The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy

A Novel

De: Rachel Joyce

Narrado por: Celia Imrie

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry comes an exquisite love story about Queenie Hennessy, the remarkable friend who inspired Harold’s cross-country journey.

“This lovely book is full of joy. Much more than the story of a woman’s enduring love for an ordinary, flawed man, it’s an ode to messy, imperfect, glorious, unsung humanity.”—The Washington Post

A runaway international bestseller, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry followed its unassuming hero on an incredible journey as he traveled the length of England on foot—a journey spurred by a simple letter from his old friend Queenie Hennessy, writing from a hospice to say goodbye. Harold believed that as long as he kept walking, Queenie would live. What he didn’t know was that his decision to walk had caused her both alarm and fear. How could she wait? What would she say? Forced to confront the past, Queenie realizes she must write again.

In this poignant parallel story to Harold’s saga, acclaimed author Rachel Joyce brings Queenie Hennessy’s voice into sharp focus. Setting pen to paper, Queenie makes a journey of her own, a journey that is even bigger than Harold’s; one word after another, she promises to confess long-buried truths—about her modest childhood, her studies at Oxford, the heartbreak that brought her to Kingsbridge and to loving Harold, her friendship with his son, the solace she has found in a garden by the sea. And, finally, the devastating secret she has kept from Harold for all these years.

A wise, tender, layered novel that gathers tremendous emotional force, The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy underscores the resilience of the human spirit, beautifully illuminating the small yet pivotal moments that can change a person’s life.

Reseñas de la Crítica

“[A] deeply affecting novel . . . Culminating in a shattering revelation, [Queenie’s] tale is funny, sad, hopeful: She’s bound for death, but full of life.”—People

“Delightful.”—Minneapolis Star Tribune

“Joyce’s writing at moments has a simplicity that sings. She captures hope best of all.”—The Guardian

“Joyce has a wonderfully evocative turn of phrase and like her other books this is a delightful read. . . . Queenie is an uplifting and moving companion to Harold.”—Daily Express

“Joyce nicely calls the book a companion rather than a sequel. But The Love Song is bolder than a retread of the same material from another angle. . . . After two such involving novels, readers are bound to wish for a third.”—The Telegraph

“[Joyce] manages to both add depth to an already strong work and build something new and beautiful upon it.”—The A.V. Club

“A wonderful read . . . It is not necessary to read Harold’s story before reading Queenie’s to enjoy this bittersweet novel, which is a pleasure in its own right. However, reading both will only serve to double that pleasure.”—The Independent

“[A] beguiling follow-up . . . In telling Queenie’s side of the story, Joyce accomplishes the rare feat of endowing her continuing narrative with as much pathos and warmth, wisdom and poignancy as her debut. Harold was beloved by millions; Queenie will be, too.”—Booklist (starred review)

“Destined to change your world. One can’t help but see life, and the end of it, differently after experiencing this novel. Full of wisdom and heart, it will overwhelm its readers with a deep sensitivity.”—Bookreporter

Just wow

I came upon this book after listening to the incredible story of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, and this book definitely did not disappoint! I was engaged from the very beginning and throughout its entirety. Celia Imrie has a pleasant voice, making it such a pleasing and soothing listen. Rachel Joyce has now become one of my favorite authors. I HIGHLY recommend this book, but definitely read its “companion” book first! Enjoy!!!

A must read!

TLSOQH ended mere minutes ago and I already have a book hangover. This book offers every aspect a reader looks for from humor, adventure, intellect, authenticity of the human condition, sadness to imagination.

The narrator couldn’t be better!

And now for her side of the story.

The perfect companion piece to The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. Lovely. Full character development and engaging story. What more can a reader ask?

Queenie, my Queenie!

A lovely book with beautifully simple words. It lives quietly in my soul. Read it, you must.

Great story

Loved this book. Must become read after The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. So many layers and depth to the telling of Queenie's story.

Love Song of Life

Rachel Joyce writes two books and gives us three! She has not written prequel or a sequel, as she explains, nor a companion book to The Unfinished Journey of Harold Fry. No. Rather, she has written three books --a third book just between the two is there, present for each reader!
I thought Rachel Joyce was brilliant with Harold Fry, yet this book adds greater dimension to the Harold's journey, to Queenie and, finally, to our own story. I can only invite you to read this book-- a work for your journey, for your life.

absolutely loved this story!

Magnificent companion book to Harold Frye...reader was spot on...easy book to fall in love with

Just lovely.!

Life affirming tale of love in all its forms. So sweet and sad. Laughed until I cried. Caused me to pause and silently say 'yes, that's true'. Thank you.

subtlety moving

From reading Queenie's perspective, I was able to gain a more complete story. While the basic storyline of this book and the previous book did not seem overly appealing to me at first glance, I'm so glad to have read the rich story and enjoyed the reflection it prompted regarding the complexities in life. the reader did a phenomenal job.

validation or our lives

The author's portrayal of Queenie's need and desire to validate her life prior to death was extraordinary. Queenie's death is not a sad death, but rather one of peace and reconciliation .
The narrator had such a peaceful, comforting voice. It seemed as if you were sitting close to a good friend.
Truly a great listen.