The Days I Loved You Most by Amy Neff
★★★★★

This is a book that I will always remember and think about. It’s so beautifully written and is a story that will forever be timeless. Evelyn and Joseph’s story has completely captured my heart and left me sobbing by the end.

This book is going to give you all the emotions. It has heavy topics and is real and raw and beautiful — just like life. 🤍

Evelyn and Joseph are childhood sweethearts, falling in love in the summer of 1941 on the New England shores where they were raised. Now, sixty years later and whole lot of life and loss in between, they gather their three grown children to share the heartbreaking news. Evelyn has Parkinson’s disease that is progressing rapidly, and Joseph cannot live without her. In one year’s time, they will both end their lives on their own terms. This book takes you through a journey of their high’s and low’s — from the beginning of their love story, to the present.

I cannot wait for this book to be released and I will forever recommend it. It truly makes you think about what really matters in life and to love the people around you, through the hard times and the happy times.

The Days I Loved You Most will be released on July 30th.

Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this heartwarming ARC. Thank you @amyneffauthor for writing such a beautiful story. 🩷

Beautiful love story that spans from World World ll past 9/11. I loved it! It is emotional, real, and heartbreaking. I loved the dual timelines. If you enjoyed The Notebook, you will love it! This would also be a great book club pick!

Thank you for my copy, Netgalley!

I was ready to get lost in a book that would take me away from my own problems and transport me. That was exactly what this book did. I am not a huge romance reader - and I thought this one is more contemporary fiction although there is a huge romance aspect.

Two people who share a childhood as neighbors, realize they love each other in their teens. They grew up as a pack of 3 - Evelyn, Joseph and Evelyn’s brother (Joseph’s best friend). Evelyn and Joseph come precariously close to turning their backs on one another - but one of them is determined not to let that happen. This story moves between a current time frame and visits past moments in the couple’s lives. The ups and downs, the almost wasn’t and the in-between years raising their family. Now one of them is sick and makes a drastic decision about his/her future. Their children are devastated by the news and re-engage with the family in order to fill one last year with as much as they can.

This story would make for such great book-club discussion. Many of the choices made in this book can be looked at in 2 or more ways. Which is right? Who gets to decide? There was one situation early on that I really struggled with. Misplaced blame that was never really healed in my book. But that aside, this book moved at a great pace and kept me engaged throughout. This feels like it is advertised as the love story to top all love stories - but I don’t think it’s that. I think it is an excellent exploration of the work it takes to make a marriage and a family work. The sacrifices, the potentially unmet dreams, the joys and the selfless devotion needed to succeed.

Definitely recommend. thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC to read and review. Pub date: 7.30.24

Evelyn and Joe are married 60 years when Evelyn gets a fatal diagnosis. Joe decides he can’t live without her so he decides he will die when she does. They tell their children this decision and of course the kids are devastated. There are multiple view points and going back in time that I found myself not enjoying. It actually took me until 50% just to start to like it but then realized I didn’t care for the story or the characters at all. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release but it didn’t do much for me. To be published July 30, 2024.

For fans of The Notebook, Me Before You, and This Is Us, The Days I Loved You Most is a poignant debut novel exploring themes of love, death, illness, grief, and what makes a good life. It’s slow-paced and very heavy but also poetic and beautiful. The writing style won’t be for everyone as it is full of intentional sentence fragments and run-ons; I found it to be a bit choppy and hard to understand at times. But if you enjoy emotional and character-driven books, this one could be for you.

Wow. This book.

What an absolutely stunning, beautiful, poignant story of a marriage and a family.

While in some ways, Evelyn and Joseph have the fairytale romance so many of us dream of, in other ways, their relationship is so REAL. Their relationship has plenty of joy and bliss, but it also has hardship, difficulties, and trials. I love books like this that just feel so authentic that you almost feel as if you know the characters personally.

The author did such a beautiful job that I could fully picture the scenes and locations in the book, but it was done in such a quiet, fluid way, that I didn't even realize she was painting such a clear picture.

