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The Love Letter
A wonderfully warm comedy of mistaken identities, new loves, and old flames Can fate be signed, sealed, and delivered? When Allegra North parted from first love Francis after a decade together, she poured all her regret into a letter. He didn't reply. A year later, her job brings her back to the beautiful Devon coast where romance first blossomed and she hopes that they can start a new chapter. A family crisis fans the old flames from the start, and sparks fly when a chance encounter makes Allegra question whether Francis was ever really on the same page. As summer storms circle, the exes juggle rebellious parents, vengeful family members, and a very reluctant celebrity author who holds the key to everybody's future.
665 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2012
31 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 7, 2012
I found it quite long winded and a bit of a time waster. Ploughed through it in the end but with great difficulty. I'm starting to feel like Fiona walker and I must part ways in the not too distant future.
September 20, 2018
Picking this up and and expecting a typical “chick flick” novel, Fiona Walker totally surprised me. True, I haven’t read Fiona Walker before, but 'The Love Letter' offered more depth in its plot than anticipated. Over 600 pages long, it wasn’t a quick read and coupled with the longish chapters, I often found if difficult to come to an appropriate stopping point. I guess what I’m trying to say is that you need to pace yourself with this novel and not be surprised if it takes longer to read than you initially think.
The plot has so many twists and turns that I find it difficult to classify it under a single genre. There’s the obvious romance element with Legs, Hector and Kitty (not all in the same relationship!),a bit of mystery as family ties begin to be revealed, and I thought some slight suggestion of thriller, particularly with all the unexpected developments that the plot takes. However, as all “comes good” at the closing of the novel, then I guess 'The Love Letter' is a typical example of women’s fiction that has different genres thrown into the plot for added variety.
Legs’ relationship with Francis was a tricky one. The novel begins a year on from when Legs ended her engagement to Francis by letter (hence the title). Work duties means she is forced to return to Francis’ “world” and there follows frustrating expectations from everyone Legs encounters, that she is going to rekindle her relationship with him. However, I found that I just couldn’t trust Francis. He “comes on” to Legs far too strongly after a year apart and seems to think things will conveniently go back to normal between them. When Francis is looking after Legs whilst she is ill, I couldn’t help but create a conspiracy theory that he was deliberately keeping her ill so that he could care for her! Distrust evolving into dislike, I felt that Legs was definitely better off without him.
Byrne, on the other hand, is the chivalrous knight in shining armour and I enjoyed the mystery and intrigue that Walker created around his character. He has so many surprising facades to his backstory that I really enjoyed discovering more about him with Legs. Totally the opposite to Francis; even more the opposite to Conrad and Hector.
On a small note, whilst this novel is another set by the coast, it doesn’t really feature too much in this story. Rather, this is more about country estates and family ownership; idyllic nonetheless, the seaside takes more of a backseat here. Maybe this is why I felt a little disillusioned with the story as it developed.
This novel doesn’t just follow Legs and her relationship, but also focuses on unravelling many strands to a complicated family. This is what made me feel the novel read a bit like a mystery and I think it made the plot more interesting to read. I felt I could only reward it four stars however, because sometimes the plot did lose momentum and therefore my interest. Upon finishing it, I did have a smile on my face and it did make this slog worthwhile. Sometimes I think that a shorter novel is better for pace, rather than a lengthy one like this.
The plot has so many twists and turns that I find it difficult to classify it under a single genre. There’s the obvious romance element with Legs, Hector and Kitty (not all in the same relationship!),a bit of mystery as family ties begin to be revealed, and I thought some slight suggestion of thriller, particularly with all the unexpected developments that the plot takes. However, as all “comes good” at the closing of the novel, then I guess 'The Love Letter' is a typical example of women’s fiction that has different genres thrown into the plot for added variety.
Legs’ relationship with Francis was a tricky one. The novel begins a year on from when Legs ended her engagement to Francis by letter (hence the title). Work duties means she is forced to return to Francis’ “world” and there follows frustrating expectations from everyone Legs encounters, that she is going to rekindle her relationship with him. However, I found that I just couldn’t trust Francis. He “comes on” to Legs far too strongly after a year apart and seems to think things will conveniently go back to normal between them. When Francis is looking after Legs whilst she is ill, I couldn’t help but create a conspiracy theory that he was deliberately keeping her ill so that he could care for her! Distrust evolving into dislike, I felt that Legs was definitely better off without him.
Byrne, on the other hand, is the chivalrous knight in shining armour and I enjoyed the mystery and intrigue that Walker created around his character. He has so many surprising facades to his backstory that I really enjoyed discovering more about him with Legs. Totally the opposite to Francis; even more the opposite to Conrad and Hector.
On a small note, whilst this novel is another set by the coast, it doesn’t really feature too much in this story. Rather, this is more about country estates and family ownership; idyllic nonetheless, the seaside takes more of a backseat here. Maybe this is why I felt a little disillusioned with the story as it developed.
