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The Whittiers
In this heartwarming novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Danielle Steel, adult siblings find their way back home—and back to each other—after loss.
Preston and Constance Whittier have built a happy life together, with a brood of six children raised in a beautiful historic Manhattan mansion. Now, with a nearly empty nest, it’s easier than ever for the Whittiers to maintain their tradition of a solo romantic “Wintermoon” ski trip.
But with this year’s trip comes tragedy, and suddenly the Whittier’s adult children find themselves reuniting in the family home without their parents for the first time ever. The oldest, Lyle, is reaching a breaking point in his marriage and must decide whether a divorce would be best for him and his two children. Gloria’s big job on Wall Street has kept her single at thirty-nine, and growing ever more cynical. The twins, Caroline and Charlie, moved out long ago to start a fashion business that may now be faltering. Benjie, with special needs, is hit hard by the loss of his parents and needs his siblings’ help. And Annabelle, the youngest, drops out of college and starts to spin out of control.
The eldest four are forced to put aside their personal issues and their grief to keep the family together and support each other and their two youngest siblings. Selling the house, along with all the memories that live in its walls, feels like yet another devastating loss. Could there be another way, as unconventional as it seems?
Preston and Constance Whittier have built a happy life together, with a brood of six children raised in a beautiful historic Manhattan mansion. Now, with a nearly empty nest, it’s easier than ever for the Whittiers to maintain their tradition of a solo romantic “Wintermoon” ski trip.
But with this year’s trip comes tragedy, and suddenly the Whittier’s adult children find themselves reuniting in the family home without their parents for the first time ever. The oldest, Lyle, is reaching a breaking point in his marriage and must decide whether a divorce would be best for him and his two children. Gloria’s big job on Wall Street has kept her single at thirty-nine, and growing ever more cynical. The twins, Caroline and Charlie, moved out long ago to start a fashion business that may now be faltering. Benjie, with special needs, is hit hard by the loss of his parents and needs his siblings’ help. And Annabelle, the youngest, drops out of college and starts to spin out of control.
The eldest four are forced to put aside their personal issues and their grief to keep the family together and support each other and their two youngest siblings. Selling the house, along with all the memories that live in its walls, feels like yet another devastating loss. Could there be another way, as unconventional as it seems?
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First published November 22, 2022
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About the author
Danielle Steel
917 books16.9k 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,035 reviews
November 29, 2022
This one didn't work for me. The "telling instead of showing" is a lot, even for Ms. Steel, who is known for it. One of the characters is so far over the top as to make her cartoonish--another Cruella Deville. It's just not believable. The whole plot was pretty bland and not up to Ms. Steel's usual standards. There was no real emotion in the writing even though this family had just lost their parents.
Although I have enjoyed many of Ms. Steel's books over the years, I cannot recommend this one.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
Although I have enjoyed many of Ms. Steel's books over the years, I cannot recommend this one.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
November 30, 2022
Another repetitive and dreadful DS book. Once again, it needed an editor because her writing just sucks. Her novels follow the “tell, don’t show” way of writing, so her readers never get to form our own opinions of her characters and the flimsy plots. Instead, DS tells the reader over and over and over and over again about the characters (and how smart and attractive they are) and provides a lot of irrelevant details.
The plot to this book - a rich family in NYC with 6 adult kids suffers an unexpected tragedy, and some other ones too. But in the course of a year, all find amazing partners in love and their professional lives become wonderful and cue the flowers and happy music. Because love conquers all for DS and it’s even better when her characters have oodles of money and don’t have to worry about such mundane things as student loans and health insurance. Yada, yada, yada.
The plot to this book - a rich family in NYC with 6 adult kids suffers an unexpected tragedy, and some other ones too. But in the course of a year, all find amazing partners in love and their professional lives become wonderful and cue the flowers and happy music. Because love conquers all for DS and it’s even better when her characters have oodles of money and don’t have to worry about such mundane things as student loans and health insurance. Yada, yada, yada.
July 2, 2022
Name of Book: The Whittiers
Author: Danielle Steel
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group ~ Ballantine
Genre: Chick Lit
Pub Date: November 22, 2022
My Rating: 4 Stars
Story centers on the close knit ‘Whittier family’: parents Preston and Constance and their six adult children: Lyle is the oldest at 42, Gloria 39, twins Charlie and Caroline 33, Benjie 28 and Annabella is 21.
