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Special Delivery
In a novel that explores the fun and challenge, and occasional absurdity, of new beginnings, Danielle Steel tells the story of two people who find love where and when they least expect it.At fifty-nine, Jack Watson owns one of the most successful boutiques in Beverly Hills, has two adult children who are the light of his life, and his choice of Hollywood's most beautiful women. After a failed marriage in the distant past, and a brief, tragic affair years afterward, Jack has become the perfect bachelor. And he loves it.Amanda Robbins knew Jack Watson only as her daughter's father-in-law, an incurable playboy whom she dislikes intensely. Theirs had been a relationship based solely upon the marriage of her daughter to his son. And Amanda wants no other relationship with him. But when she becomes a widow unexpectedly, twenty-six years after she retired from Hollywood stardom to become a wife and mother, Amanda finds herself on unfamiliar ground, and is surprised to find herself both befriended by, and attracted to, Jack Watson. Worse yet, she likes him. There is a lot more to him than she previously suspected.Amanda's shock at her attraction to Jack is equaled only by her children's. Then suddenly, a startling announcement stuns both families, as Jack and Amanda are faced with an unexpected gift that neither thought possible, and with a choice that provides them both considerable challenge. But at a time in their lives when they least expect to feel that way, they not only feel young again, but are blissfully happy, in spite of the confusion, opposition, and obstacles all around them. Special Delivery is about what two people do when life gives them everything they wanted, twenty years after they expected to find it. In her fortieth bestselling novel, Danielle Steel makes us laugh and cry as she touches the heart with tenderness and accuracy.
217 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1997
474 people are currently reading
2447 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Steel
911 books16.7k followersDanielle Steel has been hailed as one of the world's bestselling authors, with almost a billion copies of her novels sold. Her many international bestsellers include All That Glitters, Royal, Daddy's Girls, The Wedding Dress, The Numbers Game, Moral Compass, Spy, and other highly acclaimed novels. She is also the author of His Bright Light, the story of her son Nick Traina's life and death; A Gift of Hope, a memoir of her work with the homeless; Expect a Miracle, a book of her favorite quotations for inspiration and comfort; Pure Joy, about the dogs she and her family have loved; and the children's books Pretty Minnie in Paris and Pretty Minnie in Hollywood.
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Instagram: @officialdaniellesteel
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Instagram: @officialdaniellesteel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
August 3, 2017
It has been years since I read a Danielle Steele book. Very predictable. Hero is 59 but came across as a bit immature at times. Are we ever going to get a perfect older hero ... I don't even want "perfect", just an older hero who is not immature. I don't mind flaws.
"Kids" were quite immature too. A few eye-rolling moments. I knew going it what to expect so it was what it was.
"Kids" were quite immature too. A few eye-rolling moments. I knew going it what to expect so it was what it was.
September 15, 2010
UGH
Danielle Steele writes romance books for 3rd graders.
Not that they are for 3rd graders, but the language is so trite, the grammar so bad (commas everywhere, especially where they don't belong) and the characters so one dimensional and wooden it's a wonder I lasted so long into it.
People are either wonderful or not. The wonderful ones are the same, no difference in character, good looking, without flaws, and filthy rich. Surprising, Jack, the lead in the book, couldn't make it in Hollywood and then opened a store on Rodeo Drive, to which Ms. Steele tells us that 'women were drawn to him like bees to honey and he was an immediate success.' Doesn't make much sense how he couldn't make it in movies if he was such a honey draw. The not ones are crabby and say things like "that's disgusting!" and such. Seriously, that's the most of their depth.
Here is an example of her writing. One character spits out three sentences like "I can't believe you said that! How dare you! She's my mother" and then the rest of the paragraph is 'She was so tired of talking she just stopped and looked out the window.' Really? After 3 sentences? She'll also say things like 'He was too tired to go to sleep.' And my favorite in this book 'They flew up on Friday and the first night they went to this swanky restaurant and the second night they ordered room service. On Saturday...' Ok, a day is missing.
These people hate each other for 4 pages of the book are are suddenly enamored with everything about each other. What? Why did they hate each other? Why would grown, 30 year old children flip the royal freak out when they get together and say its disgusting (please), and how on earth are you ever too tired to sleep so you stay up.
But the worse thing? I kept thinking how predictible it all was (seriously, she was so sick and they never once thought she could be pregnant?) and suddenly, around p. 150, I realized I had read the book before. Nothing had stood out to me until then. That's pretty bad. How I lasted that long I don't know. So I checked the last pages and yep, I knew the ending.
No more Danielle Steele. Ever.
Danielle Steele writes romance books for 3rd graders.
Not that they are for 3rd graders, but the language is so trite, the grammar so bad (commas everywhere, especially where they don't belong) and the characters so one dimensional and wooden it's a wonder I lasted so long into it.
People are either wonderful or not. The wonderful ones are the same, no difference in character, good looking, without flaws, and filthy rich. Surprising, Jack, the lead in the book, couldn't make it in Hollywood and then opened a store on Rodeo Drive, to which Ms. Steele tells us that 'women were drawn to him like bees to honey and he was an immediate success.' Doesn't make much sense how he couldn't make it in movies if he was such a honey draw. The not ones are crabby and say things like "that's disgusting!" and such. Seriously, that's the most of their depth.