This novel doesn’t just follow Legs and her relationship, but also focuses on unravelling many strands to a complicated family. This is what made me feel the novel read a bit like a mystery and I think it made the plot more interesting to read. I felt I could only reward it four stars however, because sometimes the plot did lose momentum and therefore my interest. Upon finishing it, I did have a smile on my face and it did make this slog worthwhile. Sometimes I think that a shorter novel is better for pace, rather than a lengthy one like this.
April 30, 2020
Not my usual read and won't read any more fiona walker books but the 650 pages filled some time whilst in isolation.....
June 9, 2012
So im sitting in at Changi Airport in Singapore for a few hours and i am bored out of my mind so i go on the hunt to find something to read. I quickly discover the book store at the airport does not have a wide range but after 20 minutes of searching i came across the love letter and thought this will keep me entertained for my 4 hour flight. And it did. I enjoyed the love interests / complication between conrad, legs, jago, gordon, francis and on it goes and i enjoyed the whole weathy english with freaky complicated family life and etc. I did NOT enjoyed how long legs let things go before she would act. She wasn't happy with conrad for chapters but didn't do anything...She didn't tell francis how she felt even though she wasn't happy with him or the situations for like half the book and she didn't say anything to francis and his family when they were all making decisions for her....she is a grown woman...thought she would have had a brain and made her own decisions. But by the end of the book she finially wakes up and makes all the right choices...in my opinion anyway. I gave this book three stars as i thought it was much to long for the story line. Seemed like we were repeating the same thing in the middle and i admit ti scimming through some sections as it was just boring the hell out of me. The main characters of legs and jago were good. I admit to liking jago a lot more, for obvious reason.
Overal an good read. Three stars
Overal an good read. Three stars
August 22, 2012
This book starts with one hell of an opener, successfully, and cleverly, getting you hooked almost immediately. The characters are entirely believable, with Abbott giving you enough information on each so you either sympathize or feel full of disdain. Narrating parts of the book through a series of letters is a real attention holder – you’ll find yourself becoming increasingly eager for the contents of next one to be divulged.
The plot has more twists and turns than a roller coaster but is never predictable. Some of the secrets revealed are show stoppers, with the tension mounting slowly but surely towards the climax. As far as psychological thrillers go, this one’s pretty special and will leave you mulling over whether the innocent should indeed be protected, or punished. Let us know your thoughts.
The plot has more twists and turns than a roller coaster but is never predictable. Some of the secrets revealed are show stoppers, with the tension mounting slowly but surely towards the climax. As far as psychological thrillers go, this one’s pretty special and will leave you mulling over whether the innocent should indeed be protected, or punished. Let us know your thoughts.
June 3, 2012
This is a long book and it took me ages to read, but it really wasn't worth it. I don't like to be defeated by a book so carried on, but should have given up.
It rambles all over the place, there are too many characters milling around and plot threads are dropped and picked up at random (when they're picked up at all). It has a heroine who is of the "silly girl" class of character all too often found in chicklit i.e. she's clumsy, gets herself in scrapes and accidents and relies on men to save her.
I'd never read any of Fiona Walker's books before, and on this example, I won't be reading any of them in future.
It rambles all over the place, there are too many characters milling around and plot threads are dropped and picked up at random (when they're picked up at all). It has a heroine who is of the "silly girl" class of character all too often found in chicklit i.e. she's clumsy, gets herself in scrapes and accidents and relies on men to save her.
I'd never read any of Fiona Walker's books before, and on this example, I won't be reading any of them in future.
July 6, 2012
I was lucky enough to win this in a blog competition, and I was so excited about reading it. I absolutely loved this book!! Don't let the size of the book put you off, it really is an absorbing read. I loved the characters, some of the characters are so eccentric they are funny and I did laugh out loud several times in the book :)
I was so sad when the book ended, I found I didn't want to leave them - I am still now thinking about them, and wondering what they are up to.
I really wish that there could be some sort of after story, so that we can catch up with the characters.
I would highly recommend this book :)
I was so sad when the book ended, I found I didn't want to leave them - I am still now thinking about them, and wondering what they are up to.
I really wish that there could be some sort of after story, so that we can catch up with the characters.
I would highly recommend this book :)
April 1, 2013
This book was perfect for a long weekend. A rollicking romp, the best kind of brit-chick-lit - a crazy family, a gorgeous if slightly batty heroine, a mysterious irishman and a big house in the country. It's not great literature but it's perfect to snuggle up with. I didn't even care that I'd guessed the major plot turn within the first few chapters. Fiona Walker's books are always entertaining - although fairly formulaic and the girl has borrowed more than a few pointers from Jilly Cooper. An easy, slightly silly read.
June 28, 2019
It's not very often I can't put a book down but... I couldn't put this book down much to my children's annoyance! This is a very well written book with an interesting, interwoven plot that keeps you hooked all the way to the end. The characters are vivid, interesting and very easy to visualise with the detail Ms Walker goes into about each one. My favourites were Poppy and Hector being very large, eccentric characters but I myself could easily have fallen in love with Byrne or Gordon with their wonderful humour and burning through you eyes. Ms Walker, thank you for this book. I haven't been so swept up in a story for a very long time. I'd love a sequel to this one
October 10, 2020
Having read the mixed reviews on this book I wasn't sure if I would like it. However, I ploughed into it and loved it. I've had three hours sleep because I couldn't put it down last night, only to pick it straight up this morning (alongside strong coffee) to finish it.