As the beautiful cover indicates winter is special. Every year after Christmas, Preston and Connie go on a trip ~ the children call it their Parent’s “Wintermoon”! This year they went skiing in France ~ unfortunately there was a deadly avalanche.
The unexpected death of their parents has drawn them even closer as they need the emotional and physical support of each other. The parents left the fourteen bedroom family estate to the children thinking they will sell and divide the profits. They however, don’t want to sell as this was their childhood home. Benjie in particular does not want to leave the home where he has so much security; being on the autism spectrum, bordering on Asperger’s he is not comfortable with change.
Story kept me interesting. I just loved Benjie and Caro. It was a quick read certainly not my twisty psychological thriller but a nice read that left me with a smile on my face!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group ~ Ballantine for granting my wish!
This file has been made available to me in an early form.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for November 22, 2022
Author: Danielle Steel
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group ~ Ballantine
Genre: Chick Lit
Pub Date: November 22, 2022
My Rating: 4 Stars
Story centers on the close knit ‘Whittier family’: parents Preston and Constance and their six adult children: Lyle is the oldest at 42, Gloria 39, twins Charlie and Caroline 33, Benjie 28 and Annabella is 21.
As the beautiful cover indicates winter is special. Every year after Christmas, Preston and Connie go on a trip ~ the children call it their Parent’s “Wintermoon”! This year they went skiing in France ~ unfortunately there was a deadly avalanche.
The unexpected death of their parents has drawn them even closer as they need the emotional and physical support of each other. The parents left the fourteen bedroom family estate to the children thinking they will sell and divide the profits. They however, don’t want to sell as this was their childhood home. Benjie in particular does not want to leave the home where he has so much security; being on the autism spectrum, bordering on Asperger’s he is not comfortable with change.
Story kept me interesting. I just loved Benjie and Caro. It was a quick read certainly not my twisty psychological thriller but a nice read that left me with a smile on my face!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group ~ Ballantine for granting my wish!
This file has been made available to me in an early form.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for November 22, 2022
November 22, 2022
I keep hoping that Danielle Steele’s next novel will be like her first ones used to be. Well written, lacking constant repetition and rehashing of the story, three dimensional characters and a good plot and ending.
Sadly this one is lacking in all those areas. A lacklustre read.
Sadly this one is lacking in all those areas. A lacklustre read.
December 18, 2022
My kindle made me read this. If you read at a fourth grade level, this book is for you. If you need to be reminded of things paragraphs later, it's also for you. Sometimes you need a brain break and a hate read, I guess.
May 13, 2022
The Whittiers is Danielle Steel’s latest book. Mom and Dad Whittier have 6 grown kids and they love to go on a long vacation each year to France. While they are skiing in France, a horrible accident happens. This tells how the kids survived the next year. I enjoyed all the characters in this book. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
August 5, 2023
"The Whittiers" by Danielle Steel is a comforting and enjoyable read. Steel's books have always been like literary popcorn for me, providing a bubble bath for my brain. Out of all her books in 2022, this one stands out as the best.
As with many of Steel's novels, "The Whittiers" revolves around characters who are wealthy and live charming lives. However, what sets this book apart is its focus on family dynamics and the unexpected challenges they face. The Whittier siblings find themselves divided on how to handle major family issues, but their love and loyalty to one another shine through, making this a heartwarming story.
One aspect that I particularly enjoyed was the emergence of romance for these characters. It added a nice touch to the overall narrative and provided a sense of hope amidst the challenges they faced. Despite the often sad subject matter, the book remained a quick and light read, thanks to Steel's skillful storytelling.
One of the reasons why I keep coming back to Danielle Steel's books is because I know how things will turn out. Even though the Whittier family goes through rough times, there is always a sense of resolution and a happy ending. This predictability is part of the appeal, as it provides a sense of comfort and reassurance.
In conclusion, "The Whittiers" is a delightful addition to Danielle Steel's collection. It offers a comforting escape into a world of wealth, family dynamics, and unexpected challenges. The love and loyalty between the Whittier siblings, as well as the emergence of romance, make this a heartwarming story. Despite the sad moments, the book remains a quick and light read, providing the familiar satisfaction that comes with reading a Danielle Steel novel.
