What do you think?
Rate this book
The Secrets of Love Story Bridge
A single father gets an unexpected second chance at love in the heartwarming new novel from the author of
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper
It’s summer in the city and passions are soaring along with the temperature—for everyone but Mitchell Fisher, who hates all things romance. He relishes his job cutting off the padlocks that couples fasten to the famous “love story” bridge. Only his young daughter, Poppy, knows that behind his prickly veneer, Mitchell still grieves the loss of her mother.
Then one hot day, everything changes when Mitchell courageously rescues a woman who falls from the bridge into the river. He’s surprised to feel an unexpected connection to her, but she disappears before he can ask her name. Desperate to find out her identity, Mitchell is shocked to learn she’s been missing for almost a year. He teams up with her spirited sister, Liza, on a quest to find her again. However, she’s left only one clue behind—a message on the padlock she hung on the bridge.
Brimming with Phaedra Patrick’s signature charm and a sparkling cast of characters, The Secrets of Love Story Bridge follows one man’s journey to unlock his heart and discover new beginnings in the unlikeliest places.
It’s summer in the city and passions are soaring along with the temperature—for everyone but Mitchell Fisher, who hates all things romance. He relishes his job cutting off the padlocks that couples fasten to the famous “love story” bridge. Only his young daughter, Poppy, knows that behind his prickly veneer, Mitchell still grieves the loss of her mother.
Then one hot day, everything changes when Mitchell courageously rescues a woman who falls from the bridge into the river. He’s surprised to feel an unexpected connection to her, but she disappears before he can ask her name. Desperate to find out her identity, Mitchell is shocked to learn she’s been missing for almost a year. He teams up with her spirited sister, Liza, on a quest to find her again. However, she’s left only one clue behind—a message on the padlock she hung on the bridge.
Brimming with Phaedra Patrick’s signature charm and a sparkling cast of characters, The Secrets of Love Story Bridge follows one man’s journey to unlock his heart and discover new beginnings in the unlikeliest places.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2020
274 people are currently reading
7194 people want to read
About the author
Phaedra Patrick
15 books3,110 followersPhaedra Patrick studied art and marketing and has worked as a stained glass artist, film festival organiser and communications manager. An award-winning short story writer, she now writes full time in Saddleworth where she lives with her family.
Her debut novel, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, was translated into over twenty languages worldwide and has been optioned by a major Hollywood film studio.
Her second novel, Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone (named Wishes Under the Willow Tree in the UK), has been made into a Hallmark Movie and will premiere on TV in Autumn 2021.
Her third novel is The Library of Lost and Found, and the fourth one is titled The Secrets of Love Story Bridge (The Secrets of Sunshine in the UK).
You can find out more about Phaedra and her books at www.phaedra-patrick.com including writing tips
Please follow her on:
www.facebook.com/phaedrapatrick
Twitter @phaedrapatrick
Instagram @PhaedraPatrick
Her debut novel, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, was translated into over twenty languages worldwide and has been optioned by a major Hollywood film studio.
Her second novel, Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone (named Wishes Under the Willow Tree in the UK), has been made into a Hallmark Movie and will premiere on TV in Autumn 2021.
Her third novel is The Library of Lost and Found, and the fourth one is titled The Secrets of Love Story Bridge (The Secrets of Sunshine in the UK).
You can find out more about Phaedra and her books at www.phaedra-patrick.com including writing tips
Please follow her on:
www.facebook.com/phaedrapatrick
Twitter @phaedrapatrick
Instagram @PhaedraPatrick
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 756 reviews
November 22, 2020
Quirky and charming. Phaedra Patrick has written another heartwarming feel good story. Mitchell no longer believes in romance, not after the loss of his beloved wife. He spends his days happily removing padlocks from bridges that people have left to express their love. Mitchell keeps his young daughter’s and his life regimented and structured. Then one day A woman in a yellow dress falls from the bridge and Mitchell jumps in to rescue her. He feels a connection between himself and the woman, but fails to get her name. In a strange coincidence it turns out that the woman is the sister of his daughter Poppy’s music teacher Liza, and she has been missing for over a year. Intrigued Mitchell decides to help Liza find her sister and in doing so he finds a better version of himself.
Such a delightful story. Mitchell was such a great character even in the beginning when he was a bit of a grump. His daughter Poppy was simply darling and I loved every bit of the book that she was in. The friendship that formed between Mitchell and Liza was wonderful. These were definitely two people that complemented one another. There was also a little side story that was kind of fun. There was a contest where people sent in letters about the hero jumping off the bridge, those were enjoyable to read along with Mitchell. The perfect feel good story for these unsettling times.
