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The Letter
A woman nursing a secret heartbreak. An unexpected letter. Do words have the power to heal?
Isabel opened her bag and pulled the letter out, glancing at the address one last time before she slid it through the slot, hearing it land with a plunk. It was gone. She’d done it, and now she’d have to wait to see what happened next.
Veronica and Gabe met when they were children at ballet class and by the time they’d reached their teens they knew they’d be dancing together forever. Only Gabe’s mother had other ideas…
Twenty something years later, Veronica no longer dances and life hasn’t turned out how she thought it would. She’s a divorced woman in her forties with a needy ex-husband, monosyllabic teenage sons, a sister who fancies herself as a long in the tooth ‘it girl’ and a mother who’s recently moved into a care home. She’s tying herself in knots trying to be everything to everyone.
Veronica also has a secret. Isabel was a lost soul until she moved to the Isle of Wight and found a place to call home, but there’s a part of her that’s missing. She knows she must reach out if she’s to find the missing piece she needs to feel whole.
When Veronica receives a letter, she never thought she’d get, her past collides with her present. The time’s come for her to share her secret with her family, but she’s not the only one keeping a secret…
(This book was previously titled The Dancer) It can be read as a standalone novel or as part of the Isabel's story, series
Isabel opened her bag and pulled the letter out, glancing at the address one last time before she slid it through the slot, hearing it land with a plunk. It was gone. She’d done it, and now she’d have to wait to see what happened next.
Veronica and Gabe met when they were children at ballet class and by the time they’d reached their teens they knew they’d be dancing together forever. Only Gabe’s mother had other ideas…
Twenty something years later, Veronica no longer dances and life hasn’t turned out how she thought it would. She’s a divorced woman in her forties with a needy ex-husband, monosyllabic teenage sons, a sister who fancies herself as a long in the tooth ‘it girl’ and a mother who’s recently moved into a care home. She’s tying herself in knots trying to be everything to everyone.
Veronica also has a secret. Isabel was a lost soul until she moved to the Isle of Wight and found a place to call home, but there’s a part of her that’s missing. She knows she must reach out if she’s to find the missing piece she needs to feel whole.
When Veronica receives a letter, she never thought she’d get, her past collides with her present. The time’s come for her to share her secret with her family, but she’s not the only one keeping a secret…
(This book was previously titled The Dancer) It can be read as a standalone novel or as part of the Isabel's story, series
- GenresHistorical Fiction
ebook
First published May 30, 2020
362 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Vernal
68 books398 followersMichelle Vernal is a bestselling author of warm, witty, and uplifting Irish fiction. Born in England to parents from Liverpool – often called “Little Ireland” – she grew up on her mum’s tales of Iocal families, music, and humour. Later, she lived, worked, got engaged, and travelled extensively in Ireland, experiences that inspire her much-loved novels, including the hilarious Guesthouse on the Green series. Her stories, filled with heart, humour, and unforgettable characters, have earned her a loyal readership worldwide.
For updates on Michelle's latest book releases you can follow her here: https://www.amazon.com/author/michell...
For updates on Michelle's latest book releases you can follow her here: https://www.amazon.com/author/michell...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
June 28, 2020
I really enjoyed The Dancer and it’s companion book, The Promise. Both books are stand-alone-stories and each are excellent, entertaining books on their own.
When a story is good and you care about the characters, you hate for the book to end. When I finished The Promise, I wasn’t ready to leave the characters behind so I purchased The Dancer and throughly enjoyed the continuing story.
I was not familiar with author Michelle Vernal before reading these books but I definitely will read all of her books. I really like her writing style. She creates characters you come to care about and doesn’t get bogged down with trivial information. Her stories move along smoothly and her plot lines are believable.
I especially liked how she told the story of The Dancer. The main Character’s mother had Alzheimer’s and the dancer’s back story was told through reminiscing with her mother about her early dance years. She moved from past to present seamlessly.
I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of Michelle Vernal’s books. I have a strong feeling that I will not be disappointed.
When a story is good and you care about the characters, you hate for the book to end. When I finished The Promise, I wasn’t ready to leave the characters behind so I purchased The Dancer and throughly enjoyed the continuing story.
I was not familiar with author Michelle Vernal before reading these books but I definitely will read all of her books. I really like her writing style. She creates characters you come to care about and doesn’t get bogged down with trivial information. Her stories move along smoothly and her plot lines are believable.
