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Genealogy
Top 100 Amazon bestseller! Top 10 Nook bestseller! Top 20 Apple Books bestseller!
Inspired by real, hundred-year-old love letters.
My great-grandmother's name is bold across the cream envelope, now golden at the seams with age. I can't remember the last time I’ve seen graceful, purposeful handwriting with a fountain pen and not the hasty scrawl of ballpoint.
Alice Hirshhorn, Astoria Hotel, Seattle Washington.
“Letters to Great-grandma Alice,” I say with wonder, tracing my fingers over the faded postmark and foreign stamps.
December 1915. Philippine Islands.
I turn the thick envelope in my palm, slide out the tightly folded pages, and unfold the thin paper, taking care not to tear the letters that were important enough to keep for a century.
My dearest Alice
“Great-grandpa was in the Philippines?” I ask.
“Oh no. Not your great-grandfather,” answers Grammie, her eyes twinkling with her mother’s secrets. “Elliott.”
~
At thirty-three and with her future unclear, Ali Waller finds her way home again. A box of long-forgotten love letters written to her great-grandmother holds the unlikely key to Ali finding her new path.
As she tracks down the letter writer and his descendants, Ali learns the magic of love, hope, and resilience.
Told by three characters, and across century and an ocean, Genealogy is an enchanting story about love and loss, taking chances, and embracing the surprises that life brings.
Inspired by real, hundred-year-old love letters.
My great-grandmother's name is bold across the cream envelope, now golden at the seams with age. I can't remember the last time I’ve seen graceful, purposeful handwriting with a fountain pen and not the hasty scrawl of ballpoint.
Alice Hirshhorn, Astoria Hotel, Seattle Washington.
“Letters to Great-grandma Alice,” I say with wonder, tracing my fingers over the faded postmark and foreign stamps.
December 1915. Philippine Islands.
I turn the thick envelope in my palm, slide out the tightly folded pages, and unfold the thin paper, taking care not to tear the letters that were important enough to keep for a century.
My dearest Alice
“Great-grandpa was in the Philippines?” I ask.
“Oh no. Not your great-grandfather,” answers Grammie, her eyes twinkling with her mother’s secrets. “Elliott.”
~
At thirty-three and with her future unclear, Ali Waller finds her way home again. A box of long-forgotten love letters written to her great-grandmother holds the unlikely key to Ali finding her new path.
As she tracks down the letter writer and his descendants, Ali learns the magic of love, hope, and resilience.
Told by three characters, and across century and an ocean, Genealogy is an enchanting story about love and loss, taking chances, and embracing the surprises that life brings.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2018
2017 people are currently reading
3153 people want to read
About the author
Mae Wood
9 books437 followersProfessional sassypants and novelist, Mae Wood has been a bookworm her entire life.
She loves cheeses, complicated crafts that she'll start but never complete, and puns.
A while ago Mae decided that she needed to give up the fear that she couldn't write "great literature" and write what she wants to read.
And she wants romance. And laughter. And real life.
She wants heroines who are brave. Brave enough to be themselves and brave enough to fall in love. She wants men who are strong and kind.
So, what do you want to know about Mae? Drop her an email, ask questions, and she'll respond.
Visit her website for bonus content, including deleted scenes, sneak peeks, and
behind-the-scenes treats.
MaeWoodWrites@gmail.com
www.maewood.com
She loves cheeses, complicated crafts that she'll start but never complete, and puns.
A while ago Mae decided that she needed to give up the fear that she couldn't write "great literature" and write what she wants to read.
And she wants romance. And laughter. And real life.
She wants heroines who are brave. Brave enough to be themselves and brave enough to fall in love. She wants men who are strong and kind.
So, what do you want to know about Mae? Drop her an email, ask questions, and she'll respond.
Visit her website for bonus content, including deleted scenes, sneak peeks, and
behind-the-scenes treats.
MaeWoodWrites@gmail.com
www.maewood.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
October 21, 2018
I received an earc for free to base my review on. Thank you so much for the opportunity Mae.
I have to say I loved reading this book. There are a few POV's throughout the novel that takes us from Ali, Elliot, and Alice. I love how descriptive Mae is with her world building, and she shows us that by going back into history; we can find out about our families, well especially Elliot and Alice.
I also loved the fact that Ali regained her confidence after not getting the job/position she wanted. She is a doctor that specializes in the ENT field. She loves to see the smiles on children when they can finally hear for the first time.
But along with her not getting that position that she wanted, her beau of a few months later decide to break it off their relationship. But that ultimately allows her to open her heart to love another.
After reading the letters that Elliot had written to Alice nearly a hundred years earlier; Ali and her friend help to find out what happened to Elliot. Even though they (Alice and Elliot) had deep feelings for one another they could not find there way back to each other.
I loved the clean romance within the pages. It was really sweet. Even though there was some heartbreak to go through first, love finally found the way.
Mae I loved your story from the very beginning. I also liked how you added in your own story in the Author's notes section. I've been a fan of family histories for quite some time now. We've done some extensive research in both my maternal and paternal side and it's quite fascinating to see where generations before us have lived. If you ever want some help finding Erwin. I'd love to do some digging for you.