It was a slow starter, but about a third of the way in it was compelling, I had to know what happened and who Legs was going to end up with. Who was Gordon Lapis? There are so many questions to be answered and they are all woven together with great skill.
Enjoyable read.
It was a slow starter, but about a third of the way in it was compelling, I had to know what happened and who Legs was going to end up with. Who was Gordon Lapis? There are so many questions to be answered and they are all woven together with great skill.
Enjoyable read.
August 14, 2022
Had kept this for light reading on holiday but at times felt I may give up as it was so long winded .
The editor for Fiona really hasn’t done her any favours as there are huge chunks that could be discarded as it lapses into self indulgence -I did find myself skipping pages particularly in the pneumonia section .
The proofreading also not up to standard which I have found from this publisher in the past .
Loved Fiona Walker’s first two books , enjoyed some of her others but disappointed with this offering and may be more rigorous in my pre- reading and vetting of her latest books .
The editor for Fiona really hasn’t done her any favours as there are huge chunks that could be discarded as it lapses into self indulgence -I did find myself skipping pages particularly in the pneumonia section .
The proofreading also not up to standard which I have found from this publisher in the past .
Loved Fiona Walker’s first two books , enjoyed some of her others but disappointed with this offering and may be more rigorous in my pre- reading and vetting of her latest books .
July 29, 2020
I've had a strange relationship with this book.......in parts I couldn't put it down and it seemed exciting and I was dying to know what happened and in other parts it dragged. I loved the plot of the story and liked the majority of the characters but feel it was just too long and couldn't hold the flow of the story for the duration of the book.
January 5, 2018
Plodded on through book felt a lifetime. Kept leaving it to read others
March 3, 2019
Fine if you like that kind of cheery, convoluted fluff but MAN the "har har, she used to be a man" joke got tedious.
June 22, 2019
Storyline really pulls you in, I couldn't stop reading!
Much better than I was expecting.
Much better than I was expecting.
October 2, 2019
It was a slow starter (took a month to finish) but the story gradually drew me in.
September 4, 2020
Great story, interesting characters, great plots and sub-plots, comedy and romance.
May 16, 2012
It's been a good few years since I have managed to pick up a Fiona Walker novel, having devoured several of them when I first began reading chick lit a good few years ago now. When I was sent a copy of Fiona's latest book The Love Letter for reviewing as part of her new blog tour, I was curious to once again try another of Fiona's books and see how good it was. I was surprised by how big a book it was, at over 650 pages it isn't a short read, and with a fairly small type as well, it did take me quite a while to read it. Even though I did enjoy parts of it, I felt it was far too long, there were too many characters and too much going on all at the same time, and I found myself having to force myself to pick up the book to read it sometimes, as it felt I was plodding along all too slowly and I was waiting for something a bit exciting to happen! Luckily it picked up towards the end but was it a case of too little, too late?
Allegra North was madly in love with her childhood sweetheart Francis, but after a few bad decisions, the pair parted under bad circumstances and Allegra wrote him a letter, a love letter if you will. When her job at a London literary agency brings her back to Devon and into the Farcombe household once more, how will she find it being submerged back into Francis' life once more? And exactly what effect is the mysterious successful author Gordon Lapis going to have on Allegra and her relationship with Francis and his family? Is she going to be able to pull off trying to recreate a friendship with Francis as well as fulfilling her work commitments to reveal author Lapis at the Farcombe's literary festival?
Straight away, I had a feeling I would struggle to get along with this book, although I can't really put my finger on why. Quite a few characters are all introduced together, and I found it a little bit confusing to keep up with who was who until it was all solidified in my head a little bit. There's Allegra's family, her friends, her boss Conrad at the agency, and Francis and co who live at Farcombe, as well as author Gordon Lapis and his PA. That's quite a big cast list, and for a while, the Farcombe's especially started to blend into each other and I had to keep real tabs on who was who, who was with who and what exactly was going on. The only people I didn't confuse were Allegra, Gordon, Jago and Francis! Once they were in my mind, it was okay but it took quite a bit of the book for me to get to that state.
The characters were well written enough, but I have to confess to not warming to Allegra, or Legs as she is annoyingly referred to throughout the book. I found her to be a bit too annoying for me, always flying about doing something or other and not able to tell people, Francis in particular, her true feelings. I wanted to shout at her to grow up a bit and just be happy and do what she had to do to get there, regardless of who it may hurt in the process. I also really disliked Francis, he seemed like such a slimy character, some in it to only get what he could out of a situation and not a genuine person at all. My favourite by far was Jago Byrne, a character who appears halfway through and throws the whole scenario up in the air, but he was a breath of fresh air, and I loved him. I wish more of them had been like Jago to tell the truth!
