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Love for Two Lifetimes
Clearing out after her mother's tragic death, Izzy finds twenty years of unsent love letters that leave her questioning who she is and what her mother sacrificed to become a world-class pianist. Following a trail of clues to Halford Hall in England, Izzy steps into a world of royalty in search of her father and meets a young aristocrat who's as troubled as he is fascinating. Recognizing the brokenness in each other, the two become inseparable--only to discover too late that they may be brother and sister.
Thrown together on a journey of discovery that spans two lifetimes and takes them from a grand estate in the Cotswolds to a hospital bedside in India and ultimately to the Taj Mahal, Malcolm and Izzy try not to fall in love. But some things are impossible.
And some sacrifices are inevitable.
Uplifting, funny, tragic, and unforgettably romantic, Love for Two Lifetimes is a tale of two generations of love, a lifetime of friendship, a history of sacrifice, and one last, heartbreaking and hopeful choice revealed in prose, texts, and love letters. If you enjoy the romance of the royal weddings or any story by Nicholas Sparks, Love for Two Lifetimes will have you turning pages late into the night.
Thrown together on a journey of discovery that spans two lifetimes and takes them from a grand estate in the Cotswolds to a hospital bedside in India and ultimately to the Taj Mahal, Malcolm and Izzy try not to fall in love. But some things are impossible.
And some sacrifices are inevitable.
Uplifting, funny, tragic, and unforgettably romantic, Love for Two Lifetimes is a tale of two generations of love, a lifetime of friendship, a history of sacrifice, and one last, heartbreaking and hopeful choice revealed in prose, texts, and love letters. If you enjoy the romance of the royal weddings or any story by Nicholas Sparks, Love for Two Lifetimes will have you turning pages late into the night.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2018
179 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Martina Boone
13 books2,010 followersMartina Boone is the award-winning author of romantic fiction set in magical places. Her latest book is a slow-burn to hot chemistry with a bit of spice romantic fantasy available November 11, 2025. THE CROWN OF MOONLIGHT is ACOTAR meets OUTLANDER when a Highland woman uses illicit magic to heal a wounded fae Rider who could doom her clan--or save her world.
Martina's other books include the southern gothic Heirs of Watson Island series for young adults, starting with COMPULSION, the Celtic Legends Collection of novels set in Scotland, Cornwall, Ireland, and Wales, beginning with LAKE OF DESTINY, and the crossover contemporary LOVE FOR TWO LIFETIMES. She’s passionate about improving lives through literacy and the love of books.
She lives with her husband, Shetland Sheepdog Phinney, and an Izzy cat who loves to edit Martina's work. When she isn’t writing, she loves travel, wildlife, wildflower meadows, horses, skiing, chocolate-flavored tea, Nutella, and men in kilts. (Not necessarily in that order.)
Martina's other books include the southern gothic Heirs of Watson Island series for young adults, starting with COMPULSION, the Celtic Legends Collection of novels set in Scotland, Cornwall, Ireland, and Wales, beginning with LAKE OF DESTINY, and the crossover contemporary LOVE FOR TWO LIFETIMES. She’s passionate about improving lives through literacy and the love of books.
She lives with her husband, Shetland Sheepdog Phinney, and an Izzy cat who loves to edit Martina's work. When she isn’t writing, she loves travel, wildlife, wildflower meadows, horses, skiing, chocolate-flavored tea, Nutella, and men in kilts. (Not necessarily in that order.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 6, 2018
Everything was going great for Izzy. She had her bestie, Elli, their future plans, and an acceptance letter from her #1 college choice. But everything was taken from her the day she lost her mom in a car accident. While packing up her mother's things, she stumbles upon a box of letters written by her mother, but never sent. This discovery sets her on a search for answers from the one big love of her mother's life.
As a fan of The Heirs of Watson Island series, I was really excited to see that Boone was releasing a new book, and it was in my favorite genre nonetheless. This one spoke to the romance lover in me, and there were many, many things for me to love.
• The relationship between Izzy and her mother was one to envy. Though we only got a short peek into their present time life together, Boone gifted us with a bunch of flashbacks, which clearly showed the strength of this mother-daughter bond.
• Izzy and Elli were such close friends, they were practically sisters. The fact that they go way back to the hospital nursery together was a testament to how the universe thought they belonged to each other. They were so close, Elli became like that little voice in Izzy head, that gave her advice in some sticky situations.
• Malcolm was one of the soft boys that I love. Izzy may have been saying in jest, but I think he really was a sort of Prince Charming. His love of history and his ancestral home scored him many points in my book, and I was elated when he finally started to untangle some of his complicated feelings.
• Boone took us on a beautiful and scenic trip from Virginia to the English Countryside to India. Her love for India was quite obvious in the care she took to bring us there via the sights, the sounds, the smells, and the tastes of the region.
I have one complaint, which is about -- you guessed it, the ending. Though it ended with this very beautiful reflection, I still have some questions. I feel like I am always asking for an epilogue, but if you read this book, you would understand why I really, really wanted one. Or a sequel? Something, because, like I said, I have a few unanswered questions.
Overall: This was a really lovely story of what it means to love, the sacrifices we make for those we love, and how love can transcend it all. It was beautifully written and packed with a lot of emotion.
As a fan of The Heirs of Watson Island series, I was really excited to see that Boone was releasing a new book, and it was in my favorite genre nonetheless. This one spoke to the romance lover in me, and there were many, many things for me to love.
• The relationship between Izzy and her mother was one to envy. Though we only got a short peek into their present time life together, Boone gifted us with a bunch of flashbacks, which clearly showed the strength of this mother-daughter bond.
• Izzy and Elli were such close friends, they were practically sisters. The fact that they go way back to the hospital nursery together was a testament to how the universe thought they belonged to each other. They were so close, Elli became like that little voice in Izzy head, that gave her advice in some sticky situations.
