Dear Eliza

Ugh, losing a parent is so hard, and it's something I worry about often. I think I'll definitely come back to this book when the inevitable happens, but it had me in tears even though I haven't had this experience.

Eliza Levinger just lost her dad, and lost her mom 10 years earlier. Her aunt gives her a letter helping Eliza navigate the loss of her parents. I thought it showed a beautiful portrayal of grief and how everyone handles it differently; reminding us there is no right way to do so. This could easily be a book club pick, but just be extra sensitive to the members in your book club and whether or not they've lost a loved one. It might not be the right timing to read this book.

Thank you to netgalley, the author and publisher for this arc in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein tells the story of Eliza Levinger, who receives a letter from her mother 10 years after her death and days after the death of her father. The story follows Eliza as she processes her grief and the information in the letter.

This was a good novel that I read quickly. The characters are well-written and the story moves at a good pace. It is a good look at how secrets, loss, and grief are handled by the characters.


Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this book.

Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein is a thought-provoking novel that left me thinking about the characters for days after I finished the novel.

Eliza's father dies and her maternal aunt gives her a letter from her long-dead mother that she was to give to Eliza only after her father's death. The information contained in the letter changes Eliza's life forever and the way that she views the world and her relationships.

Having lost both parents ten years apart, it is incredibly easy for me to commiserate with Eliza as she deals with grief, the shock of the letter, and trying to fight her way through hurt, anger, and sadness. Eliza's relationship with her brother and his wife was very relatable as well. Watching Eliza struggle with what she wants career-wise and romantic relationship-wise was incredibly interesting. I won't reveal any spoilers, but I was rooting for our main love interest from their first encounter in this book.

I've not read Ms. Stein's other works, but I plan on rectifying that immediately! If you're looking for a thoughtful, well-plotted book with likable and not-so-likable characters, this one is for you.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this book in consideration of an honest opinion

Dear Eliza examines how family ties unravel when the loss of a parent exposes a shocking secret. Fresh, modern and relatable, this is a perfectly-paced exploration of loss, love and learning how to carry on when your world is turned upside down. Brimming with just the right mix of humor and heart, Dear Eliza is sure to be a book club favorite.

"Dear Eliza" is a poignant and emotionally gripping novel that explores the complexities of loss, family dynamics, and the unexpected twists life throws our way. Ten years after the devastating loss of her mother to cancer, Eliza Levinger's carefully constructed life is shattered once again when she receives a mysterious letter from her deceased mother.

The narrative unfolds with a perfect blend of heart-wrenching moments and unexpected revelations. Eliza's journey is raw and authentic, as she navigates through the turmoil brought on by the letter, which unravels long-held secrets and challenges her relationships with her family and friends.

The characters are richly developed, each with their own struggles and flaws, making them relatable and complelling. Eliza's internal conflict, torn between her desire for independence and her need for connection, is palpable, drawing readers into her world with empathy and understanding.

The dynamics between Eliza and her brother, stepmother, and best friend are intricately woven, showcasing the complexities of familial bonds and the impact of secrets on relationships. As Eliza grapples with the fallout of the letter, her journey of self-discovery is both heartbreaking and uplifting as she learns to confront her past and embrace the possibility of a new beginning.

One of the most captivating aspects of the novel is the slow-burn romance between Eliza and Josh, her brother's best friend and her high school crush. Their chemistry is palpable, adding an extra layer of tension and emotion to the story. Their relationship unfolds organically, filled with moments of vulnerability and growth, ultimately offering hope and healing for both characters.

Overall, "Dear Eliza" is a beautifully written tale of love, loss, and resilience. With its interesting characters, heartfelt storytelling, and unexpected twists, it's a must-read for anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction with depth and emotion.

I just finished Dear Eliza and I'm going to miss these characters!

This novel skillfully examines how family ties unravel when the loss of a parent exposes a shocking secret that sends a young woman reeling. Timely and relatable, Dear Eliza is a perfectly-paced exploration of loss, love, and learning how to carry on when your world is turned upside down.

If I'd had more time, I'd have read it straight through. If you loved Andrea Stein's Typecast, a character makes a fun cameo appearance in this story.

Brimming with just the right mix of humor and heart, Dear Eliza is sure to be a book club favorite. Definitely lots to think about and discuss!

This is lovely novel, about death and rebirth. Eliza who lost her beloved mother at 16 is coping with the death of her semi-estranged father when she receives a letter penned by her dead mother that reveals a long held secret. Eliza has to examine everything she felt about her mother, brother and father. As she searches for a new identity, she is supported by her brother’s longtime best friend, Josh. So, there is a lot that is obvious and predictable, it’s so engaging that as a reader, I didn’t mind.

I must say that I really felt the author missed the DNA boat. I can’t believe that a situation this complex, involving paternity and inheritance wouldn’t have had DNA tests thrown into the mix.

Eliza is a lovely, well described heroine, emblematic of millennials. She is surrounded by a very likable supporting group. Stein has created a charming novel which totally enchanted me as a reader.

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to review this delightful, heart tugging novel.

I really enjoyed reading Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein. Everyone deals with grief differently and Eliza’s character was real and honest and relatable. I couldn’t put it down!

Thank you to Girl Friday Productions, NetGalley, and Andrea J. Stein for the complementary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

It’s never easy to lose a parent but when you lose a parent before you have a chance to build (or rebuild) your relationship with that person, you’re always left wondering, what if?

“Dear Eliza” by Andrea Stein handles loss and the complexities of family dynamics in a thoughtful and heartfelt way. Eliza is reeling over the sudden loss of her dad, Jack, when her maternal aunt gives her a letter from her mom, Laura (who passed away when Eliza was a teen). The letter not only hints that Laura may not be the perfect person Eliza made her out to be, but that the man she has called “Dad” is not her biological father. Instead, her mother had an affair and the letter reveals someone else in Eliza’s dad.

There is a lot more going on in this novel, including the antagonistic relationship Eliza has with her stepmother, Carol, which partially explains why Eliza grew apart from her dad after her mom’s death. Meanwhile, Carol is contesting the will, arguing that Eliza should not inherit—which could put Eliza against her older brother, Scott. Then, there is the burgeoning romance between Eliza and Scott’s close friend, Josh. And the story of Eliza reaching out to her biological dad and deciding whether she wants a relationship with him. But Stein does a good job juggling the different plots without confusing the reader. A few of the resolutions were a bit convenient but still believable. I also appreciated that this novel stayed in a single POV. Too many novels distract the reader with multiple narratives. Eliza was a bit too self-absorbed but you could not help but empathize with someone who had the world as she knew it yanked out from under her. This is a great sophomore effort from Andres Stein.

Four out of five stars.

Thank you very much to the author, Girl Friday Productions and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel.

Dear Eliza was a fast paced enjoyable read. I loved the realistic dilemmas with love interests, experiencing grief and finding other possibilities. I was compelled to keep the enjoyment going til the end!

