What do you think?
Rate this book
The Love Letter
From the internationally bestselling author of The Olive Tree comes a thrilling novel full of secrets, lies and unforgettable twists...
1995, London.
When Sir James Harrison, one the greatest actors of his generation, passes away at the age of ninety-five he leaves behind not just a heartbroken family and a wealth of memorabilia from his long career but also a secret so shocking, so devastating that it could change everything…
Joanna Haslam is an ambitious young journalist, assigned to cover the legendary actor's funeral. The great and the good of the celebrity world will be there. But Joanna stumbles on something dark beneath the glamour: the mention of a letter Harrison has left behind, the contents of which he was desperate to conceal. As she gets closer to tracking down the source, she realises that there are other very interested parties. And they'll stop at nothing to reach the letter before she does.
This title was originally published as Seeing Double.
1995, London.
When Sir James Harrison, one the greatest actors of his generation, passes away at the age of ninety-five he leaves behind not just a heartbroken family and a wealth of memorabilia from his long career but also a secret so shocking, so devastating that it could change everything…
Joanna Haslam is an ambitious young journalist, assigned to cover the legendary actor's funeral. The great and the good of the celebrity world will be there. But Joanna stumbles on something dark beneath the glamour: the mention of a letter Harrison has left behind, the contents of which he was desperate to conceal. As she gets closer to tracking down the source, she realises that there are other very interested parties. And they'll stop at nothing to reach the letter before she does.
This title was originally published as Seeing Double.
590 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2019
3775 people are currently reading
15095 people want to read
About the author
Lucinda Riley
160 books11.9k followersAKA: Lucinda Edmonds
Lucinda Riley was born in Northern Ireland, and after an early career as an actress in film, theatre and television, wrote her first book aged twenty-four. Her books have been translated into thirty-seven languages and sold thirty million copies worldwide. She is a No.1 Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller.
Lucinda’s The Seven Sisters series, which tells the story of adopted sisters and is inspired by the mythology of the famous star cluster, has become a global phenomenon. The series is a No.1 bestseller across the world with total sales of over fifteen million copies.
Lucinda and her family divided their time between the U.K. and a farmhouse in West Cork, Ireland, where she wrote her books.
Lucinda Riley was born in Northern Ireland, and after an early career as an actress in film, theatre and television, wrote her first book aged twenty-four. Her books have been translated into thirty-seven languages and sold thirty million copies worldwide. She is a No.1 Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller.
Lucinda’s The Seven Sisters series, which tells the story of adopted sisters and is inspired by the mythology of the famous star cluster, has become a global phenomenon. The series is a No.1 bestseller across the world with total sales of over fifteen million copies.
Lucinda and her family divided their time between the U.K. and a farmhouse in West Cork, Ireland, where she wrote her books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,088 reviews
July 12, 2018
I found this espionage mystery by Lucinda Riley a bit a mixed bag of an uneven read. At the grand old age of 95, Sir James Harrison, a celebrated actor, dies leaving behind a heartbroken family, none more so than his beloved granddaughter, Zoe, single mother and up coming actress. For Zoe, James was more of a father than her actual famous actor father, Charles. Her brother, Marcus, an aspiring film producer has endured career flop after flop, constantly being financially rescued by his father and looking for a large sum of money to financially back his latest project that he is sure will turn his fortunes around. An ill and heartbroken Joanna Haslam, an ambitious tabloid journalist, rises from her sick bed to cover Sir James funeral, attended by famous celebrities. To Jo's dismay, an elderly woman, Rose, sitting next to her takes a turn for the worse, so she accompanies her home. Rose dies but a letter from her has Jo delving into secrets from the past that promises an exclusive that could make her career and shatter the establishment. It also places Jo's life and those of others in danger.
For a while, I thought this novel wasn't for me, but I found my interest engaged after more than a third of the way through. However, the meandering story and plot got too messy occasionally, making for a less than clear narrative. Zoe has a past and secrets in the present that echo what happened earlier with her grandfather. The intelligence services are all over the Harrisons and Jo, determined to prevent the leakages that threaten a nation, willing to eliminate all threats as we see from the rising tide of dead bodies but also having to cope with a rogue agent. Simon, Jo's best friend from Yorkshire, finds himself facing personal and professional quandries that challenge his friendship with Jo. In this intricately plotted tale with twists, a story of lies, deception, love, loss and secrets, Jo is going to need all her wits about her if she is to survive. I found this to be an uneven and a confusion of a novel, but enjoyed it overall though. Many thanks to Pan Macmillan for an ARC.
For a while, I thought this novel wasn't for me, but I found my interest engaged after more than a third of the way through. However, the meandering story and plot got too messy occasionally, making for a less than clear narrative. Zoe has a past and secrets in the present that echo what happened earlier with her grandfather. The intelligence services are all over the Harrisons and Jo, determined to prevent the leakages that threaten a nation, willing to eliminate all threats as we see from the rising tide of dead bodies but also having to cope with a rogue agent. Simon, Jo's best friend from Yorkshire, finds himself facing personal and professional quandries that challenge his friendship with Jo. In this intricately plotted tale with twists, a story of lies, deception, love, loss and secrets, Jo is going to need all her wits about her if she is to survive. I found this to be an uneven and a confusion of a novel, but enjoyed it overall though. Many thanks to Pan Macmillan for an ARC.
September 24, 2019
The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley was a story of a secret so important that it had to stay out of the public eye at all costs. An historical novel that had it all, action, adventure, romance and danger.
Joanna Haslam a junior reporter is sent to write a report on the funeral of the actor Sir James Harrison. At the church she meets an old lady who passes her information than will eventually lead to a shocking discovery.
I really enjoyed this book all seven hundred pages. The characters were excellent and the story had me hooked from the beginning and I did not want to put it down.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Joanna Haslam a junior reporter is sent to write a report on the funeral of the actor Sir James Harrison. At the church she meets an old lady who passes her information than will eventually lead to a shocking discovery.
I really enjoyed this book all seven hundred pages. The characters were excellent and the story had me hooked from the beginning and I did not want to put it down.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2023
EXCERPT: It was the morphine turning his brain to jelly. Tomorrow he'd have none, and then he'd remember what it was he must do before he died.
'Okay. You just relax and try to get some sleep,' she soothed him, her hand stroking his forehead. 'The doctor will be here soon.'
He knew he mustn't go to sleep. He closed his eyes, desperately searching, searching . . . snatches of memories, faces . . .
Then he saw her, as clear as the day he'd first met her. So beautiful, so gentle . . .
'Remember? The letter, my darling,' she whispered to him. 'You promised to return it . . .'
ABOUT 'THE LOVE LETTER': 1995, London. When Sir James Harrison, one the greatest actors of his generation, passes away at the age of 95 he leaves behind not just a heartbroken family but also a secret so shocking, so devastating that it could rock the English establishment to its core.
Joanna Haslam is an ambitious young journalist assigned to cover the legendary actor's funeral. The great and the good of the celebrity world are there.
But Joanna stumbles on something dark beneath the glamour: the mention of a letter James Harrison has left behind, the contents of which others have been desperate to conceal for over 70 years.
