the letter book review

Literature & Fiction
Genre Fiction

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The Letter Paperback – April 5, 2016

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* THE MEMORY BOX , THE BRAND NEW NOVEL FROM KATHRYN HUGHES, IS AVAILABLE NOW * Every so often a love story comes along to remind us that sometimes, in our darkest hour, hope shines a candle to light our way. Discover THE LETTER by Kathryn Hughes, the Number One bestseller that has captured thousands of hearts worldwide. Perfect for fans of The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. 'A wonderful, uplifting story' Lesley Pearse Join the hundreds of thousands of readers worldwide who have fallen in love with THE LETTER: 'An amazing, heartwrenching, unforgettable story' 'This beautiful story will bring tears and joy' 'Loved this story !! It kept me totally gripped although I was sobbing in places as well' 'A tale of love and hope with lots of twists and turns. A great story!' Tina Craig longs to escape her violent husband. She works all the hours God sends to save up enough money to leave him, also volunteering in a charity shop to avoid her unhappy home. Whilst going through the pockets of a second-hand suit, she comes across an old letter, the envelope firmly sealed and unfranked. Tina opens the letter and reads it - a decision that will alter the course of her life for ever... Billy Stirling knows he has been a fool, but hopes he can put things right. On 4th September 1939 he sits down to write the letter he hopes will change his future. It does - in more ways than he can ever imagine... THE LETTER tells the story of two women, born decades apart, whose paths are destined to cross and how one woman's devastation leads to the other's salvation. *** Kathryn's beautiful new novel HER LAST PROMISE is available now ***

Print length 416 pages
Language English
Publisher Headline
Publication date April 5, 2016
Reading age 18 years and up
Dimensions 5 x 1 x 7.75 inches
ISBN-10 9781472229953
ISBN-13 978-1472229953
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Editorial Reviews

From the back cover.

Discover the novel that has broken a thousand hearts... Tina Craig works all the hours she can and volunteers in a charity shop to avoid her unhappy home. Going through the pockets of a second-hand suit, she comes across an old letter, the envelope firmly sealed and unfranked. Tina opens the letter and reads it - a decision that will alter the course of her life for ever. Billy Stirling knows he has been a fool, but hopes he can put things right. On 4th September 1939 he sits down to write the letter he hopes will change his future. It does...in more ways than he can imagine. It's time to open The Letter. 'A beautiful story' Reviewed by Fran 'A sheer joy to read' Marianne, Amazon 'Will stir every emotion' Jo, Goodreads 'I cried buckets of tears' Books With Wine And Chocolate 'This book had me spellbound' Eleanor, Amazon 'I got goosebumps' Moly 84, Amazon 'It tugged at the heart' Megan, Goodreads 'I could not put it down' Gransnet reviewer 'Restores your faith in true love' Chris, Goodreads 'One of the best books I've ever read' Cheryl, Goodreads 'My heart broke for the characters' Shelly, Amazon

About the Author

Product details.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ 1472229959
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Headline (April 5, 2016)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 416 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9781472229953
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1472229953
Reading age ‏ : ‎ 18 years and up
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 10.4 ounces
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 1 x 7.75 inches
#4,631 in Family Life Fiction (Books)
#5,308 in Women's Domestic Life Fiction
#43,825 in Contemporary Romance (Books)

About the author

Kathryn hughes.

Kathryn Hughes was born near Manchester, UK in 1964. After thirty years working as a secretary and bringing up two children, she finally realised her dream of writing a book. Her debut novel, The Letter, set in her home town, was first published in 2013 and since then has become an international best-seller, translated into 30 languages. Her other books include The Secret and The Key. This summer sees the release of her fourth book, Her Last Promise, a sweeping tale of a daughter's quest to unravel the secrets of her mother's disappearance.

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The Last Word Book Review

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The Letter by Kathryn Hughes

The Letter by Kathryn Hughes

Review Date : 30 October 2015

Author : Kathryn Hughes

Release Date: 8 October 2015

Publishers: Headline Review

ISBN – 10: 1472229959

ISBN – 13: 1472229953

Available in Paperback, Kindle and audio

The Last Word Review

Prepare to surrender a weekend to The Letter, a deeply moving love story that will linger long in the memory

The Letter was first released as an e-book and very quickly took the world by storm, and became the No1 Kindle bestseller. At last it has been released in Paperback and many more thousands can fall for the debut novel by Kathryn Hughes.

I must admit I fell for the charms of The Letter in all its glory this is a story packed full of heartbreak, and loss, primarily it is a love story with a message of hope. Quite simply it does not disappoint in anyway. A book that I did not want to end.

There are a number of leading characters that run through this novel, Tina Craig is the long suffering wife of Rick who repeatedly abuses his wife. Nothing she can do to please her husband and Rick is in complete denial of who and what he does. Quite simply a vile husband who you will quickly come to dislike immensely.

It is 1973 the day of the Grand National and Rick has stolen Tina’s savings from a jar at the back of the kitchen cupboard, yet he tries to convince Tina he won it on the horses. Red Rum is making his National debut and Rick has placed hundreds of pounds that was Tina’s on Red Rum. Tina has to place the bet on her way into work that Saturday morning but does she? Tina runs a charity shop next door to the bookies. While sorting through some clothes she finds a letter, this is no ordinary letter and clearly has not been posted. It is addressed to Chrissie and is dated September 1939.

The story picks up in that year and of the young lives of Billy and Chrissie and War is about to be declared. The story jumps beautifully between the early 1970’s and Tina and 1939 and the story of Chrissie and how Tina and Chrissie’s lives are now intertwined with each other.

The story that unfolds from here is incredibly heart-braking and could easily have been true for many in 1939. Tina despite now being pregnant wants to uncover the story of the letter and her quest and even her own journey have now begun but there is more heartbreak to come for Tina. Can she find the rightful owner of this incredible letter? What became of Chrissie? What about Billy did he survive the war? I loved the parts played by Tina and Chrissie as well as Billy it is impossible not to loathe Rick for who he was and what he did to his wife. The 1973 Grand National brought back memories for me that I would rather not recall around a father who was similar to Rick except my father backed the wrong horse and what we suffered after. So to read this early in The Letter brought tears of immense sadness to my eyes as those memories flooded back.

The Letter by Kathryn Hughes is both beautifully written and incredibly poignant. You cannot fail to fall for this story. There is so much emotion written into the story that it carries you along and you just want to see a happy ending. So is there a happy ending. You will discover for yourself in a book that I am delighted to highly recommend.

Thank you to both Headline and BookBridgr for a review copy.

HIGHY RECOMMENDED

Meet the Author

Kathryn hughes.

Kathryn Hughes lives near Manchester with her husband and two children. The Letter is her first novel.

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The Letter by Kathryn Hughes – Book Review

The Letter by Kathryn Hughes ISBN: 978-1-4722-2995-3 Published: 8th October 2015 by Headline Available to buy on Amazon in multiple formats (e-book/paperback).

‘Discover the novel that has broken a thousand hearts… Tina Craig works all the hours she can and volunteers in a charity shop to avoid her unhappy home. Going through the pockets of a second-hand suit, she comes across an old letter, the envelope firmly sealed and un-franked. Tina opens the letter and reads it – a decision that will alter the course of her life forever.