As I mentioned, the book is over 650 pages long, and if I am honest, it really did feel like it. It dragged in places, and it seemed like some of the narrative was just there to bulk it up a bit and I felt myself skim reading these parts, waiting for it to get back to the action as it were. I found the final 1/3 of the book to really good, it picked up pace and got exciting, and I found myself really getting into it, but I just wish it had come sooner because this part really was good. Overall, I felt The Love Letter was a good read, but it suffered with being too long, with narrative that went on way too much and could have done with losing at least 100 pages from it, and getting to the last part far quicker! Yes, Walker's writing is good and she creates a large cast of characters with ease, some of them better than others, but for me the good bits were lost too much in the fact I struggled to motivate myself to read it every time I picked it up, and the confusion over the many characters in the book. It's a good read, but you have to have time and patience to follow it through to the end!
Allegra North was madly in love with her childhood sweetheart Francis, but after a few bad decisions, the pair parted under bad circumstances and Allegra wrote him a letter, a love letter if you will. When her job at a London literary agency brings her back to Devon and into the Farcombe household once more, how will she find it being submerged back into Francis' life once more? And exactly what effect is the mysterious successful author Gordon Lapis going to have on Allegra and her relationship with Francis and his family? Is she going to be able to pull off trying to recreate a friendship with Francis as well as fulfilling her work commitments to reveal author Lapis at the Farcombe's literary festival?
Straight away, I had a feeling I would struggle to get along with this book, although I can't really put my finger on why. Quite a few characters are all introduced together, and I found it a little bit confusing to keep up with who was who until it was all solidified in my head a little bit. There's Allegra's family, her friends, her boss Conrad at the agency, and Francis and co who live at Farcombe, as well as author Gordon Lapis and his PA. That's quite a big cast list, and for a while, the Farcombe's especially started to blend into each other and I had to keep real tabs on who was who, who was with who and what exactly was going on. The only people I didn't confuse were Allegra, Gordon, Jago and Francis! Once they were in my mind, it was okay but it took quite a bit of the book for me to get to that state.
The characters were well written enough, but I have to confess to not warming to Allegra, or Legs as she is annoyingly referred to throughout the book. I found her to be a bit too annoying for me, always flying about doing something or other and not able to tell people, Francis in particular, her true feelings. I wanted to shout at her to grow up a bit and just be happy and do what she had to do to get there, regardless of who it may hurt in the process. I also really disliked Francis, he seemed like such a slimy character, some in it to only get what he could out of a situation and not a genuine person at all. My favourite by far was Jago Byrne, a character who appears halfway through and throws the whole scenario up in the air, but he was a breath of fresh air, and I loved him. I wish more of them had been like Jago to tell the truth!
As I mentioned, the book is over 650 pages long, and if I am honest, it really did feel like it. It dragged in places, and it seemed like some of the narrative was just there to bulk it up a bit and I felt myself skim reading these parts, waiting for it to get back to the action as it were. I found the final 1/3 of the book to really good, it picked up pace and got exciting, and I found myself really getting into it, but I just wish it had come sooner because this part really was good. Overall, I felt The Love Letter was a good read, but it suffered with being too long, with narrative that went on way too much and could have done with losing at least 100 pages from it, and getting to the last part far quicker! Yes, Walker's writing is good and she creates a large cast of characters with ease, some of them better than others, but for me the good bits were lost too much in the fact I struggled to motivate myself to read it every time I picked it up, and the confusion over the many characters in the book. It's a good read, but you have to have time and patience to follow it through to the end!
October 10, 2022
I enjoyed this book! Perfect if you're after a light-hearted rom-com. Sometimes it felt slightly dragged out and I found myself getting a bit annoyed with the main character at times, but it's filled with funny moments and romance and I got into it pretty quickly - finishing it in just under a week.
October 20, 2012
Chick-lit at its very best. Fiona Walker understands the workings of the heart perfectly, in this captivating read.
I am a huge fan of Fiona Walker as an avid reader of this genre and an equestrian enthusiast, with her other books such as Kiss and Tell and Love Hunt being very much favorites of mine. Her warm, witty style and loveable characters make her stories come to life, as you loose yourself within their world for a moment in time. This beautiful book is a real treat, with its stunning cover and lush interior making it something quite special that which stands-out on any bookshelf. I love how the Sun newspaper sums Fiona’s book up in just two words; deliciously naughty (which I feel is exactly right!).
Allegra North splits up with her longstanding first love Francis with much regret, recording her feelings onto paper in the form of a letter. With no reply he is forgotten and Allegra continues with her life, until a year later she returns to where it all began in picturesque Devon by the sea. This was where their romance blossomed and now where she hopes to start a fresh and begin a new chapter of her life. A family crisis fans the old flames from the start, and sparks fly when a chance encounter makes Allegra question whether Francis was ever really on the same page. However as summer storms come and go, her parents become difficult and rebellious along with vengeful family members it is all not as straightforward as she thought. Then there appears a celebrity author who seems to hold the key to everyone’s future including Allegra’s.
