This is a heartbreaking story set in wartime London, following a young woman with a gift for dressmaking and design. Sadly, she makes some poor choices in pursuit of her ambitions. I absolutely adored Charlotte, the foster mother; she was such a wonderful character. **Secrets of a Charmed Life** by Susan Meissner is quite a depressing read, so maybe don't pick it up on a beautiful, sunny day! It's a great example of historical fiction, though, if you're looking for good **book reviews** in that ...

I've had my eye on *Secrets of a Charmed Life* for a while, not only because the premise sounded right up my alley, but also because I really love the book cover. After I read and enjoyed Susan Meissner's latest book, *The Last Year of the War*, I quickly added my name to my library's wait list for this one. Even though I rated both books at 4 stars, I do think *Secrets of a Charmed Life* was slightly better. American Kendra Van Zant is studying in England when she's given the opportunity to in...

It was a solid four stars for me, right up until a few things started to grate on my nerves. Susan Meissner's *Secrets of a Charmed Life* had such promise, and for a good portion of the book, it delivered. But then... well, let's just say some plot choices felt a bit forced towards the end. I still think fans of historical fiction, especially those who enjoy World War II-era stories, will find a lot to love in *Secrets of a Charmed Life*. It's a captivating read overall, perfect for those lookin...

American authors really should stick to American stories. This reads like a modern American teenager throwing a tantrum because things aren't going her way, but set during the Blitz. The disconnect between the historical setting and the character's reactions is HUGE. Imagine blending High School Musical with the SS marching down the street – that's what this feels like. It's unsettling, to say the least. The author makes absolutely no concessions to the fact that this isn't set in the modern US....

"Fear is worse than pain, I think. Pain is centralized, identifiable, and wanes as you wait. Fear is a heaviness you can't wriggle out from under. You must simply find the will to stand with it and start walking. Fear does not start to fade until you take the step that you think you can't."This is a relatively simple story of ordinary people during an extraordinary time, but it's complex in its development. It's a story about how one single decision can completely change your life forever.I ofte...

Loved it! I really appreciate that Susan Meissner didn't feel the need to create a complicated "present" story... the past took center stage. Wonderfully and descriptively written to where I felt compelled to YouTube videos from the Blitz. Must have been a truly terrifying time to be a Londoner. I look very forward to reading more by Susan Meissner. *Secrets of a Charmed Life* gets 4.5 stars. Definitely recommend for readers who enjoy historical fiction!

I've only just started reading **Secrets of a Charmed Life** by Susan Meissner, and it's already getting on my nerves! All the talk of 'sidewalks' and stepping on the 'gas' pedal is really distracting. I keep expecting to discover the main characters are recent American immigrants. If you're writing a book about the Blitz in London from a British perspective and want British readers to take it seriously, these little details matter. I'm constantly bracing myself for the next blunder. As far as h...

I love being shocked, being made to think, and getting completely lost in someone else's story. Susan Meissner's *Secrets of a Charmed Life* certainly delivered. The engaging narrative sucked me right in, and I was kept in suspense until the very end. It really made me think hard about the issue it tackles: blame, specifically blaming oneself for things beyond your control. And honestly, that was a good lesson for me right now. Here's the gist: The story is set in London during World War II, f...

I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely loved *Secrets of a Charmed Life*! I thought Susan Meissner's story was beautiful in a simple way, yet it still left a lasting impact on me. I just can't imagine going through something like the London Blitz during WWII. Such a sad and devastating time. This book made me feel like I was right there, experiencing it all with Emmy. I could feel her loss and hopelessness so vividly. I could also feel h...

This book *almost* made my list of all-time favorites. I haven't been so completely absorbed in a story since I devoured the Little House books as a kid. Susan Meissner masterfully made me care deeply about Emmy and Julia, and then, well, she took me on an absolutely harrowing journey through the London Blitz. And then... we got to the final section, presented as journal entries. While there was no way I was going to stop reading at that point, the story definitely lost some steam. I no longer ...