• Malcolm was one of the soft boys that I love. Izzy may have been saying in jest, but I think he really was a sort of Prince Charming. His love of history and his ancestral home scored him many points in my book, and I was elated when he finally started to untangle some of his complicated feelings.
• Boone took us on a beautiful and scenic trip from Virginia to the English Countryside to India. Her love for India was quite obvious in the care she took to bring us there via the sights, the sounds, the smells, and the tastes of the region.
I have one complaint, which is about -- you guessed it, the ending. Though it ended with this very beautiful reflection, I still have some questions. I feel like I am always asking for an epilogue, but if you read this book, you would understand why I really, really wanted one. Or a sequel? Something, because, like I said, I have a few unanswered questions.
Overall: This was a really lovely story of what it means to love, the sacrifices we make for those we love, and how love can transcend it all. It was beautifully written and packed with a lot of emotion.
September 3, 2018
Love for Two Lifetimes follows two generations of love in all of of its intinations - romantic love, familial love, and the love between friends. With themes of sacrifice, duty, and honor, Love for Two Lifetimes is a beautifully written, poignant, romantic, and heartwarming story. I loved so much about this book. The characters, the setting, the lyrical prose, it is not to be missed!
September 25, 2018
LOVE FOR TWO LIFETIMES IS OUT NOW!
Love for Two Lifetimes is my first time reading Martina but now I feel compelled to go back and read her entire catalog!
When Izzy suddenly and unexpectedly loses her mother to a car accident, her world comes crashing in on her. It’s always been Izzy and mom, their lives so intertwined and relationship so close. So imagine Izzy’s surprise when she finds a hidden box of unsent love letters written from her mom to a mysterious man overseas. Is this her father? How could her mother harbor these intense feelings all this time and never tell her?
Izzy sets off to seek answers and finds herself amongst English royalty, which I actually enjoyed. When I saw “royalty” I was concerned the story would be a typical royal romance but this book was so so so much more. Instead of being about royalty, family and history are explored. Obligations not to a country or title but to a person’s personal family history. I was hooked.
Love for Two Lifetimes is a story of how messy humans and love are. Even the most well intentioned people and situations can have negative or unexpected outcomes.
Plus, the romance in this story is just so incredible. Loved every minute of it.
PS: Ok, so, companion novel with Elli and Percy, right? Right.
Love for Two Lifetimes is my first time reading Martina but now I feel compelled to go back and read her entire catalog!
When Izzy suddenly and unexpectedly loses her mother to a car accident, her world comes crashing in on her. It’s always been Izzy and mom, their lives so intertwined and relationship so close. So imagine Izzy’s surprise when she finds a hidden box of unsent love letters written from her mom to a mysterious man overseas. Is this her father? How could her mother harbor these intense feelings all this time and never tell her?
Izzy sets off to seek answers and finds herself amongst English royalty, which I actually enjoyed. When I saw “royalty” I was concerned the story would be a typical royal romance but this book was so so so much more. Instead of being about royalty, family and history are explored. Obligations not to a country or title but to a person’s personal family history. I was hooked.
Love for Two Lifetimes is a story of how messy humans and love are. Even the most well intentioned people and situations can have negative or unexpected outcomes.
Plus, the romance in this story is just so incredible. Loved every minute of it.
PS: Ok, so, companion novel with Elli and Percy, right? Right.
September 5, 2018
I received a free copy for an honest review. Tissues.... tissues will be needed. This story is emotionally complex and I feel like it needed to exist. However, I didn't give it the full 5 stars because I feel like no matter how it ended, Izzy got the short end of the stick and that just breaks my heart. Malcolm was a great character and I knew from the start that he was going to be some modern day Mr. Darcy. That boy has had way too much on his shoulders for so long and he needs someone like Izzy just like she needs him. I really hope there's a sequel and that Elli meets Percy because I have a feeling they'd get along swimmingly.
Want to read
November 9, 2018YA Romance fans! Review copies are available for request here: [closed - other review opportunities found here]
September 27, 2018
💔Heartbreaking and life affirming tale of romance over 2 generations 😢💜
👍👍 💕😢💔📝 I really loved this book! The writing is great, the story full of characters with depth and heart. Izzy, the young heroine, deals with a gamut of issues and emotions. Luckily, she has Elli, her life-long BFF to vent and share her secret fears and hopes. Despite her youth she makes mature and empathetic decisions.
Hero Malcolm Halford and his father Ian have years of misunderstandings and resentment behind them. Izzy's sudden appearance changes all of their lives. There's grief, disappointment, illness, sweet reminiscences and heartbreaking regrets, budding romance, all with surprising twists and the slow revelation of secrets. It kept me hooked from beginning to end with a great romantic detour to India and the romantic magnificence of the Taj Mahal.
I am a fan of romances with protagonists that sacrifice and transform for their HEA and this is an excellent example. The ill-fated love story of Ian Halford and Izzy's mother was heartbreaking but the connection between their children beautiful and hopeful. A great read!:-)
👍👍 💕😢💔📝 I really loved this book! The writing is great, the story full of characters with depth and heart. Izzy, the young heroine, deals with a gamut of issues and emotions. Luckily, she has Elli, her life-long BFF to vent and share her secret fears and hopes. Despite her youth she makes mature and empathetic decisions.
Hero Malcolm Halford and his father Ian have years of misunderstandings and resentment behind them. Izzy's sudden appearance changes all of their lives. There's grief, disappointment, illness, sweet reminiscences and heartbreaking regrets, budding romance, all with surprising twists and the slow revelation of secrets. It kept me hooked from beginning to end with a great romantic detour to India and the romantic magnificence of the Taj Mahal.
