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George
Julia spends her days at a run-down London gym, counting the hours until something - anything - changes. Her eighty-year-old neighbour, George, spends his in memories: of lost love, suppressed guilt, and a life shadowed by a mysterious woman from 1964.
When George becomes convinced he may have finally found the daughter of that long-lost love - possibly his own - he persuades Julia to leave London behind and follow him to New York. What begins as an impulsive search for answers soon becomes a moving journey through memory, regret, and the enduring power of unexpected friendship - one that uncovers secrets, challenges a powerful religious cult, and forces both Julia and George to confront the truths they've long tried to ignore.
Witty, haunting, and full of heart, George is a novel about love, memory, and the extraordinary courage found in the most unlikely of bonds.
When George becomes convinced he may have finally found the daughter of that long-lost love - possibly his own - he persuades Julia to leave London behind and follow him to New York. What begins as an impulsive search for answers soon becomes a moving journey through memory, regret, and the enduring power of unexpected friendship - one that uncovers secrets, challenges a powerful religious cult, and forces both Julia and George to confront the truths they've long tried to ignore.
Witty, haunting, and full of heart, George is a novel about love, memory, and the extraordinary courage found in the most unlikely of bonds.
396 pages, Paperback
Published February 13, 2026
About the author
Ramona Lee Soo-Jun
14 books76 followersRamona Lee Soo-Jun is a German–Romanian novelist based in London.
Lee began publishing in 2012, releasing eleven books before the age of nineteen. Early in her career, she wrote under the pen name “Lee Soo-Jun”, which she chose in response to racial bias within the publishing industry, before formally adopting the name at eighteen.
In 2015, the first volume of her AGENT 00 series marked her emergence as Romania’s first martial-arts action author.
Lee's writing moves between action-comedy and literary fiction, incorporating elements of magical realism and satire.
Lee began publishing in 2012, releasing eleven books before the age of nineteen. Early in her career, she wrote under the pen name “Lee Soo-Jun”, which she chose in response to racial bias within the publishing industry, before formally adopting the name at eighteen.
In 2015, the first volume of her AGENT 00 series marked her emergence as Romania’s first martial-arts action author.
Lee's writing moves between action-comedy and literary fiction, incorporating elements of magical realism and satire.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 16, 2026
George sounds like one of those quietly powerful novels that breaks your heart in the gentlest way.
The unlikely friendship between Julia — stuck in a dull, run-down London gym — and George, an eighty-year-old man haunted by love and guilt from decades ago, is such a beautiful setup. Their trip to New York isn’t just about tracking down a possible daughter from a long-lost romance, but about two lonely people helping each other face the parts of their lives they’ve tried to bury.
I really like how the story seems to mix warmth and humor with heavier themes like regret, memory, and truth. The mystery surrounding the woman from 1964 — and the twist involving a religious cult — adds tension and depth, making it more than just an emotional road trip. It feels layered: tender, but with a darker edge.
At its heart, this seems to be about connection across generations and the idea that it’s never too late for honesty, redemption, or change. Bittersweet, thoughtful, and full of heart — the kind of book that stays with you after you finish.
The unlikely friendship between Julia — stuck in a dull, run-down London gym — and George, an eighty-year-old man haunted by love and guilt from decades ago, is such a beautiful setup. Their trip to New York isn’t just about tracking down a possible daughter from a long-lost romance, but about two lonely people helping each other face the parts of their lives they’ve tried to bury.
I really like how the story seems to mix warmth and humor with heavier themes like regret, memory, and truth. The mystery surrounding the woman from 1964 — and the twist involving a religious cult — adds tension and depth, making it more than just an emotional road trip. It feels layered: tender, but with a darker edge.
At its heart, this seems to be about connection across generations and the idea that it’s never too late for honesty, redemption, or change. Bittersweet, thoughtful, and full of heart — the kind of book that stays with you after you finish.
February 13, 2026
A heartfelt thank you to the author, Ramona Lee Soo-jun and NetGalley for providing me with an e-Arc in exchange for my honest review.