I will say that when I started the book, I expected a certain plotline through to the end, but it ended up being something so different from what I was expecting. What I got was SO MUCH BETTER. I loved the way the book would shift from present day back to earlier periods in their relationship. I appreciated that we got a few chapters to see things from the viewpoints of their children, but that the bulk of the book was told from Evelyn and Joseph's viewpoints.

There were a few times when I felt frustrated with Evelyn, that maybe she was a bit selfish. But I never found her unlikable, and I think that "selfishness" only made her more real (and if I'm being honest, I've always considered myself a bit selfish, so if anything, I see myself in her). I think she was a really good representation of what so many women feel once they become a wife and a mother and lose a bit of themselves in the process.

If you liked The Notebook or the TV show This is Us, I think you are going to adore this book as much as I did. It actually reminded me quite a bit of This is Us, and I've always thought that show did such a beautiful job of telling the story of a family. This book is much the same.

I average reading about 100 books per year, and it took me until now (mid-July) to find my first 5-star fictional book of 2024. Even though most of my year was spent reading average and mediocre books, it was still entirely worth the wait for a gem of this magnitude. I absolutely ADORED this book.

Thank you to Amy Neff for writing this book, and thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing / Park Row and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.

This story was great in concept but a little too ambitious in execution. At times, it was hard to follow and keep track of the characters with one major issue after another and the switching timelines. Given this a debut, I would be interested to see how Neff refines her writing in future books.

This was a love story that looked at all the aspects of love, not just the good and shiny parts that most others see. The book had some hard topics in it: euthanasia, suicide pacts, terminal illness, infidelity to name a few - but it was able to showcase characters that were nuanced and well developed deal with these issues in ways that felt realistic to me. I could see the story play out in my mind like a movie or TV series with all the flashbacks to the start of the romance to important stages of their relationship throughout the years. I was happy with the ending as written.

'I don't allow myself to look at her, to calculate all the ways she has already changed that I somehow missed.'

'I loved him as long as I can remember. Probably because he was nothing like me, nothing like Tommy - all noise and bravado and jokes. Joseph was a stone rubbed smooth by the crashing of our waves, a calming pebble you pocket and carry.'

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.

Oh my god I absolutely loved this book, it was so sweet and emotional and heartbreaking and overall just so beautiful. The whole concept is so sad but while reading I surprisingly didnt cry, I felt like it was more beautiful and heartwarming reading about the love the main characters have for each other and their children, the whole family is just so loving to each other which I loved seeing. but it was very sad throughout the whole thing because we know as readers that they will die in the end, but in the back of my mind there was also the big question of - will they actually go through with it?

Of course it was also very sad because of the whole concept but the story was very raw and realistic, we saw two timelines - the now (the year before they plan to die) and their whole lives together and we watch them as a family go through a lot of different things together and its realistic things, throughout their relationship and as a family and in society.

It really feels like this was written to be a movie, I would love to see an adaptation! I also have to say I loooove the ending. Love this book overall so much, easy 5/5 please read it!

Modern day The Notebook but without the Jesus undertones! This book was emotional and beautiful. I loved how we really got to see the ins and outs of Evelyn and Joseph's marriage from start to finish.

Are you a fan of moving, complex novels? If so, The Days I loved You Most should be at the top of your reading list. Beautiful story.

The Days I Loved You Most by Amy Neff is a deeply moving exploration of love, sacrifice, and the passage of time. The story centers around Evelyn and Joseph, a couple who, after more than sixty years together, make the heart-wrenching decision to end their lives following Evelyn's diagnosis with a terminal illness. They share this decision with their three grown children, setting the stage for a poignant journey through their shared past.

Set against the evocative backdrop of New England, the novel skillfully alternates between the present and the past, tracing Evelyn and Joseph's love story from their first meeting in the summer of 1941 through decades of joys and sorrows. The couple's relationship is portrayed with a touching authenticity, highlighting both the enduring strength of their bond and the personal sacrifices they have made for each other.

