I’ll go ahead a say it - I adored this story! I haven’t read anything from Joanna Davidson Politano since her debut novel, something I shall have to rectify very soon. I was drawn in from the very first page and couldn’t wait to see where the story was going to go! The complexity kept me wondering and the beauty in so many of the lines had me wishing I had a pen and paper nearby to write them down. I definitely have a “book hangover” from this one and I don’t regret one moment of it.
As it’s been a while since I’ve read anything from this author, I had no recollection to create expectations. That being said, I had also forgotten what a great storyteller she is! From the mystery surrounding the letter, to the many characters whose hearts were revealed through an anonymous letter, I was captivated by this story of love lost, love found, and so many questions of what true love looks like. Much of this story comes from the perspective of Willa Duvall as she searches for the writer of the letter, as well as answers to the many questions she has regarding her life and purpose. I loved watching her grow in compassion and wisdom, as well as finding answers that surprise and challenge her. The story also comes from a few other characters, as the letter makes its rounds through a household of broken and hurting people.
There’s so much of this novel that pulled on my heart, but I think my favorite part was the hope that is woven through a telling that is at times difficult and broken, while also somehow being beautiful and healing.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction full of twists, turns and so much hope.

*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.