Here is an example of her writing. One character spits out three sentences like "I can't believe you said that! How dare you! She's my mother" and then the rest of the paragraph is 'She was so tired of talking she just stopped and looked out the window.' Really? After 3 sentences? She'll also say things like 'He was too tired to go to sleep.' And my favorite in this book 'They flew up on Friday and the first night they went to this swanky restaurant and the second night they ordered room service. On Saturday...' Ok, a day is missing.
These people hate each other for 4 pages of the book are are suddenly enamored with everything about each other. What? Why did they hate each other? Why would grown, 30 year old children flip the royal freak out when they get together and say its disgusting (please), and how on earth are you ever too tired to sleep so you stay up.
But the worse thing? I kept thinking how predictible it all was (seriously, she was so sick and they never once thought she could be pregnant?) and suddenly, around p. 150, I realized I had read the book before. Nothing had stood out to me until then. That's pretty bad. How I lasted that long I don't know. So I checked the last pages and yep, I knew the ending.
No more Danielle Steele. Ever.
September 14, 2010
Special Delivery by Danielle Steel was the first book I have read by this author. I finished it quickly and enjoyed the story line of two people unexpectedly falling in love during their midlives. Jack, a confirmed batchlor with two grown children, meets and is smitten with Amanda, a retired star who also has two grown children. They are cautious of each other at first but it doesn't take long for the attraction to become intense. When they discover they are expecting a child at ages 51 and 59 they first offer the baby to their daughter and son who are married and unable to conceive. The conclusion has Amanda giving birth on her wedding day to Jack and their decision to keep the baby for themselves. Their daughter and son are pleased to learn they are expecting their own child. I probably will not read another Danielle Steel novel, but this book was fun.
April 14, 2020
Recensie volgt op m'n blog
July 16, 2018
Some spoilers....
I loved this book except for a couple things....
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Ok so I get how Amanda and Jack wanted to help their kids out by giving them their baby bç they were both over 50, but come on that is just sooooo strange. Like ok sweetie let's go visit your grandparents who r really your birth parents....yea no lol. I am just so glad that they ended up keeping the baby.
The other thing I didn't like was the ending....it ended so abruptly....we didn't even get to find out the baby's name 😕😕
I loved this book except for a couple things....
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Ok so I get how Amanda and Jack wanted to help their kids out by giving them their baby bç they were both over 50, but come on that is just sooooo strange. Like ok sweetie let's go visit your grandparents who r really your birth parents....yea no lol. I am just so glad that they ended up keeping the baby.
The other thing I didn't like was the ending....it ended so abruptly....we didn't even get to find out the baby's name 😕😕
August 22, 2020
Every day is a school day! I want to include more romance in the next Harry Parker novel (working title: 'Collateral Damage') so I thought I'd better read some of the most successful authors of romantic fiction. Danielle Steel is one of those (according to Wikipedia: "she is the bestselling author alive and the fourth bestselling fiction author of all time, with over 800 million copies sold. She has written 179 books, including over 146 novels"). I wasn't disappointed. This was great fun and it's addictive - I genuinely couldn't put it down. It's easy to read (something that's incredibly hard for an author to achieve) and moves at a fast pace with lots of human drama.
Verdict: Very strongly recommended if you want to sit by the pool and be entertained. I really enjoyed it.
Verdict: Very strongly recommended if you want to sit by the pool and be entertained. I really enjoyed it.
July 23, 2022
This was such a cute story!
I recently traveled to Los Angeles and I was looking forward to reading a book that took place in Los Angeles. DS made me feel like I never left.
This story features older characters finding love just when they think they're too old. There's an age gap as well as their own children try to sabotage. There were so many funny moments from the H Jack that I laughed out loud several times.
This short novel is the perfect escape!
I recently traveled to Los Angeles and I was looking forward to reading a book that took place in Los Angeles. DS made me feel like I never left.
This story features older characters finding love just when they think they're too old. There's an age gap as well as their own children try to sabotage. There were so many funny moments from the H Jack that I laughed out loud several times.
This short novel is the perfect escape!
October 4, 2021
I remember this one! A couple fight against their adult offspring to join together later in life (their children are married). Feel good, easy to read and ending in a nice ‘package’. Recommended.
November 2, 2021
Cauciucurile Ferrari-ului de culoare roşie scârţâiră în momentul în care maşina, dând colţul, intră cu viteză în spaţiul liber de parcare rezervat lui Jack Watson. Acesta era parkingul magazinului său din Beverly Hills, căruia, cu exact douăzeci de ani în urmă, îi dăduse numele fiicei sale, Julie, pe atunci în vârstă de nouă ani. La vremea respectivă, deschiderea magazinului fusese numai o joacă, un simplu divertisment pentru care optase după ce renunţase la cinematografie.