Thank you to Net Galley and Girl Friday for the opportunity to read Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein, a lovely, respectfully written story. It touched my heart.

"Dear Eliza" is a heartrending journey through loss, family, and life's surprises. 💌💔 Eliza's world is upended when she receives a mysterious letter from her late mother, revealing secrets that challenge everything she knows. 🕵️‍♀️ The story unfolds with gripping emotion and unexpected twists, as Eliza navigates relationships and self-discovery. 💔👩‍👦‍👦 The characters are rich and relatable, their struggles adding depth to the narrative. 💪📖 And amidst it all, a slow-burn romance ignites between Eliza and her high school crush, Josh, adding layers of tension and hope. 💕✨ "Dear Eliza" is a beautifully crafted tale of love, resilience, and second chances. 📚💖

This is a good book about family and grief and moving on after.
Eliza doesn't deal well with the news from this letter from her mother first. But with the support of her brother and her friends she finds her way again.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC.

This was a lovely story. It was definitely an emotional read, as it follows the heroine in the days after her father’s death, as a letter from her deceased mother rocks her world. There are multiple themes involving challenges to conquer, hope, romance, and familial bonds.

This is a touching and beautifully written story about a woman's search for her biological father, which leads her on a journey to finding herself. It balances the heaviness of grief with the lightness of love, creating an uplifting tale without ignoring the deep emotions involved. The book's pace is just right, mixing humor with the serious themes of dealing with long-held family secrets and understanding what family truly means. It's an engaging and heartfelt read that really hits home.

I really enjoyed this book overall. The main character, Eliza, was well rounded, flawed, and likable. The love interest, Josh, was very sweet and I really enjoyed their friendship throughout the book. I really wish I had been able to see Josh’s POV, because it would have helped to build up their romantic relationship. I didn’t love some of the side characters throughout the story, but at least they got better right at the end.

A sweet read about grief, family, and love.

Eliza's mom passed away a decade ago and she is still having a hard time. Now, her father has also passed away, and despite their difficult relationship, Eliza feels lost. To complicate matters, Eliza receives a letter from her mother exposing a secret that will change Eliza’s future and cause her to question her past. This was an enjoyable read with some surprises, a delightful romance subplot between Eliza and her former crush, and a satisfying conclusion.

Thank you very much to Girl Friday Productions and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.

Ten years ago, Eliza’s mom passed away from cancer. Before she died, her mother wrote a letter, sealed it, and gave it to her sister—Eliza’s dear Aunt Claude—with instructions to deliver it to Eliza upon the death of her dad.

And now Eliza’s father has suddenly died.

When Eliza reads the mysterious letter, she—and the rest of her family—are blindsided by its contents. As Eliza leads the development team at a NYC non-profit, she must remain strong, putting one foot in front of the other to finalize plans for the upcoming educational gala.

But how?

It’s hard for her to process her grief while stewing over her mother’s words. She stumbles through her days, not knowing who to trust and rethinking all her relationships.

Is her beloved mother the person she always thought her to be? What did her dad know of the letter’s contents? And why burden Eliza with this secret information?

No one understands her, can even imagine what she’s going through. Except perhaps her brother’s best friend, Josh ...

A delightful read with characters readers will root for!

So good!! Eliza's parents are both dead and her mother, 10 years ago, left her a letter that wasn't to be given to her until her dad dies. In it she finds a shocking secret.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this arc in exchange for an honest review!

Eliza’s world is shattered when she’s handed a letter from her long-deceased mother soon after her father’s death. She struggles to come to terms with grief, disappointment, and anger over her mother’s devastating secret, all while juggling deadlines at work, a romantic interest or two, and sticky family relationships. Along the way, Eliza discovers unexpected truths about love, family, and forgiveness. Author Andrea Stein has written a heartbreaking, heart-mending story in DEAR ELIZA, and I could have happily spent another two hundred pages with Eliza, her friend Mo, brother Scott, and romantic interest Josh. I hope Stein is at work on another novel, because I’m looking forward to reading more from her!

Thank you to NetGalley for making this book available in exchange for an honest opinion.

Great summer read! A interesting story following a young women, Eliza, as she navigates loss and the discovery of a family secret that turns her world upside down! Unique story with good character development. The story line was not too predictable but also not too confusing or convoluted. I really enjoyed the main character, Eliza and found the “will they won’t they” aspect of the book to be done very well.

Thank you to Andrea J. Stein for arranging for me to receive a copy of the book in exchange for a review.

Eliza’s father has just passed away. As she begins this new chapter in her life, she faces it without either of her parents, both of whom have now passed away. Fortunately, she has a close relationship with her brother, Scott, who supports her as she moves forward. Eliza is also close with her aunt, who gives her a letter from her mother, Laura. The letter, meant for Eliza to read after her father's passing, reveals a shocking secret: her father is not her biological father. Instead, her mother had an affair and reconnected with her first love at a high school reunion.

The book is fast-paced and hooks you quickly from the start. I really enjoyed it and found it hard to put down. Books with Jewish representation always appeal to me, and Eliza’s character was particularly endearing. She is emotional, caring, and sometimes a bit of a mess, which makes her easy to connect with because we all feel like that at times.

I highly recommend this book. It’s a quick read with a sweet romance, but it also delves into themes of friendship, relationships, and coping with grief.

Eliza is such a fascinating character that I believe there’s potential for another book exploring her life’s direction. Even though the story ties together well, her intriguing emotional depth suggests that continuing her journey in another book would be compelling and interesting.

In her acknowledgments, the author mentions that there’s “universality in grief” and this book proves exactly that. I loved the way “past” and “present” grief was intertwined in this novel. The book touches on the constant guilt the often accompanies grief which was very healing. The way it dwells on the fact that losing someone often brings to surface previous losses so Eliza in this case was mourning different people simultaneously. On top of that, she has to navigate tricky family dynamics while also grieving the possibility of new relationships. This book is for those people who grieve silently, have constant internal conversations, and are terrified of the constant fragility of relationships.

I lost my Mom 2 years ago before I turned 30 and let me tell you, that was one of my biggest fears. Reading this book really touched my heart and I felt as though I was Eliza and that my Mom wrote to me. I know everyone handles grief differently and if I would have tried to read this book even a year ago, I might not have been able to do it, but now it felt like the closure I needed. I would definitely recommend this book to my patrons.

I really enjoyed this book! Once I started it I literally could not put it down. The plot was really interesting, with grief, secrets, and family trauma at the forefront. I think this plot could have really been mishandled by someone else, but Stein did a fantastic job at executing this. The characters within this all felt well written and incredibly real, with motivations that made sense. I really enjoyed the romance within, it was one that I saw coming early on but was really happy with how it turned out. Overall, I was so impressed with this book, it was such an enjoyable read

Thank you to NetGalley and Girl Friday Productions for allowing me to read an ARC of Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein, in exchange for my honest review.

I really liked this book! I liked the "ah-ha!" moments Eliza had as she dealt with her grief. The characters were well-written, with realistic thoughts, reactions, and behavior. I felt the ending was a little abrupt; however, it all tied together neatly.

