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Seven Letters
J. P. Monninger, author of the international bestseller The Map That Leads to You, the novel Nicholas Sparks called “romantic and unforgettable", tells a poignant love story of the ways the world divides two souls—and the way that love brings them together.
Kate Moreton is in Ireland on sabbatical from her teaching position at Dartmouth College when she meets Ozzie Ferriter, a fisherman and a veteran of the American war in Afghanistan. The Ferriter family history dates back centuries on the remote Blasket Islands, and Ozzie – a dual citizen of Ireland and the United States – has retreated to the one place that might offer him peace from a war he cannot seem to leave behind.
Beside the sea, with Ireland’s beauty as a backdrop, the two fall deeply in love and attempt to live on an island of their own making, away from the pressures of the outside world. Ireland writes its own love stories, the legends claim, and the limits of Kate and Ozzie’s love and faith in each other will be tested. When his demons lead Ozzie to become reckless with his life—and Kate’s—she flees for America rather than watch the man she loves self-destruct. But soon a letter arrives informing Kate that her heroic husband has been lost at sea, and Kate must decide whether it is an act of love to follow him or an act of mercy to forget.
Kate Moreton is in Ireland on sabbatical from her teaching position at Dartmouth College when she meets Ozzie Ferriter, a fisherman and a veteran of the American war in Afghanistan. The Ferriter family history dates back centuries on the remote Blasket Islands, and Ozzie – a dual citizen of Ireland and the United States – has retreated to the one place that might offer him peace from a war he cannot seem to leave behind.
Beside the sea, with Ireland’s beauty as a backdrop, the two fall deeply in love and attempt to live on an island of their own making, away from the pressures of the outside world. Ireland writes its own love stories, the legends claim, and the limits of Kate and Ozzie’s love and faith in each other will be tested. When his demons lead Ozzie to become reckless with his life—and Kate’s—she flees for America rather than watch the man she loves self-destruct. But soon a letter arrives informing Kate that her heroic husband has been lost at sea, and Kate must decide whether it is an act of love to follow him or an act of mercy to forget.
352 pages, Paperback
First published October 8, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
December 31, 2019
Seven Letters by J.P. Monninger is a love story that spans New Hampshire, Ireland and Canada. Although I am usually not a romance reader, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The author’s previous work drew me to this one. Kate Moreton, a professor at Dartmouth in New Hampshire is on a sabbatical in Ireland where she plans on studying and writing a book about the Blaskey Islands. She is soon introduced to Ozzie Ferriter, a fisherman and war veteran. The attraction soon turns to love and plans are made for a life together. But life happens and Kate returns to the US, leaving both lovers broken-hearted. A few years later, the worst news reaches Kate and she rushes back to Ireland. This is a lovely little book, perfect for holiday reading. Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2019
One of those books you devour but you don’t want it to end.
"There’s no cure for love but to love more."
Kate, on sabbatical from her teaching position at Dartmouth, travels to Ireland to do research for her doctoral dissertation about the Blasket Islands, a remote part of the country that the government migrated everyone away from years ago.
Shortly after arriving she meets Ozzie, the immensely handsome, part Irish-part American grandson of a woman she met on her journey. Ozzie is intense, mercurial, a veteran of the war in Afghanistan. He has fled to Ireland in the hopes he can put the memories of the war behind him.
Kate and Ozzie fall intensely in love. She knows she’s only in Ireland for a short while and knows she needs to concentrate on her research. But her love overwhelms her, and the two try to build a life on one of the islands away from everyone else. It is idyllic at times, at times challenging, and when Ozzie is unable to escape the pain of his memories, it tears at the fibers of their relationship.
When Ozzie’s impulsive nature puts both of them at risk, Kate returns to America and tries to put the memories behind her. And while they creep back from time to time, she is doing somewhat well—until she gets word that Ozzie is lost at sea, presumed dead, and she feels the need to travel to Europe to find out what happened to him. She must decide whether she’s ready to move on fully or whether she needs to be tethered to his memory for her own sake.
I’m a total sap, and this book was utterly up my alley. I thought it was beautifully written—having the gorgeousness of Ireland as a backdrop doesn’t hurt—and it captured me fully. The instant-love plot thread may seem a little overly dramatic and/or unrealistic for some but you can totally see two people be utterly consumed by the fire of their love without thinking.
I can’t get this one out of my head. I've never read anything J.P. Monninger has written before, but I'll definitely do so again.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
You can follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
"There’s no cure for love but to love more."
Kate, on sabbatical from her teaching position at Dartmouth, travels to Ireland to do research for her doctoral dissertation about the Blasket Islands, a remote part of the country that the government migrated everyone away from years ago.
Shortly after arriving she meets Ozzie, the immensely handsome, part Irish-part American grandson of a woman she met on her journey. Ozzie is intense, mercurial, a veteran of the war in Afghanistan. He has fled to Ireland in the hopes he can put the memories of the war behind him.
Kate and Ozzie fall intensely in love. She knows she’s only in Ireland for a short while and knows she needs to concentrate on her research. But her love overwhelms her, and the two try to build a life on one of the islands away from everyone else. It is idyllic at times, at times challenging, and when Ozzie is unable to escape the pain of his memories, it tears at the fibers of their relationship.
When Ozzie’s impulsive nature puts both of them at risk, Kate returns to America and tries to put the memories behind her. And while they creep back from time to time, she is doing somewhat well—until she gets word that Ozzie is lost at sea, presumed dead, and she feels the need to travel to Europe to find out what happened to him. She must decide whether she’s ready to move on fully or whether she needs to be tethered to his memory for her own sake.
I’m a total sap, and this book was utterly up my alley. I thought it was beautifully written—having the gorgeousness of Ireland as a backdrop doesn’t hurt—and it captured me fully. The instant-love plot thread may seem a little overly dramatic and/or unrealistic for some but you can totally see two people be utterly consumed by the fire of their love without thinking.