As with many of Steel's novels, "The Whittiers" revolves around characters who are wealthy and live charming lives. However, what sets this book apart is its focus on family dynamics and the unexpected challenges they face. The Whittier siblings find themselves divided on how to handle major family issues, but their love and loyalty to one another shine through, making this a heartwarming story.
One aspect that I particularly enjoyed was the emergence of romance for these characters. It added a nice touch to the overall narrative and provided a sense of hope amidst the challenges they faced. Despite the often sad subject matter, the book remained a quick and light read, thanks to Steel's skillful storytelling.
One of the reasons why I keep coming back to Danielle Steel's books is because I know how things will turn out. Even though the Whittier family goes through rough times, there is always a sense of resolution and a happy ending. This predictability is part of the appeal, as it provides a sense of comfort and reassurance.
In conclusion, "The Whittiers" is a delightful addition to Danielle Steel's collection. It offers a comforting escape into a world of wealth, family dynamics, and unexpected challenges. The love and loyalty between the Whittier siblings, as well as the emergence of romance, make this a heartwarming story. Despite the sad moments, the book remains a quick and light read, providing the familiar satisfaction that comes with reading a Danielle Steel novel.
November 4, 2022
As excellent and well known Danielle Steel is as an author, in my opinion her latest novel "The Whittiers" is not one of her best works. The main idea of the book was ambitious but not all that well developed. To summarize, the story follows a total of six siblings and their various storylines in the aftermath of a tragedy (respectfully, I won't divulge the details any further than this for those who decide to read the book).
Each character is unique and therefore has a unique storyline from one another, and yet... the characters are all one dimensional. Upon reading the first ten pages, I had not gotten hooked on the story or interested in the characters. At first, I thought maybe it was a slow burn kind of book so I hung in there with the expectations that it may get better. The drama entertained me a little, but I still didn't feel much for the characters. Perhaps the storyline would have improved if the book became a mini series of 6 novels, each one devoted to each sibling and their own storyline and developing them even further.
There were also some love stories going on, but even that didn't have much meat to it. The partners the characters had fallen in love with had also been flat, and the storyline of how they got together seemed too easy and set up.
Even the way the book had ended seemed a little too neatly tied in a bow.
The entire purpose of the book seemed to have a political agenda to it, but not enough to convince the reader or get the reader to fall in love with the characters. If I had to rate it out of five stars, I would give it one.
I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Each character is unique and therefore has a unique storyline from one another, and yet... the characters are all one dimensional. Upon reading the first ten pages, I had not gotten hooked on the story or interested in the characters. At first, I thought maybe it was a slow burn kind of book so I hung in there with the expectations that it may get better. The drama entertained me a little, but I still didn't feel much for the characters. Perhaps the storyline would have improved if the book became a mini series of 6 novels, each one devoted to each sibling and their own storyline and developing them even further.
There were also some love stories going on, but even that didn't have much meat to it. The partners the characters had fallen in love with had also been flat, and the storyline of how they got together seemed too easy and set up.
Even the way the book had ended seemed a little too neatly tied in a bow.
The entire purpose of the book seemed to have a political agenda to it, but not enough to convince the reader or get the reader to fall in love with the characters. If I had to rate it out of five stars, I would give it one.
I want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 19, 2022
Preston and Constance Whittier raised their six children in a large Manhattan mansion. The couple's passion remained after all their years of marriage, and they faithfully took their annual "wintermoon" ski trip holiday. This year, tragedy struck. The siblings are now forced to confront their new loss. Lyle, the eldest, is the father of two and loves his children, but his marriage is failing. Sister Gloria is devoted to her high-powered job with little time for a personal life. Twins Caroline and Charlie run a fashion label which is in need of financial help. Benjie has special needs and finds himself lost. And Annabelle, the youngest, dropped out of college and has been living an irresponsible life. To cope with their new situation, the family must come together like never before.
I've lost count of how many Danielle Steel novels I've read. There's something very comforting about her books. Are they predictable? Sure. But do they tug at your heart? Yes, most definitely. Her new book, The Whittiers, appealed to me as it is about family dynamics and dealing with the unexpected. While the siblings were divided on how to handle major family issues, their love and loyalty to one another made this a very heartwarming story. And the emergence of romance for these characters was a nice addition. This was a quick and light read even when the subject matter was often sad. And though the story has the family going through rough times, you know how things will turn out. That's why we read Danielle Steel books and keep coming back.
Many thanks to Delacorte Press | Penguin Random House for the opportunity to read The Whittiers in advance of its publication.