This wonderful comedy of mistaken identities, new love and old flames is a delight to behold and something that I can grantee you will find hard to put down. It is deliciously naughty in the sense of that it could be comparable to a Jilly Cooper or other great chick-lit writers such as Sophie Kinsella, Lauren Weisberger or Cecelia Ahern. It is a magnificent tale set within the country that is full of rivalry (family and romantic), sex and deep jealousy. Truly gripping and full of intense drama, you will find the Love Letter emotionally stirring and captivating from beginning to end. This is just a great read that truly blew me away, raising the standard high for this genre and surpassing all expectations that I had prior to reading it. I continue to love Fiona Walker’s work and her effortless style that captures the hearts and minds of so many readers, who enjoy a book that you can really loose yourself within. It is written in a conversational (even colloquial style, but not slang rather more informal) style at times that helps the reader to connect with the characters, as if they are real people in our world that is totally relevant to the modern-age. A contemporary look at love and the dysfunctional family, that is believable and honest and which I personally feel Fiona Walker has captured precisely in a nutshell. If you are a aficionado of this genre then I urge you to read and discover Fiona Walker’s work that I truly believe to be of the highest caliber upon the chick-lit shelf, and add it to your collection of books to take with you on holiday or the beach. A perfect winter’s evening would be sitting by a fire huddled under a warm blanket reading Fiona Walker’s The Love Letter.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Carol (aka Dizzy C) for having Fiona’s book on one of her book blog giveaways, which I concider myself extremely lucky and fortunate to have won. This book is a real gem and just a spectacular read.
I am a huge fan of Fiona Walker as an avid reader of this genre and an equestrian enthusiast, with her other books such as Kiss and Tell and Love Hunt being very much favorites of mine. Her warm, witty style and loveable characters make her stories come to life, as you loose yourself within their world for a moment in time. This beautiful book is a real treat, with its stunning cover and lush interior making it something quite special that which stands-out on any bookshelf. I love how the Sun newspaper sums Fiona’s book up in just two words; deliciously naughty (which I feel is exactly right!).
Allegra North splits up with her longstanding first love Francis with much regret, recording her feelings onto paper in the form of a letter. With no reply he is forgotten and Allegra continues with her life, until a year later she returns to where it all began in picturesque Devon by the sea. This was where their romance blossomed and now where she hopes to start a fresh and begin a new chapter of her life. A family crisis fans the old flames from the start, and sparks fly when a chance encounter makes Allegra question whether Francis was ever really on the same page. However as summer storms come and go, her parents become difficult and rebellious along with vengeful family members it is all not as straightforward as she thought. Then there appears a celebrity author who seems to hold the key to everyone’s future including Allegra’s.
This wonderful comedy of mistaken identities, new love and old flames is a delight to behold and something that I can grantee you will find hard to put down. It is deliciously naughty in the sense of that it could be comparable to a Jilly Cooper or other great chick-lit writers such as Sophie Kinsella, Lauren Weisberger or Cecelia Ahern. It is a magnificent tale set within the country that is full of rivalry (family and romantic), sex and deep jealousy. Truly gripping and full of intense drama, you will find the Love Letter emotionally stirring and captivating from beginning to end. This is just a great read that truly blew me away, raising the standard high for this genre and surpassing all expectations that I had prior to reading it. I continue to love Fiona Walker’s work and her effortless style that captures the hearts and minds of so many readers, who enjoy a book that you can really loose yourself within. It is written in a conversational (even colloquial style, but not slang rather more informal) style at times that helps the reader to connect with the characters, as if they are real people in our world that is totally relevant to the modern-age. A contemporary look at love and the dysfunctional family, that is believable and honest and which I personally feel Fiona Walker has captured precisely in a nutshell. If you are a aficionado of this genre then I urge you to read and discover Fiona Walker’s work that I truly believe to be of the highest caliber upon the chick-lit shelf, and add it to your collection of books to take with you on holiday or the beach. A perfect winter’s evening would be sitting by a fire huddled under a warm blanket reading Fiona Walker’s The Love Letter.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Carol (aka Dizzy C) for having Fiona’s book on one of her book blog giveaways, which I concider myself extremely lucky and fortunate to have won. This book is a real gem and just a spectacular read.
May 6, 2012
When Allegra North parted from first love Francis after a decade together, she poured all her regret into a letter. He didn’t reply. A year later her job brings her back to beautiful Devon coast where romance first blossomed and she hopes they can start a new chapter.
A family crisis fans the old flames from the start, and sparks fly when a chance encounter makes Allegra question whether Francis was ever really on the same page. As summer storms circle, the exes juggle rebellious parents, vengeful family members, and a very reluctant celebrity author who holds the key to everyone’s future. Just when Allegra thinks she can’t blot her copy book any further, she finds herself held to ransom by her own love letter. Should she read between the lines, or is the writing on the wall?