Billy Stirling knows he has been a fool, but he hopes he can put things right. On 4th September 1939 he sits down to write the letter he hopes will change his future. It does…in more ways than he can imagine.’

This book chose me. For those who live and breathe books, I’m sure you can relate to the moment a book cover stands out to you. Even though many other books may catch your eye, there is always one you cannot forget. The chosen book. The blurb will leave you wondering right away. Why does Tina Craig have an unhappy home? What was so life changing in that letter? I had high expectations for Kathryn Hughes debut novel, and all my fingers were crossed that I wasn’t going to be disappointed….. ‘The Letter’ is a story that goes through many twists and turns and heart breaking moments. Tina Craig is one of the main characters whose life you follow. She lives with her alcoholic husband and unfortunately has to walk on egg shells because of his explosive behaviours. The charity shop Tina works in is her only means of escape…somewhere she can breath without wondering if she’s making too much noise. She is trapped in her situation. A situation that leaves her wondering what will happen, when it will happen… Although, thanks to the letter she finds, her thoughts are taken up by going back in time. Tina gives herself the challenge of finding the history of the letter, and it sends her searching. But will she find anything, or anyone? In chapter four you will find yourself getting introduced to more of the main characters who’s lives you will follow too, but from the past. Billy Stirling was a young jack the lad that had the girls wrapped around his little finger, especially Chrissie. Both Billy’s and Chrissie’s lives were already hard because of their upbringings, but because of one rainy night, their lives become a whole lot harder. The story goes between 1939 (the year of the letter) and 1973 (Tina’s present day). Usually time swapping in a book can be quite confusing, however, it is a vital part of this story because it holds most of the important events leading to the present. In 1939, it wasn’t just Billy’s and Chrissie’s lives that changed, lives of their loved ones also changed because of their actions. They all loved, and they all lost. Half way through the book, personally, had me sitting with my mouth open and shocked at the events that were unfolding before my very eyes. Kathryn Hughes description of events will leave you wanting to keep hold of the book until the very end because of how real the story becomes. I certainly found that happening. Once again the story is back in 1973, now this is where Kathryn Hughes’ writing shines even more. Tina is faced with more horrendous problems, with one of those being extremely heart wrenching. I’m not embarrassed to say that I cried, a lot. The raw emotion that is in those black words in front of you is gripping. Part of you will want to put it down because of that reason, but the book is so good you know you will regret it if you didn’t finish it. I know that is certainly how I felt when I was reading it! After Tina takes some time out for herself, her letter mission resumes, and she finds herself involved deeper in the situation than what she originally thought. A mission she sees through right until the end, but the outcome will leave you guessing right the way through. After reading Kathryn Hughes debut novel, my face was tear – stained and I thought ‘wow’. The story had me hooked from the very beginning, even the switching between times was easy to follow which sometimes it isn’t. I thought the book was an incredible read, so raw, historic and extremely emotional. The events that were written opened my eyes to what may have happened in the past, some of which were extremely shocking yet very well describe. Usually when reading books I hope I can’t predict what will happen, I want to read a book that has me guessing all the way through. This book does exactly that. It’s unpredictable, you’re in for plenty of shocks, emotion, arguments, and true love. I saw the characters grow (in my mind), like I was following them on their journey and some of the scenarios were happening to me. It is that raw. Kathryn Hughes, what an outstanding way to debut. Such a powerful read and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for the next book. I most certainly was not disappointed.

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Review – The Letter by Kathryn Hughes

Tina Craig longs to escape her violent husband. She works all the hours God sends to save up enough money to leave him, also volunteering in a charity shop to avoid her unhappy home. Whilst going through the pockets of a second-hand suit, she comes across an old letter, the envelope firmly sealed and unfranked. Tina opens the letter and reads it – a decision that will alter the course of her life for ever… Billy Stirling knows he has been a fool, but hopes he can put things right. On 4th September 1939 he sits down to write the letter he hopes will change his future. It does – in more ways than he can ever imagine… The Letter tells the story of two women, born decades apart, whose paths are destined to cross and how one woman’s devastation leads to the other’s salvation. Having read other people’s reviews of this one, I never imagined I’d find the review so difficult to write. Maybe some of the publicity should have given me a bit of a clue that it might not be entirely the book for me… Every so often a love story comes along to remind us that sometimes, in our darkest hour, hope shines a candle to light our way. But this book was a self-published sensation, and already has close to 2000 5 star reviews on Amazon. The Letter by Kathryn Hughes was originally published by Matador: world rights (including film and tv) have now been bought by Headline, who will relaunch the e-book on 19th March, with the paperback to follow in October. The story itself has immense potential. A letter, written in 1939 and never sent, found in the pocket of a suit left in a charity shop; a modern story line involving an abused wife, sufficiently intrigued by the letter to try and solve its mystery; the wartime story of the young woman to whom the letter was written. I really wanted to love it – it’s the kind of story I usually adore – but it never really engaged me emotionally. The characters were too stereotypical for me to ever fully believe in them – angels or devils, and very little in-between. Some of the plot twists were signalled in neon letters before they happened, and then unfolded so desperately slowly that I really just wanted to move on and found myself skipping chunks. There was an awful lot of telling rather than showing, sometimes with quite lengthy bits of rather unrealistic dialogue where people seemed to tell each other their life stories. And on top of that, there were frequent recaps in the dialogue of things that hadn’t happened long before – I found myself thinking “I know, I know – just move on!”. On the positive side, I thought the more modern scenario of domestic abuse was handled well, examined unflinchingly and very realistically. The wartime story though seemed too modern in its language at times, and the period detail (for example, the onset of the blackout features heavily) just didn’t seem particularly authentic. I read it, but couldn’t feel it – and the same applies when the story moves to Ireland. As for the search that occurs towards the end of the book, it really seemed to rely entirely on coincidence and happenstance in its resolution. I very rarely review a book I really didn’t enjoy – but with so many five star reviews, I really don’t think mine is going make any particular waves. In summary, I think the best I can say is great idea (three stars of anyone’s allocation), but the execution could have been so very much better – I really can’t understand why so many people have loved it so much. That said, it would undoubtedly make a wonderful TV drama series – if someone doesn’t decide to make the film first. My thanks to netgalley and publishers Headline for my advance reading copy – I’m just sorry I didn’t like it better.

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The Letter: The new emotional and gripping family drama for 2023 from the No.1 bestselling author

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The Letter: The new emotional and gripping family drama for 2023 from the No.1 bestselling author Hardcover – 2 Mar. 2023

Purchase options and add-ons, a cry for help will tear a family apart….

‘What a brilliant book – so many rollercoasters, emotional, funny and sad’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Netgalley reviewer

Another gripping and dramatic family drama from the Sunday Times bestseller

Bella can’t wait to be married to her fiancée Sidney, and dreams of the day she will walk up the aisle to be given away by her widowed father, with her bookish sister Alice as her bridesmaid.

Their lives are disturbed when they receive a letter from their fifteen-year-old cousin Millie. Taken in by her austere aunt and uncle when her parents were killed in an accident, Millie says she is being badly treated and pleads to be rescued.