Regizase şapte sau opt filme de duzină, dintr-acelea prost finanţate. Niciunul nu reţinuse atenţia publicului. Iar înainte de aceasta, îşi petrecuse primii şase ani de după terminarea facultăţii, jucând ca actor, în diferite roluri mici. Cariera sa cinematografică, relativ nesemnificativă, fusese plină de obişnuitele speranţe şi promisiuni, care nu se ridicaseră niciodată la nivelul aşteptărilor lui şi care, mult prea deseori, se transformaseră în deziluzii. Norocul îi surâsese abia atunci când, cu ajutorul neprevăzut al unui unchi, care îi lăsase nişte bani, se hotărâse să devină comerciant. Aparent fără să depună un efort deosebit, pusese pe picioare un magazin prosper. Toate femeile din Los Angeles se înghesuiau să-şi facă cumpărăturile în el. Iniţial, soţia lui îl ajutase să achiziţioneze marfa, dar după doi ani îşi dăduse seama că avea un ochi mai bun decât ea atunci când era vorba de alegerea celor mai potrivite articole. De fapt, spre exasperarea ei, avusese ochi nu numai pentru mărfuri, ci şi pentru femeile care se îmbrăcau în magazinul lui. Fie că erau actriţe, doamne mondene, manechine sau simple gospodine ce dispuneau de bani, toate femeile din oraş voiau să meargă la Julie’s… şi să se întâlnească cu Jack Watson. El făcea parte din categoria acelor bărbaţi care nu trebuiau să facă niciun efort pentru a le atrage.
La doi ani după deschiderea magazinului, spre surprinderea lui, dar nu şi a celorlalţi, soţia sa l-a părăsit. De atunci, trecuseră optsprezece ani în care, trebuia să recunoască, nu-i simţise niciodată lipsa. O cunoscuse în timpul unor filmări. Venise să-i citească un text, apoi petrecuseră împreună două săptămâni fierbinţi, în vila lui din Malibu. La început, fusese îndrăgostit la nebunie de ea. După şase luni, se căsătoriseră. Atunci făcuse pentru prima şi ultima dată tentativa de a-şi pune un inel pe deget. Căsnicia, care durase cincisprezece ani, se materializase prin naşterea a doi copii, dar se încheiase cu toată amărăciunea şi veninul care, din punctul lui de vedere, erau inevitabile în orice căsnicie. În anii care urmaseră, mai fusese tentat o singură dată să se lege pe viaţă de cineva. Dar femeia aceea se dovedise mult prea deşteaptă pentru a-şi pune pirostriile. Aceea fusese unica femeie căreia simţise nevoia să-i rămână fidel. Pe vremea aceea, el avea patruzeci de ani şi ceva, iar ea treizeci şi nouă. Fusese o actriţă de origine franceză, foarte bine cotată. Trăiseră împreună doi ani. Când aflase de moartea ei, survenită într-un accident pe autostrada spre Palm Springs, unde ar fi trebuit să se întâlnească cu el, crezuse că n-o să-şi mai revină niciodată. Pentru prima oară în viaţa sa, Jack Watson aflase ce înseamnă adevărata durere. Doar în vise îndrăznise să năzuiască la o femeie ca ea. Chiar şi acum, în rarele sale momente de seriozitate, continua să afirme că nu mai iubise nicio altă femeie în afara ei. Dorianne Matthieu fusese amuzantă, insolentă, frumoasă, sexy şi, în felul ei, extrem de nesăbuită. Nu-l acceptase din niciun punct de vedere. Spusese chiar că numai o nebună s-ar fi măritat cu el, însă Jack nu se îndoise nicio clipă de dragostea ei. Iar el, la rândul său, o adorase. Dorianne îl luase la Paris, pentru a-i face cunoştinţă cu prietenii ei. Călătoriseră peste tot împreună – prin Europa, Asia, Africa şi America de Sud. Fiecare moment petrecut alături de ea i se păruse magic. Când murise, simţise un gol atât de mare în suflet şi o senzaţie de pierdere atât de copleşitoare încât crezuse, realmente, că se va prăpădi şi el.
De la dispariţia ei, cunoscuse suficiente femei, chiar foarte multe, pentru a-i umple zilele şi nopţile. În cei doisprezece ani care se scurseseră între timp, nu fusese aproape niciodată singur, dar nici nu mai iubise pe altcineva. Şi nici nu voise să se mai îndrăgostească. Din punctul lui de vedere, iubirea genera prea multă suferinţă. La cei cincizeci şi nouă de ani ai săi, Jack Watson avea absolut tot ce-şi dorea: o afacere prosperă, de pe urma căreia câştiga o mulţime de bani.
Regizase şapte sau opt filme de duzină, dintr-acelea prost finanţate. Niciunul nu reţinuse atenţia publicului. Iar înainte de aceasta, îşi petrecuse primii şase ani de după terminarea facultăţii, jucând ca actor, în diferite roluri mici. Cariera sa cinematografică, relativ nesemnificativă, fusese plină de obişnuitele speranţe şi promisiuni, care nu se ridicaseră niciodată la nivelul aşteptărilor lui şi care, mult prea deseori, se transformaseră în deziluzii. Norocul îi surâsese abia atunci când, cu ajutorul neprevăzut al unui unchi, care îi lăsase nişte bani, se hotărâse să devină comerciant. Aparent fără să depună un efort deosebit, pusese pe picioare un magazin prosper. Toate femeile din Los Angeles se înghesuiau să-şi facă cumpărăturile în el. Iniţial, soţia lui îl ajutase să achiziţioneze marfa, dar după doi ani îşi dăduse seama că avea un ochi mai bun decât ea atunci când era vorba de alegerea celor mai potrivite articole. De fapt, spre exasperarea ei, avusese ochi nu numai pentru mărfuri, ci şi pentru femeile care se îmbrăcau în magazinul lui. Fie că erau actriţe, doamne mondene, manechine sau simple gospodine ce dispuneau de bani, toate femeile din oraş voiau să meargă la Julie’s… şi să se întâlnească cu Jack Watson. El făcea parte din categoria acelor bărbaţi care nu trebuiau să facă niciun efort pentru a le atrage.
