Joy

By: Danielle Steel

Narrated by: James Babson

In this deeply moving novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Danielle Steel, a determined young woman must survive a series of abandonments to find a love that is worthy of her.

When she is only six years old, Allegra Dixon’s party-loving mother leaves without so much as a goodbye. Her father, an emotionally distant military officer, is also unable—or unwilling—to care for her. Sent to live like a ghost in her grandparents’ joyless home, Allegra finds her only solace through an escape into books.

Attending boarding school, life finally takes a turn when she meets a dashing young West Point cadet named Shep Williams. Soon their friendship blossoms into something more, and they fall deeply in love.

After college, Allegra has established herself as a book editor and Shep is rising through the ranks of the military. But then Shep suddenly receives a posting to Afghanistan, and they decide to marry before he goes. Between his deployments, they cling to their brief and fraught stolen moments together. Each time he leaves, Shep promises the separations will soon come to an end.

But soon Allegra realizes that the horrors of war have begun to change her husband into a man she no longer recognizes. The trauma he has experienced proves to be too harrowing, and Allegra will find herself feeling utterly alone again just when she thought she’d finally found happiness.

In her new novel, Danielle Steel tells the unforgettable story of a woman who refuses to give up until she finds the joy she deserves.

©2024 Danielle Steel (P)2024 Recorded Books

The Heart’s Battlefield - Love, Loss and War

I was captivated by the story and the narrator’s performance was outstanding. The realism of the story touched me deeply, and the sad moments brought me to tears. It made me appreciate the fortunate childhood I had and empathize with children who experience lovelessness from their parents. Danielle Steele’s books have taught me a lot, especially about the war in Afghanistan and its impact on both men and women.

Joy

Liked the meaning of Joy. It is a sense of fulfillment that transcends romance and love.

Joy - a similar read

Another classic Danielle Steel read which I enjoyed. It’s very similar to another of hers, Invisible.

Enjoyable Danielle Steel!

An easy read, characters with plenty of background, although it would have been better to give Shep an ending and include interaction.with his family. This was a great "road trip" book!

Love Love

This book really pulls you in. You love Allegra and feel sorry for her, then happy for her as her life continues. Loved it!