I especially liked how she told the story of The Dancer. The main Character’s mother had Alzheimer’s and the dancer’s back story was told through reminiscing with her mother about her early dance years. She moved from past to present seamlessly.
I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of Michelle Vernal’s books. I have a strong feeling that I will not be disappointed.
June 26, 2020
I was a little disappointed in this book after reading the previous book.
I found this book a little confusing as it went from one person's story to another. Perhaps I have problems with dementia! I guess their are many families like this with very complicated relationships it's just mine that is more conventional.
Like Isobel I was adopted and spent many years looking for my birth mother without success until I had my DNA tested and discovered my birth father was an American GI but unfortunately had died. A couple of weeks later I found my birth certificate which has been his filed but unfortunately she had also died a couple of years earlier. I did however connect with some cousins. My adopted parents are still my true parents and I am still the same person,but I have tried up a few loose ends.
I found this book a little confusing as it went from one person's story to another. Perhaps I have problems with dementia! I guess their are many families like this with very complicated relationships it's just mine that is more conventional.
Like Isobel I was adopted and spent many years looking for my birth mother without success until I had my DNA tested and discovered my birth father was an American GI but unfortunately had died. A couple of weeks later I found my birth certificate which has been his filed but unfortunately she had also died a couple of years earlier. I did however connect with some cousins. My adopted parents are still my true parents and I am still the same person,but I have tried up a few loose ends.
March 29, 2021
A stunning, beautiful story.
I was invested by the end of the first chapter. By the end tears of happiness were streaming down my cheeks. Includes a heartbreakingly realistic depiction of alzheimers disease and the effect it has on the whole family. Highly recommended.
I was invested by the end of the first chapter. By the end tears of happiness were streaming down my cheeks. Includes a heartbreakingly realistic depiction of alzheimers disease and the effect it has on the whole family. Highly recommended.
July 2, 2020
The Dancer: Isobel’s Story Book 2 is by Michelle Vernal. Family secrets can change everything or nothing.
Veronica Stanley wanted nothing more than to be a great dancer. She had the talent to be one of the greatest. She met Gabe, a young boy, when they went to dance class together. She was poor and he was rich; but their love for ballet brought them together. They began performing together and were magnificent. They auditioned for a place in a major ballet company but when the second audition came up, Veronica had to drop out, she was pregnant. Gabe’s mother arranged for her to give birth in a secluded place and give the baby up for adoption. No one else knew about the pregnancy. The only thing Veronica asked what that the adoptive parents keep the name she gave her,- Isobel. After having to give up her baby, there really was no way she could care for her, Veronica lost all interest in dancing. She eventually married, had twin boys, and divorced. Now she was wondering what was next.
Next, was taking care of her Mother, Margo. Margo had developed Alzheimer’s and was in a home. Veronica would visit regularly. Then, when her sister, Abi, was visiting, she found a box of her ballet things. She began taking them one at a time to the home, handing it to her Mother, and talking about the item and what she was feeling at the time. She used these as a segue to telling her Mother about her life and the daughter she gave up and hoped one day would try to find her. After a while, she got to Paris and told her Mother about her daughter and giving her up. Then Margo told her a family secret that caused her life to explode. What is she to do now with that information?
Meanwhile, Isobel had decided to hunt for her birth mother. She talked it over with her adoptive parents and assured them she wasn’t looking to replace them; but to get answers. She finally located Veronica and wrote her a letter; but kept the letter in her purse for a very long time before mailing it. What if she didn’t answer?
Veronica Stanley wanted nothing more than to be a great dancer. She had the talent to be one of the greatest. She met Gabe, a young boy, when they went to dance class together. She was poor and he was rich; but their love for ballet brought them together. They began performing together and were magnificent. They auditioned for a place in a major ballet company but when the second audition came up, Veronica had to drop out, she was pregnant. Gabe’s mother arranged for her to give birth in a secluded place and give the baby up for adoption. No one else knew about the pregnancy. The only thing Veronica asked what that the adoptive parents keep the name she gave her,- Isobel. After having to give up her baby, there really was no way she could care for her, Veronica lost all interest in dancing. She eventually married, had twin boys, and divorced. Now she was wondering what was next.
