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The Many Colours of Us
My dearest daughter
This will be the last letter I write to you. I hope she will let you read this one. I hope she will let you ask questions and hear the story you need to hear. The story of you. And if she doesn’t I hope that one day you will get curious, wonder where you came from and come and find me.
Called to a lawyers office to be informed of an inheritance, Julia Simmonds, discovers she’s the secret love-child of the late, great artist Bruce Baldwin. With temperamental seventies supermodel Philadelphia Simmonds as a mother, Julia is used to drama, but is completely unprepared for the way her life is about to irrevocably change.
Bruce not only left Julia his house, but as she discovers, her father wrote to her. One letter every year of her life, urging Julia to learn from his mistakes.
It is finally time for Julia to dig deep into her mysterious past and take control of her future, but as more secrets and lies are uncovered, she must find the courage to follow her dreams…
This will be the last letter I write to you. I hope she will let you read this one. I hope she will let you ask questions and hear the story you need to hear. The story of you. And if she doesn’t I hope that one day you will get curious, wonder where you came from and come and find me.
Called to a lawyers office to be informed of an inheritance, Julia Simmonds, discovers she’s the secret love-child of the late, great artist Bruce Baldwin. With temperamental seventies supermodel Philadelphia Simmonds as a mother, Julia is used to drama, but is completely unprepared for the way her life is about to irrevocably change.
Bruce not only left Julia his house, but as she discovers, her father wrote to her. One letter every year of her life, urging Julia to learn from his mistakes.
It is finally time for Julia to dig deep into her mysterious past and take control of her future, but as more secrets and lies are uncovered, she must find the courage to follow her dreams…
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2017
780 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Burton
18 books302 followersRachel Burton is the bestselling author of historical timeslip novels and has previously written romantic comedies.
Rachel was born in Cambridge and grew up in a house full of books and records. She has read obsessively since she first realised those black squiggles on the pages that lined her parents’ bookshelves were actually words and it has gone down in family history that any time something interesting happened, she missed it because she had her nose in a book.
After reading for a degree in Classics and another in English Literature she accidentally fell into a career in law but her love of books prevailed as she realised that she wanted to slip into imaginary worlds of her own making. She eventually managed to write her first novel on her lunch breaks.
She is obsessed with old houses and the secrets they keep, with abandoned gardens and locked gates, with family histories and surprising revelations, and with the outcomes of those surprises many generations later.
She lives in Yorkshire with her husband, a variety of cats and far too many books. By writing novels she now has an excuse for her head being forever in the clouds.
Find her on Instagram as @RachelBWriter, subscribe to her newsletter rachelburton.substack.com or website rachelburtonwrites.com
Rachel was born in Cambridge and grew up in a house full of books and records. She has read obsessively since she first realised those black squiggles on the pages that lined her parents’ bookshelves were actually words and it has gone down in family history that any time something interesting happened, she missed it because she had her nose in a book.
After reading for a degree in Classics and another in English Literature she accidentally fell into a career in law but her love of books prevailed as she realised that she wanted to slip into imaginary worlds of her own making. She eventually managed to write her first novel on her lunch breaks.
She is obsessed with old houses and the secrets they keep, with abandoned gardens and locked gates, with family histories and surprising revelations, and with the outcomes of those surprises many generations later.
She lives in Yorkshire with her husband, a variety of cats and far too many books. By writing novels she now has an excuse for her head being forever in the clouds.
Find her on Instagram as @RachelBWriter, subscribe to her newsletter rachelburton.substack.com or website rachelburtonwrites.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 2, 2017
5☆ A beautiful poignant read
The many colours of us is a beautiful yet emotional book about, courage, truths and discoveries, with a hint of romance.
The story is centred around Julia.
Unbeknown to her she is the secret love child of the artist Bruce Baldwin.
Her mother a famous model from the 70s.
Julia's life is about to change when she walks into the Lawyers office and makes the life changing discovery. Her biological father Bruce Baldwin had passed away and she is now the sole air and is about to claim her inheritance.
Julia was stuck in a job she didn't love so this couldn't of come at a better time.
For me the best bit of the book was seeing Julia uncover her past, learning all about her father through letters her wrote to her. The were poignant, and written from the heart.
Her father wrote her a letter every single birthday. However her Mum was not about to let Julia have the letters as she wanted to keep he's identity a secret.
It was so heartwarming to see her reactions and discover her truth.
I loved Julia she was warm, strong and hugely likeable.
The Author really took you on a journey alongside Julia, you felt her pain, her happiness, her sadness it was thoroughly enchanting. I became fully immersed into the story and really didn't want it to end.
I loved seeing her relationship blossom between her and the Lawyer Edwin.
It was so nice to see her happy.
This was a beautiful read with some heartfelt tender moments.
Rachel took me on a journey of self discovery alongside Julia which for me made this book extra special. But as I said before the letters for me is when I became fully immersed within the story.
I loved all the characters and each one played their part within the story so very well.
Would I recommend this book.... 100% yes
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
The many colours of us is a beautiful yet emotional book about, courage, truths and discoveries, with a hint of romance.