This book in emojis 🌉 🔒 🎼 ✉️
*** Big thank you to Harlequin for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Such a delightful story. Mitchell was such a great character even in the beginning when he was a bit of a grump. His daughter Poppy was simply darling and I loved every bit of the book that she was in. The friendship that formed between Mitchell and Liza was wonderful. These were definitely two people that complemented one another. There was also a little side story that was kind of fun. There was a contest where people sent in letters about the hero jumping off the bridge, those were enjoyable to read along with Mitchell. The perfect feel good story for these unsettling times.
This book in emojis 🌉 🔒 🎼 ✉️
*** Big thank you to Harlequin for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
May 13, 2023
Mitchell went from his job as an engineer to the job of removing padlocks placed by lovers on bridge railings and padlocks that were starting to weigh down the bridges.
Mitchell lived alone with his daughter since his wife died, and he had a difficult time making ends meet, keeping her entertained, and trying to not think about love since he still grieved for his wife.
One day as Mitchell was removing the padlocks, he saw a woman falling over the edge of the railing. He jumped in after her and rescued her.
Of course he didn't like the attention he received from his rescue, but he did keep thinking about this girl. His only regret was that he never got her name.
We follow Mitchell as he looks for this woman and finds out that her sister is his daughter’s music teacher and that she had disappeared a year ago. He then becomes involved in the family’s search for Yvette. He also finds out that there are some secrets in this family.
Besides helping the family search for Yvette, Mitchell is pulled into a journalist's story about his heroics when the journalist asked readers to write to him. His involvement is to read the hundreds of handwritten letters that have made their way to her desk.
Ms. Patrick has written another heartwarming book with characters you will fall in love with and a story line that will keep you turning the pages.
I always enjoy Ms. Patrick's books because they are uplifting and sweet.
THE SECRETS OF LOVE STORY BRIDGE will warm your heart just as all of her books.
A truly enjoyable read. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher and BookBrowse in exchange for an honest review.
Mitchell lived alone with his daughter since his wife died, and he had a difficult time making ends meet, keeping her entertained, and trying to not think about love since he still grieved for his wife.
One day as Mitchell was removing the padlocks, he saw a woman falling over the edge of the railing. He jumped in after her and rescued her.
Of course he didn't like the attention he received from his rescue, but he did keep thinking about this girl. His only regret was that he never got her name.
We follow Mitchell as he looks for this woman and finds out that her sister is his daughter’s music teacher and that she had disappeared a year ago. He then becomes involved in the family’s search for Yvette. He also finds out that there are some secrets in this family.
Besides helping the family search for Yvette, Mitchell is pulled into a journalist's story about his heroics when the journalist asked readers to write to him. His involvement is to read the hundreds of handwritten letters that have made their way to her desk.
Ms. Patrick has written another heartwarming book with characters you will fall in love with and a story line that will keep you turning the pages.
I always enjoy Ms. Patrick's books because they are uplifting and sweet.
THE SECRETS OF LOVE STORY BRIDGE will warm your heart just as all of her books.
A truly enjoyable read. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher and BookBrowse in exchange for an honest review.
Read
October 19, 2020Have you ever seen a padlock hung on a bridge or railing and wondered who left it there and what their story is? I’ve seen love locks everywhere from Paris to Gran Canaria, with messages and initials to signify love and loss.
These padlocks inspired my idea for The Secrets of Love Story Bridge. It tells the story of Mitchell Fisher who has given up all hope of romance, until one day he spies a woman on the famous Love Story Bridge. When he rescues her after she falls into the river, he’s surprised to feel an unexpected connection to her. But then she disappears leaving only one clue to her identity - a secret message on the padlock she left on love story bridge....
I hope you enjoy Mitchell’s story.
These padlocks inspired my idea for The Secrets of Love Story Bridge. It tells the story of Mitchell Fisher who has given up all hope of romance, until one day he spies a woman on the famous Love Story Bridge. When he rescues her after she falls into the river, he’s surprised to feel an unexpected connection to her. But then she disappears leaving only one clue to her identity - a secret message on the padlock she left on love story bridge....
I hope you enjoy Mitchell’s story.
May 1, 2022
1-1/2*
Very unlike “The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper” by this author which I read recently and really liked.
I couldn’t get a ‘feel’ for the characters in this book. I rather liked Arthur Pepper and expected a similar kind of person.
Mitchell immediately annoyed me for not opening and reading the letter left to him by his lover/girlfriend/partner/mother of his child/ who had died. I thought he was kind of an insensitive dolt.
Reading on I found no reason to change my opinion, not even when, eventually, he did read the letter.
