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Letters from Strangers
From the creator of the 2017 film All I Wish comes the heartbreaking story of two strangers searching for the truth about their families—and discovering a secret that will change their lives forever.
Jane’s father is far from perfect. But his sudden death brings crushing grief. As Jane grapples with her pain, life delivers another blow ... a stack of letters pointing to a secret life. A life her father shared with another woman…who may have had his child.
Across the country, sixteen-year-old Adam is self-destructing. His adoptive parents never intended to show him the unsigned letters from his birth mother, but he is desperate for answers, even if they hurt.
Jane and Adam are on a collision course, but not for the reasons we might suspect. Because the letters do not tell the whole story. What is true is that Adam and Jane are both looking for a woman who does not want to be found.
A family saga spanning two decades, this emotional story explores how good things can grow from the ashes of old scars.
Jane’s father is far from perfect. But his sudden death brings crushing grief. As Jane grapples with her pain, life delivers another blow ... a stack of letters pointing to a secret life. A life her father shared with another woman…who may have had his child.
Across the country, sixteen-year-old Adam is self-destructing. His adoptive parents never intended to show him the unsigned letters from his birth mother, but he is desperate for answers, even if they hurt.
Jane and Adam are on a collision course, but not for the reasons we might suspect. Because the letters do not tell the whole story. What is true is that Adam and Jane are both looking for a woman who does not want to be found.
A family saga spanning two decades, this emotional story explores how good things can grow from the ashes of old scars.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2025
1039 people are currently reading
14406 people want to read
About the author
Susan Walter
6 books644 followersSusan Walter is a recovering screenwriter and film director who started writing books to kill people because it was frowned upon in real life. Her first two novels, “Good as Dead” and “Over Her Dead Body” are set in the movie business, but then she discovered there are places that are even more dangerous. She is now murdering people on airplanes, on ski hills, and in safehouses while on the run from organized crime.
A sometimes director, her Netflix movie ALL I WISH, which she also wrote, stars Sharon Stone and Tony Goldwyn and won a screenwriting award that you have never heard of, but that she is proud of nonetheless. Her latest novel, "Letters from Strangers," is based on the real-life mystery that riddled her own childhood. You can learn more about Susan at www.susanwalterwriter.com, and thanks for stopping by!
A sometimes director, her Netflix movie ALL I WISH, which she also wrote, stars Sharon Stone and Tony Goldwyn and won a screenwriting award that you have never heard of, but that she is proud of nonetheless. Her latest novel, "Letters from Strangers," is based on the real-life mystery that riddled her own childhood. You can learn more about Susan at www.susanwalterwriter.com, and thanks for stopping by!
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May 21, 2025
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The Book Review Crew Blog
Oh wow, this is my first Susan Walter book, but it certainly won't be my last, this was simply incredible. Jane just lost her dad when she finds out that he had led a double life. Then there is sixteen-year-old adopted Adam, who's going through some typical teenage angst when he finds letters written to him from his biological mom. Eventually, we learn how Jane and Adam are connected through decades of family trauma and drama. Still, it's not what you think. These two characters took me along on their emotional journeys and gave me all the feels. There are heavy topical themes within this story, such as infertility, grief, and other mental health issues abound.
This book sucked me right away with all the family secrets. The author seamlessly weaves Jane and Adam's story together with such talent and sensitivity. Both characters are complex, yet relatable. I loved how surprised I was reading this one. It was a truly emotional and heartwarming story that I will not soon forget. The twists and turns had me furiously flipping pages and made me think of my own many recent losses, including my dad seven months ago. I can't recommend this one enough. All. The. Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
Oh wow, this is my first Susan Walter book, but it certainly won't be my last, this was simply incredible. Jane just lost her dad when she finds out that he had led a double life. Then there is sixteen-year-old adopted Adam, who's going through some typical teenage angst when he finds letters written to him from his biological mom. Eventually, we learn how Jane and Adam are connected through decades of family trauma and drama. Still, it's not what you think. These two characters took me along on their emotional journeys and gave me all the feels. There are heavy topical themes within this story, such as infertility, grief, and other mental health issues abound.
This book sucked me right away with all the family secrets. The author seamlessly weaves Jane and Adam's story together with such talent and sensitivity. Both characters are complex, yet relatable. I loved how surprised I was reading this one. It was a truly emotional and heartwarming story that I will not soon forget. The twists and turns had me furiously flipping pages and made me think of my own many recent losses, including my dad seven months ago. I can't recommend this one enough. All. The. Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
May 23, 2025
Letters From Strangers written by Susan Walter was complicated, messy, beautiful, heart breaking, and full of secrets. After loving Lie by the Pool by this author, I knew I had to get my hands on her newest book Letters from Strangers and I'm so happy I got to because this book was absolutely beautiful and gut wrenching. When I saw that beautifully detailed cover, I didn't expect to be so emotionally distraught while reading the heart breaking words inside. From the very beginning all the way until the very last page, my eyes were like a waterfall, I couldn't keep the tears back. Susan Walter is one talented author, I don't know how she can write a thriller and then go and write a family saga full of secrets that's so heart breaking. All of the characters felt so authentic, their stories were so powerful, it was extremely hard not to root for them as they navigated their struggles during this difficult time. Letters From Strangers is a beautiful story about two strangers who are searching for the truth about their families after discovering a box of letters that contain so many secrets. If you are looking for a book about a family saga with hidden secrets, and you want to bawl your eyes out, look no further than Letters From Strangers written by Susan Walter and make sure your calendars are marked for May 27th, 2025 for the release of this book. If anyone does decide to read this book, please be mindful and check the trigger warning's, which will also be listed below in my review. 💌Please read the author's at the end, it's so important that you don't skip over it💌.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND LAKE UNION PUBLISHING FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!
TRIGGER WARNING'S
~Mentions of Suicide~
~Eating Disorders~
~Unplanned Pregnancy~
~Infidelity~
~Infertility~
"When God gives you a miracle, you don't give it back".
"😭🎶Why cry alone when you can cry with Celine Dion?" Tears were water falling into my open mouth😭🎶.
"💔Losing a parent is largely inevitable, but when it happens, it's as incongruous as losing a piece of the sky💔".
"👿💯Ignorance may not be bliss, but being in the dark is better than stumbling around in the haze of mistrust👿💯".
"😭💗People choose closed adoption for a variety of reasons, often it's to put a difficult chapter behind them😭💗".
"😭🌈Crying on your therapist's couch is so clichéd😭🌈".
"🌟You only get one chance at life, you should spend it with the person who brings you joy🌟".
Jane Berenson's father's death was as startling as it was unremarkable, he was Jane's protector, her backstop when life hurled a curve ball at her, his charisma was his song. After her father's passing, Jane found a stack of letters left behind that held so many secrets, but the biggest one is that her father was having an affair with a mystery woman and she was pregnant with his baby. In 1983, when Jane was just a teenager, she spoke to her father's mistress on the phone but had no idea who she was. As Jane is going through these letters, the last one was written in September 1983. After some time passes, Jane decides to go to Boston, Massachusetts to get answers from this mysterious woman, but with no such luck along the way. Jane now lives in Southern California, but grew up in Boston. Jane's back story broke my heart, she had an eating disorder is her early teens, intermittent tobacco and marijuana use in her twenties, and had three surgeries for early stage skin cancer right before she turned thirty years old. Richard "Richie" Berenson was a look at the bright side kind of guy. Richie was a complicated man who lived life to the fullest. Richie had an airplane- a single engine four seater that he kept at a private airport in Boston- he was hardly ever home. Richie had another life on the side, he had a forbidden love affair for nine or more years because he claimed he was unhappy in his marriage to Jane's mother. Richie would take "business trips", but secretly he was just visiting this woman. Richard left behind thirty three letters in his office after he passed away.
