The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy; Rachel Joyce
2015 -Random House
Rachel Joyce's first
book, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (2012), is a book which made
my top reads list for that year. In that story her protagonist, Harold
who had recently retired receives a letter from an old friend who tells
him she is dying. Harold feels compelled to walk 600+ miles to see his
old friend before she passes away.
In
The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy, it's Queenie's turn to tell her
story before she passes away from cancer. The last time she had ever
seen her friend Harold she left Kingsbridge without even saying goodbye.
Now from her hospice room with the help of Sister Mary Innoconnu,
Queenie shares her story. How she met Harold, how she came to know
Harold's son David who has since died and her relationship with him, and
her fond memories of the years she has spent at her beach house sea
garden in Embleton Bay. Most important for Queenie though is unburdening
herself of one particular event which had an impact on the rest of her
life.
As
Queenie shares her story, periodic postcards arrive at the hospice from
Harold as he continues his journey to see Queenie one last time.
For
readers of Joyce's earlier book, there are many new revelations to
experience through Queenie. Reflective in tone, there is sadness, but
also humor to be found. I especially loved the descriptions of her life
and solitude living by the sea and tending her garden.The author has
created a cast of interesting and quirky characters from the hospice
where Queenie now resides. She skillfully tells the final stories
of others who are dying in a respectful manner as well. The story is
not written in traditional letter format, but nonetheless packs an
emotional punch. I'm not sure this novel will make my tops list for
2015, but it is still a very good story. I would recommend reading
Harold's story first though, if you have not already done so.
4/5 stars
(eGalley)
4/5 stars
(eGalley)
I want to read both of these books. The Harold Fry book was recommended highly by one of my friends from book club. She told us, "It's not a mystery, but...".
ReplyDeleteI still haven't read The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, but you have revived my interest! And now, another perspective in this new novel...
ReplyDeleteI didn't realize this book is related to Harold Fry. I need to read both of them!
ReplyDeleteI have this one waiting for me on my kindle. I loved Harold Fry, so am really looking forward to Queenie's side of the story!
ReplyDeleteSo.... I need to read "Harold Fry" first? Because I have it on my shelf--- in my TBR pile. I can do it!
ReplyDeleteI don't think you have to read Harold Fry first, but it would be advisable since there are some things in this book that would be spoilers for Harold Fry.
DeleteI am anxious to read this as I loved Harold Fry!
ReplyDeleteThat does sound like a good story.
ReplyDeleteI loved Harold Fry, so will add this to my list. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI read and loved Harold's story so I am sure I will pick up this book.
ReplyDeleteI just, two seconds ago, read another review of this book. it's a sign! Must read!
ReplyDeleteI liked the first book better but for sure it is must reading for fans of the initial book.
ReplyDeleteloved The Unlikely Pilgrimage and currently thoroughly enjoying this one as well! Beautiful writing!
ReplyDeleteI'm reading this now and loving every minute!
ReplyDeleteOh this sounds lovely and sad at the same time. I'll have to look for The Unlikely Pilgrimage as I've missed that one and add both to the TBR. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI haven't heard nearly as much about this one as I did the Unlikely Pilgrimage. They both sound terrific.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a beautifully sad book. I tend to like books like that because they are often so real and honest. Thanks for giving a heads up about this, haven't heard of it before.
ReplyDeleteI loved the Harold Fry book and would love to read this one too. This is the first I'm hearing about this book. It sounds great!
ReplyDeleteYou've made me want to read both of them!
ReplyDeleteI have this one to be read soon. I loved Harold Fry so am looking forward to Queenie's story.
ReplyDeleteI listened to Harold Fry and didn't fall in love with it as so many others did. I think I'll give this one a try in the print format. You got my attention with, "I especially loved the descriptions of her life and solitude living by the sea and tending her garden." Sounds like my kind of book!
ReplyDelete