Review to be posted on MicheleReader.com.
I've lost count of how many Danielle Steel novels I've read. There's something very comforting about her books. Are they predictable? Sure. But do they tug at your heart? Yes, most definitely. Her new book, The Whittiers, appealed to me as it is about family dynamics and dealing with the unexpected. While the siblings were divided on how to handle major family issues, their love and loyalty to one another made this a very heartwarming story. And the emergence of romance for these characters was a nice addition. This was a quick and light read even when the subject matter was often sad. And though the story has the family going through rough times, you know how things will turn out. That's why we read Danielle Steel books and keep coming back.
Many thanks to Delacorte Press | Penguin Random House for the opportunity to read The Whittiers in advance of its publication.
Review to be posted on MicheleReader.com.
September 18, 2022
Danielle Steel's The Whittiers is a beautiful, heartfelt book. The Whittiers are a large family struck by a devastating tragedy. Each unique character is loveable and adds a wonderful dynamic to the family unit. What begins as slow-burn quickly becomes an engrossing page-turner as Steel gently unfolds the story.
As a fan of Danielle Steel for many years, I am always amazed by her deep and emotional writing style. The Whittiers is another example of Steel's ability to connect with the human spirit. Full of depth and heart-touching moments, the book reached down and touched my soul.
The Whittiers is available on November 22nd. (5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, for sharing this absolutely stunning novel with me. The Whittiers is clean and refreshing. I appreciate your kindness!
As a fan of Danielle Steel for many years, I am always amazed by her deep and emotional writing style. The Whittiers is another example of Steel's ability to connect with the human spirit. Full of depth and heart-touching moments, the book reached down and touched my soul.
The Whittiers is available on November 22nd. (5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, for sharing this absolutely stunning novel with me. The Whittiers is clean and refreshing. I appreciate your kindness!
January 8, 2023
This book is like most of Danielle Steel’s books. All of the people involved have plenty of money and live a very charming life. The Whittiers have been married for many years and have six grown children ranging in age from the 40s to the 20s. as the book opens, they are getting ready to travel on a skiing trip and tragedy that happens while they are skiing.The six remaining children have to cope with their deaths, decide what to do with the enormous house, which is worth close to $100 million. You meet each person and get involved in their lives. Towards the end, everyone meets a significant other and everyone’s lives change for the better. Highly recommend this book.
January 14, 2023
The writing reads how I wrote stories when I was eight years old, and that is not hyperbole. Every time a character is mentioned there is at least one line (usually many more) about how “she was very attractive and thin.” Nobody needs to worry about money because they are all in the top 0.00000001% of wealth. There is not a single line in this book that is not found in a Wattpad story written by a teenager.
The parents are supposed to be such great people but their 33-year-old son remained in the closet because the dad was so “conservative” he would have hated him for being gay? This paired with one of the siblings verbally berating her sister incessantly for being pregnant out of wedlock, and all of the siblings asking this same sister if she is going to get married like that is something you expect of a pregnant person in 2022—DS is 75 and it shows. Her age doesn’t excuse being this out of touch.
The treatment of their autistic brother is so ableist and ridiculous I can’t believe it made it through an editor. There is no such thing as being “high on the autism spectrum with signs of Asperger’s.” DS clearly couldn’t even consult Wikipedia before she wrote this. The writing surrounding this character infantilizes him constantly and is genuinely disgusting. He does not act like someone on the autism spectrum; he is written as and (treated by the other characters like) a 9-year-old in an adult’s body.
Also, I am pretty sure it is not okay to start dating the CPS officer who investigates your home. Nor is it okay for a doctor to date the family member of one of their patients.
The parents are supposed to be such great people but their 33-year-old son remained in the closet because the dad was so “conservative” he would have hated him for being gay? This paired with one of the siblings verbally berating her sister incessantly for being pregnant out of wedlock, and all of the siblings asking this same sister if she is going to get married like that is something you expect of a pregnant person in 2022—DS is 75 and it shows. Her age doesn’t excuse being this out of touch.
The treatment of their autistic brother is so ableist and ridiculous I can’t believe it made it through an editor. There is no such thing as being “high on the autism spectrum with signs of Asperger’s.” DS clearly couldn’t even consult Wikipedia before she wrote this. The writing surrounding this character infantilizes him constantly and is genuinely disgusting. He does not act like someone on the autism spectrum; he is written as and (treated by the other characters like) a 9-year-old in an adult’s body.