This is the first book I have read by Fiona Walker and I have to say when it was arrived I was shocked at the size of the book. Sealed With a Kiss is a prequel e-book to The Love Letter which is set 12 months before this book. I didn’t read the prequel which introduces you to the characters and involves the same letter that The Love Letter is about. For those of you who do not have an e-reader please do not be put off reading The Love Letter if you cannot read Sealed With a Kiss as I still found that the author develops each of the characters beautifully in this book so you can follow who everyone is without feeling like you are missing out on something. There is such a vast amount of characters in this book some that I loved and some I found I had my guard up around.
I did struggle with the first quarter of the book I found it was a very slow start and I found myself picking the book up and putting it back down it just didn’t seem to grip my attention. I am glad to say after the slow start to the book things began to pick up and I found myself flicking through the pages as the pace of the book increased and the air of mystery finally caught my attention.
There seemed to be so many things going on in this book it really is action packed. I did find that from early on in the book I had my suspicions as to who the writer Gordon Lapis really was and my suspicions were right but it was great to watch the truth unfold. Although I predicted this part of the book there were still many twists and turns coming to light throughout the book. I did enjoy this book but I do feel that it didn’t need to be as long as it was.
I would definitely read another book by Fiona Walker again as she does have a lovely style of writing but I just hope that the next book doesn’t feel so drawn out, sometimes less really is more.
A family crisis fans the old flames from the start, and sparks fly when a chance encounter makes Allegra question whether Francis was ever really on the same page. As summer storms circle, the exes juggle rebellious parents, vengeful family members, and a very reluctant celebrity author who holds the key to everyone’s future. Just when Allegra thinks she can’t blot her copy book any further, she finds herself held to ransom by her own love letter. Should she read between the lines, or is the writing on the wall?
This is the first book I have read by Fiona Walker and I have to say when it was arrived I was shocked at the size of the book. Sealed With a Kiss is a prequel e-book to The Love Letter which is set 12 months before this book. I didn’t read the prequel which introduces you to the characters and involves the same letter that The Love Letter is about. For those of you who do not have an e-reader please do not be put off reading The Love Letter if you cannot read Sealed With a Kiss as I still found that the author develops each of the characters beautifully in this book so you can follow who everyone is without feeling like you are missing out on something. There is such a vast amount of characters in this book some that I loved and some I found I had my guard up around.
I did struggle with the first quarter of the book I found it was a very slow start and I found myself picking the book up and putting it back down it just didn’t seem to grip my attention. I am glad to say after the slow start to the book things began to pick up and I found myself flicking through the pages as the pace of the book increased and the air of mystery finally caught my attention.
There seemed to be so many things going on in this book it really is action packed. I did find that from early on in the book I had my suspicions as to who the writer Gordon Lapis really was and my suspicions were right but it was great to watch the truth unfold. Although I predicted this part of the book there were still many twists and turns coming to light throughout the book. I did enjoy this book but I do feel that it didn’t need to be as long as it was.
I would definitely read another book by Fiona Walker again as she does have a lovely style of writing but I just hope that the next book doesn’t feel so drawn out, sometimes less really is more.
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February 21, 2017 I don't like giving up on books but at page 106, this just isn't appealing to me enough to tackle a further 559 pages of convoluted & uninteresting relationships, nevermind put up with the stupid name Legs.
July 8, 2012
I was lucky enough to win this book from a giveaway on Sarah’s Book Reviews.
It begins with various emails being sent back and forth, I love books that have emails and texts etc in them because it always makes me feel like I’m getting a more personal view of a character.
I liked the sound of the synopsis but honestly I feel like it doesn’t actually do the book justice, I quickly realised that it wasn’t at all what I expected and it was in fact miles better! Occasionally I found that I was a little bit unsure about what was going on but once I figured it out I discovered a very funny and totally unputdownable book. I was surprised to find myself thinking about the characters when I was trying to do every day things – I practically ran home from taking the kids to school so I could read more.
Allegra was a brilliant main character, she was funny, flirty and outspoken, all of which made her a great character to read about. The banter between her and the other characters was one of my favourite parts of this story. In particular, her chats (usually via email) with the intriguing and mysterious Gordon were something I really enjoyed.
Things became very complicated for Allegra when she went back to Farcombe, a shocking discovery at her family’s holiday home and a bizarre request from her ex are just a couple of the disasters she faces on her arrival. Throw in a confusing encounter with a mysterious Irish man known only as Mr Byrne and things really spiral from there.
I found all of the characters interesting, especially the eccentric ones, during the many unexpected twists and turns there were times when everyone actually seemed slightly crazy and I absolutely loved that, it really made me laugh!
I couldn’t wait for the day of the festival to arrive but before it did there were so many exciting, funny and surprising moments that had me turning page after page. I didn’t want the book to finish but when it did I felt that it ended in a good way with no questions left unanswered.
A fun and intriguing book that captured my interest from start to finish.
It begins with various emails being sent back and forth, I love books that have emails and texts etc in them because it always makes me feel like I’m getting a more personal view of a character.