I am a fan of romances with protagonists that sacrifice and transform for their HEA and this is an excellent example. The ill-fated love story of Ian Halford and Izzy's mother was heartbreaking but the connection between their children beautiful and hopeful. A great read!:-)
January 20, 2019
Love for Two Lifetimes by Martina Boone is a story of love, sacrifices, and loss. After the death of her mother, Isabelle discovers letters her mother has written to a man who Isabelle believes may be her father. The letters leave Isabelle feeling as though she never really knew her mother. She decides to go see this man not only to discover whether he is her father but hoping to discover the woman her mother did not let her know. in the pursuit of doing this she finds a story of deep enduring love and sacrifice. She also discovers a love of her own.
Throughout the course of this story, Ms. Boone fills the pages with beautiful passages. She makes you feel emotions with her characters instead of just reading about them. Her descriptions allow you to see the beautiful locations. She gives us characters we can care about.
Another thing I really like about Martina Boone's books is that in the ones I have read she includes a piece of history. I always find it interesting and it gets me researching for further information on that piece of history.
I very much enjoyed this book and look forward to reading many more books written by Martina Boone.
I received this book as I gift but this review is given voluntarily and the opinions expressed in it are my own.
Throughout the course of this story, Ms. Boone fills the pages with beautiful passages. She makes you feel emotions with her characters instead of just reading about them. Her descriptions allow you to see the beautiful locations. She gives us characters we can care about.
Another thing I really like about Martina Boone's books is that in the ones I have read she includes a piece of history. I always find it interesting and it gets me researching for further information on that piece of history.
I very much enjoyed this book and look forward to reading many more books written by Martina Boone.
I received this book as I gift but this review is given voluntarily and the opinions expressed in it are my own.
October 28, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Love for Two Lifetimes can almost be defined as two love stories in one. One being a star-crossed love that paves the way for new love in a second generation. Full of lyrical prose, as well as book and music references, this story filled nearly all my senses. Angsty, but not overwrought, the story is replete with longing, crushing, and sacrificing heartbreaks. The more I read the more I wondered if there could possibly be any kind of satisfying happily ever after? I longed for it, but could not comprehend the plausibility. Fortunately, I wasn't left wondering. The story wrapped up nicely with a somewhat open ending shaped by the conversations between Izzy and her best friend Elli, as well as Izzy's own reclamations. Overall, a compelling YA/NA novel that will satisfy both the young adult and discerning older adult romance reader.
Love for Two Lifetimes can almost be defined as two love stories in one. One being a star-crossed love that paves the way for new love in a second generation. Full of lyrical prose, as well as book and music references, this story filled nearly all my senses. Angsty, but not overwrought, the story is replete with longing, crushing, and sacrificing heartbreaks. The more I read the more I wondered if there could possibly be any kind of satisfying happily ever after? I longed for it, but could not comprehend the plausibility. Fortunately, I wasn't left wondering. The story wrapped up nicely with a somewhat open ending shaped by the conversations between Izzy and her best friend Elli, as well as Izzy's own reclamations. Overall, a compelling YA/NA novel that will satisfy both the young adult and discerning older adult romance reader.
October 8, 2018
I received this book as a Goodreads Giveaway. The writing verges on lyrical and the author makes the characters sing. I fell in love with each of them for different reasons and felt their heartbreak, their joy, their missed opportunities, their fears, sadness...and on and on. Even the characters who were not physically present or only had cameo roles (e.g. Felicity, Ginny, nurses, etc) impacted the story and weren't merely superfluous filler. I so hope there is a sequel to this book. I need to know more about Izzy and her experiences at Oxford and how that impacts her relationship with Malcolm, and I really need to read about Elli's adventures in England!
October 13, 2018
Like so much in Izzy's life i'm sure that reading this again will bring more to the story. She has a way of seeing something more meaningful in ordinary things, making the world a magical place where I'd actually want to be alive. Beauty. Poetry. Art. Humanity. Love. Boone makes them all believable.
Compassion. Sacrifice. Wonder. So many feelings going thru my being as i couldn't stop reading. And as i've just finished, moments ago, i'm left wondering not if there's another after, a sequel, a book two, but rather how long is an acceptable time to come to terms with my feelings and start this book over again?
Compassion. Sacrifice. Wonder. So many feelings going thru my being as i couldn't stop reading. And as i've just finished, moments ago, i'm left wondering not if there's another after, a sequel, a book two, but rather how long is an acceptable time to come to terms with my feelings and start this book over again?
September 29, 2018
Goodreads Kindle Copy Win
A young woman finds unsent love letters after her mom’s death and discovers another world that she had before her birth. As she reads the letters she wonders about the man and the possibility that he might be her dad since there is no name on her birth certificate.
She decides to pay a visit to this man’s home where she meets his son. There is chemistry between the two but there is the possibility that they are brother and sister. It is a tale of love and sacrifices that will also take you to India and the Taj Mahal.
A young woman finds unsent love letters after her mom’s death and discovers another world that she had before her birth. As she reads the letters she wonders about the man and the possibility that he might be her dad since there is no name on her birth certificate.
She decides to pay a visit to this man’s home where she meets his son. There is chemistry between the two but there is the possibility that they are brother and sister. It is a tale of love and sacrifices that will also take you to India and the Taj Mahal.
August 8, 2023
Simply splendid
I’ve read thousands of novels over the years, but it has been a long, long time since I read anything this magical. The language is sheer poetry, the characters filled with life and acknowledged flaws. The plot is simple yet the reader never knows where it will lead next.
This was a powerful, emotional, engaging journey thru human relationships and fully engaged emotions that I couldn’t bear to put down and couldn’t bear to end. And yet, having finished it, I can scarcely wait to read it again.
Highly recommended.
I’ve read thousands of novels over the years, but it has been a long, long time since I read anything this magical. The language is sheer poetry, the characters filled with life and acknowledged flaws. The plot is simple yet the reader never knows where it will lead next.
This was a powerful, emotional, engaging journey thru human relationships and fully engaged emotions that I couldn’t bear to put down and couldn’t bear to end. And yet, having finished it, I can scarcely wait to read it again.
Highly recommended.