I have to say I loved reading this book. There are a few POV's throughout the novel that takes us from Ali, Elliot, and Alice. I love how descriptive Mae is with her world building, and she shows us that by going back into history; we can find out about our families, well especially Elliot and Alice.
I also loved the fact that Ali regained her confidence after not getting the job/position she wanted. She is a doctor that specializes in the ENT field. She loves to see the smiles on children when they can finally hear for the first time.
But along with her not getting that position that she wanted, her beau of a few months later decide to break it off their relationship. But that ultimately allows her to open her heart to love another.
After reading the letters that Elliot had written to Alice nearly a hundred years earlier; Ali and her friend help to find out what happened to Elliot. Even though they (Alice and Elliot) had deep feelings for one another they could not find there way back to each other.
I loved the clean romance within the pages. It was really sweet. Even though there was some heartbreak to go through first, love finally found the way.
Mae I loved your story from the very beginning. I also liked how you added in your own story in the Author's notes section. I've been a fan of family histories for quite some time now. We've done some extensive research in both my maternal and paternal side and it's quite fascinating to see where generations before us have lived. If you ever want some help finding Erwin. I'd love to do some digging for you.
November 4, 2018
Mae Wood has crafted a beautiful masterpiece that spans oceans and generations. It touches on war and loss, love and life, and hopes and dreams. It weaves its way effortlessly through timelines to create a stunningly written story filled with bittersweet connections.
Mae told me this book wasn’t romance, but I have to disagree.
I fell in love with each character, each couple and each life story. I yearned. I swallowed down tears, and I smiled big.
If that’s not romance, then I don’t know what is.
Genealogy is perfection.
Trust me when I say, you need this story in your life.
Genealogy has secured a place in my top 10 books of 2018!
If you're a fan of books like The Notebook or From Sand And Ash, you NEED this book!
Mae told me this book wasn’t romance, but I have to disagree.
I fell in love with each character, each couple and each life story. I yearned. I swallowed down tears, and I smiled big.
If that’s not romance, then I don’t know what is.
Genealogy is perfection.
Trust me when I say, you need this story in your life.
Genealogy has secured a place in my top 10 books of 2018!
If you're a fan of books like The Notebook or From Sand And Ash, you NEED this book!
November 2, 2018
Joy, heartbreak, and love captured in ink. Letters of a bygone era, when words promised and beckoned. The background which leads into Ali and Ben’s story was nothing short of magical for me. I loved every word. The way the author allowed the past and present to merge and enfold was perfect. Beautifully told, elegantly styled.
An epic journey of life and love – timeless and beautiful.
An epic journey of life and love – timeless and beautiful.
October 25, 2018
IT'S LIVE.
•
Sometimes love burns slowly like a smoldering coal and sometimes it’s a flaming forest fire.
It’s nearly impossible to properly measure the effect Mae Wood’s Genealogy had on my heart. Still, I will try. Because y’all need this book in your life—that I know for sure.
Brilliant and bittersweet. Sweet and swoonworthy. Just a few of the words that ran across my mind as I sank into the lives and loves of Ali, Alice and Elliott, separated by oceans and time. Every word on every page had some kind of pull or meaning or weight that physically impacted me: a declaration of love that made my heart swell; a change of plans that made my eyes water; a goofy connection that made my lips tilt; a chance meeting that gave me goosebumps.
And whether it was those physical signs, or the way-too-late nights reading, or the stray thoughts throughout the day—or perhaps some combination therein—the fact is, there was just something about Genealogy. Something special, and brilliant, and swoonworthy.
Something utterly unique, which, frankly, had an immeasurable effect on my heart.
I am here. So are you. And in this little brief and wild existence, we should be together.
~ SIX STARS ~
•
•
Sometimes love burns slowly like a smoldering coal and sometimes it’s a flaming forest fire.
It’s nearly impossible to properly measure the effect Mae Wood’s Genealogy had on my heart. Still, I will try. Because y’all need this book in your life—that I know for sure.
Brilliant and bittersweet. Sweet and swoonworthy. Just a few of the words that ran across my mind as I sank into the lives and loves of Ali, Alice and Elliott, separated by oceans and time. Every word on every page had some kind of pull or meaning or weight that physically impacted me: a declaration of love that made my heart swell; a change of plans that made my eyes water; a goofy connection that made my lips tilt; a chance meeting that gave me goosebumps.
And whether it was those physical signs, or the way-too-late nights reading, or the stray thoughts throughout the day—or perhaps some combination therein—the fact is, there was just something about Genealogy. Something special, and brilliant, and swoonworthy.
Something utterly unique, which, frankly, had an immeasurable effect on my heart.
I am here. So are you. And in this little brief and wild existence, we should be together.
~ SIX STARS ~
•
October 25, 2018
Inspired by the real 100 year old love letters belonging to the author’s great-grandmother, Genealogy is a moving story of love, missed opportunities and destiny in action.
‘Come with me, Alice. Stay with me, explore with me, journey with me. Marry me. Because when the ground gives way under my feet again, I don’t want to have been the man who sent you pink roses, too afraid to buy the red ones that I wanted to give you. I don’t want to be the man who worked so long to prepare the perfect place for you that he spent all of his life waiting. I’m sick of waiting. Beyond full of it. Without you I am hollow.’
More than just a love story, Genealogy is also a novel about finding yourself when your life has taken an unexpected turn. In many ways, it’s about second chances, not only at love and happiness, but for yourself, and tuning into what you really want out of life. Lessons from the past thread through this narrative and I enjoyed Ali’s journey of discovery – both of her great-grandmother’s letters that reveal Alice’s past life and Ali’s own personal growth as she stood at a crossroads within her life.
‘And at that moment, Alice became real to me. I could be her. I could be the woman writing letters. And a hundred years later, she could be me.’
I really enjoyed the arrangement of this novel, hearing Elliott’s story (the letter writer) as well as Alice’s version of events, each bracketed by Ali herself at key points in time. While I predicted the direction of Ali’s story, I appreciated the way it unfolded. Instead of the usual insta-love and happy ever afters that sometimes typify the romance genre, the growing connection between Ali and Ben, Elliott’s great-grandson, was more realistic with an open ended finish that inspired hope for the future of these characters. I particularly loved how the author paralleled the love letters between Elliott and Alice from a hundred years earlier with the email exchange between Ali and Ben. The same intent, but 100 years later, adjusted for the technology of our times.
'“I don’t want to look back in twenty years and wish that I’d explored this with him. I don’t want to have a file on a computer somewhere of all our text messages and emails and let a big ‘what if’ haunt me.”
“I get it. You don’t want to be Alice with her box of love letters.”'
Genealogy is a novel that has a wide appeal. The letters between Elliott and Alice contain a wonderful nod to early 20th century history and the contemporary story about Ali and Ben had a lot to offer in terms of contemplation and good feels. Family history is such an area of growing interest and I enjoyed how this novel taps into that, proving that for many of us, we still, no matter how far we’ve come, are often looking back over one shoulder for our roots, the beginning of who we are, as a means of measuring who we want to become.
Thanks is extended to the author, Mae Wood, for providing me with a copy of Genealogy for review.
‘Come with me, Alice. Stay with me, explore with me, journey with me. Marry me. Because when the ground gives way under my feet again, I don’t want to have been the man who sent you pink roses, too afraid to buy the red ones that I wanted to give you. I don’t want to be the man who worked so long to prepare the perfect place for you that he spent all of his life waiting. I’m sick of waiting. Beyond full of it. Without you I am hollow.’
More than just a love story, Genealogy is also a novel about finding yourself when your life has taken an unexpected turn. In many ways, it’s about second chances, not only at love and happiness, but for yourself, and tuning into what you really want out of life. Lessons from the past thread through this narrative and I enjoyed Ali’s journey of discovery – both of her great-grandmother’s letters that reveal Alice’s past life and Ali’s own personal growth as she stood at a crossroads within her life.
‘And at that moment, Alice became real to me. I could be her. I could be the woman writing letters. And a hundred years later, she could be me.’
I really enjoyed the arrangement of this novel, hearing Elliott’s story (the letter writer) as well as Alice’s version of events, each bracketed by Ali herself at key points in time. While I predicted the direction of Ali’s story, I appreciated the way it unfolded. Instead of the usual insta-love and happy ever afters that sometimes typify the romance genre, the growing connection between Ali and Ben, Elliott’s great-grandson, was more realistic with an open ended finish that inspired hope for the future of these characters. I particularly loved how the author paralleled the love letters between Elliott and Alice from a hundred years earlier with the email exchange between Ali and Ben. The same intent, but 100 years later, adjusted for the technology of our times.
'“I don’t want to look back in twenty years and wish that I’d explored this with him. I don’t want to have a file on a computer somewhere of all our text messages and emails and let a big ‘what if’ haunt me.”
“I get it. You don’t want to be Alice with her box of love letters.”'
Genealogy is a novel that has a wide appeal. The letters between Elliott and Alice contain a wonderful nod to early 20th century history and the contemporary story about Ali and Ben had a lot to offer in terms of contemplation and good feels. Family history is such an area of growing interest and I enjoyed how this novel taps into that, proving that for many of us, we still, no matter how far we’ve come, are often looking back over one shoulder for our roots, the beginning of who we are, as a means of measuring who we want to become.
Thanks is extended to the author, Mae Wood, for providing me with a copy of Genealogy for review.
June 15, 2019
Loved it. Its not my genre but i read it for a challenge and really liked it. It reads fast and its sweet and loving and it doesnt drags it was really good!
October 26, 2018
Genealogy was an interesting and intriguing book,slightely different from what I usually read.
I have to be honest it was a slow read for me at the beginning but after a few chapters I changed my mind and I was hooked.
Mae Wood did an amazing work,perfectly interwining past and present.
The characters were portrayed so well I could easily understand their feelings, their actions and their choices,even if they lived so many years before my birth.
I have enoyed this journey, the curiousity of the research of a family roots and the discovery of a past we never imagined.
I won't be accurate about the plot because I don't want to rob you of this experience.
This book will stay with you long after you've finished it.I recommend to get it as soon as possible.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
October 23, 2018
This story encompasses so many genres, it's hard to categorize it. It's difficult to explain what you'll feel and the experiences you'll get when you read it. History blends with romance. It is fiction, based largely in reality. Every reader's reaction will be varied and personal. And the words, oh the words, are all carefully chosen, exquisite and full of depth.
I admit, for me it was a slow start. The details of the past sometimes felt heavy. The story, though intriguing, moved slowly. And because of the way the plot was unraveled, through letters and a third person narrative, the action was minimal. I think a lot of the fault here lies with me, though. Historical fiction, especially set in the World War I era, is very outside my wheelhouse. So I pushed through. Because I adore this author and all her previous books and I KNOW how talented she is, even if I just hadn't quite found my groove yet.
I am beyond thrilled that I did. The second half of the book, for me, was phenomenal. Intriguing, emotional, romantic and perfectly paced. Mentioning specific names, details, or plot points would ruin the delicately woven story, as how things played out was a surprise I wouldn't have imagined. And so I will avoid referring to anything that could possibly spoil the magic for potential readers. But I will say that I couldn't put it down from fifty percent on. And when I reached the conclusion, I only wished there would have been more.
I admit, for me it was a slow start. The details of the past sometimes felt heavy. The story, though intriguing, moved slowly. And because of the way the plot was unraveled, through letters and a third person narrative, the action was minimal. I think a lot of the fault here lies with me, though. Historical fiction, especially set in the World War I era, is very outside my wheelhouse. So I pushed through. Because I adore this author and all her previous books and I KNOW how talented she is, even if I just hadn't quite found my groove yet.
I am beyond thrilled that I did. The second half of the book, for me, was phenomenal. Intriguing, emotional, romantic and perfectly paced. Mentioning specific names, details, or plot points would ruin the delicately woven story, as how things played out was a surprise I wouldn't have imagined. And so I will avoid referring to anything that could possibly spoil the magic for potential readers. But I will say that I couldn't put it down from fifty percent on. And when I reached the conclusion, I only wished there would have been more.
October 26, 2018
I literally could not put this book down and read it straight through from start to finish. The love stories (yes more than one) combined together made this book instantly one of my favorites! The transitions between points of view were impeccable and made the progression feel so natural. As we were let more and more into Alice and Elliott’s story we also got to know Ali. I loved these characters, I loved the sweet romance of this book, and I loved every little morsel this book had to offer.
Learning about these characters felt personal and special. I am so thankful for the opportunity to read such an amazing book! I couldn’t recommend this one more.
Learning about these characters felt personal and special. I am so thankful for the opportunity to read such an amazing book! I couldn’t recommend this one more.
October 23, 2018
This isn’t a book like I’ve read before. It’s a story told in present day, and one hundred years in the past.
A second chance romance, but not in the way you would normally expect. A story told in first and third person. Mae has a done a beautiful job of telling parallel stories without confusion.
Ali, named after her great-grandmother Alice, is gifted a set of old love letters. As she reads, we travel with her through a romance. This book gives us all the feelings. It’s happy, expectant, sad, disappointing, hopeful, and contented. Read it and enjoy.
As mentioned, I agree that this would be a great book club read.
A second chance romance, but not in the way you would normally expect. A story told in first and third person. Mae has a done a beautiful job of telling parallel stories without confusion.
Ali, named after her great-grandmother Alice, is gifted a set of old love letters. As she reads, we travel with her through a romance. This book gives us all the feelings. It’s happy, expectant, sad, disappointing, hopeful, and contented. Read it and enjoy.
As mentioned, I agree that this would be a great book club read.
October 15, 2018
"Marry me. Because when the ground gives way under my feet again, I don't want to have been the man who sent you pink roses, too afraid to buy the red ones that I wanted to give you."
This was my first read of Mae Wood, and now, I need to go gobble up everything else she's written. This story was just beautiful! If you ever doubted how one decision can forever alter the universe, doubt no more!!
Ali Waller had her life planned out. A coveted position at one of the best hospitals in California, a home with an ocean view, and marrying the man of her dreams. So how did she end up back in Kansas City with none of the above? At one time she knew exactly what she wanted, but now, she's not even sure who she is. A box of century old love letters, written by mystery man to her great-grandmother, Alice, leads Ali on a journey, that not only brings her insight in to the life of the woman she never had the opportunity to meet, but brings love, hope and adventure to her future.
I loved that the reader gets the full story from three different perspectives. Elliot, the mystery man, pours his heart out to Alice in these letters, written to her from an ocean away after meeting her on a train bound for Seattle. His love never wavered and he tried so hard to get to her. You also get the romance story from Alice's point of view. How she longed for him to return to her and how difficult it was to be separated from one another. Plus, you get Ali's point of view and what's happening in her life and how Alice's story affected her and the path she finally chooses.
All I have to say is that after reading this, I wanted to search the sideboard my grandmother gave me for hidden drawers. Could she have had a secret stash of letters? Did she have a secret lover in her life too? Alas, no hidden drawers but my Grandma was amazing anyway!
I would highly recommend this one to anyone who believes in love. If you don't believe in love, read it anyway. You'll be a believer by the end, trust me. Have the tissues handy for both the sad and happy tears that are bound to fall.
This was my first read of Mae Wood, and now, I need to go gobble up everything else she's written. This story was just beautiful! If you ever doubted how one decision can forever alter the universe, doubt no more!!
Ali Waller had her life planned out. A coveted position at one of the best hospitals in California, a home with an ocean view, and marrying the man of her dreams. So how did she end up back in Kansas City with none of the above? At one time she knew exactly what she wanted, but now, she's not even sure who she is. A box of century old love letters, written by mystery man to her great-grandmother, Alice, leads Ali on a journey, that not only brings her insight in to the life of the woman she never had the opportunity to meet, but brings love, hope and adventure to her future.
I loved that the reader gets the full story from three different perspectives. Elliot, the mystery man, pours his heart out to Alice in these letters, written to her from an ocean away after meeting her on a train bound for Seattle. His love never wavered and he tried so hard to get to her. You also get the romance story from Alice's point of view. How she longed for him to return to her and how difficult it was to be separated from one another. Plus, you get Ali's point of view and what's happening in her life and how Alice's story affected her and the path she finally chooses.
All I have to say is that after reading this, I wanted to search the sideboard my grandmother gave me for hidden drawers. Could she have had a secret stash of letters? Did she have a secret lover in her life too? Alas, no hidden drawers but my Grandma was amazing anyway!
I would highly recommend this one to anyone who believes in love. If you don't believe in love, read it anyway. You'll be a believer by the end, trust me. Have the tissues handy for both the sad and happy tears that are bound to fall.
November 3, 2018
Branching out of my normal read selections, Genealogy offers a star-crossed romance of two generations. This is a story you can recommend to your mother, grandmother and teenage daughter to remind them that your ‘one’ is not always who you think they are.
Genealogy is told in a dual timeline story. Think The Lake House or any Kate Morton fiction. We are treated to the story of Alice and Elliot as World War I is barreling down on them. Ali, Alice’s great granddaughter and namesake, discovers this lost love story as she is packing up her grandmother to move from her life long home. Through these letters Ali grows to learn more about her grandmother and the true meaning of sacrifice and love.
Read more of my review on: https://www.myownbookshelves.com/2018...
Genealogy is told in a dual timeline story. Think The Lake House or any Kate Morton fiction. We are treated to the story of Alice and Elliot as World War I is barreling down on them. Ali, Alice’s great granddaughter and namesake, discovers this lost love story as she is packing up her grandmother to move from her life long home. Through these letters Ali grows to learn more about her grandmother and the true meaning of sacrifice and love.
Read more of my review on: https://www.myownbookshelves.com/2018...
October 17, 2018
Beautifully bittersweet
Every now and again a book comes along that stops me dead in my tracks. I can’t move on from the feelings elicited, the words drummed into my heart. This is one of those books.
Genealogy is a big book. Big in heart, soul, and intent. Swirling in and out through generations, continents, and world wars; this story is bound together by a constant ribbon of correspondence. Heartfelt, lovely, earthy, bittersweet, deliberate correspondence by the star-crossed Elliott and Alice. I fell in love with them, and their story, and their descendants. This book will remain in my heart for a long time to come.
Every now and again a book comes along that stops me dead in my tracks. I can’t move on from the feelings elicited, the words drummed into my heart. This is one of those books.
Genealogy is a big book. Big in heart, soul, and intent. Swirling in and out through generations, continents, and world wars; this story is bound together by a constant ribbon of correspondence. Heartfelt, lovely, earthy, bittersweet, deliberate correspondence by the star-crossed Elliott and Alice. I fell in love with them, and their story, and their descendants. This book will remain in my heart for a long time to come.
October 20, 2019
This is a different type of book for me to read. I enjoyed the older story, though it had some very sad parts. I was pulled into this story from the beginning and didn’t want to put it down. The old letters were beautiful as well. For the current story, the friendship to more development was lovely and I liked all of the characters. Overall, a very good story. From a romance reader standpoint, the wrap up/ending with the current story was a bit abrupt for my liking or what I’m used to, which left me slightly less satisfied (this the 4 star versus 5). That said, though, this was a very interesting read and I really enjoyed it.
February 8, 2020
Such a well written and satisfying read. The two time periods didn’t annoy like some other books I’ve read bc it wasn’t frequent or every chapter. I like the characters and the back and forth between characters. I gave it 5 stars bc I just can’t think how it could be better.
October 20, 2018
Genealogy is a story that beautifully blends historical and contemporary romance. I read this book from beginning to end in less than a day!
“His heart tightens as the illusion of their proximity shimmers and breaks. They are so far apart, both in space and time. The thousands of miles he swore to bridge with his letters...”
Ali discovers letters written to her great grandmother Alice. Letters that reveal an epic love story. With those letters the author takes us on a journey through time to early 1900’s and gives us a real feel for the time and places.