Next, was taking care of her Mother, Margo. Margo had developed Alzheimer’s and was in a home. Veronica would visit regularly. Then, when her sister, Abi, was visiting, she found a box of her ballet things. She began taking them one at a time to the home, handing it to her Mother, and talking about the item and what she was feeling at the time. She used these as a segue to telling her Mother about her life and the daughter she gave up and hoped one day would try to find her. After a while, she got to Paris and told her Mother about her daughter and giving her up. Then Margo told her a family secret that caused her life to explode. What is she to do now with that information?
Meanwhile, Isobel had decided to hunt for her birth mother. She talked it over with her adoptive parents and assured them she wasn’t looking to replace them; but to get answers. She finally located Veronica and wrote her a letter; but kept the letter in her purse for a very long time before mailing it. What if she didn’t answer?
June 3, 2020
Another awesome read from author Michelle Vernal. The first book in what I hope will be another series, The Promise, holds a special place in my heart for two reasons. I designed the cover and it was the first book I read from this talented author. While I have read so much of Michelle's work, these two have to be my favorite. The characters are rich and vivid. I love how she can take a story with heart and yes, some sadness, and still weave in some amazingly comical situations. These books will make you laugh and cry and want to read them again. Oh, and HALLMARK if you are listening, The Promise at least, NEEDS to be a movie. The story in this book has so much that is relatable to many individuals today. You won't be disappointed!
July 21, 2020
This book continues Isabels story, looking at the events that led to her adoption narrated by her birth mum. It also introduces her birth father. Alongside this, Isabel is enjoying settling into island life and we follow her journey as to whether she will contact her birth mum and how that decision affects her and her family.
A very well deserved 5🌟
A very well deserved 5🌟
December 26, 2021
Blurred story
Less gripped by this than by The Promise. The two different stories were difficult to combine and seemed not to flow smoothly.
I felt for Veronica with the loss,of her child, but was more moved I thought no by the impact her loss had on her mother and sister.
Isabel's journey into step-mothethood was sweet.
Just not as good as the first book.
Less gripped by this than by The Promise. The two different stories were difficult to combine and seemed not to flow smoothly.
I felt for Veronica with the loss,of her child, but was more moved I thought no by the impact her loss had on her mother and sister.
Isabel's journey into step-mothethood was sweet.
Just not as good as the first book.
July 3, 2022
I loved this book, which is the second in the series after The Promise. Veronica trained as a ballet dancer with her best friend, Gabe. Both were good enough to audition and win places in the Paris Ballet. However, she finds herself pregnant, and Gabe's mother manipulates her into having the baby adopted out.
June 13, 2020
My 11th book by MV and by far my favourite. A sweet and heart wrenching story. The themes are very real and I have friends and love ones who have or are going through similar situations. Thank you for such a emotional and honest reading experience.
July 14, 2020
The dancer
I have laughed and smilled the whole way through this book and can't believe that I have finished reading it already. I can't wait to get my next Michelle Vernal book. I hope you are keeping well and staying safe
I have laughed and smilled the whole way through this book and can't believe that I have finished reading it already. I can't wait to get my next Michelle Vernal book. I hope you are keeping well and staying safe
July 29, 2020
Heartwarming story
Such wonderful likeable characters. Humour and sadness always make for a good read and this one certainly has that in spades. Must look for more by this writer. New to me
Such wonderful likeable characters. Humour and sadness always make for a good read and this one certainly has that in spades. Must look for more by this writer. New to me
August 24, 2020
The Dancer
A gripping story of love, loss and secrets with adoption and dementia thrown in. Passion and promise of success are forfeited by an unexpected event. Our heroine spends years looking and hoping to find the child she gave up for adoption. Delightfully written.
A gripping story of love, loss and secrets with adoption and dementia thrown in. Passion and promise of success are forfeited by an unexpected event. Our heroine spends years looking and hoping to find the child she gave up for adoption. Delightfully written.
September 8, 2020
Joy,heartache and happiness
The people in this story were very likeable. The joy and heartache of Ronnie's life was moving.the book flowed along ,pleasant.I liked these characters..
The people in this story were very likeable. The joy and heartache of Ronnie's life was moving.the book flowed along ,pleasant.I liked these characters..
October 5, 2020
Emotional
This book and the first 'The Promise' had me in tears and laughing out loud. I really felt a connection with the characters. I look forward to reading more from this author.