I look forward to reading more by Ms.Stein.

I really enjoyed Dear Eliza. It was very well researched and well written and I loved the way Ms. Stein explored the theme of family relationships and how they shift and get redefined, especially after significant life events. Dear Eliza hooked me from the beginning and kept me interested to the very end. The love story plot line was also well done and enjoyable. This was an excellent second novel. Readers who were awaiting Ms. Stein’s sophomore novel will not be disappointed!

Andrea Stein really puts a voice to her characters and draws the reader into this evocative tale of heartache, grief, family dynamics and complex feelings.

When Eliza’s father dies unexpectedly, she is left without a parent in her life. But when her aunt hands her a letter, written by her deceased mother long ago, Eliza must come to terms with a whole new sense of who she is. Her once peaceful and orderly life takes the new shape of confusion, emotional trauma and so much heartache.

Eliza is a wonderful character, written with such eloquence and understanding of the grief process. This book will take you on the journey of grief with Eliza and have you turning page after page in the hopes of a happy ending.

Thank you, NetGalley and Girl Friday Products for the eARC of this 5-star read.

hank you to NetGalley and Flashpoint for the arc.

This was a story about grief, what constitutes a family, and how to move forward when faced with life's complexities when one is in their 20s. The main character is Eliza Levinger, a young woman living in New York City, whose father has just died. Immediately after the burial and shiva, Eliza is given a letter from her mother (via her mother's sister), who had died ten years ago from cancer. The contents of the letter create major upheavals in Eliza's life.

Eliza is still processing her mother's death, and while trying to absorb the impact of her father's death, she's faced with antagonism from both her brother and her stepmother. Eliza's job as the program director of a nonprofit creates a diversion from her relationship issues, specifically since the nonprofit's largest fundraising event is taking place in a few weeks. Eliza juggles all of these matters, amongst the ramifications of her mother's letter, with anger and sadness, but she's resolved to try to work things out herself, and not be a burden to her brother, her best friend Mo, and Josh, her brother's best friend, who also happens to be Eliza's high school crush.

Eliza has lost the ability to trust anything while working through her grief over the years, holding back on showing her true self to anyone to avoid getting hurt if that person(s) disappears from her life. But she slowly realizes that she can't handle everything on her own, and that she needs to open herself up to others, namely her brother and her friends.

I thought this was an interesting story of someone handling their grief over the death of loved ones, but I felt it dragged in certain areas, primarily in the descriptions of Eliza's work environment, and the big fundraiser. The author could have minimized those sections because I thought they took away from the story.

I did like how the author, Andrea Stein, dealt with Eliza's relationship with her brother, Mo, and Josh, because the dialogue was honest and heartfelt. I could totally see how each character interacted with Eliza. Overall, it was an interesting book, albeit sad. But the ending was hopeful.

thank you for sharing this book. I liked it. I liked Eliza and Josh very much. I thought it was a little slow and repetitive.

Dear Eliza is a lovely book a book about family grief healing.Wonderful writing an author I will be following.and recommending.#netgalley #girlfriday.

First of all, thank you to Andrea for the ebook! I’m happy I took the chance to read this one because I really enjoyed it!

This book follows Eliza, who 10 years after the loss of her mom is now grieving the loss of her dad. When she receives a letter that was written by her mom with the intent to be given to her after her father‘s passing, her world is turned upside down. Personally, I have had the fortune of not losing a parent, but I felt that Eliza‘s journey of grief was very relatable. And although this book is mainly centred around grief, I found it to be hopeful and romantic as well. Make sure to add it to your fall TBR!

Pick this one up if you enjoy:
-family drama
-brother’s best friend as a love interest
-heartwarming stories
-sibling relationships

Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein is a emotionally engaging novel that looks at grief and it's effect on family members of different ages, the damage secrets can do, the importance of family and friendship, and the overcoming of life's challenges through the help and support of those connections. Beneath it all is a romance that is biding its time to flourish.
Stein has crafted a well-written, compelling novel, using flashbacks to gradually explain the events of the past and their effects in the present. It's a tale of family, love, and forgiveness that is sure to resonate with readers.
I'm glad to have received an ARC of #DearEliza from #NetGalley.

This was a slow burn for me. I immediately felt a connection to Eliza as we both lost our moms young and our dads remarried quickly. It took me longer to warn up to her as a person, which makes sense with all the walls she had built up around her. I was so angry with her mom for dropping this bombshell in her lap when she had just lost her father. A new identity followed by her stepmother contesting her inheritance and her brother's wife asking her not to burden him with her issues would be hard for anyone. I grew to feel for the burden of it all on Eliza's shoulders and cried through the last quarter of this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Andrea J Stein for the ARC of Dear Eliza.

Such a great read! Highly recommend this one.

Many thanks to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

Dear Eliza is a gorgeous novel that delves into the complexities of grief and what truly makes a family. I found the character of Eliza to be so real and believable, as she navigates the death of her father and the ripple effects of the letter from her long-deceased mother. There is so much loss and yet so much love and hope within this story, and I found myself completely immersed in Eliza's journey. It's fascinating because of course I wanted to know what would happen, but also found myself wondering what I might do if confronted by similar circumstances. Questions about how much we should venerate people after they're gone, and how to hold both love and anger towards a person (especially after they're gone) make this a powerful and moving novel.

"Dear Eliza" by Andrea J. Stein chronicles the life of Eliza Levinger, who grapples with the lingering impact of her mother's death a decade prior. As she navigates the challenges of adulthood, maintaining a stable job and a casual relationship, her sense of stability is abruptly disrupted by the unexpected loss of her father. During the shiva, her aunt presents her with a letter from her mother, which is intended to be opened only after her father's demise. The revelations contained within this letter serve to upheave Eliza's life, straining her connections with her brother, stepmother, and her best friend, Mo.

The narrative delves into significant themes such as grief, family dynamics, and the journey of personal growth as Eliza confronts the startling truths unveiled in the correspondence. In the midst of her turmoil, she discovers unexpected solace in her brother's best friend, Josh, who rekindles feelings she believed had long been suppressed. Eliza's path is characterized by a rich tapestry of emotions, encompassing anger and confusion, alongside moments of tenderness and levity, as she endeavors to rebuild her capacity to trust and confront her sorrow.

Stein's narrative is both engaging and relatable, immersing readers in Eliza's emotional odyssey and the complexities of her interpersonal relationships. The text not only illuminates the challenges inherent in coping with loss but also celebrates the vibrancy of life and the bonds we cultivate. With its intricate character development and heartfelt storytelling, "Dear Eliza" offers a profound exploration of navigating grief and underscores the critical importance of rediscovering joy and connection in the aftermath of tragedy.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance review copy in exchange for my honest review.