The story is centred around Julia.
Unbeknown to her she is the secret love child of the artist Bruce Baldwin.
Her mother a famous model from the 70s.
Julia's life is about to change when she walks into the Lawyers office and makes the life changing discovery. Her biological father Bruce Baldwin had passed away and she is now the sole air and is about to claim her inheritance.
Julia was stuck in a job she didn't love so this couldn't of come at a better time.
For me the best bit of the book was seeing Julia uncover her past, learning all about her father through letters her wrote to her. The were poignant, and written from the heart.
Her father wrote her a letter every single birthday. However her Mum was not about to let Julia have the letters as she wanted to keep he's identity a secret.
It was so heartwarming to see her reactions and discover her truth.
I loved Julia she was warm, strong and hugely likeable.
The Author really took you on a journey alongside Julia, you felt her pain, her happiness, her sadness it was thoroughly enchanting. I became fully immersed into the story and really didn't want it to end.
I loved seeing her relationship blossom between her and the Lawyer Edwin.
It was so nice to see her happy.
This was a beautiful read with some heartfelt tender moments.
Rachel took me on a journey of self discovery alongside Julia which for me made this book extra special. But as I said before the letters for me is when I became fully immersed within the story.
I loved all the characters and each one played their part within the story so very well.
Would I recommend this book.... 100% yes
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
April 10, 2017
I make no secret of the fact that I'm an emotional reader, drawn to books that are likely to result in a lump in my throat and a quiet sniffle into a tissue (while my 12 year old exclaims "are you crying again?") and that's what attracted me to The Many Colours Of Us in the first place. It sounded like an emotional read, with letters from the past revealing a life changing secret. Just my cup of tea.
The story centers on main character, Julie. A woman in her early thirties and somewhat adrift having dated the same guy for a decade, without taking the next step of living together, working an office job she hates and renting the spare bedroom in her friends dilapidated house. But Julia's life is about to change - she's just discovered her father was a successful and respected artist and she's the sole heir of his entire estate.
So girl stuck in a rut, finds riches and all is well - right? Well, yes but not exactly, because The Many Colours Of Us has more depth than that, and the added touch of letters, wrote annually on Julia's birthday draw a more complex and human story of mistakes, regret and an innate fear of rejection. Her father's absence in her childhood is a case of leaving something so long, it's becomes almost impossible to know how to dare to change things. Bruce's letters provoked mixed feelings in me - anger, frustration and yet, some sympathy too. Similarly, Julia's mum has acted in a credibly human way by being both selfish and selfless. There's blame on both sides and I couldn't help feel that someone at some point in the past just needed to bang the two of their heads together. Both being celebrities and famous though, I felt the people around them had probably pandered to them rather than been honest with them.
I really liked the character of Julia though, she's far nicer than I ever would've been - a genuinely warm, understanding and thoughtful person and it was easy to root for her. There's a real feeling of self discovery from this character, as she not only finds out about her father, but gains confidence in herself having been overshadowed by her glamorous mother. I also enjoyed the slowly simmering romance between herself and solicitor Edwin, which was tender rather than passionate.
With some more lighthearted moments - usually from Julia's mother, Philadelphia (who quite frankly wouldn't have looked out of place on the set of Ab Fab) and exuberant Italian cafe owner, Marco, The Many Colours Of Us was a delight to read. I read it on a lazy Sunday morning and it would be perfect for those times when all you want is a relaxing book to while away some hours peacefully. It had emotion, entertainment and romance with an interesting cast of characters and a plot that allowed the right amount of intrigue to keep me reading. I really enjoyed the time spent in Julia's world and left it feeling satisfied and hopeful for her future, and with a big smile on my face.
The story centers on main character, Julie. A woman in her early thirties and somewhat adrift having dated the same guy for a decade, without taking the next step of living together, working an office job she hates and renting the spare bedroom in her friends dilapidated house. But Julia's life is about to change - she's just discovered her father was a successful and respected artist and she's the sole heir of his entire estate.
So girl stuck in a rut, finds riches and all is well - right? Well, yes but not exactly, because The Many Colours Of Us has more depth than that, and the added touch of letters, wrote annually on Julia's birthday draw a more complex and human story of mistakes, regret and an innate fear of rejection. Her father's absence in her childhood is a case of leaving something so long, it's becomes almost impossible to know how to dare to change things. Bruce's letters provoked mixed feelings in me - anger, frustration and yet, some sympathy too. Similarly, Julia's mum has acted in a credibly human way by being both selfish and selfless. There's blame on both sides and I couldn't help feel that someone at some point in the past just needed to bang the two of their heads together. Both being celebrities and famous though, I felt the people around them had probably pandered to them rather than been honest with them.
I really liked the character of Julia though, she's far nicer than I ever would've been - a genuinely warm, understanding and thoughtful person and it was easy to root for her. There's a real feeling of self discovery from this character, as she not only finds out about her father, but gains confidence in herself having been overshadowed by her glamorous mother. I also enjoyed the slowly simmering romance between herself and solicitor Edwin, which was tender rather than passionate.
