The Correspondent, by Virginia Evans… Click here for her website.

I don’t recall ever reading a book written completely through handwritten letters and emails. I learned that this type of book is called an epistolary novel. 

The protagonist, Sybil VanAntwerp (what a name!), is a woman in her 70s who lives independently in Annapolis, Maryland, during the latter part of her life. She is a spunky retired law clerk and lawyer who still has much to experience and accomplish. This book will quickly immerse you in Sybil’s accomplished and quirky past and present.

Should you read it?….YES!

The story is sweet and full of emotion. You’ll get the chance to know Sybil at her best and worst. The book is warm and amusing. You’ll be mad at her, and then you’ll be cheering her on. 

If you like short chapters, you can comfortably set the book down with ease between letters. When I stepped away, I found myself wanting to get back to the story. 

Just a couple of fun facts from the author, Virginia Evans…

The Correspondent was her debut novel, and she wrote most of it inside her closet during the early hours of the morning in her townhouse..lol

She earned her Master’s degree in creative writing at Trinity College in Ireland. I loved that she worked hard to perfect each character in this book, ensuring they had distinct perspectives and voices. She went through numerous rounds of editing to perfect each character. It’s noticeable in her writing. 

If you decide to pick it up, I hope you like it! Remember..books are very subjective!