George is an emotionally compelling novel that successfully blends a detailed character story with an exciting, high-stakes journey of redemption and self-discovery. The book establishes an unlikely yet deeply engaging friendship between George, an 80-year-old man haunted by a lost love from 1964, and his 20-year-old neighbour, Julia, who is dealing with a difficult past and searching for meaning. Their story is driven by George’s impulsive decision to convince Julia to join him on a trip from London to New York to find his lost love's daughter, or so it seems. This novel beautifully illustrates that it’s never too late to face one's past or form important, unexpected relationships.
Ramona Lee Soo-jun has crafted a magnificent and witty novel that stands out for its exceptional human connection and deeper themes. The primary strength of the book lies in its strong character development. George is an engaging and highly entertaining protagonist whose complexity allows the reader to experience his guilt and memory firsthand. His travel companion, Julia, is portrayed as a very relatable Gen Z character whose search for purpose offers a genuine contrast to George’s quest for redemption. The development of their friendship and their personalities is one of the novel's most moving and successful elements.
Another point is the author’s distinct writing style. It is consistently vivid, moving smoothly from lyrical and thoughtful moments to witty, sarcastic, and quick-paced dialogue. The story includes unexpected twists and shocking moments that are both deeply emotional and crucial to the plot. Furthermore, the novel courageously explores important social and moral issues, including a pointed critique of religious influence in state matters and the misuse of faith, especially through the confrontation of a powerful religious cult.
Overall, George is a memorable, powerful, and ultimately heartwarming reading experience. It is a beautifully written look at connections between generations, love, strong relationships and the extraordinary courage found when facing the complexities of memory and regret. I highly recommend this book, as it has won my heart. Perfect for those who love deep diving into cults and religions in general.
George is an emotionally compelling novel that successfully blends a detailed character story with an exciting, high-stakes journey of redemption and self-discovery. The book establishes an unlikely yet deeply engaging friendship between George, an 80-year-old man haunted by a lost love from 1964, and his 20-year-old neighbour, Julia, who is dealing with a difficult past and searching for meaning. Their story is driven by George’s impulsive decision to convince Julia to join him on a trip from London to New York to find his lost love's daughter, or so it seems. This novel beautifully illustrates that it’s never too late to face one's past or form important, unexpected relationships.
Ramona Lee Soo-jun has crafted a magnificent and witty novel that stands out for its exceptional human connection and deeper themes. The primary strength of the book lies in its strong character development. George is an engaging and highly entertaining protagonist whose complexity allows the reader to experience his guilt and memory firsthand. His travel companion, Julia, is portrayed as a very relatable Gen Z character whose search for purpose offers a genuine contrast to George’s quest for redemption. The development of their friendship and their personalities is one of the novel's most moving and successful elements.
Another point is the author’s distinct writing style. It is consistently vivid, moving smoothly from lyrical and thoughtful moments to witty, sarcastic, and quick-paced dialogue. The story includes unexpected twists and shocking moments that are both deeply emotional and crucial to the plot. Furthermore, the novel courageously explores important social and moral issues, including a pointed critique of religious influence in state matters and the misuse of faith, especially through the confrontation of a powerful religious cult.
Overall, George is a memorable, powerful, and ultimately heartwarming reading experience. It is a beautifully written look at connections between generations, love, strong relationships and the extraordinary courage found when facing the complexities of memory and regret. I highly recommend this book, as it has won my heart. Perfect for those who love deep diving into cults and religions in general.
February 20, 2026
If you could right your wrongs from 60 years ago, would you?
[Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.]
George follows the story between two unlikely friends: George, an eighty-year-old man, and Julia, a twenty-year-old woman. Spontaneously, George decides to take a trip to New York with Julia and from there, Julia slowly learns about George's alternative agenda to the trip: to hopefully right the wrongs that affected his girlfriend, Cornelia, in the 1960s. With a lot of secrets and twists and turns on the way, Julia and George's friendship grows deeper with hardships and resolution.
I was initially drawn to this book due to the musical aspect (being a music lover and musician) but it didn't have as big of a role in the novel as I would have expected. The real musical involvement doesn't come until basically the end of the novel, which for me, was a bit disappointing.
