Heart the Lover

Bookseller recommendation

“This book was written for lovers of literature about lovers and literature. It will pull you in, leave you feeling comforted with its captivating relationships and then destroy you in such a beautiful way that you will say “thank you” afterwards. If anyone needs me, I’ll just be pondering the very existence of nostalgic memories.”

— Mandy • Fred & June's Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This is a book I've struggled to write a recommendation for because there is so much I love about it, so I'll leave this with a few of my favorite details: the evolution of the nameless narrator's nicknames through the course of the story, the juxtaposition of coming-of-age vs. coming-of-middle-age, and the fact it serves as both sequel and prequel to King's 2020 Writer's & Lovers (though it can be read independently). Lily King has been and remains one of my favorite authors, with a handle on language that is both rich and not overwritten.”

— Andrea • Third Place Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Perfect for romantics and Sally Rooney fans, Lily King’s (author of Writers and Lovers) Heart the Lover is an intimate and brilliant novel about first love. It brings us into the life of Jordan and the love triangle between her and two college students. Spanning three decades, the story explores the lasting impact of the choices we make. This love letter to writing and friendship will linger with you long after turning the final pages. ”

— Trinity • Bookshop Santa Cruz

Bookseller recommendation

“Lily King’s Writers & Lovers was such a favourite, I was so looking forward to Heart the Lover. I read it on a sunny day in my backyard, with the smell of blossom in the air, the perfect place for this wonder of a book. Lily King does so much with so little. Here you have it all. A perfectly constructed story about love and choices and how things echo down the years. She is so generous with her characters, and they are so memorable that I will be thinking about them for a long time. Other lucky people are spending the last part of the book having a good howl. I was so ready for it, but I was interrupted by visitors—twice! I missed my weep! Don't miss yours. Pretend you aren't home. ”

— Ali • Ladyhawke

Bookseller recommendation

“A five star read. Don't be deceived by the cover. This one is a true gem! ”

— Ann • Mill Street Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Heart the Lover is one of those books that holds on to you long after you read the last page. It is about life, love, youth, regrets, missed opportunities and the fickleness of what it means to secretly love someone for years and years. I really enjoyed this. Lily King has outdone herself with this novel.”

— Claire • Mostly Books