This book was an emotional examination of grief, personal identity, family dynamics and friendship. Eliza was dealt a really sad and difficult hand in life, and the people around her didn't always offer the best support. I felt so sad for her and wanted to give her a hug! I was absolutely disgusted by the actions of her step-mother, and felt so angry with her throughout the book. I always feel that when a book evokes such strong emotions about a character, it means it's written very well, and this book is no exception! The only thing I wished had been different was the ending. The relationship between Josh and Eliza was the very definition of slow burn (it also wasn't meant to be the focal point of the story, so I was ok with the slowness of it) but then I felt like the ending was rushed. I would have liked to see a few more chapters to really flesh out what happened between the characters! But all in all, I thought it was a wonderful book with a main character I cared about so much.

Dear Eliza is the journey of Eliza, who immediately after her fathers death, receives a letter from her late mother confessing that her biological father is not in fact who she believed him to be all her life.

Her usually stable life flips into turmoil as she comes to terms with the bombshell and tries to reconcile her identity with the news.

Stein’s writing is lovely. It’s full of heart with a sprinkle of subtle humour. It’s a very enjoyable book.

I initially was concerned this would be a formulaic romance, but I was happily surprised. This explores grief, family dynamics, and opening your heart.
Grief can also be complicated and different for each person, which we see with Eliza's brother.

A secret is discovered after the death of their father, with whom Eliza had a complicated relationship. Her mother passed when she was young, so she held a sort of idolized memory of her mom.

As Eliza tries to get her life in order, maneuver through discoveries and grief, and navigate changing relationships, she will come to terms with everything as she knew it, and what might be reality.

What a really nice book. I loved it.
Thank you to Gal Friday Productions and NetGalley for a digital ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley and Girl Friday Productions for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

In Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein, readers are drawn into the tumultuous life of Eliza Levinger, whose world is upended by the death of her father and a letter from her long-deceased mother. The letter reveals a shocking family secret, unraveling Eliza's carefully constructed life and forcing her to confront her family's hidden past and her own unresolved grief. Stein’s portrayal of Eliza’s emotional journey is both raw and heartfelt, capturing the complexities of grief, betrayal, and self-discovery with sensitivity and depth.

The novel deftly balances the heavy themes of loss and family secrets with a glimmer of romance, as Eliza finds solace in her brother’s best friend, Josh. Their budding relationship provides a hopeful counterpoint to Eliza’s tumultuous internal struggles and family conflicts. Stein's writing is engaging and relatable, making Eliza’s journey through grief and personal upheaval both compelling and authentic.

While some readers may find the combination of family drama and romance a bit formulaic, Dear Eliza stands out for its emotional resonance and character-driven narrative. The novel offers a poignant exploration of how family secrets can reshape our understanding of ourselves and those we love, making it a touching and worthwhile read for fans of contemporary fiction that delves into the heart of human experience.

Received ARC through NetGalley

I loved this, I was gripped from the start and read it in one sitting.
Eliza’s character was immediately compelling and felt so relatable you can’t help but root for her from the get go.

I just wish there was more!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the EPUB in exchange of an honest review.
Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein is novel that explores grief, family ties and personal growth. Ten years after her mother’s death, Eliza Levinger’s world is turned upside down by a letter from her dead mother, that was revealed by her aunt after her father’s sudden passing.

Stein’s writing is heartfelt and engaging, drawing readers into Eliza’s emotional journey. The author is so good at balancing heavy themes like loss and forgiveness with moments of hope and love. The characters are relatable and likable making it easy to root for them and to sympathize with their struggles.

I highlight recommend this if you’re looking for a heartwarming and compelling story that doesn’t shy away from conflict and grief.

Eliza's mom died of cancer when she was 16 and and now 10 years later her dad has died suddenly. After Eliza's dad's funeral, her aunt Claude gives her a letter that her mother wrote before she died but didn't want Eliza to read until after her father's death. The shocking details of the letter turn Eliza's life upside down and make her question everything she thought she knew about her family and herself.

While Eliza is trying to navigate her grief and process the shocking information revealed in her mother's letter, she is also managing a busy workload at her non-profit job and turmoil in her personal relationships. Her brother is grieving and angry with Eliza's choices, her stepmother wants to disinherit her and her best friend doesn't understand what she's going through - it seems the only person she can depend on is her brother's best friend, Josh, who she had a crush on in high school.

Dear Eliza is a well-written story of a young woman coping with grief whose experience will especially resonate with anyone who has lost a parent. The book explores grief, identity and a range of personal relationships (parent/child, sibling, friendship and romantic) and although it's primarily about Eliza learning to cope with her grief, there is also a sweet, slow-burn romance side plot that is a nice addition. The subject matter may seem heavy but it's a feel-good story that will tug at your heartstrings and have you rooting for Eliza to get her happy ending!

Thank you to NetGalley, Girl Friday Productions and Andrea J. Stein for sending a digital ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

I have been dying to read Dear Eliza since I downloaded it. I absolutely loved Typecast so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read and provide feedback.
Dear Eliza did not disappoint, the story was so well told. I felt the emotions that Eliza felt, found myself angry with Scott and Maren for what seemed like a lack of support. And empathized with Eliza around her feelings for her dad and stepmother. The storyline was so believable - the intricacy of familial relationships, the belief that our parents had never been young or made bad decisions and the real life struggles of managing relationships while wanting to protect oneself from devastating hurts.
Andrea has once again written a story from the heart, with characters that are not perfect but are relatable.

Really enjoyed this heartfelt novel about loss, family, and love. The author did a fantastic job of writing the complex character, Eliza (LOVED the nickname E). She guarded her heart in a believable way. I appreciated the lack of cliches that often are used to describe the grieving/healing process. Eliza came off as genuine; her arc was a vulnerable example of grief. I was hooked from the beginning.

An emotional journey . Eliza just lost her father an her aunt gives her a letter fror her dead mother who died 10 years ago that tells her that the man who always called father is not her biological one . No one can understand her exept from Josh her brother's best friend and her first crush .
I received this book from netgalley , the author and the publicer as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .

When Eliza is given a letter from her late mother, to be opened after her father’s death, her life is thrown into turmoil. She finds out that in fact, she was fathered by another man. As she works through her emotions and subsequent events, she gradually learns more about her parent’s marriage and about why a teenage friend appeared to dump her. The process of dealing with all of this leads her to a better place in her relationships. This book was beautifully written and I enjoyed my journey with these characters. Initially I thought it was a mean thing for her mother to do, but ultimately it lead to healing for Eliza and a chance for new beginnings. Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book to read and review.

Eliza’s struggle to reconcile her past and present, amidst family conflicts and personal disappointments, is depicted with raw honesty and sensitivity. The writing captures her vulnerability and resilience, making her journey toward healing and trust compelling. Her evolving relationship with Josh, her high school crush, adds a layer of hope and romance to the narrative. This novel beautifully blends the complexities of family and self-discovery, offering a heartfelt and engaging read for anyone navigating their own path through loss and change.

A bitter-sweet tale showing how love and loss affects us all differently; and how to cope without the people you used to rely on to guide you through difficult times.