La doi ani după deschiderea magazinului, spre surprinderea lui, dar nu şi a celorlalţi, soţia sa l-a părăsit. De atunci, trecuseră optsprezece ani în care, trebuia să recunoască, nu-i simţise niciodată lipsa. O cunoscuse în timpul unor filmări. Venise să-i citească un text, apoi petrecuseră împreună două săptămâni fierbinţi, în vila lui din Malibu. La început, fusese îndrăgostit la nebunie de ea. După şase luni, se căsătoriseră. Atunci făcuse pentru prima şi ultima dată tentativa de a-şi pune un inel pe deget. Căsnicia, care durase cincisprezece ani, se materializase prin naşterea a doi copii, dar se încheiase cu toată amărăciunea şi veninul care, din punctul lui de vedere, erau inevitabile în orice căsnicie. În anii care urmaseră, mai fusese tentat o singură dată să se lege pe viaţă de cineva. Dar femeia aceea se dovedise mult prea deşteaptă pentru a-şi pune pirostriile. Aceea fusese unica femeie căreia simţise nevoia să-i rămână fidel. Pe vremea aceea, el avea patruzeci de ani şi ceva, iar ea treizeci şi nouă. Fusese o actriţă de origine franceză, foarte bine cotată. Trăiseră împreună doi ani. Când aflase de moartea ei, survenită într-un accident pe autostrada spre Palm Springs, unde ar fi trebuit să se întâlnească cu el, crezuse că n-o să-şi mai revină niciodată. Pentru prima oară în viaţa sa, Jack Watson aflase ce înseamnă adevărata durere. Doar în vise îndrăznise să năzuiască la o femeie ca ea. Chiar şi acum, în rarele sale momente de seriozitate, continua să afirme că nu mai iubise nicio altă femeie în afara ei. Dorianne Matthieu fusese amuzantă, insolentă, frumoasă, sexy şi, în felul ei, extrem de nesăbuită. Nu-l acceptase din niciun punct de vedere. Spusese chiar că numai o nebună s-ar fi măritat cu el, însă Jack nu se îndoise nicio clipă de dragostea ei. Iar el, la rândul său, o adorase. Dorianne îl luase la Paris, pentru a-i face cunoştinţă cu prietenii ei. Călătoriseră peste tot împreună – prin Europa, Asia, Africa şi America de Sud. Fiecare moment petrecut alături de ea i se păruse magic. Când murise, simţise un gol atât de mare în suflet şi o senzaţie de pierdere atât de copleşitoare încât crezuse, realmente, că se va prăpădi şi el.
De la dispariţia ei, cunoscuse suficiente femei, chiar foarte multe, pentru a-i umple zilele şi nopţile. În cei doisprezece ani care se scurseseră între timp, nu fusese aproape niciodată singur, dar nici nu mai iubise pe altcineva. Şi nici nu voise să se mai îndrăgostească. Din punctul lui de vedere, iubirea genera prea multă suferinţă. La cei cincizeci şi nouă de ani ai săi, Jack Watson avea absolut tot ce-şi dorea: o afacere prosperă, de pe urma căreia câştiga o mulţime de bani.
July 16, 2018
Últimamente disfruto leyendo las novelas de esta autora. Una novela distinta a las leídas anteriormente, mucho mas corta, mas liviana, tiene drama pero también momentos divertidos y graciosos.
Esta novela quise leerla porque me interesó el plot que involucra a Amanda una ex actriz convertida en esposa ejemplar y aún muy atractiva que queda viuda a los 50 años y a Jack su consuegro un viudo un rico y exitoso empresario de 60 años que actualmente vive de romance en romance con modelos y actrices mas jovenes que él. Ambos tenían una relación distante y cada uno tenía la peor idea preconcebida de ellos, pero el destino los une y se enamoran.
Tendrán que luchar contra sus hijos para llevar adelante este romance, pero todo se complica cuando ella queda embarazada.
Una historia muy distinta a lo que había leído antes de esta escritora, tanto por la edad de los protagonista, como por los tintes a veces divertidos en la historia. Ambos son personajes encantadores, pero Jack es muy gracioso y siempre tiene un comentario divertido sobre las cosas y sobre ellos, hubo momentos en que me sacó varias sonrisas con sus ocurrencias.
Lo importante es el día a día, Jack y Amanda parecen ser mas jóvenes cuando están juntos y enfrentan el futuro con pasión y amor.
Me gustó esta veta menos trágica y algo mas relajada de D.Steel para contarnos una historia.
Y como siempre la intimidad entre los protagonistas es contada en forma discreta, se da a entender pero sin entrar en detalles, algo que disfruto en la lectura... la insinuación sin mayor descripción que empañe el plot en general.
Me gustan estas historias que al finalizar te dejan contenta y hasta esperanzada. Hay por supuesto varios clichés y cierto gusto dulzón en los momentos emotivos en la novela, pero a mi me gustó y la leí en un día. Aún no me aburren las historias de esta autora y tengo varias pendientes por leer.