Also, I am pretty sure it is not okay to start dating the CPS officer who investigates your home. Nor is it okay for a doctor to date the family member of one of their patients.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2022
Two stars were actually extremely generous, how on Earth this book has better ratings I have no idea.
There may be some spoilers but it's not like anything substantial happens in this book so whatever:
Everything is explained at least 4 times. In case you didn't know Gloria is 39. And yes, the sister Gloria who is 39, is also 39. Oh and then entered Gloria, the sister, aged 39. That's pretty much the first half of the book. There were 6 siblings after all, lots of ground to cover.
I really don't want to be mean here just explain what you'll face reading this. For some reason I stopped wanting to throw this book off the balcony after 200 pages, so I guess it wasn't a complete disaster? Pretty boring though. I like cozy, Hallmark books but that was just soooooooo predictable. I mean come on are we supposed to believed all these people haven't had a relationship in 20 years and OH SUDDENLY for no particular reason all of them minus one find their amazing SO. Believable for one person in a Hallmark film, but it was not here.
I do believe this author has potential, because something about the writing seemed like it could be interesting, I just wish there was an interesting plot as well. I see the author has written a ton of books maybe that's the problem I don't know.
I am sorry, I wish I had enjoyed it more but I relaly didn't
There may be some spoilers but it's not like anything substantial happens in this book so whatever:
Everything is explained at least 4 times. In case you didn't know Gloria is 39. And yes, the sister Gloria who is 39, is also 39. Oh and then entered Gloria, the sister, aged 39. That's pretty much the first half of the book. There were 6 siblings after all, lots of ground to cover.
I really don't want to be mean here just explain what you'll face reading this. For some reason I stopped wanting to throw this book off the balcony after 200 pages, so I guess it wasn't a complete disaster? Pretty boring though. I like cozy, Hallmark books but that was just soooooooo predictable. I mean come on are we supposed to believed all these people haven't had a relationship in 20 years and OH SUDDENLY for no particular reason all of them minus one find their amazing SO. Believable for one person in a Hallmark film, but it was not here.
I do believe this author has potential, because something about the writing seemed like it could be interesting, I just wish there was an interesting plot as well. I see the author has written a ton of books maybe that's the problem I don't know.
I am sorry, I wish I had enjoyed it more but I relaly didn't
May 19, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to review this book.
I'll save you some time. Have you read Steel's novel Family Album? Good. Then don't bother with this one because it's a flat, pale imitation of that book. This is just a bad retelling of that story with a different family name and different jobs. Same issues. Same outdated ideas and stereotypes. At least Family Album had some heart and nuance. This is just boring and repetitive.
I'll save you some time. Have you read Steel's novel Family Album? Good. Then don't bother with this one because it's a flat, pale imitation of that book. This is just a bad retelling of that story with a different family name and different jobs. Same issues. Same outdated ideas and stereotypes. At least Family Album had some heart and nuance. This is just boring and repetitive.
November 26, 2022
I liked this one. Easy, warm read too.
May 10, 2022
Classic Danielle and always a winner.
January 3, 2023
At least it's taco night! 🌮
January 24, 2024
A thoroughly enjoyable, feel good story about a family who because of their parents death move into a massive house in New York City. Then the story moves between relationships and connections. As most Danielle steel books are, this was exceptionally well written.
I think it’s real strength is in the characters how she was able to interlock different characters And emotions and bring about a lovely story.
So you ask Wyomi four stars. Well, it was a bit protectable.
I think it’s real strength is in the characters how she was able to interlock different characters And emotions and bring about a lovely story.
So you ask Wyomi four stars. Well, it was a bit protectable.
January 8, 2023
Great feel good book!
December 19, 2022
Listened to this by Audiobook. I am not a DS diehard fan but the premises of this book interested me enough to give it a listen and it was highly rated on Goodreads.
A large family drama, New York, an autistic sibling and dogs. What else do you need to create a great character read? It was not a deep read and was wildly predictable but I still enjoyed this. I feel sometimes you just need a lighter read and this fit the bill perfectly.
3.5 stars.
A large family drama, New York, an autistic sibling and dogs. What else do you need to create a great character read? It was not a deep read and was wildly predictable but I still enjoyed this. I feel sometimes you just need a lighter read and this fit the bill perfectly.
3.5 stars.
December 9, 2025
Tai pirmoji pažintis su autorės kūryba ir tikrai paskutinė. Iš tikrųjų net nežinau nuo ko pradėti, nes šis romanas buvo mano kantrybės ir tvirtybės išbandymas. Tikrų tikriausia santa barbara tik, ko gero, blogesnis variantas, nes prastai išpildyta😅🙈 Autorė šioje knygoje bandė aprėpti labai daug skirtingų ir jautrių temų: skaudžios skyrybos su materialiste žmona, skyrybų poveikis vaikams, lgbtq tema, nėštumas su tam tikrais dalykais (nenoriu visai išduot siužeto), aspergerio sindromas, artimųjų netektis. Visos temos labai jautrios ir reikalaujančios atidos ir plėtojimo, bet ar jo buvo? Kai kurios temos apkalbėtos daugiau, bet vis viena atrodė per mažai🙈 Nepalietė nė viena tema giliau, jautriau nors tiek potencialo buvo! Knygos apimtis nėra nė 300 psl - pralėkta su vėjeliu. Veikėjai atrodė gan įdomūs, bet vėlgi su jais trūko įdirbio ir plėtojimo🙈 Pabaiga atrodė iš vis absurdiška ir kėlė juoką - keliais sakiniais staiga užbaigta drama, kuri vyko didžiąją dalį knygos😅 apie kai kuriuos dalykus net neužsiminta.
Esu labai nusivylusi dar ir tuo, kad čia nieko labai kalėdiško nėra - tik pabaigoje keli sakiniai, kad švęstos kalėdos😅 Tikrai nerekomenduoju, nes visa knyga - tikras chaosas ir nė viena tema neišpildyta iki galo.
Esu labai nusivylusi dar ir tuo, kad čia nieko labai kalėdiško nėra - tik pabaigoje keli sakiniai, kad švęstos kalėdos😅 Tikrai nerekomenduoju, nes visa knyga - tikras chaosas ir nė viena tema neišpildyta iki galo.
November 22, 2022
Happy Publication Day!
I don't know what to say about this book except that it made me feel good and that all is NOT wrong with the world. It's not accurate to real life, but it is great escapism.
Yes, in some ways, this book was written as sort of a fairytale. To the best of my knowledge, real people don't all act this way; of course, if you were to inherit a 100 million-dollar house and the financial means to back it up, had five siblings that are always there for you. The worst you ever had to put upon with was a brother who is Autistic/on the spectrum, a young sister (21 years old) who is living her life to the fullest and becomes pregnant out of wedlock and had to go through a divorce from a bitch of a wife I might have had more empathy for these characters.
However, as I already said, this WAS great escapism/ It also was a sweet book and a quick read.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Delacorte Press - Penguin Random House, the author, and NetGalley.
I don't know what to say about this book except that it made me feel good and that all is NOT wrong with the world. It's not accurate to real life, but it is great escapism.
Yes, in some ways, this book was written as sort of a fairytale. To the best of my knowledge, real people don't all act this way; of course, if you were to inherit a 100 million-dollar house and the financial means to back it up, had five siblings that are always there for you. The worst you ever had to put upon with was a brother who is Autistic/on the spectrum, a young sister (21 years old) who is living her life to the fullest and becomes pregnant out of wedlock and had to go through a divorce from a bitch of a wife I might have had more empathy for these characters.
However, as I already said, this WAS great escapism/ It also was a sweet book and a quick read.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Delacorte Press - Penguin Random House, the author, and NetGalley.
August 14, 2022
Of the three ARCs I have that are written by Danielle Steel coming out this year (Aug, Oct & Nov 2022) this is my favorite. A fairly close knit family of six siblings are brought together by tragedy. The Whittier’s parents die together in an accident. Their children are mostly grown ages 21 and up. All are at different stages of life with the oldest being the only one married with two children. There is small inheritances for everyone but the biggest asset is the family home. It is a 25,000 square foot house in NYC worth $50-100 million dollars. But five of the six, each for their own reasons, end up living in the house together. There is a general sense of family love and connection. Even though they aren’t all in agreement they are supportive of each other as each as their own story.