By which time it was too little too late for me.
Then I saw where the author has reviewed her own book. How does that work? Who does that? Is it even allowed? I think it’s a rather shabby thing to do!!
However, to be clear I had already made up my mind about the book before I saw this.
The half star is because I actually read the book to the end.😪
Very unlike “The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper” by this author which I read recently and really liked.
I couldn’t get a ‘feel’ for the characters in this book. I rather liked Arthur Pepper and expected a similar kind of person.
Mitchell immediately annoyed me for not opening and reading the letter left to him by his lover/girlfriend/partner/mother of his child/ who had died. I thought he was kind of an insensitive dolt.
Reading on I found no reason to change my opinion, not even when, eventually, he did read the letter.
By which time it was too little too late for me.
Then I saw where the author has reviewed her own book. How does that work? Who does that? Is it even allowed? I think it’s a rather shabby thing to do!!
However, to be clear I had already made up my mind about the book before I saw this.
The half star is because I actually read the book to the end.😪
August 30, 2024
This is a feel-good story full of memorable characters and locations.
Patrick has a way of writing genuine characters that you grow to appreciate.
It is the kind of story you just want to crawl into and love because it is quirky, whimsical and engaging in a sweet sort of way.
With everything going on in the world, why not escape into a Hallmark movie, right?
Well, not quite like that, but, lovely escapism.
If you have read The Library of Lost and Found, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... or Rise and Shine , Benedict Stone, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... you will get what I mean about this author.
Patrick has a way of writing genuine characters that you grow to appreciate.
It is the kind of story you just want to crawl into and love because it is quirky, whimsical and engaging in a sweet sort of way.
With everything going on in the world, why not escape into a Hallmark movie, right?
Well, not quite like that, but, lovely escapism.
If you have read The Library of Lost and Found, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... or Rise and Shine , Benedict Stone, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... you will get what I mean about this author.
April 6, 2020
Have you ever seen a padlock hung on a bridge or railing and wondered who left it there and what their story is? I’ve seen love locks everywhere from Paris to Gran Canaria, with messages and initials to signify love and loss.
These padlocks inspired my idea for The Secrets of Sunshine. It tells the story of Mitchell Fisher who has given up all hope of romance, until one day he spies a woman on the famous Love Story Bridge. When he rescues her after she falls into the river, he’s surprised to feel an unexpected connection to her. But then she disappears leaving only one clue to her identity - a secret message on the padlock she left on love story bridge....
I hope you enjoy Mitchell’s story.
These padlocks inspired my idea for The Secrets of Sunshine. It tells the story of Mitchell Fisher who has given up all hope of romance, until one day he spies a woman on the famous Love Story Bridge. When he rescues her after she falls into the river, he’s surprised to feel an unexpected connection to her. But then she disappears leaving only one clue to her identity - a secret message on the padlock she left on love story bridge....
I hope you enjoy Mitchell’s story.
May 11, 2020
Mitchell works for the council. His job is cutting the padlocks people leave on the bridges in Upchester. One night, he was just finishing work when he saw a woman accidentally fall into the water. Without hesitation nd leaving his work tools behind, he jumps into the water to save her. What then ensues is a change in Mitchell's life. Usually his life is regimented. He writes for him and his nine year old daughter Poppy to do together. He also writes letters to Anita, his late wife. But he's desperate to find out who the woman was who went over the bridge.
As always with Phaedra Patrick we meet a lot of marvellous characters. There's the doorman Carl and Poppy' s music teacher, Liza. Mitchell and Poppy are still grieving for Anita. I loved the mystery behind the woman who had jumped from the bridge. I also loved Mitchell's development throughout the story. This is a beautifully written book. It's intriguing and easy to read. There is a moral to the story. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HQ and the author Phaedra Patrick for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As always with Phaedra Patrick we meet a lot of marvellous characters. There's the doorman Carl and Poppy' s music teacher, Liza. Mitchell and Poppy are still grieving for Anita. I loved the mystery behind the woman who had jumped from the bridge. I also loved Mitchell's development throughout the story. This is a beautifully written book. It's intriguing and easy to read. There is a moral to the story. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HQ and the author Phaedra Patrick for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2020
This book was very well done! I was thoroughly impressed with both the characters and the writing.
Mitchell Fisher is a single dad–a very devoted single dad–who is living life the best he can while still mourning for his late wife.
His job consists of cutting padlocks off of bridges in the fictional English town–trying to clean them up before a big celebration. Mitchell is getting to the end of a work day when he sees a young woman go over a bridge and into the water… And that’s when he becomes a hero.
From this point on, I’ll have to admit that I was a little slow. I thought the story was going one direction, but it went another. I don’t know why–I guess because I thought it’d be formulaic and predictable.
I really enjoyed the relationships in this story— between father and daughter and even the new budding relationships that start as friends and end as more.
I was pleasantly surprised by this one!
Mitchell Fisher is a single dad–a very devoted single dad–who is living life the best he can while still mourning for his late wife.
His job consists of cutting padlocks off of bridges in the fictional English town–trying to clean them up before a big celebration. Mitchell is getting to the end of a work day when he sees a young woman go over a bridge and into the water… And that’s when he becomes a hero.
From this point on, I’ll have to admit that I was a little slow. I thought the story was going one direction, but it went another. I don’t know why–I guess because I thought it’d be formulaic and predictable.
I really enjoyed the relationships in this story— between father and daughter and even the new budding relationships that start as friends and end as more.
I was pleasantly surprised by this one!
February 13, 2021
This sweetheart of a book tells of Mitchell, a cynical single father, whose job is to cut the padlocks couples have left off of "love story bridge." But when he rescues a mysterious woman from the bridge and she disappears, he sets off on an adventure which may just lead to the second chance he didn't know he needed. Just out in paperback, this is the perfect feel-good book for Valentine's weekend!
February 14, 2024
I am not a big romance book reader but I actually enjoyed this one. This story was clean without any naughty scenes and in a way it was about a man who is slowly realizing its OK to like a woman again after losing the love of his life to death. And it's not easy for Mitchell to do that as he carries a lot of guilt (he was not involved in her accident). And he has been doing the only thing he knows to cope - but that is not working well for his 9-year-old daughter Poppy... So its time for something new.
Mitchell actually falls into this by sheer chance. He was busy doing his job of cutting padlocks off of bridges when he sees a woman in bright yellow. And she is reaching for something. And then she falls off the bridge! Into the river! And before he can think about it, he dives in to save her!
But who is she??
Later he needs to find her! But how do you do that? The task seemed so impossible. But the story of his search and the people he meets during it - not to mention all the stories behind those padlocks - was just fascinating! This book moves at a good pace and it was never dull. It was very entertaining too.
And this cover is very pretty...
I did guess a few things in here but that was ok. I enjoy it when i guess correctly.
But its a good story. Its a mystery too.
On a side note sometimes I walk past this one chainlink fence here that is right next to a small bridge. It has maybe a dozen padlocks hanging on it for unknown reasons. I wonder if in a way this book explains that? Because I certainly never understood why those locks were there.
The characters are written very well in here which is why this was so fun to read. Its not exactly a fluffy romance or anything - there is some serious stuff in here - and its a "second chance romance" - but it is a very good story that covers stuff like grief and guilt. There are no kissy-kissy or hot scenes. These characters are grown and past that stuff.
Mitchell actually falls into this by sheer chance. He was busy doing his job of cutting padlocks off of bridges when he sees a woman in bright yellow. And she is reaching for something. And then she falls off the bridge! Into the river! And before he can think about it, he dives in to save her!
But who is she??
Later he needs to find her! But how do you do that? The task seemed so impossible. But the story of his search and the people he meets during it - not to mention all the stories behind those padlocks - was just fascinating! This book moves at a good pace and it was never dull. It was very entertaining too.
And this cover is very pretty...
I did guess a few things in here but that was ok. I enjoy it when i guess correctly.
But its a good story. Its a mystery too.
On a side note sometimes I walk past this one chainlink fence here that is right next to a small bridge. It has maybe a dozen padlocks hanging on it for unknown reasons. I wonder if in a way this book explains that? Because I certainly never understood why those locks were there.
The characters are written very well in here which is why this was so fun to read. Its not exactly a fluffy romance or anything - there is some serious stuff in here - and its a "second chance romance" - but it is a very good story that covers stuff like grief and guilt. There are no kissy-kissy or hot scenes. These characters are grown and past that stuff.
January 5, 2020
I received an arc of this book from BookBrowse in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed the book very much. A love story about loss and finding a new love. Characters are likeable and situations are realistic. I think a book club would enjoy discussing this one.
April 25, 2020
Mitchell Fisher cannot move fast enough. His city is beset with romance in the form of lovers, marriage mates and hopefuls are attaching padlocks to bridges. There are so many that if they are not removed en masse, they could weigh the bridge down,
Mitchell lost his chance at love when he lost his wife Anita. He is blessed, however, to have a delightful daughter, Poppy, who is nine years old. When his wife was alive, Mitchell was overwhelmed with bridge design work and spent way too much time away from her and Poppy. Now that Anita is gone, Mitchell strives to be the best father he can be by spending quality time with Poppy as much as possible.