One of the novel's strengths is its rich character development. Evelyn is a resilient and compassionate woman, whose love for Joseph and her family shines through despite her deteriorating health. Joseph, on the other hand, is depicted as a devoted husband who is willing to do anything to honor Evelyn's wishes, even if it means facing the end of their lives together.

The children—each dealing with their own issues—must come to terms with their parents' decision. Their varied reactions add depth to the narrative, showcasing different facets of love, grief, and acceptance. The eldest, Hannah, struggles with her need to control and protect; middle child David is the voice of reason trying to find a middle ground; and the youngest, Rachel, grapples with the emotional turmoil of potentially losing her parents.

Amy Neff’s writing is beautifully evocative, capturing the essence of a life lived fully and the bittersweet nature of facing its end. The novel's setting, spanning significant historical events from World War II to 9/11, provides a rich backdrop that enhances the emotional weight of the story.

The climax is a heartbreaking yet profoundly affirming testament to the couple's love and their desire to leave this world on their own terms. The ending, though deeply sad, is also filled with a sense of peace and closure, offering a powerful commentary on the nature of love and the legacies we leave behind.

The Days I Loved You Most is an unforgettable novel that will resonate with anyone who has experienced deep love and loss. It’s a beautifully crafted story that explores the profound connections that define our lives, making it a must-read for those who appreciate emotionally rich and character-driven narratives.

Unexpected but intriguing. While this story was sad and heart-wrenching at times, I enjoyed the journey. Fans of The Notebook will like this book. Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy!

The Days I Loved you Most - Amy Neff

My Review:
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pages: 348
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Romance
Tropes: Health Issues, Friends To Lovers, Multiple POV, Suicide

This book is heart wrenching but phenomenal and a must read. Evelyn is diagnosed with a life ending illness. Joseph cannot face life without her. They make a pack to live life to the fullest for one year. And on this date one year from now they will together traverse to the other side. They call their three grown children to a family meeting and announce their plans. This begins their journey.

They met as youths and have been together ever since. They have faced nothing without the other by their side helping each other through the most difficult times in their lives.

Bring lots of Kleenex along for their journey. This is a story of deep love and passion though not always smooth sailing love perseveres. Evelyn’s deepest gift to Joseph is given after her death.

Read this book to learn their story and the outcome of their final plan.

Thanks to NetGalley, The Author, & Harlequin Trade
Publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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loved this romance and her mom wants her to date this guy she has these amazing friends who are all dealing with different relationship issues . loved that she found her way in the job and found love

An absolutely incredible debut novel! This one will tear your heart apart and put it back together several times through the journey, but it is so worth it! So make sure you have tissues!

What to generally expect:
⭐ Intertwined Story Lines
⭐ Different POVs of the two main characters
⭐ Past and Present story telling
⭐ Topics of Assisted Suicide, PTSD, Vietnam War, loss of parents and grieving
⭐ An overarching story of family + love
⭐ Brothers best friend romance underlying story

This story is woven in such a beautiful & cinematic way. I could see this story unfolding on the screen. It reminded me strongly of the story telling of the Notebook, but a heart breaking story of aging gracefully, finding a way to survive through it, and making plans for when you're not around. Combining the youthful portion of (Evelyn + Joseph) journey from friends to dating, all unfolding around World War II and a journey that tears them apart. Amy gracefully and beautifully unfolds how the two fall in love, but due to stages of life and world events they are torn apart. How the grief of losing loved ones in the war, to having big dreams, the two find themselves living in different cities but still so deeply in love. Eventually finding their ways back together we are given the story of their life together.

Where this story really resonated with me is the story of motherhood, of the identity lost and re-found as our children grow and find their own way in this world. We are given glimpses of their struggle to find contentment in their lives and in their relationship through their 60 years together. The story is raw, emotional, heartfelt and moving. I promise you will shed some tears. You will fall in love with each character, including their children. You'll root for them to find each other and that some how in this crazy world they can be given more time to be together.

This story is well researched, the plot well thought out and leaves no gaps. The story flows easily and from one part of the story to the next. The characters are deeply developed to the point you connect so deeply with them.