I can’t get this one out of my head. I've never read anything J.P. Monninger has written before, but I'll definitely do so again.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
You can follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
April 20, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley and Jordan Hanley of St. Martin's Press for a digital galley in exchange for an honest review.
Here I go again! Reading a book that won't be published for many months, but I fell into temptation. See I read J.P. Monniger's The Map that Leads to You in 2017 and that book abruptly knocked me off my feet and melted my cynical heart. Forgive me ARCs of April and May, I will read many of you this long weekend!
Synopsis: Irish-American professor, Kate Mereton heads to Ireland, researching the Blasket Islands, located in the Dingle Pennisula (which sound so interesting-where's my passport?) and meets many intriguing characters. Amongst them is a veteran of Afghanistan and local fishermen, Ozzie Ferriter. Ozzie and Kate have a tense first meeting but it isn't too long until they give into their feelings and begin a passionate affair.
In true Monniger fashion, his characters are as complicated as they are passionately in love. As the story is told completely from the point of view of Kate, we see her worries about balancing the work life she enjoys so much with the man she is still getting to know. Personally, I would have enjoyed getting a little bit into Ozzie's mind. I felt his absence greatly especially in terms of certain events that unravel in the second half of the novel. Honestly, Kate was hard for me to like, but I doubt I would have dealt with such a relationship any differently.
I am quickly becoming a fan of this author and I await further works with great longing. Although I had a difficult time buying into the relationship of Kate and Ozzie, I would still recommend this to contemporary romance fiction readers.
Goodreads review 19/04/19
Publication Date 10/08/19
Here I go again! Reading a book that won't be published for many months, but I fell into temptation. See I read J.P. Monniger's The Map that Leads to You in 2017 and that book abruptly knocked me off my feet and melted my cynical heart. Forgive me ARCs of April and May, I will read many of you this long weekend!
Synopsis: Irish-American professor, Kate Mereton heads to Ireland, researching the Blasket Islands, located in the Dingle Pennisula (which sound so interesting-where's my passport?) and meets many intriguing characters. Amongst them is a veteran of Afghanistan and local fishermen, Ozzie Ferriter. Ozzie and Kate have a tense first meeting but it isn't too long until they give into their feelings and begin a passionate affair.
In true Monniger fashion, his characters are as complicated as they are passionately in love. As the story is told completely from the point of view of Kate, we see her worries about balancing the work life she enjoys so much with the man she is still getting to know. Personally, I would have enjoyed getting a little bit into Ozzie's mind. I felt his absence greatly especially in terms of certain events that unravel in the second half of the novel. Honestly, Kate was hard for me to like, but I doubt I would have dealt with such a relationship any differently.
I am quickly becoming a fan of this author and I await further works with great longing. Although I had a difficult time buying into the relationship of Kate and Ozzie, I would still recommend this to contemporary romance fiction readers.
Goodreads review 19/04/19
Publication Date 10/08/19
May 18, 2020
Am ezitat o vreme inainte sa citesc cartea deoarece Harta care ma duce la tine, scrisa de acelasi autor nu m-a incantat peste masura. Cartea a inceput interesant, atractia dintre Kate si Ozzie este puternica, insa putin pusa in valoare. La fel ca si personajele din Harta care ma duce la tone, acestia au parte de o relatie intensa, la scurt timp dupa ce se cunosc, fara ca intensitatea sa fie pe deplin exploatata sau redata, ai mereu impresia ca personajele sunt undeva departe (desi naratiunea este la persoana I, perspectiva lui Kate). Abia dupa jumatatea romanului povestea capata substanta, dar mereu simti ca ii lipseste ceva care sa o faca o poveste memorabila.
February 11, 2021
Un roman captivant, ușor de citit, ce te poartă efectiv în Irlanda, Roma sau chiar New Hampshire. Autorul reușește performanța de a reda cu acuratețe nuanțele locurilor, felul de a fi al locuitorilor.
Kate Moreton ajunge în Irlanda în cadrul unui proiect de cercetare, fascinată fiind de poveștile tatălui ei despre Irlanda natală.
Aici îl întâlnește pe Ozzie, un tip relaxat și boem ce ascunde răni ale unui trecut care încă îl bântuie... Afganistan.
Se îndrăgostesc, se căsătoresc și decid să facă o călătorie în jurul Irlandei cu barca... Doar că, în timpul unei furtuni din care abia scapă, tânăra este convinsă că bărbatul i-a pus viața în pericol deliberat...
De aici, drumurile lor se despart, fiecare trăindu-și viața separat, pierd legătura, deși încă mai sunt căsătoriți. Până într-o zi când Kate primește un telefon de la bunica lui Ozzie, care-i spune că acesta s-a scufundat cu barca pe coasta Siciliei și se presupune că este mort.
Se pare că zicala conform căreia, abia când pierzi pe cineva înveți să îl apreciezi, este adevărată! După dispariția lui Ozzie, Kate face cercetări în privința acestuia și constată că niciodată nu l-a cunoscut cu adevărat. Ceea ce află despre el o face să înțeleagă altfel trecutul și să realizeze că a greșit atunci când l-a părăsit.
J. P. Monninger redă nu doar atmosfera locurilor pe care le vizităm alături de Kate, ci ne poartă în lumea academică, în cercetarea trecutului istoric. Pe langăfaptul că avem parte de emoții și sentimente diferite, specifice anumitor etape ale vieții, menite să ofere cititorului o hartă clară a drumului eroinei spre maturizare și înțelegere.
O lectură plină de energie, emoții amestecate și cunoaștere. “Șapte scrisori” este un roman deosebit.
Kate Moreton ajunge în Irlanda în cadrul unui proiect de cercetare, fascinată fiind de poveștile tatălui ei despre Irlanda natală.
Aici îl întâlnește pe Ozzie, un tip relaxat și boem ce ascunde răni ale unui trecut care încă îl bântuie... Afganistan.
Se îndrăgostesc, se căsătoresc și decid să facă o călătorie în jurul Irlandei cu barca... Doar că, în timpul unei furtuni din care abia scapă, tânăra este convinsă că bărbatul i-a pus viața în pericol deliberat...
