The Library of the Unwritten (Novel from Hell's Library, #1)

by A. J. Hackwith

[Quirky Cat]

I received a copy of The Library of the Unwritten in exchange for a fair and honest review.

A.J. Hackwith's novel, The Library of the Unwritten, is the first in a new series called Hell's Library. I immediately knew that this was a novel I had to read – as it revolves around well, unwritten books!

Claire is the Head Librarian of the Unwritten Wing, conveniently located in Hell itself. What does that mean? Every book that has been dreamed up, but not written, belongs in her domain. She keeps the books in check, protecting both the books, and their delicate authors (not authors) with everything she has.

Something which is easier said than done, when the characters within the books can come to life. As evidenced by her latest series of events, all of which starts when a Hero wakes up, leaves their book, and makes a run to the mortal world. If only the adventure had stopped there, even that would have been an ordinary day for Claire. Too bad it kept on going.

“Forgiven doesn't mean no regret. We'll always regret the wrongs we've done. It just means you're not punishing yourself for it.”

Why did it take me so long to getting around to read The Library of the Unwritten?! This was an amazing read! One of my favorites this year. I know, I tend to love every book that features a library, but I really did adore this read.

It was shockingly unique, despite the core magical library concept. Everything Clair did as head librarian, for one thing. Then there's the whole unwritten part of the library, which in itself is quite fascinating.

The adventure itself quickly threw caution to the wind, raising the stakes way beyond what I would have expected, especially for the first novel in a series.

“Nothing burns up humanity as thoroughly as eternity.”

I loved the sass and the use of tropes and literary techniques within this book. It was clever, and at times quite funny. Which is fortunate, as that helped to balance out the heavier elements that were woven into this story.

Honestly, I really am kicking myself for not reading The Library of the Unwritten sooner. I adored it, and I am absolutely going to run out and buy The Archive of the Forgotten so I can start reading it ASAP.

Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks