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Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa
Sulje menneisyyden ovet ja anna sydämesi avautua tulevalle
Milly Johnsonin Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa on läikähtelevän lämminhenkinen tarina kolmesta toisistaan etääntyneestä sisaruksesta, jotka äidin kuolema tuo yhteen.
Sisaret Jolene, Marsha ja Annis ovat kokoontuneet lapsuudenkotiinsa Fox Houseen äitinsä kuoleman jälkeen. Jolene, vanhin siskoista, on menestynyt kirjailija, joka kirjoittaa rakkaustarinoita mutta sinnittelee itse onnettomassa avioliitossa. Marsha, laiminlyöty keskimmäinen lapsi, yrittää työnteolla paikkailla särkynyttä sydäntään. Nuorin sisaruksista, Annis, on kapinallinen, joka lähti kotoa kuusitoistavuotiaana eikä koskaan palannut takaisin.
Milly Johnsonin Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa on tarina paljastuneista totuuksista ja säilytetyistä salaisuuksista. Se on koskettava kertomus siitä, kuinka etääntyneet sisarukset löytävätkin toisistaan tukea, rohkeutta ja rakkautta, ja se lämmittää mieltä kuin kevätkukkien loisto pitkän talven jälkeen.
Milly Johnson on palkittu englantilainen kirjailija. Hän on julkaissut jo 20 romaania, ja hänen teoksiaan on myyty maailmanlaajuisesti yli kaksi miljoonaa kappaletta. Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa on kuudes Johnsonilta suomennettu romaani.
Milly Johnsonin Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa on läikähtelevän lämminhenkinen tarina kolmesta toisistaan etääntyneestä sisaruksesta, jotka äidin kuolema tuo yhteen.
Sisaret Jolene, Marsha ja Annis ovat kokoontuneet lapsuudenkotiinsa Fox Houseen äitinsä kuoleman jälkeen. Jolene, vanhin siskoista, on menestynyt kirjailija, joka kirjoittaa rakkaustarinoita mutta sinnittelee itse onnettomassa avioliitossa. Marsha, laiminlyöty keskimmäinen lapsi, yrittää työnteolla paikkailla särkynyttä sydäntään. Nuorin sisaruksista, Annis, on kapinallinen, joka lähti kotoa kuusitoistavuotiaana eikä koskaan palannut takaisin.
Milly Johnsonin Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa on tarina paljastuneista totuuksista ja säilytetyistä salaisuuksista. Se on koskettava kertomus siitä, kuinka etääntyneet sisarukset löytävätkin toisistaan tukea, rohkeutta ja rakkautta, ja se lämmittää mieltä kuin kevätkukkien loisto pitkän talven jälkeen.
Milly Johnson on palkittu englantilainen kirjailija. Hän on julkaissut jo 20 romaania, ja hänen teoksiaan on myyty maailmanlaajuisesti yli kaksi miljoonaa kappaletta. Yhdessä pitkästä aikaa on kuudes Johnsonilta suomennettu romaani.
384 pages, ebook
Published March 7, 2025
206 people are currently reading
956 people want to read
About the author
Milly Johnson
52 books2,137 followersMilly Johnson was born in Barnsley, raised in Barnsley and still lives in Barnsley. She writes about strong women, often having a renaissance, all ages and has just released her 22nd novel Same Time Next Week. Do check out her website for up to date news and appearance dates.
As well as a novelist she is a professional joke writer, performance poet, newspaper and magazine columnist and also after dinner/motivational speaker.
She is on insta as @themillyjohnson, facebook as @millyjohnsonauthor, Twitter as @millyjohnson and a ridiculous presence on TikTok @millyjohnsonauthor. Do give her a follow - even if it's just out of sympathy!
As well as a novelist she is a professional joke writer, performance poet, newspaper and magazine columnist and also after dinner/motivational speaker.
She is on insta as @themillyjohnson, facebook as @millyjohnsonauthor, Twitter as @millyjohnson and a ridiculous presence on TikTok @millyjohnsonauthor. Do give her a follow - even if it's just out of sympathy!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 249 reviews
October 8, 2022
Together, Again is Milly Johnson’s 20th novel – a fantastic achievement in itself and this is a truly lovely book to celebrate that milestone. I was delighted to have the opportunity to read a copy via Netgalley.
The Vamplews were not a particularly happy family. Eleanor, whose death is at the heart of this story and who occasionally appears with her own voice, was a cold, distant mother – she didn’t seem a particularly pleasant person at all really and certainly didn’t shower her three children with much love or attention. With seven years between each of the sisters, Jolene (…yes that Dolly Parton song – #earworm 🎶), Marsha and Annis, the youngest, they regarded themselves as only children, despite being siblings. It takes their mother’s death to bring them together in one place – the family home, the rather imposing and grand Fox House, and to begin to work through the years of hurt and finally get to know each other whilst sorting out their mother’s affairs.
Add in to the story, a background of lies and a rather sad neighbour with her own secrets and domestic problems and you have a wonderfully touching and poignant read about relationships – both family and marital, run through with Milly’s typical wit and humour. I was pulled into the story from the very first page and that letter….. and although this isn’t in any way a mystery tale, there is a puzzle to the story which when fully revealed adds a shocking truth. I suppose I had an idea as to part of the background, but I hadn’t guessed the full extent.
There were so many characters here that I took to my heart and that certainly includes the three sisters. Romance novelist Jolene gives her characters all the right advice however seems unable to follow this in her own life; whilst Marsha had never recovered from having her heart broken despite building a successful business. However my favourite was Annis. The youngest sister was also the wisest, her hard life having given her a sense of empathy and wisdom that belied her years. There are some wonderful supporting characters too and all play their part in this rather special story, with its shades of light and dark.
I absolutely loved Together, Again and felt quite sad when I had to say goodbye to them all at the end. I’ve never read a book by Milly that I haven’t enjoyed but I think this is one of her best.
The Vamplews were not a particularly happy family. Eleanor, whose death is at the heart of this story and who occasionally appears with her own voice, was a cold, distant mother – she didn’t seem a particularly pleasant person at all really and certainly didn’t shower her three children with much love or attention. With seven years between each of the sisters, Jolene (…yes that Dolly Parton song – #earworm 🎶), Marsha and Annis, the youngest, they regarded themselves as only children, despite being siblings. It takes their mother’s death to bring them together in one place – the family home, the rather imposing and grand Fox House, and to begin to work through the years of hurt and finally get to know each other whilst sorting out their mother’s affairs.
Add in to the story, a background of lies and a rather sad neighbour with her own secrets and domestic problems and you have a wonderfully touching and poignant read about relationships – both family and marital, run through with Milly’s typical wit and humour. I was pulled into the story from the very first page and that letter….. and although this isn’t in any way a mystery tale, there is a puzzle to the story which when fully revealed adds a shocking truth. I suppose I had an idea as to part of the background, but I hadn’t guessed the full extent.
There were so many characters here that I took to my heart and that certainly includes the three sisters. Romance novelist Jolene gives her characters all the right advice however seems unable to follow this in her own life; whilst Marsha had never recovered from having her heart broken despite building a successful business. However my favourite was Annis. The youngest sister was also the wisest, her hard life having given her a sense of empathy and wisdom that belied her years. There are some wonderful supporting characters too and all play their part in this rather special story, with its shades of light and dark.
I absolutely loved Together, Again and felt quite sad when I had to say goodbye to them all at the end. I’ve never read a book by Milly that I haven’t enjoyed but I think this is one of her best.
September 26, 2022
Once I started this book, I was hooked and I could not put it down. I read this novel in 2 great big delicious chunks. This book is definitely on the darker side of what we come to expect from this author but with the darkness comes the light of love found in family and the love found in unexpected or forgotten ties.
I loved getting to meet these three sisters. They come from this big house in a village but they are by no means the March sisters. Because of the fact that they were born seven years apart, they were basically each raised as only children and so their bond is essentially non-existent at the start of the book. The beauty of this novel is the fact that we get to go on this journey with them of rediscovering their family, rediscovering a bond that was incredibly tenuous to begin with and therefore rediscovering themselves in the process.
The house itself feels like a side character in this book too and I think that the house is essential to what happens between these three women and also their memories of their mother Eleanor, who we do get to hear some opinions from via a letter being drip-fed to us throughout the book. The house is cold and unforgiving, it holds so many memories within but memories that are unique to each woman and those memories start to unfold as new ties and new warmth are made.
I really like the fact that each of these women are self-sufficient. They don’t need to be there for a place to stay, the thing that unites them is grief but they each have their own lives to lead. These are strong women who have made their own way and their won fortunes and at no point was I worried about their integrity because of that. I was worried about these women though and I think that sympathy for them definitely powered me to read more and carry on turning the pages in the hope that they would see the light.
In true Milly Johnson style we have some particularly shitty male characters we have to deal with as well (of course) and the men in this book, on the whole are real pieces of work. Each woman has a man in their past or present that is not good news and so their new bonds definitely help them to better deal with these men but Joelene’s home situation definitely does come with some care-warnings so check the blurb before you read this one.
I loved getting to meet and getting to know Jolene, Marsha and Annis. I think these characters and this book will stay with me for a long time. I would love love love to read more from them and I think you will too!
I loved getting to meet these three sisters. They come from this big house in a village but they are by no means the March sisters. Because of the fact that they were born seven years apart, they were basically each raised as only children and so their bond is essentially non-existent at the start of the book. The beauty of this novel is the fact that we get to go on this journey with them of rediscovering their family, rediscovering a bond that was incredibly tenuous to begin with and therefore rediscovering themselves in the process.
The house itself feels like a side character in this book too and I think that the house is essential to what happens between these three women and also their memories of their mother Eleanor, who we do get to hear some opinions from via a letter being drip-fed to us throughout the book. The house is cold and unforgiving, it holds so many memories within but memories that are unique to each woman and those memories start to unfold as new ties and new warmth are made.
I really like the fact that each of these women are self-sufficient. They don’t need to be there for a place to stay, the thing that unites them is grief but they each have their own lives to lead. These are strong women who have made their own way and their won fortunes and at no point was I worried about their integrity because of that. I was worried about these women though and I think that sympathy for them definitely powered me to read more and carry on turning the pages in the hope that they would see the light.
In true Milly Johnson style we have some particularly shitty male characters we have to deal with as well (of course) and the men in this book, on the whole are real pieces of work. Each woman has a man in their past or present that is not good news and so their new bonds definitely help them to better deal with these men but Joelene’s home situation definitely does come with some care-warnings so check the blurb before you read this one.
I loved getting to meet and getting to know Jolene, Marsha and Annis. I think these characters and this book will stay with me for a long time. I would love love love to read more from them and I think you will too!
June 10, 2024
Second read:. Sigh... So, so good. I loved it even more this time. Can't wait for the audiobook.
First read: This. Book. Was. Awesome! Milly Johnson's writing gets better and better with each book she writes. I'm also really thankful about The Book Depository, a UK-based company that ships books to the US for free!
As many others have said, this book was, in some ways, darker than Johnson's previous stories but definitely some themes that have been included in prior books. As usual, she's handled them subtly and gracefully so that even the darkest subject doesn't make the reader want to curl up in a fetal position or vomit. That said, her clever wit was still present with passages that made me chuckle. If I was reading an ebook instead of reading this in hardcover form, I would have hightlighted and shared some of these gems on Goodreads and I will once Milly's book is available in the US (Why, why does it take so long????).
I loved the developing relationships between the three sisters and how empowered they became as the story went on. I loved the love stories. I loved the "baddies". I loved, LOVED the satisfying and heartwarming ending. I loved Johnson's signature way of relating certain situations to classic English literature.
And now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go back to the beginning and read this lovely, lovely book again!
Some profanity.
First read: This. Book. Was. Awesome! Milly Johnson's writing gets better and better with each book she writes. I'm also really thankful about The Book Depository, a UK-based company that ships books to the US for free!
As many others have said, this book was, in some ways, darker than Johnson's previous stories but definitely some themes that have been included in prior books. As usual, she's handled them subtly and gracefully so that even the darkest subject doesn't make the reader want to curl up in a fetal position or vomit. That said, her clever wit was still present with passages that made me chuckle. If I was reading an ebook instead of reading this in hardcover form, I would have hightlighted and shared some of these gems on Goodreads and I will once Milly's book is available in the US (Why, why does it take so long????).
I loved the developing relationships between the three sisters and how empowered they became as the story went on. I loved the love stories. I loved the "baddies". I loved, LOVED the satisfying and heartwarming ending. I loved Johnson's signature way of relating certain situations to classic English literature.
And now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go back to the beginning and read this lovely, lovely book again!
Some profanity.
August 31, 2022
Eleanor has died suddenly, discovered in her bed by long-time friend and neighbour Sally. Eleanor’s three daughters have returned to Fox House, their childhood home to deal with her funeral and sell the home and contents.
Jolene, Marsha and Annis were born seven years apart and never bonded as sisters usually do. They know little about each other, and the two older women have not seen Annis since she left home suddenly over fifteen years ago, aged just sixteen.
Jolene writes romantic novels and is married to businessman Warren. Marsha’s heart was broken as a teen and is now a successful business owner. Annis has drifted through life, working in seedy bars and never settling. All three sisters are shocked to discover that Eleanor has left everything to Annis, despite showing nothing but scorn and hate for her for all of her life.
As the sisters spend time in their old home, they begin to learn about each other. Long held secrets are uncovered and the pain that their uncaring and cold mother caused to them, along with the loss of a father who two of them adored feels so fresh and raw.
Milly Johnson’s twentieth novel is another triumph from this wonderful author. She deals with the darkest of issues, including parental abuse and coercive behaviour with her trademark warmth, wisdom and gritty wit. Together, Again is a story of vulnerability and extreme strength and the unbreakable bond of sisterly love.
Jolene, Marsha and Annis were born seven years apart and never bonded as sisters usually do. They know little about each other, and the two older women have not seen Annis since she left home suddenly over fifteen years ago, aged just sixteen.
Jolene writes romantic novels and is married to businessman Warren. Marsha’s heart was broken as a teen and is now a successful business owner. Annis has drifted through life, working in seedy bars and never settling. All three sisters are shocked to discover that Eleanor has left everything to Annis, despite showing nothing but scorn and hate for her for all of her life.
As the sisters spend time in their old home, they begin to learn about each other. Long held secrets are uncovered and the pain that their uncaring and cold mother caused to them, along with the loss of a father who two of them adored feels so fresh and raw.
Milly Johnson’s twentieth novel is another triumph from this wonderful author. She deals with the darkest of issues, including parental abuse and coercive behaviour with her trademark warmth, wisdom and gritty wit. Together, Again is a story of vulnerability and extreme strength and the unbreakable bond of sisterly love.
September 25, 2022
Where do I begin? And how do I do this masterpiece justice. I feel so privileged to have read a book that’s left it so hard to speak about, in the best way obviously. I can’t claim to have devoured all of Milly’s books as I haven’t but so far everyone I have read I’ve enjoyed. When Together Again was mentioned I knew I had to read it almost instantly, and when Catriona mentioned buddy reading it that was also an absolute must.
Together Again has the classic Milly trademark wit and humour although with this one we also get a different feel. It was compelling and intoxicating from the off. Each chapter has you wanting more. If life hadn’t got in the way this could have been a single sitting read.
Together Again reunites sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis and we get snippets of the then and now of the family. Like most families it’s not all plain sailing but there are so many unspoken words just within the sisters alone. I instantly loved all of them and I liked hearing from each of them. Three very different women whose lives could have been different if they had communicated earlier in life. As I was getting to know them I found myself frustrated with them as I just wanted them to talk. There were a number of things that in retrospect you could and couldn’t see coming and that just added to the suspense and the intrigue, meaning those pages turned faster and faster.
Eleanor Vamplew is an interesting woman in some ways I thought of her like Hyacinth Bucket. We only get a snippet of her life via letters and through her daughters. An interesting woman who could have shared more with her children.
A tale of love, loss and united loneliness. Milly has created a story with characters you wholeheartedly care for. In each of the sisters there’s a little of us all in how they are and seeing them get to know each other and ultimately learn from each other was heartwarming.
I don’t think I’ll ever forget reading this novel and I would love Milly to take us back to the Vamplew sisters someday. There’s so much I cannot say about this story but I will say Milly Johnson has created a masterpiece with a few hard hitting messages at the centre of this tale.
Together Again has the classic Milly trademark wit and humour although with this one we also get a different feel. It was compelling and intoxicating from the off. Each chapter has you wanting more. If life hadn’t got in the way this could have been a single sitting read.
Together Again reunites sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis and we get snippets of the then and now of the family. Like most families it’s not all plain sailing but there are so many unspoken words just within the sisters alone. I instantly loved all of them and I liked hearing from each of them. Three very different women whose lives could have been different if they had communicated earlier in life. As I was getting to know them I found myself frustrated with them as I just wanted them to talk. There were a number of things that in retrospect you could and couldn’t see coming and that just added to the suspense and the intrigue, meaning those pages turned faster and faster.
Eleanor Vamplew is an interesting woman in some ways I thought of her like Hyacinth Bucket. We only get a snippet of her life via letters and through her daughters. An interesting woman who could have shared more with her children.
A tale of love, loss and united loneliness. Milly has created a story with characters you wholeheartedly care for. In each of the sisters there’s a little of us all in how they are and seeing them get to know each other and ultimately learn from each other was heartwarming.
I don’t think I’ll ever forget reading this novel and I would love Milly to take us back to the Vamplew sisters someday. There’s so much I cannot say about this story but I will say Milly Johnson has created a masterpiece with a few hard hitting messages at the centre of this tale.
October 19, 2022
It took me a long time to chew through this book - because, well, I wasn't desperate to get back to it. With some of the previous books by this author I couldn't put them down, I couldn't wait to keep them in my hands again and keep reading. This time, sadly, it wasn't like this.
It was a luke - warm story that didn't keep my attention. Perhaps there was too much negativity for me, perhaps it were the characters that I didn't care about as much as I would like, no idea. Those were the male characters, actually, that felt warm, positive, who wanted to live and experience things.
The huge secret hanging over one of the characters were explained in the last chapter and for me it was absolutely not twisty, surprising, it didn't make me go ooooh, wooow, it actually didn't evoke any emotions in me, but probably it's because of the facts that I couldn't warm to the characters, that I couldn't befriend them as much as I'd like.
Altogether, it was actually a sad stroy, filled with secrets, lies, unloving parents, domestic problems, abuse - maybe it was simply too much, maybe it was not the right read for those times. I just had a feeling it's missing on warmth and heart and the slow pace also didn't help.
It was a luke - warm story that didn't keep my attention. Perhaps there was too much negativity for me, perhaps it were the characters that I didn't care about as much as I would like, no idea. Those were the male characters, actually, that felt warm, positive, who wanted to live and experience things.
The huge secret hanging over one of the characters were explained in the last chapter and for me it was absolutely not twisty, surprising, it didn't make me go ooooh, wooow, it actually didn't evoke any emotions in me, but probably it's because of the facts that I couldn't warm to the characters, that I couldn't befriend them as much as I'd like.
Altogether, it was actually a sad stroy, filled with secrets, lies, unloving parents, domestic problems, abuse - maybe it was simply too much, maybe it was not the right read for those times. I just had a feeling it's missing on warmth and heart and the slow pace also didn't help.
June 10, 2024
Really loved this book, (I do like all of Molly’s books) I often think no way can Milly create a better read than the last one - but she does!
There’s lots of depth in the characters in the book which really add to the story. Lots of emotions along the way, and I had to make myself put the book down.
Looking forward to the next book.
There’s lots of depth in the characters in the book which really add to the story. Lots of emotions along the way, and I had to make myself put the book down.
Looking forward to the next book.
September 18, 2022
Another stunningly beautiful book by Milly Johnson. Milly just keeps hitting them out the park and each book just keeps getting better. This book is no exception. It will make you laugh and make you cry and make you feel utterly uplifted and like you have had a great big hug in book form
September 4, 2022
This is a superb book about three estranged sisters each born 7 years apart to parents who were more absorbed in themselves and each other leaving none of their daughters with many happy childhood memories. The death of their mother, 8 years after their father, causes them to reunite for the first time in many years as Annis, the youngest, has been missing since she ran away aged 16. To further add to the situation their mother has very unexpectedly left virtually all her estate to Annis which was as big a shock to her as anyone as she had expected to have been cut out from the will.
The three sisters are each so different - Jolene, the eldest, is a successful author of twenty books (not unlike Milly Johnson herself) but is struggling in her marriage; Marsha, the middle daughter, is a very successful business women who was driven to prove to her parents how well she could do yet never gained any acknowledgement from them and Annis has had some difficult times since leaving home yet they’ve shaped her into the wisest of the sisters.
This is a much deeper read than Milly’s previous books but it’s still unmistakably Milly with the Yorkshire warmth you’d expect but a whole lot more. The dynamics between the sisters was well written and it was interesting to see how spending time together in their old family ‘home’ changed them as individuals and sisters. Jolene was a solid character, her struggles very well conveyed and her difficulty in moving forward empathetically told. Marsha has done incredibly in her work life but it’s interesting to see just why she struggled so much in her private life which was doubtless linked to her loveless upbringing and lack of self worth. Annis was an incredible character, my favourite of the sisters by far, she’s had a challenging life but it’s given her wisdom beyond her years which she used well to support her sisters and she acted incredibly selflessly towards them. Throw in a neighbour who is struggling with the reaction their mothers letter to Annis caused in her when curiosity got the better of her whilst it was in her safekeeping and a grieving dog owner come Monkees tribute act member and you have a wonderful blend of characters amongst a very powerful storyline.
The three sisters are each so different - Jolene, the eldest, is a successful author of twenty books (not unlike Milly Johnson herself) but is struggling in her marriage; Marsha, the middle daughter, is a very successful business women who was driven to prove to her parents how well she could do yet never gained any acknowledgement from them and Annis has had some difficult times since leaving home yet they’ve shaped her into the wisest of the sisters.
This is a much deeper read than Milly’s previous books but it’s still unmistakably Milly with the Yorkshire warmth you’d expect but a whole lot more. The dynamics between the sisters was well written and it was interesting to see how spending time together in their old family ‘home’ changed them as individuals and sisters. Jolene was a solid character, her struggles very well conveyed and her difficulty in moving forward empathetically told. Marsha has done incredibly in her work life but it’s interesting to see just why she struggled so much in her private life which was doubtless linked to her loveless upbringing and lack of self worth. Annis was an incredible character, my favourite of the sisters by far, she’s had a challenging life but it’s given her wisdom beyond her years which she used well to support her sisters and she acted incredibly selflessly towards them. Throw in a neighbour who is struggling with the reaction their mothers letter to Annis caused in her when curiosity got the better of her whilst it was in her safekeeping and a grieving dog owner come Monkees tribute act member and you have a wonderful blend of characters amongst a very powerful storyline.
September 5, 2022
This beautifully written book tells the story of three sisters coming back together and discovering themselves and each other having shed the presumptions they grew up with.
The emotions run high from start to finish between the sisters and the supporting cast of characters, each with their own stories to tell to help us get to the wonderful ending which was totally satisfying and left me with a smile as I finished the book even with the difficult subjects that are involved.
Having a difficult family myself I wasn't sure about reading this book but I've loved all the other Milly Johnson books so I dug in. The way it's written is very sensitive to the subjects it touches on and made for an interesting read where I wanted to see where the characters journeys would take them.
The emotions run high from start to finish between the sisters and the supporting cast of characters, each with their own stories to tell to help us get to the wonderful ending which was totally satisfying and left me with a smile as I finished the book even with the difficult subjects that are involved.
Having a difficult family myself I wasn't sure about reading this book but I've loved all the other Milly Johnson books so I dug in. The way it's written is very sensitive to the subjects it touches on and made for an interesting read where I wanted to see where the characters journeys would take them.
October 6, 2022
I know I am going to be in the minority here. But I'm so sad because I just wasn't the biggest fan of this book. I'm not really sure I can even put my finger on exactly why. But it just didn't feel like it had the warmth and heart that I am used to in Milly's books and for some reason I just didn't gel with it as I have done so deeply with the others. I'm sure everyone else will love it though
October 11, 2022
Just love a Milly Johnson book, this didn't dissapoint.
October 13, 2022
What a story, it had everything family, secrets, lies and a fabulous cast of characters especially sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis. A deliciously devious book with a satisfyingly good conclusion.
September 26, 2022
Amazing! I didn’t really expect anything less from a Milly Johnson book but this one really resonated with me and there were elements from all the sisters that I could identify with.
I enjoyed the slowly unfurling story, the jumps back in time to fill in some gaps and also leave us with more questions at times. Each sister had to stop and take stock of their lives and delve into their pasts and find ways of connecting. Their new friendship was touching and gave hope that it’s never too late to fix relationships from your past. I really liked Eric and Dez, how they saw the real person in Marsha and Annis and still liked what they saw, they cared enough to want to help and create new happier memories and to show them what true unconditional love was, these were some very touching scenes.
The whole twist at the end with Warren was very interesting, as the story unfolded I suspected that he may have been living a double life but how it played out was brilliant, the sisters rallied together and drew strength from each other to finally get him out of their lives.
A very moving and thought provoking read right from the start, and a lot of sensitive issues dealt with very well, clearly a lot of research went into it.
I enjoyed the slowly unfurling story, the jumps back in time to fill in some gaps and also leave us with more questions at times. Each sister had to stop and take stock of their lives and delve into their pasts and find ways of connecting. Their new friendship was touching and gave hope that it’s never too late to fix relationships from your past. I really liked Eric and Dez, how they saw the real person in Marsha and Annis and still liked what they saw, they cared enough to want to help and create new happier memories and to show them what true unconditional love was, these were some very touching scenes.
The whole twist at the end with Warren was very interesting, as the story unfolded I suspected that he may have been living a double life but how it played out was brilliant, the sisters rallied together and drew strength from each other to finally get him out of their lives.
A very moving and thought provoking read right from the start, and a lot of sensitive issues dealt with very well, clearly a lot of research went into it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2022
I absolutely devoured this book. I read it in less than 24 hours (luckily I had taken the day off!)
Another fantastic creation by Milly. She has a wonderful way of addressing emotional
Issues that don’t leaving you feeling bereft but instead you are wrapped up in a little jug of her world.
Thank you and I cannot wait for the next read.
Another fantastic creation by Milly. She has a wonderful way of addressing emotional
Issues that don’t leaving you feeling bereft but instead you are wrapped up in a little jug of her world.
Thank you and I cannot wait for the next read.
October 4, 2022
Oh Milly you have done it again, another fantastic book. I loved it, couldn't put it down
3 estranged sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis are reunited after the death of their mum and all decide to stay in their childhood home until after the funeral
As they get they get to know each other again past secrets come to light and they grow closer to each other
3 estranged sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis are reunited after the death of their mum and all decide to stay in their childhood home until after the funeral
As they get they get to know each other again past secrets come to light and they grow closer to each other
October 19, 2022
Spectacular - Milly is incapable of writing a bad book! I absolute devoured it and loved it. She is brilliant.
April 20, 2023
2.5 stars. This one did not work for me.
November 10, 2022
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/revie...
I’ve always loved Milly Johnson’s writing but Together, Again takes it to a whole new level (in my opinion!).
There is so much emotional depth in this story, tackling issues that change lives … and not just for one sister. All three siblings have made choices as a result of their experiences growing up in a home that is dysfunctional, that take away their power and leave them broken in some way.
All three have a narration that lets us in and get to know them better. Eleanor’s narration is through a letter. I’m not judging parents on the autistic spectrum or with different needs, but I have seen how parenting skills effect their children. It’s really hard to work with a parent who sees and experiences the world differently. And for this reason, I did feel compassion towards Eleanor. I didn’t see much love or care from her mother either …
As Jolene, Marsha and Annis pack up Fox House, their understanding of each other gets deeper. I loved their developing friendship. So strong together (loved the scene at the pub!). I also loved their healthy developing relationships with others. That opening up and trusting despite the fear was so special.
The quote below really struck me. It says so much about how problems/issues can impact on us doesn’t it!
"Time to unhook it from her heel and shrug it off for good".
The sisters aren’t the only ones to experience a change. Sally (Eleanor’s friend) is a key character. One incident had such an impact on her life. I cheered for her change of heart. And the changes she was starting to make in her life.
Not all secrets are revealed to everyone. And that’s how it should be. Totally understood the reasoning behind this. And loved that one of the sister’s could confide in someone who was a kind and caring soul.
So many emotions for me reading Together, Again. It’s not all doom and gloom though! As with all Milly Johnson’s stories, her characters find where they belong and we watch them go off on the start of their new paths.
Together, Again will draw you in and tangle you up before wrapping you in contentment and knowing that all is as it should be.
Highly recommended!
I’ve always loved Milly Johnson’s writing but Together, Again takes it to a whole new level (in my opinion!).
There is so much emotional depth in this story, tackling issues that change lives … and not just for one sister. All three siblings have made choices as a result of their experiences growing up in a home that is dysfunctional, that take away their power and leave them broken in some way.
All three have a narration that lets us in and get to know them better. Eleanor’s narration is through a letter. I’m not judging parents on the autistic spectrum or with different needs, but I have seen how parenting skills effect their children. It’s really hard to work with a parent who sees and experiences the world differently. And for this reason, I did feel compassion towards Eleanor. I didn’t see much love or care from her mother either …
As Jolene, Marsha and Annis pack up Fox House, their understanding of each other gets deeper. I loved their developing friendship. So strong together (loved the scene at the pub!). I also loved their healthy developing relationships with others. That opening up and trusting despite the fear was so special.
The quote below really struck me. It says so much about how problems/issues can impact on us doesn’t it!
"Time to unhook it from her heel and shrug it off for good".
The sisters aren’t the only ones to experience a change. Sally (Eleanor’s friend) is a key character. One incident had such an impact on her life. I cheered for her change of heart. And the changes she was starting to make in her life.
Not all secrets are revealed to everyone. And that’s how it should be. Totally understood the reasoning behind this. And loved that one of the sister’s could confide in someone who was a kind and caring soul.
So many emotions for me reading Together, Again. It’s not all doom and gloom though! As with all Milly Johnson’s stories, her characters find where they belong and we watch them go off on the start of their new paths.
Together, Again will draw you in and tangle you up before wrapping you in contentment and knowing that all is as it should be.
Highly recommended!
September 8, 2022
When Eleanor Vamplew passes away unexpectedly her daughters, Jolene and Marsha, are left to carry out her final wishes. In her will Eleanor has left almost everything to her third daughter Annis. The problem is that Annis walked out of the house at the age of sixteen and completely cut herself off from the family.
Completely unexpectedly Annis turns up and the sisters spend the next few weeks slowly getting to know each other. The three women were born seven years apart so never really bonded as siblings, added to this were emotionally distant parents. As the women get to know each other we discover that their personal lives are suffering as a result of their upbringing. By sharing and supporting each other they begin to put things right.
Fans of Milly Johnson will recognise the basic premise of the story; three women who are all facing dilemmas in their personal lives. Over time they each face up to what is causing their problems and by supporting one another they manage to move on in their lives. What fans won't be familiar with are the much darker themes at the heart of the story. I really don't want to go into the details of the darker themes as they will give too much of the story away.
Jolene is the eldest of the three sisters, the reliable one. Jolene is a successful novelist and has been married to Warren for ten years. There are problems within the marriage but Jolene keeps explaining them away rather than facing them head on. It is easy to see that Jolene is seeking the love and support she didn't get as a child, she is frightened that by challenging her husband she will lose him.
Marsha is the middle sister, born seven years after Jolene. Marsha has never felt as if she was good enough, this stems from not being the boy her parents had hoped for. A lack of love from her parents meant that Marsha looked for it elsewhere and fell in love with a priest. The unrequited love has hampered Marsha from forming meaningful relationships.
Annis is the youngest of the sisters, born seven years after Marsha. There was resentment and jealousy between the girls as their father lavished his affection on Annis. When Annis walked out of the house at sixteen everyone was surprised as she gave no reason for leaving.
As the sisters get to know each other they learn about how the lack of love from their parents impacted on their childhood and the decisions they made as adults. By understanding what each other went through and supporting each other they gain the strength to action change in their lives.
As you would expect their are a couple of knights in shining armour sprinkled through the story. Daz in particular adds a little bit of lightness to the story. Knights in shining armour is probably the wrong expression as they don't swoop in to save people, it's the sisters who save each other.
If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/
or follow me on Twitter
@Debbie_Hart_UK
Completely unexpectedly Annis turns up and the sisters spend the next few weeks slowly getting to know each other. The three women were born seven years apart so never really bonded as siblings, added to this were emotionally distant parents. As the women get to know each other we discover that their personal lives are suffering as a result of their upbringing. By sharing and supporting each other they begin to put things right.
Fans of Milly Johnson will recognise the basic premise of the story; three women who are all facing dilemmas in their personal lives. Over time they each face up to what is causing their problems and by supporting one another they manage to move on in their lives. What fans won't be familiar with are the much darker themes at the heart of the story. I really don't want to go into the details of the darker themes as they will give too much of the story away.
Jolene is the eldest of the three sisters, the reliable one. Jolene is a successful novelist and has been married to Warren for ten years. There are problems within the marriage but Jolene keeps explaining them away rather than facing them head on. It is easy to see that Jolene is seeking the love and support she didn't get as a child, she is frightened that by challenging her husband she will lose him.
Marsha is the middle sister, born seven years after Jolene. Marsha has never felt as if she was good enough, this stems from not being the boy her parents had hoped for. A lack of love from her parents meant that Marsha looked for it elsewhere and fell in love with a priest. The unrequited love has hampered Marsha from forming meaningful relationships.
Annis is the youngest of the sisters, born seven years after Marsha. There was resentment and jealousy between the girls as their father lavished his affection on Annis. When Annis walked out of the house at sixteen everyone was surprised as she gave no reason for leaving.
As the sisters get to know each other they learn about how the lack of love from their parents impacted on their childhood and the decisions they made as adults. By understanding what each other went through and supporting each other they gain the strength to action change in their lives.
As you would expect their are a couple of knights in shining armour sprinkled through the story. Daz in particular adds a little bit of lightness to the story. Knights in shining armour is probably the wrong expression as they don't swoop in to save people, it's the sisters who save each other.
If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/
or follow me on Twitter
@Debbie_Hart_UK
October 1, 2022
Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.
The Vamplew sisters have never been close and are suddenly reunited with the death of their mother. I was surprised by this book as it wasn't really in Milly's usual style but actually I didn't mind and I really enjoyed this! Wonderful read.
The Vamplew sisters have never been close and are suddenly reunited with the death of their mother. I was surprised by this book as it wasn't really in Milly's usual style but actually I didn't mind and I really enjoyed this! Wonderful read.
October 20, 2022
Milly’s 20th book is her darkest in terms of what all the main characters have been through in the past and are still trying to deal with many years later.
It shows the damage that can be done by people who are so wrapped up in themselves that they are incapable of showing unconditional love and putting others first and oblivious to the harm they are causing to those who love them.
Thankfully, this isn’t Jude the Obscure goes to Barnsley, so there is reconciliation, redemption, the reforging of bonds that are worth reforging and, above all, humour, hope and the promise of future happiness.
That’s what I love about all of Milly’s books; that there is light at the end of what can sometimes be very long and very dark tunnels and that happy endings are possible, as long as you deserve them. If you don’t, well Karma usually catches up in the end.
It shows the damage that can be done by people who are so wrapped up in themselves that they are incapable of showing unconditional love and putting others first and oblivious to the harm they are causing to those who love them.
Thankfully, this isn’t Jude the Obscure goes to Barnsley, so there is reconciliation, redemption, the reforging of bonds that are worth reforging and, above all, humour, hope and the promise of future happiness.
That’s what I love about all of Milly’s books; that there is light at the end of what can sometimes be very long and very dark tunnels and that happy endings are possible, as long as you deserve them. If you don’t, well Karma usually catches up in the end.
October 20, 2022
I absolutely LOVED this book! This author is fast becoming one of my favourite authors and I eagerly wait for one of her new books! This book is a heart-warming and emotional read featuring sisters, Jolene, Marsha and Annis. There are big age gaps between each of the sisters, and they have never been close. Annis left home many years before and hasn’t had anything to do with her family, but when their mother dies unexpectedly, they find themselves reunited.
This is a book which will capture you right from the very first page. We get to see how the sisters deal with their mother’s death and what is going on in their lives right now. The storyline is sad at times – I have cried so many times in this book! But throughout those sad times there are moments of happiness, love and even some light-heartedness! I loved Annis’s character and when she arrived home it was like a breath of fresh air to a sad and stressful situation. Her no nonsense and say it how it is attitude was refreshing and funny and she forged an immediate connection with her sisters despite having not seen them for years! Jolene and Marsha, for me, took a little longer to warm to but as the book moved on so did my liking to them. My favourite human character though was, without a doubt, Daz – although John Abruzzi the rabbit definitely wins it for the four-legged category! Daz was perfect! From the first meeting where my heart broke for him and I cried with him, to every other meeting after, he just got better and better! All the characters were amazing though, even the ones that I didn’t like still added to the storyline.
I’ve read a few books now by this author and have loved them all. This must be my favourite so far though and was completely hooked into the equal heartbreak and happiness of the Vamplew family. The storyline was powerful, and I loved how it wasn’t just a straightforward run through their lives. There were lots of twists and turns, family secrets and moments of revelation which surprised, shocked and touched me. This author is so, so clever with a fabulous flair for writing books which broach difficult subjects with such love and tenderness. Love, loved, LOVED it! What more can I say!!
This is a book which will capture you right from the very first page. We get to see how the sisters deal with their mother’s death and what is going on in their lives right now. The storyline is sad at times – I have cried so many times in this book! But throughout those sad times there are moments of happiness, love and even some light-heartedness! I loved Annis’s character and when she arrived home it was like a breath of fresh air to a sad and stressful situation. Her no nonsense and say it how it is attitude was refreshing and funny and she forged an immediate connection with her sisters despite having not seen them for years! Jolene and Marsha, for me, took a little longer to warm to but as the book moved on so did my liking to them. My favourite human character though was, without a doubt, Daz – although John Abruzzi the rabbit definitely wins it for the four-legged category! Daz was perfect! From the first meeting where my heart broke for him and I cried with him, to every other meeting after, he just got better and better! All the characters were amazing though, even the ones that I didn’t like still added to the storyline.
I’ve read a few books now by this author and have loved them all. This must be my favourite so far though and was completely hooked into the equal heartbreak and happiness of the Vamplew family. The storyline was powerful, and I loved how it wasn’t just a straightforward run through their lives. There were lots of twists and turns, family secrets and moments of revelation which surprised, shocked and touched me. This author is so, so clever with a fabulous flair for writing books which broach difficult subjects with such love and tenderness. Love, loved, LOVED it! What more can I say!!
September 16, 2022
There are so many emotions, secrets and family dramas in this book which is yet another amazing story by Milly Johnson. This is deeper than any of Milly's previous work with some serious and darker issues dealt with. Three sisters, all of whom were born 7 years apart and very different in personality and situation now meet up in the aftermath of their mother's death to clear out the family home where they all grew up and to set her final affairs in order. Various mysteries and secrets come to the fore, and these kept me glued to this book to find out just what had happened in the lives of each of the three women since they had last been together. It's hard to comment on their various experiences without giving too much away but suffice to say I loved the book and found the characters of the women endearing and interesting and thoroughly enjoyed delving into their past lives and hoping there would be solutions for the issues affecting their current ones. Despite the seriousness of some of the storyline of the book there was still a good supply of Milly's usual Yorkshire humour that made me giggle numerous times. I have read and loved every book that Milly has written, and this is yet another to add to my collection of favourite reads. Five well-earned glittering stars from me. My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 20, 2022
Can't praise this one enough. Gritty tackling so many important subjects bereavement, adult illiteracy, stalking, broken families. Like many of Milly's early books fewer characters who you grow to love on the journey to healing. No Christmas joy or fantasy in this one, I prefer a darker read. There's a bit of Milly humour woven in there to lighten the mood. Of course happy endings, new beginnings, the bad ones get dealt with Nod to one of my most influential teachers too who also taught Milly. Lots of messages about not judging and empowering women through adult education. Can't fault number 20.
November 12, 2022
Truly brilliant, as always, but something in this book reached out. Thank you xx
April 18, 2023
Not my favorite Milly Johnson, but it's okay.
March 3, 2023
The Blurb :
Sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis have convened at their beautiful family home, Fox House, following the death of their mother, the tricky Eleanor Vamplew. Born seven years apart, the women are more strangers than sisters.
Jolene, the eldest, is a successful romantic novelist who writes about beautiful relationships even though her own marriage to the handsome and charming Warren is complicated.
Marsha, the neglected middle child, has put all of her energy into her work, hoping money will plug the gap in her life left by the man who broke her young heart.
Annis is the renegade, who left home aged sixteen and never returned, not even for the death of their beloved father Julian. Until now.
So when the sisters discover that their mother has left everything to Annis in her will, it undermines everything they thought they knew. Can saying their final goodbyes to Eleanor bring them together again?
My Thoughts :
Always a huge fan of Milly Johnson, I was excited to start reading Together Again.
We meet the Vamplew sisters, Marsha, Jolene and Annis. There is a seven year age gap between them and not a lot of love lost. When their mother, Eleanor dies the girls re unite at Fox House to sort the funeral and the estate of their late mother.
The two elder sisters, Marsha and Jolene havent had a lot of contact in recent years except for the odd time here and there. And Annis ran away from home fifteen years ago and hadnt been heard from until now. The sisters have never been close and all seem to lead very different lives. The biggest shock they learn of is that Eleanor has left everything to Annis, despite her daughter not being around in years.
As the sisters are forced to spend time together in their old home, they start learn more about each other, and uncover some secrets. It seems that Eleanor was a cold hearted mother, who caused a lot of pain. Will this sisters survive and try to move on together or is it too late!?.
I really enjoyed reading about the lives of the three sisters and learning about each of them and their pasts and to where life has brought them now.
Milly Johnson, really makes solid characters and draws the reader into the thick of the story, although this is some of Milly’s darker work, She has a way of bringing characters to life and also adding a great supporting cast too. This is a story about family, heartbreak, love and coming - Together, Again.
Looking forward to the next read from Milly Johnson.
Sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis have convened at their beautiful family home, Fox House, following the death of their mother, the tricky Eleanor Vamplew. Born seven years apart, the women are more strangers than sisters.
Jolene, the eldest, is a successful romantic novelist who writes about beautiful relationships even though her own marriage to the handsome and charming Warren is complicated.
Marsha, the neglected middle child, has put all of her energy into her work, hoping money will plug the gap in her life left by the man who broke her young heart.
Annis is the renegade, who left home aged sixteen and never returned, not even for the death of their beloved father Julian. Until now.
So when the sisters discover that their mother has left everything to Annis in her will, it undermines everything they thought they knew. Can saying their final goodbyes to Eleanor bring them together again?
My Thoughts :
Always a huge fan of Milly Johnson, I was excited to start reading Together Again.
We meet the Vamplew sisters, Marsha, Jolene and Annis. There is a seven year age gap between them and not a lot of love lost. When their mother, Eleanor dies the girls re unite at Fox House to sort the funeral and the estate of their late mother.
The two elder sisters, Marsha and Jolene havent had a lot of contact in recent years except for the odd time here and there. And Annis ran away from home fifteen years ago and hadnt been heard from until now. The sisters have never been close and all seem to lead very different lives. The biggest shock they learn of is that Eleanor has left everything to Annis, despite her daughter not being around in years.
As the sisters are forced to spend time together in their old home, they start learn more about each other, and uncover some secrets. It seems that Eleanor was a cold hearted mother, who caused a lot of pain. Will this sisters survive and try to move on together or is it too late!?.
I really enjoyed reading about the lives of the three sisters and learning about each of them and their pasts and to where life has brought them now.
Milly Johnson, really makes solid characters and draws the reader into the thick of the story, although this is some of Milly’s darker work, She has a way of bringing characters to life and also adding a great supporting cast too. This is a story about family, heartbreak, love and coming - Together, Again.
Looking forward to the next read from Milly Johnson.
May 25, 2025
They say you can fool other people but not yourself, but that is not how it is in practice. We all try to fool ourselves and make our own truth
An interesting idea for showing a narcissistic personality (without criminal threads), who was a wife, a mother. With whom could such a person create a lasting relationship. How could such a mother influence her children, what kind of childhood could she create for them. The paths of life, the choices of the three daughters were a consequence of the kind of parents they had. This image was well thought out and fascinating.
The coincidence that was a bit far-fetched, but I can accept it.
Traditionally for the author, there were characters that one would want to love (and be loved by) - which always means that even if Milly Johnson does not give great romances, the love stories in her books warm the heart of a romantic.
August 6, 2023
Milly Johnson has a way of writing that has the chick-lit genre with much deeper meanings and issues.
I really enjoyed reading about the three sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis who are reunited by the death of their mother. They all have different things going on; Jolene, the eldest, has a marriage that, though seemingly perfect at first, has developed way too many flaws and her husband only interested in her money.
Marsha, the middle one whose mother really wanted a boy, had a crush on the priest at 19 and never really had a relationship since. And Annis, the baby, left home at 16 and had no contact since, though nobody knows why.
The plot develops with twists and turns and a really good storyline to get your teeth into. 5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed reading about the three sisters Jolene, Marsha and Annis who are reunited by the death of their mother. They all have different things going on; Jolene, the eldest, has a marriage that, though seemingly perfect at first, has developed way too many flaws and her husband only interested in her money.
Marsha, the middle one whose mother really wanted a boy, had a crush on the priest at 19 and never really had a relationship since. And Annis, the baby, left home at 16 and had no contact since, though nobody knows why.
The plot develops with twists and turns and a really good storyline to get your teeth into. 5 ⭐️
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