The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

One of those rare novels that hooks you from the very first page and never lets go.

Told entirely through letters, emails and unsent notes, Virginia Evans' wonderful debut introduces us to Sybil Van Antwerp: intelligent, funny, stubborn, occasionally infuriating, and utterly unforgettable. Through her correspondence, we are given an intimate glimpse into her entire life – full of grief, friendship, family tensions, missed opportunities and unexpected connections.

Each letter reveals another layer of Sybil and the people in her life, creating a cast of characters who feel incredibly real. There are moments of great sadness and loss along the way, but these are balanced alongside instances of genuine warmth, wit and hope. The people who enter into correspondence with Sybil find their lives enriched by knowing her, and the same is true for the reader. Spending time with Sybil will leave you wishing you had more.

At Teasel & Skylark, we were especially drawn to the novel's celebration of the written word. In a world of hurried texts and fleeting online exchanges, The Correspondent reminds us of the thoughtfulness, intimacy and permanence of a letter carefully composed and lovingly received. It is a book about communication, but also about connection — and how the right words can bridge years of distance.

The Correspondent is a beautifully written, absorbing page-turner with characters who shine off the page and is highly recommended.

Richard