When the two sisters take a trip to find out the truth, things take a troubling turn. Millie is brought home to live with them, her only possessions her ill-fitting clothes and a tatty suitcase.

But soon they are questioning this act of kindness. Does their teenaged cousin just need some love and kindness? Or is she a troublemaker, with only mischief and malice on her mind…?

Josephine Cox's book 'A Daughter’s Return' was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 04-10-2021.

Print length 448 pages
Language English
Publisher HarperCollins
Publication date 2 Mar. 2023
Dimensions 15.9 x 4 x 24 cm
ISBN-10 0008128251
ISBN-13 978-0008128258
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A Daughter’s Return: a gripping family drama from the Sunday Times bestselling author

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Product description

Reader reviews for The Letter :

‘Loved the story and the characters’ Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars

‘It's so well written and the story line was addictive.’ Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars

‘What a brilliant book – so many rollercoasters, emotional, funny and sad’ Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars

‘A definite read again book on my shelf’ Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars

Praise for Josephine Cox:

'Thanks to her near faultless writing … readers will find it impossible to tear themselves away.' News of the World

'Another hit for Josephine Cox' Sunday Express

‘Cox's talent as storyteller never lets you escape the spell' Daily Mail

'Another masterpiece' Best

‘Another beautifully spun family epic' Scottish Daily Echo

'A born storyteller' Bedfordshire Times

‘A surefire winner' Woman's Weekly

Book Description

The new emotional and gripping family drama for 2023 from the No.1 bestselling author

About the Author

Josephine Cox was born in Blackburn, one of ten children. Her strong, gritty stories are taken from the tapestry of life. Josephine says, ‘I could never imagine a single day without writing. It’s been that way since as far back as I can remember.’

Product details

Publisher ‏ : ‎ HarperCollins (2 Mar. 2023)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 448 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0008128251
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0008128258
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.9 x 4 x 24 cm
8,756 in Family Sagas
11,533 in Fiction Classics (Books)
25,171 in Women Writers & Fiction

About the author

Josephine cox.

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Literary Theory and Criticism

Home › British Literature › Analysis of W. Somerset Maugham’s The Letter

Analysis of W. Somerset Maugham’s The Letter

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on September 24, 2022

For six months in 1921 and four months in 1925, W. Somerset Maugham traveled throughout the British-ruled Malay States, befriending the civil servants, planters, officials, and hostesses of the Malaysian colonies—and gathering abundant material for his fiction. “The Letter,” one of Maugham’s best-known short stories, is the result of these travels. Set against the exotic, vivid backdrop of the British colony at Singapore, “The Letter” depicts the dishonorable effects of jealous passion and deceit while suggesting a subtle tension between the British colonists and their Eastern subjects.

Leslie Crosbie, the wife of rubber planter Robert Crosbie, has been arrested for shooting Geoffrey Hammond, a fellow planter, and claims self-defense. Mr. Joyce, the Singapore lawyer who has been retained in Leslie’s defense, finds his position—and his judicial principles—compromised by Crosbie’s naiveté, Leslie’s practiced dissimulation, and the machinations of his Chinese clerk, Ong Chi Seng, whose Anglicized appearance belies duplicity. Seng, in possession of a letter from Leslie Crosbie to Geoffrey Hammond revealing her infidelity, positions himself as middleman in a discreet but expensive scheme of blackmail. His friend will sell the letter to Robert Crosbie for $10,000. Joyce, at once fascinated and repelled by his client, is moved by her artfully feigned helplessness to take the “unjustifiable” step of accepting Seng’s offer, thus shielding Leslie from public humiliation as well as certain conviction. Once Crosbie has read the letter, however, and grasped its implications, Leslie cannot avoid private humiliation.

“The Letter” is notable not only for its suspenseful plot but for Maugham’s skillful portrayal of the unrepentant, manipulative, and self-serving character Leslie Crosbie and for his subtle representation of colonial racial tensions: Leslie Crosbie’s murderous rage is prompted by her lover’s scorn, but it is intensified because he has scorned her in favor of a Chinese woman. Maugham’s depiction of the careful, crafty negotiations between Joyce and Seng further underscores the impression conveyed by “The Letter” of two worlds, the colonial and the Oriental, existing in an uneasy balance.

Analysis of W. Somerset Maugham’s Stories

Analysis of W. Somerset Maugham’s Novels

BIBLIOGRAPHY Maugham, W. Somerset. The Collected Short Stories. London: Penguin, 1977.

The Love Letter Book Review

Author: Lucinda Riley
Genre: Romance
Type: Novel
Publisher: Macmillan

Set in 1995 London, The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley follows the story of Joanna Haslam, an ambitious young journalist who uncovers a shocking secret at the funeral of the legendary actor, Sir James Harrison.

After stumbling upon a mysterious letter left behind by Sir James, Joanna embarks on a journey to unveil the truth that has been hidden for over seventy years. As she delves deeper into the dark secrets surrounding the letter , Joanna faces challenges from powerful forces determined to keep the truth buried.

The Love Letter explores the themes of secrets, betrayal, and the power of truth. With its intricate plot and unexpected twists, the novel highlights the consequences of keeping secrets and the impact they can have on individuals and society as a whole.

Lucinda Riley masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats , unravelling the layers of deception and uncovering the power of honesty and forgiveness.

Joanna Haslam is a compelling and relatable protagonist, whose determination to uncover the truth drives the plot forward. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her a character that readers will root for throughout the story.

Sir James Harrison is a complex and intriguing character whose legacy and secrets shape the narrative in unexpected ways. The supporting cast of characters adds depth and richness to the story, each playing a pivotal role in Joanna’s quest for truth.

Lucinda Riley’s The Love Letter is a captivating blend of romance and thriller , weaving together a tale of love, loss, and redemption. The author’s evocative prose and vivid storytelling transport readers to the glamour of 1995 London, where secrets lurk behind every corner.

The suspenseful plot keeps readers guessing until the very end, with twists and turns that will leave them breathless. Riley’s masterful storytelling and well-drawn characters make The Love Letter a must-read for fans of romantic thrillers.

In conclusion, The Love Letter by Lucinda Riley is a mesmerizing tale of love and deception that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and powerful themes, this novel is a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling and emotional story.

Lucinda Riley’s storytelling prowess shines in this compelling romance thriller, making The Love Letter a standout addition to the genre.

The Last List of Mabel Beaumont Book Review

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Lucinda Riley

Lucinda Riley is a bestselling author known for her gripping and emotional novels. She has written several acclaimed books , including The Love Letter, which tells the story of a young journalist who uncovers a series of love letters that unravel a dark family secret. With her rich storytelling and intricate plots, Riley has captivated readers around the world.

Riley’s dedication to her craft and ability to weave together past and present make her a standout in the literary world. Her books have garnered praise for their depth, emotion, and compelling narratives. With a growing fan base and a reputation for delivering powerful and unforgettable stories, Lucinda Riley continues to leave a lasting impact on readers everywhere.

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Review: The Letter Keeper by Charles Martin

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Combining heart-wrenching emotion with edge-of-your-seat tension, New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin explores the true power of sacrificial love.