As she peels back the veil of lies that has shrouded the secret, she realizes that there are other forces attempting to prevent her from discovering the truth. And they'll stop at nothing to reach the letter before she does.
MY THOUGHTS: The Love Letter took a bit more for me to become fully immersed in than is normal for this author. At first I thought the storyline very similar to The Angel Tree, which I had just finished. But then the story took a turn that I wasn't expecting, and everything changed.
The Love Letter is a sweeping novel that encompasses secrets, murder, treachery, love, lies, and questions of identity and loyalty spread over two timelines - the period immediately before and after George VI coming to the throne, and 1995 when actor Sir James Harrison dies without fulfilling a promise he had made many years earlier.
A blend of thriller, drama and romance involving MI5, the royal family, an acting dynasty and a young investigative reporter eager to make a name for herself, Lucinda Riley seems to have added a new dimension to her writing with the Love Letter, not entirely successfully in my honest opinion.
The narrative doesn't flow as smoothly as it should and I had some problems with the ending where I was required to suspend my belief and just go with the flow. It then finishes on a bit of a cliffhanger which, in this case, I enjoyed.
Despite my reservations regarding the choppy nature of the narrative at times, I did enjoy this read, although not to the same extent as other titles I have read by Riley. The Butterfly Room remains a clear favourite.
Camilla Rockley is a superb narrator. I don't think this particular cover does the book justice.
⭐⭐⭐.7
#TheLoveLetter #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
I: @lucindarileybooks @wfhowes
T: @lucindariley @WFHowes
#historicalfiction #mystery #romance #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Lucinda Riley is an Irish author of popular historical fiction and a former actress. She spent the first few years of her life in the village of Drumbeg near Belfast before moving to England. At age 14 she moved to London to a specialist drama and ballet school. She wrote her first book aged twenty four. Lucinda died in June 2021.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Waitomo District Library for the loan of the audiobook The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon,Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Okay. You just relax and try to get some sleep,' she soothed him, her hand stroking his forehead. 'The doctor will be here soon.'
He knew he mustn't go to sleep. He closed his eyes, desperately searching, searching . . . snatches of memories, faces . . .
Then he saw her, as clear as the day he'd first met her. So beautiful, so gentle . . .
'Remember? The letter, my darling,' she whispered to him. 'You promised to return it . . .'
ABOUT 'THE LOVE LETTER': 1995, London. When Sir James Harrison, one the greatest actors of his generation, passes away at the age of 95 he leaves behind not just a heartbroken family but also a secret so shocking, so devastating that it could rock the English establishment to its core.
Joanna Haslam is an ambitious young journalist assigned to cover the legendary actor's funeral. The great and the good of the celebrity world are there.
But Joanna stumbles on something dark beneath the glamour: the mention of a letter James Harrison has left behind, the contents of which others have been desperate to conceal for over 70 years.
As she peels back the veil of lies that has shrouded the secret, she realizes that there are other forces attempting to prevent her from discovering the truth. And they'll stop at nothing to reach the letter before she does.
MY THOUGHTS: The Love Letter took a bit more for me to become fully immersed in than is normal for this author. At first I thought the storyline very similar to The Angel Tree, which I had just finished. But then the story took a turn that I wasn't expecting, and everything changed.
The Love Letter is a sweeping novel that encompasses secrets, murder, treachery, love, lies, and questions of identity and loyalty spread over two timelines - the period immediately before and after George VI coming to the throne, and 1995 when actor Sir James Harrison dies without fulfilling a promise he had made many years earlier.
A blend of thriller, drama and romance involving MI5, the royal family, an acting dynasty and a young investigative reporter eager to make a name for herself, Lucinda Riley seems to have added a new dimension to her writing with the Love Letter, not entirely successfully in my honest opinion.
The narrative doesn't flow as smoothly as it should and I had some problems with the ending where I was required to suspend my belief and just go with the flow. It then finishes on a bit of a cliffhanger which, in this case, I enjoyed.
Despite my reservations regarding the choppy nature of the narrative at times, I did enjoy this read, although not to the same extent as other titles I have read by Riley. The Butterfly Room remains a clear favourite.
Camilla Rockley is a superb narrator. I don't think this particular cover does the book justice.
⭐⭐⭐.7
#TheLoveLetter #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
I: @lucindarileybooks @wfhowes
T: @lucindariley @WFHowes
#historicalfiction #mystery #romance #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Lucinda Riley is an Irish author of popular historical fiction and a former actress. She spent the first few years of her life in the village of Drumbeg near Belfast before moving to England. At age 14 she moved to London to a specialist drama and ballet school. She wrote her first book aged twenty four. Lucinda died in June 2021.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Waitomo District Library for the loan of the audiobook The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon,Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
August 23, 2023
I can honestly say this is one of the BEST books I have EVER read!!!
Lucinda Riley never ceases to amaze me! There is not one book of her’s that I have not loved and The Love Letter was no exception. From page one this book had me captivated and I just knew I was on to a winner…
And just when I thought Riley’s books couldn’t get any better, this one comes along! I was somehow under the impression that Riley had only written one mystery novel but to me this was more exciting and suspenseful than The Murders at Fleat House! I can already tell this is a story I will remember for a long time.
I absolutely adored the characters in this book. Zoe, Marcus and Joanna being my favourites but really the whole cast was an incredible mix of personalities. What was most interesting was seeing how various characters developed through the course of the book…some for better and some for worse 🤐
The story line, in my opinion, was faultless. It had so many twists and turns and around the half way mark it becomes a very fast-paced read! There was (LOTS!!) danger and mystery but also a lot of love in many forms. It was the perfect balance and such a unique story, as all of Riley’s books are!
And the end….MINDBLOWING!!!! 🤯
Lucinda Riley never ceases to amaze me! There is not one book of her’s that I have not loved and The Love Letter was no exception. From page one this book had me captivated and I just knew I was on to a winner…
And just when I thought Riley’s books couldn’t get any better, this one comes along! I was somehow under the impression that Riley had only written one mystery novel but to me this was more exciting and suspenseful than The Murders at Fleat House! I can already tell this is a story I will remember for a long time.
I absolutely adored the characters in this book. Zoe, Marcus and Joanna being my favourites but really the whole cast was an incredible mix of personalities. What was most interesting was seeing how various characters developed through the course of the book…some for better and some for worse 🤐
The story line, in my opinion, was faultless. It had so many twists and turns and around the half way mark it becomes a very fast-paced read! There was (LOTS!!) danger and mystery but also a lot of love in many forms. It was the perfect balance and such a unique story, as all of Riley’s books are!
And the end….MINDBLOWING!!!! 🤯
December 26, 2020
4,5 Sterne
Ich weiß gar nicht was ich zu diesem Buch sagen soll... Ich hatte ja mit vielem gerechnet, aber nicht mit dem, was ich hier bekommen habe. Bisher kenne ich nur die Sieben-Schwestern-Reihe der Autorin (und mag sie auch sehr!), aber das hier war was ganz anderes.
