The Keeper of Lost Things is a charming, intelligent, and moving novel of endless possibilities and joyful discoveries. Ruth Hogan explores the promises we make and break, the objects that bring magic and meaning to our lives, and the surprising connections that unite us.
Anthony Peardew is the keeper of lost things. Forty years ago, in an oversight, he lost a gift from his beloved fiancée, Therese. That same day, she died. Heartbroken, Anthony sought solace by recovering lost objects—things people had dropped, misplaced, or accidentally left behind—and writing stories about them.
Now, in the twilight of his life, Anthony feels he has not fully fulfilled his duty to reunite all lost things with their owners. As the end approaches, he bequeaths his life's mission to his unsuspecting assistant, Laura, leaving her his home and all its treasures—including an irritable ghost.
Recovering from a divorce, Laura is, in a way, one of Anthony's lost possessions. But when the lonely woman moves into the mansion she inherited, her life begins to transform. She finds a new friend in Sunshine, the neighbor's quirky daughter, and a welcome distraction in Freddy, the gardener. As the darkness begins to lift, Laura decides to fulfill Anthony's final wish: to return his beloved lost objects to their owners.
Long ago, Eunice found an object on a London sidewalk and kept it for years. Now, with her own end approaching, she loses something precious—a tragic twist of fate that forces her to break a promise.
As the new keeper of lost things, Laura holds the key to Anthony and Eunice's redemption. But can she unravel the past and rebuild the connections that will allow their spirits to rest?
Full of personality, wit, and wisdom, The Keeper of Lost Things is a heartwarming story that will move and enchant readers.
"Hogan's writing has the comforting warmth of the cups of tea and hot chocolate his characters pass around. Readers looking for old-fashioned storytelling with a touch of magic will find it here." — Kirkus Reviews
“Warm, quirky characters and the mystery of each lost object draw the reader in. Ultimately, Hogan's novel reveals how even discarded items have meaning, and seemingly random objects, people, and places are all interconnected.” — Booklist “A beautifully intricate novel that will remind readers that we are all connected. When life becomes confusing or sad, showing a little kindness and appreciation for the stories of others can lead to redemption.” — BookPage
“A charming read, perfect for the holidays.” — The Lady
“A high-spirited, hard-to-put-down novel.” — New York Journal of Books
“Touching, funny and romantic.” — Daily Mail