This book and the first 'The Promise' had me in tears and laughing out loud. I really felt a connection with the characters. I look forward to reading more from this author.
January 7, 2021
So enjoyable!
Michelle ‘s books are such a delight! I’ve enjoyed each one I’ve read. Each series has it’s fill of delightful characters. They make you laugh and cry both sad and happy tears. I can’t wait to read more 😉
Michelle ‘s books are such a delight! I’ve enjoyed each one I’ve read. Each series has it’s fill of delightful characters. They make you laugh and cry both sad and happy tears. I can’t wait to read more 😉
March 14, 2021
Poignant Story of family relationships
Michelle Vernal is a gifted storyteller. This lovely story of family members who are brought together later in life due to circumstances beyond their control prove that loves endures and sustains us.
Michelle Vernal is a gifted storyteller. This lovely story of family members who are brought together later in life due to circumstances beyond their control prove that loves endures and sustains us.
March 20, 2021
On point.
Michelle has yet to disappoint me in any of her offerings. This remains true with The Dancer. Characters are well developed and believable.I felt I was in the pages of the Dancer. On point. ?
Michelle has yet to disappoint me in any of her offerings. This remains true with The Dancer. Characters are well developed and believable.I felt I was in the pages of the Dancer. On point. ?
December 12, 2021
Good clean story
A lovely romance. Clean. I love the feel good vibes.
I enjoyed hearing about the lack of choices the high school and rich versus post kids had. A lot of things happened due to lack of honesty both by parents, and the kids learning the same behavior. Enjoy!
A lovely romance. Clean. I love the feel good vibes.
I enjoyed hearing about the lack of choices the high school and rich versus post kids had. A lot of things happened due to lack of honesty both by parents, and the kids learning the same behavior. Enjoy!
March 23, 2022
Great to Catch Up With Isabel Again
Equal parts heartwarming and heart wrenching, I loved Isabel’s story. It was so good to see the different perspectives of each character in the story and how they were each affected by one decision. A great read.
Equal parts heartwarming and heart wrenching, I loved Isabel’s story. It was so good to see the different perspectives of each character in the story and how they were each affected by one decision. A great read.
May 31, 2020
Great read
Good story, different and told by two strong characters.
Love this author, haven’t been disappointed by her.
Look forward to the next one.
Good story, different and told by two strong characters.
Love this author, haven’t been disappointed by her.
Look forward to the next one.
June 7, 2020
Another Wonderful Read
Michelle Vernal never disappoints her loyal fans. Just easy to read and good stories. I look forward to reading more.
Michelle Vernal never disappoints her loyal fans. Just easy to read and good stories. I look forward to reading more.
June 13, 2020
The Dancer
This book is glorious! It was made all the better because I read The Promise first. So many emotions. Just beautiful!
This book is glorious! It was made all the better because I read The Promise first. So many emotions. Just beautiful!
June 17, 2020
I really enjoyed your book so much. I hope there is another book to follow. I look forward to see what’s new. Thank you for being a author to all you do for us readers.
August 10, 2020
Loved this book
Wonderful
Really enjoyed
Great book to read
Couldnt put it down!!!loved this book
Cant wait to read mor more more
Wonderful
Really enjoyed
Great book to read
Couldnt put it down!!!loved this book
Cant wait to read mor more more
August 16, 2020
Highly recommend
A sweet, wonderful story of family, life and love! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have added this author, Michelle Vernal, to my favorites list.
A sweet, wonderful story of family, life and love! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have added this author, Michelle Vernal, to my favorites list.
August 22, 2020
An enthralling read
I really enjoyed this sequel. Excellent writing. I was gripped till the end. Highly recommend for those who enjoy romance
I really enjoyed this sequel. Excellent writing. I was gripped till the end. Highly recommend for those who enjoy romance
October 2, 2020
Wonderful summer read
Interesting family dynamics play out over the years. Heartbreak,sadness,joy , talent all enter into the book. Enjoy, you’ll celebrate and cry.
Interesting family dynamics play out over the years. Heartbreak,sadness,joy , talent all enter into the book. Enjoy, you’ll celebrate and cry.
January 16, 2021
A beautiful story loved it, funny and sad in places well worth 5 stars
January 29, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. Loved the story and loved the characters. I was a blubbering mess at the end.
December 3, 2021
Really enjoyable but a big mistake made - Andre Rieu is not Austrian he is Dutch
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews