Reviews

The Sealed Letter by Emma Donoghue

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soupy_twist's review against another edition

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emotional medium-paced

4.0

mhall's review

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3.0

Historical fiction based on a real divorce case in 1860s London. Not as depressing as Slammerkin, not as immersive or rich in detail as Life Mask, a bit hard to get into at first.

bhansy's review against another edition

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4.0

I'm impressed by Donoghue's versatility as a writer, it's ridiculous, from Room to The Wonder. After reading The Sealed Letter and The Wonder, I've found those to be way superior to Room. Granted, they're completely different.

I enjoyed the book from a legal perspective and a historical one, I love experiencing old ways of justice and juries, I find it fascinating for some reason. I mean, I'm in law school (lol). I'm sure this may not appeal to everyone, since it relays heavily on that aspect, the whole process of a 1800's divorce. I loved it. I find what I enjoy the most about Donoghue's writing is the ambiance she creates and how extremely real the characters feel, one moment you are feeling sorry for Helen but then you want to kick her in the bum. Same with Harry and Fido. I adore fiction based on historical facts.

I have to say though, I didn't see the end coming... AT ALL.

vdoprincess's review

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5.0

Emma D is a fantastic writer, and this book is no exception. She writes from the perspective of the three protagonists, in turn, and each viewpoint is clearly delineated. She makes each character sympathetic as we come to them, but ultimately, this novel is based on an actual case.

I learned much that I didn’t know about the early womens rights movement, marital law in the 1800s, and even different types of cabs. The world-building here is precise and delightful.