While the plot is quite engaging, I didn't really get "into it" until about page 150. It was a bit of a rocky start: not really understanding why certain things were in the novel (ex: Julia's job) to jumping back into George's memories from the '60s without fully understanding why I'm being brought there. It does all make sense at the end of the novel, but I was disconnected for the first bit.
Overall, the story line was interesting and compelling (especially how it all comes together in the end) but for me, it lacked the literary depth that I've come to expect in novels. It really scratched the surface of important character developments and social issues, and lacked concentration on more noteworthy aspects that would make the reader gain a deeper understanding (which I believe was Ramona's intent with George under the guise of a "love story").
3/5 Stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
[Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.]
George follows the story between two unlikely friends: George, an eighty-year-old man, and Julia, a twenty-year-old woman. Spontaneously, George decides to take a trip to New York with Julia and from there, Julia slowly learns about George's alternative agenda to the trip: to hopefully right the wrongs that affected his girlfriend, Cornelia, in the 1960s. With a lot of secrets and twists and turns on the way, Julia and George's friendship grows deeper with hardships and resolution.
I was initially drawn to this book due to the musical aspect (being a music lover and musician) but it didn't have as big of a role in the novel as I would have expected. The real musical involvement doesn't come until basically the end of the novel, which for me, was a bit disappointing.
While the plot is quite engaging, I didn't really get "into it" until about page 150. It was a bit of a rocky start: not really understanding why certain things were in the novel (ex: Julia's job) to jumping back into George's memories from the '60s without fully understanding why I'm being brought there. It does all make sense at the end of the novel, but I was disconnected for the first bit.
Overall, the story line was interesting and compelling (especially how it all comes together in the end) but for me, it lacked the literary depth that I've come to expect in novels. It really scratched the surface of important character developments and social issues, and lacked concentration on more noteworthy aspects that would make the reader gain a deeper understanding (which I believe was Ramona's intent with George under the guise of a "love story").
3/5 Stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2026
Nostalgic Adventures Solving Old Mysteries
George is a book filled to the brim with a brilliance that is familiar to anyone who grew up in the 90s. Every page is dripping in a style that reflects the way media back then frequently referenced a glorified version of the 60s.
From the chapters being an actual playlist of greatest hits from The Beatles to the adventure to Woodstock in a VW Kombi, Ramona clearly understands the vibe of those times.
In this fog of memories, suspense builds as we learn more about the protagonist in tandem with the growing mystery around the character George. When his idealized past catches up with the reality of the present, the story shifts from a feel-good road trip into a heavier exploration of confronting hidden regrets.
That theme develops into a deep mystery that further plays into some of that 90s storytelling structure, with dramatic court scenes and the hope for redemption. I believe it all comes together in a satisfying conclusion that updates a familiar coming-of-age formula for more modern audiences.
In a single line, I would say George is a nostalgic adventure and mystery book that asks us what it means to be a good person and what it means to be remembered.
George is a book filled to the brim with a brilliance that is familiar to anyone who grew up in the 90s. Every page is dripping in a style that reflects the way media back then frequently referenced a glorified version of the 60s.
From the chapters being an actual playlist of greatest hits from The Beatles to the adventure to Woodstock in a VW Kombi, Ramona clearly understands the vibe of those times.
In this fog of memories, suspense builds as we learn more about the protagonist in tandem with the growing mystery around the character George. When his idealized past catches up with the reality of the present, the story shifts from a feel-good road trip into a heavier exploration of confronting hidden regrets.
That theme develops into a deep mystery that further plays into some of that 90s storytelling structure, with dramatic court scenes and the hope for redemption. I believe it all comes together in a satisfying conclusion that updates a familiar coming-of-age formula for more modern audiences.
In a single line, I would say George is a nostalgic adventure and mystery book that asks us what it means to be a good person and what it means to be remembered.