Eliza is doing the best she can after receiving a life changing letter after her Fathers funeral from her 10 years long deceased Mother (no she hasn’t returned from the dead).

In the letter, she learns news about her life she didn’t expect, and she has to navigate through what to do next without hurting herself or others around her.

A beautifully written, easy to follow novel. A necessary book about life, loss and reminded me to make the most of every moment.

I would add this to you TBR when it’s released!

I adored this moving story of grief, siblings, friendship, and love. Eliza has so many reasons to be afraid of love and losing even more people in her life, but I admired the way she persevered in finding answers and a measure of acceptance for herself. Josh is an amazing source of comfort and stability for her and I enjoyed watching their relationship bloom. Andrea does a great job of handling grief and all the confusing emotions that came with a difficult revelation with sensitivity and I liked that she wasn't afraid to explore them and work through them. A truly beautiful novel that will leave you smiling.

This was a beautifully layered family drama that draws you right into the complexities of grief. After the passing of her father, Eliza receives a letter from her late mother holding a major bombshell, shaking the very foundation of her identity.

With her inheritance at risk and her relationship with her brother placed in the middle, I was so eager to see how everything would unfold. I loved seeing her navigate such a complex situation, with her already conflicted feelings of grief further tested. It’s an incredibly unfair position she’s placed in, and with no one to turn to for clear answers, I could truly feel Eliza’s isolation.

But it’s not all heavy—there’s a sweet, slow-burn romance with her brother’s best friend that I adored. He’s her comfort, always there to provide hope in the midst of all the chaos. It was such a heartwarming contrast to the rest of the drama, and it felt super natural and genuine.

This was an engaging story filled with wonderfully crafted characters who feel like real people. I’ve had this author’s first book, Typecast, on my TBR since its release, and I’m so glad I finally gave her writing a try. I'm definitely a fan!

Ten years ago, sixteen-year-old Eliza’s world as she knew it was shattered when her mother passed away following a long battle with cancer. Now at twenty-six-years-old, Eliza finds her world turned upside down once more when her dad suddenly passes away and a mysterious letter from her mother appears with strict instructions to read only after her father’s death. The comfortably predictable, keep-everyone-an-arm’s-length-away life she has worked meticulously to build over the last decade is completely upended by the bombshell of information revealed in the letter and every relationship is left wavering in its wake. Her brother struggles to support her as he faces his own grief, her best friend doesn’t seem to understand how she feels for the first time, and her high school crush suddenly reappears as an unexpected ally. With secrets exposed and emotions raw, Eliza is forced to confront not only the impact of loss on her life, but also the fact that perhaps one’s parents are more complex humans than we, as children, are willing to acknowledge.

This book had it all - complex characters and even more complex relationship dynamics, grief, forgiveness, self discovery, and a sprinkling of love/romance. I was drawn in from the very beginning and found it hard to put down! It was well paced and though the story line centered on heavy emotions/subject matter, the author masterfully wove in supporting characters and other aspects of Eliza's life in a way that brought depth to what is simply a story of how relationships unravel in the face of grief and exposed family secrets. I enjoyed getting to know all the characters with their respective flaws and walking alongside Eliza as she fought to find herself after enduring yet another one of life’s crushing blows. The slow burn of the romance was great, though the open door scene in the last chapters of the book felt a little out of place in a book that otherwise was low-to-no spice. However, if you prefer to avoid such scenes, it can be easily skipped without missing any of the plot. If you enjoy themes of self-discovery, complex family dynamics, friendship, the brevity of life, and deeply emotional story telling, this is worth picking up! I certainly will be adding Andrea Stein's other novel to my TBR list.

✅SFTM (Safe For Tara’s Mom): Mild language, one open door/spicy scene that can easily be skipped without losing the plot

A special thank you to NetGalley, Flashpoint Publications, and especially to Andrea Stein for the honor of reading this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest, thoughtful review 🤍

How many of us grieving daughters would give anything to hear from our late mothers one last time? What if that meant hearing news that upended everything we thought we knew about ourselves?

Eliza Levinger was only sixteen when her mother died of cancer. Ten years later, Eliza certainly never expected to hear from her late mother again in a mysterious letter she receives from her Aunt Claude shortly after her father, Jack, dies unexpectedly. The letter has explicit instructions for Eliza to read only after her father dies. However, as surprised as Eliza is to receive a letter from her mother ten years after her death at her father’s shiva, nothing can be more shocking than the revelations the letter contains. Suddenly, Eliza’s older brother is upset with her, her stepmother wants to disinherit her, and she’s finding herself growing closer to a former high school crush she’s fought hard to forget about.

Dear Eliza explores the complexities of grief, the various definitions of family, and the power of putting yourself first. I strongly connected to Eliza’s feelings of dissonance during shiva (the Jewish obligation for mourning certain family members such as parents), and highly suspect I would also be vulnerable to some of the self-sabotaging behaviors Eliza experiences if I were in my 20’s versus 41. One minor detail that resonated was Eliza lost her mother in May. Samesies, and can confirm that is a total crap month to lose your mom (spoiler: the other eleven months suck, too).

I truly loved watching Eliza’s growth and I’m a sucker for stories about found families.

CW: death of parents, rotten stepmother, complicated grief

Thank you to NetGalley and Girl Friday and Flashpoint for this wonderful arc!

This book exceeded my initial expectations.

Once I wrapped my mind around the many names, third person, and first-name references to Eliza's parents, I found myself in an endearing story about the complicated reality of grief, family secrets, and personal growth.

In retrospect, I appreciate how there isn't "too much" character growth. Eliza is human, and the story is focused enough that there isn't an expectation that by the end of a few hundred pages, she'll have the secrets of the universe.

I haven't read an entire book in one day in quite a while, so it was nice to have the chance to devour Andrea J. Stein's sophomore novel, Dear Eliza. It's a compelling story that is equal parts heartbreaking and uplifting.

I don't want to say too much as to not spoil anything, but from the moment Eliza reads the letter from her mom, you will feel like you're on a journey with her. There's a lot more to the story than just what is written in the letter, including a focus on Eliza's career and love life. Andrea handles the subject of grief in a sensitive and exploratory way, especially since Eliza has lost both her parents and is learning new things about herself as a result.

It would have helped to indicate the year that the story takes place. That lack of information had me doing mental math because I thought it was set in the present and things just weren't adding up. I also wish there had been more Jewish elements aside from just attending shivas and mentioning a Bar Mitzvah photo.

Side note: I had "Dead Mom" from Beetlejuice the musical in my head from reading this novel. It's actually a great song and it fits the premise in some ways.

Overall, this was a great novel and I look forward to reading more from Andrea in the future! Dear Eliza is releasing next month, so be sure to add it to your fall TBR! In the meantime, read Andrea's debut, Typecast.