3,5/5
Los invito a visitar en el blog donde se publican las reseñas.
http://perezosa69.blogspot.cl/2018/03...
Esta novela quise leerla porque me interesó el plot que involucra a Amanda una ex actriz convertida en esposa ejemplar y aún muy atractiva que queda viuda a los 50 años y a Jack su consuegro un viudo un rico y exitoso empresario de 60 años que actualmente vive de romance en romance con modelos y actrices mas jovenes que él. Ambos tenían una relación distante y cada uno tenía la peor idea preconcebida de ellos, pero el destino los une y se enamoran.
Tendrán que luchar contra sus hijos para llevar adelante este romance, pero todo se complica cuando ella queda embarazada.
Una historia muy distinta a lo que había leído antes de esta escritora, tanto por la edad de los protagonista, como por los tintes a veces divertidos en la historia. Ambos son personajes encantadores, pero Jack es muy gracioso y siempre tiene un comentario divertido sobre las cosas y sobre ellos, hubo momentos en que me sacó varias sonrisas con sus ocurrencias.
Lo importante es el día a día, Jack y Amanda parecen ser mas jóvenes cuando están juntos y enfrentan el futuro con pasión y amor.
Me gustó esta veta menos trágica y algo mas relajada de D.Steel para contarnos una historia.
Y como siempre la intimidad entre los protagonistas es contada en forma discreta, se da a entender pero sin entrar en detalles, algo que disfruto en la lectura... la insinuación sin mayor descripción que empañe el plot en general.
Me gustan estas historias que al finalizar te dejan contenta y hasta esperanzada. Hay por supuesto varios clichés y cierto gusto dulzón en los momentos emotivos en la novela, pero a mi me gustó y la leí en un día. Aún no me aburren las historias de esta autora y tengo varias pendientes por leer.
3,5/5
Los invito a visitar en el blog donde se publican las reseñas.
http://perezosa69.blogspot.cl/2018/03...
March 29, 2020
Very silly and very predictable. I’ve never read Danielle Steele before but from what I understand she is very cliche and this book is true to that. But, we’re in a quarantine and libraries are closed, so it’s what I had and it kept my attention for 200 pages.
January 4, 2025
This was a pleasant, quick read that had a few twists and turns. Just what I needed after too many crime books.
December 30, 2022
I travelled home for the holidays and Christmas time. I finished of too early the book that I brought home, as a result I was looking for a new one on the shelves. The number of the foreign language books was very limited, hence I chose the Special Delivery from Danielle Steel.
The narrativ style as well the dialogs are written very sloppy, as if the book was written to 4th graders. No character development, shallow story, superficial storyline. The story itself was predictable from the 1st page. I fought myself through for the sake of closing this up. Not recommended.
The narrativ style as well the dialogs are written very sloppy, as if the book was written to 4th graders. No character development, shallow story, superficial storyline. The story itself was predictable from the 1st page. I fought myself through for the sake of closing this up. Not recommended.
January 20, 2025
Short entertaining little book.
February 15, 2017
Great story
I loved the characters. Really good story. I have always loved Danielle Steel. Her characters are always real people,believeable. Great book.
I loved the characters. Really good story. I have always loved Danielle Steel. Her characters are always real people,believeable. Great book.
June 13, 2015
If you go into a Danielle Steel with the advance understanding that it will never be awarding winning literature, there is actually a place for her on the bookshelf. It's going to be fluffy and a tad unrealistic. The characters will be overly perfect (the most beautiful, the most sought after, the most charming, the most most of everything "good"), and while there will certainly be some conflict, it will resolve into a happily-ever-after, in some form or another. This book, predictably, followed the Danielle Steel protocol, but there are times when I want predictability. It's comforting and satisfying. The only thing I found dissatisfying was that the book ended so abruptly. There was a final detail omitted, one that maybe holds no bearing on the story being told, but that would have required one additional sentence, tops, and possibly even a sentence fragment, tacked onto an already existing thought. I enjoyed the story, in all its Steel-esque composition, being a quick, easy read, but that one missing detail grates on me enough to drop my rating by a star (I considered it 3.5, rounding to 4...until that detail issue is factored in, forcing me to round down instead).
November 6, 2014
Wow I loved this book it was my first time reading Ms. Steele's work and I MUST admit I was not disappointed !!!!. It was just like watching one of her movies. This book was the truth ; it was had me on the edge but had relaxed me too :) well done Danielle. I never read Danielle Steel before in my life, because I thought most of the plots she had in her books were too mushy and boring. God knows what made me interested in this book. The first few chapters go slow, but when Jack and Amanda get together, all the excitement begins. 'Special Delivery' is a very emotional story and is a lot of fun to read if you like love stories. As a seventeen year old girl, I thought, after reading this book, that it is okay to be ages sixty and fifty, and still act twenty years younger. After all, life is short, right? : ) The only annoying fact in this book is that almost every time Jack and Amanda see each other, they always end up in bed with each other as if the world is going to end within a second. On the other hand, the book is nothing, but a wonderfully cute love story with strong emotion and feelings.