I liked the sound of the synopsis but honestly I feel like it doesn’t actually do the book justice, I quickly realised that it wasn’t at all what I expected and it was in fact miles better! Occasionally I found that I was a little bit unsure about what was going on but once I figured it out I discovered a very funny and totally unputdownable book. I was surprised to find myself thinking about the characters when I was trying to do every day things – I practically ran home from taking the kids to school so I could read more.
Allegra was a brilliant main character, she was funny, flirty and outspoken, all of which made her a great character to read about. The banter between her and the other characters was one of my favourite parts of this story. In particular, her chats (usually via email) with the intriguing and mysterious Gordon were something I really enjoyed.
Things became very complicated for Allegra when she went back to Farcombe, a shocking discovery at her family’s holiday home and a bizarre request from her ex are just a couple of the disasters she faces on her arrival. Throw in a confusing encounter with a mysterious Irish man known only as Mr Byrne and things really spiral from there.
I found all of the characters interesting, especially the eccentric ones, during the many unexpected twists and turns there were times when everyone actually seemed slightly crazy and I absolutely loved that, it really made me laugh!
I couldn’t wait for the day of the festival to arrive but before it did there were so many exciting, funny and surprising moments that had me turning page after page. I didn’t want the book to finish but when it did I felt that it ended in a good way with no questions left unanswered.
A fun and intriguing book that captured my interest from start to finish.
November 6, 2012
When Allegra North parted from first love Francis after a decade together, she poured all her regret into a letter. He didn't reply. A year later, her job brings her back to the beautiful Devon coast where romance first blossomed and she hopes that they can start a new chapter.
As summer storms circle, the exes juggle rebellious parents, vengeful family members and a very reluctant celebrity author who holds the key to everybody's future . . .
I have to admit it took me quite a while to get into the book and I found myself struggling. There were a lot of characters and their histories to absorb all at once and, if I'm honest, I didn't think I would make it to the end.
But I perservered and then, quite suddenly, I became hooked. It was at approximately 150 pages in, but as the book is quite a hefty one at over 600 pages, I still had plenty of book left to enjoy. I was drawn into Farcombe and the many twists, turns and mysteries surrounding the Protheroe family.
I found Allegra (aka Legs) to be a fun, flirty character and I loved both the budding friendship with author Gordon Lapis and the tension between her and Byrne.
I'd already read Sealed With a Kiss, the short story prequel to The Love Letter but both are stand alone stories in their own right so it isn't essential to read both, although it did add further insight into both the letter and Legs' relationships with Francis and her boss, Conrad.
As summer storms circle, the exes juggle rebellious parents, vengeful family members and a very reluctant celebrity author who holds the key to everybody's future . . .
I have to admit it took me quite a while to get into the book and I found myself struggling. There were a lot of characters and their histories to absorb all at once and, if I'm honest, I didn't think I would make it to the end.
But I perservered and then, quite suddenly, I became hooked. It was at approximately 150 pages in, but as the book is quite a hefty one at over 600 pages, I still had plenty of book left to enjoy. I was drawn into Farcombe and the many twists, turns and mysteries surrounding the Protheroe family.
I found Allegra (aka Legs) to be a fun, flirty character and I loved both the budding friendship with author Gordon Lapis and the tension between her and Byrne.
I'd already read Sealed With a Kiss, the short story prequel to The Love Letter but both are stand alone stories in their own right so it isn't essential to read both, although it did add further insight into both the letter and Legs' relationships with Francis and her boss, Conrad.
July 22, 2012
I was nicely surprised by this book as although I was expecting chick lit, what I got was much more than that!
This story follows Allegra (Legs) when she meets her ex-fiance for the first time since they split to try and get one of the literary agency she works for's clients on the bill at the Arts Festival held on the land of his family pile, Farcombe.
I found the book quite slow to start, but most enjoyed the story about Legs' relationship with her client, the anonymous author Gordon Lapis, and the build up to the unveiling of his identity at the Farcombe festival. The book had intricate family linkages and some real laugh out loud moments. I particularly laughed at some of Legs' mishaps as she was rather accident prone.
The downsides to this book were that I found that in some parts it was a bit overwritten and had a tendency to repeat some rather pretentious phrases throughout the book. I also found that some of the romance in the book was quite gratuitous and unrealistic and felt like it had been added in just to make it chick lit. I understand that a certain amount of romance was integral to the story, but I think that some of the scenes could have been left out without affecting the feel of the story.
All in all a good read with an interesting slant on the literary world. I would recommend as a fun holiday read.
This story follows Allegra (Legs) when she meets her ex-fiance for the first time since they split to try and get one of the literary agency she works for's clients on the bill at the Arts Festival held on the land of his family pile, Farcombe.
I found the book quite slow to start, but most enjoyed the story about Legs' relationship with her client, the anonymous author Gordon Lapis, and the build up to the unveiling of his identity at the Farcombe festival. The book had intricate family linkages and some real laugh out loud moments. I particularly laughed at some of Legs' mishaps as she was rather accident prone.
