Picture an Irish storyteller weaving magic into the everyday, crafting tales that dance between reality and enchantment—meet Evie Woods! Known for her spellbinding novel The Lost Bookshop, which sold over a million copies worldwide, Woods, the pen name of Evie Gaughan, has captivated readers with her unique blend of magical realism, feminism, and Irish charm. From her cozy attic on Ireland’s West Coast, she spins stories that empower women and uncover the hidden wonders in our lives.
Born and raised in Galway, Woods’s journey to literary stardom is as enchanting as her novels. Her work, infused with the folklore and history of Ireland, invites readers to embrace the extraordinary within the ordinary, making her a beloved voice in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Evie Woods
Born in 1976 in Galway, Ireland, Evie Woods (real name Evie Gaughan) grew up surrounded by the lush landscapes and rich storytelling traditions of the West Coast. A childhood spent in and out of hospitals sparked her love for books, which became her refuge. After studying business and marketing at Atlantic Technological University and spending a year in Toulouse, France, she moved to Canada in her twenties. There, homesickness and social anxiety led her back to literature, with authors like Maeve Binchy and Marian Keyes inspiring her to write. A pivotal moment came when panic attacks forced her to return to Galway, where she began crafting stories as a form of healing, embracing what she calls 'bibliotherapy.'
Evie Woods’s Unforgettable Stories
Woods’s novels are a delightful mix of magical realism, historical fiction, and romance, often exploring themes of empowerment and self-discovery. Her breakout hit, The Lost Bookshop (2023), is a love letter to book lovers, weaving a tale of a vanishing bookshop, a hidden manuscript, and two people connected across time. With over a million copies sold and translations in 31 languages, it earned a spot on the Wall Street Journal and Sunday Times bestseller lists. The novel tackles heavy issues like domestic violence and misogyny while wrapping readers in a cozy, magical embrace.
Her follow-up, The Story Collector (2024), dives into Irish folklore, blending dual timelines to tell a tale of fairies, secrets, and healing. The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris (2025) transports readers to a magical bakery in France, promising luck and love with every pastry. The Heirloom, originally self-published, showcases her knack for blending contemporary and historical narratives. Woods’s lyrical prose and ability to weave warmth into complex characters make her stories unforgettable.
Why Evie Woods Matters
Evie Woods has carved a unique niche in magical realism, empowering women through stories that challenge societal norms and celebrate resilience. Her focus on 'magical feminism'—using enchantment to highlight women’s strength—resonates deeply, offering readers both escapism and inspiration. Her global success, driven by word-of-mouth and a passionate fanbase, proves the universal appeal of her Irish-rooted tales. By drawing on folklore and history, she connects readers to Ireland’s cultural heritage while addressing modern issues, making her work both timeless and timely.
- Born: 1976, Galway, Ireland
- Key Works: The Lost Bookshop, The Story Collector, The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris, The Heirloom
- Awards: Shortlisted for the 2024 British Book Awards (Page-Turner of the Year)
Snag The Lost Bookshop and dive into Evie Woods’s magical world of mystery, empowerment, and Irish enchantment!