“Which was worse? To feel nothing, or to grieve for something you no longer remembered? Surely when you forgot, you’d forget to be sad, or what was the point? And yet that numbness would take part of your self away, it would be like having pins-and-needles in your soul."

I am surprised at how much I loved this book. The unique and magical plot of having memories bound into books hooked me from the start. I loved the main character Emmett, who is a book binder, a profession that is often feared. Emmett has always been drawn to books, leading him to an apprenticeship with Seredith, a professional book binder. I won't share too much of the plot because I actually think this book is better if you go into it not knowing much.

The writing style was wonderful, the story was heart-wrenching and the characters were perfectly portrayed. In a way, it actually reminds me of The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern. Although Bridget Collins's writing definitely isn't as flowery as Erin Morgenstern's, the plot and some of the themes are pleasantly similar. I'd say if you liked The Starless Sea, then maybe give The Binding a go