De aici, drumurile lor se despart, fiecare trăindu-și viața separat, pierd legătura, deși încă mai sunt căsătoriți. Până într-o zi când Kate primește un telefon de la bunica lui Ozzie, care-i spune că acesta s-a scufundat cu barca pe coasta Siciliei și se presupune că este mort.
Se pare că zicala conform căreia, abia când pierzi pe cineva înveți să îl apreciezi, este adevărată! După dispariția lui Ozzie, Kate face cercetări în privința acestuia și constată că niciodată nu l-a cunoscut cu adevărat. Ceea ce află despre el o face să înțeleagă altfel trecutul și să realizeze că a greșit atunci când l-a părăsit.
J. P. Monninger redă nu doar atmosfera locurilor pe care le vizităm alături de Kate, ci ne poartă în lumea academică, în cercetarea trecutului istoric. Pe langăfaptul că avem parte de emoții și sentimente diferite, specifice anumitor etape ale vieții, menite să ofere cititorului o hartă clară a drumului eroinei spre maturizare și înțelegere.
O lectură plină de energie, emoții amestecate și cunoaștere. “Șapte scrisori” este un roman deosebit.
May 9, 2019
I knew when I picked this book up I was going to get "all the feels" from it, and what's more I was going to let it happen. That says a lot. I don't do romance novels. I read them on occasion, but I keep my emotional distance.
My life has had all the romance it can handle, with the resulting joy, the pain of loss, the nostalgia, the growth, all of it. I don't want to read it. I've lived it. I already had the best life and love could give. It's not going to come for me again, not at my time of life, and I don't let those feelings out of the box for some headstrong, buxom governess panting over the brooding earl.
In other words, the story must hold a treasure beyond heaving breasts and throbbing male members.
"Seven Letters" has that treasure. Kate Morton is a living, breathing, worthy character outside of her love for Ozzie Ferriter, whom she meets while doing research on Ireland. She has to be. The two of them crash into each other and recoil again and again from their first meeting. But each time they come together a bit of each of them rubs off and begins to create a new person, one neither of them recognizes.
Kate realizes she does not know this man she married, yes married(!) on a whim. Who does that? (Well, I did, and it turned out to be the love of a lifetime, so you never know.)
She does what many of us would do. She runs.
She recreates her life. Again. It's good. Really. It is. She even has a new man, whom she can't marry because she is still technically married to Ozzie. But, that's a minor thing.
Then she gets a phone call from Ireland and her world falls apart.
I received this book free from St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review on Goodreads.
My life has had all the romance it can handle, with the resulting joy, the pain of loss, the nostalgia, the growth, all of it. I don't want to read it. I've lived it. I already had the best life and love could give. It's not going to come for me again, not at my time of life, and I don't let those feelings out of the box for some headstrong, buxom governess panting over the brooding earl.
In other words, the story must hold a treasure beyond heaving breasts and throbbing male members.
"Seven Letters" has that treasure. Kate Morton is a living, breathing, worthy character outside of her love for Ozzie Ferriter, whom she meets while doing research on Ireland. She has to be. The two of them crash into each other and recoil again and again from their first meeting. But each time they come together a bit of each of them rubs off and begins to create a new person, one neither of them recognizes.
Kate realizes she does not know this man she married, yes married(!) on a whim. Who does that? (Well, I did, and it turned out to be the love of a lifetime, so you never know.)
She does what many of us would do. She runs.
She recreates her life. Again. It's good. Really. It is. She even has a new man, whom she can't marry because she is still technically married to Ozzie. But, that's a minor thing.
Then she gets a phone call from Ireland and her world falls apart.
I received this book free from St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review on Goodreads.
March 29, 2019
Not typically the genre I go for but I had the chance to read this and I'm so glad I did. I was totally drawn in by the setting, Ireland's just one of those magical places I always want to read about. The story was romantic and heart wrenching at times. It's one of those stories where you're literally pages from the end thinking despite everything it's ending one way but then you're surprised. If romance is your genre I definitely recommend giving this a read and even if it isn't if you were interested enough to read this review I'd give it a go, like me you might find yourself pleasantly surprised at how much you like this book!
September 27, 2019
This was an incredibly moving book. All about love and loss in a unique story that I literally couldn’t put down.
April 30, 2019
And now comes the hard part. Finding the words for a review. I enjoyed this book tremendously, but not in the traditional sense. It was slow - much more a character driven story. The writing was phenomenal. I could see every sight clearly. I could taste the sea air. I could feel the chill in the air. This is the story of Kate, who ends up in Ireland to write a research thesis (or dissertation, or one of the college-y things). She ends up meeting some pretty amazing characters, Ozzie being one of them. They quickly fall in love, consumed by each other and the bubble they've built around them. But they don't really know each other. Ozzie carries some baggage from time he spent in Afghanistan and some of the thing he saw and did. He hasn't shared that with anyone, Kate included, but just keeps it deep inside him. Things happen (trying to keep this spoiler free) and Kate and Ozzie decide they are better apart. During this time, Kate has a few revelations about life and what it means to love. But it may be too little too late. If you like beautiful writing, if you like an intelligent story, if you like wistful romance, this one is definitely for you.
October 18, 2019
I think the time has come for me to accept that JP Monninger is probably not an author for me. Years ago, I loved this style of book (very Nicholas Sparks-esque on the romance scale - another writer who I've also given up on in recent years) but these sad, troubled, drawn out romances just don't work for me anymore. Monninger is a beautiful writer and his books certainly reflect that, but the plot and pacing unfortunately lose me.
There are many romance readers who loved this book and I know I am in the minority, so I hope other readers will consider multiple reviews as well as think about what styles they like best before tossing it aside based solely on me!
Thank you to St. Martins for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
There are many romance readers who loved this book and I know I am in the minority, so I hope other readers will consider multiple reviews as well as think about what styles they like best before tossing it aside based solely on me!