With some more lighthearted moments - usually from Julia's mother, Philadelphia (who quite frankly wouldn't have looked out of place on the set of Ab Fab) and exuberant Italian cafe owner, Marco, The Many Colours Of Us was a delight to read. I read it on a lazy Sunday morning and it would be perfect for those times when all you want is a relaxing book to while away some hours peacefully. It had emotion, entertainment and romance with an interesting cast of characters and a plot that allowed the right amount of intrigue to keep me reading. I really enjoyed the time spent in Julia's world and left it feeling satisfied and hopeful for her future, and with a big smile on my face.
Read
June 16, 2017Julia goes to a lawyer office and uncovers some shocking truths about her life: she is the daughter of someone famous and gets a big inheritance. But probably the most shocking thing is to find out her father has been sending her letters all her life... and now she finally can uncover them along the truth of her parentage.
I am not gonna lie because it would feel bad and irrespetuos of the author: I got an electronic ARC of the book to review but it seems to have ghosted into thin air and can't get it back or ask for it again as it is not available anymore. So I am not going to punctuate it or pass on any kind of evaluation. It's a pity as it seemed a peculiar read about uncovering an unknown past thru lies or half truths about Julia's origins...
I am not gonna lie because it would feel bad and irrespetuos of the author: I got an electronic ARC of the book to review but it seems to have ghosted into thin air and can't get it back or ask for it again as it is not available anymore. So I am not going to punctuate it or pass on any kind of evaluation. It's a pity as it seemed a peculiar read about uncovering an unknown past thru lies or half truths about Julia's origins...
August 14, 2017
Set in London, this contemporary novel explores grief from the point of view of a young woman who never knew her deceased father. She isn’t even aware that what she is feeling is grief. Around her, everyone who knew her father is dealing with his loss, yet she is trying to learn what she can about him and make sense of her childhood. In this, the story is intriguing, though I only grasped it near the end, and I regret that I didn’t appreciate it from the start. Most of the book is a straightforward narrative of events, sometimes slow and mundane. Still, the outcome was very satisfying. The heroine changed in a deep and meaningful way, showing that grief can, if handled wisely and with the support of others, serve as a valuable milestone in personal growth.
June 2, 2017
I love a book involving family secrets. There is just something about knowing that the secret is going to change someone’s life and seeing how they deal with it that really appeals to me. Add art and creativity into the mix and I was all for diving into this story.
What makes this book stand out is that even though Julia learns of her father after his death and at many occasions during the story is angry at those around her and the situation, it doesn’t bog down the book. It continues to have this light tone, which I found remarkable as sometimes I can find myself feeling a bit angsty after reading a book where such secrets are revealed, which is what I was expecting, but even through lots of other emotions I still felt hopeful.
I found I was drawn into Julia’s story very easily and you can’t help but feel for her as she goes through so much upheaval in her personal life. She is such a likeable and relatable character, despite her unusual upbringing and everything being thrown at her she is resilient and has such a brilliant outlook on the direction her life is taking. I thought perhaps she went a bit too easy on her mother at times but then maybe that’s what made me admire her even more.
Julia’s mother Philadelphia is also a character that really stood out to me, she’s particular in a way that I found funny and infuriating and I enjoyed getting to see so much growth in her as well.
The letters interspersed throughout the book were a wonderful addition to this story. It was a lovely way to get to know more about the past without it being dumped on me all at once and it was nice to see things from Bruce’s perspective as well.
The only thing that maybe just didn’t quite make it for me was the chemistry between Julia and Edwin. I thought they were both lovely and of course, I was always hoping that they would admit they liked each other as more than friends but I didn’t really feel the chemistry between them at the beginning. Towards the end of the book I could begin to see it better but at the start, it felt as if people were pushing the idea of them together rather than something that occurred naturally. Maybe it was just me, but this didn’t detract from my enjoyment at all.
This is a wonderful, uplifting and very emotional book, the writing flows well and easily captures your attention. I would highly recommend it and I can’t wait to see what comes next for this author.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
What makes this book stand out is that even though Julia learns of her father after his death and at many occasions during the story is angry at those around her and the situation, it doesn’t bog down the book. It continues to have this light tone, which I found remarkable as sometimes I can find myself feeling a bit angsty after reading a book where such secrets are revealed, which is what I was expecting, but even through lots of other emotions I still felt hopeful.
I found I was drawn into Julia’s story very easily and you can’t help but feel for her as she goes through so much upheaval in her personal life. She is such a likeable and relatable character, despite her unusual upbringing and everything being thrown at her she is resilient and has such a brilliant outlook on the direction her life is taking. I thought perhaps she went a bit too easy on her mother at times but then maybe that’s what made me admire her even more.
Julia’s mother Philadelphia is also a character that really stood out to me, she’s particular in a way that I found funny and infuriating and I enjoyed getting to see so much growth in her as well.
The letters interspersed throughout the book were a wonderful addition to this story. It was a lovely way to get to know more about the past without it being dumped on me all at once and it was nice to see things from Bruce’s perspective as well.
