I was fully immersed in this book. I have a fondness for bookstores in general, even more so the small used bookstore. I grew up on the east coast, and although I did not visit NYC all that often, it was enough that there was a vivid recognition and familiarity with the setting. I am glad I chose to read it now, as I have been laid up for the past week, post knee surgery. It was a pleasure to escape into Esme's life as I recuperate. The characters were all very real and there were many treasures of reference to literature and art. This was a delight to read.