Lies and Letters

by Ashtyn Newbold

[sstaley]

I must be honest here, I instantly disliked the main character who is telling her story in first person. She is mean, conceited, snobbish, and full of herself. I believe this is exactly what the author wanted her readers to feel as we first meet Charlotte. She has been raised by a mother whom Charlotte follows in word and deed. Her main focus is to find and win a rich husband with a title. Right away things fall apart in Charlotte's and her sister Clara's life because of their father's poor choices. Clara is nothing like Charlotte and I had nothing but sympathy for Clara as she is mistreated a lot by her older sister, even though she had her moments of being childish in the beginning.

Thank goodness Charlotte is humbled by life circumstances and she starts to change. It's not an easy process as she is so set in her ways and embroiled by many lies as she tries once again to catch a suitable man for a husband. Both girls have to learn to fend for themselves. The joy in this book is watching them lean and grow and become better people as hardships come into their lives. This part of the book is very satisfying.

The best character in the book is James. He truly was a breath of fresh air when he comes along. He does so much good for the sisters, especially Charlotte. I just wished that Charlotte had been able to see his goodness earlier on but her proud nature wouldn't allow it.

This is a book with a romance that eventually comes along and not in the way you usually see in a romance novel. I liked how all of this unfolded. Don't give up on this book and hang in there and you will be greatly rewarded with a touching story and ending. I really like the way the author writes such rich characters and settings. This book is perfect for a summer afternoon of reading.