“Sometimes love burns slowly like a smoldering coal and sometimes it’s a flaming forest fire.”
Woven into this tale is Ali’s story that is a wonderful contemporary romance. It gives us all the feels from heartbreak to humor. A slow burn that had me turning pages and unable put my book down.
-5 Stars!-
-Diane-
“His heart tightens as the illusion of their proximity shimmers and breaks. They are so far apart, both in space and time. The thousands of miles he swore to bridge with his letters...”
Ali discovers letters written to her great grandmother Alice. Letters that reveal an epic love story. With those letters the author takes us on a journey through time to early 1900’s and gives us a real feel for the time and places.
“Sometimes love burns slowly like a smoldering coal and sometimes it’s a flaming forest fire.”
Woven into this tale is Ali’s story that is a wonderful contemporary romance. It gives us all the feels from heartbreak to humor. A slow burn that had me turning pages and unable put my book down.
-5 Stars!-
-Diane-
October 23, 2018
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of Genealogy and even now, weeks later, I still find myself thinking about this beautiful book, its story and its characters. Genealogy is not only a poignant, dare I say epic, love story but also a story of growth and self-discovery. It touching, romantic, bittersweet and swoony. It’s the love stories of two couples that, although separated by 100 years, fit together and around each other without seeming artificial or forced, and draw the reader in completely.
As a history buff, nothing bothers me more than historical settings or situations in fictional books that don't ring true. That is NOT the case here. You can tell this was meticulously researched, and the vivid historical details add a richness and depth to the story that make the settings in the book characters in their own rights, as much as the people are.
The dual timelines weave and connect together seamlessly, bridging the 100 year span that separates them and allowing us modern readers to easily relate to not only our modern contemporaries, but their historical counterparts as well.
And without giving anything away, all I can say is, the last sentence it possibly one of the best-written endings (and most touching) I've read in a very long time. If you're the kind of person who skips ahead to the end of the book to read the last chapter, do yourself a favor and don't do it - let the story unfold organically.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
As a history buff, nothing bothers me more than historical settings or situations in fictional books that don't ring true. That is NOT the case here. You can tell this was meticulously researched, and the vivid historical details add a richness and depth to the story that make the settings in the book characters in their own rights, as much as the people are.
The dual timelines weave and connect together seamlessly, bridging the 100 year span that separates them and allowing us modern readers to easily relate to not only our modern contemporaries, but their historical counterparts as well.
And without giving anything away, all I can say is, the last sentence it possibly one of the best-written endings (and most touching) I've read in a very long time. If you're the kind of person who skips ahead to the end of the book to read the last chapter, do yourself a favor and don't do it - let the story unfold organically.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
October 20, 2018
I was excited how Mae Wood would incorporate the letters in this story and she did it well done. I love the fact that it has a real life inspiration and meant something to the author. Of having some parts of it in my hometown and knowing some history behind that makes it even better. Ali is one of those heroines you can relate to and even her struggle with her career. The ups and downs of her life still connected to the letters.
I admit some parts of the letters were heartbreaking, you don't really know how the two people felt after. But in that the ifs, past happens things wouldn't be the way the future is. Aside from the letters Ali seeks out the stories behind and connections made. It seems to be all fated in a way. Which is quite serendipitous to think.
Everything came together in wonderfully woven story. With bits of history and new beginnings. Mae Wood did good on research and it flowed seamlessly. I loved the background on how this story evolved and the final product. What a love story that started years ago and somehow inspired a new one.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
I admit some parts of the letters were heartbreaking, you don't really know how the two people felt after. But in that the ifs, past happens things wouldn't be the way the future is. Aside from the letters Ali seeks out the stories behind and connections made. It seems to be all fated in a way. Which is quite serendipitous to think.
Everything came together in wonderfully woven story. With bits of history and new beginnings. Mae Wood did good on research and it flowed seamlessly. I loved the background on how this story evolved and the final product. What a love story that started years ago and somehow inspired a new one.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
October 29, 2018
I loved the premise of this book, finding a little piece of history and being absorbed by the story.
I thought this was beautifully written, taking you from past to present and back again through various viewpoints. We see the letters from Elliot to Alice in the early 1900's as they maintained a long distance relationship having met and known one another for such a short time, seeing the obstacles in their way but also the strength of their feelings. I was swept away by the romance of it all.
I liked how the feelings the letters evoked in Ali in the present influenced her choices, how she decided what she was really looking for.
There were some emotional bumps along the way, a story of love and loss, of choices, and the power of friendship and knowing your own worth. A blend of contemporary and historical romance.
4.5 Stars
I thought this was beautifully written, taking you from past to present and back again through various viewpoints. We see the letters from Elliot to Alice in the early 1900's as they maintained a long distance relationship having met and known one another for such a short time, seeing the obstacles in their way but also the strength of their feelings. I was swept away by the romance of it all.
I liked how the feelings the letters evoked in Ali in the present influenced her choices, how she decided what she was really looking for.
There were some emotional bumps along the way, a story of love and loss, of choices, and the power of friendship and knowing your own worth. A blend of contemporary and historical romance.