Murphy Shepherd has made a career of finding those no one else could—survivors of human trafficking. His life’s mission is helping others find freedom . . . but then the nightmare strikes too close to home.

When his new wife, her daughter, and two other teenage girls are stolen, Murphy is left questioning all he has thought to be true. With more dead ends than leads, he has no idea how to find his loved ones. After everything is stripped away, love is what remains.

Hope feels lost, but Murphy is willing to expend his last breath trying to bring them home.

The Letter Keeper by Charles Martin is a reflective yet, action-packed mystery. This newest addition to the Murphy Shepherd series can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first book for important backstory.

Murphy Shepherd and his mentor Bones are Anglican priests who also rescue victims of human trafficking. Murphy is taking some much-needed time off from his latest case when he is injured after someone attempts to kill him. His recovery takes place in Colorado at the safe compound he and Bones have built. Surrounded by his loved ones, Murphy reflects on his past decisions, his deep love for his first wife and his compulsion to save the unsavable.

Murphy is no stranger to loss or sacrifice. He and Bones will go to any lengths to rescue then provide a safe haven for those who fallen prey to human traffickers. Although Murphy has yet to forgive Bones for his unexpected betrayal, their lives are very closely intertwined. With a new woman to love, will Murphy finally make peace with his past?

Murphy and Bones are also attempting to figure out who tried to kill Murphy. They are also uncertain whether this person will try again. With security on high alert, they go about their daily lives as Murphy regains his strength. Just as Murphy is moving on to the next phase in his life, his loved ones are taken from him. Will he and Bones find them before it is too late?

The Letter Keeper is an absolutely riveting mystery with an engrossing storyline. Murphy and Bones are multi-layered characters with true to life strengths and weaknesses. The other characters are richly developed whose recovery from their pasts remains a work in progress. Murphy’s new love is heartwarming but not without a few obstacles to overcome. With pulse-pounding urgency, Charles Martin brings this suspenseful novel to a jaw-dropping conclusion. Old and new fans of the Murphy Shepherd series will be impatiently awaiting next installment due to a stunning revelation.

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Filed under Charles Martin , Christian , Contemporary , Murphy Shepherd Series , Mystery , Rated B+ , Review , Suspense , The Letter Keeper , Thomas Nelson Publishing

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The scarlet letter, common sense media reviewers.

Classic novel of American religion, morality, and hypocrisy.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

The Scarlet Letter is one of the most celebrated n

Differing views of morality and sin are what drive

Although she has committed an act that offends the

Illicit sex is, of course, at the center of The Sc

Parents need to know that The Scarlet Letter is a classic American novel that deals with adultery, sin, religion, and redemption. Hawthorne's prose is dense with irony and symbolism, but readers who persevere will be rewarded by his subtle humor and acute understanding of human foibles.

Educational Value

The Scarlet Letter is one of the most celebrated novels in early American literature and is probably the magnum opus of its author, Nathaniel Hawthorne. It vividly depicts Puritan life in Massachusetts during the mid-1600s and explores issues of American morality, religion, and hypocrisy. Its use of symbolism can't be missed. The novel is frequently used in high school and early college literature classes and is a favorite example for discussion on AP tests and the like.

Positive Messages

Differing views of morality and sin are what drive the narrative of The Scarlet Letter . Hester bears the public shame for her transgression, but there are others who suffer for it in secret. Hester's unwavering goodness ultimately restores some of her standing in the community. Redemption is available to those who work for it.

Positive Role Models

Although she has committed an act that offends the morals of all her neighbors, Hester remains resolute in her pledge not to reveal the father of her child or to disclose a secret concerning her long-absent husband. She is a tender and loving mother. She even does charitable work, which allows her eventually to return to the good graces of the townspeople.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Illicit sex is, of course, at the center of The Scarlet Letter 's premise and plot. Hester is ostracized because she dares to raise a child out of wedlock and refuses to name the father. She and others come to bear responsibility for their actions. But this being a 19th-century novel about 17th-century Puritans, Hester's affair is not described in any detail likely to offend modern sensibilities.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Where to read, community reviews.

Parents say (3)
Kids say (9)

Based on 3 parent reviews

Should not be required reading…..

What's the story.

Set in the mid-1600s in a Puritan village near Boston, MA, THE SCARLET LETTER chronicles the spiritual journey of Hester Prynne, a married woman who becomes a social outcast when she conceives a child out of wedlock during her husband's long absence. Forced by the outraged townspeople to wear a vivid letter \"A\" for adultery on the breast of her gown, Hester refuses to name her daughter's father and accepts a life set apart from nearly everyone she knows. Only the intervention of the Rev. Arthur Dimmesdale keeps Hester and her impish daughter Pearl together. When Hester's missing husband secretly returns, posing as a doctor and calling himself Roger Chillingworth, the stage is set for a tumultuous story of sin, tragedy, and redemption.

Is It Any Good?

Hawthorne's prose can seem complicated and stilted to modern ears, but a careful reading reveals his delicious use of irony and symbolism to make his points about American morality and hypocrisy. Written in the mid-1800s, The Scarlet Letter is one of the most acclaimed early America novels and is frequently assigned in upper-level high school and entry-level college English Literature classes. It examines issues of sin and redemption and paints a vivid portrait of Puritan life in the mid-1600s.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about how views about adultery and children born out of wedlock have changed over time.

What is it about Hester's attitude regarding her affair that so angers her fellow townspeople? Why doesn't the father of the child come forward?

Young Pearl is regarded by some of the villagers as a kind of demon-child. Does her behavior in the book strike you as normal for a child her age? Do you believe that the sins of a father or mother can be passed along to a child?

The Scarlet Letter is noted for Hawthorne's use of symbols. How is the letter "A" used as a symbol? What does it mean in different contexts?

This novel is considered a classic and is often required reading in school. Why do you think that is?

Book Details

Author : Nathaniel Hawthorne
Genre : Historical Fiction
Topics : History
Book type : Fiction
Publisher : Simon & Brown
Publication date : January 1, 1850
Number of pages : 208
Last updated : June 11, 2015

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THE LAST LETTER

by Rebecca Yarros ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 26, 2019

A thoughtful and pensive tale with intelligent characters and a satisfying romance.

A promise to his best friend leads an Army serviceman to a family in need and a chance at true love in this novel.

