Reviews

With Love from London by Sarah Jio

einhornflausch's review against another edition

hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.25

For me, it was a bit too kitschy, and a lot of the story would not have existed if there was better communication from everyone involved. I also didn't enjoy that some women could do no wrong, while other women existed wrongly in the eyes of the main character. Also, has a human ever forgotten, that they were wearing a facemask (the relaxing, spa- kind)?? Because that happens and it annoyed me. 

It's a feel good book that made me feel good sometimes, and sometimes it annoyed me. 
Would have loved if Percy had more screentime. 

a_ab's review

slow-paced

1.5

This was some drippingly sappy and mind-numbingly silly drivel - disgustingly so. To be frank, I lost interest in Eloise's plotline around the third chapter of her story and only read Valentine's from then onwards.
But I gathered enough of it from the modern day references to not feel like I lost much. 

The whole book feels very fake. From the London references, which, with all of the inappropriately used Americanisms, seem like half-hearted window dressing, to the characters and their relationships - instant friendships, elaborate scavenger hunt setups - where an honest straightforward conversation would've accomplished a lot more, and book-opinion-based "soulmates" romances - exactly as silly and stupid as that sounds.

The book isn't awful, it is just bad in a very mediocre way.

tabernethy's review

5.0

Another great book by Sarah Jio! I love her characters and her gift for weaving wonderfully layered stories. Truly one of my favorite authors and this did not disappoint! Beautiful story, memorable characters!

taylakaye's review

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

bulletsgirl's review against another edition

medium-paced

4.5

ashleyhosmer's review

reflective medium-paced

• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

4.0

mamma_calls_me_francis's review

5.0

This was absolutely beautiful. Dual POV, mother and daughter, different decades. You learn about their relationship and their history as you read the book. The growth that Valentina experiences throughout this book was amazing to experience. Love, loss, and self discovery. Eloise does the best she can with what she has. So many quotable passages that I LOVE. This touched my heart and I’m so happy I picked it off the shelf.

Special thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group- Ballantine for this digital ARC.

mmbay's review against another edition

4.0

Light and a little bit predictable, but sweet and satisfying.

kaymorgan's review

5.0

This was such a comfy cozy read. Set in Primrose Hill, London the story of mother and daughter comes together over the course of the novel. It’s a beautiful rendition of forgiveness, finding love, and getting to know your own family. I really want to travel back to England now and cuddle up in the bookstore that this book is set in. I would highly recommended this sweet cozy read.

jessicat10's review

5.0

Wow! What a beautiful story. This book alternates between the mother's point of view in the past, and the daughters life currently. We get to experience both of their love stories and the love they have for each other. It's happy and sad and heartwarming. I loved every second of it. The story also centers itself around a love of books and a bookstore. If you like books about books check it out!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read a digital arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.