Publication Date: July 30, 2024
Unforgettable and utterly romantic, The Days I Loved You Most is an emotional, life-affirming novel that asks, What if you could write the final chapter of your own love story?
In the summer of 1941, on the New England shores where they were raised, Evelyn and Joseph fell in love. Now, more than sixty years later, with a lifetime between them, they have gathered their three grown children to share the staggering news: she has received a heartbreaking diagnosis, and he can’t live without her. So in one year’s time they will end their love story on their own terms.
Over the next year, the couple retraces their past—all the joys and regrets that brought them to this moment. They embark on a journey to live out their greatest dreams and to connect with each of their children. But as their final days draw closer, they must confront the stark reality of what’s to come, and make peace with the legacy they will leave behind for their family.
Spanning the twentieth century from World War II to 9/11 and beyond, The Days I Loved You Most is a timeless tale of unwavering devotion — a moving tribute to the enduring power of love and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope and beauty to be found.
The Days I Loved You Most by Amy Neff was an emotional read by a debut author. The depth of the characters and the storyline was mind-blowing, and it was reminiscent to me of The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. I would have given the book more than five stars if it was an option; it was that good. It had me crying, laughing, connecting, celebrating, cringing, and suffering along with the characters.
Evelyn and Joseph’s story was told in alternating chapters. The timeframe goes from the past—before WWII, to the present and all the years between. They have been friends their whole lives, along with Evelyn’s older brother, Tommy, and Evelyn and Joseph have always loved each other even if they didn’t always say the words. Observing their lives unfold along with their families and how they deal with all that life throws at them was heartwarming and heartbreaking. Communication was key, and they didn’t always seem to be on the same page. Were they really protecting their spouse when they didn’t have certain discussions or relay information regarding something that happened? Their role models were not forthcoming with reasons why things happened, which also shaped them.
Several stories are told, and they are always connected in some fashion. I liked the growth of their three children and how they dealt with their own issues as well as those involving their parents.
Evelyn’s lists and the letters she wrote and shared were interesting. The ending took me by surprise, but it was what I was rooting for and hoping for. I wish the ending had gone on a little longer to get their children’s take on it. Even with all my stomach clenches, sobs, and tears, it was an incredible story that had me invested from the first page to the last. I will be looking for more books by this author.
The Days I Loved You Most is wonderfully written, with depth and richness in the telling of the tale. Vivid descriptions, along with hopes and dreams, kept the story flowing and my emotions engaged. Have those tissues handy!
Amy Neff’s debut novel, The Days I Loved You Most, is a love letter to the seaside town where her family has spent summers since the early 1900s. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and two sons.