Beckett Gentry is surprised when his Army buddy Ryan MacKenzie gives him a letter from Ryan’s sister, Ella. Abandoned by his mother, Beckett grew up in a series of foster homes. He is wary of attachments until he reads Ella’s letter. A single mother, Ella lives with her twins, Maisie and Colt, at Solitude, the resort she operates in Telluride, Colorado. They begin a correspondence, although Beckett can only identify himself by his call sign, Chaos. After Ryan’s death during a mission, Beckett travels to Telluride as his friend had requested. He bonds with the twins while falling deeply in love with Ella. Reluctant to reveal details of Ryan’s death and risk causing her pain, Beckett declines to disclose to Ella that he is Chaos. Maisie needs treatment for neuroblastoma, and Beckett formally adopts the twins as a sign of his commitment to support Ella and her children. He and Ella pursue a romance, but when an insurance investigator questions the adoption, Beckett is faced with revealing the truth about the letters and Ryan’s death, risking losing the family he loves. Yarros’ ( Wilder , 2016, etc.) novel is a deeply felt and emotionally nuanced contemporary romance bolstered by well-drawn characters and strong, confident storytelling. Beckett and Ella are sympathetic protagonists whose past experiences leave them cautious when it comes to love. Beckett never knew the security of a stable home life. Ella impulsively married her high school boyfriend, but the marriage ended when he discovered she was pregnant. The author is especially adept at developing the characters through subtle but significant details, like Beckett’s aversion to swearing. Beckett and Ella’s romance unfolds slowly in chapters that alternate between their first-person viewpoints. The letters they exchanged are pivotal to their connection, and almost every chapter opens with one. Yarros’ writing is crisp and sharp, with passages that are poetic without being florid. For example, in a letter to Beckett, Ella writes of motherhood: “But I’m not the center of their universe. I’m more like their gravity.” While the love story is the book’s focus, the subplot involving Maisie’s illness is equally well-developed, and the link between Beckett and the twins is heartfelt and sincere.

Pub Date: Feb. 26, 2019

ISBN: 978-1-64063-533-3

Page Count: 432

Publisher: Entangled: Amara

Review Posted Online: Jan. 2, 2019

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 2019

Review Program: Kirkus Indie

ROMANCE | FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE | GENERAL ROMANCE

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by Rebecca Yarros

New York Times Bestseller

IndieBound Bestseller

IT ENDS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 2, 2016

Packed with riveting drama and painful truths, this book powerfully illustrates the devastation of abuse—and the strength of...

Hoover’s ( November 9 , 2015, etc.) latest tackles the difficult subject of domestic violence with romantic tenderness and emotional heft.

At first glance, the couple is edgy but cute: Lily Bloom runs a flower shop for people who hate flowers; Ryle Kincaid is a surgeon who says he never wants to get married or have kids. They meet on a rooftop in Boston on the night Ryle loses a patient and Lily attends her abusive father’s funeral. The provocative opening takes a dark turn when Lily receives a warning about Ryle’s intentions from his sister, who becomes Lily’s employee and close friend. Lily swears she’ll never end up in another abusive home, but when Ryle starts to show all the same warning signs that her mother ignored, Lily learns just how hard it is to say goodbye. When Ryle is not in the throes of a jealous rage, his redeeming qualities return, and Lily can justify his behavior: “I think we needed what happened on the stairwell to happen so that I would know his past and we’d be able to work on it together,” she tells herself. Lily marries Ryle hoping the good will outweigh the bad, and the mother-daughter dynamics evolve beautifully as Lily reflects on her childhood with fresh eyes. Diary entries fancifully addressed to TV host Ellen DeGeneres serve as flashbacks to Lily’s teenage years, when she met her first love, Atlas Corrigan, a homeless boy she found squatting in a neighbor’s house. When Atlas turns up in Boston, now a successful chef, he begs Lily to leave Ryle. Despite the better option right in front of her, an unexpected complication forces Lily to cut ties with Atlas, confront Ryle, and try to end the cycle of abuse before it’s too late. The relationships are portrayed with compassion and honesty, and the author’s note at the end that explains Hoover’s personal connection to the subject matter is a must-read.

Pub Date: Aug. 2, 2016

ISBN: 978-1-5011-1036-8

Page Count: 320

Publisher: Atria

Review Posted Online: May 30, 2016

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2016

GENERAL ROMANCE | ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

More by Colleen Hoover

by Colleen Hoover

More About This Book

Dav Pilkey Had Bestselling Print Book of 2021

SEEN & HEARD

Colleen Hoover Is Back. Let the BookTokking Begin

LOVE AND OTHER WORDS

by Christina Lauren ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 10, 2018

With frank language and patient plotting, this gangly teen crush grows into a confident adult love affair.

Eleven years ago, he broke her heart. But he doesn’t know why she never forgave him.

Toggling between past and present, two love stories unfold simultaneously. In the first, Macy Sorensen meets and falls in love with the boy next door, Elliot Petropoulos, in the closet of her dad’s vacation home, where they hide out to discuss their favorite books. In the second, Macy is working as a doctor and engaged to a single father, and she hasn’t spoken to Elliot since their breakup. But a chance encounter forces her to confront the truth: what happened to make Macy stop speaking to Elliot? Ultimately, they’re separated not by time or physical remoteness but by emotional distance—Elliot and Macy always kept their relationship casual because they went to different schools. And as a teen, Macy has more to worry about than which girl Elliot is taking to the prom. After losing her mother at a young age, Macy is navigating her teenage years without a female role model, relying on the time-stamped notes her mother left in her father’s care for guidance. In the present day, Macy’s father is dead as well. She throws herself into her work and rarely comes up for air, not even to plan her upcoming wedding. Since Macy is still living with her fiance while grappling with her feelings for Elliot, the flashbacks offer steamy moments, tender revelations, and sweetly awkward confessions while Macy makes peace with her past and decides her future.

Pub Date: April 10, 2018

ISBN: 978-1-5011-2801-1

Page Count: 416

Publisher: Gallery Books/Simon & Schuster

Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2018

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 2018

GENERAL ROMANCE | ROMANCE | FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

More by Christina Lauren

by Christina Lauren

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The Scarlet Letter

By nathaniel hawthorne.

Nathaniel Hawthorne cuts his readership an enjoyable slice of the rich piece of American history through his model book, ‘The Scarlet Letter,’ where he explores the cultures and traditions of a puritan revolaution that controlled the Commonwealth of Massachusetts nearly four hundred years ago.

About the Book

Article written by Victor Onuorah

Degree in Journalism from University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

In ‘ The Scarlet Letter ,’ Hawthorne pays particular attention to the cultures and traditions of a dominant Puritanism practice and couldn’t help but question the rationale behind its heavily repressive demands from the people. No doubt the book is a bit unsuitable for the children’s bookshelf, but Hawthorne’s refined and courteous handling of some sensitive matters like adultery make the book even more appealing and approachable by a vast majority of his audience.

A Gripping Story that Hooks Reader’s Attention

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ is one book that can excite the reader’s mind and grab their attention very quickly as soon as they get into the thick of things. However, you might have to wait through a longwinded prologue plus endure some below-par energy chapters to get to the important parts of the book.

That notwithstanding, Hawthorne may well have proved himself the king of gothic writing with this shocking, pervasive, and mind-boggling storyline, which carries with it scenes of a helpless single mother being publicly paraded with her baby for her sin of adultery as she is forced to wear a dress that symbolizes her sin.

But that is not the only buzz in the book, as other scenes are gripping with suspense and dripping uncertainties throughout the book. Readers get to see scenes of certain characters like Mistress Hibbins who commune – or claim to commune – with the devil.

There is the witch’s convention. There are conspiracies, lies, secret plans, and meetings at dark corners and brushes purported between Hester Prynne, Roger Chillingworth, and Arthur Dimmesdale – the book’s three leading characters. When the story hits top gear, it’s hard not to get tied down or surrender all your attention to the thrills of the book’s plot.

