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A review by chewie_the_mouse
The Love Note by Joanna Davidson Politano
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"The Love Note" by Joanna Davidson Politano is one part historical fiction, one part romance, one part women's empowerment, one part Christian fiction, and one part pure literary magic. The book tells the story of Willa, an 1800s nurse who yearns to be a doctor rather than follow the path society (and her father) expects of her....namely, to get married and be a full-time wife.
In the course of trying to steer clear of marriage, Willa makes a deal with her father and finds an old love letter. This propels her on a course of self-discovery and strengthened faith.
The novels truly shines in several areas:
1. Character development: While we learn the most about Willa, several other major characters are portrayed in great detail, which makes them feel like real people you (as the reader) could meet and interact with. I loved how their hidden motivations for their actions were slowly revealed as more information is gradually uncovered about each person's past and experiences.
2. The love note plot: The note Willa found early on plays a major role in the story. I loved seeing how different people came across it, believed it had been written for them, and reacted to the words. I also appreciated the way Willa's search for the (long ago) intended recipient is seamlessly woven into the current events in her life. The author skillfully manages to tell several people's stories at once without ever overwhelming the reader. I enjoyed learning about all of them, and some will stay with me long after I've finished reading.
3. The wonderful little quotes at the start of each chapter: Although it's never stated explicitly, I believe these are Willa's own musings. All were entertaining, and some were downright profound.
4. The unexpected surprises: Certain things happened throughout the story that I wasn't expecting. I liked how these small (and not so small) events peppered the narrative, giving me some enjoyable surprises.
5. The faith element: Willa, as well as other important characters, is a Christian. I liked how her faith guided her actions, and how she actively sought out God when circumstances grew difficult. Her story provides wonderful inspiration and support for Christians who are struggling, and a nice faith boost to those who aren't.
All in all, this is a truly special book. Five out of five perfect razor-thin slices of mild cheddar!
In the course of trying to steer clear of marriage, Willa makes a deal with her father and finds an old love letter. This propels her on a course of self-discovery and strengthened faith.
The novels truly shines in several areas:
1. Character development: While we learn the most about Willa, several other major characters are portrayed in great detail, which makes them feel like real people you (as the reader) could meet and interact with. I loved how their hidden motivations for their actions were slowly revealed as more information is gradually uncovered about each person's past and experiences.
2. The love note plot: The note Willa found early on plays a major role in the story. I loved seeing how different people came across it, believed it had been written for them, and reacted to the words. I also appreciated the way Willa's search for the (long ago) intended recipient is seamlessly woven into the current events in her life. The author skillfully manages to tell several people's stories at once without ever overwhelming the reader. I enjoyed learning about all of them, and some will stay with me long after I've finished reading.
3. The wonderful little quotes at the start of each chapter: Although it's never stated explicitly, I believe these are Willa's own musings. All were entertaining, and some were downright profound.
4. The unexpected surprises: Certain things happened throughout the story that I wasn't expecting. I liked how these small (and not so small) events peppered the narrative, giving me some enjoyable surprises.
5. The faith element: Willa, as well as other important characters, is a Christian. I liked how her faith guided her actions, and how she actively sought out God when circumstances grew difficult. Her story provides wonderful inspiration and support for Christians who are struggling, and a nice faith boost to those who aren't.
All in all, this is a truly special book. Five out of five perfect razor-thin slices of mild cheddar!