Stories like this are rare. Usually leaving gaps, feel rushed, the historical elements missing items or over embellished. This novel does none of that and is a true gem of a debut novel! It left me wanting to read more of what she has to give the world!

Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade for the eARC! It was an absolute honor to get to read this beautiful debut novel.

Synopsis:
"In the summer of 1941, on the New England shores where they were raised, Evelyn and Joseph fell in love. Now, more than sixty years later, with a lifetime between them, they have gathered their three grown children to share the staggering news: she has received a tragic diagnosis, and he cannot live without her. So in one year’s time, they will end their lives on their own terms.

As the couple comes to grips with their fate, they retrace their past—the joys and regrets, the laughter and the sorrow—that brought them to this moment. They embark on a journey to live out their greatest dreams and to comfort and connect with each of their children before they're gone. But as their final days draw closer, they must confront the stark reality of what they are about to do, and make peace with the legacy they will leave behind for their family.

Spanning the twentieth century from World War II to 9/11 and beyond, The Days I Loved You Most is a timeless tale of unwavering devotion -- a moving tribute to the enduring power of love and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope and beauty to be found."

Read if you like —

🕰️Dual timelines
🌊Coastal atmosphere
💛Childhood friends to lovers
👥Multiple POV

My thoughts —

Timeless. Romantic. Unforgettable. Profound.

This book will make you feel everything. Such a remarkable read about love, grief and life.

Wow wow wow. I am heartbroken and will carry this read in my heart forever. Amy Neff’s stunning debut novel, The Days I Loved You Most, was reminiscent of Nicholas Sparks’ and Kristin Hannah’s work. She poured her soul into this novel and it shows.

This story follows the life and romance of Evelyn and Joseph, from childhood to their golden years. Flashing back and forth leading up to their most recent devastating news and the decision they are about to make, which will change everything.

Such a raw, real, deeply emotional encapsulation of the human experience, the fragility of life and the things we cannot control, as hard as we try. How we must treasure the time we have here, now and with those we love. Because life is a precious gift filled with vast devastations and immense joys.

💌Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

This is for the sad-book readers. The Days I Loved You More will have you hooked from the first chapter and sobbing by the end of the book. Masterfully written and with a absolutely beautiful plot, this book explores the hardships, sacrifices and happiness that comes from spending the rest of your life with the person you love most. The downside i found with this book was the pacing. At certain points it felt too flat and slow and found pushing myself to finish it.

If you are looking for a light hearted love story, this book is not for you. This is the story of a couple that plans to take their lives together due to one having an incurable illness. It is told over their entire lives together from when they first got together to them as an elderly couple.

This story was raw and often sad. While their love story was beautiful, it also was realistic. It wasn’t all happiness and sunshine. They went through realistic issues throughout their relationship and ended up on the other side still together.

While reading, I just felt like this was written to be a movie. The author even states she wanted to write a book that had the same vibes as the notebook & I think that was accomplished. I could absolutely see this adapted into a movie in a style similar to the notebook, but different too.

I really enjoyed this book, but again you need to go into this with the mindset that this deals with hard subject matter that can be depressing. I absolutely loved the ending. It ripped my heart out.

Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Joseph and Evelyn do not remember a world without the other in it. Growing up next door with each other along with Evelyn's brother. This is a story told from multiple points of view alternating between past events in their lives and the current days.

Wow. I really don't know what to stay. Amy Neff has written a story that brings the characters to life in a way few authors can do. She tells a story that is though provoking and will make you exam your own ideas about living and dying.

Readers get your tissues ready. This is a book that will stay with you for some time. I hope that Joseph and Evelyn's story makes it to the big screen.

I think the thing I loved most about this book is the realistic portrayal that Neff gives of a good marriage but one that is not without problems and struggles. Everyone sees Joseph and Evelyn's marriage as one that is what dreams are made of and that might be true but also Joseph and Evelyn both admitted that they struggled but continued to work on their marriage and that a great marriage does not mean a perfect marriage.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I will say that I will now read anything that Amy Neff publishes. The Days I Loved you Most proves she has the skills to hang with the big dogs in the writing world.