name is abbreviated VV throughout the book and it feels so out of place. The resolution that happens with Emma and her sister comes out of nowhere. Her sister is awful to her at the beginning and they never have a real conversation that brings about their reconciliation. And it's the same with her parents.

Marcus Flare is a terrible villain and it feels so strange when this book almost becomes a thriller. He has some absolutely terrible lines that sound like they're right out of a cartoon. The scene where he feeds Emma at dinner is disgusting and creepy, and written in a way that felt icky. His purpose for blackmailing Emma and destroying her family's publishing house feels dumb and it's not well thought out. It's so connected to her grandmother which seems like the only way this story could come together. I understand writing a sleazy male character, but this was not it. He feels like a caricature instead of a realistic character.

I think without the Marcus Flare storyline, this would have been more enjoyable. I did like Emma, for the most part, and I think this would have worked better if it focused on her journey with her family. That story was more compelling and could have been more fleshed out and complete without the addition of Marcus. Because so much is going on and the book is trying to say so much, it all gets lost in the underdeveloped plot and characters. I also didn't appreciate the dig at influencers, saying that many of them are paid "for their adulation, either in cash or product." I'm sure there are some who pretend to love a book, but the vast majority of book influencers interact with provide their honest opinions and are not getting paid to say they like a book.

This was a disappointing read that had potential but tries to do and say too much so in the end it's not saying anything.

Shipman’s voice is heard throughout this novel and it refuses to let you go as you devour this book from beginning to end. Wonderful!

The Page Turner
By Viola Shipman
Release date 4.8.25

Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing for the e-ARC of this title.
The book begins with out main character, Emma, who is a recent college graduate from the University of Michigan. She is trying to find her place as she transitions into adulthood while dealing with her high-strung opinionate family members. Her Grandma Gigi had sent the family up financially after her passing allowing them to live a luxurious life. Emma, however, hopes to pave her own path as a writer and make her own living. In a family of writers, readers, and book influencers, you would think this would be easily attainable, however their negative speak, and cold personalities make it next to impossible.

My favorite part of this story is the character that is Gigi. I love how Gigi is an active part of the story while having been deceased through it all. There were so many ‘Gigi-isms’ that spoke to me. I wish I could quote some here but have to wait for the finished copy. I have been reading multiple books lately that reference the use of pseudonyms by female authors in order to ensure their safety and to be taken seriously which is both fascinating and devastating. I had no idea going into this book that it would partially be set in the town of South Haven, Michigan. I vacation here every year and enjoyed being transported back there. Some of the small local businesses that I have visited were even mentioned. I also love that book cover!
I struggled a lot with the FMC. I recognize that she is young and new to the job market, but I felt the author was trying to convey a strong young independent woman that wanted to be her own person. Yet, these toddler’esque reactions didn’t seem like they were coming from the same character. I think sassy reactions could have been written differently as to were it was more believable. This book is also full of unlikeable characters; some of which were over the top. With regards to the ended, I’m still confused as to how the ‘villian’ was able to walk away and everything smooth over in a flash. It didn’t feel complete to me.

All in all, I love books about books with a strong FMC. I wish it was more Gigi and Emma and less of the snooty self-centered family.

With classic style, Viola Shipman does it again. Pulls you in from the prologue, and weaves this enjoyable story which makes reading effortless. Whether you're losing yourself in Gigi's beach cottage nostalgic feels, or on the edge of your seat while reading of Marcus' antics, you'll love reading every page of this "Page Turner" novel. ;) Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to pre-read and review this book.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC.

Emma feels like a black sheep in her elitest family who owns/runs a publishing house The Mighty Pages. Her parents, self-proclaimed “serious” authors who mingle in highbrow social circles that look down on anything too popular or mainstream.

Emma has to hide her own romance novel that she is deciding if/when to query and trying to figure out how to get her family to understand the true motives of a seemingly sleezy author who offers to "help," the suffering publishing house.

