My Letters To Conceição

Introspective introvert recounts his experiences while traveling during his 20’s to deceased first love in series of letters.

First person narrator through letters works for most of this story. The writing felt personal and was decent (read as letter/journal writing, some repetition and cliches that you’d expect in letters). Vasco is the most defined character. The rest are sketched. There’s no dialogue. However, Vasco feels personable and I suspect I could pick him out in a line-up based on body posture and facial expression. He has a naïveté, despite his worldly wandering, that makes him like-able and sympathetic. This is another reason the epistolary structure works; it allows for some blank spots we can remain curious about. I prefer books that don’t fill everything in, that allow for some of my own conjecture and imaginings.

It has mostly medium pacing and leans toward the quiet side. Good for slow trains, quiet vacations, times of introversion. Would be less effective if read with noise or visual distractions present. It allows for natural breaks between letters, but could also be read in a day. The further I read, the more I liked it and wanted to find out how it all turns out. Does he have any existential epiphanies? Does he meet the old mystical lady again? Does he find peace with himself? The drama within is quiet. I became impatient about 2/3rds in wondering if anything of significance was going to occur prior to the end. Well, be patient.

Nicely done. I was pleasantly surprised by this. It is well written, and even though there isn't much of a plot, it kept me engaged. Recommended for literary fiction fans.

Thanks very much for the free ARC for review!!

I loved this book. I was mesmerized and touched by the story in the book which is narrated in the form of letters from Vasco to his lost love, Conceição. Through these letters, Vasco lets her know his innermost thoughts and emotions. He also describes how her love changed him and impacted his life. As I was reading Vasco's words, I felt like I was reading a true portrayal of love, something I had never experienced before, considering the fact that I read so many books.

I could feel the depth of love, pain and longing that Vasco endured. His visions of love really touched my soul. The mystical elements in the story were so beautifully written that I couldn't help but stay glued to my kindle, wanting to read more and more and learn more about Vasco's love.

If true love was ever depicted in a book, then this is the book that has perfectly captured the essence, beauty and heartbreak that comes with love.

Thank you to Netgally, the author and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.