The only thing that maybe just didn’t quite make it for me was the chemistry between Julia and Edwin. I thought they were both lovely and of course, I was always hoping that they would admit they liked each other as more than friends but I didn’t really feel the chemistry between them at the beginning. Towards the end of the book I could begin to see it better but at the start, it felt as if people were pushing the idea of them together rather than something that occurred naturally. Maybe it was just me, but this didn’t detract from my enjoyment at all.
This is a wonderful, uplifting and very emotional book, the writing flows well and easily captures your attention. I would highly recommend it and I can’t wait to see what comes next for this author.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
March 15, 2018
Finally I found the time to finish this beautiful book that I've started last summer and unfortunately had to put aside until now. It certainly speak volumes that I kept thinking at Julia and Edwin wondering if they would just get together in the end or not.
The letters of Julia's father Bruce were an emotional snipped of a past long gone but not completely lost.
A fantastic novel and I cannot wait for the next book from this very talented author.
The letters of Julia's father Bruce were an emotional snipped of a past long gone but not completely lost.
A fantastic novel and I cannot wait for the next book from this very talented author.
June 26, 2017
I had no idea what to expect with this debut when I started reading, but I quickly discovered it should come with a box of tissues. I don't think I was more than a few chapters in before I was blubbing all over my Kindle.
This is a beautiful story about fathers and daughters, unconventional family bonds and how a single discovery can change both lives and worldviews overnight.
Thirty-year-old Julia, daughter of famed model Philadelphia Simmonds, has never known her father. The closest thing she has to a dad is her mum's loyal PA, Johnny. But all that changes when she finds out her real father was world-famous artist Bruce Baldwin. Bruce, she discovers, has recently passed away, leaving her his vast fortune.
As she gets to know her dad through his work and the letters he left behind for her, Julia is determined to use her newfound wealth to create a legacy he would be proud of. With the help of her unconventional family and their friends - not least handsome, magnetic family lawyer Edwin Jones, who's nursing a few issues of his own - she sets to work creating an art salon for up-and-coming young artists while also rediscovering her own creative side as a dressmaker.
This was exceptionally well-written - I found it hard to believe it was a debut - with a fluid, waffle-free writing style that I really enjoyed. There are a number of unforgettable characters, both primary and secondary; I particularly loved Julia's often immature but ultimately loving mother Philadelphia, and uber-protective Italian chef Marco, who was just hilarious.
But my absolute favourite part of the story had to be watching the posthumous bond between Bruce and Julia grow as she read his letters, which he wrote to her every year on her birthday but were kept from her by her mother. These were presented out of chronological sequence, allowing the reader to put together Bruce's life like a jigsaw, and they were just so moving. I have a personal connection with the subject matter as someone who was only given the opportunity to form a bond with their dad in adult life, and Burton has done a wonderful job of capturing the rollercoaster of emotions that entails in a way that's both subtle and compassionate. Can't wait for the next one!
This is a beautiful story about fathers and daughters, unconventional family bonds and how a single discovery can change both lives and worldviews overnight.
Thirty-year-old Julia, daughter of famed model Philadelphia Simmonds, has never known her father. The closest thing she has to a dad is her mum's loyal PA, Johnny. But all that changes when she finds out her real father was world-famous artist Bruce Baldwin. Bruce, she discovers, has recently passed away, leaving her his vast fortune.
As she gets to know her dad through his work and the letters he left behind for her, Julia is determined to use her newfound wealth to create a legacy he would be proud of. With the help of her unconventional family and their friends - not least handsome, magnetic family lawyer Edwin Jones, who's nursing a few issues of his own - she sets to work creating an art salon for up-and-coming young artists while also rediscovering her own creative side as a dressmaker.
This was exceptionally well-written - I found it hard to believe it was a debut - with a fluid, waffle-free writing style that I really enjoyed. There are a number of unforgettable characters, both primary and secondary; I particularly loved Julia's often immature but ultimately loving mother Philadelphia, and uber-protective Italian chef Marco, who was just hilarious.
But my absolute favourite part of the story had to be watching the posthumous bond between Bruce and Julia grow as she read his letters, which he wrote to her every year on her birthday but were kept from her by her mother. These were presented out of chronological sequence, allowing the reader to put together Bruce's life like a jigsaw, and they were just so moving. I have a personal connection with the subject matter as someone who was only given the opportunity to form a bond with their dad in adult life, and Burton has done a wonderful job of capturing the rollercoaster of emotions that entails in a way that's both subtle and compassionate. Can't wait for the next one!
May 20, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
What do I think….what do I think….
1. Julia’s mother needs a stern talking to and a ruddy good shake.
2. Julia’s father should have been made to see sense when he was alive.
3. Julia needs a bloody big hug, with someone trustworthy to lead her in the right and TRUTHFUL direction.
Review done. kthx.
Fine, I’ll do a proper one! Although if I was asked to say three things about this storyline, the above is what I would come out with! Now, seeing as I haven’t been asked for three things in particular, I can now squeal and ramble!
Sometimes when I sit down to read a novel, I ensure I am on Twitter at the same time as I quite like tweeting the author whilst I read their book; Rachel Burton was one of those authors!
I have to say one thing first though as it really shocked me, to be honest I still can’t get my head round it….
HOW THE PICASSO IS THIS RACHEL BURTON’S DEBUT NOVEL?! DEBUT?!? DEBUT!?! I didn’t realise it was her debut until afterwards! The entire novel read as though it was written by an author who had perfected her craft! Can you tell that I was gobsmacked? If this is what Rachel Burton manages to deliver with a debut novel, I cannot WAIT for book two.
Julia Simmonds has grown up knowing one parent, her mother. Every time Julia tried to bring up the subject about her father, her mother culled the conversation, using the excuse of lack of memory for lack of information. As far as Julia was concerned this was her life, she trusted her mother and the information she had been given over the years. Her mother hadn’t exactly given her cause for concern regarding her father….
How could you not be hooked with a storyline like this? I thought my family had a lot of skeletons in our closets but EEEESH! It didn’t take me long at all to sink my teeth into the gritty and intense storyline, as soon as I was hooked I couldn’t put the book down, hence why it only took me a matter of hours to read. Unfortunately, I was able to relate to several of the situations that unfolded in this book, especially where Julia’s father was concerned.
Seeing as I read this book like an outsider looking in, I attempted to see the situation from each of the characters points of view to begin with, but I couldn’t help getting angry at Julia’s mother. Well, and her father! Their ‘logic’ was extremely selfish in my opinion. But like I said, I can relate to certain aspects of the book which is why my views are more emotionally based, and a lot harder than others.
Just to clarify, but views up to this point are solely on the storyline and not the way the author has written it, btw.
‘The Many Colours of Us’ blew me away on more than one occasion. It wasn’t all light-hearted and lovey dovey, the storyline was incredibly black and white at times (in a good way), powerful and unbelievably soulful. I don’t think I have ever read a debut novel that carried itself with such grace, intensity, and emotion, like Rachel Burton’s. I’m not going to lie, I couldn’t stand a couple of the characters in the book yet they brought another dimension to the novel, so they were put in the book for the right reasons (even if they did irk me).
Again, this is yet another review that I have to be rather vague about as every event and emotion in the book is linked to another. I don’t wish to get into trouble for causing a domino effect of spoilers!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Many Colours of Us’; Rachel Burton really has done herself proud by writing such a beautiful, but raw storyline. A lot of people are going to read this book and feel as though their own lives are being written about; yes, it really is that relatable.
Such a poignant and impressive debut novel. I loved it! Absolutely flawless.
Thank you HQ.
What do I think….what do I think….
1. Julia’s mother needs a stern talking to and a ruddy good shake.
2. Julia’s father should have been made to see sense when he was alive.
3. Julia needs a bloody big hug, with someone trustworthy to lead her in the right and TRUTHFUL direction.
Review done. kthx.
Fine, I’ll do a proper one! Although if I was asked to say three things about this storyline, the above is what I would come out with! Now, seeing as I haven’t been asked for three things in particular, I can now squeal and ramble!
Sometimes when I sit down to read a novel, I ensure I am on Twitter at the same time as I quite like tweeting the author whilst I read their book; Rachel Burton was one of those authors!
I have to say one thing first though as it really shocked me, to be honest I still can’t get my head round it….
HOW THE PICASSO IS THIS RACHEL BURTON’S DEBUT NOVEL?! DEBUT?!? DEBUT!?! I didn’t realise it was her debut until afterwards! The entire novel read as though it was written by an author who had perfected her craft! Can you tell that I was gobsmacked? If this is what Rachel Burton manages to deliver with a debut novel, I cannot WAIT for book two.
Julia Simmonds has grown up knowing one parent, her mother. Every time Julia tried to bring up the subject about her father, her mother culled the conversation, using the excuse of lack of memory for lack of information. As far as Julia was concerned this was her life, she trusted her mother and the information she had been given over the years. Her mother hadn’t exactly given her cause for concern regarding her father….
How could you not be hooked with a storyline like this? I thought my family had a lot of skeletons in our closets but EEEESH! It didn’t take me long at all to sink my teeth into the gritty and intense storyline, as soon as I was hooked I couldn’t put the book down, hence why it only took me a matter of hours to read. Unfortunately, I was able to relate to several of the situations that unfolded in this book, especially where Julia’s father was concerned.
Seeing as I read this book like an outsider looking in, I attempted to see the situation from each of the characters points of view to begin with, but I couldn’t help getting angry at Julia’s mother. Well, and her father! Their ‘logic’ was extremely selfish in my opinion. But like I said, I can relate to certain aspects of the book which is why my views are more emotionally based, and a lot harder than others.
Just to clarify, but views up to this point are solely on the storyline and not the way the author has written it, btw.
‘The Many Colours of Us’ blew me away on more than one occasion. It wasn’t all light-hearted and lovey dovey, the storyline was incredibly black and white at times (in a good way), powerful and unbelievably soulful. I don’t think I have ever read a debut novel that carried itself with such grace, intensity, and emotion, like Rachel Burton’s. I’m not going to lie, I couldn’t stand a couple of the characters in the book yet they brought another dimension to the novel, so they were put in the book for the right reasons (even if they did irk me).
Again, this is yet another review that I have to be rather vague about as every event and emotion in the book is linked to another. I don’t wish to get into trouble for causing a domino effect of spoilers!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Many Colours of Us’; Rachel Burton really has done herself proud by writing such a beautiful, but raw storyline. A lot of people are going to read this book and feel as though their own lives are being written about; yes, it really is that relatable.
Such a poignant and impressive debut novel. I loved it! Absolutely flawless.
Thank you HQ.
January 9, 2018
A beautiful, touching story with characters you will fall in love with.
April 6, 2017
Wonderful, touching story and a truly gorgeous hero. I was desperate for Julia to get her happily ever after. It also made me want to go to a summer wedding so badly!
April 13, 2017
A lovely, light-touch yet touching story with a strong protagonist, intriguing hero and great supporting cast. Despite the fact our heroine meets the hunky lawyer and becomes a multi-millionaire right at the beginning of the story, the story's pacing keeps unfolding wonderfully. A perfect summer read - and the nod towards Richard Curtis films is so true!
November 19, 2017
Growing through changes
The characters in this book have all experienced love and loss at times in their lives. Throughout the story they learn to adjust to the things that life throws at them, and in the end, of course love conquers all.
The characters in this book have all experienced love and loss at times in their lives. Throughout the story they learn to adjust to the things that life throws at them, and in the end, of course love conquers all.
July 21, 2017
A beautifully written debut novel. This sweet story was gentle yet captivating; classy and compelling.
October 1, 2020
This book was just what I needed! A great big hug between the pages courtesy of the very talented, Rachel Burton.
I loved Julia and Edwin, and their slow burn romance, but in truth, the whole cast of characters need to be applauded. They are so well thought through and represented. The towel flicking Marco, what a hoot! Rob and his charming cheekiness! Jonny who just makes me picture the most pristine butler ever! Pen & Graeme and their fabulous friendship. Her mother - Oh, how I adored her!!
I also loved the way Julia’s father plays such a huge role in the book, through his letters that are cleverly interwoven, and the way the story goes full circle. It’s a tale of forgiveness, of being able to move on and to live your life without fear.
The ending is...gah, I’m not going to spoil it for anyone, but trust me, it’s perfect and I did cry over those last words ❤️
I highly recommend to anyone wanting a read that is so very evocative, nostalgic and full of charm.
I loved Julia and Edwin, and their slow burn romance, but in truth, the whole cast of characters need to be applauded. They are so well thought through and represented. The towel flicking Marco, what a hoot! Rob and his charming cheekiness! Jonny who just makes me picture the most pristine butler ever! Pen & Graeme and their fabulous friendship. Her mother - Oh, how I adored her!!
I also loved the way Julia’s father plays such a huge role in the book, through his letters that are cleverly interwoven, and the way the story goes full circle. It’s a tale of forgiveness, of being able to move on and to live your life without fear.
The ending is...gah, I’m not going to spoil it for anyone, but trust me, it’s perfect and I did cry over those last words ❤️
I highly recommend to anyone wanting a read that is so very evocative, nostalgic and full of charm.
July 8, 2017
This is a book I think I was meant to read. I almost never buy books by authors unfamiliar to me unless they come highly recommended by a trusted source. I bought this one based solely on the blurb, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters were skillfully drawn, and the story was compelling. The romance between Julia and Edwin with its slow and persuasive development was the perfect antidote for an overdose of lust-driven contemporary romance, and two other romances--with a hint of another--was a terrific bonus. This is Burton's debut novel. I'll definitely look for her sophomore book.
August 19, 2017
The Many Colours of Us is a fast paced story with great characters. I loved how the secrets played out and kept you guessing. The family dynamics were true to life. You usually love your family members but you don't always agree with their actions. I wish you as good a time reading this as I had.
November 9, 2017
I loved this book. A story of family secrets, regret and a journey of self discovery. I loved the character of Julia, she’s someone who I want to go have coffee with. Her situation at the start is intriguing; inheriting millions from a father she didn’t know and being dumped by her boyfriend of 10 years. What a start! Then everything unravels. Family secrets start emerging and so too do heart breaking letters from her late father. Can I just say Julia’s mother is the most selfish character ever! I felt so sorry for Julia and her father’s heartbreak within these letters made me reach for the tissues. Loved the romance although it was frustrating and kept me reading. Frustrating in the sense of there were lots of ‘will they kiss?’ moments. A fab read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2017
A young girl learns of a father she never knew.
It was interesting to read as Julia reads the letters her Father wrote each year and transforms her outlook on life and love , realizing that life is what we make of it to always look forward
It was interesting to read as Julia reads the letters her Father wrote each year and transforms her outlook on life and love , realizing that life is what we make of it to always look forward
August 27, 2017
Mistakes people make
Mistakes people make is a short sentence that describes this this story. Mistakes that Julia makes and particularly mistakes her father made but it all works out in a lovely way
Mistakes people make is a short sentence that describes this this story. Mistakes that Julia makes and particularly mistakes her father made but it all works out in a lovely way
July 1, 2017
We regret most the things we didn't do
We regret most the things we didn't do because we lacked the courage to acknowledge our fears and act anyway. This book is about regrets, the kind of regrets that are final and can never be undone, fixed, or otherwise remedied, and how a person who is the subject of so many regrets learns to forgive and move forward with her life. A good read with complex, likable characters and a premise that doesn't strain credulity too far.
We regret most the things we didn't do because we lacked the courage to acknowledge our fears and act anyway. This book is about regrets, the kind of regrets that are final and can never be undone, fixed, or otherwise remedied, and how a person who is the subject of so many regrets learns to forgive and move forward with her life. A good read with complex, likable characters and a premise that doesn't strain credulity too far.
July 3, 2017
Optimistic view of life in a delightful story. Great book for a beach read.
July 21, 2017
This book takes place mostly in London and is written by a British author. I had to get past the unusual spelling of certain words but loved the British expressions throughout. The plot definitely held my interest. It's an enjoyable read.
August 11, 2017
Daughters need their father's to understand how to navigate in the world.
Julia goes through life not knowing who her father is until a letter arrives from a lawyer in London. Fireworks.
Julia goes through life not knowing who her father is until a letter arrives from a lawyer in London. Fireworks.
August 28, 2019
Julia Simmonds did not know her father.
Her mother the well known model Philadelphia Simmonds has always refused to say who he was. She maintained they didn't need him.
But when Julia has just turned thirty, she is sent a summons to a lawyer's officers to be informed that her father has died.
A father it turns out the whole world knew as he was renown artist Bruce Baldwin.
Her father the man is turns out she may well have met at some point in her childhood.
A father who has left her a fortune and a legacy.
Her father also left her letters - that he wrote to Julia on her birthday every year up until she was eighteen - this is the first time she has even seen them.
Julia's life is turned upside down, who was this man, what did he have to say to her and more importantly what does all this information mean to Julia.
A wonderfully created story which also includes the letters that were written by Julia's father interspersed as she finds out more about him, the relationship with her mother and how the future could possibly be not as disastrous as she first thought.
The emotions rock from happiness to sadness and you are taken as a reader along the journey of discovery and you feel every emotion as well - I certainly did. Clearly written so well for that to happen.
This was a read which you need to take time with, to appreciate everything about it but also know that you will devour it in a few sittings.
I seek out the books she has published since this debut, which I have been late coming to.
Her mother the well known model Philadelphia Simmonds has always refused to say who he was. She maintained they didn't need him.
But when Julia has just turned thirty, she is sent a summons to a lawyer's officers to be informed that her father has died.
A father it turns out the whole world knew as he was renown artist Bruce Baldwin.
Her father the man is turns out she may well have met at some point in her childhood.
A father who has left her a fortune and a legacy.
Her father also left her letters - that he wrote to Julia on her birthday every year up until she was eighteen - this is the first time she has even seen them.
Julia's life is turned upside down, who was this man, what did he have to say to her and more importantly what does all this information mean to Julia.
A wonderfully created story which also includes the letters that were written by Julia's father interspersed as she finds out more about him, the relationship with her mother and how the future could possibly be not as disastrous as she first thought.
The emotions rock from happiness to sadness and you are taken as a reader along the journey of discovery and you feel every emotion as well - I certainly did. Clearly written so well for that to happen.
This was a read which you need to take time with, to appreciate everything about it but also know that you will devour it in a few sittings.
I seek out the books she has published since this debut, which I have been late coming to.
June 28, 2017
This book was beautifully written. As both an author and a reader, I admired Rachel's unique voice, clear in the first-person narrative of her debut. It is elevated by the emotional plot of the book about a heroine rediscovering herself after finding out the identity of her father. The love story is also wistful and hopeful. I recommend this book for lovers of emotional and heartfelt stories.
July 19, 2017
Really enjoyed this book. Good writing, interesting story and good characters. Couldn't put it down!
July 29, 2024
Lovely engaging read - perfect for the summer holidays.
April 12, 2018
I enjoyed the book. People think they have complicated lives, then you find a book & you wonder how anyone lives through all of it. There is a lot of forgiving that has to go on in this book. Finding out that your Mother has been lying to you for the last 30 years & all the people close to her have also been lying to you. It is a progression of forgiveness & letting the past go.
August 3, 2017
It was a really good book, and a quick read.I liked that she didn't let the money change who she was
August 29, 2017
Heart-thumpingly emotional and full of hope!
Julia Simmonds is stunned to discover that her late father was a renowned artist, and when she finds out that he’s left everything to her in his will, her world is turned on its head. As if having a supermodel for a mother wasn’t confusing enough, now she has to try to get to know a man she knows only from his letters, and one enduring childhood memory. Throw in the brooding family lawyer, who has more than just a business connection to Julia’s late father Bruce Baldwin, and this is a novel that will hook you from page one.
I found this novel, the debut by Rachel Burton, hugely compelling for a number of reasons. I think the thing that stood out the most for me was the contrast between Julia, who is still struggling to find her direction at the start of the novel, and her glamorous, rackety parents, whose relationship permeates and underpins the emotions in the novel. Even though we never actually meet Bruce Baldwin, Julia’s late father, in person, his presence is so strong in the novel. The letters that bookend the chapters give us an insight into a man who spent his life producing wonderful art but fighting his own demons; a man who could be creatively successful but emotionally distant, and a man who died without knowing the daughter he so loved and used, as Burton puts it as ‘a muse in absentia’. Similarly, Julia’s mother Philadelphia absents herself for the first few chapters, once the bombshell of Bruce’s death is dropped, and we rely on Julia to paint a picture of this complex, stunningly beautiful but rather difficult woman, for us.
So, there is a multi layered family setup, and from the first page, the reader can feel the tension and emotion. And that’s even before we properly meet Edwin Jones, the family solicitor! Tall, dark, brooding, and with layers and conflicts of his own, Edwin needs to be healed as much as he finds himself needing to heal Julia. Together they try to create an enduring legacy for Julia’s father, but there is a beautiful tension between them, not least because Edwin knew Bruce Baldwin well for a time before his death, whereas Julia only ever met him once. Edwin’s guilt over this, and the fact that he was bound by professional ethics not to disclose Bruce’s identity to Julia, combined with the sizzling chemistry between them has the reader rooting for them with every twist and turn. Their story is expertly told by Burton, and there are quite a few ‘catch your breath’ moments along the way; a moment in the Tate springs to mind, as does a late night in Hyde Park and the emotionally searing aftermath of the news of Julia’s parentage going horrifically public. I could picture so many scenes so vividly, thanks to Burton’s feather light touch and great ear for dialogue, which flows naturally, is never stilted and carries the narrative forward in an emotionally charged but never mawkish way. Burton’s expert use of the supporting cast to flesh out the motivations and emotions of the main characters was also fantastic and left me wanting to spend more time with them, especially Rob, Edwin’s brother, and feisty Pen!
By the time I was approaching the end of this novel, I was so invested in the characters that I was desperate for it all to end well. I have lived in their world for the two days it took me to read the book (I did say it was a page turner!), and I can’t wait to read the next novel by Rachel Burton. This was such a beautiful, elegant, heart-thumpingly emotional debut novel, that quivers with emotion on every page, and I loved every minute of it.
Julia Simmonds is stunned to discover that her late father was a renowned artist, and when she finds out that he’s left everything to her in his will, her world is turned on its head. As if having a supermodel for a mother wasn’t confusing enough, now she has to try to get to know a man she knows only from his letters, and one enduring childhood memory. Throw in the brooding family lawyer, who has more than just a business connection to Julia’s late father Bruce Baldwin, and this is a novel that will hook you from page one.
I found this novel, the debut by Rachel Burton, hugely compelling for a number of reasons. I think the thing that stood out the most for me was the contrast between Julia, who is still struggling to find her direction at the start of the novel, and her glamorous, rackety parents, whose relationship permeates and underpins the emotions in the novel. Even though we never actually meet Bruce Baldwin, Julia’s late father, in person, his presence is so strong in the novel. The letters that bookend the chapters give us an insight into a man who spent his life producing wonderful art but fighting his own demons; a man who could be creatively successful but emotionally distant, and a man who died without knowing the daughter he so loved and used, as Burton puts it as ‘a muse in absentia’. Similarly, Julia’s mother Philadelphia absents herself for the first few chapters, once the bombshell of Bruce’s death is dropped, and we rely on Julia to paint a picture of this complex, stunningly beautiful but rather difficult woman, for us.
So, there is a multi layered family setup, and from the first page, the reader can feel the tension and emotion. And that’s even before we properly meet Edwin Jones, the family solicitor! Tall, dark, brooding, and with layers and conflicts of his own, Edwin needs to be healed as much as he finds himself needing to heal Julia. Together they try to create an enduring legacy for Julia’s father, but there is a beautiful tension between them, not least because Edwin knew Bruce Baldwin well for a time before his death, whereas Julia only ever met him once. Edwin’s guilt over this, and the fact that he was bound by professional ethics not to disclose Bruce’s identity to Julia, combined with the sizzling chemistry between them has the reader rooting for them with every twist and turn. Their story is expertly told by Burton, and there are quite a few ‘catch your breath’ moments along the way; a moment in the Tate springs to mind, as does a late night in Hyde Park and the emotionally searing aftermath of the news of Julia’s parentage going horrifically public. I could picture so many scenes so vividly, thanks to Burton’s feather light touch and great ear for dialogue, which flows naturally, is never stilted and carries the narrative forward in an emotionally charged but never mawkish way. Burton’s expert use of the supporting cast to flesh out the motivations and emotions of the main characters was also fantastic and left me wanting to spend more time with them, especially Rob, Edwin’s brother, and feisty Pen!
By the time I was approaching the end of this novel, I was so invested in the characters that I was desperate for it all to end well. I have lived in their world for the two days it took me to read the book (I did say it was a page turner!), and I can’t wait to read the next novel by Rachel Burton. This was such a beautiful, elegant, heart-thumpingly emotional debut novel, that quivers with emotion on every page, and I loved every minute of it.
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