Adam Ross is sixteen years old, he was born June 7th, 1984. Adam struggles with an eating disorder, so his parents hired a dietitian to help him lose weight. His mom wanted him to be a healthy sports superstar and they also wanted Adam to be a professional tennis player, but in his junior year of high school, Adam discovered his love for football in gym class. The Summer before second grade when Adam was seven years old, he found out he was adopted, his adoption was closed which meant that the identity of his birth parents was sealed. Adam's adoptive parents, Gloria and Marvin Ross never met nor knew Adam's birth mother's name because of the closed adoption. On April 29th, 2001, Adam wrote a letter to his birth mother that he wanted to meet her. How could Adam possibly know who she is if it was a closed adoption? You will have to read this book to find out. The last and final letter confirmed a truth I didn't see coming at all, I was truly shocked. My heart broke for Adam, but he made so much progress throughout this book, it was truly inspiring to read. I know Adam's adoptive parents were hard on him and even rude to him at times, but I think it truly made him open his eyes and push himself to be the best version of himself he can ever be. Despite how heart breaking all of these characters stories were, they were also so powerful, it was just hard not to root for everyone involved, including this mysterious woman because after you read her perspective, you will know why she did what she did. During my time reading Letters From Strangers, it felt like I was right there witnessing all of the secrets unravel.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND LAKE UNION PUBLISHING FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!
TRIGGER WARNING'S
~Mentions of Suicide~
~Eating Disorders~
~Unplanned Pregnancy~
~Infidelity~
~Infertility~
"When God gives you a miracle, you don't give it back".
"😭🎶Why cry alone when you can cry with Celine Dion?" Tears were water falling into my open mouth😭🎶.
"💔Losing a parent is largely inevitable, but when it happens, it's as incongruous as losing a piece of the sky💔".
"👿💯Ignorance may not be bliss, but being in the dark is better than stumbling around in the haze of mistrust👿💯".
"😭💗People choose closed adoption for a variety of reasons, often it's to put a difficult chapter behind them😭💗".
"😭🌈Crying on your therapist's couch is so clichéd😭🌈".
"🌟You only get one chance at life, you should spend it with the person who brings you joy🌟".
Jane Berenson's father's death was as startling as it was unremarkable, he was Jane's protector, her backstop when life hurled a curve ball at her, his charisma was his song. After her father's passing, Jane found a stack of letters left behind that held so many secrets, but the biggest one is that her father was having an affair with a mystery woman and she was pregnant with his baby. In 1983, when Jane was just a teenager, she spoke to her father's mistress on the phone but had no idea who she was. As Jane is going through these letters, the last one was written in September 1983. After some time passes, Jane decides to go to Boston, Massachusetts to get answers from this mysterious woman, but with no such luck along the way. Jane now lives in Southern California, but grew up in Boston. Jane's back story broke my heart, she had an eating disorder is her early teens, intermittent tobacco and marijuana use in her twenties, and had three surgeries for early stage skin cancer right before she turned thirty years old. Richard "Richie" Berenson was a look at the bright side kind of guy. Richie was a complicated man who lived life to the fullest. Richie had an airplane- a single engine four seater that he kept at a private airport in Boston- he was hardly ever home. Richie had another life on the side, he had a forbidden love affair for nine or more years because he claimed he was unhappy in his marriage to Jane's mother. Richie would take "business trips", but secretly he was just visiting this woman. Richard left behind thirty three letters in his office after he passed away.
Adam Ross is sixteen years old, he was born June 7th, 1984. Adam struggles with an eating disorder, so his parents hired a dietitian to help him lose weight. His mom wanted him to be a healthy sports superstar and they also wanted Adam to be a professional tennis player, but in his junior year of high school, Adam discovered his love for football in gym class. The Summer before second grade when Adam was seven years old, he found out he was adopted, his adoption was closed which meant that the identity of his birth parents was sealed. Adam's adoptive parents, Gloria and Marvin Ross never met nor knew Adam's birth mother's name because of the closed adoption. On April 29th, 2001, Adam wrote a letter to his birth mother that he wanted to meet her. How could Adam possibly know who she is if it was a closed adoption? You will have to read this book to find out. The last and final letter confirmed a truth I didn't see coming at all, I was truly shocked. My heart broke for Adam, but he made so much progress throughout this book, it was truly inspiring to read. I know Adam's adoptive parents were hard on him and even rude to him at times, but I think it truly made him open his eyes and push himself to be the best version of himself he can ever be. Despite how heart breaking all of these characters stories were, they were also so powerful, it was just hard not to root for everyone involved, including this mysterious woman because after you read her perspective, you will know why she did what she did. During my time reading Letters From Strangers, it felt like I was right there witnessing all of the secrets unravel.
May 27, 2025
Susan Walter may be known as the creator of the 2017 film “All I Wish”, and as the author of FOUR thrillers, but this time she has penned a family saga, spanning two decades, which was inspired by a true event…
It’s a story about two strangers who are each searching for the truth about their families—after discovering a SECRET.
The sudden death of Jane’s father, Richie brings more than grief. It also delivers a stack of letters pointing to a secret life with another woman-GM-who may have had his child.
Across the country, sixteen-year-old Adam is grappling with his own issues. His adoptive parents never intended to show him the unsigned letters from his birth mother, but he has recently began to feel an aching hole that can only be filled with answers.
BUT LETTERS ONLY TELL PART OF A STORY…
And, their search for the truth will lead them toward each other.
This was an EMOTIONAL story which had SO MANY HIGHLIGHT WORTHY passages. The characters felt authentic, and as they navigated their messy lives, their emotions rang true. I found myself teary eyed more than once.
This was VERY different from previous work-a slower, more reflective pace…but, I really enjoyed it! I am a fan of the author’s work and all FIVE of her books have earned 4 shiny stars from me!
Was it a hit for MarilynW and Mary Beth? Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews!
NOW AVAILABLE!
TW: Eating Disorders, Infidelity, Infertility, Unplanned Pregnancy
Thank You to Lake Union Publishing for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.
It’s a story about two strangers who are each searching for the truth about their families—after discovering a SECRET.
The sudden death of Jane’s father, Richie brings more than grief. It also delivers a stack of letters pointing to a secret life with another woman-GM-who may have had his child.
Across the country, sixteen-year-old Adam is grappling with his own issues. His adoptive parents never intended to show him the unsigned letters from his birth mother, but he has recently began to feel an aching hole that can only be filled with answers.
BUT LETTERS ONLY TELL PART OF A STORY…
And, their search for the truth will lead them toward each other.
This was an EMOTIONAL story which had SO MANY HIGHLIGHT WORTHY passages. The characters felt authentic, and as they navigated their messy lives, their emotions rang true. I found myself teary eyed more than once.
This was VERY different from previous work-a slower, more reflective pace…but, I really enjoyed it! I am a fan of the author’s work and all FIVE of her books have earned 4 shiny stars from me!
Was it a hit for MarilynW and Mary Beth? Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews!
NOW AVAILABLE!
TW: Eating Disorders, Infidelity, Infertility, Unplanned Pregnancy
Thank You to Lake Union Publishing for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.
June 30, 2025
Two strangers looking for answers about family...
On the West Coast, Jane discovers a stack of letters after the abrupt death of her father, revealing his secret life. He may have had a child with another woman...
On the East Coast, Adam, a struggling teen, is surprised when his adoptive parents hand him unsigned letters from his birth mother. Now he needs to know more...
Letters from Strangers is a well-written emotional story with important topics woven throughout. The short chapters kept me turning the pages and reading on as it explored themes of loss and grief, the consequences of secrecy, healing through forgiveness, and accepting oneself and others. There were more than just a few heartbreaking moments in this tale.
My one niggle is with my immersion reading experience, specific to the audiobook. The two narrators, voicing and recounting the story as Jane and Adam, sound overly young and animated, giving this a YA feel. I began reading more than listening, and was glad I had the digital copy to fall back on.
Letters from Strangers is a story about how life can gain new meaning through self-belief and connection with others. Be sure to read the author's note at the end to discover what inspired the writing of this story.
3.75⭐
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing, Brilliance Audio, and Susan Walter for the gifted DRC and ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
On the West Coast, Jane discovers a stack of letters after the abrupt death of her father, revealing his secret life. He may have had a child with another woman...
On the East Coast, Adam, a struggling teen, is surprised when his adoptive parents hand him unsigned letters from his birth mother. Now he needs to know more...
Letters from Strangers is a well-written emotional story with important topics woven throughout. The short chapters kept me turning the pages and reading on as it explored themes of loss and grief, the consequences of secrecy, healing through forgiveness, and accepting oneself and others. There were more than just a few heartbreaking moments in this tale.
My one niggle is with my immersion reading experience, specific to the audiobook. The two narrators, voicing and recounting the story as Jane and Adam, sound overly young and animated, giving this a YA feel. I began reading more than listening, and was glad I had the digital copy to fall back on.
Letters from Strangers is a story about how life can gain new meaning through self-belief and connection with others. Be sure to read the author's note at the end to discover what inspired the writing of this story.
3.75⭐
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing, Brilliance Audio, and Susan Walter for the gifted DRC and ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 8, 2025
As a reader, I always get a little nervous when an author decides to change genres. So when I saw that Susan Walter, a go to thriller author, was now releasing a family drama I was a bit hesitant. Who am I kidding?! I immediately grabbed it.😂
So…did she pull it off? She hit this one out of the ballpark! Susan, you just delivered a true home run!
Two storylines, winding their way towards each-other until converging in an emotional ending.
Jane- just lost her father, and as she cleans out his office she comes across a deeply buried secret. One she can’t let go of
Adam - sixteen years old, feels a hole in his soul. His only way to fill it is with food. Can he find the answers he searches for in order to heal both body and mind.
Loved the characters and their journeys to find the answers they desperately needed in order to move forward.
A beautiful family drama that delivers all the feels. Deeply enough that it caused some misting up on my part. I’m such a softie!🙄🤦🏻♀️
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing
So…did she pull it off? She hit this one out of the ballpark! Susan, you just delivered a true home run!
Two storylines, winding their way towards each-other until converging in an emotional ending.
Jane- just lost her father, and as she cleans out his office she comes across a deeply buried secret. One she can’t let go of
Adam - sixteen years old, feels a hole in his soul. His only way to fill it is with food. Can he find the answers he searches for in order to heal both body and mind.
Loved the characters and their journeys to find the answers they desperately needed in order to move forward.
A beautiful family drama that delivers all the feels. Deeply enough that it caused some misting up on my part. I’m such a softie!🙄🤦🏻♀️
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing
June 24, 2025
Poignant, touching, and beyond thought-provoking, Letters From Strangers was quite the special novel. A mix of women’s fiction, a mild mystery, and plenty of family drama, I was swept into the world of these authentic characters and their real-feeling troubles. You see, while the overarching story was an easy-to-fall-into mystery that had my instant adoration, the psychologically acute exploration of self-worth, family, love, and redemption was what ultimately won me over hook, line, and sinker. From the raw look at each of the multiple POVs thoughts, feelings, and emotions to the various character arcs, which felt heartfelt and compelling, I was pushed to tears more than once as I raced through the pages with a box of tissues by my side.
While the plot was flawlessly written with three parts split into dual timelines and multiple POVs, it was the character-driven storyline that made it into the winner that it was. Richly layered and fully fleshed out, each of the personas spoke to a part of my soul. Not that I went through any of the dilemmas within these pages myself, but due to how they were each brought palpably to life, I felt like a fly on the wall in no uncertain terms. With most books that I’ve read in the past, there are usually a couple of choice individuals who are the focus. With this stunning story, however, they were all the special sauce to me feeling all of the feels. From self-doubt and worthlessness to a loss that you can feel down to your bones, Ms. Walter somehow created a world that was as true-to-life as it was eloquently immersive.
All said and done, I was blown away by the skill that this thriller author showed within a brand-new genre. Humanizing all of those involved—including the villains—I was swept up by each and every one as I flew through the chapters. But it was the soul-satisfying conclusion that branded it an utter home run in my eyes. Coming full circle, it rounded off this plot full of long-buried secrets and lies with an ending that brought a smile to my face along with a dose of quiet understanding. Packing quite the emotional punch with a dash of suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat, it would be the perfect pick for any book club looking for a source of discussion. After all, not only was it filled with fictional drama and intrigue, but it was inspired by actual events. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Jane’s father is far from perfect. But his sudden death brings crushing grief. As Jane grapples with her pain, life delivers another blow: a stack of letters pointing to a secret life. A life her father shared with another woman…who may have had his child.
Across the country, sixteen-year-old Adam is self-destructing. His adoptive parents never intended to show him the unsigned letters from his birth mother, but he is desperate for answers, even if they hurt.
Jane and Adam are on a collision course, but not for the reasons we might suspect. Because the letters do not tell the whole story. What is true is that Adam and Jane are both looking for a woman who does not want to be found.
Thank you to Susan Walter and Lake Union Publishing for my complimentary copy. all opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: May 27, 2025
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling list of triggers.
Content warning: death of a parent, infertility, adoption, eating disorder, infidelity, suicide, abortion, mention of: emotional abuse, divorce, miscarriage
While the plot was flawlessly written with three parts split into dual timelines and multiple POVs, it was the character-driven storyline that made it into the winner that it was. Richly layered and fully fleshed out, each of the personas spoke to a part of my soul. Not that I went through any of the dilemmas within these pages myself, but due to how they were each brought palpably to life, I felt like a fly on the wall in no uncertain terms. With most books that I’ve read in the past, there are usually a couple of choice individuals who are the focus. With this stunning story, however, they were all the special sauce to me feeling all of the feels. From self-doubt and worthlessness to a loss that you can feel down to your bones, Ms. Walter somehow created a world that was as true-to-life as it was eloquently immersive.
All said and done, I was blown away by the skill that this thriller author showed within a brand-new genre. Humanizing all of those involved—including the villains—I was swept up by each and every one as I flew through the chapters. But it was the soul-satisfying conclusion that branded it an utter home run in my eyes. Coming full circle, it rounded off this plot full of long-buried secrets and lies with an ending that brought a smile to my face along with a dose of quiet understanding. Packing quite the emotional punch with a dash of suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat, it would be the perfect pick for any book club looking for a source of discussion. After all, not only was it filled with fictional drama and intrigue, but it was inspired by actual events. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Jane’s father is far from perfect. But his sudden death brings crushing grief. As Jane grapples with her pain, life delivers another blow: a stack of letters pointing to a secret life. A life her father shared with another woman…who may have had his child.
Across the country, sixteen-year-old Adam is self-destructing. His adoptive parents never intended to show him the unsigned letters from his birth mother, but he is desperate for answers, even if they hurt.
Jane and Adam are on a collision course, but not for the reasons we might suspect. Because the letters do not tell the whole story. What is true is that Adam and Jane are both looking for a woman who does not want to be found.
Thank you to Susan Walter and Lake Union Publishing for my complimentary copy. all opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: May 27, 2025
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling list of triggers.
Content warning: death of a parent, infertility, adoption, eating disorder, infidelity, suicide, abortion, mention of: emotional abuse, divorce, miscarriage
February 10, 2025
On the West Coast, Jane‘s father has just died. Her emotions are mixed as their relationship has been far from an easy one. As she struggles with her pain, she makes a discovery about her father which delivers a big blow. A series of letters from the 1980s reveal he has had a double life, They appear to have shared him with another woman who may have had his child.
Meanwhile on the other side of the country, 16 year old Adam is struggling with a number of issues. His adoptive parents give him some unsigned letters from his birth mother which understandably makes Adam want to learn more. Although divided by thousands of miles, both are seeking answers to major questions. Will they find them and get some kind of closure?
I do not find the start as riveting as I hope but eventually I am pulled into the narrative although it never fully grabs me. This is because I think it’s drawn out in places and maybe would have had greater impact as a novella.
However, it is sensitively written, at times it is tender and sweet and there is plenty of emotion. The letters add a good bit of mystery to the storyline. I like Adam very much and his portrayal is very good and his issues could be very relatable to other teens struggling with difficult issues and indeed, the novel could be marketed as YA. I grow to increasingly like Jane as the novel progresses, as at the start she’s a bit of a bull in a china shop though she has the grace to later recognise that. As what she has had to contend with becomes clearer, she wins my sympathy and a measure of admiration.
The novel is good on issues such as eating disorders and grief. I like the ending very much and it feels right as we dismount the emotional rollercoaster as the truth sets characters free.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Lake Union for the much appreciated epub in return for an honest review.
Meanwhile on the other side of the country, 16 year old Adam is struggling with a number of issues. His adoptive parents give him some unsigned letters from his birth mother which understandably makes Adam want to learn more. Although divided by thousands of miles, both are seeking answers to major questions. Will they find them and get some kind of closure?
I do not find the start as riveting as I hope but eventually I am pulled into the narrative although it never fully grabs me. This is because I think it’s drawn out in places and maybe would have had greater impact as a novella.
However, it is sensitively written, at times it is tender and sweet and there is plenty of emotion. The letters add a good bit of mystery to the storyline. I like Adam very much and his portrayal is very good and his issues could be very relatable to other teens struggling with difficult issues and indeed, the novel could be marketed as YA. I grow to increasingly like Jane as the novel progresses, as at the start she’s a bit of a bull in a china shop though she has the grace to later recognise that. As what she has had to contend with becomes clearer, she wins my sympathy and a measure of admiration.
The novel is good on issues such as eating disorders and grief. I like the ending very much and it feels right as we dismount the emotional rollercoaster as the truth sets characters free.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Lake Union for the much appreciated epub in return for an honest review.
June 20, 2025
4.5⭐️ Did I end up binging this book on a whim in one sitting? You betcha. Having never read a book by Susan Walter, I had very little idea what to expect. After seeing so many rave reviews from my friends, however, I had a feeling I would enjoy it. This is the type of book that takes a hold on you completely, never letting go until you reach the end. I was enthralled pretty early on, but when we get to the twist, I was glued.
The concept of this book is very unique. Told in a mixed media format, including letters, articles, etc., that allows for a whole host of character cameos, this story centers around two central characters and seeks to tell us just how they intersect. I found myself immersed in the stories of Jane and Adam, both dynamic, multi-faceted characters who you cannot help but feel a connection to. Their perspectives are so distinctly their own; Jane is struggling to come to terms with her father’s secret relationship and potential child, while navigating her own struggles with fertility. For Adam, we experience the life of a teenager struggling with the impact of long-buried secrets coming to the surface. While our characters take quite the journey, by the time we reach the end, they end up exactly where they are meant to be.
🎧 I read this with my ears and it was absolutely fantastic. Narrated by a full cast, including Selah Victor, Eddie Lopez, and Moniqua Plante, the audiobook helped to bring this story to life and enhance the already emotional prose. I highly recommend this format if you are an audiobook listener.
Read if you like:
▪️women’s fiction
▪️family dramas
▪️epistolary format
▪️dual POV
▪️queer rep
Thank you Brilliance Publishing for the advanced copy.
The concept of this book is very unique. Told in a mixed media format, including letters, articles, etc., that allows for a whole host of character cameos, this story centers around two central characters and seeks to tell us just how they intersect. I found myself immersed in the stories of Jane and Adam, both dynamic, multi-faceted characters who you cannot help but feel a connection to. Their perspectives are so distinctly their own; Jane is struggling to come to terms with her father’s secret relationship and potential child, while navigating her own struggles with fertility. For Adam, we experience the life of a teenager struggling with the impact of long-buried secrets coming to the surface. While our characters take quite the journey, by the time we reach the end, they end up exactly where they are meant to be.
🎧 I read this with my ears and it was absolutely fantastic. Narrated by a full cast, including Selah Victor, Eddie Lopez, and Moniqua Plante, the audiobook helped to bring this story to life and enhance the already emotional prose. I highly recommend this format if you are an audiobook listener.
Read if you like:
▪️women’s fiction
▪️family dramas
▪️epistolary format
▪️dual POV
▪️queer rep
Thank you Brilliance Publishing for the advanced copy.
June 18, 2025
4⭐️
🎧 | attempting to listen to my first ever audiobook while I workkk. will I even pay attention? who knows. excited for this mystery, though 🩵
This was my first time listening to a book on Audible, and honestly, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I didn’t think I’d stay that focused since I was working at the same time, but the narration really pulled me in and was really easy to follow along with. I don’t think I would’ve connected with it as much if I had TRULY read it, so the audio made a big difference for me. (Also shout out audible for adjusting playback speeds, I can’t stand a slow narrator 🤞🏼)
BUT- Based on the synopsis, I was expecting something totally different; more of a mystery vibe. But the story actually dove into some really raw, real life topics like eating disorders, struggles with sexual identity, abortion, and IVF. The topics^^ were written with such honesty and care. It never felt overly dramatic, just real, raw, and beautifully written.
And the plot twist??? It made everything so much better. The twist alone took my rating from a 3 to a 4 ⭐️
If you’re in the mood for something a little heavier but still engaging, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try, especially with audibleeee!
🎧 | attempting to listen to my first ever audiobook while I workkk. will I even pay attention? who knows. excited for this mystery, though 🩵
This was my first time listening to a book on Audible, and honestly, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I didn’t think I’d stay that focused since I was working at the same time, but the narration really pulled me in and was really easy to follow along with. I don’t think I would’ve connected with it as much if I had TRULY read it, so the audio made a big difference for me. (Also shout out audible for adjusting playback speeds, I can’t stand a slow narrator 🤞🏼)
BUT- Based on the synopsis, I was expecting something totally different; more of a mystery vibe. But the story actually dove into some really raw, real life topics like eating disorders, struggles with sexual identity, abortion, and IVF. The topics^^ were written with such honesty and care. It never felt overly dramatic, just real, raw, and beautifully written.
And the plot twist??? It made everything so much better. The twist alone took my rating from a 3 to a 4 ⭐️
If you’re in the mood for something a little heavier but still engaging, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try, especially with audibleeee!
June 25, 2025
'What happened? There were so many possible answers to that question, depending on how far I wanted to go back'.
Families are tricky, emotional beasts. Each is nuanced with flaws and triumphs, fate tends to throw its own splash of colour but when Jane finds a stack of letters from her recently deceased dad's lover, it feels as though her whole past is about to be rewritten. Jane would be the first to say her dad wasn't perfect. Despite being a daddy's girl, she's suffered because of him so now that this can of worms has been opened she needs to follow the trail and get some answers. On a different coast teenager Adam seems to have a lot in common with Jane, his family idyll was shaken when he found out he was adopted but despite seeing a counsellor for his eating disorder, he just can't seem admit to himself what really might be wrong.
Ok - so I finished this highly readable book within 24 hours. It covers a lot of topics within one storyline, changing between Jane's and Adam's POV, in an accessible, relatable tone of voice. There’s even a bit of a twist in the slow, layered build-up of chapters. Ultimately though it’s about being honest; honest with others but being honest with yourself. To that end, miscommunication, noncommunication, features heavily and I do find that frustrating personally but in the end it is a very rewarding read.
'...just because you're related by blood doesn't mean you're family'.
Families are tricky, emotional beasts. Each is nuanced with flaws and triumphs, fate tends to throw its own splash of colour but when Jane finds a stack of letters from her recently deceased dad's lover, it feels as though her whole past is about to be rewritten. Jane would be the first to say her dad wasn't perfect. Despite being a daddy's girl, she's suffered because of him so now that this can of worms has been opened she needs to follow the trail and get some answers. On a different coast teenager Adam seems to have a lot in common with Jane, his family idyll was shaken when he found out he was adopted but despite seeing a counsellor for his eating disorder, he just can't seem admit to himself what really might be wrong.
Ok - so I finished this highly readable book within 24 hours. It covers a lot of topics within one storyline, changing between Jane's and Adam's POV, in an accessible, relatable tone of voice. There’s even a bit of a twist in the slow, layered build-up of chapters. Ultimately though it’s about being honest; honest with others but being honest with yourself. To that end, miscommunication, noncommunication, features heavily and I do find that frustrating personally but in the end it is a very rewarding read.
'...just because you're related by blood doesn't mean you're family'.
May 10, 2025
OH my heart. ❤️ I loved this so much!! Definitely a favorite of the year for me. Review to come
January 3, 2025
✰ 3 stars ✰
“But the problem of looking at life from both sides is that real life is not two dimensional, and—contrary to the old adage—what you don’t know can hurt you . . . can hurt you a lot.”
There was a brief moment where I literally paused reading. I paused, because I felt like the rest of the book would be of moot consequences, as I had felt that most of the story would center simply on the search, but due a deliberate indication that pretty much solved all puzzles. But, after mumbling and grumbling for some time, I picked it up again...
And I am glad I did. 👍🏻
“Losing a parent is largely inevitable, but when it happens, it’s as incongruous as losing a piece of the sky. Something that’s always been there suddenly isn’t.”
This statement resonated with me on a personal level; the same could also be said for Jane and Adam, two completely different souls, and yet tied by an invisible red thread of fate that has their paths converge. For when they both stumble upon a set of mysterious and elusive Letters from Strangers it hints of a connection that has both of them searching for hidden truths and buried secrets that are as painful as when they first came to light. 💌 It is that mystery of uncovering whether or not Jane will be able to find her missing half-brother or if Adam could be that child, while he, himself is desperately searching for his mother in vain is what made their struggle capture the triumph of the human spirit through these vulnerable moments. 😥
“How do you explain to a person who grew up with all their puzzle pieces on the table that the need to find your missing one is as basic as the need to breathe?”
Sixteen-year-old Adam was a dear; a boy struggling with his own mental and physical health that led to difficult if not harmful results, his conviction and determination to soothe the lingering feelings of abandonment and loneliness, while also shouldering the burden of defying his adoptive parents to seek out the truth and heal a part of himself that he wished to change was heartfelt and sincere. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 His own developing insecurities and fears about his identity were nicely balanced against his struggle to find his missing mother - a piece of him that he wished to have a moment of closure, if not fill the void of his heart - a remnant of his existence. His relationship with his parents, his football Coach and his new friend, Matty, were all valuable parts of his own life, ones that grew as he even grew as more confident and assured of himself. 🥺
“What I was doing, I was doing for love—a love so pure and deep it overpowered all doubt.”
Jane, too, was a strong-willed character, but certainly not without her flaws; and yet, so relatable in her thoughts and emotions. Her longing for a child of her own, steeped with sadness of those who do, thus having her marriage on the rocks because of that desire, her distant relationship with her own family, because they are a family so mired in keeping quiet their true feelings; 'how I understood that sometimes you need to find all the twisted branches of your family tree to feel rooted.' It was a hard fight to find a way to seek out the truth behind letters that felt like it was almost a palpable sin to bring forth. And yet, the truths that came forth upon their discovery was actually a blessing. 🫶🏻
If I was to applaud anything, it was the gradual, if not seamless way in which the truths did come to light. They were surprising and the writing captured the reveals was effective. It stirred the feelings in my heart on a visceral level - '—sadness, gratitude, regret, awe' - of the chances lost and mistakes made - a lifetime of regret, or the happiness of new opportunities. Those were the quiet, but emotional moments that were portrayed in such an honest way that it did touch me deeply. 🥲💟
“My eyes saw what I didn’t want to be, not what I was. The psyche can be cruel too.”
As much as it became an immersive read, I do have to point out that if certain trigger warnings were mentioned beforehand, I may have hesitated to read it. I do get why they were not mentioned and I do understand the importance of shedding light upon it, but it definitely made it more of a challenge to read, for how much it did take up significant parts of the narrative. 🤷🏻��️ 'It’s hard to be nice to someone when you’re disappointed in yourself.' There was also a certain unevenness in the alterations between Jane and Adam's perspectives that I wished didn't exist; especially in regards to the actual letters, themselves... And it's not like I am holding a prejudice against Jane's father's mistress, but I wished the author could have given her more of her past a stronger approach. I felt that her storyline was dismissed too easily, almost forgettable. I also felt that the attempt to redeem Jane's father for his conscientious, if not questionable behavior towards Jane was unnecessary and made me a bit annoyed, too. 🙍🏻♀️
All things considered, it still was a tender and emotional reflection of the two unique ways we confront our grief and channel our hearts to accept those painful truths in order to move forward in life, while finding it in her hearts to forgive others and ourselves for choices not in our hands - 'connecting with you forced me to confront some difficult things'. The emotional acceptance to embrace our true selves and find the ones who will love you still for it. An honest, if not heartbreaking depiction of how parental love can be both a weapon and a blessing depending on the nature of which it is given. It is a heartfelt story of how love has the ability to find its way back to those who never let it go, even when it still hurts to remember what it felt like. A second chance of love and living that makes Jane and Adam discover the true meaning of family and how words can still mean something, no matter how long it takes to reach them. 🙏🏻🫂
*Thank you to NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“But the problem of looking at life from both sides is that real life is not two dimensional, and—contrary to the old adage—what you don’t know can hurt you . . . can hurt you a lot.”
There was a brief moment where I literally paused reading. I paused, because I felt like the rest of the book would be of moot consequences, as I had felt that most of the story would center simply on the search, but due a deliberate indication that pretty much solved all puzzles. But, after mumbling and grumbling for some time, I picked it up again...
And I am glad I did. 👍🏻
“Losing a parent is largely inevitable, but when it happens, it’s as incongruous as losing a piece of the sky. Something that’s always been there suddenly isn’t.”
This statement resonated with me on a personal level; the same could also be said for Jane and Adam, two completely different souls, and yet tied by an invisible red thread of fate that has their paths converge. For when they both stumble upon a set of mysterious and elusive Letters from Strangers it hints of a connection that has both of them searching for hidden truths and buried secrets that are as painful as when they first came to light. 💌 It is that mystery of uncovering whether or not Jane will be able to find her missing half-brother or if Adam could be that child, while he, himself is desperately searching for his mother in vain is what made their struggle capture the triumph of the human spirit through these vulnerable moments. 😥
“How do you explain to a person who grew up with all their puzzle pieces on the table that the need to find your missing one is as basic as the need to breathe?”
Sixteen-year-old Adam was a dear; a boy struggling with his own mental and physical health that led to difficult if not harmful results, his conviction and determination to soothe the lingering feelings of abandonment and loneliness, while also shouldering the burden of defying his adoptive parents to seek out the truth and heal a part of himself that he wished to change was heartfelt and sincere. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 His own developing insecurities and fears about his identity were nicely balanced against his struggle to find his missing mother - a piece of him that he wished to have a moment of closure, if not fill the void of his heart - a remnant of his existence. His relationship with his parents, his football Coach and his new friend, Matty, were all valuable parts of his own life, ones that grew as he even grew as more confident and assured of himself. 🥺
“What I was doing, I was doing for love—a love so pure and deep it overpowered all doubt.”
Jane, too, was a strong-willed character, but certainly not without her flaws; and yet, so relatable in her thoughts and emotions. Her longing for a child of her own, steeped with sadness of those who do, thus having her marriage on the rocks because of that desire, her distant relationship with her own family, because they are a family so mired in keeping quiet their true feelings; 'how I understood that sometimes you need to find all the twisted branches of your family tree to feel rooted.' It was a hard fight to find a way to seek out the truth behind letters that felt like it was almost a palpable sin to bring forth. And yet, the truths that came forth upon their discovery was actually a blessing. 🫶🏻
If I was to applaud anything, it was the gradual, if not seamless way in which the truths did come to light. They were surprising and the writing captured the reveals was effective. It stirred the feelings in my heart on a visceral level - '—sadness, gratitude, regret, awe' - of the chances lost and mistakes made - a lifetime of regret, or the happiness of new opportunities. Those were the quiet, but emotional moments that were portrayed in such an honest way that it did touch me deeply. 🥲💟
“My eyes saw what I didn’t want to be, not what I was. The psyche can be cruel too.”
As much as it became an immersive read, I do have to point out that if certain trigger warnings were mentioned beforehand, I may have hesitated to read it. I do get why they were not mentioned and I do understand the importance of shedding light upon it, but it definitely made it more of a challenge to read, for how much it did take up significant parts of the narrative. 🤷🏻��️ 'It’s hard to be nice to someone when you’re disappointed in yourself.' There was also a certain unevenness in the alterations between Jane and Adam's perspectives that I wished didn't exist; especially in regards to the actual letters, themselves... And it's not like I am holding a prejudice against Jane's father's mistress, but I wished the author could have given her more of her past a stronger approach. I felt that her storyline was dismissed too easily, almost forgettable. I also felt that the attempt to redeem Jane's father for his conscientious, if not questionable behavior towards Jane was unnecessary and made me a bit annoyed, too. 🙍🏻♀️
All things considered, it still was a tender and emotional reflection of the two unique ways we confront our grief and channel our hearts to accept those painful truths in order to move forward in life, while finding it in her hearts to forgive others and ourselves for choices not in our hands - 'connecting with you forced me to confront some difficult things'. The emotional acceptance to embrace our true selves and find the ones who will love you still for it. An honest, if not heartbreaking depiction of how parental love can be both a weapon and a blessing depending on the nature of which it is given. It is a heartfelt story of how love has the ability to find its way back to those who never let it go, even when it still hurts to remember what it felt like. A second chance of love and living that makes Jane and Adam discover the true meaning of family and how words can still mean something, no matter how long it takes to reach them. 🙏🏻🫂
*Thank you to NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2025
I commend talented thriller writer Susan Walter for venturing outside her comfort zone.
Although this character-driven, emotionally resonant domestic drama was on point and compelling, it was not for me.
WHY?
1) At times, it had a YA vibe.
Both protagonists revealed complex emotions experienced during their adolescent years.
YA is not my preferred genre.
2) Very, very, very melodramatic.
3) Pacing in the beginning was slow.
4) The book's ending was sickly-sweet. (I am watching my sugar intake!)
5) Waaay too many TWs:
Eating Disorders, Infidelity, Infertility, Pregnancy Loss, Adoption.
SURPRISING FUN FACT:
The book's protagonist's name was Jane.
Jane grew up in my hometown and had a dog named Tarzan.
My name is Jayne, and I wanted to name our dog Tarzan, but my family outvoted me!
I listened to the audiobook, expertly narrated by Selah Victor, Eddie Lopez, and Moniqua Plante.
All narrators did a superb job with the narration.
3.5 stars
June 10, 2025
A delight.
4.5 stars rounded up.
An unexpected family death brings to life hidden letters and decades-old secrets in this wonderfully rewarding family saga that marks a notable and successful departure from author Susan Walter's thriller roots.
Jane has just lost her father. Meanwhile, across the country, sixteen-year old Adam is looking for his birth mother. As their parallel narratives gradually intertwine, "Letters from Strangers" becomes a tender, heartfelt exploration of parents and their children, identity, and the question of what makes a family.
"Letters from Strangers" tackles heavy issues such as grief, emotional abuse, eating disorders, infertility, and adoption, but it never feels overly heavy, handling hard topics with empathy and care. The result is a sweeping story full of reliable characters that is both poignant and unexpectedly uplifting. Even expected twists and turns are made into plot revelations by the author's exquisite writing, and true to her thriller background, a few well-placed surprises still manage to catch you off guard.
I very much enjoyed this novel, and will be reading more from Susan Walter in the future - regardless of the genre, given how seamlessly she transitions between different ones.
If you appreciate character-driven, emotionally resonant fiction that handles life’s hardest questions with compassion and nuance, "Letters from Strangers" is not to be missed.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the free copy in exchange for my honest review.
"Letters from Strangers" was published on May 27, 2025, and is available now.
4.5 stars rounded up.
“Losing a parent is largely inevitable, but when it happens, it’s as incongruous as losing a piece of the sky. Something that’s always been there suddenly isn’t.”
An unexpected family death brings to life hidden letters and decades-old secrets in this wonderfully rewarding family saga that marks a notable and successful departure from author Susan Walter's thriller roots.
Jane has just lost her father. Meanwhile, across the country, sixteen-year old Adam is looking for his birth mother. As their parallel narratives gradually intertwine, "Letters from Strangers" becomes a tender, heartfelt exploration of parents and their children, identity, and the question of what makes a family.
"Letters from Strangers" tackles heavy issues such as grief, emotional abuse, eating disorders, infertility, and adoption, but it never feels overly heavy, handling hard topics with empathy and care. The result is a sweeping story full of reliable characters that is both poignant and unexpectedly uplifting. Even expected twists and turns are made into plot revelations by the author's exquisite writing, and true to her thriller background, a few well-placed surprises still manage to catch you off guard.
I very much enjoyed this novel, and will be reading more from Susan Walter in the future - regardless of the genre, given how seamlessly she transitions between different ones.
If you appreciate character-driven, emotionally resonant fiction that handles life’s hardest questions with compassion and nuance, "Letters from Strangers" is not to be missed.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the free copy in exchange for my honest review.
"Letters from Strangers" was published on May 27, 2025, and is available now.
October 19, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️
A “new to me” author and what a delight this was.
Jane’s father suddenly passes away, and with that, opens a web of lies. A reality that is not what it seems. Then we have Adam, a 16 year old, struggling to cope with his adoption and all teenage worries. Little do they know that Jane and Adam will intercept in their lives.
This is an emotional family drama that tackles adoption, emotional abuse, eating disorders and infidelity. All these issues and more; yet the book never felt heavy handed.
Very rarely, will an author catch me off guard and this book accomplished that. I was reading along and stopped and said aloud “what?!”. Well played SW.
This is a family drama done very well that spans two decades. It reminds us that good things come from past mistakes. The icing on the cake is it is based on a true story. Highly recommend.
A “new to me” author and what a delight this was.
Jane’s father suddenly passes away, and with that, opens a web of lies. A reality that is not what it seems. Then we have Adam, a 16 year old, struggling to cope with his adoption and all teenage worries. Little do they know that Jane and Adam will intercept in their lives.
This is an emotional family drama that tackles adoption, emotional abuse, eating disorders and infidelity. All these issues and more; yet the book never felt heavy handed.
Very rarely, will an author catch me off guard and this book accomplished that. I was reading along and stopped and said aloud “what?!”. Well played SW.
This is a family drama done very well that spans two decades. It reminds us that good things come from past mistakes. The icing on the cake is it is based on a true story. Highly recommend.
June 7, 2025
“I looked out at my golden retriever friend, lying on his belly, wagging his tail. His joy was palpable. It was great to be evolved with a big brain and an opposable thumb and all that, but sometimes it felt like we humans spent our childhood collecting insecurities, and our adult lives trying to shed them.”
Jane is searching for her deceased father’s mistress and possibly a half sibling. Adam, a sixteen year old boy, is searching for his biological mother. Jane discovers love letters written to her father and Adam is given old letters written to him from his birth mom. These letters start them both on a journey that will have lasting impacts.
Told in alternating points of view, by Jane and Adam with letters interspersed in between, I was instantaneously drawn into their lives. Jane is desperately trying to have a child with her husband, while also dealing with past emotions brought up by her father’s death. Adam is struggling with his identity, following his own path and his sense of self and belonging. The time period spans from the 1980s to the early 2000s and is the PERFECT backdrop for their stories given the topics raised. While I felt for them both, I ADORED Adam and was impacted by his story the most. I get a little choked up even now just thinking about it. Make sure you have tissues handy because those heart strings are going to get tugged, but in the best way possible!
It must be said that I am SUPER picky about family dramas and I LOVED this book. Themes of grief, self worth, standing up for yourself, redemption, being true to who you are, and struggles with eating disorders, had my FULL emotional investment. Sometimes the kindness of just one person can shift our understanding of events, and having a single person believe in you can be the difference between failure and success. While this may not be a thriller, Susan Walter crafted some stunning surprises that held me as riveted as if it was!
LETTERS FROM STRANGERS is full of poignant depth, a vast array of complex people making difficult decisions and morally grey situations that are the nature of life. I think the less said the better and you just need to dive into this incredibly moving family drama for yourself. Be sure to read Susan’s touching Author Note once you’ve experienced this beautiful story.
____
Thank you Susan Walter for my free copy. All thoughts are my own.
Jane is searching for her deceased father’s mistress and possibly a half sibling. Adam, a sixteen year old boy, is searching for his biological mother. Jane discovers love letters written to her father and Adam is given old letters written to him from his birth mom. These letters start them both on a journey that will have lasting impacts.
Told in alternating points of view, by Jane and Adam with letters interspersed in between, I was instantaneously drawn into their lives. Jane is desperately trying to have a child with her husband, while also dealing with past emotions brought up by her father’s death. Adam is struggling with his identity, following his own path and his sense of self and belonging. The time period spans from the 1980s to the early 2000s and is the PERFECT backdrop for their stories given the topics raised. While I felt for them both, I ADORED Adam and was impacted by his story the most. I get a little choked up even now just thinking about it. Make sure you have tissues handy because those heart strings are going to get tugged, but in the best way possible!
It must be said that I am SUPER picky about family dramas and I LOVED this book. Themes of grief, self worth, standing up for yourself, redemption, being true to who you are, and struggles with eating disorders, had my FULL emotional investment. Sometimes the kindness of just one person can shift our understanding of events, and having a single person believe in you can be the difference between failure and success. While this may not be a thriller, Susan Walter crafted some stunning surprises that held me as riveted as if it was!
LETTERS FROM STRANGERS is full of poignant depth, a vast array of complex people making difficult decisions and morally grey situations that are the nature of life. I think the less said the better and you just need to dive into this incredibly moving family drama for yourself. Be sure to read Susan’s touching Author Note once you’ve experienced this beautiful story.
____
Thank you Susan Walter for my free copy. All thoughts are my own.
October 22, 2025
**4.5 Stars**
This started gently, but there’s a bit of misdirection. I initially thought one story path would lead to another, but it cleverly weaves in subtle twists.
We have the death of Jane’s father, and sadly, he wasn’t the easiest person. Despite this, Jane idolised him, even though his behaviour towards her and her brother caused damage. He carried many secrets.
Upon her father’s death, Jane’s aloof mother, who isn’t a warm and fuzzy person, isn’t interested in going through his belongings. Determined to find answers, Jane discovers a stash of letters revealing her father’s secret life.
We also meet Adam, who is navigating life with his adoptive parents. He seems to be spiralling as he yearns to find his birth mother. Although he could never want for better parents, he doesn’t feel whole.
Now, Jane and Adam are both searching for a woman to get answers. What will they find? Misunderstandings and hard truths, as this all started with lies and secrets.
**Triggers this book contains some body images problems and eating disorders**
This started gently, but there’s a bit of misdirection. I initially thought one story path would lead to another, but it cleverly weaves in subtle twists.
We have the death of Jane’s father, and sadly, he wasn’t the easiest person. Despite this, Jane idolised him, even though his behaviour towards her and her brother caused damage. He carried many secrets.
Upon her father’s death, Jane’s aloof mother, who isn’t a warm and fuzzy person, isn’t interested in going through his belongings. Determined to find answers, Jane discovers a stash of letters revealing her father’s secret life.
We also meet Adam, who is navigating life with his adoptive parents. He seems to be spiralling as he yearns to find his birth mother. Although he could never want for better parents, he doesn’t feel whole.
Now, Jane and Adam are both searching for a woman to get answers. What will they find? Misunderstandings and hard truths, as this all started with lies and secrets.
**Triggers this book contains some body images problems and eating disorders**
August 19, 2025
“Why cry alone when you can cry with Celine Dion?"
Letters from Strangers is about two strangers looking for answers, from secrets that can both fracture and heal, and how the past refuses to stay buried. I found myself rooting for these characters even when their paths were painful and their choices flawed. Binge-worthy, emotionally potent, and deeply affecting this story lingers long after the last letter is read.
I was utterly captivated by the double timeline and dual POV structure narrating the perspectives of two strangers across time creating this beautifully layered narrative that held me in its grip. Watching their stories intertwine, with past and present colliding in emotional echoes, made every chapter feel rich and immersive. As the voices shift between the now and then, we see how decisions made decades ago ripple into their present day, reshaping identities, relationships, and the perception of home.
“ You only get one chance at life, you should spend it with the person who brings you joy”
Content warnings: This book tackles some heavy themes, including body dysmorphia, anorexia and disordered eating, adoption, abortion, suicide, and infidelity, infertility.
“Family is what you make, not what you are born into”
Letters from Strangers is about two strangers looking for answers, from secrets that can both fracture and heal, and how the past refuses to stay buried. I found myself rooting for these characters even when their paths were painful and their choices flawed. Binge-worthy, emotionally potent, and deeply affecting this story lingers long after the last letter is read.
I was utterly captivated by the double timeline and dual POV structure narrating the perspectives of two strangers across time creating this beautifully layered narrative that held me in its grip. Watching their stories intertwine, with past and present colliding in emotional echoes, made every chapter feel rich and immersive. As the voices shift between the now and then, we see how decisions made decades ago ripple into their present day, reshaping identities, relationships, and the perception of home.
“ You only get one chance at life, you should spend it with the person who brings you joy”
Content warnings: This book tackles some heavy themes, including body dysmorphia, anorexia and disordered eating, adoption, abortion, suicide, and infidelity, infertility.
“Family is what you make, not what you are born into”
October 17, 2025
2.75 stars
January 6, 2025
From Susan Walter, best-selling author, comes a new book, the acclaimed Letters from Strangers, a heart-rendering, twisting family drama, that kept me at the edge of my seat.
The knockout combination of compelling sympathetic characters, decades of secrets and lies, had me turning pages through the night, nervously waiting for the unsuspected truth to appear.
Get comfortable—you won’t move for hours.
December 25, 2024
Jane’s father dies, leaving behind a web of secrets. Sixteen-year-old Adam grapples with questions of identity and belonging. As their worlds collide, they must confront the true meaning of family in a poignant and surprising mystery. Letters from Strangers is a captivating exploration of the ties that bind us, the secrets that divide us, and the courage it takes to embrace our true selves.
December 9, 2025
This is a Women's Fiction/Suspense. I found the beginning very hard to figure out what was going on, and I also found it hard to keep up with all the characters. I got totally into the story by the part two and I figured out the characters. This book is a crazy emotional ride, and I really enjoyed reading it. I loved how this book ends. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
May 22, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! This is my 2nd book by the author this year. It's a completely different genre than what I read earlier, which solidifies that she is a phenomenal writer and I will read anything she writes!🩷
Jane recently lost her father, he was far from perfect but she loved him dearly. While sorting through his belongings, she discovers letters hinting at a secret relationship with another woman, possibly resulting in an unknown half-sibling. Jane is determined to investigate and connect with her potential sibling if one exists.
Adam, a high school student aware of his adoption, feels a sense of incompleteness, turning to food for comfort and engaging in self-destructive behaviors. He yearns to understand his origins. His adoptive parents provided him with letters from his birth mother; will these letters provide the answers he seeks?
Both Jane and Adam are looking for answers that the letters do not provide. Will they be able to find out the truth?
Told in multiple POVs and dual timelines, this was an incredible read! It was captivating, thought-provoking, emotional, and immersive! It was a character-driven family drama that dealt with issues of eating disorders, infertility, and grief. Between the drama and all the secrets I was completely invested. I loved the way Jane and Adam eventually connected and my heart went out to them both. I absolutely adored the ending and could not have asked for a better one! This book was amazing and I HIGHLY recommend it!
Jane recently lost her father, he was far from perfect but she loved him dearly. While sorting through his belongings, she discovers letters hinting at a secret relationship with another woman, possibly resulting in an unknown half-sibling. Jane is determined to investigate and connect with her potential sibling if one exists.
Adam, a high school student aware of his adoption, feels a sense of incompleteness, turning to food for comfort and engaging in self-destructive behaviors. He yearns to understand his origins. His adoptive parents provided him with letters from his birth mother; will these letters provide the answers he seeks?
Both Jane and Adam are looking for answers that the letters do not provide. Will they be able to find out the truth?
Told in multiple POVs and dual timelines, this was an incredible read! It was captivating, thought-provoking, emotional, and immersive! It was a character-driven family drama that dealt with issues of eating disorders, infertility, and grief. Between the drama and all the secrets I was completely invested. I loved the way Jane and Adam eventually connected and my heart went out to them both. I absolutely adored the ending and could not have asked for a better one! This book was amazing and I HIGHLY recommend it!
May 26, 2025
I had very high expectations going into this book, and I'm not so sure why I put so much pressure on it, but Susan Walter met and surpassed my expectations.
This was an emotional expertly crafted story. The writing was superb, the character development top notch.
I absolutely loved the multi POVs and multi timelines.
Also as a Gen Xer who suffered from an eating disorder, I felt it relatable but also appreciated that it wasn't an overly emotional journey when matters of body dysmorphia were taking center stage.
There were many memorable quotes in this book, these 2 stuck out.
"You can't succeed if you're chasing someone else's goal."
"The diet industry can't sell you a remedy if they don't sell you a problem first."
This was an emotional expertly crafted story. The writing was superb, the character development top notch.
I absolutely loved the multi POVs and multi timelines.
Also as a Gen Xer who suffered from an eating disorder, I felt it relatable but also appreciated that it wasn't an overly emotional journey when matters of body dysmorphia were taking center stage.
There were many memorable quotes in this book, these 2 stuck out.
"You can't succeed if you're chasing someone else's goal."
"The diet industry can't sell you a remedy if they don't sell you a problem first."
May 23, 2025
This incredible, moving, and emotional books is just unputdownable! The writing you from page one and never lets go until you fly through the entire book! While this isn’t Walter’s normal genre she writes, it was amazing and honestly one of my favorite books by her. If Walter’s writes it, I’m going to devour it!
Make sure you add this beautiful book to your TBR!
*****Thank you Susan Walter’s for my beautiful copy! All thought are my own and honest/unbiased.
Make sure you add this beautiful book to your TBR!
*****Thank you Susan Walter’s for my beautiful copy! All thought are my own and honest/unbiased.
May 31, 2025
The story of two strangers searching for the truth about their families, Letters From Strangers is a beautifully written book that deals with grief, family secrets, eating disorders, infidelity and many other topics.
Vivid real characters, the story is told from multiple characters viewpoints and is very cleverly crafted to bring all the pieces together in what is a satisfying and nearly but not quite(thankfully) twee ending.
I really loved this book. My reading diet is usually full of thrillers and horrors so this was a nice change of pace for me and reminded me that a story well told about the human condition is as thrilling and scary as any thriller or horror.
Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
Vivid real characters, the story is told from multiple characters viewpoints and is very cleverly crafted to bring all the pieces together in what is a satisfying and nearly but not quite(thankfully) twee ending.
I really loved this book. My reading diet is usually full of thrillers and horrors so this was a nice change of pace for me and reminded me that a story well told about the human condition is as thrilling and scary as any thriller or horror.
Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
February 12, 2026
3.5⭐️ rounded up to a 4! this was just a wholesome read, it felt like a hallmark movie (if it wasn’t christmas) in a book. there’s definitely some heavier topics like grief, EDs, loss of a parent, etc to look at before you read but overall i liked the development of each character and thought everything came together nicely at the end. would recommend if you want a heartwarming read!
May 25, 2025
Compelling, engaging, and heartfelt!
Letters from Strangers is an immersive, moving tale that takes you into the lives of two main characters. Jane, a young woman who, while grappling to come to grips with the sudden death of her father, has her world turned upside down when she stumbles across a bunch of letters that shatter her illusion of him, and Adam, a teenage boy who is stuck in a downward mental spiral due to his conflicting feelings about familial expectations, his emerging sexuality, and the facts surrounding his adoption.
The prose is sensitive and sincere. The characters are vulnerable, troubled, and consumed. And the plot is a captivating tale of life, loss, family, grief, friendship, self-discovery, revelations, strained relationships, and forgiveness.
Overall, Letters from Strangers is a hopeful, tender, heart-tugging tale by Walter that reminds us that families are complicated and messy, the choices we make often have far-reaching consequences, and secrets often find their way to the surface no matter how well they’re hidden.
Letters from Strangers is an immersive, moving tale that takes you into the lives of two main characters. Jane, a young woman who, while grappling to come to grips with the sudden death of her father, has her world turned upside down when she stumbles across a bunch of letters that shatter her illusion of him, and Adam, a teenage boy who is stuck in a downward mental spiral due to his conflicting feelings about familial expectations, his emerging sexuality, and the facts surrounding his adoption.
The prose is sensitive and sincere. The characters are vulnerable, troubled, and consumed. And the plot is a captivating tale of life, loss, family, grief, friendship, self-discovery, revelations, strained relationships, and forgiveness.
Overall, Letters from Strangers is a hopeful, tender, heart-tugging tale by Walter that reminds us that families are complicated and messy, the choices we make often have far-reaching consequences, and secrets often find their way to the surface no matter how well they’re hidden.
May 28, 2025
Author Gift: Letters From Strangers
Pub date: 5/27/25
The plot is a character driven, fast paced mystery. I can say without hesitation, this novel is a five star read. I devoured this book in two sittings. No doubt, it will pull you under and tangle with your emotions. A story that delves into the complexities of family, identity and the human spirit that endures.
Walter skillfully and tastefully intertwines the lives of two distinct families, creating a narrative that is beautiful and deeply resonant.
Jane and her husband are struggling with the looming pressure of infertility. Additionally, her world is further upended with her father's passing. She uncovers a stack of letters addressed to him revealing a years-long affair. Showing we all have our crosses to bear. Jane, included.
Then there's Adam, a high school kid wrestling with the profound impact of abandonment. As an adopted child, he struggles with the belief that people will always leave, regardless of innocence. Adam's story is courageous and vulnerable as he navigates coming to terms with his sexual identity and hoping for acceptance. He is also battling an eating disorder, and desperately wants to return to the football field.
He’s got loving parents and a coach who are ready to help him succeed.
Jane and Adam's experiences are powerfully shown, bringing to mind a strong sense of empathy and recognition. I felt their struggles, remembered those challenging times, and reconnected with those very real feelings.
I highly recommend this book if you appreciate generational family dramas. Its character development and emotionally charged plot make it an exceptional choice for a book club discussion.
Special thanks to Susan Walter for this wonderful gift!
#fivestarreview #bookreview #bookish #reading #arcreader #bookmail #bookstagram #mustreadbooks #fiction #letterstostrangers #susanwalter
Pub date: 5/27/25
The plot is a character driven, fast paced mystery. I can say without hesitation, this novel is a five star read. I devoured this book in two sittings. No doubt, it will pull you under and tangle with your emotions. A story that delves into the complexities of family, identity and the human spirit that endures.
Walter skillfully and tastefully intertwines the lives of two distinct families, creating a narrative that is beautiful and deeply resonant.
Jane and her husband are struggling with the looming pressure of infertility. Additionally, her world is further upended with her father's passing. She uncovers a stack of letters addressed to him revealing a years-long affair. Showing we all have our crosses to bear. Jane, included.
Then there's Adam, a high school kid wrestling with the profound impact of abandonment. As an adopted child, he struggles with the belief that people will always leave, regardless of innocence. Adam's story is courageous and vulnerable as he navigates coming to terms with his sexual identity and hoping for acceptance. He is also battling an eating disorder, and desperately wants to return to the football field.
He’s got loving parents and a coach who are ready to help him succeed.
Jane and Adam's experiences are powerfully shown, bringing to mind a strong sense of empathy and recognition. I felt their struggles, remembered those challenging times, and reconnected with those very real feelings.
I highly recommend this book if you appreciate generational family dramas. Its character development and emotionally charged plot make it an exceptional choice for a book club discussion.
Special thanks to Susan Walter for this wonderful gift!
#fivestarreview #bookreview #bookish #reading #arcreader #bookmail #bookstagram #mustreadbooks #fiction #letterstostrangers #susanwalter
May 29, 2025
This book has two main components: secrets and Families. The families are interconnected (to a point), and not coincidentally, so are the secrets.
This is a hard book to review without spoilers. There are two sets of letters from the past that set up the road to discovery of the secrets. Intriguing?
Family plays a big part in the story. There are several prominent themes: infidelity, teen pregnancy, adoption, body image, homosexuality, infertility. Some of these are likely to be triggers for some.
The author writes with sensitivity regarding the above themes. And, while the story is convoluted at times, it is cohesively presented.
The characters are realistic and well presented. There is honest emotion, so it’s easy to get drawn in. They exhibit qualities that I am well familiar with: doubt, regret, insecurities, hope, and acceptance.
I appreciated the Author's Note at the end. Like many writers, she allowed personal aspects of her life to show up in the story. I think that this validates the plot to the reader.
This was an enjoyable, though emotional, story which I think can resonate with many readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
This is a hard book to review without spoilers. There are two sets of letters from the past that set up the road to discovery of the secrets. Intriguing?
Family plays a big part in the story. There are several prominent themes: infidelity, teen pregnancy, adoption, body image, homosexuality, infertility. Some of these are likely to be triggers for some.
The author writes with sensitivity regarding the above themes. And, while the story is convoluted at times, it is cohesively presented.
The characters are realistic and well presented. There is honest emotion, so it’s easy to get drawn in. They exhibit qualities that I am well familiar with: doubt, regret, insecurities, hope, and acceptance.
I appreciated the Author's Note at the end. Like many writers, she allowed personal aspects of her life to show up in the story. I think that this validates the plot to the reader.
This was an enjoyable, though emotional, story which I think can resonate with many readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
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