One day one of the people attaching a padlock to a bridge caught his eye. It was a woman and before he knew it, she toppled off of the bridge. Mitchell jumped in and saved her life. This is when Mitchell's life took another turn.
As the story progresses in The Secrets of Love Story Bridge, letters and the writing of them become something that is part of the connection formed when Mitchell rescued the woman. This is because a woman, Liza, found Mitchell and let him know the missing woman was her sister. There were a few clues that made this more than possible. So the two of them do everything they can to find Liza's sister.
What a warm and wonderful story! I loved Mitchell, Poppy and Liza. Mitchell especially touched my heart. He was a broken man after the loss of his wife, and although it took him time to work on his feelings, it was more than rewarding for Mitchell to find something that would bring him true joy. With one of the bridges he works on is called Love Story Bridge, Mitchell may have just found his own. What a journey and what a book!
Many thanks to Park Row and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Mitchell lost his chance at love when he lost his wife Anita. He is blessed, however, to have a delightful daughter, Poppy, who is nine years old. When his wife was alive, Mitchell was overwhelmed with bridge design work and spent way too much time away from her and Poppy. Now that Anita is gone, Mitchell strives to be the best father he can be by spending quality time with Poppy as much as possible.
One day one of the people attaching a padlock to a bridge caught his eye. It was a woman and before he knew it, she toppled off of the bridge. Mitchell jumped in and saved her life. This is when Mitchell's life took another turn.
As the story progresses in The Secrets of Love Story Bridge, letters and the writing of them become something that is part of the connection formed when Mitchell rescued the woman. This is because a woman, Liza, found Mitchell and let him know the missing woman was her sister. There were a few clues that made this more than possible. So the two of them do everything they can to find Liza's sister.
What a warm and wonderful story! I loved Mitchell, Poppy and Liza. Mitchell especially touched my heart. He was a broken man after the loss of his wife, and although it took him time to work on his feelings, it was more than rewarding for Mitchell to find something that would bring him true joy. With one of the bridges he works on is called Love Story Bridge, Mitchell may have just found his own. What a journey and what a book!
Many thanks to Park Row and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 23, 2020
Everything I have come to expect from a Phaedra Patrick novel - this has taken me on a journey, secrets have been uncovered and leaves me with a smile on my face.
There is an action sequence early on which sets up the rest of the book, and makes a reluctant hero from Mitchell, who is just trying to do his job of cutting padlocks off the towns bridges, while being a single parent to Poppy. He is rather regimented and likes schedules, targets, spreadsheets etc...
He rescues a mystery women from the river, and then a few days later discovers he is the only person to have seen her in a year. Thus starts the search into just where she is now, and just why she disappeared a year ago.
There are also a lot of good old fashioned letters, mainly written to Mitchell after his heroics on the bridge and some of them are just lovely, and you can see he is starting to be affected by them, whether he wants to be or not.
I really loved the variety of characters especially Mitchell's best friend Graham and his girlfriend Rosie. We don't see much of them but I really did enjoy their character.
I was hooked on this book and just wanted to keep on reading the entire time. It was very absorbing and I loved all the various plot lines. Another really fabulous book from this talented author.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 15, 2020
Not since Me before you have I read such a happy sad book. One that tugs on your heart strings and where you feel that all the characters are personally known to you. But before I start waffling on let me start at the very beginning. This is the story of Mitchell a widower and his daughter Poppy. Mitchell removes padlocks from bridges and if ever there was a job that sucked love and romance out of life this is it. However, at night, he writes letters he can never send and torments himself with the last unopened letter from his late wife.
After leaving a padlock a mysterious woman plunges into the strong current below and after catching her eye Mitchell jumps in to rescue her but not even getting her name finding her again will be difficult. Discovering she’s the sister of his daughter’s teacher and has been missing a year they team up in an attempt to find her. With only the padlock she left as a clue.
Running alongside the mystery is a little subplot with a journalist who runs an article getting readers to write letters to the hero of the bridge.
I loved all the characters, the pace, the mystery and the relationships involved throughout the story. A gentle, delicately written book about love, loss and second chances. Of friendships and family and the beauty of a hand written letter.
After leaving a padlock a mysterious woman plunges into the strong current below and after catching her eye Mitchell jumps in to rescue her but not even getting her name finding her again will be difficult. Discovering she’s the sister of his daughter’s teacher and has been missing a year they team up in an attempt to find her. With only the padlock she left as a clue.
Running alongside the mystery is a little subplot with a journalist who runs an article getting readers to write letters to the hero of the bridge.
I loved all the characters, the pace, the mystery and the relationships involved throughout the story. A gentle, delicately written book about love, loss and second chances. Of friendships and family and the beauty of a hand written letter.
April 28, 2020
A sweet story of love and loss. Mitchell lost his partner recently and he's trapped in a rut. He controls his life with schedules and routines, scared to venture out emotionally or physically. Will he find the courage to move forward, not only for himself- but for his 9 year old daughter?
This is a feel-good story full of memorable characters and locations. Patrick has a way of writing genuine characters that you care for by the end of the story. I enjoyed this sweet book and it left me with a happy feeling in my heart.
Thanks to NetGalley and Park Row for providing me with the ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.
This is a feel-good story full of memorable characters and locations. Patrick has a way of writing genuine characters that you care for by the end of the story. I enjoyed this sweet book and it left me with a happy feeling in my heart.
Thanks to NetGalley and Park Row for providing me with the ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2020
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and she has a new fan. I loved the story and loved the fact it was told from the male characters perspective. Mitchell is dealing with grief, guilt and the belief he needs to have everything planned down to a tee and his 9 year old daughter despairs of her dads regime
I really liked the characters, and loved the journey Mitchell and his daughter poppy takes, it’s a fascinating tale of loss, love, faith and the ability to change the direction of your life
I really liked the characters, and loved the journey Mitchell and his daughter poppy takes, it’s a fascinating tale of loss, love, faith and the ability to change the direction of your life
July 14, 2020
Disappointing book. It reminded me of the harlequin paperbacks I read in my teens. Although I enjoyed this author’s previous three novels, this one fell flat, in my opinion. The characters didn’t resonate with me as credible or even likeable people and I just didn’t care much about what happened to them . I nearly abandoned it half way but hoped for redeeming qualities. Alas, not to be. I sped-read through the final few chapters, just to be done already. Not recommended.
April 25, 2020
Coming soon
April 29, 2020
A staid, overly-organized lonely single dad's prosaic life is turned topsy-turvy when a woman falls from a bridge and he leaps into the river and saves her. The Secrets of Love Story Bridge is the latest from an author who is steadily becoming an auto-buy for me as I linger over the taste the multi-flavored story she just served up.
The Secrets of Love Story Bridge introduces yet another whimsical, engaging character from this author who can make dull and average turn into something effervescent after a steady journey of the heart that is rarely taken alone. Michell Fisher, the average joe with secret heartache, regrets, and loneliness is accompanied on his journey by his loving, but intrepid nine year old daughter, Poppy who just wants to see her dad happy- oh and get a chance to play and go off her dad's well-ordered schedule for their lives, her bright and sparkling music teacher, Liza, who has a mysterious connection to the woman in yellow he rescued and makes him feel something uneasy, but exciting whenever he's near her, his relationship-addled work buddy Bart, his 'I'll help you bury the bodies' child-hood best friend, Graham, and the charming orgami-making doorkeeper at his flat.
There are several threads woven together in this story that Mitchell narrates. There is his life journey to finding himself and what makes him happy, the mystery of Liza's sister's disappearance, the secret inside the last letter Poppy's mother wrote to Mitchell before she died, and the many stories inside the Love Story Bridge letters and padlocks.
A few excitement blips occurred, but mostly this was a gentle-flowing feel-good story that re-establishes letter-writing, ice cream on a hot day, a campout under the stars with marshmellows roasting over the fire and impromptu singalongs as the very best of life. I've read three of the author's four books and love each of these slow-simmer triumphs that really hit on what is really important while telling an engaging story. Those who enjoy general fiction with a light romance should definitely pick this up.
I rec'd this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
The Secrets of Love Story Bridge introduces yet another whimsical, engaging character from this author who can make dull and average turn into something effervescent after a steady journey of the heart that is rarely taken alone. Michell Fisher, the average joe with secret heartache, regrets, and loneliness is accompanied on his journey by his loving, but intrepid nine year old daughter, Poppy who just wants to see her dad happy- oh and get a chance to play and go off her dad's well-ordered schedule for their lives, her bright and sparkling music teacher, Liza, who has a mysterious connection to the woman in yellow he rescued and makes him feel something uneasy, but exciting whenever he's near her, his relationship-addled work buddy Bart, his 'I'll help you bury the bodies' child-hood best friend, Graham, and the charming orgami-making doorkeeper at his flat.
There are several threads woven together in this story that Mitchell narrates. There is his life journey to finding himself and what makes him happy, the mystery of Liza's sister's disappearance, the secret inside the last letter Poppy's mother wrote to Mitchell before she died, and the many stories inside the Love Story Bridge letters and padlocks.
A few excitement blips occurred, but mostly this was a gentle-flowing feel-good story that re-establishes letter-writing, ice cream on a hot day, a campout under the stars with marshmellows roasting over the fire and impromptu singalongs as the very best of life. I've read three of the author's four books and love each of these slow-simmer triumphs that really hit on what is really important while telling an engaging story. Those who enjoy general fiction with a light romance should definitely pick this up.
I rec'd this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2020
The Secrets Of Sunshine by Phaedra Patrick is the most delightful contemporary novel that will warm your heart and soul, making you feel good about life.
Phaedra Patrick always creates such wonderful storylines and characters. It’s just like sinking down into your favourite chair.
The novel is a celebration of love. There are those who have loved and lost, and life is painful at times but life is for living. “You try to function as normal, then you feel guilty when you have good times.” Survivor’s guilt weighs heavy but we should not feel guilty for living again.
We all have regrets. “Regret was a heavy burden.” We must learn from the mistakes of the past and move into the future.
There is the theme of kindness. Huge hearted characters give of themselves. Kindness always improves the world.
The characters are wonderfully drawn. I loved nine year old Poppy who breezed throughout the novel.
The Secrets Of Sunshine was the perfect book to brighten any day. As I read it during lockdown, it brought a ray of sunshine and hope into my life. I adore Phaedra Patrick’s novels. If you have not read any, you are missing out.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Phaedra Patrick always creates such wonderful storylines and characters. It’s just like sinking down into your favourite chair.
The novel is a celebration of love. There are those who have loved and lost, and life is painful at times but life is for living. “You try to function as normal, then you feel guilty when you have good times.” Survivor’s guilt weighs heavy but we should not feel guilty for living again.
We all have regrets. “Regret was a heavy burden.” We must learn from the mistakes of the past and move into the future.
There is the theme of kindness. Huge hearted characters give of themselves. Kindness always improves the world.
The characters are wonderfully drawn. I loved nine year old Poppy who breezed throughout the novel.
The Secrets Of Sunshine was the perfect book to brighten any day. As I read it during lockdown, it brought a ray of sunshine and hope into my life. I adore Phaedra Patrick’s novels. If you have not read any, you are missing out.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
June 19, 2020
For fans of Phaedra Patrick's who found her last title, The Library of Lost and Found, to be a bit dark, take heart — she's returned with a lighter touch and multiple happy endings in The Secrets of Love Story Bridge! Mitchell is a widower with a young child, Poppy, who despite losing her mother, keeps a positive outlook and is perhaps the only bright spot in her dad's existence. A former architect, he now spends his time maintaining a bridge in town famous for the padlocks lovers place there to cement their commitment. His job? To cut off all the padlocks. He is snapped out of his lethargy one day when a woman falls over the rail and he rescues her. When he is rescued himself, the woman is gone. Obsessed, he tracks down her family, and together, they commit to finding Yvette. Mitchell finds himself dropping his guard, leading to the possibility of being able to love again. A sweet romance with several delightful supporting characters!
May 14, 2020
This is a gem of a book, quirky and amusing but sad and heartfelt at the same time, I really enjoyed that the main character was male and a well crafted figure at that, regretful and lonely and someone for whom life has no colour save for his 9 year old daughter Poppy. He tries so hard to be a good dad, feeding her nutritious food and structuring time and activities for her but he’s also forgotten how to live and have fun too. He’s not an impulsive person however when he sees a woman falling from a bridge he acts on instinct and the consequences are unexpected, taking him right out of his comfort zone and setting the scene for an unusual but glorious story. There’s a marvellous cast of characters and I loved the letters and the modern day reminder of something lost through technology.
March 2, 2020
Loved this book from start to finish. Mitchell was a wonderful lead character. His journey from the moment he jumped in the river to save Yvette was engaging, touching and hopeful. I found myself hooked on the mystery surrounding her and how the author handled the resolution. It was wonderful how one act helped Mitchell find his way out of the emotional rut he was in and let him start living properly. I loved the supporting characters, Poppy, Barry, Carl, Graham and lovely pineapple Liza. The letter writing was especially lovely and made me want to write a few of my own. Really well written, highly recommended book.
May 18, 2020
My first book by this author, and I was pulled in by the cover and the blurb. The prose truly filled me with emotions as Mitchell who had stopped believing in love, rescued a woman who was about to jump off the bridge. Wanting to know more about her, he got together with his sister to find more about her.
I loved everything about the story from the characters to the writing to the emotions that enveloped my heart. The author plucked me out from my life and immersed me into the depths of the story. Absolutely brilliant.
I loved everything about the story from the characters to the writing to the emotions that enveloped my heart. The author plucked me out from my life and immersed me into the depths of the story. Absolutely brilliant.
January 7, 2020
Single dad Mitchell Fisher opens his heart (as he cuts love locks off the bridges of a fictitious English city) to love again when he saves a woman from drowning. When she vanishes he has to find her again, helped by a clue on a padlock and his young daughter Poppy. Thoroughly charming
October 24, 2020
Phaedra Patrick is a wonderful writer. This book has many of the same ideas about life that are in her other books but it is definitely its own story. I look so forward to her books!!
May 18, 2020
RATING: 3.5 STARS
2020; Park Row/Harlequin
After reading The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper and loving it, I was excited to read another novel by Patrick. The Secrets of Love Story Bridge is another story of single man, Mitchell, but this time a single father. He has lost his partner, and taken a job where he can be there for his daughter. When a woman jumps off the bridge, Mitchell dives into save her and sets off on journey he never expected. This was a cute story, but I just didn't fall in love with it like The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through Edelweiss and NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
2020; Park Row/Harlequin
After reading The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper and loving it, I was excited to read another novel by Patrick. The Secrets of Love Story Bridge is another story of single man, Mitchell, but this time a single father. He has lost his partner, and taken a job where he can be there for his daughter. When a woman jumps off the bridge, Mitchell dives into save her and sets off on journey he never expected. This was a cute story, but I just didn't fall in love with it like The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through Edelweiss and NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
June 12, 2020
In a story of life after loss, Mitchell Fisher has had a difficult time living in the present while remembering the life he had with his partner Anita. Both he and his daughter Poppy have had tremendous change in their lives and it’s been difficult to move on.
One day while Mitchell is enjoying his work of cutting romantic padlocks off a bridge, he notices a young woman who has fallen from a bridge into the water. Without thinking, he jumps into the water and saves her. This heroic gesture sets into motion a series of events which brings about a change to his life.
This book is a slow burn which I found to be endearing. The transformation of Mitchell over the course of the book is believable and I found myself rooting for him. I appreciate the character development of our protagonist - a quality I also appreciated in the author’s previous work, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper.
I listened to the audiobook version of the book and enjoyed the narration of Matthew Lloyd Davies, who was perfectly cast to bring Mitchell Fisher to life.
One day while Mitchell is enjoying his work of cutting romantic padlocks off a bridge, he notices a young woman who has fallen from a bridge into the water. Without thinking, he jumps into the water and saves her. This heroic gesture sets into motion a series of events which brings about a change to his life.
This book is a slow burn which I found to be endearing. The transformation of Mitchell over the course of the book is believable and I found myself rooting for him. I appreciate the character development of our protagonist - a quality I also appreciated in the author’s previous work, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper.
I listened to the audiobook version of the book and enjoyed the narration of Matthew Lloyd Davies, who was perfectly cast to bring Mitchell Fisher to life.
June 28, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful romance which also had a bit of a mystery in the story. The characters are somewhat quirky and always likable. The story is hopeful, even when the struggles of the characters seem to have no solution. Mitchell is a single father of nine-year-old Poppy. Having lost his partner, he is still grieving her passing. His job is removing the “love padlocks” from bridges. One day, he sees a woman falling from a bridge, after fastening on a padlock. He jumps in the river to save her, and thus begins an unpredictable chain of events that changes the lives of several people, but most notably, Mitchell himself. It’s a charming tale, shining with an old love and sparkling with a new one. Sometimes, you just have to let go of the old to grasp something new. This well-written love story is the perfect summer read, especially in the audio version, well performed by Matthew Lloyd Davies.
July 1, 2022
All of Phaedra Patrick’s novels follow a similar pattern: Quirky curmudgeonly characters suddenly meet someone or experience something (or both) that changes their lives for the better. In The Secrets of Love Story Bridge, it’s Mitchell, a widowed father, who saves the life of a woman who accidentally falls from a bridge. Turns out that this woman is the missing sister of his daughter Poppy’s music teacher. Mitchell had been living with a lot of guilt after his wife’s death in a car accident. He quit his stressful job as an architect and took a job as a maintenance worker. (I did find this a little hard to believe.) He copes by endless scheduling his and his daughter’s time. Mitchell agrees to help Liza (the music teacher) find her missing sister. I did find the missing sister portion of the book a little weak. I was sure I knew what had happened to her and I was right.
It was still an enjoyable read and it’s nice to read a book with a happy ending for all the characters.
It was still an enjoyable read and it’s nice to read a book with a happy ending for all the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 756 reviews