Dear Eliza

Ugh, losing a parent is so hard, and it's something I worry about often. I think I'll definitely come back to this book when the inevitable happens, but it had me in tears even though I haven't had this experience.

Eliza Levinger just lost her dad, and lost her mom 10 years earlier. Her aunt gives her a letter helping Eliza navigate the loss of her parents. I thought it showed a beautiful portrayal of grief and how everyone handles it differently; reminding us there is no right way to do so. This could easily be a book club pick, but just be extra sensitive to the members in your book club and whether or not they've lost a loved one. It might not be the right timing to read this book.

Thank you to netgalley, the author and publisher for this arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein tells the story of Eliza Levinger, who receives a letter from her mother 10 years after her death and days after the death of her father. The story follows Eliza as she processes her grief and the information in the letter.

This was a good novel that I read quickly. The characters are well-written and the story moves at a good pace. It is a good look at how secrets, loss, and grief are handled by the characters.


Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this book.

Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein is a thought-provoking novel that left me thinking about the characters for days after I finished the novel.

Eliza's father dies and her maternal aunt gives her a letter from her long-dead mother that she was to give to Eliza only after her father's death. The information contained in the letter changes Eliza's life forever and the way that she views the world and her relationships.

Having lost both parents ten years apart, it is incredibly easy for me to commiserate with Eliza as she deals with grief, the shock of the letter, and trying to fight her way through hurt, anger, and sadness. Eliza's relationship with her brother and his wife was very relatable as well. Watching Eliza struggle with what she wants career-wise and romantic relationship-wise was incredibly interesting. I won't reveal any spoilers, but I was rooting for our main love interest from their first encounter in this book.

I've not read Ms. Stein's other works, but I plan on rectifying that immediately! If you're looking for a thoughtful, well-plotted book with likable and not-so-likable characters, this one is for you.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this book in consideration of an honest opinion

Dear Eliza examines how family ties unravel when the loss of a parent exposes a shocking secret. Fresh, modern and relatable, this is a perfectly-paced exploration of loss, love and learning how to carry on when your world is turned upside down. Brimming with just the right mix of humor and heart, Dear Eliza is sure to be a book club favorite.

"Dear Eliza" is a poignant and emotionally gripping novel that explores the complexities of loss, family dynamics, and the unexpected twists life throws our way. Ten years after the devastating loss of her mother to cancer, Eliza Levinger's carefully constructed life is shattered once again when she receives a mysterious letter from her deceased mother.

The narrative unfolds with a perfect blend of heart-wrenching moments and unexpected revelations. Eliza's journey is raw and authentic, as she navigates through the turmoil brought on by the letter, which unravels long-held secrets and challenges her relationships with her family and friends.

The characters are richly developed, each with their own struggles and flaws, making them relatable and complelling. Eliza's internal conflict, torn between her desire for independence and her need for connection, is palpable, drawing readers into her world with empathy and understanding.

The dynamics between Eliza and her brother, stepmother, and best friend are intricately woven, showcasing the complexities of familial bonds and the impact of secrets on relationships. As Eliza grapples with the fallout of the letter, her journey of self-discovery is both heartbreaking and uplifting as she learns to confront her past and embrace the possibility of a new beginning.

One of the most captivating aspects of the novel is the slow-burn romance between Eliza and Josh, her brother's best friend and her high school crush. Their chemistry is palpable, adding an extra layer of tension and emotion to the story. Their relationship unfolds organically, filled with moments of vulnerability and growth, ultimately offering hope and healing for both characters.

Overall, "Dear Eliza" is a beautifully written tale of love, loss, and resilience. With its interesting characters, heartfelt storytelling, and unexpected twists, it's a must-read for anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction with depth and emotion.

I just finished Dear Eliza and I'm going to miss these characters!

This novel skillfully examines how family ties unravel when the loss of a parent exposes a shocking secret that sends a young woman reeling. Timely and relatable, Dear Eliza is a perfectly-paced exploration of loss, love, and learning how to carry on when your world is turned upside down.

If I'd had more time, I'd have read it straight through. If you loved Andrea Stein's Typecast, a character makes a fun cameo appearance in this story.

Brimming with just the right mix of humor and heart, Dear Eliza is sure to be a book club favorite. Definitely lots to think about and discuss!

This is lovely novel, about death and rebirth. Eliza who lost her beloved mother at 16 is coping with the death of her semi-estranged father when she receives a letter penned by her dead mother that reveals a long held secret. Eliza has to examine everything she felt about her mother, brother and father. As she searches for a new identity, she is supported by her brother’s longtime best friend, Josh. So, there is a lot that is obvious and predictable, it’s so engaging that as a reader, I didn’t mind.

I must say that I really felt the author missed the DNA boat. I can’t believe that a situation this complex, involving paternity and inheritance wouldn’t have had DNA tests thrown into the mix.

Eliza is a lovely, well described heroine, emblematic of millennials. She is surrounded by a very likable supporting group. Stein has created a charming novel which totally enchanted me as a reader.

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to review this delightful, heart tugging novel.