I enjoy romances so I like that many of the siblings find love during the course of the story. There is representation as one of the siblings comes out to the family. Something they couldn’t do while the father was alive. One brother is on the high end of the autistic spectrum and needs extra attention and care. It helps that everyone in the family is likable. Even the oldest sister who has some harsh things to say to the the youngest. The oldest son is going through a divorce so his wife is the only villain in the story.
I cared for the family and enjoyed following them in the year time period of the novel. And I would dearly love to have the chance to stay in their NYC home. The story is sweet, heartwarming, funny and filled with caring. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballentine for eARC in exchange for an honest review. (4.5 stars)
I enjoy romances so I like that many of the siblings find love during the course of the story. There is representation as one of the siblings comes out to the family. Something they couldn’t do while the father was alive. One brother is on the high end of the autistic spectrum and needs extra attention and care. It helps that everyone in the family is likable. Even the oldest sister who has some harsh things to say to the the youngest. The oldest son is going through a divorce so his wife is the only villain in the story.
I cared for the family and enjoyed following them in the year time period of the novel. And I would dearly love to have the chance to stay in their NYC home. The story is sweet, heartwarming, funny and filled with caring. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballentine for eARC in exchange for an honest review. (4.5 stars)
August 19, 2022
A feel-good story in the aftermath of the death of the beloved parents of six siblings,
When Preston and Constance Whittier die on their annual vacation, all of their children return to their Manhattan mansion to console one another and make decisions. Each sibling is very different from the other and all have the typical life issues and obstacles to address. The parents had asked that the mansion be sold for profit after their death, but what if the siblings want to keep and maintain their childhood home?
Danielle Steel delivers a homey and happy story - perfect for Thanksgiving season. If you love Danielle Steel, a complicated family, or just a feel - good story, The Whittiers is for you! #TheWhittiers.
#RandomHouse #Ballantine
When Preston and Constance Whittier die on their annual vacation, all of their children return to their Manhattan mansion to console one another and make decisions. Each sibling is very different from the other and all have the typical life issues and obstacles to address. The parents had asked that the mansion be sold for profit after their death, but what if the siblings want to keep and maintain their childhood home?
Danielle Steel delivers a homey and happy story - perfect for Thanksgiving season. If you love Danielle Steel, a complicated family, or just a feel - good story, The Whittiers is for you! #TheWhittiers.
#RandomHouse #Ballantine
January 9, 2024
3 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a big fan of Danielle Steel - for many years. While her books don’t really offer up anything new I usually enjoy them.
This one centered around The Whittier’s six children who must figure out their lives after their parents are killed in a ski accident. Tension filled moments, family drama and the usual unlikeable character or two that Steel usually serves up in her books are what I normally look forward to when reading anything by her, but this bland plot was just an okay read for me.
I still love her books and will continue to read them.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Ballantine and Danielle Steel for my advanced copy to read and review.
I’m a big fan of Danielle Steel - for many years. While her books don’t really offer up anything new I usually enjoy them.
This one centered around The Whittier’s six children who must figure out their lives after their parents are killed in a ski accident. Tension filled moments, family drama and the usual unlikeable character or two that Steel usually serves up in her books are what I normally look forward to when reading anything by her, but this bland plot was just an okay read for me.
I still love her books and will continue to read them.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Ballantine and Danielle Steel for my advanced copy to read and review.
July 15, 2024
lol. This book is full of shallow 2 dimensional characters.
Rich parents die in an avalanche while on a ski trip in France.
5 out of the 6 siblings end up living together in the 14 bedroom, 25,000 sq ft house in SOHO that was left to them by their parents.
Lyle (early 40s) is married to a gold digger, Amanda. They have children (or just a child, idk). They end up deciding to get divorced shortly after the funeral. Amanda ends up calling child services on her ex because he was living in a house with a bunch of his siblings. Lyle ends up asking the child services person on a date. Wtf? And they end up together, wow.
Gloria (39) single no kids. Workaholic. Ends up calling her 21 year old pregnant sister a slut for getting pregnant. (The only one not living in the 25k sq ft house). Meets a love interest.
Charlie & Caroline (twins, 30 something) own a clothing company together. Charlie is gay, comes out to his siblings after their parents died. Meets a love interest. Caroline plays a mothering role to Annabelle and helps her through her pregnancy and adoption decision. Also meets a love interest.
Benji (28) is high on the autism spectrum, works at an animal shelter. Adopted a Great Dane (Duke) and a Chihuahua (Dottie). Wants to also adopt his sister’s baby. Meets a love interest who also has autism.
