The Lost Letters of Aisling: A Novel

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars | 23,413 ratings

Price: 2.49

Last update: 01-31-2025


About this item

A woman faces the past she fled in a heart-stirring novel about unforgettable love and indomitable courage by the Amazon Charts bestselling author of The Lighthouse Keeper.

Rainey’s grandmother makes a startling request: Take me home. To Ireland, the country she fled post–World War II. Though they’re inseparably close, Rainey knows few of her grandmother’s secrets. Until they arrive at Aisling—the majestic estate on the southern coast of Ireland where her grandmother was raised—and Rainey discovers a collection of seventy-year-old letters in a trunk.

Dublin, 1945. The Germans surrender, celebrants crowd the streets, and fourteen-year-old Evie meets her best friend, the spirited Harding McGovern. Years on, they are more like sisters when rumors begin that Harding works in the black market trade—a source of wealth that could give her a dream life in America but could also cause great danger. Evie is uncertain of the truth but will stand by Harding, whatever the cost.

As Rainey uses the letters to reunite her grandmother with the past, what unfolds is a never-forgotten story of family, friendship, and love, and the healing that comes from letting go of secrets.


From the Publisher

A woman's legacy of love, secrets, and courage that spans decades.

Top reviews from the United States

  • amazonaholic
    5.0 out of 5 stars A Beautiful tale of friendship and love
    Reviewed in the United States on December 31, 2024
    This is an easy read that flips between history and present day. It is a beautiful story written in the way such that you can picture the characters and the backdrop of Ireland.
  • Hannah C
    4.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful story
    Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2024
    This book switches between modern time and Ireland in the 1940s. It tells the story of a grandmother in current time as well as the unexpected stories and heartbreaks of her past. Near the end of her life, she returns to Ireland with her granddaughter. Her granddaughter’s trip is not what she expected it to be as she uncovers her grandmothers rough past and falls for a foreign man.

    I was really drawn into this story quickly. I loved that it involved romance, family, love, and tragedy. I appreciate that it was a clean book. No cursing or explicit content.
  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful story, I can picture the setting throughout the book
    Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2025
    This story was beautiful and bittersweet at the same time. I also enjoyed that it was set in Ireland during WWII (The Emergency). My parents were young children during this time. It was interesting to read about it. This book is beautifully written as well. I felt like I was a part of the story.
  • Cheryl Harris
    5.0 out of 5 stars Page turner story you will love
    Reviewed in the United States on July 11, 2024
    This is the first book I've read by Cynthia Ellingsen although I have several others of hers on my list to read. This is an excellent story and it pulled me in from the beginning. I wanted to keep reading til the end. It is a dual timeline told through the eyes of Rainey and her grandmother, Evie. Evie's past held many secrets that she never shared with her family.

    Rainey sets out on a journey to Ireland with her grandmother, Evie, whose wish is to return to her homeland to confront her past. During Evie's teen years she becomes best friends with Harding. Rumors begin to circulate that Harding is involved in the black market. Harding has a desire to flee to America and this would be a financial source to get her there. Evie doesn't want to believe her best friend is involved in this type of operation.

    Rainey's grandmother has been ill and she is determined to find these missing letters. They arrive at Aisling, a grand estate where her grandmother grew up. It has now been converted into a bed and breakfast. Rainey and her mom never knew Evie had such a grand lifestyle in Ireland. Rainey discovers the collection of very old letters written by Evie. She uses these letters to connect Evie to her past and also to reveal secrets that have impacted her family over the generations.

    How did Evie end up living in America? What happened to Harding? How did all of this affect Evie's family? What has caused Evie so much pain over the years? The story was about love, redemption, pain, loss, and forgiveness. I highly recommend this book to read! I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
  • Adam
    4.0 out of 5 stars Echoes of Ireland: Unveiling Secrets in 'The Lost Letters of Aisling'"
    Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2024
    Review:
    "Cynthia Ellingsen's 'The Lost Letters of Aisling' is an enthralling tale intertwining two eras: present-day and post-World War II Dublin. Following Rainey's transformative journey with her grandmother, Evie, back to their roots in Ireland, the narrative unravels a poignant story concealed within a trove of hidden letters. Ellingsen's eloquent prose transports readers to the lush landscapes of the Emerald Isle, vividly capturing both its beauty and the complexities of post-war life. Through richly drawn characters and intricate relationships, Rainey embarks on a quest that unveils not only Evie's enigmatic past but also illuminates her own family's history, creating an unforgettable narrative tapestry.

    Released as an Amazon First Reads selection on march 1, 2024, 'The Lost Letters of Aisling' promises readers a captivating exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of family secrets."
  • Britney P
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love
    Reviewed in the United States on September 4, 2024
    I love this story so much! The descriptions of the surroundings, the past, the present, and the characters all drew me in. The more I read, the less I wanted to put this book down.

    There is so much love for family, friends, and even strangers throughout this story. Also, there is a lot of heartache and closure. The relationships built are strong and true, even if there weren't always truths spoken. History isn't always what it seems, and sometimes we feel we may have to run from the past. Those who truly love you will stand by your side through it all and not judge. This story brings love full circle.
  • Zakiya
    3.0 out of 5 stars It was interesting enough
    Reviewed in the United States on October 19, 2024
    I almost felt as though I was reading a Hallmark movie. I enjoyed Rainey and Grady's storyline; I feel like there was heat and passion between the two of them. He had an interesting storyline. However, her friendship and conflict with Tia bored the heck out of me. I also enjoyed Evie and Sullivan, he was an absolute sweetheart and I wanted more for them. The setting was great, I could picture Aisling and the countryside in my mind as I read.

    “Harding McGovern” is the true villain of this novel and it drove me crazy how loyal and devoted Evie was to her. In hindsight, she hardly knew the girl. Harding was extremely selfish and unlikeable. Evie was far too so forgiving; Harding practically ruined her life, and everyone saw it but her. Perhaps if we were able to experience more of their friendship building, I would understand such a deep loyalty. Harding was a true narcissist and was constantly guilt-tripping Evie and forcing her into terrible situations. She was not her friend. This was part of the story I simply found unbelievable. What person risks their life for a “friend” they hardly know?

    Overall, the story was interesting enough. I would have loved to learn more about her trip to America, the ending was abrupt.

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