December 6, 2018
Love for two lifetimes is a great book with fascinating plot twists. I read it in only 4 days because I was really curious about the ending! I loved the relationships between the characters the most. Also, I liked the lists in some chapters, they make this book unique. I would definitely read more books from Martina Boone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
August 3, 2020
A Love Story of Time
Cella, Ian, Izzy, and Malcolm, you will love them, cry for them and laugh with them. Every good story needs that one character with perspective, we have Izzy's best friend Elli. We are a very complicated mixture of thoughts, ideas, feelings and the greatest emotion, Love. You will enjoy this story for all the above. But you must read it to find out the end.
Cella, Ian, Izzy, and Malcolm, you will love them, cry for them and laugh with them. Every good story needs that one character with perspective, we have Izzy's best friend Elli. We are a very complicated mixture of thoughts, ideas, feelings and the greatest emotion, Love. You will enjoy this story for all the above. But you must read it to find out the end.
November 11, 2020
I am not good at writing reviews but I'm going to start trying to do that. I really loved this book, I liked her writing style and the book kept me anxious to move through it. The characters are real, flawed and the young ones are so wise beyond their years. Its a good romance book and full of emotions that the characters are feeling. I want to read some of her other books and now!
October 11, 2018
Thank you to Martina Boone and Goodreads.com I won this book in a Giveaway.
Such a unique story with very thought provoking points about the ones we think we know. Add love, adventure, humor and compassion and this story was great !
Such a unique story with very thought provoking points about the ones we think we know. Add love, adventure, humor and compassion and this story was great !
September 27, 2020
Bought by Mistake but Kept Reading
I got this by mistake but found it such a compelling story. Great narration from different perspectives. Had a great deal of trouble putting it down when I had other things I needed to read. Will read more by this author.
I got this by mistake but found it such a compelling story. Great narration from different perspectives. Had a great deal of trouble putting it down when I had other things I needed to read. Will read more by this author.
February 7, 2021
En
At 72 I am no longer a young adult. But a well-written romance that made me laugh and cry made me remember and experience love as if for the first time. I will read it again and buy a copy for my young a jot granddaughter as well.
At 72 I am no longer a young adult. But a well-written romance that made me laugh and cry made me remember and experience love as if for the first time. I will read it again and buy a copy for my young a jot granddaughter as well.
Want to read
March 22, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/22/2020)! 🎁
August 6, 2020
Excellent!!
This is one of the most heart wrenching stories I have ever read! I loved every character and the entire story line!!!
This is one of the most heart wrenching stories I have ever read! I loved every character and the entire story line!!!
October 12, 2020
This book was all that ! Loved it
October 27, 2020
Loved it!
Absolutely loved this book. I laughed and cried and loved the characters. What an interesting story. Would love to read a sequel about Izzy and Malcolm!
Absolutely loved this book. I laughed and cried and loved the characters. What an interesting story. Would love to read a sequel about Izzy and Malcolm!
December 14, 2021
By far one of my favorite books..
September 19, 2018
Love for Two Lifetimes - Heartwarming and delightful; heart breaking and sad; this book runs the gamut of emotions. There are many types of loneliness, loss and love, and this book shares many forms of all of these. Well written, mesmerizing and intriguing, this love story is also about sacrifice for all the right reasons. As always, Ms. Boone has added history as an important character, adding to the richness of the other characters involved. Many experiences and other cultures blend into the fabric and the reader is immersed in the vivid descriptions and emotions. Even with the multitude of tears, there's great joy to be found in the pages. At the end of the book, I found the overview of the story, which I would liked to have read before I began the story. I contacted the author to review her book. 5*
Lake of Destiny #1 - This story has it all: romance, intrigue, traditions and excitement. Although this book has 338 pages, the pages just flew by as the story progressed. A well written, intriguing suspense with a surprise revealed at the end. The plot is well thought out and the characters are believable and realistic. Not all is sugar and spice, there are some rotten apples in the bunch. The descriptions are so well done the reader experiences everything and easily visualizes the area the story is set. This is my first book by the author and I will happily read anything else she writes. I received this book through the APX website. 5*
Bell of Eternity #2 - After reading Lake of Destiny, I was hooked on this author and had to read more of her books. I contacted the author to review anything she had available. This is a well written, intriguing romance with interesting background material to make the story flow along, while being a substantial read. The interesting characters draw the reader into the story with their actions, reactions and believable dialog. The plot has a twist and turn, also, keeping the reader immersed in the story, along with the author's gift for descriptions. I've always loved books about the Cornwall area, fiction and nonfiction, and this book is among the best of them. It was interesting to learn of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and the history behind the volunteers. 5*
Magic of Winter #3 - Another well written, intriguing romance set the Cornwall area with our favorite and not so favorite characters. A second chance at love fraught with problems, both with the romance and a dying father. The characters are well thought out with realistic dialog and a willingness to communicate. The descriptions by the author are vivid and the plot is interesting and both help keep the reader immersed in the pages. I've read all three books and while this one isn't my favorite (it is good), all three were well done and the author is an interesting storyteller. Reading all three in order just makes a continuing story, but they can be read in any order, but why? 5*
Echo of Glory #4 - This story fits well into the series. Complete with history, romance and intrigue. Well written, lovable characters with realistic dialog and a storyline that holds the reader's attention until the end. Ms. Boone does a great job with her vivid descriptions and the history of the people and times are always an added bonus that strengthens and adds substance to the story.
Welcome Home – I loved it. I felt like we were across the table from each other or on the front porch. I've read hundreds of books on history and some of those authors could have used her help. Hopefully, she'll start of some of the "I hate history" set to read again. Please, excuse my poorly written review, it was difficult to write being emotional about history and how exciting it is to me. 5*
The perfect history book for those with short attention spans; hate history; like humor mixed with their history; or wonder where Ms. Boone got her ideas for her wonderful series. The author has done an excellent job with describing the historical background of her books. Reading Welcome Home was just as entertaining as her series. Although written as a time-sequential (or hop about using the TOC) bits and bobs of the history of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Cornwall, and how their histories mesh, the book is informative, too.