Well-Defined Roles for Specific Characters

Aside from the brilliance in storyline and plot, another praiseworthy aspect of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s masterpiece, ‘ The Scarlet Letter ,’ is how he worked with unique characters – with well-defined roles.

Picking, building, and assigning roles to the book’s characters are some of the foundational blocks an author must get right if they want to have a meaningful final book, and a lack of these can sometimes reduce the quality of even the best stories.

However, with Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ‘ The Scarlet Letter ,’ the majority of the readers will find that majority of the characters are unique, trimmed, and stay relevant to their roles in the book. This is opposed to several poorly written books whose characters are unrefined, their roles vague, and tend to overshadow – in terms of numbers – the actual roles available to be assigned.

A True Definition of a Gothic Romance

There are only a few books that check all the right boxes of a classic gothic narrative, and Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ is undoubtedly one of such books. Other classic books in this rank might include Emily Brontë’s ‘ Wuthering Heights ,’ and Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein .’

These books, as is with Hawthorne’s ‘ The Scarlet Letter ,’ embody the qualities of true gothic fiction because they deal with dark, supernatural, horrific – and often slightly disturbing themes of people and places being haunted by ghosts, stories about witches and dark magic, or perhaps based on a certain preternatural phenomenon and occurrence.

Hawthorne’s use of daylight and nighttime in ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ is both scary and amazing at the same time. There is also impressive incorporation of nature into the different scenes to further portray a deeper precarious, gothic atmosphere.

The Story is Slow-Paced, and the Words Complex

One of the very few downsides to Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ is the fact that the author took too much time to get to the gripping part of the book – so if you are a first-time reader looking to pick this one up, patience is a virtue you must exercise.

As per the book’s long-windedness, one notices an overly stretched prologue, followed by several less-than-interesting chapters – adding up to chapter ten. After this, the plot matures, and the full quality of a true gothic romance kicks in, and it’s all a joy a read from here on.

Another aspect that doesn’t add up to the praise the book is getting involves a rather redundant and over implementation of unnecessarily hard words – including a few repetitions of the same words here and there.

Even though this may not have a significant direct impact on the quality of the purpose of Hawthorne’s storyline, it is a clear distraction readers will come up against while seeking to enjoy the classic work.

Less than Satisfactory Ending

Hawthorne does a fantastic work wrapping up ‘ The Scarlet Letter ,’ and it’s easy to see this given how he’s managed to help his characters live out all the important questions readers might want to ask of the book. However, in so doing, he sets off a loop that adds up to the book’s blonder.

This blonder is nothing but the fact that he now has to rush the book’s ending – horribly – in as little as pages of chapter 24 – the last chapter. The consequences of this are that he skips the interesting story of Pearl as she tours through Europe and marries into wealth; gives Chillingworth a less than appealing end, and fast forwards to several decades later to describe the death of the book’s protagonist, Hester Prynne.

What age grade is ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ suitable for?

‘The Scarlet Letter ’ is a book that includes adultery as one of its primary themes. However, the author walks through such a subject in a way that anyone from 12 years upward can read, understand, and not feel aggravated by the book.

What historical timeline does ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ portray?

Though published in the middle of the 19th century, the book goes two centuries back and focuses on the era of the puritan culture and legacy.

Where did Nathaniel Hawthorne get inspiration for ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’?

Hawthorne’s family had a long-standing history of upholding the puritan laws, as his ancestors were some of the movement’s most prominent leaders. This history gripped Hawthorne’s fascination, so he sought to explore it.

The Scarlet Letter Review: America’s 1600’s Puritan Legacy

The Scarlet Letter By Nathaniel Hawthorne

Book Title: The Scarlet Letter

Book Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne

Book Edition: First Edition

Book Format: Paperback

Publisher - Organization: Signet Classic

Date published: November 8, 1850

ISBN: 978-0451526112

Number Of Pages: 223

The Scarlet Letter Review: Recapturing the Heights of America’s 1600’s Puritan Legacy

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s work in ‘ The Scarlet Letter ’ continues to prove how much of a historical relic it’s become through many generations. It is indeed a rich piece of history covering the apex of extreme puritan tradition – through the eye of young Hester Prynne, who is scapegoated and punished before the world for a moral crime. Hawthorne, through this book, once again reveals to us an important and emotional past of humanity’s cultural evolution.

Historically rich narrative
Helpful lessons for young people
Exposes the ills of society’s rulers
Explicit themes
Misogynistic in nature
Several human rights issues are in play

About Victor Onuorah

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What Should You Read Next? Here Are the Best Reviewed Books of the Week

Featuring new titles by leigh bardugo, alexandra fuller, anne lamott, and more.

Leigh Bardugo’s The Familiar , Alexandra Fuller’s Fi , and Anne Lamott’s Somehow all feature among the Best Reviewed Books of the Week.

Brought to you by Book Marks , Lit Hub’s home for book reviews.

1. The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo (Flatiron)

“Bardugo brilliantly explores the wavy line between the supernatural and the divine … When Bardugo chooses to venture further into the darkness, it’s that much more devastating because of how much fun the reader has been having. In fact, she is a master of anticlimax: She builds apprehension for huge events that do not come to pass, then blindsides the reader with something totally unexpected instead … A thrilling addition to her canon about oppression and liberation, and anyone interested in this historical period and the themes she’s exploring will find it engrossing.”

–Charlie Jane Anders ( The Washington Post )

2. The Sleepwalkers by Scarlett Thomas (Simon & Schuster)

6 Rave • 1 Positive

“For Thomas, nothing seems to be off the table. She shifts between erotic thrills, gothic drama, postmodern deconstruction and kitchen-sink realism. Through her bold storytelling, The Sleepwalkers becomes a work of peculiar, gonzo genius … Thomas takes a glamorous late-capitalist setting, with rosé and catamarans, and shreds, twists and warps it into a story that is surprising, humane and political to its bones.”

–Flynn Berry ( The New York Times Book Review )

3. The Limits by Nell Freudenberger (Knopf)

2 Rave • 5 Positive Read an excerpt from The Limits here

“Freudenberger is fluent in every realm, social conundrum, and crime against the earth she brings into focus, keenly attuned to science and emotion, tradition and high-tech, race and gender, greed and conscience, irony and tragedy. Each character’s challenges are significant on scales intimate and global and their wrestling with secrets, anger, and fear grows increasingly suspenseful in this lambent, deeply sympathetic, and thought-provoking novel.”

–Donna Seaman ( Booklist )

1. Fi: A Memoir of My Son by Alexandra Fuller (Grove Press)

“Fuller leaves nothing under the table, under the rug or under wraps … The last thing you expect to do when you read a book about a child dying is to laugh … The wit in this memoir is soul-piercing … Fuller is sagacious and perspicacious. She is a sublime writer. In the hands of another memoirist, the story of Fi might be unbearably sad, but this book is a mesmeric celebration of a boy who died too soon, a mother’s love and her resilience. It will help others surviving loss—surviving life.”

–David Sheff ( The New York Times Book Review )

=2. The Wives: A Memoir by Simone Gorrindo (Gallery/Scout Press)

3 Rave • 2 Positive

“Gorrindo’s memoir is a gorgeously rendered peek behind the curtain of military life, as she recounts reckoning with her husband’s participation in violence—and examining why his job exists at all.”