Movie casting suggestions:
Eliza: Victoria Pedretti
Josh: Fabien Frankel
Scott: Gregg Sulkin
Ross: Ethan Hawke
Carol: Jennifer Westfeldt
Mo: Geraldine Viswanathan

Well written story of a young woman who lost her mother as a teenager and suddenly her father when she is a young adult After her fathers death she receives some unexpected news which takes her on a journey of self discovery and has to address past issues with her familial relationships. I am glad I was able to read this thru NetGalley and will read previous book by this author now.

After the death of her father, Eliza receives a letter from her long-deceased mother via her aunt. The envelope says "To be given to Eliza on the death of her father" In the letter Eliza learns some very shocking news, so not only does she have to deal with her father's passing she also has to deal with the emotional revelations of her mother's letter.

Eliza's Mother wasn't in the book a lot but I hated her with a passion. What she did to her daughter, right after losing the only parent she had left, made me so angry. Children aren't stupid and you should always be honest with them, especially where this secret is concerned. I also had a hard time liking Eliza's brother, Rory and his wife. Why weren't they concerned for Eliza? And why didn't they have her back? They didn't consider her feelings. Don't Eliza's feelings count for anything? It seemed to me they didn't care about what she was going through in the slightest. Eliza really lost out in the family lottery. Fortunately she she has great friends in Mo and Josh not to mention a wonderful aunt and support system in Claude.

Written so realistically I loved following Eliza on her journey of discovery and falling in love. If you find my review light on the details it's because I'm being purposely vague, I don't want to give any spoilers away. One thing I didn't like about the book was that Eliza kept calling her parents by their first name, even in her head and in her internal thoughts. It boggled my mind why the author would do that.

I found this to be a quick read due to the reliability and likeability of Eliza's character, and I was desperate to see the conclusion. This is an incredibly emotive read that I was able to absorb quickly. The grief process is a complex yet personal one; however, due to this author's excellent writing style, I empathised entirely with Eliza.

The pace of the storyline is engaging, and the secondary characters are equally well crafted. 'Dear Eliza' would be ideal for a book club read because it will likely promote deep-rooted conversations and meaningful discussions.

I look forward to reading more by this author in the future and am intrigued to discover more of her writing talents.

This is such a beautiful story about grief and family dynamics. After Eliza’s father passes away, Eliza’s aunt gives her a letter from her mother who passed away when Eliza was 16. This letter changes Eliza’s life forever.

This is the second book I read by Andrea Stein and I loved it so much. The characters are all amazing, complex, and relatable. The story touches upon grief, forgiveness, self growth, and romance. The NYC setting was an added bonus.

This made me cry.
I can’t imagine my mom dying especially at 16.
Eliza’s development was great. Loved the slow burn romance with her brothers friend.

Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein was such an emotional read. Eliza receives a letter from her mother. The family drama, grief, hurt and anger were written quite well in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

📚 PRE-PUBLICATION BOOK TOUR BOOK REVIEW 📚

Dear Eliza By Andrea J. Stein
Publication Date: October 8, 2024
Publisher: Girl Friday Productions | Flashpoint

📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

📚MY REVIEW:

Dear Eliza was a heart-warming story about the ways that unexpected tragedies can up-end our lives... And how we can find the resilience to make our lives into the story we envision, not just the story we've been given.

Eliza, our female main character, is a loveable twenty-something living in New York City and grappling with a lot of challenging emotions all at once. This book presented really heavy emotional topics within a storyline that dealt with them in a touching and authentic way. Grief, loss, parent-child relationships, regrets, betrayals, secrets, romantic relationships, and family dynamics all played a part in the pages of this book. Most predominantly featured in this story, however, was Eliza's revelation that our parents are people too -- people with their own pasts, choices, emotions, and mistakes. The book lovingly showcased Eliza's journey as she came to this realization and began learning how to integrate that knowledge into her own life, without allowing it to remain a burden or barrier to hold her back.

All of the characters in Dear Eliza are so richly developed, I felt like I was intricately connected to the emotional struggles of each one as the story unfolded. At the book's end, I was really sad to know it was the end of my time with all of them -- and I truly didn't want the book to end. I feel like I need a sequel, just so I can continue watching everyone's growth and be sure they're all okay.

Dear Eliza was a beautiful book and I genuinely loved reading it! If you've had to grapple with your own grief journeys in life, this book will probably imprint its emotional impact on you too. I highly recommend this read and I hope you will fall in love with Eliza and the whole cast of characters in the same beautiful way I did. A huge thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours, NetGalley, and Andrea J. Stein for sending me an e-copy of this book in exchange for my participation in the book tour and my honest review.

#DearEliza #AndreaJStein #booktour #KateRockBookTours #NetGalley #NetGalletReviews #ARC #bookreviews #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #bookaddict #booknerd

This was a complex story and very difficult to read if you don’t have a good relationship with your mother.

I thought Eliza was a bit immature at times, also we didn’t really get to know Scott as much as I wanted to!
I thought the story was interesting.

Spoiler!!!!
My other criticism is we didn’t have enough chapters on her and joshes relationship!

Thank you to Netgalley for my arc.

Thank you netgalley for an arc of this book! I was a little apprehensive to read it. Obviously we all will unfortunately lose our parents so that made me put off this book for a while, but once I started reading it was very good. This book is a great reminder that while lose and grief are awful it is something we all will go through, and the romance in this book showed me at least that while grief can feel all consuming it isn't/

Life is complicated.

Grief, a combative stepparent, and a strained sibling relationship are all exacerbated when an explosive secret is exposed. Eliza is left reeling, unsure as to whether she can trust her own emotions.

DEAR ELIZA is an insightful look at the complexities of family and friendships, at the ways we fail and the ways we heal, and how we can love someone even when—or, maybe, especially when—we know their flaws.

Stein weaves a relatable story that tackles difficult topics, while always maintaining that thread of hope we all need.

I have never read an Andrea J Stein novel before, but I’m sure glad I read DEAR ELIZA! What a beautiful story! I’m very excited to read her previous book now. This absorbing story combines both the beautiful sensory details of heartfelt characters, a moving plot, and a story with so much depth. DEAR ELIZA is an emotional read with characters I rooted for, and some lovely details that brought the city of New York City to life. I highly recommend this story if you need a complete escape from life. It will also give you all the feels!

DEAR ELIZA explores family dynamics, loss, secrets, and a new romance! Andrea J Stein handles difficult topics and has the reader cheering for everyone to succeed. When I started reading DEAR ELIZA, I didn’t know I’d come to love it this much. Where to start? Eliza is such a great character, full of life and warmth. I loved how she didn’t let her past troubles destroy herself completely. Ten years after her mother died and her father just passing away, Eliza is struggling. She received a letter that her mother wrote to her from her aunt that wasnt to be opened until the death of her father, and Eliza’s world turns upside down. While all of this is going on she leans on her old friend, Josh. Oh and I have to mention that Eliza has a step mother, Carol who married her dad and never quite fit in with Eliza’s family! She has a very big part in this story!

I don’t want to say too much for fear of giving away too much of DEAR ELIZA but once I started reading this beautiful and heart breaking story, I could not stop! Everyone should have this unforgettable book on their fall reading list. After the letter is opened, Eliza’s older brother is mad at her and Carol was to disinherit her. The dialogue between Eliza and Josh is sometimes funny and other times frustrating! They both have secrets and without letting them out, they will not be able to move forward. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters from page one and I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

How do you remember people you’ve lost in your life? I like to reread old letters from my grandmothers that I received in the past. It’s fun to “hear” their voices again. I also love looking at old pictures.

In Dear Eliza, Eliza Levinger receives a letter ten years after her mother died of cancer that rocks her world. Her mother, Laura, had given the letter to her sister, Claude, to give to Eliza after her father’s death. In it, she discovers a shocking revelation. It rocks Eliza’s world, and she has to deal with the fallout. How will she move forward with this new knowledge? What is holding her back in life?

My thoughts on this novel:
• I greatly enjoyed this book and all the characters. I loved Eliza, her brother Scott, sister-in-law Maren, best friend Mo, and her brother Scott’s life long best friend Josh. I enjoyed their friendships, relationships, and wanted to read more about them. I was sad when this book ended as I wanted to spend more time in their world.

• I loved the friends to lovers, slow burn, and kind of second chance romance between Eliza and Josh. I loved how supportive Josh was to Eliza, but wondered why he wasn’t there during her time of need after Eliza’s mother’s death. Josh and Eliza had wonderful interactions.

• This novel deals with grief in many ways. After Laura’s death when Eliza was 16, Eliza was floundering with no help. Her father married not long afterwards, and Eliza did not have a good relationship with her stepmother Carol. Eliza never was able to properly grieve. Her relationship with her father never was the same and was distant. When he dies, Eliza feels terrible for what was and what could have been.

• Although Laura was not alive in this novel, she made me angry. I didn’t like the bombshell that she had her sister give to Eliza right after her father’s death. It was a time of intense grief and not a time for Eliza to have to deal with a whole new set of problems. I wish she would have left positive messages that Eliza could have gotten after her death. I guess if I were Eliza, I would have liked to know what Laura had to say, but there could have been a better time for it.

• I liked the New York City setting.

• I like how Eliza was able to reset her life after the news. She realized that her relationships were not the best with her family or in her love life. I like how she was able to make a change for the better.

• I want to talk about this book more, but I don’t want to give away the details and ruin it for anyone else. I think this would be a great book club selection. I would also like to watch a movie based on this novel.

Overall, Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein is a beautifully written novel of self-discovery, grief, love, forgiveness, family and starting over again. I enjoyed this novel, and I can’t wait to see what Stein writes next!

Book Source: Review copy from author Andrea J. Stein. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

It always seems like death has a way of revealing secrets, whether we want death to do that or not.

The story begins with the death of Eliza's father, Jack. Then it spirals into how Jack is NOT Eliza's father but someone else is! That is the main crux of the story.

The characters are complex and yet simple. For instance, Eliza's brother, Scott has had to deal with his sisters new knowledge, while questioning his parents relationship, while also trying to be a good husband. Its a lot, but that is life.

The parts about the city and most of the middle of the book, drug on for me. I kept screaming at the book, just take a DANG DNA test already. Find out if this is real.

The drama with Carol was superb, I really thought about how Carol would feel and emphasized with that character .

Overall this is an enjoyable book, that drug in the middle and everything was neatly tied up in the end.

Thank you to Girl Friday Productions | Flashpoint and NetGalley for an electronic advanced readers copy of this novel.

Eliza is experiencing the unexpected death of her father, with whom she had a distant yet loving relationship. Her father had married soon after her mother's death from cancer, and Eliza didn't take it well. The day of her father's funeral, she receives a letter that her mother wrote and gave to her aunt for safekeeping, which said on it, "To be opened after Larry's death."

I don't want to give spoilers, but Dear Eliza by Andrea J. Stein is an entertaining but touching novel about the power of grief, finding out your parents are people also and lost opportunities. I wanted to root for Eliza as her grief and uncertainty really shone through on the pages. I enjoyed this one a lot.

Amy Schneider’s Dear Eliza is a poignant and well-crafted novel that delves into themes of grief, family, and self-discovery. The story follows Eliza as she comes to terms with the sudden death of her father and uncovers shocking revelations through a letter from her deceased mother. At the same time, she navigates the complex landscape of romantic and career challenges typical of one’s late 20s.

Despite not having personally experienced the loss of a parent, I found Eliza’s journey profoundly relatable. Schneider’s writing captures Eliza’s emotions in an authentic and accessible way, making her struggles with grief and self-discovery universal. The novel also thoughtfully examines family dynamics and the complexities of human relationships, presenting them in a way that feels both nuanced and real.

While the narrative is engaging throughout, some plot points can feel a little predictable. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story. Schneider's prose shines with emotional depth and care, keeping readers invested in Eliza's growth and healing.

Overall, Dear Eliza is a moving exploration of grief and the journey to find oneself amidst loss. Though it may not break new ground, it is a heartfelt and relatable novel that will resonate with many readers.

4.25 Stars!

This is a beautiful story that touches on dealing with grief and family drama.

When Eliza’s dad passes, she receives a letter that her mom has written her before she passed away. This letter changes Eliza’s world.

I enjoyed following Eliza’s journey and it all felt very real. I also enjoyed the heartwarming romance that was included but not the sole focus.

It was very well-written and the pacing was good. Be sure to check it out!🩵

Andrea J. Stein’s *Dear Eliza* takes readers on an emotional journey that blends family drama, love, and the unexpected revelations that force us to reevaluate our lives. At its heart, this novel explores the profound impact of grief, the complexities of family relationships, and the struggle to find closure—or at least peace—after the death of a loved one.

Eliza Levinger, the protagonist, is a woman who has painstakingly rebuilt her life after her mother’s death from cancer a decade earlier. She’s seemingly doing well with her career as the director of development at a nonprofit, her apartment in Manhattan, and a casual relationship that suits her emotional guard. But just as she begins to feel some semblance of stability, everything crumbles when her father dies suddenly. His passing sets off a cascade of events, starting with a mysterious letter from Eliza’s late mother that was to be opened only after her father’s death.

The letter reveals a shocking family secret that turns Eliza’s world upside down. It throws her into turmoil, further straining her relationships with her brother, whose anger threatens their bond, and with her stepmother, whose sudden hostility adds tension. Eliza’s best friend, Mo, who has always been her emotional anchor, seems distant, leaving her feeling isolated at a time when she needs support the most. This sense of alienation and the chaos the letter creates is something Stein handles with authenticity and depth.

The character of Eliza is compelling because of her vulnerability and complexity. She’s not just grieving; she’s grappling with trust issues and a reluctance to let anyone in, scars left by the traumas of her past. Stein masterfully portrays Eliza’s internal conflict, capturing both the weight of loss and the fear of emotional intimacy. Eliza’s no-strings-attached relationship seems to reflect her guarded nature—she’s in control of her life, or so she thinks, but the letter forces her to confront the reality that she’s been living in survival mode rather than truly thriving.