Erwartet hatte ich einen Roman über ein Familiengeheimnis, bekommen habe ich aber einen so krass spannenden Roman! Ich habe immer direkt mehrere hundert Seiten am Stück gelesen, weil ich das Buch einfach nicht aus der Hand legen konnte. Gestern habe ich die letzten 300 Seiten am Stück gelesen und musste das Buch nachts um halb zwei noch beenden, weil ich einfach wissen musste wie es ausgeht.
Das einzige was mich nicht zu 100% überzeugen konnte war das Ende, auch wenn ich die Auflösung echt gelungen fand. Ein paar Prämissen/Ergebnisse waren mir dann doch etwas zu drüber.
Ansonsten muss ich echt meinen Hut vor Lucinda Riley ziehen, da sie es meisterhaft geschafft hat den Leser immer wieder im Dunkeln zu lassen und es gab für mich unendlich viele unvorhersehbare Plottwists. Auch die Gefühle blieben hier nicht zu kurz und ich konnte mit allen Charakteren total mitfühlen und mitfiebern.
Ich fand dieses Buch wirklich einfach nur grandios! Gerade weil ich nicht mit einer so spannenden Geschichte gerechnet hatte!
Ich weiß gar nicht was ich zu diesem Buch sagen soll... Ich hatte ja mit vielem gerechnet, aber nicht mit dem, was ich hier bekommen habe. Bisher kenne ich nur die Sieben-Schwestern-Reihe der Autorin (und mag sie auch sehr!), aber das hier war was ganz anderes.
Erwartet hatte ich einen Roman über ein Familiengeheimnis, bekommen habe ich aber einen so krass spannenden Roman! Ich habe immer direkt mehrere hundert Seiten am Stück gelesen, weil ich das Buch einfach nicht aus der Hand legen konnte. Gestern habe ich die letzten 300 Seiten am Stück gelesen und musste das Buch nachts um halb zwei noch beenden, weil ich einfach wissen musste wie es ausgeht.
Das einzige was mich nicht zu 100% überzeugen konnte war das Ende, auch wenn ich die Auflösung echt gelungen fand. Ein paar Prämissen/Ergebnisse waren mir dann doch etwas zu drüber.
Ansonsten muss ich echt meinen Hut vor Lucinda Riley ziehen, da sie es meisterhaft geschafft hat den Leser immer wieder im Dunkeln zu lassen und es gab für mich unendlich viele unvorhersehbare Plottwists. Auch die Gefühle blieben hier nicht zu kurz und ich konnte mit allen Charakteren total mitfühlen und mitfiebern.
Ich fand dieses Buch wirklich einfach nur grandios! Gerade weil ich nicht mit einer so spannenden Geschichte gerechnet hatte!
November 21, 2021
The plot is wildly convoluted and improbable. The characters...many of whom apparently aspire to be James Bond...are unbelievable as well as unlikeable. In spite of that there is something about it that keeps the reader staying with it. Maybe it's the assumption and unfounded hope, that it just HAS to get better at some point. After all, it is Lucinda Riley, who is a wonderful author that has been responsible of a number of books that I have really enjoyed. This book was very wordy and oh so frustrating. The plot intricacies got in the way of showing relationships actually develop, making the character motivation feeling rushed. Ms. Riley didn't even attempt to tie in some aspects of the mystery. It was for a challenge so it did serve a purpose,
September 29, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
The Love Letter is the latest historical crossed with romance and thriller elements from saga queen Lucinda Riley. Originally published in 1998, as Seeing Double, it received fairly mediocre reception twenty years ago. Conditions of the time and the main storyline crux, which is closely linked to the British monarchy, contributed to this book’s downfall. Now, twenty years later and due to the success of The Seven Sisters series, along with seven other well received saga novels, Lucinda Riley has provided The Love Letter (aka Seeing Double) with another chance.
The Love Letter opens in London, in 1995. The world has just lost one of its finest and most enduring actors, the late Sir James Harrison. Sir James’ death leaves his family with a broken heart and it marks the revelation of a shocking secret that has links to the royal family. Involved in the revelation of this secret is an ambitious young journalist, Joanna Haslam. When Joanna is tasked to cover the funeral of Sir James Harrison, she discovers the existence of a letter, penned by the late actor. This letter and the contents inside has the power to shake those at the very top of the establishment, as well as those close to Sir James. As Joanna becomes more and more determined to set the contents of the letter right, her life suddenly comes under fire. Will the love letter destroy Joanna?
I consider myself a big fan of Lucinda Riley, I tuned to her work when I had read all of Kate Morton’s work and I was looking for a similar style author. After years of closely following Riley’s work, especially The Seven Sisters series, The Love Letter filled my Riley gap while I sit waiting for The Moon Sister, which is the next chapter in The Seven Sisters series.
Reading the opening author’s note was rather enlightening. The Love Letter has had an interesting road to publication and re-publication. Originally published as Seeing Double in 1998, it seems this novel did not receive a great first reaction from readers and publishers alike. Riley uses the climate at the time in Britain and the themes of the book, which are closely tied to the monarchy. I can see this as being an issue, as I did live in the UK at this very point in time. There was no confidence in the monarchy and public opinion was at an all time low, following the tragic death of the Princess Diana. Riley has patiently sat on her novel and has now re-released her book to a very different audience and perhaps a more receptive climate. The popularity of the modern royals, the release of the award winning Crown series and the time that has passed since Princess Diana’s death may help to re-energize The Love Letter.
There are some great themes covered in The Love Letter from espionage, to intrigue, history, drama and romance. There are links to the monarchy, media and MI5, along with ties to the entertainment world. The Love Letter will be sure to capture the hearts and minds of many readers due to the broad themes. I believe it will particularly appeal to fans of the royal family.
Riley has composed a great character set. Joanna was a standout. Riley does an excellent job of outlining Joanna’s journey, which covers her career, friendships, love life and her key involvement in exposing the truth behind the love letter. Joanna is joined by a set cast of well defined individuals, from Zoe, to Simon and Marcus. There is not much I can fault by way of characterisation. Riley also manages to balance good and bad figures throughout the proceedings of her novel.
Setting is always Riley’s strength. In all of her novels the setting has a strong presence. The Love Letter is situated mainly in London in 1995. This is a time and place I know very well and I thought Riley nailed it. A sense of nostalgia washed over me as I read this novel. I really enjoyed the historical moments that were delicately woven through this set piece.
It was interesting to see Lucinda Riley take on quite a different format with The Love Letter. There is much more of an emphasis on action, thrills, adventure, espionage and deceit. It marks a different direction for Lucinda Riley and I enjoyed it very much. Who would have thought that the contents of a letter written seventy years ago would be so explosive! Lucinda Riley lets us know. And the ending? Well, it was tied up neatly, but for me it was just a touch too unbelievable !
The Love Letter is a saga indeed, at almost 600 pages long, it will consume you. It is full of romance, secrets, lies, treachery, betrayals, twists, turns, unexpected revelations and a good old historical mystery. I’m sure this response to The Love Letter won’t surprise you, I will be back for more of Riley’s work and I recommend The Love Letter to all readers.
The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley was published on 31st July 2018 by Pan Macmillan. Details on how to purchase the book can be found here.
