Due to the fact that Politano is easily one of my favorite authors, "The Love Note" was one of my most anticipated 2020 releases. When I finally got to reading this interesting story during Christmas break, I was not disappointed nor exactly blown away. "The Love Note" began at a snail's pace, I was honestly worried that I was going to have to rate a Politano book with less than four stars. Although the characters were full of all of Politano's characteristic quirkiness, it took time for the pages to pull me in, as soon as they did, I fell in love. 

Each character was unique and overflowing with their own secret and precious stories. Maisie was, interestingly enough, the first character who I truly enjoyed. Her depth, words, and wisdom made me curious about her. Gabe followed, his quiet strength and deep love for both Willa and Golda made him the type of character that is impossible to dislike. Golda was fascinating, an angry and deeply hurting woman who has given herself over to bitterness. Her transformation was shockingly complete, and simply beautiful.

 Sadly, Willa never stole my heart. I admire her passion for the work she loves and her dedication to her dreams. I simply could not connect to her, and at times she mildly annoyed me. Somehow this did not lower my rating, perhaps simply because I loved many of the other characters deeply. 

When I first read the letter, I must admit to rolling my eyes. Before long, my thoughts changed and I had, what we will call, an "oh wait" moment where I understood Politano's purpose for the letter. Politano's subtle message about love was powerful. No human being can fulfill the human longing for true love, love that lasts forever and never fails or disappoints us, only God's love is unfailing and completely fulfilling. Seeing Willa's quest for love begin at Maisie's urging and end with the realization that the love she was searching for was God's all consuming love, was beautiful. 

The setting, Crestwicke, was perfect. Exactly as it sounds, the chilly, old manor is set by the ocean and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The manor grieved with its inhabitants and responded to the loss of love and deep sadness. The ruins were captivating and their broken beauty was simply lovely. Creswicke is easily one of my favorite fictional manors. 

Although it took time for me to fall in love with this story, it has imprinted itself on my heart with its important reminder that God's love must be my life's foundation. I eagerly look forward to re-reading this story. 

"The whole thing left me confused and not a little unsure of myself. I'd stepped into the middle of a novel--no a chapter--and was attempting to fumble through it. Yet I wanted the rest of the story." - Joanna D. Politano