Focused on a career in medicine and not on romance, Willa Duvall is thrown slightly off course during the summer of 1865 when she discovers a never-opened love letter in a crack of her old writing desk. Compelled to find the passionate soul who penned it and the person who never received it, she takes a job as a nurse at the seaside estate of Crestwicke Manor.Everyone at Crestwicke has … feelings–mostly negative ones–about the man who wrote the letter, but he seems to have disappeared. With plenty of enticing clues but few answers, Willa’s search becomes even more complicated when she misplaces the letter and it passes from person to person in the house, each finding a thrilling or disheartening message in its words. Laced with mysteries large and small, this romantic Victorian-era tale of love lost, love deferred, and love found is sure to delight.
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This story is captivating! Ms. Politano has written a very unusual love story. While Willa is pursuing her dream of a medical career, which was unknown in the mid 1800’s, she finds herself on another journey of self-discovery, one that involves the discovery of a real, lasting authentic love. A letter and its message of love takes her to Crestwicke Manor where she finds the letter inadvertently touches the residents in varied ways, exposing vulnerabilities and broken relationships.
Ms. Politano skillfully weaves several subplots within a masterpiece of friendship, family and love. Her unique voice and beautiful prose quietly present a story that provokes deep thought, leaving the reader to ponder the legacy our spoken and written words leave behind.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I really enjoyed reading The Love Note by Joanna Davidson Politano!
There are tips/quotes at the top of each chapter by “a scientist’s observation on love.” They made me giggle and also take a moment to think about it!
Willa just wants to be understood and valued for being her. This includes her scientific knowledge, love for learning and desire to help people. She finds a mysterious note in her desk and goes on a life changing mission to find the people involved in the letter. I love her spunk and determination throughout the whole book! The anticipation and excitement as she is headed off on her journey is so cute. The author always does a great job of making things mysterious without being creepy. Building suspense and getting you on board with wanting to know the answers right along with the characters is the author’s specialty!
Each person’s reaction to the letter is intriguing and how they get a hold of it is different. Who knew one letter could make such a mess! Aunt Maise makes me laugh… I just love funny older people that have quick wit in books!
Overall The Love Note is such a great book! I love all of Joanna Davidson Politano’s books and this is no exception! Mysterious and adorable story!
The Love Note by Joanna Davidson Politano is Christian Historical Mystery Fiction set in the Victorian Era. What a delightful book with mysteries, romance, medical and most importantly of all the Christian message throughout. The characters by their thoughts and actions show complete dependence on God. If we could all live our lives in this manner how different this world would be. I believe this is one of Joanna Davidson Politano‘s finest novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars
I’m excited to have found another great author in this genre. The words flowed beautifully throughout this well written and unique tale. The story was at times poignant, but it had bursts of inspirational prose and a happy ending. For me it was like a gift wrapped in multiple layers of wrapping paper, with each layer revealing something beautiful. Some quotes which stirred me:
“There’s less to crowd him out.”
“Or he’s giving you a choice. And a choice is nothing but an invitation to have a talk with him.”
“…that depth of longing was simply too much to be filled by any human.”
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
Joanna Davidson Politano just penned a bold and thoughtful story. Bold because it is unconventional. In the best of senses, you will discover.. From the love story to the POV. Thoughtful because she speaks truth to all our hearts. She pens fears, hopes, and dreams revealing not only who the characters are but, I have a hunch, a big part of the writer too. I must admit, the hopes, dreams, and fear portrayed in this book aligned with my heart too. This is not surprising though it is humbly in a sense. To have your armor reaped from you to expose your most vulnerable self is not comfortable.
If you think I am speaking in riddles, that is because there are too many layers to this book. Finishing such a reading leaves one lacking on how to put together a comprehensive review. “The Love Note” is sweet and unexpected, from the twist and turns but also the laughter that sneaks up on you.
*I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
What a phenomenal book this is! I love novels that take place in musty, Victorian mansions—bursting with secrets, unrequited and recently discovered love, and a vast array of intriguing characters. The plot is as twisty as the winding staircase at Crestwicke Manor, as a love note written for one person ends up in the hands of each occupant…causing confusion, thrills, hope, and even discouragement to some. And that’s the amazing power of words—we must be careful how we use them!
Joanna Davidson Politano is an exquisite wordsmith, whose lovely poetic prose has the capability to evoke powerful emotions in the reader. Especially mine!
“To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest human achievement.” Saint Augustine of Hippo (Quote taken from ‘The Love Note’.)
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
Another delightful read by Joanna Davidson Politano! Chock full of mystery, romance, great storytelling and spiritually uplifting gems, this is an inspirational treasure! A must read!