The downsides to this book were that I found that in some parts it was a bit overwritten and had a tendency to repeat some rather pretentious phrases throughout the book. I also found that some of the romance in the book was quite gratuitous and unrealistic and felt like it had been added in just to make it chick lit. I understand that a certain amount of romance was integral to the story, but I think that some of the scenes could have been left out without affecting the feel of the story.
All in all a good read with an interesting slant on the literary world. I would recommend as a fun holiday read.
July 25, 2016
To be quite honest here, I had forgotten I had it in my library. I was looking to get something with me through a long trip and I realised that I never actually read it, so I decided, why not? Apparently, I'd believed that it would be a total waste of time.
In reality though, I stayed up *all* night to finish it. The blurb is quite deceiving. I went in thinking it's a romance book but it turned out a quirky, light thriller, with lots of fun moments.
I can hear you think, wtf is a "light thriller" ? Well, nice of you to ask. In my mind it has all the signs and execution of a thriller, yet it keeps the action more positive, the characters with a twist of romance and the classic "happily ever after" characteristics found in any decent romance book.
In a nutshell, I approved the romance, the mystery, the action, the, the.... It was a very enjoyable book and a nice idea for long distance travels, where all you want is something titilating but sweet enough to keep from falling asleep.
Hope you like it as much as I did!
In reality though, I stayed up *all* night to finish it. The blurb is quite deceiving. I went in thinking it's a romance book but it turned out a quirky, light thriller, with lots of fun moments.
I can hear you think, wtf is a "light thriller" ? Well, nice of you to ask. In my mind it has all the signs and execution of a thriller, yet it keeps the action more positive, the characters with a twist of romance and the classic "happily ever after" characteristics found in any decent romance book.
In a nutshell, I approved the romance, the mystery, the action, the, the.... It was a very enjoyable book and a nice idea for long distance travels, where all you want is something titilating but sweet enough to keep from falling asleep.
Hope you like it as much as I did!
August 21, 2012
While I enjoyed the book, I did pick it up as a light read and found it to be a bit too long for me. I think the story takes a little while to pick up and i did lose a bit of interest by the end. If it were just a little shorter I imagine i would have gotten into the story a bitt better. However, maybe the length was needed as this is a tale where there are a lot of characters thrown at you in one go and it took me a little while to get to grips with the different relationships. While I didn't fully connect with the main character Allegra, I found her relationship with the mysterious author via messaging to be the most entertaining and would maybe have liked a bit more focus on that side of things. The story doesn't really start until the Allegra goes to her old home. Once there, though I didn't really understand the need for all the twists and turn, there were certainly enough of them to keep the book moving along.
June 16, 2012
Last few chapters to read and I have to say I love this book. The intrigue, situations and extremely eccentric characters has made this book a joy to read. Legs aka as Allegra has been a delightful character and Jago a lovely leading man with so many sides to him that it's hard to keep track of. This book has been a fun, exciting and occasionally confusing read as the plot has twisted and turned.
Fiona Walker has again written a wonderful read and I would recommend this book to everybody who likes books written by her or Jilly Cooper fans, as I'm sure they will love Fiona's style of writing too.
Pick this book up and enjoy traveling through London, Devon and Ireland especially the Wicklow Mountains. This book takes you far, but makes you feel homely and comfortable at the same time as you join Legs in her escapades!
December 3, 2012
Allegra known as "Legs" to many embarks on her journey of life.Moving to the city for employment she moves into her sisters basement apartment and becomes enmeshed in her sibling and Nico her adored nephews problems.
The dream job becomes uncomfortable when Legs becomes a pawn in the selfish games of her boss.
Uneasy with speaking up for herself the sensitive Legs is used by her family and friends to further their cause. An old boyfriend arrives on the scene having been the recipient of a love letter and hopes to rekindle the past. Meanwhile Legs is trying to keep a difficult client happy to hold onto her job. Mayhem ensues as family,friends and her boss attend a festival that's fraught with danger and intrigue as the players strive for their own outcome. Allegra must make some difficult decisions as to whom is important in this farce and is she just as important herself.
The dream job becomes uncomfortable when Legs becomes a pawn in the selfish games of her boss.
Uneasy with speaking up for herself the sensitive Legs is used by her family and friends to further their cause. An old boyfriend arrives on the scene having been the recipient of a love letter and hopes to rekindle the past. Meanwhile Legs is trying to keep a difficult client happy to hold onto her job. Mayhem ensues as family,friends and her boss attend a festival that's fraught with danger and intrigue as the players strive for their own outcome. Allegra must make some difficult decisions as to whom is important in this farce and is she just as important herself.
June 13, 2014
While the first half was interspersed with too much passive explanation going into thoughts and detail that tipped the narrative over onto the inane and boring, the plot quickly picked up pace and developed beautifully in parallel with our protagonist Allegra's relationship with the mysterious and elusively gruff Gordon Lapis. I started with rating the book through first half as a mundane 3-ish and ended up delving in sigh-inducing and throat-choking-with-emotions moments summoning impulses of 4.5-ish ratings.
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