Annabelle (21) accidentally pregnant by some random dude. Wants to put the baby up for adoption. Adoptive couples keep dropping out of the adoption because Annabelle used drugs and alcohol when she didn’t realize she was pregnant. Finally at the 11th hour, a couple from Hollywood pulled through. LOL she decides to keep the baby as soon as she sees him. She names the baby Preston after their dead dad. Does not meet a love interest, goes back to college.
The siblings turn down a $70 million offer on the house. Lol.
LOL Annabelle’s OBGYN asked Caroline on a date right after the birth of Preston. LOL they said I love yous on the first date!
This book was ridiculous. Now it makes sense how she cranks out so many books.
Rich parents die in an avalanche while on a ski trip in France.
5 out of the 6 siblings end up living together in the 14 bedroom, 25,000 sq ft house in SOHO that was left to them by their parents.
Lyle (early 40s) is married to a gold digger, Amanda. They have children (or just a child, idk). They end up deciding to get divorced shortly after the funeral. Amanda ends up calling child services on her ex because he was living in a house with a bunch of his siblings. Lyle ends up asking the child services person on a date. Wtf? And they end up together, wow.
Gloria (39) single no kids. Workaholic. Ends up calling her 21 year old pregnant sister a slut for getting pregnant. (The only one not living in the 25k sq ft house). Meets a love interest.
Charlie & Caroline (twins, 30 something) own a clothing company together. Charlie is gay, comes out to his siblings after their parents died. Meets a love interest. Caroline plays a mothering role to Annabelle and helps her through her pregnancy and adoption decision. Also meets a love interest.
Benji (28) is high on the autism spectrum, works at an animal shelter. Adopted a Great Dane (Duke) and a Chihuahua (Dottie). Wants to also adopt his sister’s baby. Meets a love interest who also has autism.
Annabelle (21) accidentally pregnant by some random dude. Wants to put the baby up for adoption. Adoptive couples keep dropping out of the adoption because Annabelle used drugs and alcohol when she didn’t realize she was pregnant. Finally at the 11th hour, a couple from Hollywood pulled through. LOL she decides to keep the baby as soon as she sees him. She names the baby Preston after their dead dad. Does not meet a love interest, goes back to college.
The siblings turn down a $70 million offer on the house. Lol.
LOL Annabelle’s OBGYN asked Caroline on a date right after the birth of Preston. LOL they said I love yous on the first date!
This book was ridiculous. Now it makes sense how she cranks out so many books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2023
This book was one of my favorites by this author!
November 6, 2022
The Whittiers by Danielle Steel is a sweeping family drama that follows a tight-knit family after the death of their parents.
I enjoyed this story and liked the characters very much. All five children are strong characters with their own issues and problems. I loved the way all the children came together and eventually helped each other out.
However, I found the story a bit predictable. I know that romances can be predictable, but for some reason, I found that this book was very predictable, almost as if I’d read it before. But, I still enjoyed the book, as the characters were very compelling.
I recommend The Whittiers to anyone who enjoys fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed this story and liked the characters very much. All five children are strong characters with their own issues and problems. I loved the way all the children came together and eventually helped each other out.
However, I found the story a bit predictable. I know that romances can be predictable, but for some reason, I found that this book was very predictable, almost as if I’d read it before. But, I still enjoyed the book, as the characters were very compelling.
I recommend The Whittiers to anyone who enjoys fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 4, 2022
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, Random House Publishing Group- Ballantine and by #NetGalley. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Yes, yes, yes finally a positive novel by the legendary Danielle Steel. It’s not a story of a woman losing everything, a victim of a terribly abusive man, overcoming odds, yet their wealthy and beautiful throughout.
It’s a story of a family coming together, navigating their own lives, stories and issues. One brothers autism isn’t a focus or framed a negative— another star! It’s well done, a quick read. Lovely.
Yes, yes, yes finally a positive novel by the legendary Danielle Steel. It’s not a story of a woman losing everything, a victim of a terribly abusive man, overcoming odds, yet their wealthy and beautiful throughout.
It’s a story of a family coming together, navigating their own lives, stories and issues. One brothers autism isn’t a focus or framed a negative— another star! It’s well done, a quick read. Lovely.
May 5, 2023
Simply awful. It’s probably been 20 years since I read a DS novel, and this will be the last.
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