4.5 Stars
October 20, 2018
Genealogy is a story that beautifully blends historical and contemporary romance. I read this book from beginning to end in less than a day! So touching with perfect touches of humor.
“Sometimes love burns slowly like a smoldering coal and sometimes it’s a flaming forest fire.”
My full review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
“Sometimes love burns slowly like a smoldering coal and sometimes it’s a flaming forest fire.”
My full review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
May 27, 2019
According to the back cover, Wood has written several romance novels prior to this historical fiction. I can see that, as this is a sweet, not too heavy, romance with a historical fiction background. I enjoyed the story, though, but it won't stand out as an amazing read of the year.
Want to read
February 23, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/23/2019)! 🎁
Inspired by real, hundred-year-old love letters.
My great-grandmother's name is bold across the cream envelope, now golden at the seams with age. I can't remember the last time I’ve seen graceful, purposeful handwriting with a fountain pen and not the hasty scrawl of ballpoint.
Alice Hirshhorn, Astoria Hotel, Seattle Washington.
“Letters to Great-grandma Alice,” I say with wonder, tracing my fingers over the faded postmark and foreign stamps.
December 1915. Philippine Islands.
I turn the thick envelope in my palm, slide out the tightly folded pages, and unfold the thin paper, taking care not to tear the letters that were important enough to keep for a century.
My dearest Alice
“Great-grandpa was in the Philippines?” I ask.
“Oh no. Not your great-grandfather,” answers Grammie, her eyes twinkling with her mother’s secrets. “Elliott.”
~~~
At thirty-three and with her future unclear, Ali Waller finds her way home again. A box of long-forgotten love letters written to her great-grandmother holds the unlikely key to Ali finding her new path.
As she tracks down the letter writer and his descendants, Ali learns the magic of love, hope, and resilience.
Told by three characters, and across century and an ocean, Genealogy is an enchanting story about love and loss, taking chances, and embracing the surprises that life brings.
Inspired by real, hundred-year-old love letters.
My great-grandmother's name is bold across the cream envelope, now golden at the seams with age. I can't remember the last time I’ve seen graceful, purposeful handwriting with a fountain pen and not the hasty scrawl of ballpoint.
Alice Hirshhorn, Astoria Hotel, Seattle Washington.
“Letters to Great-grandma Alice,” I say with wonder, tracing my fingers over the faded postmark and foreign stamps.
December 1915. Philippine Islands.
I turn the thick envelope in my palm, slide out the tightly folded pages, and unfold the thin paper, taking care not to tear the letters that were important enough to keep for a century.
My dearest Alice
“Great-grandpa was in the Philippines?” I ask.
“Oh no. Not your great-grandfather,” answers Grammie, her eyes twinkling with her mother’s secrets. “Elliott.”
~~~
At thirty-three and with her future unclear, Ali Waller finds her way home again. A box of long-forgotten love letters written to her great-grandmother holds the unlikely key to Ali finding her new path.
As she tracks down the letter writer and his descendants, Ali learns the magic of love, hope, and resilience.
Told by three characters, and across century and an ocean, Genealogy is an enchanting story about love and loss, taking chances, and embracing the surprises that life brings.
October 23, 2018
Imagine finding love letters written to your great grandmother from your not great grandfather. This is the story of Dr Ali Waller discovering a treasure trove of letters from prior and during World War I. The story is written in 3 POV’s over two timelines. You’ll read the letters between Elliot and Alice and follow their star crossed love story in between present day Ali dealing with all the joys and tribulations of being an almost 40 unmarried professional. Through research she discovers Elliott’s present day descendants and shares Elliott and Alice’s story with them. This book is a sweet, thoughtful read. A perfect book club read, a book safe to share with your teenage daughter or reader grandma. I love Mae Wood’s writing style and author voice.
If you have read Mae before, this book is a departure from the previous 4 books as it is not a steamy romance read, if this is your first Mae Wood book, her back catalog is more contemporary, steamy romance. Some people only read one or the other and it’s important to not be surprised by the differences and judge based on whichever was your first entrée into Ms Wood’s books.
If you have read Mae before, this book is a departure from the previous 4 books as it is not a steamy romance read, if this is your first Mae Wood book, her back catalog is more contemporary, steamy romance. Some people only read one or the other and it’s important to not be surprised by the differences and judge based on whichever was your first entrée into Ms Wood’s books.
October 25, 2018
I fell in love with the premise of this book but was reluctant to start it, for reasons I can't explain. I procrastinated for a couple of weeks before taking the plunge and starting.
Dear reader, I finished it inside 48 hours. Once I started, I couldn't stop. This is a beautiful, gentle peek into a time when romance, courtship and love were a more chaste and reserved affair. The glimpse of an ankle would set pulses racing. A person's standing in life and society was important; being the best version of yourself was a life goal.
Elliott and Alice's courtship, conducted mainly through letters, spanned three years and an entire ocean. Wartime disrupted the flow of communication and forced previously idealistic, romantic people to become practical and seize whatever happiness they could, even if it meant giving up the grand dream.
This book made me swoon and weep in equal measure, and I liked the 21st century comparisons with Ali and Ben running alongside the 100 year old love letters. Even more, the fact that this book was inspired by real life events makes it so much the sweeter. This is a book for eternal romantics everywhere and makes me wish for a box of love letters of my own.
Dear reader, I finished it inside 48 hours. Once I started, I couldn't stop. This is a beautiful, gentle peek into a time when romance, courtship and love were a more chaste and reserved affair. The glimpse of an ankle would set pulses racing. A person's standing in life and society was important; being the best version of yourself was a life goal.
Elliott and Alice's courtship, conducted mainly through letters, spanned three years and an entire ocean. Wartime disrupted the flow of communication and forced previously idealistic, romantic people to become practical and seize whatever happiness they could, even if it meant giving up the grand dream.
This book made me swoon and weep in equal measure, and I liked the 21st century comparisons with Ali and Ben running alongside the 100 year old love letters. Even more, the fact that this book was inspired by real life events makes it so much the sweeter. This is a book for eternal romantics everywhere and makes me wish for a box of love letters of my own.
October 25, 2018
You need to read this book. You need to fall in love with Alice, Elliott, Ali, XZY, Grammie, ABCD. (Letters for names as to not spoil)
This book spans 100 yrs and multiple couples. It boggles my mind what just 100 yrs ago looked like. What love looked like, what distance can do to a couple, what we take for granted today (communication and transportation).
We meet Ali when she is cleaning out her Grammie's house in prep for moving her to an assisted living facility. She comes across love letters written to her Great-Grandmother back in 1916. OH these love letters. My heart swooned for the love Elliott has for Alice. We get his (Elliott) POV. What a man. You want things differently, you want them HARD. But you know there would be no story if it went where you want it to. You have to trust Mae, and I know it's hard, so freaking hard, but do trust her. She will take you through the wringer. Not #uglycry wringer, but very very close. Your anger will rise, you will message her with threats of harm for the hurt. But she will ask you to trust her and I'm asking you to trust me in trusting her. Ok I feel like Joey from Friends writing Monica and Chandlers vows.
There are good times, there are sad times, there are angry times.
You will not be able to read fast enough to see where the story goes, you'll want to speed read, but also slow down at the same time to savor this amazing story.
~I volunteered to read an advance copy.
This book spans 100 yrs and multiple couples. It boggles my mind what just 100 yrs ago looked like. What love looked like, what distance can do to a couple, what we take for granted today (communication and transportation).
We meet Ali when she is cleaning out her Grammie's house in prep for moving her to an assisted living facility. She comes across love letters written to her Great-Grandmother back in 1916. OH these love letters. My heart swooned for the love Elliott has for Alice. We get his (Elliott) POV. What a man. You want things differently, you want them HARD. But you know there would be no story if it went where you want it to. You have to trust Mae, and I know it's hard, so freaking hard, but do trust her. She will take you through the wringer. Not #uglycry wringer, but very very close. Your anger will rise, you will message her with threats of harm for the hurt. But she will ask you to trust her and I'm asking you to trust me in trusting her. Ok I feel like Joey from Friends writing Monica and Chandlers vows.
There are good times, there are sad times, there are angry times.
You will not be able to read fast enough to see where the story goes, you'll want to speed read, but also slow down at the same time to savor this amazing story.
~I volunteered to read an advance copy.
September 6, 2020
Nice read
I’m not sure what I was expecting but this turned out to be a nice, easy read. Not a romance, but a love story nonetheless. Beautiful love letters, a bit of heartbreak and well written.
I’m not sure what I was expecting but this turned out to be a nice, easy read. Not a romance, but a love story nonetheless. Beautiful love letters, a bit of heartbreak and well written.
July 19, 2022
What a beautiful story !
October 27, 2018
This is an amazing story. At times it’s so very sad but hang on because soon you’ll be laughing at the dialogue between Ben and Ali. This is such a new and unique story. The characters of Alice and Elliott are so well written. I wanted them together even while knowing it couldn’t be.
Resilient is a good description for Elliott. A man with such good intentions lives with so much disappointment. He surely was a survivor but my heart hurts for him.
Alice was a different type of survivor. She chose a life where she would be happy but would always wonder what if. I’m glad she made the choice she did and still it saddens me.
Lives full of what ifs. It’s hard to think the choices we make today could have repercussions a hundred years from now. This story is so very different from anything I’ve read. Definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
Resilient is a good description for Elliott. A man with such good intentions lives with so much disappointment. He surely was a survivor but my heart hurts for him.
Alice was a different type of survivor. She chose a life where she would be happy but would always wonder what if. I’m glad she made the choice she did and still it saddens me.
Lives full of what ifs. It’s hard to think the choices we make today could have repercussions a hundred years from now. This story is so very different from anything I’ve read. Definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
May 1, 2020
This turned put to be a very sweet surprise. It really picked up at about 50% and I loved Ben and his relationship with Ali and the parallels between their meeting and Elliot and Alice. 4.5 stars
January 26, 2021
Lightweight, enjoyable story. Just what I needed.
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