–Courtney Eathorne ( Booklist )

=2. Somehow: Thoughts on Love by Anne Lamott (Riverhead)

3 Rave • 2 Positive Read an essay by Anne Lamott here

“In her trademark godly yet snarky way, she extracts every life lesson from her latest new experience with the deft zeal of a chef reducing flour and fat to roux … At times, Somehow made me huffy about—by which I mean envious of—Lamott’s gift for writing powerfully, deeply, often radically, while appealing to, well, everyone … No matter one’s external descriptors, Lamott speaks to the human in all of us, challenging us to bear her beam of love, and our own.”

–Meredith Maran ( The Washington Post )

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Cook review: ‘Wicked Little Letters’ will shock and amuse audiences

I t’s more of a whydunit than a whodunit. And it’s still a good yarn, especially considering it’s based on a true story that happened in the early 1920s in England.

We first see Olivia Colman as Edith Swan, at home in Littlehampton, where she opens the 19 th letter that’s full of foul language.

Edith and her family are horrified at the string of letters that Edith has received. The missives seem to grow more profane as time goes by.

Edith blames the poison-pen notes on her Irish neighbor, Rose Goodings (Jessie Buckley), an exuberant, foul-mouthed single mother who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Edith’s pious father (Timothy Spall) becomes so outraged that he takes off to the police station and insists a constable investigate.

A constable who is assigned to the case visits a pub where the hard-drinking Rose is arrested then, eventually, jailed. Edith explains that the two neighbors once were fast friends until an incident at a party.

The letters, Edith explains, began shortly after that.

A woman constable listens to Rose, who continues to maintain her innocence. This constable takes a more scientific approach to finding the culprit, only to be admonished by her superior because the case isn’t hers to pursue.

This is a fine cast, with Spall especially detestable as the man who seems to enjoy punishing his daughter. Colman and Buckley are great, too. They’re particularly enjoyable in flashbacks when we can see how the women from two opposite worlds become friends.

The film has some comedy, some drama, and a little mystery. But, because of the incredibly foul language in the letters, it may shock some viewers with its “R” rating – that makes it unsuitable as family fare.

It’s fun romp with an underlying theme about oppression and the lengths women have gone to overcome it.

Running time: One hour and 40 minutes.

Rated: R for extremely foul language and sexual content.

At Cinemark, Davenport.

Watch the trailer here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.

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BookTok: Trends and community

During and following the pandemic, reading has been on the rise. This has been evident among online communities, like and including TikTok’s “ BookTok .” There, readers share book reviews, talk about their reading habits and recommend books to other TikTok users.

Since then, BookTok has brought a very specific brand of reading to the forefront of mainstream pop culture. While reading had never been fully removed from pop culture, the additional leisure time people experienced while quarantining in their homes in 2020 required them to (re)discover ways to pass the time; many young people rediscovered a love of reading that stuck with them, even after life returned to normal. In particular, young women have benefited from the community cultivated by BookTok. Broadly, people who may have previously viewed reading as a solitary activity were newly able to connect with other readers over their shared interest in literature.

Beyond providing an online community for young readers to take part in, BookTok has reshaped the way books are recommended and marketed. Unlike YouTube, TikTok demands short-form content, forcing users to engage with their audiences in a snappy, concise manner or risk losing their attention. With the seemingly endless stream of content available on TikTok’s “ For You ” feed, content creators recommending books on TikTok are compelled to make their recommendations quickly. To do so, they often organize their recommendations around tropes and aesthetics which readers are already familiar with.

You might expect that this sort of surface-level methodology would prove fruitless, but it’s actually fairly effective. The most popular genres on BookTok — fantasy and romance, which, combined, have been newly termed “ romantasy ” — often have similar aesthetics and tropes at play, allowing for readers to discover new titles that align with what they know they like . Popular examples of these aesthetics and tropes might include fantasy books centered around fae and faeries , as popularized by authors like Sarah J. Maas and Holly Black, or, more broadly, romance novels where the love interests start off as enemies . These tropes and aesthetics often overlap.

Of course, this is not the only genre popular on BookTok. Beyond romantasy, classic and contemporary works alike have been newly popularized by the “ dark academia ” aesthetic, which romanticizes higher education, art and literature. Donna Tartt’s The Secret History is credited with contributing greatly to the dark academia subculture. Alternatively, a dark academia post related to classic literature might include references to Wuthering Heights or any number of Virginia Woolf novels.

In spite of the success certain subgenres have found on BookTok, I would be remiss if I did not mention the controversies surrounding this community. One of the most common criticisms of BookTok is that its focus on tropes and aesthetics takes away from the actual act of reading — and that BookTok is reductive in focusing on social reception more than tangibly partaking in reading culture. This is not the only controversy that surrounds BookTok, but it is one of the most prominent, and there is merit to this critique.

BookTok is undoubtedly trend-centric , and the industry has been forced to respond accordingly. Bookstores have come to feature “BookTok” tables; publishers have come to seek out the romantasy books that are being demanded by consumers on TikTok . Because of BookTok, readers and publishers are increasingly attuned to one another, offering readers unexpected power and agency that the industry takes into consideration because of the BookTok community’s real impact on sales.

It cannot be understated that the value of reading indeed extends far beyond a book’s tropes and aesthetics — but BookTok has nevertheless cultivated a community with a positive impact, inviting readers to discover, consume and discuss literature online. Really, it’s an apt response to the prevalence of short-form content. BookTok is at its most successful in how deftly its users — readers and authors alike — share the essence of a book with their viewers through their reviews, pitches and recommendations.

In short, while advertising books based on their tropes and aesthetics may simplify the works discussed, it’s nevertheless exciting that BookTok has managed to connect readers and authors like never before. Furthermore, taking advantage of short-form content to revitalize interest in reading across genres is a worthy response to our increasingly digital world.