Review of advance copy received from Author
George is a quiet, reflective novel about love, regret, and the way the past has a habit of resurfacing, even late in life. The story centres on George, an 80-year-old man, and his unexpected friendship with his much younger neighbour, Julia. Through Julia’s narration, we’re gradually introduced to George’s memories — particularly his first love, Cornelia, and the life he left behind before settling in the UK.
Much of the novel unfolds through George’s flashbacks, with a trip to New York providing a sense of forward movement as long-buried truths begin to emerge. Alongside this, the book touches on darker themes, including abuse within the church and the long-lasting damage it can cause. This strand adds emotional weight and gives the story a broader sense of purpose beyond George’s personal regrets.
This is very much a character-led story, one that takes its time and asks the reader to sit with memory, loss, and unanswered questions. Readers who enjoy introspective novels and stories about unlikely connections across generations may find a lot to engage with here.
Much of the novel unfolds through George’s flashbacks, with a trip to New York providing a sense of forward movement as long-buried truths begin to emerge. Alongside this, the book touches on darker themes, including abuse within the church and the long-lasting damage it can cause. This strand adds emotional weight and gives the story a broader sense of purpose beyond George’s personal regrets.
This is very much a character-led story, one that takes its time and asks the reader to sit with memory, loss, and unanswered questions. Readers who enjoy introspective novels and stories about unlikely connections across generations may find a lot to engage with here.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3,5 stars
ARC review:
The first half of the book didn't really lure me in. There were a lot of names and a lot of things happening at the same time, with stories in the past and stories happening now. This resulted in me just being confused.
However! The second half of the book was very intriguing! Everything they uncovered about the church and the fact that George just found so many people to help with his cause was really beautiful to read. Also, everything George has done for Julia was very touching. I also really liked the dimension of all the characters and how everyone fit into the story, but also how the characters formed their own little family.
I didn't really like George's character. He never really tried to rekindle his relationship with his children, and therefore his redemption felt too late for me.
If you like historical fiction and/or books that combine present and past, this book is a good book to read! It is also a good book if you are interested in uncovering cults and victim testimonials.
ARC review:
The first half of the book didn't really lure me in. There were a lot of names and a lot of things happening at the same time, with stories in the past and stories happening now. This resulted in me just being confused.
However! The second half of the book was very intriguing! Everything they uncovered about the church and the fact that George just found so many people to help with his cause was really beautiful to read. Also, everything George has done for Julia was very touching. I also really liked the dimension of all the characters and how everyone fit into the story, but also how the characters formed their own little family.
I didn't really like George's character. He never really tried to rekindle his relationship with his children, and therefore his redemption felt too late for me.
If you like historical fiction and/or books that combine present and past, this book is a good book to read! It is also a good book if you are interested in uncovering cults and victim testimonials.
February 22, 2026
Beautiful. That is all I can say.
I essentially got this book because of the reference to The Beatles, however, I am glad I did otherwise I would have missed out on such a heartfelt, moving story of an old man trying to right the wrongs of his past and find a connection with his family.
The comic timing of Ramonas writing really helps to balance out the harsh realities of the stories content. Some are triggering but we'll worth the read. It brings some very important cultural issues to light.
This book made me laugh, cry and all emotions in-between.
Thank you to the author Ramona and Booksirens for allowing me the privileg e of arc reading this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I essentially got this book because of the reference to The Beatles, however, I am glad I did otherwise I would have missed out on such a heartfelt, moving story of an old man trying to right the wrongs of his past and find a connection with his family.
The comic timing of Ramonas writing really helps to balance out the harsh realities of the stories content. Some are triggering but we'll worth the read. It brings some very important cultural issues to light.
This book made me laugh, cry and all emotions in-between.
Thank you to the author Ramona and Booksirens for allowing me the privileg e of arc reading this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An unlikely friendship between a young girl and an old man — honestly, I wish everyone had a George and a Julia in their life.
They set off on a road trip in one of my absolute favorite classics: a vintage 1960 VW Kombi, which only added to the nostalgic, tender atmosphere of the story.
If you’re looking for a book that will truly touch your heart and leave you with a lingering sense of melancholy, this should be your next read.
What begins as a heartwarming road trip among friends slowly unfolds into something deeper, filled with unexpected turns and emotional twists that kept me completely glued to the pages until the very end.
They set off on a road trip in one of my absolute favorite classics: a vintage 1960 VW Kombi, which only added to the nostalgic, tender atmosphere of the story.
If you’re looking for a book that will truly touch your heart and leave you with a lingering sense of melancholy, this should be your next read.
What begins as a heartwarming road trip among friends slowly unfolds into something deeper, filled with unexpected turns and emotional twists that kept me completely glued to the pages until the very end.
December 1, 2025
fun, touching, and charming book with some great plotlines and wonderful vibes. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Lovely journey through time and memory.
September 21, 2026
O poveste despre fragilitatea umană, spusă cu luciditate și fără menajamente.
November 22, 2025
A touching and thoughtful story. The perspective lends itself to dry humour and highlights generational viewpoints well. I liked the style of writing and the characterisation behind the different voices throughout.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Simultaneously delightful and devastating, George is a complex story about flawed people, difficult relationships, and seeking justice when others would say it's been far too long. Everything feels real and the ending will stick with you.
Review of advance copy received from Sonstiges
"Sometimes, I feel like I might be God. All I do is write and write and cry... but nothing changes."
I recieved the Arc for George via BookSirens. It's a Book about a man named George, who is in his 80s and going on a journey to rectify a wrong that followed him for about sixty years, accompanied by his young friend Julia. It's about his first love, about loss, regrets and the cruelties humans can do, hiding behind the name of a higher power.
Right from the start I was sucked into the story by the authors vivid way of storytelling. Especially the flashback scenes played before me like an old hollywood movie and I could just see it being played on a big screen. Goerge is an interesting charakter, who has made many mistakes in his life but tries to make them right again. We meet a lot of interesting side charecters along the way and the setting just has an oldschool heartwarming vibe. I very much liked how his story progressed, the decisions he made and the ending felt very organic.
The only minor downside to the book for me was our other "main charakter" Julia. The story is told from her perspective but we dont really get a good grip on who she really is. She gets a tragic backstory that is revealed in snippets few and far apart but in my opinion I could have lived without that addition to her character, if she'd gotten a little more of her own personality seperate from George instead.
All in all I really liked the journey the author took me on especially because of her beautiful writing style. I couldnt put the book down once I startet reading and enjoyed every second of it.
I recieved the Arc for George via BookSirens. It's a Book about a man named George, who is in his 80s and going on a journey to rectify a wrong that followed him for about sixty years, accompanied by his young friend Julia. It's about his first love, about loss, regrets and the cruelties humans can do, hiding behind the name of a higher power.
Right from the start I was sucked into the story by the authors vivid way of storytelling. Especially the flashback scenes played before me like an old hollywood movie and I could just see it being played on a big screen. Goerge is an interesting charakter, who has made many mistakes in his life but tries to make them right again. We meet a lot of interesting side charecters along the way and the setting just has an oldschool heartwarming vibe. I very much liked how his story progressed, the decisions he made and the ending felt very organic.
The only minor downside to the book for me was our other "main charakter" Julia. The story is told from her perspective but we dont really get a good grip on who she really is. She gets a tragic backstory that is revealed in snippets few and far apart but in my opinion I could have lived without that addition to her character, if she'd gotten a little more of her own personality seperate from George instead.
All in all I really liked the journey the author took me on especially because of her beautiful writing style. I couldnt put the book down once I startet reading and enjoyed every second of it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
An emotional rollercoaster filled with regret and hope.
George really got me in my feelings. The choices we make, the things we wish we could change... and finding little bits of hope even when things feel heavy. This novel was sad, funny, touching, and stayed with me long after I finished reading.
George really got me in my feelings. The choices we make, the things we wish we could change... and finding little bits of hope even when things feel heavy. This novel was sad, funny, touching, and stayed with me long after I finished reading.
Review of advance copy
Bittersweet with a touch of good humour. Yeah, I'll read this one again someday. It's a one-of-a-kind experience.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews