The Last Page by Katie Holt - A Review

The Last Page by Katie Holt

The Last Page is a cozy, bookish romance that feels like a love letter to independent bookstores and the people who keep them alive. Set in New York City, it follows Ella, who’s worked at The Last Page since her teenage years and thought she’d one day run it—only to discover the store has been left to the owner’s grandson, Henry, after his death.

What I loved right away was how maturely Ella and Henry handle an awkward situation. Instead of leaning into messy miscommunication, they choose honesty, vulnerability, and teamwork, quickly forming a genuine friendship. 

The setting is where this book truly shines. Nearly every scene is steeped in books, and the story is deeply centered on found family and the shared mission of saving a beloved bookstore on the verge of closing. It’s comforting, heartfelt, and full of nostalgia.

The romance itself is a slow burn, and while the emotional chemistry didn’t fully click for me. I also adored the chapter‑opening book recommendations from the booksellers.  It was such a charming, thoughtful touch that added even more bookish joy.

The supporting cast brings humor and personality that contributed to the strong sense of community that defines the story. Henry, in particular, stood out—he’s kind, grounded, and easy to root for.

The Last Page is a sweet, cozy, Hallmark‑movie‑style comfort read that’s perfect for book lovers, especially as a palate cleanser or seasonal escape. That said, the familiar “beloved bookstore in danger of closing” storyline didn’t quite work for me and felt a bit too predictable, which kept me from fully connecting with the plot. Even so, the charm of the setting, the found‑family elements, and the clear love of books still shine through, making it a cozy story to curl up with.

★★★★☆

Thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Edelweiss for the ARC. All opinions are my own.