Thank you to St. Martins for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
January 18, 2021
The first half was a relaxed, enjoyable read. The second half, I read straight through without putting the book down once. I had mixed feelings about the hero early on, which I think the author intended. And further in, I began to have mixed feelings about the heroine. Ozzie and Kate are complicated characters with real flaws, but ultimately, it's those flaws that bring them to life. Seven Letters is an adventure from start to finish, and another great recommendation from my book whisperer!
December 9, 2019
La storia é abbastanza originale,purtroppo lo stile di questo autore non mi ha convinto...ho trovato tutto abbastanza impersonale,poca emozione,poca empatia con e tra i personaggi,abbastanza frettoloso in alcune scene che a mio parere per la complessità delle vicende meritavano più attenzione.
Insomma in una parola, superficiale.
Insomma in una parola, superficiale.
September 30, 2019
Be still my heart! So many words to describe how I felt while reading this book, after reading this book. Maybe beguiled, captivated, charmed, mesmerized. This book spoke to my heart, to my very own fascination with Ireland and reminded me of my LONG AGO trek to this enchanting land. It reminded me of what I wanted to be when I grew up, a historian. A dream set aside for the practicality of life. But I have no regrets and now J.P. Monninger has shared this GEM of a story, I felt as though I lived a bit of it through Kate Moreton. Kate is a brave and passionate woman matched with a brave and passionate man in Ozzie - but Ozzie is a very broken man. A man trying to outrun (out-sail in his case) his demons all while falling deeply and irrevocably in love.
Having traveled to Ireland as a part of her dissertation work, Kate is immediately transported to the subject of her work, the people on the now-vacated Blasket Islands. When she meets Ozzie she really has no idea how much this will change her life, and the spark of physical attraction can't be ignored. Theirs is a whirlwind romance, one that the reader feels in their heart and soul. For me, it had the essence of an EPIC love story; all-consuming, beautiful, soulful and at times, tumultuous. While change is inevitable, Ozzie doesn't manage it well. We start to see how he struggles with his past, experiences neither Kate nor the reader is privy too. They experience happiness and heartbreak, leading Kate to a decision that resets their course.
As the letters are shared, you'll come to expect the unexpected. A healthy part of the book had me on tenterhooks. Ready to cry at any moment. Through Kate's eyes, we understand the deep pang of grief and regret she feels. That try, as she might, moving on is agonizing and seemingly impossible. I grappled with her decisions which is, I believe, exactly what Monninger intended. We take quite the trip with Kate, as she sets out to uncover the truth, to come to terms with the past and present, to be able to heal.
Monninger's writing is prolific, insightful and contains details that indicate experience and/or a great amount of research. The details capture the essence of the characters and places. This is a character-driven story that is rich and deep in their narratives. Kate really is at the center, as the story is through her eyes, and even though she falters at completely considering a 360 view, it's understandable. She has to protect her heart. The cast of characters that support Kate and Ozzie adds so much to the story, drive the pace and the plotline forward.
As I've said this book was all-consuming. I've often seen reviewers say a book as addicting, and all I could think was sure I've read plenty of books that captivate me. But not often do I find myself putting off real life, clamoring to get back to the story as I did with this. There was absolutely no way I was sleeping until I finished. I guess I was addicted. I needed to see their story through to the end. Considering the range of feelings I experienced, what I feared for Kate, I couldn't be happier with how it ended. This is a 5++ star read and one that I HIGHLY recommend.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Having traveled to Ireland as a part of her dissertation work, Kate is immediately transported to the subject of her work, the people on the now-vacated Blasket Islands. When she meets Ozzie she really has no idea how much this will change her life, and the spark of physical attraction can't be ignored. Theirs is a whirlwind romance, one that the reader feels in their heart and soul. For me, it had the essence of an EPIC love story; all-consuming, beautiful, soulful and at times, tumultuous. While change is inevitable, Ozzie doesn't manage it well. We start to see how he struggles with his past, experiences neither Kate nor the reader is privy too. They experience happiness and heartbreak, leading Kate to a decision that resets their course.
As the letters are shared, you'll come to expect the unexpected. A healthy part of the book had me on tenterhooks. Ready to cry at any moment. Through Kate's eyes, we understand the deep pang of grief and regret she feels. That try, as she might, moving on is agonizing and seemingly impossible. I grappled with her decisions which is, I believe, exactly what Monninger intended. We take quite the trip with Kate, as she sets out to uncover the truth, to come to terms with the past and present, to be able to heal.
Monninger's writing is prolific, insightful and contains details that indicate experience and/or a great amount of research. The details capture the essence of the characters and places. This is a character-driven story that is rich and deep in their narratives. Kate really is at the center, as the story is through her eyes, and even though she falters at completely considering a 360 view, it's understandable. She has to protect her heart. The cast of characters that support Kate and Ozzie adds so much to the story, drive the pace and the plotline forward.
As I've said this book was all-consuming. I've often seen reviewers say a book as addicting, and all I could think was sure I've read plenty of books that captivate me. But not often do I find myself putting off real life, clamoring to get back to the story as I did with this. There was absolutely no way I was sleeping until I finished. I guess I was addicted. I needed to see their story through to the end. Considering the range of feelings I experienced, what I feared for Kate, I couldn't be happier with how it ended. This is a 5++ star read and one that I HIGHLY recommend.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
October 10, 2019
Seven Letters was a contemporary love story and I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed in J.P. Monninger's words. I was captivated from the outset and remained engrossed throughout this tale with its themes of love, loss and regrets. It was a story of self evaluation, reflection and ultimately of hope and redemption.
Kate Moreton, the central character, was beginning a 12 month research project for her dissertation centred on the Blasket Islands off the south west coast of Ireland. Not only was she discovering the sheer beauty of Ireland and her fathers beloved homeland, but this was also a journey of self discovery.