*I wish to thank Pan Macmillan for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
*Book ‘R’ of the a-z author challenge 2018
The Love Letter is the latest historical crossed with romance and thriller elements from saga queen Lucinda Riley. Originally published in 1998, as Seeing Double, it received fairly mediocre reception twenty years ago. Conditions of the time and the main storyline crux, which is closely linked to the British monarchy, contributed to this book’s downfall. Now, twenty years later and due to the success of The Seven Sisters series, along with seven other well received saga novels, Lucinda Riley has provided The Love Letter (aka Seeing Double) with another chance.
The Love Letter opens in London, in 1995. The world has just lost one of its finest and most enduring actors, the late Sir James Harrison. Sir James’ death leaves his family with a broken heart and it marks the revelation of a shocking secret that has links to the royal family. Involved in the revelation of this secret is an ambitious young journalist, Joanna Haslam. When Joanna is tasked to cover the funeral of Sir James Harrison, she discovers the existence of a letter, penned by the late actor. This letter and the contents inside has the power to shake those at the very top of the establishment, as well as those close to Sir James. As Joanna becomes more and more determined to set the contents of the letter right, her life suddenly comes under fire. Will the love letter destroy Joanna?
I consider myself a big fan of Lucinda Riley, I tuned to her work when I had read all of Kate Morton’s work and I was looking for a similar style author. After years of closely following Riley’s work, especially The Seven Sisters series, The Love Letter filled my Riley gap while I sit waiting for The Moon Sister, which is the next chapter in The Seven Sisters series.
Reading the opening author’s note was rather enlightening. The Love Letter has had an interesting road to publication and re-publication. Originally published as Seeing Double in 1998, it seems this novel did not receive a great first reaction from readers and publishers alike. Riley uses the climate at the time in Britain and the themes of the book, which are closely tied to the monarchy. I can see this as being an issue, as I did live in the UK at this very point in time. There was no confidence in the monarchy and public opinion was at an all time low, following the tragic death of the Princess Diana. Riley has patiently sat on her novel and has now re-released her book to a very different audience and perhaps a more receptive climate. The popularity of the modern royals, the release of the award winning Crown series and the time that has passed since Princess Diana’s death may help to re-energize The Love Letter.
There are some great themes covered in The Love Letter from espionage, to intrigue, history, drama and romance. There are links to the monarchy, media and MI5, along with ties to the entertainment world. The Love Letter will be sure to capture the hearts and minds of many readers due to the broad themes. I believe it will particularly appeal to fans of the royal family.
Riley has composed a great character set. Joanna was a standout. Riley does an excellent job of outlining Joanna’s journey, which covers her career, friendships, love life and her key involvement in exposing the truth behind the love letter. Joanna is joined by a set cast of well defined individuals, from Zoe, to Simon and Marcus. There is not much I can fault by way of characterisation. Riley also manages to balance good and bad figures throughout the proceedings of her novel.
Setting is always Riley’s strength. In all of her novels the setting has a strong presence. The Love Letter is situated mainly in London in 1995. This is a time and place I know very well and I thought Riley nailed it. A sense of nostalgia washed over me as I read this novel. I really enjoyed the historical moments that were delicately woven through this set piece.
It was interesting to see Lucinda Riley take on quite a different format with The Love Letter. There is much more of an emphasis on action, thrills, adventure, espionage and deceit. It marks a different direction for Lucinda Riley and I enjoyed it very much. Who would have thought that the contents of a letter written seventy years ago would be so explosive! Lucinda Riley lets us know. And the ending? Well, it was tied up neatly, but for me it was just a touch too unbelievable !
The Love Letter is a saga indeed, at almost 600 pages long, it will consume you. It is full of romance, secrets, lies, treachery, betrayals, twists, turns, unexpected revelations and a good old historical mystery. I’m sure this response to The Love Letter won’t surprise you, I will be back for more of Riley’s work and I recommend The Love Letter to all readers.
The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley was published on 31st July 2018 by Pan Macmillan. Details on how to purchase the book can be found here.
*I wish to thank Pan Macmillan for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
*Book ‘R’ of the a-z author challenge 2018
June 3, 2019
2 stars! ⭐️⭐️
Sigh. This is going to be brief.
I absolutely adore Riley’s Seven Sisters series. So, when I saw The Royal Secret on NetGalley, I really wanted to read it. The premise was great and - let’s face it - the title is super intriguing! Sadly, this book did not meet my expectations. I found it to be super slow, boring at times, too long and a chore to read. I just didn’t get it. Trying to keep up with all of the characters just added to my confusion.
This was the first standalone novel I’ve read by this author. Although it was not enjoyable, I plan on reading some of her other books because I’ve heard they are very good.
Thanks to NetGalley, Atria Books and Lucinda Riley for my advanced copy to read and review.
Sigh. This is going to be brief.
I absolutely adore Riley’s Seven Sisters series. So, when I saw The Royal Secret on NetGalley, I really wanted to read it. The premise was great and - let’s face it - the title is super intriguing! Sadly, this book did not meet my expectations. I found it to be super slow, boring at times, too long and a chore to read. I just didn’t get it. Trying to keep up with all of the characters just added to my confusion.
This was the first standalone novel I’ve read by this author. Although it was not enjoyable, I plan on reading some of her other books because I’ve heard they are very good.
Thanks to NetGalley, Atria Books and Lucinda Riley for my advanced copy to read and review.
July 8, 2020
Originally published as The Love Letter this was just a good mystery mixed with some royal family intrigue that kept me captivated. Although a little too long, this had the makings of a good limited series on Netflix or Prime.
Goodreads review published 08/07/20
Goodreads review published 08/07/20
July 25, 2020
This was my first Lucinda Riley book, and I really enjoyed it. You definitely have to take into account that it was written over 20 years ago and rereleased. It could have used some editing (it didn't need to be 500 pages to tell this story), but I ended up really liking it. I'll definitely read more of her books in the future.
December 8, 2017
Ooookay, das verbuche ich dann mal als das absurdeste Ende aller Zeiten... Was für ein blöder Abschluss. Und ich muss ehrlich zugeben, dass ich nicht kapiert habe, was nun das große Geheimnis war, das Joana aufdecken wollte?! Ich wäre euch seeeehr dankbar, wenn ihr mir eine Nachricht schreiben würdet und erklärt, was sie da nun herausgefunden hat o.O
May 29, 2019
I freely admit that I bailed at the 35-percent mark, even though the writing is clear and the manuscript obviously was written by a professional. Had I known that this is the re-release of a book called The Love Letter (in the UK), I'd never have purchased The Royal Secret.
Except for the grandfather who dies early on, the characters are spoiled, entitled, and boring. The protagonist is unbelievably naive and clueless, and her best friend’s convenient work in espionage is contrived. I couldn’t think of a single reason to finish this book.
The Royal Secret should have REMAINED a secret.
Except for the grandfather who dies early on, the characters are spoiled, entitled, and boring. The protagonist is unbelievably naive and clueless, and her best friend’s convenient work in espionage is contrived. I couldn’t think of a single reason to finish this book.
The Royal Secret should have REMAINED a secret.
September 2, 2018
OMG I want the last week back. I found plot holes early on but were sure they would be explained. Then 3/4s through we get the action packed Hollywood ending, some trite dialogue trying to explain away inconsistencies and then it STILL goes on, adding more b/s and implausible scenario after the other. Characters are murdered with glib “ well he was at the end of his career anyway” type dialogue and then it gets worse and worse.
How to take an interesting idea, likeable characters and then completely stuff it up. I wanted to throw the book across the room at the end. Absolute bloody hack!
So yeah, am on the fence here.
How to take an interesting idea, likeable characters and then completely stuff it up. I wanted to throw the book across the room at the end. Absolute bloody hack!
So yeah, am on the fence here.
January 7, 2023
Paslaptinga istorija, kurioje iki galo neatskleidžiama kuom toks svarbus gautas laiškas iš praeities, per kurį miršta žmonės. Žurnalistės detali paieška ir jos persekiojimas, bei stabdymas. Ar galima pasitikėti savo vaikystės draugu? Net kelios meilės istorijos. Viskas įdomiai ir lengvai parašyta, tik kažkodėl knygos pabaiga nesužavėjo ir neįtikino.. 🤷♀️ ir atsisakyti savo ankstesniojo gyvenimo, ar buvo verta..?
🖋 Patogu gyventi saugant save ir savo širdį nuo naujų skaudulių, bet ar tai tikras gyvenimas?
🖋 Patogu gyventi saugant save ir savo širdį nuo naujų skaudulių, bet ar tai tikras gyvenimas?
March 18, 2023
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Ko-fi
The Love Letter was my first book by Lucinda Riley, and I can’t believe I haven’t read a book by this author before. This is a magnificent book, full of secrets, forbidden romances and unsolved mysteries of the past.
Synopsis:
Set in London in 1995, this book starts off when Sir James Harrison passes away. He was one of the greatest actors of his generation. During his funeral, a lot of people gather, considering how impactful he was. Among them, one old woman, that sits alone in the crowd…
Joanna Haslam is a young journalist, and she is assigned to cover the actor’s funeral. Many famous celebrities will be there, and she can’t miss this moment. But something else captures her attention. An old woman, that shares a secret letter Harrison left behind, which needs to keep a secret forever.
The closer she gets to tracking down the source, the more she realises how dangerous this secret is. Many people are interested to keep this letter a secret, and they’ll stop at nothing.
My Thoughts:
The Love Letter is a book my mum chose for me, when “Mama Pick” came up on my TBR game. It’s a book she really enjoyed and I am so glad I was able to share this with her. I am very excited to see what she’ll pick next when the next prompt comes up for her.
I find it very intriguing that there seems to be a certain mysteriousness of the censure this book received. It was mentioned in the acknowledgments that some obstacles occured with the ability to get it published, due to the fact that there is a royal family involved, even though a fictional one.
The Love Letter is mysterious from the very beginning, when Joanna meets the old lady. Little does she know that she will be involved with keeping a very dangerous secret that happened many moons ago. Things start to get very interesting when the reporter gets close to the actor’s family. Each of these individuals keeps their own little secrets too, and everyone keeps playing games to their own liking.
The storytelling, the characters and the many plot twists were incredible.
I was turning the pages so fast, desperate to see what happens next. Desperate for more. I was eager to discover all their secrets and found myself hoping for their wellbeing. The plot twists would happen in places I would least expect and I loved the ending.
The Love Letter takes you to a very different set of culture, and reading this in 2020, I could easily notice it is set in 1995. There are many small things in the book that happen, which reminded me that time has passed since, and I really enjoyed that. It has been a while since I have read something over two decades ago.
A wonderful fiction, full with secrets, drama, suspense and a bit of romance. I loved every single moment of it. Lucinda Riley is definitely an author I will read more books from in the future.
The Love Letter was my first book by Lucinda Riley, and I can’t believe I haven’t read a book by this author before. This is a magnificent book, full of secrets, forbidden romances and unsolved mysteries of the past.
Synopsis:
Set in London in 1995, this book starts off when Sir James Harrison passes away. He was one of the greatest actors of his generation. During his funeral, a lot of people gather, considering how impactful he was. Among them, one old woman, that sits alone in the crowd…
Joanna Haslam is a young journalist, and she is assigned to cover the actor’s funeral. Many famous celebrities will be there, and she can’t miss this moment. But something else captures her attention. An old woman, that shares a secret letter Harrison left behind, which needs to keep a secret forever.
The closer she gets to tracking down the source, the more she realises how dangerous this secret is. Many people are interested to keep this letter a secret, and they’ll stop at nothing.
My Thoughts:
The Love Letter is a book my mum chose for me, when “Mama Pick” came up on my TBR game. It’s a book she really enjoyed and I am so glad I was able to share this with her. I am very excited to see what she’ll pick next when the next prompt comes up for her.
I find it very intriguing that there seems to be a certain mysteriousness of the censure this book received. It was mentioned in the acknowledgments that some obstacles occured with the ability to get it published, due to the fact that there is a royal family involved, even though a fictional one.
The Love Letter is mysterious from the very beginning, when Joanna meets the old lady. Little does she know that she will be involved with keeping a very dangerous secret that happened many moons ago. Things start to get very interesting when the reporter gets close to the actor’s family. Each of these individuals keeps their own little secrets too, and everyone keeps playing games to their own liking.
The storytelling, the characters and the many plot twists were incredible.
I was turning the pages so fast, desperate to see what happens next. Desperate for more. I was eager to discover all their secrets and found myself hoping for their wellbeing. The plot twists would happen in places I would least expect and I loved the ending.
The Love Letter takes you to a very different set of culture, and reading this in 2020, I could easily notice it is set in 1995. There are many small things in the book that happen, which reminded me that time has passed since, and I really enjoyed that. It has been a while since I have read something over two decades ago.
A wonderful fiction, full with secrets, drama, suspense and a bit of romance. I loved every single moment of it. Lucinda Riley is definitely an author I will read more books from in the future.
July 12, 2021
I was really looking forward to reading The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley. Riley's The Seven Sisters series is a favorite of mine and I was curious to see how this stand-alone book would be. And, the mystery and the events surrounding the mystery are gloriously entertaining to read about. I love mysteries that make the characters in books dig deep to reveal truths from the past. And, if I'm lucky the love stories that usually are a part of books like this will work out for me.
Unfortunately, that's what made this story limp a bit. I found myself not really caring about the romantic hookups. Partly, I think this lies in the fact that the character never really truly connected with me. And, this is a massive book, the Kindle edition is 624 pages. And, to feel, unconnected with characters in such a large book is a bit hard. Thankfully the main story, the secret that James Harrison left behind is pretty amazing. If the story had focused more on that, rather than the romantic entanglement, not to mention all the cheesy moments (especially the ending) then the book would have been truly great.
So, would I recommend this book? Yes, I would. It sure is a thick book, but Lucinda Riley is a great author and if you're lucky you will find both the mystery and the romance great.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
Unfortunately, that's what made this story limp a bit. I found myself not really caring about the romantic hookups. Partly, I think this lies in the fact that the character never really truly connected with me. And, this is a massive book, the Kindle edition is 624 pages. And, to feel, unconnected with characters in such a large book is a bit hard. Thankfully the main story, the secret that James Harrison left behind is pretty amazing. If the story had focused more on that, rather than the romantic entanglement, not to mention all the cheesy moments (especially the ending) then the book would have been truly great.
So, would I recommend this book? Yes, I would. It sure is a thick book, but Lucinda Riley is a great author and if you're lucky you will find both the mystery and the romance great.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
Read
August 27, 2018Joanna Haslam a reporter goes to legendary actor Sir James Harrison’s funeral where she meets an old lady called Rose who she helps home when she becomes ill at the funeral. When Joanna receives a letter from Rose Joanna goes on a hunt to discover Jame’s secrets but there are people out there who will do anything to stop this secret getting out,and they are very powerful people.
This book had me gripped from the start, you can really sink you’re teeth into it as it is a complex tale with a strong conspiracy theory thrown In with secrets, murder and romance.
A must read book with an ending you won’t see coming!!
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for a review.
This book had me gripped from the start, you can really sink you’re teeth into it as it is a complex tale with a strong conspiracy theory thrown In with secrets, murder and romance.
A must read book with an ending you won’t see coming!!
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for a review.
March 24, 2021
Que puede decir de esta mujer que no haya dicho ya, tiene una mente prodigiosa, que capacidad de inventar e hilar todo a la perfección, un libro lleno de historias como ella acostumbra hacer, no cabe el aburrimiento con esta mujer jamás, me declaro fans incondicional de Lucinda, leer sus libros es leer buena literatura, de esa que sales del libro y el corazón se queda feliz y satisfecho.
Extracto del libro:
¿Acaso los clichés no tenían su origen en los denominadores comunes de la conducta humana?
Extracto del libro:
¿Acaso los clichés no tenían su origen en los denominadores comunes de la conducta humana?
September 8, 2023
Pirma pažintis su Lucinda Riley, visai nustebino, nes įsivaizdavau ją kaip saldžių romanų autorę, o ši istorija buvo beveik ir detektyvas. Skaitėsi lengvai ir greitai, puikiai tinka į laisvalaikio skaitinius. Siužetas holivudinis, bet tai ir šaunu, veiksmo daug, nenuobodu, gerai praleistas laikas.
October 2, 2018
A proper tome of a thriller that was highly engaging from start to finish, peppered with brilliantly formed characters and a highly intriguing central theme.
I read with interest how this book was due to arrive years ago but didn't...a great one for conspiracy theorists!
A love letter, a scandal, money and family form the heart of this and whilst it was very different to this author's recent novels I definitely think she should write more like this!
Beautifully plotted and gorgeous writing.
Recommended.
I read with interest how this book was due to arrive years ago but didn't...a great one for conspiracy theorists!
A love letter, a scandal, money and family form the heart of this and whilst it was very different to this author's recent novels I definitely think she should write more like this!
Beautifully plotted and gorgeous writing.
Recommended.
February 18, 2019
France 1995 a newspaper front page, reporting the death of an aged famous English actor, Sir James Harrison is being read by another aged person with past connections to the actor. So the unravelling of events begins with the French resident making the fateful decision to return to England for the memorial service. Lucinda Riley has done it again, another fabulous creative thriller, a story of intrigue, suspense and murder courtesy of MI5 agents and with Royal implications. The author acknowledges that this book does have some parallels to events around the life of Princess Diana, however this was not the intention. Taking all things into account regarding Royalty, British Kings have been prolific womanisers from way back when, then there are similarities to Princess Margaret and her love for Peter Townsend.
Joanna Haslam is a journalist, a junior reporter nursing a heavy cold and on this day of the service she is reporting on, she is bereft and not thinking straight due to the decision by long time boyfriend/partner to drop her for another woman. Along with all of this she finds herself assisting an aged French lady back to her London flat after a bad turn at the service triggered by her recognising a late arrival. Simon, Civil Servant and long time family friend of Joanna unexpectedly turns up at her flat as she is continuing her meltdown, on leaving her flat he recognises a special number plate of a car parked nearby. The author then moves the story to the Harrison family, Zoe is a star actor even with an unplanned pregnancy by an unnamed and secret man during her uni days, her brother is at this point the proverbial third generation failure, money and influence have not assisted him at all to be successful, detrimental personal habits have not helped.
At work, out of the blue Joanna receives an envelope with a cryptic letter from the aged French lady along with an old love letter and theatre programme enclosed. Joanna is to visit her, but the letter is late in reaching her and when she turns up at the flat she is informed by a neighbour there that the French lady, Rose is dead. On close inspection of the circumstances and chatting to the neighbour Joanna fully believes that she has been murdered. The flat has been thoroughly cleaned and all personal effects removed, to where? and by whom. From here on the intrigue starts. The reader may believe that some secrets are relative to the father of Zoe's son but this is a side story to the main event which has so many far reaching implications along with a promise made by a senior Civil Servant who is responsible for the crimes committed for which is revealed towards the end of the book. This book is hard to put down, so many twists and turns, homes are bugged, Joanna’s flat is ransacked, secrets and lies have been told, people are murdered who may have put two and two together or with some slight inside knowledge, blackmail has been successful assuring life's endeavours for one person in particular. The ending reveals a surprise but a bit ordinary compared to the whole adventure.
Joanna Haslam is a journalist, a junior reporter nursing a heavy cold and on this day of the service she is reporting on, she is bereft and not thinking straight due to the decision by long time boyfriend/partner to drop her for another woman. Along with all of this she finds herself assisting an aged French lady back to her London flat after a bad turn at the service triggered by her recognising a late arrival. Simon, Civil Servant and long time family friend of Joanna unexpectedly turns up at her flat as she is continuing her meltdown, on leaving her flat he recognises a special number plate of a car parked nearby. The author then moves the story to the Harrison family, Zoe is a star actor even with an unplanned pregnancy by an unnamed and secret man during her uni days, her brother is at this point the proverbial third generation failure, money and influence have not assisted him at all to be successful, detrimental personal habits have not helped.
At work, out of the blue Joanna receives an envelope with a cryptic letter from the aged French lady along with an old love letter and theatre programme enclosed. Joanna is to visit her, but the letter is late in reaching her and when she turns up at the flat she is informed by a neighbour there that the French lady, Rose is dead. On close inspection of the circumstances and chatting to the neighbour Joanna fully believes that she has been murdered. The flat has been thoroughly cleaned and all personal effects removed, to where? and by whom. From here on the intrigue starts. The reader may believe that some secrets are relative to the father of Zoe's son but this is a side story to the main event which has so many far reaching implications along with a promise made by a senior Civil Servant who is responsible for the crimes committed for which is revealed towards the end of the book. This book is hard to put down, so many twists and turns, homes are bugged, Joanna’s flat is ransacked, secrets and lies have been told, people are murdered who may have put two and two together or with some slight inside knowledge, blackmail has been successful assuring life's endeavours for one person in particular. The ending reveals a surprise but a bit ordinary compared to the whole adventure.
October 5, 2017
4,5🌟 bis zum Ende war es grandios. erst die letzten 50 Seiten fand ich nicht mehr so toll. daher halber Stern Abzug
December 1, 2021
Iki šiol, L Riley pažinojau tik kaip "Septynių seserų" serijos autorę. Smalsumas ir noras pamatyti kitą jos pusę nugalėjo, todėl į norų sąrašą įtraukiau ir "Meilės laišką".⠀
⠀
Ši tikrai kitokia, nei "Seserys". Yra ir lengvas trilerio prieskonis, tačiau šį kartą apsieita be šokinėjimo tarp dviejų laiko linijų. ⠀
⠀
Į jaunos žurnalistės Džoanos rankas, laimingo atsitiktinumo dėka, papuola senas meilės laiškas. Iš pirmo žvilgnio, jis nei kiek neypatingas. Tačiau, pradėjus aiškintis jo istoriją, Džoana atveria vartus į karališkas paslaptis, kurias, monarchiją saugančios tarnybos, pasirengę išsaugoti visais įmanomais būdais. Net, jei tam prireiks ne vienos aukos.⠀
⠀
Gal kiek keista, bet svarbiausia knygoje ne meilė. Daugiau dėmesio, čia skiriama draugystei, pasiaukojimui ir žinoma, paslaptims. Drąsai kapstytis ten, kur draudžiama. Drąsai nutraukti santykius, kurie neturi ateities ir duoti sau antrą šansą.⠀
⠀
Nors knyga man patiko mažiau, nei tikėjausi, pabaiga nustebino. Gal ir ne baisiai reali, bet priverčianti nusišypsoti ir nubraukianti dalį, knygoje besitęsiančio slogumo. ⠀
⠀
Nesunkiai įsivaizduoju šią knygą, virstančią filmu. Slaptosios tarnybos, grubiai glaistomos paslaptys, herojiškas pasiaukojimas - didžiąjame ekrane atrodytų neblogai 🎬 ⠀
⠀
Tik klausimas, kaip į tai reaguotų Britanijos karališkoji šeima. Autorė, knygos įžangoje pasakojo apie tai, kaip planuotam knygos išleidimui, 2000m., sutrukdė po princesės Dianos žūties sumažėjęs monarchijos populiarumas ir karalienės Motinos šimtmečio jubiliejaus minėjimo iškilmės. Nors istorija išgalvota, įtariu, kad tikrai nedžiuginanti Backingam'o rūmų 🤷♀️⠀
⠀
Ši tikrai kitokia, nei "Seserys". Yra ir lengvas trilerio prieskonis, tačiau šį kartą apsieita be šokinėjimo tarp dviejų laiko linijų. ⠀
⠀
Į jaunos žurnalistės Džoanos rankas, laimingo atsitiktinumo dėka, papuola senas meilės laiškas. Iš pirmo žvilgnio, jis nei kiek neypatingas. Tačiau, pradėjus aiškintis jo istoriją, Džoana atveria vartus į karališkas paslaptis, kurias, monarchiją saugančios tarnybos, pasirengę išsaugoti visais įmanomais būdais. Net, jei tam prireiks ne vienos aukos.⠀
⠀
Gal kiek keista, bet svarbiausia knygoje ne meilė. Daugiau dėmesio, čia skiriama draugystei, pasiaukojimui ir žinoma, paslaptims. Drąsai kapstytis ten, kur draudžiama. Drąsai nutraukti santykius, kurie neturi ateities ir duoti sau antrą šansą.⠀
⠀
Nors knyga man patiko mažiau, nei tikėjausi, pabaiga nustebino. Gal ir ne baisiai reali, bet priverčianti nusišypsoti ir nubraukianti dalį, knygoje besitęsiančio slogumo. ⠀
⠀
Nesunkiai įsivaizduoju šią knygą, virstančią filmu. Slaptosios tarnybos, grubiai glaistomos paslaptys, herojiškas pasiaukojimas - didžiąjame ekrane atrodytų neblogai 🎬 ⠀
⠀
Tik klausimas, kaip į tai reaguotų Britanijos karališkoji šeima. Autorė, knygos įžangoje pasakojo apie tai, kaip planuotam knygos išleidimui, 2000m., sutrukdė po princesės Dianos žūties sumažėjęs monarchijos populiarumas ir karalienės Motinos šimtmečio jubiliejaus minėjimo iškilmės. Nors istorija išgalvota, įtariu, kad tikrai nedžiuginanti Backingam'o rūmų 🤷♀️⠀
May 21, 2019
I've been wanting to read Lucinda Riley for a while now after seeing my blogger friends praise her Seven Sisters series, and I am so glad that I took the plunge. Lucinda is magician with words!
Joanna is a journalist with a demanding job and fresh out of a failed relationship when she is assigned to cover the funeral for a famous actor. While at the funeral she meets an elderly woman who sends her a letter which begins a series of events that could absolutely ruin the Royal family. Joanna's investigating is fraught with danger as she gets closer to finding the truth. A secret that the Royal family will do anything to hide.
I. Was. Riveted! It's almost 600 pages but I was so invested that the pages flew by! It's a great feat for an author to keep the suspense going for that long. I was totally surprised at the end and never figured out the mystery. I was like this for most of the book....
https://media.giphy.com/media/DfSXiR6....
I highly recommend The Royal Secret! It had a fabulous plot line, wonderful characters, and the writing is phenomenal. I will definitely be picking up Riley's Seven Sisters series soon!
Joanna is a journalist with a demanding job and fresh out of a failed relationship when she is assigned to cover the funeral for a famous actor. While at the funeral she meets an elderly woman who sends her a letter which begins a series of events that could absolutely ruin the Royal family. Joanna's investigating is fraught with danger as she gets closer to finding the truth. A secret that the Royal family will do anything to hide.
I. Was. Riveted! It's almost 600 pages but I was so invested that the pages flew by! It's a great feat for an author to keep the suspense going for that long. I was totally surprised at the end and never figured out the mystery. I was like this for most of the book....
https://media.giphy.com/media/DfSXiR6....
I highly recommend The Royal Secret! It had a fabulous plot line, wonderful characters, and the writing is phenomenal. I will definitely be picking up Riley's Seven Sisters series soon!
April 9, 2024
Turiu dar užtaupiusi keletą savo mylimos autorės knygų. Šiuo metu norėjosi įdomaus ir įtraukiančio skaitinio. Pagalvojau, jog tam tikrai puikiai tiks Riley 🤍
Šioje knygoje veiksmas vyksta 1995 metais, Londone. Mirus garsiam aktoriui, serui Džeimsui Harisonui kartu su juo į kapus iškeliauja ir ilgai slėpta paslaptis..
Užsispyrusi bei drąsi žurnalistė Džoana Haslam imasi užduoties, kurios tikslas yra papasakoti apie aktoriaus gyvenimą. Beieškodama informacijos moteris apčiuopia kažką tamsaus.. Ir tai tik pradžia.
Kiek kitokia Riley istorija, tačiau ne ką mažiau įdomi. Šioje knygoje netrūko painių siužeto vingių, įdomių personažų, meilės, išdavystės bei žinoma ir paslapčių.
Nors pati knyga ir nemenka storuliukė, bet skaitymas man tikrai neprailgo. Puslapiai vertėsi greitai, o pasakojimas įsuko kone akimirksniu.
Ir galbūt ši knyga nėra mano perskaityta pati įdomiausia Lucindos Riley istorija, tačiau skaitymo malonumas buvo didelis. Skaitydama "Meilės laišką" puikiai prisiminiau už ką ši autorė yra mylima visame pasaulyje ❤️
Šioje knygoje veiksmas vyksta 1995 metais, Londone. Mirus garsiam aktoriui, serui Džeimsui Harisonui kartu su juo į kapus iškeliauja ir ilgai slėpta paslaptis..
Užsispyrusi bei drąsi žurnalistė Džoana Haslam imasi užduoties, kurios tikslas yra papasakoti apie aktoriaus gyvenimą. Beieškodama informacijos moteris apčiuopia kažką tamsaus.. Ir tai tik pradžia.
Kiek kitokia Riley istorija, tačiau ne ką mažiau įdomi. Šioje knygoje netrūko painių siužeto vingių, įdomių personažų, meilės, išdavystės bei žinoma ir paslapčių.
Nors pati knyga ir nemenka storuliukė, bet skaitymas man tikrai neprailgo. Puslapiai vertėsi greitai, o pasakojimas įsuko kone akimirksniu.
Ir galbūt ši knyga nėra mano perskaityta pati įdomiausia Lucindos Riley istorija, tačiau skaitymo malonumas buvo didelis. Skaitydama "Meilės laišką" puikiai prisiminiau už ką ši autorė yra mylima visame pasaulyje ❤️
January 18, 2021
Începutul a mers greu, dar am insistat sa o citesc, nu este prima data cand mi se intampla la cartile Luciei Riley sa simt ca se lungește inceputul, dar sfârșitul sa merite tot efortul. Am avut dreptate si de data aceasta si abia după jumătatea cartii lucrurile au devenit cu adevarat interesante, iar sfârșitul mi-a placut tare mult. Legatura dintre un faimos actor care moare la vârsta de 95 de ani, o jurnalista, un aparent banal functionar public, o actrita talentata, nepoata bunului actor, fratele ei, producător ratat si o batrana putin senila chiar iti da batai de cap. Cand la un moment dat membrii familiei regale sunt aruncați în tot acest amestec chiar am fost tentata sa abandonez, dar ma bucur acum ca nu am facut-o. Lucinda Riley vine, ca de fiecare data, cu o larga paleta de personaje ofertante, secrete, intrigi, ficțiune istorica si un mister ce se lungește pe 600 de pagini.
February 1, 2021
Well, this was a disappointment! I haven't read a Lucinda Riley book before but have heard so much about her that I had great expectations from this one too.
The plot begins with the death of celebrated actor James Harrison at the age of 95, leaving behind son Charles, grandchildren Marcus and Zoe, and great grandson Jamie. A junior reporter, Joanna Haslam, is sent to cover the funeral where she meets an elderly lady named Rose. Circumstances force Joanna to meet up with Rose again and she soon learns that there's some elaborate mystery Rose is aware of. Unfortunately, Rose dies under mysterious circumstances and Joanna is left in big trouble with unknown enemies. A parallel plot is with Marcus and his struggles with money, and with Zoe and her struggling to balance her single parenthood with her secret paramour. Add to the mix Joanna's best friend Simon, her editor Alec and many, many other characters and you soon have a grand soap opera cum espionage thriller unfurling.
To be fair, the book goes on very nicely till about 50%. I was really enjoying the ride with the interesting characters and even more interesting plot. Then it all goes haywire. The story just starts dragging with illogical twists and needless drama. It felt like the author lost control of her narrative and searched for desperate means to get it back on track in order to retain her reader. Most of her twists were guessable well in advance and that worsened my experience. What's the point of reading dozens of pages to uncover the suspense you already cracked!
I wonder why she didn't resort to the simpler method of reducing at least 200 pages from this massive, almost 600 page tome. A taut thriller is always better than a stretched one. The second half of the book is what kills the enjoyment. And as everyone knows, a reader remembers a book for how it made him/her feel at the end and not at the start.
Still, the author got 50% right, so I'll also go with 50% marks. It's a 2.5 from me. I'm not giving up on Lucinda Riley yet. Let me hope that this was an aberration rather than the norm.
*************************************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
The plot begins with the death of celebrated actor James Harrison at the age of 95, leaving behind son Charles, grandchildren Marcus and Zoe, and great grandson Jamie. A junior reporter, Joanna Haslam, is sent to cover the funeral where she meets an elderly lady named Rose. Circumstances force Joanna to meet up with Rose again and she soon learns that there's some elaborate mystery Rose is aware of. Unfortunately, Rose dies under mysterious circumstances and Joanna is left in big trouble with unknown enemies. A parallel plot is with Marcus and his struggles with money, and with Zoe and her struggling to balance her single parenthood with her secret paramour. Add to the mix Joanna's best friend Simon, her editor Alec and many, many other characters and you soon have a grand soap opera cum espionage thriller unfurling.
To be fair, the book goes on very nicely till about 50%. I was really enjoying the ride with the interesting characters and even more interesting plot. Then it all goes haywire. The story just starts dragging with illogical twists and needless drama. It felt like the author lost control of her narrative and searched for desperate means to get it back on track in order to retain her reader. Most of her twists were guessable well in advance and that worsened my experience. What's the point of reading dozens of pages to uncover the suspense you already cracked!
I wonder why she didn't resort to the simpler method of reducing at least 200 pages from this massive, almost 600 page tome. A taut thriller is always better than a stretched one. The second half of the book is what kills the enjoyment. And as everyone knows, a reader remembers a book for how it made him/her feel at the end and not at the start.
Still, the author got 50% right, so I'll also go with 50% marks. It's a 2.5 from me. I'm not giving up on Lucinda Riley yet. Let me hope that this was an aberration rather than the norm.
*************************************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
September 28, 2018
I bought this book the day it was released .
Yet it took me agessss to finish. I have no idea why , it just felt that this was a bit slower than the authors other novels.
I still cannot wait to ready anything written by Lucinda Riley but felt this plot was a little weak. Slow and repetitive .
Yet it took me agessss to finish. I have no idea why , it just felt that this was a bit slower than the authors other novels.
I still cannot wait to ready anything written by Lucinda Riley but felt this plot was a little weak. Slow and repetitive .
March 23, 2019
This is a huge read - 600 pages so a great holiday read in theory
In places I was so gripped but it became messy in parts and lost me. Mid way through I couldn’t put it down but then the narrative just lost it for me
In places I was so gripped but it became messy in parts and lost me. Mid way through I couldn’t put it down but then the narrative just lost it for me
January 26, 2024
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
This was a good story. It was not what I expected, although this is my first read from Riley, so I am intrigued to find out what her other novels are like.
This was a good story. It was not what I expected, although this is my first read from Riley, so I am intrigued to find out what her other novels are like.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,088 reviews