February 23, 2011
I liked this one but thought that it should have a little more animosity between Jack and Amanda when they first start seeing each other. The second half of the book held many surprises for the reader and I especially loved how it ended. I was surprised at the ending. This didn't seem like a typical Danielle Steel book, in that there were less descriptions and more fast-moving action than there is in most of her books. It was also a shorter than usual book, among all her books I've previously read.
June 2, 2015
A quick read...some of the story seemed rushed.
September 28, 2020
Oh that Danielle Steel!
September 3, 2015
This was a very good book how ever I do wish the author had done more to make it more interesting. I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
May 26, 2019
It's was very exceptional I loved it and its now my best book by Danielle steel .
December 13, 2016
Quick read. Typical Danielle Steele. Nothing outstanding. Enjoyable
July 4, 2018
This novel from 1998 was a quick, easy read, and if you like Danielle Steel and her type of novels, you'll enjoy it. The only drawback for me was the title, which kind of gives away the whole premise of the book immediately. As you read along it is pretty easy to quickly guess where the storyline is going from the title. It really is a spoiler for the book, because I guessed the progression of the story with no surprises at several crucial moments specifically because of it. However, I did like the characters and the story was sweet, just no revealing moments thanks to the title. I would have given this 4 stars for the story itself, but decided to go with only 3 stars due to the annoyance the title caused in spoiling any anticipation about the storyline's direction.
Synopsis:
In a novel that explores the fun and challenge, and occasional absurdity, of new beginnings, Danielle Steel tells the story of two people who find love where and when they least expect it. At fifty-nine, Jack Watson owns one of the most successful boutiques in Beverly Hills, has two adult children who are the light of his life, and his choice of Hollywood's most beautiful women. After a failed marriage in the distant past, and a brief, tragic affair years afterward, Jack has become the perfect bachelor. And he loves it. Amanda Robbins knew Jack Watson only as her daughter's father-in-law, an incurable playboy whom she dislikes intensely. Theirs had been a relationship based solely upon the marriage of her daughter to his son. And Amanda wants no other relationship with him. But when she becomes a widow unexpectedly, twenty-six years after she retired from Hollywood stardom to become a wife and mother, Amanda finds herself on unfamiliar ground, and is surprised to find herself both befriended by, and attracted to, Jack Watson. Worse yet, she likes him. There is a lot more to him than she previously suspected. Amanda's shock at her attraction to Jack is equaled only by her children's. Then suddenly, a startling announcement stuns both families, as Jack and Amanda are faced with an unexpected gift that neither thought possible, and with a choice that provides them both considerable challenge. But at a time in their lives when they least expect to feel that way, they not only feel young again, but are blissfully happy, in spite of the confusion, opposition, and obstacles all around them. Special Delivery is about what two people do when life gives them everything they wanted, twenty years after they expected to find it. In her fortieth bestselling novel, Danielle Steel makes us laugh and cry as she touches the heart with tenderness and accuracy.
Synopsis:
In a novel that explores the fun and challenge, and occasional absurdity, of new beginnings, Danielle Steel tells the story of two people who find love where and when they least expect it. At fifty-nine, Jack Watson owns one of the most successful boutiques in Beverly Hills, has two adult children who are the light of his life, and his choice of Hollywood's most beautiful women. After a failed marriage in the distant past, and a brief, tragic affair years afterward, Jack has become the perfect bachelor. And he loves it. Amanda Robbins knew Jack Watson only as her daughter's father-in-law, an incurable playboy whom she dislikes intensely. Theirs had been a relationship based solely upon the marriage of her daughter to his son. And Amanda wants no other relationship with him. But when she becomes a widow unexpectedly, twenty-six years after she retired from Hollywood stardom to become a wife and mother, Amanda finds herself on unfamiliar ground, and is surprised to find herself both befriended by, and attracted to, Jack Watson. Worse yet, she likes him. There is a lot more to him than she previously suspected. Amanda's shock at her attraction to Jack is equaled only by her children's. Then suddenly, a startling announcement stuns both families, as Jack and Amanda are faced with an unexpected gift that neither thought possible, and with a choice that provides them both considerable challenge. But at a time in their lives when they least expect to feel that way, they not only feel young again, but are blissfully happy, in spite of the confusion, opposition, and obstacles all around them. Special Delivery is about what two people do when life gives them everything they wanted, twenty years after they expected to find it. In her fortieth bestselling novel, Danielle Steel makes us laugh and cry as she touches the heart with tenderness and accuracy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2025
Danielle Steel’s Special Delivery is a warm, comforting romantic drama that blends themes of unexpected love, second chances, and the challenges of starting over later in life. True to Steel’s signature style, the novel offers an emotionally engaging story built around sympathetic characters and real life dilemmas.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Jack Watson, a charming Hollywood agent enjoying a bachelor lifestyle after years of hard work, and Amanda Kingston, a recently widowed woman who is still navigating grief and the complexities of family expectations. When the two meet through Amanda’s daughter, a surprising connection forms one that neither of them sought out, yet both find difficult to ignore.
What begins as a gentle friendship grows into a meaningful romance, complicated by their very different personalities, life stages, and insecurities. The sudden news that Amanda is unexpectedly pregnant at her age becomes the book’s central turning point, prompting both characters to rethink their priorities and define what family means to them.
Strengths of the Novel
Emotional comfort: Steel excels at writing stories that feel heartfelt and reassuring, and Special Delivery is no exception. It offers a hopeful message about love after loss.
Mature romance: Instead of focusing on youthful infatuation, the novel explores love between older adults dealing with past baggage, making it relatable for many readers.
Character driven storytelling: Jack and Amanda are well developed, and their evolving relationship feels grounded and genuine.
Potential Weaknesses
Predictability: Like many Steel novels, the plot follows familiar romance tropes. Readers seeking twist-heavy or unconventional storytelling may find it predictable.
Idealised relationships: Conflicts are often resolved quickly, and some elements especially the late in life pregnancy may feel overly convenient or unrealistic.
Simplified emotional depth: While touching, the book tends to skim the deeper complexities of grief, parenting struggles, and blended families.
Overall Impression
Special Delivery is a gentle, uplifting story about rediscovering joy when life seems settled and predictable. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy heartwarming romance, emotional reassurance, and characters who find love against the odds. While it doesn’t break new ground narratively, it delivers what Steel fans appreciate most: escapism, warmth, and hope.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Jack Watson, a charming Hollywood agent enjoying a bachelor lifestyle after years of hard work, and Amanda Kingston, a recently widowed woman who is still navigating grief and the complexities of family expectations. When the two meet through Amanda’s daughter, a surprising connection forms one that neither of them sought out, yet both find difficult to ignore.
What begins as a gentle friendship grows into a meaningful romance, complicated by their very different personalities, life stages, and insecurities. The sudden news that Amanda is unexpectedly pregnant at her age becomes the book’s central turning point, prompting both characters to rethink their priorities and define what family means to them.
Strengths of the Novel
Emotional comfort: Steel excels at writing stories that feel heartfelt and reassuring, and Special Delivery is no exception. It offers a hopeful message about love after loss.
Mature romance: Instead of focusing on youthful infatuation, the novel explores love between older adults dealing with past baggage, making it relatable for many readers.
Character driven storytelling: Jack and Amanda are well developed, and their evolving relationship feels grounded and genuine.
Potential Weaknesses
Predictability: Like many Steel novels, the plot follows familiar romance tropes. Readers seeking twist-heavy or unconventional storytelling may find it predictable.
Idealised relationships: Conflicts are often resolved quickly, and some elements especially the late in life pregnancy may feel overly convenient or unrealistic.
Simplified emotional depth: While touching, the book tends to skim the deeper complexities of grief, parenting struggles, and blended families.
Overall Impression
Special Delivery is a gentle, uplifting story about rediscovering joy when life seems settled and predictable. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy heartwarming romance, emotional reassurance, and characters who find love against the odds. While it doesn’t break new ground narratively, it delivers what Steel fans appreciate most: escapism, warmth, and hope.
March 2, 2020
I throughly enjoyed this book. I was in a mood for a classic Danielle Steel book, and so glad l did.
The story and the characters, were there to fall in love with, the storyline was so enjoyable, it was fast paced, exciting , romantic, so heartwarming, l could not put the book down.
That is the beauty of Danielle Steel.
Jack Watson 59, owns one of the most successful boutiques in Beverly Hills, he has two adult children, who are the love of his life, and has choice of many beautiful Hollywood 👩🏼 woman.
After a failed marriage, in the distant past and a brief tragic affair years after, Jack becomes a perfect bachelor.
Amanda Robbins knew Jack Watson only as her daughter’s father in law, a playboy whom she disliked very much.
But when she becomes a widow unexpectedly, 26 years after she retired from Hollywood stardom to become a wife and mother.
Amanda finds herself both friends and attracted to Jack there is a lot more to him than she previously suspected.
Amanda shock at her attraction
Then suddenly an announcement, stuns both families as Jack and Amanda are faced with an unexpected 💝 gift that neither thought possible.
I have had this book on my TBR shelf for so long it was time to read it.
So glad, l did.
The story and the characters, were there to fall in love with, the storyline was so enjoyable, it was fast paced, exciting , romantic, so heartwarming, l could not put the book down.
That is the beauty of Danielle Steel.
Jack Watson 59, owns one of the most successful boutiques in Beverly Hills, he has two adult children, who are the love of his life, and has choice of many beautiful Hollywood 👩🏼 woman.
After a failed marriage, in the distant past and a brief tragic affair years after, Jack becomes a perfect bachelor.
Amanda Robbins knew Jack Watson only as her daughter’s father in law, a playboy whom she disliked very much.
But when she becomes a widow unexpectedly, 26 years after she retired from Hollywood stardom to become a wife and mother.
Amanda finds herself both friends and attracted to Jack there is a lot more to him than she previously suspected.
Amanda shock at her attraction
Then suddenly an announcement, stuns both families as Jack and Amanda are faced with an unexpected 💝 gift that neither thought possible.
I have had this book on my TBR shelf for so long it was time to read it.
So glad, l did.
January 21, 2024
"Special Delivery" by Danielle Steel unfolds a touching narrative set against the backdrop of familial bonds and unforeseen encounters. Steel masterfully introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, each facing their own challenges and joys. The story follows the intertwined lives of these characters, creating a tapestry of emotions that range from heartache to hope.
The novel explores themes of resilience, second chances, and the transformative power of love. Steel's vivid descriptions bring the settings to life, whether it's the bustling cityscape or the tranquil countryside. The pacing is well-executed, keeping readers engaged from the first page to the last.
What sets "Special Delivery" apart is Steel's ability to delve into the intricacies of human relationships. The characters are relatable and authentic, making it easy for readers to connect with their journeys. The twists and turns in the plot add an element of unpredictability, keeping the story fresh and compelling.
Overall, "Special Delivery" is a beautifully crafted novel that combines romance, drama, and introspection. Danielle Steel's skillful storytelling and the rich tapestry of characters make it a standout addition to her impressive body of work.
The novel explores themes of resilience, second chances, and the transformative power of love. Steel's vivid descriptions bring the settings to life, whether it's the bustling cityscape or the tranquil countryside. The pacing is well-executed, keeping readers engaged from the first page to the last.
What sets "Special Delivery" apart is Steel's ability to delve into the intricacies of human relationships. The characters are relatable and authentic, making it easy for readers to connect with their journeys. The twists and turns in the plot add an element of unpredictability, keeping the story fresh and compelling.
Overall, "Special Delivery" is a beautifully crafted novel that combines romance, drama, and introspection. Danielle Steel's skillful storytelling and the rich tapestry of characters make it a standout addition to her impressive body of work.
July 31, 2025
Danielle Steel was my first romance author when I was a young adult. I loved her books and read so many of them when I was younger. After a while, they became so formulaic so I quit reading her. Every so often, I’ll give her another try, and so far, I’ve been disappointed. I can’t believe I ever found her writing racy!
I found this book so stupid. I can’t believe I even finished it. I swear to God, the first few pages just kept saying the same thing with slightly different verbiage—Jack was a nice, charming guy who was a womanizer, but he was so charming, the ladies didn’t mind. After 4 pages of that on repeat, I almost put the book down. I decided to give it a chance, and while she finally moved on from that narrative, I will say it was pretty easy to predict what was going to happen. And seriously, how weird would it be for his son and her daughter who are married to find that their respective parents are dating and then she gets pregnant at 50? And THEN she thinks she’ll give the baby to her daughter and husband because they are having trouble conceiving? And they agree??? What the hell? Seriously so stupid. The only reason I gave it 2 stars and not just 1 is I guess it held my interest long enough to finish it.
I found this book so stupid. I can’t believe I even finished it. I swear to God, the first few pages just kept saying the same thing with slightly different verbiage—Jack was a nice, charming guy who was a womanizer, but he was so charming, the ladies didn’t mind. After 4 pages of that on repeat, I almost put the book down. I decided to give it a chance, and while she finally moved on from that narrative, I will say it was pretty easy to predict what was going to happen. And seriously, how weird would it be for his son and her daughter who are married to find that their respective parents are dating and then she gets pregnant at 50? And THEN she thinks she’ll give the baby to her daughter and husband because they are having trouble conceiving? And they agree??? What the hell? Seriously so stupid. The only reason I gave it 2 stars and not just 1 is I guess it held my interest long enough to finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2018
A moving story, enjoyed reading.
Amanda and Jack are cordial to one another for the sake of their kids; her daughter, is married to his son. Amanda's husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her a widow and lost, not knowing what to do. Amanda retired from Hollywood 26 years ago to become a wife and a mother; now she's alone. Jack steps in and becomes her friend, she finds herself attracted to him; much to her shock and surprise. Not only is he attractive, he's a really good person. He isn't anything like she thought he was.
When her kids find out that they are together, they are shocked. Understandably so, considering how they both couldn't stand to be around one another and now they are dating.
Amanda and Jack get news that they never thought they would hear at their age. Jack is 59 years old, she's 51; it's unthinkable. With their children having problems trying to get pregnant, they decide to give the baby to them.
Will Amanda and Jack survive after her pregnancy?
Amanda and Jack are cordial to one another for the sake of their kids; her daughter, is married to his son. Amanda's husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her a widow and lost, not knowing what to do. Amanda retired from Hollywood 26 years ago to become a wife and a mother; now she's alone. Jack steps in and becomes her friend, she finds herself attracted to him; much to her shock and surprise. Not only is he attractive, he's a really good person. He isn't anything like she thought he was.
When her kids find out that they are together, they are shocked. Understandably so, considering how they both couldn't stand to be around one another and now they are dating.
Amanda and Jack get news that they never thought they would hear at their age. Jack is 59 years old, she's 51; it's unthinkable. With their children having problems trying to get pregnant, they decide to give the baby to them.
Will Amanda and Jack survive after her pregnancy?
January 31, 2019
What a lovely book it is! It reminds me of pure definition of love, affection, care and trust. Paul and Jan were not able to conceive the baby when they wanted it the most, but when they come to know about their parents being pregnant, they get angry, sad and mad. However, Jack and Amanda, the two most beautiful souls on the earth, promises them to give them their own son but god has something big in store for Paul and Jan. I am not shocked but utterly disappointed on children views on their parents. How they believe parents are selfish and don't deserve to be loved? How they believe if one of them loses their partner they must mourn on other significant half partner's death till eternity? Who gives them this right to decide for their parents? I am really touched by Danielle Steel's way of writing and creating such an emotional drama in the name of weird characters we call family. Highly recommended for its bitter truth, honesty, good over evil triump story.
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