Without going into too many details for fear of spoiling the story, Kate met and fell in love with Ozzie Ferriter, a local fisherman recently returned from serving in the US Navy and doing his part in the Afghanistan war. Theirs was a deep love but it was not without its challenges. Ozzie carried dark secrets home from the war and he would not relinquish his burden of guilt. Whilst at sea with Ozzie a fierce storm caused Kate to re-evaluate her priorities particularly what she wanted from her relationship. However it was only after a tragedy that she began to appreciate the value of the man she had so easily let go. Kate goes through a grieving process and there is no small measure of regret. But the story has an element of hope too as the author touches upon the Syrian refugee crisis and the ways some people have done their part to help the children and families impacted.
Each of the characters and relationships were well developed and provided food for thought. I reflected on some of the hard truths Kate learned and applied them to those things I value most in life.
In the Acknowledgements the author wrote "All novels are co-created in the pen of the writer and the mind of the reader. Thanks for listening to my story. It was my pleasure and I too give thanks to J.P.Monninger, St Martin's Griffin and NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
P.S.
This author has me intrigued and somewhat impressed. Kate was a thoroughly convincing female character and I'd have sworn she was written by another woman, perhaps based upon the authors own experiences. Not so it seems as J.P Monninger also writes as Joseph Monninger. Kudos on transcending gender boundaries and bringing Kate to life as you did.
Kate Moreton, the central character, was beginning a 12 month research project for her dissertation centred on the Blasket Islands off the south west coast of Ireland. Not only was she discovering the sheer beauty of Ireland and her fathers beloved homeland, but this was also a journey of self discovery.
Without going into too many details for fear of spoiling the story, Kate met and fell in love with Ozzie Ferriter, a local fisherman recently returned from serving in the US Navy and doing his part in the Afghanistan war. Theirs was a deep love but it was not without its challenges. Ozzie carried dark secrets home from the war and he would not relinquish his burden of guilt. Whilst at sea with Ozzie a fierce storm caused Kate to re-evaluate her priorities particularly what she wanted from her relationship. However it was only after a tragedy that she began to appreciate the value of the man she had so easily let go. Kate goes through a grieving process and there is no small measure of regret. But the story has an element of hope too as the author touches upon the Syrian refugee crisis and the ways some people have done their part to help the children and families impacted.
Each of the characters and relationships were well developed and provided food for thought. I reflected on some of the hard truths Kate learned and applied them to those things I value most in life.
In the Acknowledgements the author wrote "All novels are co-created in the pen of the writer and the mind of the reader. Thanks for listening to my story. It was my pleasure and I too give thanks to J.P.Monninger, St Martin's Griffin and NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
P.S.
This author has me intrigued and somewhat impressed. Kate was a thoroughly convincing female character and I'd have sworn she was written by another woman, perhaps based upon the authors own experiences. Not so it seems as J.P Monninger also writes as Joseph Monninger. Kudos on transcending gender boundaries and bringing Kate to life as you did.
October 11, 2019
You can also read this review on my blog illbefinealonereads.
A huge thanks to St. Martin's Press for the chance to be a part of this blog tour.
As you might know by now, the mere mention of Ireland is enough for me to be highly interested in a book. This time however, it wasn’t only that, it was also my prior experience with J.P. Monninger’s writing that had me excited to pick up Seven Letters.
I loved the story it had to offer. It had a few twists in it, but it was heartwarming. I thought it was beautifully executed, I really enjoyed how it was laid out and paced. It was so well written, the descriptions of Ireland were masterful, and so vivid that they jumped from the page. The relationships set between the characters felt dynamic, which made the book even more entertaining.
I was engrossed in the book from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down, eager to find out what happened next. It’s an excellent romance read that you should definitely pick up.
*Copy received through NetGalley
*Rating 4/5 stars
YOU CAN FOLLOW ME ON: MY BLOG | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER
A huge thanks to St. Martin's Press for the chance to be a part of this blog tour.
As you might know by now, the mere mention of Ireland is enough for me to be highly interested in a book. This time however, it wasn’t only that, it was also my prior experience with J.P. Monninger’s writing that had me excited to pick up Seven Letters.
I loved the story it had to offer. It had a few twists in it, but it was heartwarming. I thought it was beautifully executed, I really enjoyed how it was laid out and paced. It was so well written, the descriptions of Ireland were masterful, and so vivid that they jumped from the page. The relationships set between the characters felt dynamic, which made the book even more entertaining.
I was engrossed in the book from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down, eager to find out what happened next. It’s an excellent romance read that you should definitely pick up.
*Copy received through NetGalley
*Rating 4/5 stars
YOU CAN FOLLOW ME ON: MY BLOG | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER
December 3, 2019
4.75 Stars!!
A number of years ago I randomly picked up a book called Whippoorwill and started reading while waiting for a friend. That friend's appearance was the only reason I set it down. I had been immediately drawn into the fabulous writing and since then, I've made it a habit to read each new release by this author. I haven't been disappointed yet.
After reading the blurb, I knew that I was going to fall in love with Seven Letters, but I hadn't realized how much. I was taken in by the beautiful prose, creative imagery, and evocative storytelling. This had all the makings of fantastic women's fiction, but then strengthened by the passionate romance between Ozzie and Kate. I was caught up in their whirlwind as much as they were and then equally devastated, elated, heartbroken, and healed. So many emotions. There was a point in the book just after 80% where the pacing slowed with some extraneous and unnecessary information, but it picked back up quickly and moved right along to a powerful and rewarding ending. That blip was almost not worth mentioning, since overall, it was another fabulous story by this author. I'm still determined to read his back list, but until then, I will look forward to every new release.
September 16, 2019
Welp, I am stumped.
I am going to start by saying I am giving this book three and a half stars. I enjoyed it.
Was it the best thing I have ever read....no. You might ask, why is that Amy? I don't know. I truly don't know.
*The setting was lovely.
*The characters were explained well.
*I liked the characters.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I did not, however fall in love with the story.
I also did not enjoy the ending it wrapped up a little too nicely for me.
Ok, one more thing if you are going to name a book Seven Letters....those letters do not need to be introduced at the half way point. That is a lot of letters to get through.
I think maybe part of it was I kept waiting for something to happen...and then when I did, I kinda already knew what was going to happen...I know. Super clear lol.