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COMMENTS

The Letter: Hughes, Kathryn: 9781472229953: Amazon.com: Books
REVIEW THE LETTER is a touching tale of love, loss, survival and joy. The book was immediately engaging. KATHRYN HUGHES has created a page-turning story that will keep you entertained. Chapters alternate between Chrissie, Billy and Tina; and between 1973 and 1939. Despite the various points on view and change in timeframes, the book is ...
The Letter Review Prize for Short Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and
The Letter Review Prize (March - April) Is Now Open The Prize is awarded every two months in the categories of Short Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and Unpublished Books.We offer a yearly Prize pool of $30,000 USD, and publication for our winners. Enter Here Letter Review emerges as a hallowed space where words bleed, mend, and
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes Review Date: 30 October 2015 Author: Kathryn Hughes Release Date: 8 October 2015 Publishers: Headline Review ISBN -10: 1472229959 ISBN - 13: 1472229953 416pp Available in Paperback, Kindle and audio The Last Word Review Prepare to surrender a weekend to The Letter, a deeply moving love story that will…
Letter Review
The Letter Review Prize (March - April) Is Now Open The Prize is awarded every two months in the categories of Short Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and Unpublished Books. We offer a yearly Prize pool of $30,000 USD, and publication for our winners. The Letter Review Prize for Short Fiction Letter Review is offering $1000 USD
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes ISBN: 978-1-4722-2995-3 Published: 8th October 2015 by Headline Available to buy on Amazon in multiple formats (e-book/paperback). 'Discover the novel that has broken a thousand hearts… Tina Craig works all the hours she can and volunteers in a charity shop to avoid her unhappy home.
The Letter: The #1 Bestseller that everyone is talking about: The most
The book is split into 3 parts.Part 1Beginning in March 1973, 'The Letter' is discovered in an old suit that has been donated to the charity shop were Tina Craig works. She is an abused wife who works at the shop as a volunteer to escape her husband Rick.The story then transports us back to spring 1939 and how Billy Stirling came to write ...
Book Review: The Letter by Kathryn Hughes
The Letter follows the life of Tina in the 1970s who seeks respite from her abusive marriage by volunteering at a charity shop. One day, while sorting through the pockets of a second-hand suit, she comes across an old letter. It is still firmly sealed and un-franked. Unable to resist the pull of curiosity, Tina opens the letter.
Review
But this book was a self-published sensation, and already has close to 2000 5 star reviews on Amazon. The Letter by Kathryn Hughes was originally published by Matador: world rights (including film and tv) have now been bought by Headline, who will relaunch the e-book on 19th March, with the paperback to follow in October.
The Letter: The new emotional and gripping family drama for 2023 from
Reader reviews for The Letter: 'Loved the story and the characters' Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars 'It's so well written and the story line was addictive.' Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars 'What a brilliant book - so many rollercoasters, emotional, funny and sad' Netgalley reviewer, 5 stars
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Reviews, essays, best sellers and children's books coverage from The New York Times Book Review.
Analysis of W. Somerset Maugham's The Letter
For six months in 1921 and four months in 1925, W. Somerset Maugham traveled throughout the British-ruled Malay States, befriending the civil servants, planters, officials, and hostesses of the Malaysian colonies—and gathering abundant material for his fiction. "The Letter," one of Maugham's best-known short stories, is the result of these travels.
The Letter Keeper (Murphy Shepherd, #2)
When I finished the book I was totally and utterly speechless, crying like a crazy woman and couldn't possibly write a worthy review of this book. I still don't feel like I can adequately put into words a review that will give glory to this book and to the amazing author that Charles Martin is. The Letter Keeper is a sequel to The Water Keeper.
The Girl in the Letter by Emily Gunnis
Emily Gunnis. A heartbreaking letter. A girl locked away. A mystery to be solved. 1956. When Ivy Jenkins falls pregnant she is sent in disgrace to St Margaret's, a dark, brooding house for unmarried mothers. Her baby is adopted against her will. Ivy will never leave. Present day.
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A heart-breaking, heart-warming historical novel of love and survival inspired by real resistance workers during World War II Austria, and the mysterious love letter that connects generations of Jewish families. For readers of The Nightingale, Lilac Girls, and Sarah's Key. Austria, 1938. Kristoff is a young apprentice to a master Jewish stamp ...
The Love Letter Book Review
The Review. Lucinda Riley's The Love Letter is a captivating blend of romance and thriller, weaving together a tale of love, loss, and redemption. The author's evocative prose and vivid storytelling transport readers to the glamour of 1995 London, where secrets lurk behind every corner. The suspenseful plot keeps readers guessing until the ...
Review: The Letter Keeper by Charles Martin
Review: The Letter Keeper by Charles Martin is a reflective yet, action-packed mystery. This newest addition to the Murphy Shepherd series can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first book for important backstory. Murphy Shepherd and his mentor Bones are Anglican priests who also rescue victims of human trafficking.
The Scarlet Letter Book Review
Our review: Parents say ( 3 ): Kids say ( 9 ): Hawthorne's prose can seem complicated and stilted to modern ears, but a careful reading reveals his delicious use of irony and symbolism to make his points about American morality and hypocrisy. Written in the mid-1800s, The Scarlet Letter is one of the most acclaimed early America novels and is ...
The Letter Review Submission Manager
The Letter Review Submission Manager. We believe in literature. We believe in the importance and magic of new writing. The Letter Review is a Literary Journal dedicated to publishing new work, and assisting writers with help to get published, performed, and produced. We feature interviews with professional writers, publish helpful information ...
Unveiling 'The Last Letter" by Rebecca Yarros: Summary and Review
The Review Rebecca Yarros' emotionally gripping book The Last Letter deftly combines themes of love, grief, redemption, and the resiliency of the human spirit.
The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros
February 18, 2019. 2.5 Stars. The Last Letter is well written and emotional, however it just puts too many issues into one book. Ella is a young single mom of twins (aged 5-7 throughout the book), she owns a B&B in Colorado, her parents are deceased, and her brother is in the military overseas.
THE LAST LETTER
THE LAST LETTER. A thoughtful and pensive tale with intelligent characters and a satisfying romance. A promise to his best friend leads an Army serviceman to a family in need and a chance at true love in this novel. Beckett Gentry is surprised when his Army buddy Ryan MacKenzie gives him a letter from Ryan's sister, Ella.
The Scarlet Letter Review: America's 1600's Puritan Legacy
The Scarlet Letter Review: Recapturing the Heights of America's 1600's Puritan Legacy . Nathaniel Hawthorne's work in 'The Scarlet Letter' continues to prove how much of a historical relic it's become through many generations.It is indeed a rich piece of history covering the apex of extreme puritan tradition - through the eye of young Hester Prynne, who is scapegoated and ...
Wicked Little Letters
Wicked Little Letters is a 2023 British black comedy mystery film directed by Thea Sharrock, written by Jonny Sweet, and starring Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, Anjana Vasan, Joanna Scanlan, Gemma Jones, Malachi Kirby, Lolly Adefope, Eileen Atkins, and Timothy Spall.Based on a true scandal, it follows an investigation into the anonymous author of numerous crudely insulting letters sent to the ...
What Should You Read Next? Here Are the Best Reviewed Books of the Week
Leigh Bardugo's The Familiar, Alexandra Fuller's Fi, and Anne Lamott's Somehow all feature among the Best Reviewed Books of the Week. Brought to you by Book Marks, Lit Hub's home for book reviews. * Fiction 1. The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo (Flatiron) 8 Rave "Bardugo brilliantly explores the wavy line between the supernatural and the […]
The Letter Home by Rachael English
The Letter Home shines a light on one of the most turbulent, difficult and impactful times in Ireland's history, that period being the time of The Great Famine in the late 1840's. The last time I read a book that focused on the famine was way back in my childhood when Marita Conlon McKenna's book, Under the Hawthorn Tree, was published.
Cook review: 'Wicked Little Letters' will shock and amuse ...
Story by Linda Cook. • 4d • 2 min read. It's more of a whydunit than a whodunit. And it's still a good yarn, especially considering it's based on a true story that happened in the early ...
BookTok: Trends and community
BookTok is undoubtedly trend-centric, and the industry has been forced to respond accordingly. Bookstores have come to feature "BookTok" tables; publishers have come to seek out the romantasy books that are being demanded by consumers on TikTok. Because of BookTok, readers and publishers are increasingly attuned to one another, offering ...

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