A bright spot in her unraveling life is Josh, her brother’s best friend and her high school crush. Josh emerges as an unexpected ally, and their reconnection adds a layer of warmth to the story. Their relationship is beautifully written, offering a slow-burn romance that contrasts with the chaos around Eliza. As she learns to trust Josh, she also starts to rediscover parts of herself that she had buried in the wake of her mother’s death. Their relationship feels authentic—rooted in shared history and mutual understanding rather than the whirlwind passion of typical romance novels.

One of the novel’s standout themes is the idea of trust, both in others and in oneself. Eliza’s journey isn’t just about grappling with grief but also about learning to trust again—to open up to the people who care about her, despite the fear of being hurt. Her evolving relationship with Josh and the reconciliation with her brother show how trust and vulnerability are crucial to healing.

Stein’s writing captures the emotional weight of grief and the ways in which loss ripples through every aspect of life, long after the fact. But the novel also offers hope. Eliza’s journey shows that even when life shatters unexpectedly, it’s possible to rebuild, often with the help of others. The story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, with moments of raw emotion tempered by the possibility of new beginnings.

*Dear Eliza* is a deeply moving story about family secrets, the enduring effects of loss, and the transformative power of love and trust. Andrea J. Stein has crafted a narrative that feels personal, yet universal in its exploration of grief and healing. Readers will find themselves rooting for Eliza as she navigates the difficult terrain of her past and present, and they may even find echoes of their own struggles in her story. For anyone who has dealt with the loss of a loved one or faced a family revelation that changes everything, this novel will resonate deeply.

As a woman who lost her mom- this book absolutely made me feel all the feels.

Grief, love, frustration, etc. Add in hard family dynamics and the struggle of sometimes prioritizing yourself.

I found so much of myself connected to Eliza. A super powerful story that is well written & thought out and can truly bring out every emotion in you.

An absolutely amazing story, 4 star worthy and absolutely worth the read.. publish date 10/8/24!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this super touching arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book made me laugh, cry, and sweat! The portrayals of grief are poignant and honest. Eliza’s struggle to see her parents as they are - imperfect humans with real flaws - hit close to home and had me sobbing with her more than once. This may not be an “easy” read for those who find themselves on a grief journey, but it was absolutely worth it. The tension and spice is an effective balm (or at least, a distraction) for the grieving soul, too!

Dear Eliza by Amy Schneider is a well-written novel that explores themes of grief, family, and self-discovery. The story follows Eliza as she grapples with the unexpected death of her father and the shocking revelations contained in a letter from her deceased mother, while also navigating the romantic and career challenges of your late 20s.

Though I have not personally lost a parent, I loved that both Eliza and her journey were relatable and authentic, making it easy to connect with her emotions. The also book delves into important themes such as grief, family dynamics, and the complexities and nuances of human relationships. But, while the overall story is engaging, some parts feel a bit predictable.

Overall, Dear Eliza is a solid read that offers a poignant exploration of grief and healing. While it may not be groundbreaking, it is a well-crafted story that will resonate with many readers. I'd rate it 3.5 stars, rounded up.

I wanted/had planned to give this 4 stars, but my biggest grievance was the ending. The spicy scene felt unnecessary, forced, and didn't fit the overall vibe of the book. Unfortunately, it left a not-great taste in my mouth in terms of how the story wrapped up.

When Eliza was 16, she lost her mother, and 10 years later she lost her father. Eliza’s aunt gives her a letter written by her mother revealing a shocking secret.

Dear Eliza is a heart-wrenching story that had me hooked from the beginning. I felt bad for Eliza; her mother left her in emotional turmoil. I was rooting for her throughout the book. I enjoyed reading about Eliza’s journey from confusion to finding herself in a better place.

My only issue was jumping into the past timeline in mid-chapter; it would have been better if it was told in a dual timeline. The pacing of this book was odd.

Overall, it was a great book to read.

Ten years after her mother’s death, Eliza Levinger’s life is turned upside down by a letter from the past—one that shatters her sense of stability and forces her to reevaluate everything. As she navigates the fallout of this bombshell, Eliza must confront strained relationships, family secrets, and her own guarded heart. With the help of her brother’s best friend—and former crush—Josh, she begins to find her footing again. A story about healing, love, and learning to trust again.

4.5/5 stars

Dear Eliza is an emotional read. I would describe it as contemporary women's fiction with some romance. I'd also consider it a family drama.

The story takes place in New York City. The narrator is 26 year old Eliza (3rd person POV).

This book has good Jewish rep. There are lots of Jewish references, including the book starting at Eliza's dad's shiva. I knew before reading Dear Eliza that the character's mother had passed away 10 years earlier. But I was not expecting this to be such a big part of the story. So between this and the dedication (to the author's mom) parts of this book were quite hard for me to read.

I definitely connected with Eliza. In this book she receives a letter from her mother. I would suspect that many readers (like myself) would do anything to be able to receive a letter from their mom. So I did find this main aspect of the book to be very relatable.

I liked the relationships that Eliza had with her brother Scott and her best friend (Mo). I thought that the relationship with her stepmother Carol made the book very interesting. I really liked the romantic lead a lot. However I definitely wish that the romance had been a bigger part of the story. Also, I found that the secret in the letter and how that played out was such a good plot point.

Overall, this was such a quick read. I was very invested in the story. It was a moving story and made me feel a lot. I just didn't realize how much of the book would focus on her mom's death.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲?

This is the central question in Dear Eliza, a novel about grief, family dynamics, and self-discovery.

This is the central question in Dear Eliza, a novel about grief, family dynamics, and self-discovery.

Eliza was only sixteen when her mother passed away and her relationship soon became rocky with her dad when he was quick to remarry. Ten years later, her father has also passed away, and Eliza is still learning how to live with the grief of not having her mother around. When her aunt gives her a letter from her mother, only to be opened after her father's death, the content rocks her world, and she has to re-evaluate everything she thought she knew about herself.

I felt so many emotions for Eliza while she struggled to figure out her next steps. I was sad for her, and mad for her, I felt protective over her, and I felt hopeful for her. It had me wondering what I would do if I were put in the same position. The book was so realistically written and captured how our parents aren't always perfect people, that people we love are flawed and nuanced, and what we have to make of that. I also liked that Eliza, who idolized her mother as a child and had a picture in her head of this perfect person, actually got to know and understand her mother better after her death. There's also a little romance that balanced the book well and gave it some sweet moments.

If you like character driven novels, stories about growth, and found families, this book is for you. This is also such a great book for discussion because, like real life, so many of the characters and situations weren't black or white. If you have read Dear Eliza, I would love to discuss it with you!!

Was this an especially timely read for me because I just got back from a spa weekend with my own mom, who I'm now getting to know as a friend and not just a parent? 100% yes.

Thank you to the author, Girl Friday Productions and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for my honest opinion.