I am going to conclude that the synopsis gave away too much. If you are planning on reading this...go in blind. Very, very blind.
Overall. I would read the author again. .
I am going to start by saying I am giving this book three and a half stars. I enjoyed it.
Was it the best thing I have ever read....no. You might ask, why is that Amy? I don't know. I truly don't know.
*The setting was lovely.
*The characters were explained well.
*I liked the characters.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I did not, however fall in love with the story.
I also did not enjoy the ending it wrapped up a little too nicely for me.
Ok, one more thing if you are going to name a book Seven Letters....those letters do not need to be introduced at the half way point. That is a lot of letters to get through.
I think maybe part of it was I kept waiting for something to happen...and then when I did, I kinda already knew what was going to happen...I know. Super clear lol.
I am going to conclude that the synopsis gave away too much. If you are planning on reading this...go in blind. Very, very blind.
Overall. I would read the author again. .
June 12, 2020
Nu mi-a plăcut la fel de mult ca Harta care mă duce la tine și chiar m-a dezamăgit puțin, pentru că nu am mai găsit nimic din ce m-a impresionat în romanul menționat. Poate și așteptările au fost prea mari.
October 6, 2019
In this touching story by J. P. Monninger, Kate Moreton Has taken a sabbatical and is visiting Ireland. She is a New Englander and what she hopes to accomplish on this trip brings her a mixture of joy and sadness.
When Kate first meets Ozzie Ferriter, a fisherman there, and also a man that is a war veteran, he touches her heart. However Ozzie has an innate sadness that love cannot even conquer.
Ozzie and Kate spent an idyllic time together but things eventually fall apart. Kate feels she has no choice but to return home to leave Ozzie to fight his battles. However something happens that changes Kate’s entire outlook and ultimately her life.
Whenever you read a story with a character that has been affected by war, it is very hard not to be drawn into it. Such is the case with this thought-provoking book. As much is this story dealt with Ozzie’s situation, Kate’s story held quite a bit of depth that kept me turning pages.
The ending of the story was really, really good. I expected one thing and got another, and I applaud the author for keeping me at the edge of my seat page after page. I look forward to reading more by him in the future.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s for this book for review. This is my honest opinion.
When Kate first meets Ozzie Ferriter, a fisherman there, and also a man that is a war veteran, he touches her heart. However Ozzie has an innate sadness that love cannot even conquer.
Ozzie and Kate spent an idyllic time together but things eventually fall apart. Kate feels she has no choice but to return home to leave Ozzie to fight his battles. However something happens that changes Kate’s entire outlook and ultimately her life.
Whenever you read a story with a character that has been affected by war, it is very hard not to be drawn into it. Such is the case with this thought-provoking book. As much is this story dealt with Ozzie’s situation, Kate’s story held quite a bit of depth that kept me turning pages.
The ending of the story was really, really good. I expected one thing and got another, and I applaud the author for keeping me at the edge of my seat page after page. I look forward to reading more by him in the future.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s for this book for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 18, 2019
First of all, there is Irish in our family so for that sake, I thoroughly enjoyed the story that of Irish heritage, culture and scenery. The story had a very calming peaceful vibe to it. This is a romance (not my normal genre of reading) but I almost felt it more of a romance or love affair with the land and its history, than a love story between people.
Like the ferries that transport the visitors to the Blasket Islands, I got swept up in the ebb and flow of the story and longed for more historical insight than was given. The first part of the story drug a bit for me but finally picked up about half-way. I saw on the cover that this story is soon to be a motion picture and I long to see the breathtaking landscapes described within its pages on screen.
I found the book entertaining, the writing style smooth and flawless but I never got that "bite" I look for in a story that just reels you in like fish on fresh bait.
I received this book free of charge for an honest review. Thank you Goodreads for the opportunity to receive an ARC.
Like the ferries that transport the visitors to the Blasket Islands, I got swept up in the ebb and flow of the story and longed for more historical insight than was given. The first part of the story drug a bit for me but finally picked up about half-way. I saw on the cover that this story is soon to be a motion picture and I long to see the breathtaking landscapes described within its pages on screen.
I found the book entertaining, the writing style smooth and flawless but I never got that "bite" I look for in a story that just reels you in like fish on fresh bait.
I received this book free of charge for an honest review. Thank you Goodreads for the opportunity to receive an ARC.
October 21, 2019
Miei cari lettori,
oggi vi faccio fare un bel viaggio nel paese dei folletti e delle fate. Eh sì! Si parte per l’Irlanda. Lì, tra paesaggi mozzafiato e rovine abbandonate che rendono ancora più suggestiva l’atmosfera, due personalità agli antipodi s'incontreranno e vivranno la loro storia d’amore.
Tutto ha inizio con un viaggio che la nostra protagonista Kate Moreton, dottoranda alla Dartmouth, intraprende per scrivere la sua tesi e che la porterà nel suo luogo del cuore: l’Irlanda e in particolare le isole Blasket, luogo impervio oramai abbandonato ma che conserva ancora tra i vecchi ruderi la storia della popolazione che vi abitava. Una storia che Kate sente sua come non mai.
Per la recensione completa seguiteci qui:
http://tuttacolpadeilibri.blogspot.co...
oggi vi faccio fare un bel viaggio nel paese dei folletti e delle fate. Eh sì! Si parte per l’Irlanda. Lì, tra paesaggi mozzafiato e rovine abbandonate che rendono ancora più suggestiva l’atmosfera, due personalità agli antipodi s'incontreranno e vivranno la loro storia d’amore.
Tutto ha inizio con un viaggio che la nostra protagonista Kate Moreton, dottoranda alla Dartmouth, intraprende per scrivere la sua tesi e che la porterà nel suo luogo del cuore: l’Irlanda e in particolare le isole Blasket, luogo impervio oramai abbandonato ma che conserva ancora tra i vecchi ruderi la storia della popolazione che vi abitava. Una storia che Kate sente sua come non mai.
Per la recensione completa seguiteci qui:
http://tuttacolpadeilibri.blogspot.co...
October 14, 2019
I received a free electronic copy of this novel On August 4, 2019, from Netgalley, J. P. Monninger, and St. Martins Press - Griffin. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read this novel of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest personal opinion of this work. This is a book I will want to read again, by an author I will follow.
Kate Moreton is a member of the teaching staff at Dartmouth working on her dissertation, a close family history of the settlement of the Blasket Islands off the south and west coasts of Ireland, and then the removal of those settlers by the Irish Land Commission in 1953. She has received a scholarship that will allow her to spend a semester in that area, doing research and taking oral histories to add those stories of her father, deceased these last 4 years, and the memories and histories of the enclave of Blasket Islanders who immigrated and settled, along with her family, in the Springfield/Chicopee areas of Massachusetts. She has already a lot of information and feels that a few months on the site will finish her work, and she can move on.
J. P. Monninger takes us to those isles, that isolated part of Ireland, her words providing a clear picture of that area, making real the heartbreak being removed from those islands and that way of life was for her family and others. Kate meets many interesting people on her travels to Dingle Peninsula, the dropping off place for the Islands. Most notably she is touched by ancient Nora Crean and her sidekick Shamus. Not to mention Nora's grandson Ozzie Ferriter, a fellow American and military veteran who recently served in Afghanistan. Already she is feeling immersed in the lore that is Ireland. From Dingle, she makes her way to the University of Limerick, where she will live in a small apartment and have a free hand at the associated library to work on her research. It is summer, so many of the carrels at the library are not being used, but Kate gets along well with the occasional drop-in and finds herself with growing friendships among the staff at the university. And then she meets again Ozzie and finds herself falling hard, almost against her will, for this troubled man. And as are most who love those deeply damaged by war, she cannot find a way to reach him, help him, even understand him.
But once back home, neither can she forget him. This is an excellent novel with much information and interaction with the refugee problems in Europe and Africa, an exceptional look at what can and cannot be done to help those refugees find asylum, all tied up in an interesting tour of New England Winter and Italy's involvement in the Syrian crisis. It sounds complicated, but it all folds together through seven letters, to and from various protagonists. This is a special read.
pub date October 8th, 2019
St. Martin's Griffin
Reviewed October 14, 2019, at Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes & Noble, BookBub, Kobo and GooglePlay.
Kate Moreton is a member of the teaching staff at Dartmouth working on her dissertation, a close family history of the settlement of the Blasket Islands off the south and west coasts of Ireland, and then the removal of those settlers by the Irish Land Commission in 1953. She has received a scholarship that will allow her to spend a semester in that area, doing research and taking oral histories to add those stories of her father, deceased these last 4 years, and the memories and histories of the enclave of Blasket Islanders who immigrated and settled, along with her family, in the Springfield/Chicopee areas of Massachusetts. She has already a lot of information and feels that a few months on the site will finish her work, and she can move on.
J. P. Monninger takes us to those isles, that isolated part of Ireland, her words providing a clear picture of that area, making real the heartbreak being removed from those islands and that way of life was for her family and others. Kate meets many interesting people on her travels to Dingle Peninsula, the dropping off place for the Islands. Most notably she is touched by ancient Nora Crean and her sidekick Shamus. Not to mention Nora's grandson Ozzie Ferriter, a fellow American and military veteran who recently served in Afghanistan. Already she is feeling immersed in the lore that is Ireland. From Dingle, she makes her way to the University of Limerick, where she will live in a small apartment and have a free hand at the associated library to work on her research. It is summer, so many of the carrels at the library are not being used, but Kate gets along well with the occasional drop-in and finds herself with growing friendships among the staff at the university. And then she meets again Ozzie and finds herself falling hard, almost against her will, for this troubled man. And as are most who love those deeply damaged by war, she cannot find a way to reach him, help him, even understand him.
But once back home, neither can she forget him. This is an excellent novel with much information and interaction with the refugee problems in Europe and Africa, an exceptional look at what can and cannot be done to help those refugees find asylum, all tied up in an interesting tour of New England Winter and Italy's involvement in the Syrian crisis. It sounds complicated, but it all folds together through seven letters, to and from various protagonists. This is a special read.
pub date October 8th, 2019
St. Martin's Griffin
Reviewed October 14, 2019, at Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes & Noble, BookBub, Kobo and GooglePlay.
December 12, 2021
Das Buch konnte mich nicht wirklich begeistern und ich gebe dem Klappentext die Schuld dafür. Vermutlich haben die Verfasser sich gedacht, der Anfang vom Buch sei zu langweilig, man nehme lieber etwas aus der Mitte. Das gesamte erste Drittel dümpelt also vor sich her, bis dann im zweiten Drittel die Handlung richtig beginnt und erst im letzten Drittel geht man über den Klappentext hinaus, sodass man sogar mal überrascht werden könnte.
Nach dem langsamen Start konnte mich das Buch einfach nicht mehr packen. Im Klappentext klingt es etwas spontaner und nach plötzlicher Liebe, aber eigentlich will Kate das am Anfang gar nicht. Ihre Dissertation liegt ihr sehr am Herzen und sie möchte sich nicht ablenken lassen, sie hat Verantwortungen und dazu weiß sie auch nicht, was sie von Ozzie halten soll.
Erkundungen, Beschreibungen und kleine Geschichten rund um die Gegend nehmen das erste Drittel ein, auch wenn es die in allen anderen Abschnitten auch gibt, nur eben eher als Kulisse, was mir schon viel besser gefiel. In diesem Teil passiert auch noch nicht besonders viel zwischen Kate und Ozzie, und wenn doch, kam alles sehr steif rüber und konnte mich überhaupt nicht überzeugen. Vor allem Ozzie sendet widersprüchliche Signale, da fand ich ihn einfach anstrengend. Die beiden vermitteln einfach überhaupt keine Romantik und ich habe hinterfragt, warum diese beiden überhaupt heiraten sollten, weil man überhaupt keine Chemie spürt.
