I hadn’t read one of Barbara O’Neal’s novels in a few years. Thanks to Kaye Wilkinson Barley for mentioning that The Last Letter of Rachel Ellsworth was coming out, and that she loved it. I’ve been a fan of O’Neal’s for over fifteen years.

Veronica Barrington is at a crucial turning point in her life. Her husband wanted a divorce, and left her for a younger woman, a typical cliche in life. However, he also took the house Veronica loved, and she went a little crazy over that. Now, she’s stuck in a little apartment, and her grown children won’t be home for Christmas. When she chances upon an ad for a companion to go to Europe for six weeks, and the woman must speak French, she grabs at the opportunity.

Veronica isn’t exactly what Mariah Ellsworth was expecting. Mariah is only twenty-five, and thought she’d travel with someone her own age, not someone twice her age. But, Mariah’s aunt was forced to drop out of the trip, and the young woman needs help. She’s recovering from emotional and physical trauma, including the loss of her mother, Rachel.

Henry Spinuzza was a friend of Rachel’s, and the only father figure in Mariah’s life. He’s a former war photographer who has his own issues. But, he’s meeting the travelers in London to help with Rachel’s last project.

Rachel Ellsworth was an author who left notes about Parsi cafes in London, Paris, Marrakech, and India. Mariah doesn’t know why her mother was fascinated by them, but she hopes to follow her mother’s trail, with a few letters to guide her. Maybe she can write a final book in honor of her mother.

These unlikely travel companions delve into a world of unfamiliar food and beauty as they search for answers that will transform their future.

The Last Letter of Rachel Ellsworth is a story of regret and love. Each person has to learn to let go, and find the courage to reconstruct their lives. As always, O’Neal uses exquisite food to carry readers into a sensory exploration of the world and life. The book, and the characters, are captivating.

Barbara O’Neal’s website is https://barbaraoneal.com/

The Last Letter of Rachel Ellsworth by Barbara O’Neal. Lake Union Publishing, 2025. 395p.

The publisher allowed me to read a galley through NetGalley, with no expectation of a review.