Of course, there’s nothing dry or boring with her writing style. Even if you don’t like “history” books, give this book a try. It may start you on the road to reading more about the history behind the other novels you read. Ever test your ethnic background? History explains how those foreign bloodlines became yours. I’m English/Irish/German, so where did the Asian and Middle Eastern lines come from? - Genghis Khan and Attila the Hun, and the Moors and the Spanish Armada. As I read my bloodlines, I knew the history behind each one; it made it exciting. Just as Ms. Boone uses Welcome Home to create excitement for her readers about the background of her books. Of course, you don’t need the history to enjoy her books.
Lake of Destiny #1 - This story has it all: romance, intrigue, traditions and excitement. Although this book has 338 pages, the pages just flew by as the story progressed. A well written, intriguing suspense with a surprise revealed at the end. The plot is well thought out and the characters are believable and realistic. Not all is sugar and spice, there are some rotten apples in the bunch. The descriptions are so well done the reader experiences everything and easily visualizes the area the story is set. This is my first book by the author and I will happily read anything else she writes. I received this book through the APX website. 5*
Bell of Eternity #2 - After reading Lake of Destiny, I was hooked on this author and had to read more of her books. I contacted the author to review anything she had available. This is a well written, intriguing romance with interesting background material to make the story flow along, while being a substantial read. The interesting characters draw the reader into the story with their actions, reactions and believable dialog. The plot has a twist and turn, also, keeping the reader immersed in the story, along with the author's gift for descriptions. I've always loved books about the Cornwall area, fiction and nonfiction, and this book is among the best of them. It was interesting to learn of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and the history behind the volunteers. 5*
Magic of Winter #3 - Another well written, intriguing romance set the Cornwall area with our favorite and not so favorite characters. A second chance at love fraught with problems, both with the romance and a dying father. The characters are well thought out with realistic dialog and a willingness to communicate. The descriptions by the author are vivid and the plot is interesting and both help keep the reader immersed in the pages. I've read all three books and while this one isn't my favorite (it is good), all three were well done and the author is an interesting storyteller. Reading all three in order just makes a continuing story, but they can be read in any order, but why? 5*
Echo of Glory #4 - This story fits well into the series. Complete with history, romance and intrigue. Well written, lovable characters with realistic dialog and a storyline that holds the reader's attention until the end. Ms. Boone does a great job with her vivid descriptions and the history of the people and times are always an added bonus that strengthens and adds substance to the story.
Welcome Home – I loved it. I felt like we were across the table from each other or on the front porch. I've read hundreds of books on history and some of those authors could have used her help. Hopefully, she'll start of some of the "I hate history" set to read again. Please, excuse my poorly written review, it was difficult to write being emotional about history and how exciting it is to me. 5*
The perfect history book for those with short attention spans; hate history; like humor mixed with their history; or wonder where Ms. Boone got her ideas for her wonderful series. The author has done an excellent job with describing the historical background of her books. Reading Welcome Home was just as entertaining as her series. Although written as a time-sequential (or hop about using the TOC) bits and bobs of the history of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Cornwall, and how their histories mesh, the book is informative, too.
Of course, there’s nothing dry or boring with her writing style. Even if you don’t like “history” books, give this book a try. It may start you on the road to reading more about the history behind the other novels you read. Ever test your ethnic background? History explains how those foreign bloodlines became yours. I’m English/Irish/German, so where did the Asian and Middle Eastern lines come from? - Genghis Khan and Attila the Hun, and the Moors and the Spanish Armada. As I read my bloodlines, I knew the history behind each one; it made it exciting. Just as Ms. Boone uses Welcome Home to create excitement for her readers about the background of her books. Of course, you don’t need the history to enjoy her books.
November 2, 2018
Where to start… Should I begin with the book’s beginning, where Izzy loses her mother and discovers that perhaps she never really knew her at all? Or should I skip ahead a bit to where Izzy, on a quest of discovery in England, walks into Halford Hall? For it is there that the story really takes off. Having experienced “love at first sight” myself more than fifty years ago, I find it easy to accept that this may be what is happening to Izzy and Malcolm when they see each other for the first time. Of course, Boone must toss one obstacle after another into the path of these two young people. That’s what makes good reading, is it not?
Love for Two Lifetimes was so much more than I had expected. I received a free copy of this book, and I admit I wasn’t looking for a great read—I was just hoping for a decent one. I’ve downloaded scads of free books in the past few years, but I have never read a free book that cut so quickly and so deeply into my heart. Billed as a young adult experience, Love for Two Lifetimes is a book that can be read and enjoyed by everyone from pre-teen to senior citizen (of which I am one). It should appeal more to the females in the reading audience, but since it’s told from the points of view of both Izzy and Malcolm, I think it will have an even broader appeal.
That’s one of the things that makes this book work so well for me. Boone’s approach to the story involves telling the story through the eyes of three people: Izzy, Malcolm, and Malcolm’s father, Ian. She also uses flashbacks (sparingly) and letters to bring both the present and the past to life. But it is her beautiful, lyrical prose, combined with her seamless insertion of dozens of tidbits about history, science, and the arts, that make this book glow so brightly.
Love for Two Lifetimes is a wonderful title, because it’s the story of a young Izzy and Malcolm juxtaposed against the tragic love story of their parents, Cella and Ian, who never found happiness together. Soon we are wondering if these young people will be any luckier. I love happy endings, and I love a bit of suspense; Boone fed that love by never letting me know, not until the very end, whether I would get my happy ending. It doesn’t always have to be happy—but it must be a satisfying ending, or I can’t give the book a five-star review. Well, this book earned a five-star rating from me.
With lyrical prose, attention to detail, captivating imagery, two young would-be lovers, and just the right amount of suspense, Boone drew this sixty-something into Izzy and Malcolm’s world and filled me with regret that the story had, finally, to end. But before it does, readers are taken on a whirlwind quest from America to England to India and its Taj Mahal.
The only negative for me was a technical one—the font used for Cella’s letters to Ian. I’m sure they were easy to read in the actual book, but reading them on a Kindle was a bit difficult. Never fear, I read and savored every word—just as Izzy, Malcolm, Ian, and eventually what seemed like half of India did, too.
Love for Two Lifetimes was so much more than I had expected. I received a free copy of this book, and I admit I wasn’t looking for a great read—I was just hoping for a decent one. I’ve downloaded scads of free books in the past few years, but I have never read a free book that cut so quickly and so deeply into my heart. Billed as a young adult experience, Love for Two Lifetimes is a book that can be read and enjoyed by everyone from pre-teen to senior citizen (of which I am one). It should appeal more to the females in the reading audience, but since it’s told from the points of view of both Izzy and Malcolm, I think it will have an even broader appeal.
That’s one of the things that makes this book work so well for me. Boone’s approach to the story involves telling the story through the eyes of three people: Izzy, Malcolm, and Malcolm’s father, Ian. She also uses flashbacks (sparingly) and letters to bring both the present and the past to life. But it is her beautiful, lyrical prose, combined with her seamless insertion of dozens of tidbits about history, science, and the arts, that make this book glow so brightly.
Love for Two Lifetimes is a wonderful title, because it’s the story of a young Izzy and Malcolm juxtaposed against the tragic love story of their parents, Cella and Ian, who never found happiness together. Soon we are wondering if these young people will be any luckier. I love happy endings, and I love a bit of suspense; Boone fed that love by never letting me know, not until the very end, whether I would get my happy ending. It doesn’t always have to be happy—but it must be a satisfying ending, or I can’t give the book a five-star review. Well, this book earned a five-star rating from me.
With lyrical prose, attention to detail, captivating imagery, two young would-be lovers, and just the right amount of suspense, Boone drew this sixty-something into Izzy and Malcolm’s world and filled me with regret that the story had, finally, to end. But before it does, readers are taken on a whirlwind quest from America to England to India and its Taj Mahal.
The only negative for me was a technical one—the font used for Cella’s letters to Ian. I’m sure they were easy to read in the actual book, but reading them on a Kindle was a bit difficult. Never fear, I read and savored every word—just as Izzy, Malcolm, Ian, and eventually what seemed like half of India did, too.
September 29, 2018
What an amazing book about lies, loss, sacrifice and forever love. It was hard to put this book down once I started reading. The characters are real and flawed and developed. Ms. Boone is a master at making you feel the emotions that each character displays.
Izzy dearly loved her mother who was a famous classical pianist. They had always been close because there had never been any other family in the picture; other than her best friend, Elli's family. Izzy never knew her father; didn't even know his name or anything about him. She had never felt that she needed more than she already had. But, when her mother was suddenly killed in a car accident, she realized she had never really known her mother at all. In going through her things, she found a box of love letters that her mother had written but had never sent. They were gut wrenching and sad and full of life and love. They were written to a man named Ian Halford who lived in England. Izzy felt that she needed to find this man and determine if he was the father she had never known.
Izzy made plans to fly to England and find Ian Halford. He was an earl by birth and a doctor by profession. When she arrived at the manor, she found Ian's son, Malcolm. At first, Malcolm didn't know what to make of Izzy but as he began to get to know her, he felt he needed to help her. Izzy had brought her mother's letters with her to share with Ian. Malcolm's life had been hard, his twin sister had died suddenly when they were eight years old and then his mother died when he was about twelve. It had been just he and his father for so many years and he had learned of his father's obsession with the classical pianist he referred to as Cella. Malcolm felt that both his father and Cella had destroyed his mother but as he learned more of the story, he realized there was more that he didn't know about the situation.
This threesome traveled to India and to the Taj Mahal and discovered more about the love between Cella and Ian and the relationship between Ian's parents. They learned that true love is worth any sacrifice. Izzy and Malcolm were confused because they both felt more toward each other than siblings should but they didn't know the truth about whether or not they were indeed step siblings and how weird it would be to find out that their feelings were not very sibling like. I won't give away the story but I would advise having kleenex near by. In the final examination of the story, the one problem I had was the lies that had to continue so some of the truth would never be known. I felt sad for those who had to keep the secrets and could never fully express the love they had.
Ms. Boone's books are some I enjoy reading very much and I am sure this will not be the last of her books that I have on my reading shelf.
Izzy dearly loved her mother who was a famous classical pianist. They had always been close because there had never been any other family in the picture; other than her best friend, Elli's family. Izzy never knew her father; didn't even know his name or anything about him. She had never felt that she needed more than she already had. But, when her mother was suddenly killed in a car accident, she realized she had never really known her mother at all. In going through her things, she found a box of love letters that her mother had written but had never sent. They were gut wrenching and sad and full of life and love. They were written to a man named Ian Halford who lived in England. Izzy felt that she needed to find this man and determine if he was the father she had never known.
Izzy made plans to fly to England and find Ian Halford. He was an earl by birth and a doctor by profession. When she arrived at the manor, she found Ian's son, Malcolm. At first, Malcolm didn't know what to make of Izzy but as he began to get to know her, he felt he needed to help her. Izzy had brought her mother's letters with her to share with Ian. Malcolm's life had been hard, his twin sister had died suddenly when they were eight years old and then his mother died when he was about twelve. It had been just he and his father for so many years and he had learned of his father's obsession with the classical pianist he referred to as Cella. Malcolm felt that both his father and Cella had destroyed his mother but as he learned more of the story, he realized there was more that he didn't know about the situation.
This threesome traveled to India and to the Taj Mahal and discovered more about the love between Cella and Ian and the relationship between Ian's parents. They learned that true love is worth any sacrifice. Izzy and Malcolm were confused because they both felt more toward each other than siblings should but they didn't know the truth about whether or not they were indeed step siblings and how weird it would be to find out that their feelings were not very sibling like. I won't give away the story but I would advise having kleenex near by. In the final examination of the story, the one problem I had was the lies that had to continue so some of the truth would never be known. I felt sad for those who had to keep the secrets and could never fully express the love they had.
Ms. Boone's books are some I enjoy reading very much and I am sure this will not be the last of her books that I have on my reading shelf.
October 19, 2018
Love for Two Lifetimes by Martina Boone (5 stars)
I don’t give 5 star reviews out very often; I want them to mean something. This book, for me, was beyond 5 stars and I’ll be re-reading it as a favorite go-to novel.
The characters in this book are young, but wise beyond their years and so an older reader can glean as much wisdom from these characters’ insights as a YA reader.
We’ve all lived through trials, grief, and loneliness. I’ve always found it difficult to put into words what I feel during those times, especially when the numbness of shock gives way to feeling again and one has to cope with those feelings. Ms. Boone describes with such eloquence the emotions that the characters are feeling, that I relate to them on a level that’s more personal and intimate because they are describing my feelings as I went through those emotional upheavals in my own life.
Luckily, she is not only good at describing grief and heartache, but love in all its forms. This book is all about love. There is parental love, friendship love, romantic love and unconditional love. Her descriptions are so very real and relatable, they pull one into the world of her novel.
There is humor interspersed and Ms. Boone has some very clever texts going back and forth between Izzy, her main character, and her best friend.
There is wisdom and depth and it will take more than one reading to really process the insights she shares about life through her characters (this is actually true of her other books, as well).
I love that on one of its many levels, this is a book about young people on the cusp of adulthood, finding out that their parents are human and that the ‘mistakes’ their parents made were made out of unconditional love for them.
It is not a given that there will be an HEA in the end and if that would stop you from reading it, then let me assure you that the ending is all that is wonderful!
I could go on and on. I’m sure as I read it a 2nd, 3rd and 4th time, I’ll feel that my writing in this review doesn’t do the book justice, but then I’m no Martina Boone ;-)
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
I don’t give 5 star reviews out very often; I want them to mean something. This book, for me, was beyond 5 stars and I’ll be re-reading it as a favorite go-to novel.
The characters in this book are young, but wise beyond their years and so an older reader can glean as much wisdom from these characters’ insights as a YA reader.
We’ve all lived through trials, grief, and loneliness. I’ve always found it difficult to put into words what I feel during those times, especially when the numbness of shock gives way to feeling again and one has to cope with those feelings. Ms. Boone describes with such eloquence the emotions that the characters are feeling, that I relate to them on a level that’s more personal and intimate because they are describing my feelings as I went through those emotional upheavals in my own life.
Luckily, she is not only good at describing grief and heartache, but love in all its forms. This book is all about love. There is parental love, friendship love, romantic love and unconditional love. Her descriptions are so very real and relatable, they pull one into the world of her novel.
There is humor interspersed and Ms. Boone has some very clever texts going back and forth between Izzy, her main character, and her best friend.
There is wisdom and depth and it will take more than one reading to really process the insights she shares about life through her characters (this is actually true of her other books, as well).
I love that on one of its many levels, this is a book about young people on the cusp of adulthood, finding out that their parents are human and that the ‘mistakes’ their parents made were made out of unconditional love for them.
It is not a given that there will be an HEA in the end and if that would stop you from reading it, then let me assure you that the ending is all that is wonderful!
I could go on and on. I’m sure as I read it a 2nd, 3rd and 4th time, I’ll feel that my writing in this review doesn’t do the book justice, but then I’m no Martina Boone ;-)
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
January 14, 2019
Thank you to Martina Boone for a copy of the book!
This book is a major roller coaster of emotions.
Love For Two Lifetimes is told in dual perspectives of Izzy and Malcolm. This dual point-of-view is done amazingly well as always by Boone and really helps make the story so special.
First, we have Izzy who loses her famous piano-playing mother in a car accident her senior year of highschools months before she graduates. Her mother's death leaves her heartbroken, lost, and confused. While going through her mom's papers to pay the bills, she finds a box full of unsent letters her mom had written to a mysterious guy Izzy had never heard her talk about before. The more Izzy reads these letters the more she learns about her mom's life before her. With the clues in the letters and some internet searches, she finds out where the guy lives. After that, she decides to see why her mom loved him so much and if he could give her any clues about the part of her mom's life she knew nothing about.
Izzy also has a faithful best friend Elli by her side through the book rather it be in person or through texts she is always cheering her on and lending a helping hand when needed. I loved Elli so much throughout the book and I am so glad that Izzy had such an amazing best friend by her side that was so supportive.
We also have Malcolm who is so kind, caring, and just so easy to love the more you get to know him. I loved seeing things from his point of view and getting to know him and his life. It was such a vast difference from Izzy's that it made the two of them work so well together as a team to try and figure out this mystery of her mom's life.
Overall I really did love this book. We all know Contemporary that leads more towards the romance genre isn't my typical favorite type of book, but this one just did something for me. We had the mystery aspect as well of figuring out her moms past which I loved, and then we had Malcolm's family history and all that they do to help keep history and knowledge alive.
Boone did an amazing job as always with this book and I am so glad she wrote another YA book! I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.
This book is a major roller coaster of emotions.
Love For Two Lifetimes is told in dual perspectives of Izzy and Malcolm. This dual point-of-view is done amazingly well as always by Boone and really helps make the story so special.
First, we have Izzy who loses her famous piano-playing mother in a car accident her senior year of highschools months before she graduates. Her mother's death leaves her heartbroken, lost, and confused. While going through her mom's papers to pay the bills, she finds a box full of unsent letters her mom had written to a mysterious guy Izzy had never heard her talk about before. The more Izzy reads these letters the more she learns about her mom's life before her. With the clues in the letters and some internet searches, she finds out where the guy lives. After that, she decides to see why her mom loved him so much and if he could give her any clues about the part of her mom's life she knew nothing about.
Izzy also has a faithful best friend Elli by her side through the book rather it be in person or through texts she is always cheering her on and lending a helping hand when needed. I loved Elli so much throughout the book and I am so glad that Izzy had such an amazing best friend by her side that was so supportive.
We also have Malcolm who is so kind, caring, and just so easy to love the more you get to know him. I loved seeing things from his point of view and getting to know him and his life. It was such a vast difference from Izzy's that it made the two of them work so well together as a team to try and figure out this mystery of her mom's life.
Overall I really did love this book. We all know Contemporary that leads more towards the romance genre isn't my typical favorite type of book, but this one just did something for me. We had the mystery aspect as well of figuring out her moms past which I loved, and then we had Malcolm's family history and all that they do to help keep history and knowledge alive.
Boone did an amazing job as always with this book and I am so glad she wrote another YA book! I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.
September 11, 2018
I swear, Martina Boone will never write a book that I don’t love. It hasn’t happened yet, and I don’t think it ever will. I’m not usually picking up pure contemporary romances in September, but when I got the chance to review an early copy of Love for Two Lifetimes, I needed to jump on it.
I love the way that Martina writes romance with the perfect amount of angst, and oooooooh boy, is there some angst here. There really are two love stories being told throughout this book, even if we’re only present for one. While I adored Izzy and Malcolm, I have to say that Izzy’s mom’s story was also such a high point for me. The way that Izzy’s mother’s story is told is so, so beautiful and honestly brought me to tears at some points. Definitely prepare some tissues when you sit down to read this one.
Speaking of sitting down and reading, I tore through this book so quickly. I actually started reading at work as part of a silent protest for having to work on Labor Day (LOL) and then finished it when I got home. It’s that good. As always, Martina’s writing style is so smooth, and her pacing is absolutely perfect.
“You’re singing praises but only gave it four stars?”
Ah, yes. The only detail that I was a bit “meh” about was the way that the plot resolves and the story ends. It’s virtually impossible to explain what I mean without spoiling major (and I mean MAJOR) plot points, but I felt a little unsatisfied, or maybe just unsure of how things would work out. I’m so used to plots being neatly tied up, that an ending where not quite everything is brought to light kind of threw me.
Despite the ending throwing me off, I really did adore Love for Two Lifetimes. If you like Martina Boone’s writing, or even if you’re new to her and are curious, definitely check this one out as soon as it releases. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
I love the way that Martina writes romance with the perfect amount of angst, and oooooooh boy, is there some angst here. There really are two love stories being told throughout this book, even if we’re only present for one. While I adored Izzy and Malcolm, I have to say that Izzy’s mom’s story was also such a high point for me. The way that Izzy’s mother’s story is told is so, so beautiful and honestly brought me to tears at some points. Definitely prepare some tissues when you sit down to read this one.
Speaking of sitting down and reading, I tore through this book so quickly. I actually started reading at work as part of a silent protest for having to work on Labor Day (LOL) and then finished it when I got home. It’s that good. As always, Martina’s writing style is so smooth, and her pacing is absolutely perfect.
“You’re singing praises but only gave it four stars?”
Ah, yes. The only detail that I was a bit “meh” about was the way that the plot resolves and the story ends. It’s virtually impossible to explain what I mean without spoiling major (and I mean MAJOR) plot points, but I felt a little unsatisfied, or maybe just unsure of how things would work out. I’m so used to plots being neatly tied up, that an ending where not quite everything is brought to light kind of threw me.
Despite the ending throwing me off, I really did adore Love for Two Lifetimes. If you like Martina Boone’s writing, or even if you’re new to her and are curious, definitely check this one out as soon as it releases. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
November 7, 2018
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
Love for Two Lifetimes is an inspiring, heartwarming book, and one of my favorite reads in this genre this year. Izzy’s mother passes away in a car accident, and Izzy has no idea how she will ever cope with the loss. When she finds a box full of love letters written by her mother but never sent out, Izzy follows the trail of her mother’s history, and the love she cherished for so long but did not act upon.
This leads Izzy into the world of English royalty, where she finds someone who is as broken as she is, Malcolm. The two of them have instense chemistry, and soon enough, they can no longer deny the passion between them. As they discover more about Izzy’s family history, they grow closer and closer together.
I loved Malcolm. He was caring, loving, and capable of putting others’ needs in front of his own. I also really liked Izzy’s personality, she was complex and emotional, but all in a good way, and easy to relate to. I particularly envied the relationship Izzy had with her mother, and it reminds me a lot of the relationship I have with my mother.
Fans of love stories, especially those that span generations, should definitely read this book. It’s an excellent read, and will leave you wanting more.
Love for Two Lifetimes is an inspiring, heartwarming book, and one of my favorite reads in this genre this year. Izzy’s mother passes away in a car accident, and Izzy has no idea how she will ever cope with the loss. When she finds a box full of love letters written by her mother but never sent out, Izzy follows the trail of her mother’s history, and the love she cherished for so long but did not act upon.
This leads Izzy into the world of English royalty, where she finds someone who is as broken as she is, Malcolm. The two of them have instense chemistry, and soon enough, they can no longer deny the passion between them. As they discover more about Izzy’s family history, they grow closer and closer together.
I loved Malcolm. He was caring, loving, and capable of putting others’ needs in front of his own. I also really liked Izzy’s personality, she was complex and emotional, but all in a good way, and easy to relate to. I particularly envied the relationship Izzy had with her mother, and it reminds me a lot of the relationship I have with my mother.
Fans of love stories, especially those that span generations, should definitely read this book. It’s an excellent read, and will leave you wanting more.
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