Fazit
Ich denke, mit einem anderen Klappentext hätte mir "Unsere Liebe für immer" besser gefallen können. Es gibt schöne Bilder von Irland und manchmal wird es auch tiefsinnig, aber die Liebesgeschichte wirkte auf mich absolut steif und konnte mich überhaupt nicht überzeugen. Schade!
Nach dem langsamen Start konnte mich das Buch einfach nicht mehr packen. Im Klappentext klingt es etwas spontaner und nach plötzlicher Liebe, aber eigentlich will Kate das am Anfang gar nicht. Ihre Dissertation liegt ihr sehr am Herzen und sie möchte sich nicht ablenken lassen, sie hat Verantwortungen und dazu weiß sie auch nicht, was sie von Ozzie halten soll.
Erkundungen, Beschreibungen und kleine Geschichten rund um die Gegend nehmen das erste Drittel ein, auch wenn es die in allen anderen Abschnitten auch gibt, nur eben eher als Kulisse, was mir schon viel besser gefiel. In diesem Teil passiert auch noch nicht besonders viel zwischen Kate und Ozzie, und wenn doch, kam alles sehr steif rüber und konnte mich überhaupt nicht überzeugen. Vor allem Ozzie sendet widersprüchliche Signale, da fand ich ihn einfach anstrengend. Die beiden vermitteln einfach überhaupt keine Romantik und ich habe hinterfragt, warum diese beiden überhaupt heiraten sollten, weil man überhaupt keine Chemie spürt.
Fazit
Ich denke, mit einem anderen Klappentext hätte mir "Unsere Liebe für immer" besser gefallen können. Es gibt schöne Bilder von Irland und manchmal wird es auch tiefsinnig, aber die Liebesgeschichte wirkte auf mich absolut steif und konnte mich überhaupt nicht überzeugen. Schade!
April 20, 2019
Seven Letters by J. P. Menninger
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I don’t like to give negative reviews but this book was just not what I expected. Kate, a doctoral student at Dartmouth goes to Ireland to research the history of Blasket Islands. She immediately falls in love with Ozzie, a fisherman and marries him after knowing him just a few days or maybe weeks. Then, when things don’t go her way, she leaves him and goes back to the US. The story picks up two years later, when Kate goes searching for Ozzie, who disappeared and feared dead off the coast of Italy. Instead she does some sight seeing in Rome with her best friend. Give me a break. I didn’t like Kate’s poor decisions, I also would have liked more of Ozzie’s character developed. This story didn’t hold my attention, often found it boring, I only finished it to be able to write a review.
Thanks NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the advanced copy.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I don’t like to give negative reviews but this book was just not what I expected. Kate, a doctoral student at Dartmouth goes to Ireland to research the history of Blasket Islands. She immediately falls in love with Ozzie, a fisherman and marries him after knowing him just a few days or maybe weeks. Then, when things don’t go her way, she leaves him and goes back to the US. The story picks up two years later, when Kate goes searching for Ozzie, who disappeared and feared dead off the coast of Italy. Instead she does some sight seeing in Rome with her best friend. Give me a break. I didn’t like Kate’s poor decisions, I also would have liked more of Ozzie’s character developed. This story didn’t hold my attention, often found it boring, I only finished it to be able to write a review.
Thanks NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the advanced copy.
April 17, 2019
I'm not normally one to read romance novels but the setting of Ireland made me sign up for the giveaway on goodreads and I won. It really does make you think about choices you thought you made for reasons that seemed right for a future and career and the luckiness to be given a second chance. I really loved the whole book and can understand the drive to search for any answer when it comes to looking for them during a period of grief. This book is one that will stay with me for years to come.
April 27, 2019
I received this book as an arc, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it. J. P. Monninger's writing is truly beautiful and poetic. I could visualize Kate and Ozzie's Ireland, and their adventures at sea while falling deeper in love with these characters who are impulsive and spontaneous. This is a story of love and youth, trusting your instincts, and spending so much time in your own head, that you don't see the real treasure that is right in front of you until you lose it.
April 12, 2019
An absolutely phenomenal book. The descriptions of Ireland are beautiful, far better than many I have read from other popular authors. The story of Kate, the main character, takes many twists and turns as she grows into a true adult. This was my first book by J. P. Monninger but I am definitely going to get her previous one.
July 16, 2020
How to explain this story? Truly a unusual story...as I was reading this, I actually wasn’t sure what to make of it. Lots of sadness and heartache but, also, lots of love and hope.
I loved the descriptions of the scenery and the love between Kate and Ozzie. At times the story seems to just stall and then it would jump forward in time.
Overall, I enjoyed the book but it didn’t wow me.
I loved the descriptions of the scenery and the love between Kate and Ozzie. At times the story seems to just stall and then it would jump forward in time.
Overall, I enjoyed the book but it didn’t wow me.
October 13, 2019
This is not the normal kind of romance I read, but I admit to mostly enjoying it. Deeply layered and substantial characters, both Kate and Ozzie are, but I cannot say that I liked her much, nor did I feel connected to Ozzie, since his voice wasn't really present enough for my tastes. I thought the beautiful descriptions of the Irish countryside and all the history helped round out the story, but perhaps the slightly too wordy prose slowed down the pace too much. Still, I did end up finding it interesting and I loved the ending, even though I saw it coming a mile away.
ARC via St. Martin's Press for an honest review.
Blog tour/review: Live Through Books Blog.
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December 24, 2019
I was a bit disappointed in JP Monninger's "Seven Letters" after devouring "The Map That Leads to You." The writing itself, is poetic and beautiful, but the plot, at times, pushed credulity and seemed contrived. Still, because every sentence was pitch perfect and gorgeous, I kept reading. It's set in Ireland, where the young female protagonist travels to write a book, taking time from her teaching at Dartmouth College. While in Ireland, she meets a cast of characters, one of whom is destined to changer her life forever. Good escape reading, lush descriptions of beauty, with a trip to Italy thrown into the plot for good measure, this is a book to enjoy, but you probably shouldn't expect it to be completely satisfying.
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