If I had to choose one word to describe ‘Dearest Josephine,’ it would be “lovely.”
Everything about this book was simply lovely. From the characters to the prose to the plot, it was a literary masterpiece – a rather bold statement, considering we’re talking about a book published in 2021. Yet I consider this book to be the poster child of the term “modern classic.” So let’s break down all the reasons why! But first, here’s the summary (courtesy of Goodreads). 😉
2020: Chocolate and Earl Grey tea can’t fix Josie De Clare’s horrible year. She mourned the death of her father and suffered a teen-life crisis, which delayed her university plans. But when her father’s will reveals a family-owned property in Northern England, Josie leaves London to find clarity at the secluded manor house. While exploring the estate, she discovers two-hundred-year-old love letters written by an elusive novelist, all addressed to someone named Josephine. And then she discovers a novel in which it seems like she’s the heroine…
1820: Novelist Elias Roch loves a woman he can never be with. Born the bastard son to a nobleman and cast out from society, Elias seeks refuge in his mind with the quirky heroine who draws him into a fantasy world of scandal, betrayal, and unconditional love. Convinced she’s his soulmate, Elias writes letters to her, all of which divulge the tragedy and trials of his personal life.
As fiction blurs into reality, Josie and Elias must decide: How does one live if love can’t wait? Separated by two hundred years, they fight against time to find each other in a story of her, him, and the novel written by the man who loves her.
The blurb hardly scratches the surface of this book’s depth and intrigue. Few books have touched me so deeply, and that’s saying something! I’ve read two other books by Caroline George, and I can confirm that she just has a beautiful style and is an expert when it comes to theme – every single one of her books has a definite, unique vibe. She has a simple but elegant way of describing things, and it makes all of her works something to remember. All I’m saying is that if writing is a superpower…Caroline George has it! And while I’ve enjoyed George’s other books, Dearest Josephine is my favorite in every sense.
One thing I particularly adored about ‘Dearest Josephine’ was how the characters were so incredibly lovable. I’ve read many books where the plot is great, but the characters are awful. But in this book, I laughed when the characters laughed, cried when they cried, and was extremely sad when it ended. The style of Dearest Josephine is so gorgeously contemplative and poetic, full of similes and quotations that truly make this book a comfort book. And it’s not your run-of-the-mill romance – it explores what it truly means to love and be loved, the struggles of trying to heal after loss, and learning to cope when life changes in ways that turn your world upside down. It was a beautiful, eye-opening read that trumps all the other books I’ve read so far this year.
Not only this, but it was the best of both worlds! Contemporary and historical fiction are literally my most favourite genres, and ‘Dearest Josephine’ showcased them in a way that was both realistic and personal. This book was so deeply personal. With all the themes of grief, hope and trust, I found myself sympathizing with these characters to an extent that I never really thought possible. As a result, it most definitely tugged on my heartstrings. And I might even have a broken one, not gonna lie. 😂
However, many people have placed this book on their DNF lists, and others have been just downright confused by the book, and I think it should be said that this book may not be for everyone – no book, however good it is, will please absolutely every reader. But if you’re a quiet soul who enjoys mystery, epistolary novels, contemporary fiction, historical fiction, regency romance, beautiful prose and style, and love stories that make all the others fade to the background, this is a story for you.
All this being said, I recommend Dearest Josephine for ages 14+ with a rating of five stars! I hope you’ll be able to pick up this book soon and that you’ll enjoy it as much as I did. ❤
Until next time, adieu!
Do you like historical fiction and romance genres? Which genres do you like to read? Tell us in the comments down below.
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