My thoughts:
I loved the storyline surrounding Emma and her late grandmother's love for romance and lighter novels and the feeling of needing to defend what we read and that all book and all reading will touch the right person. Emma's connection to her grandmother was well done especially in contrast to the uncomfortable relationship she has with her parents and her sister.

I enjoyed the quotes from other works being used to try to drive points home; however, at times they felt "plopped" into the story and therefore a little disjointed. The side characters were great: Marcus Flare was easy to hate AND I wanted MORE Vivian Vandeventer!! (a competitor in the publishing business that Emma interviews with).

A very good book to read on a day when you are sitting around and lounging. It's a story that includes interesting characters and a good plot. I would definitely recommend!

#ThePageTurner is simply that . A real page turner . Omggg the ways I loved this book !!!! 🥰❤️😭
I was annoyed , mad , sad , all fuzzy inside ,, worried.
This book had me feeling all the feels & that's EXACTLY what a good solid book should do.
All the stars !!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ugh it's just soooo good. Everyone needs to read this even if you don't know. You do .
I'll admit I wasn't super into it until about 25% in but after that I was completely hooked . This book had my soul.

This book is definitely an example of don't judge a book by its cover . At first everyone seemed dense & snobby & honestly annoying. " Oh another rich literary family "
Yes kinda but no not really .. there's always more to a story & people than we think.
This book was poetry & EXACTLY what I needed right now.
Isn't it weird how that happens? I had no idea what this book was about before I picked it up 🙊
I honestly just liked the title & I love a book about a book but omg it's so much more than that .
Love , sisterhood, family , GIRL POWER 🤘, loyalty, yes books & the whole book world, all the good feels but also a little revenge .
I needed all that right now ❤️

Going into this book I had zero idea that Viola Shipman is really a man writing under a female name .. his grandma. 🥺 How sweet .. I just can't 😭
But honestly I don't care .. I know some have strong feelings about this issue but he's an author who writes a beautiful poetic & amazing book that after receiving this arc im buying the book when it comes out APRIL 8 2025 ( go get it 🙃 )
The authors note was so beautiful & heartfelt.
This is my first book by this author but now I want to binge them allllll !!!!
& Honestly it's refreshing for a man to hide under a women's name for a change .

Also shout-out to Gin & Juice . Those are real friend goals right there & also VV .. I want to have several drinks with this woman 🤣🤣🤣
The characters & development in this book is top notch .

‼️Again read this book . Inhale everything. It's going to be a beautiful ride

Thank you #NetGalley for another amazing arc & allowing me to find a new author @viola_shipman

This book was lovely. A true ode to family & sisterhood. I absolutely LOVE books about books & The Page Turner was such a fun look into publishing. I loved the hint of mystery, the family drama & the love of the sisters.
The audio was great as well. Thank you for letting me read this early.

If I were to cut to the chase, I would just tell you that this is a cheesy predictable fluff of a book perfect for book lovers who want a sweet escape. Don't look for deep meaning or even a cute rom-com. While this is a quick cute read, too much time is spent on Emma defending her position as a romance author within her high brow literary family. Further interruptions to the story are provided by excerpts not only from her book but also from books by a mystery person, S. I. Quaeris. (Including the very same one, twice.) This fluffed up the page count. I would have preferred a shorter book or maybe additional depth on other storylines. But, it kept me entertained on a rainy afternoon!

I love inside looks into authors lives and the backstory on publishing. While the premise of this book is intriguing, especially with the tie in with family relationships, this one just did not resonate with me like I had hoped. I did enjoy the close bonds with her grandmother GiGi, but that was about it. Thank you so much to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!

I want to extend my gratitude to @viola_shipman @netgalley and @htpbooks for the #gifted e-book, and to @harlequinbooks for the #gifted audiobook.

This was a captivating read. I was fascinated by the story's exploration of finding one’s voice, as well as the themes of sisterhood and family connection.

