The Letters

This was a very touching, poignant love story.Each author brought their own style and emotions into this book,for an inside look into their characters' marriage.

I was surprised when I saw the average ratings for this book. At first I didn't buy it because of the ratings, but I am glad I did. I thought it was fantastic. I am a big fan of Luanne Rice, and while this is somewhat of a departure from her usual writing style, I found myself rapidly turning the pages to find out what happened next. The main part of the story is set in the wilderness of Alaska, a place that is mystical, beautiful and at times harsh. I enjoyed getting to know the back story of the two main characters, a husband and wife, going through a difficult time in their marriage. As in all good marriages, communication is one of the most important tools to keep the relationship healthy. I felt like I was a dear, close member of their family, reading their intimate thoughts and feelings. The honesty depicted in the book is precious. There are times in a marriage where a traumatic event can either make you stronger or break you, and this book was a good reminder for me, to treasure my loved ones every day.

I was unable to put this book down. It was very riveting. I have a daughter teaching in Alaska and it brought even more of her newly adopted State to life for me.

This book is sweet and an endearing. It is sentimental and that's not an insult. It reminds us that relationships are hard work and that we all make mistakes. It also reassures that, if we want to, we can find our way back to the one we love.

Sam and Hadley West are stunned to learn their beloved adult son Paul died in a plane crash in a remote part of the Alaskan Arctic wilderness. Instead of helping each other through the grief process, the Wests go their separate ways, each coping alone. As they file for divorce, Sam feels a deep need to visit the exact spot where Paul died; while Hadley runs away to a Maine barrier island turning to painting for catharsis. Thousands of miles apart, they exchange letters telling the other what they could not explain in person. Each looks back at their long marriage with fondness and love. Sam is nearing the end of his trek, but the most arduous journey begins as he uses a dog sled to go from the last outpost Laika Star to the crash site. Hadley believes her Sam deserted her on a fool's errand until the letters keep on coming explaining his obsession while she responds explaining her obsession. Soap operish as at times too overly emotional, readers will still relish this engaging look at grieving the loss of a son. Interestingly the tale works because the lead couple comes across as shallow with Sam only thinking of himself and Hadley angry and acrimonious. Over the course of the letters, readers understand what distress and agony can do to caring loving people as grief is a singular journey of the mind and heart. Harriet Klausner