Emma grows up feeling like an outsider in a family that elevates serious literature above all else. Her parents, esteemed authors and publishers of The Mighty Pages, look down on popular books, while her sister, Jess, wields significant influence with her sharp critiques. Inspired by her late grandmother’s treasured summer romances, Emma sets out to pen her own love story. When she uncovers a damaging secret hidden among her Gigi’s belongings, she realizes that someone else is already on the inside, aware of the truth. Emma faces a pivotal decision: confront her parents’ egos or risk exposing The Mighty Pages, potentially shattering their legacy.

Emma’s journey, her profound connection with Gigi, and the intricate family dynamics make this story truly unforgettable. The contrast between her relationships with her parents and sister, versus the extraordinary bond she shared with her beloved grandmother, adds so much depth. Additionally, the book offers a compelling glimpse into the world of publishing.

The narrator delivered an exceptional performance, vividly bringing these characters to life. I was particularly impressed by her intonation for Emma’s parents, perfectly capturing their highbrow demeanor.

If you’re searching for a quick, immersive read that draws you in and holds your attention until the last page, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars—it's set to be published on April 8, 2025!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc and alc.

Like other reviewers have said, I was excited to read this book. However, it ended up being a bit of a letdown. I suppose I just had a hard time getting into the story and I also had a hard time connecting with the characters. I did enjoy the narrator of the audiobook though (Katherine Lin). I may be interested in reading more by Viola Shipman in the future though.

Fun behind the scenes look at the publishing industry with a strong female protagonist and an engaging family story. Wade's fans and those who love books about books will love this.

Emma’s parents run their own publishing house but sales have been declining. Emma wants to write her own novel but feels her parents would disapprove because it wouldn’t be high brow enough. So she has never discussed it with them. Her grandmother, Gigi, died recently and Emma was close to her. So we follow Emma on her journey to find strength and to find her voice.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I COULD NOT get into this story. I have read other books by this author and enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to this one. tried and tried, but I just couldn't make it happen.

“The Page Turner is a novel about how books save us, whether we are writers or readers.”

The Page Turner had a much deeper, empowering message than just the fictional story. It was intriguing, reflective, and thought provoking with the sweetest dedication, an adorable cover, and an author’s note that gives the story a whole new meaning. A story of standing up for yourself and not letting anyone keep you from following your dreams.

A book about books and the ins and outs of the publishing world with so many literary references and quotes! I loved hearing big name publisher names inside the story. The MC, Emma Page, is telling her family's story of being the daughter in a famous literary family, whose parents are both NYT best selling authors and own a publicist business. Being a nepo baby, Emma feels like she has to live up to her pretentious parent’s fame even though her passion /dream is different from their expectations. But when she discovers a long lived family secret, cue the chaos, drama, threats, blackmail, and revenge.

I adored the strong bond Emma had with her Gigi and their alliance against her parents. Emma and Gigi were both sassy and sarcastic which I enjoyed and laughed multiple times while reading. I also loved hearing the literary/pop culture references. The first 20% of the book was a little slow and confusing, but the last 80% was so good.

I read this book in tandem with the audiobook. The narrator, Katharine Chin, did a fabulous job bringing the quirky, pretentious family and their story to life. Chin delivered a flawless performance from start to finish.

Thank you @htpbooks, @htp_hive, @harlequinaudio, @graydonhouse, and @netgalley for the #gifted ARC & ALC. All thoughts/opinions are my own.

I was excited to read the newest book by author, Viola Shipman, but this story just fell flat for me. I didn’t identify with any of the characters and found myself not even caring about the storyline. It wasn’t for me, but some people may love it! I find that sometimes I’m just not in the mood for a particular theme in a book.

This book was a great story to read. Viola Shipman has penned a true testament to authors and the publishing industry. The characters in this book have many facets, some you love and some you hate but inevitably the good win out. I love multi generational books and this one has a wonderful close relationship between grandchild and grandmother. There are some twists and turns in this book that keep you wanting to read more. I highly recommend this book.