The Tea Rose

By Jennifer Donnelly

Set in Whitechapel in 1888, THE TEA ROSE is a tale of a love lost and won, of a family's destruction, of murder and revenge -- and one young woman.
Fiona Finnegan, the spirited, ambitious daughter of an Irish dock worker, longs to break free from the squalid alleys of Whitechapel. But her dreams fall apart with the sudden death of her father and the disappearance of her childhood love.Fiona flees to New York where she slowly builds a small grocery shop into a thriving tea house. But she cannot forget London. Convinced that her father was murdered, Fiona returns to the streets of her childhood, where she must attempt to bring his killers to justice and restore her family's good name.From the bleak poverty and burgeoning businesses of London to the immigrant districts and glossy lifestyle of Fifth Avenue, from East End dock workers to New York socialites, tHE tEA ROSE is a charming novel of family, fortune, tragedy and tea.'Vividly atmospheric, brilliantly told and great fun to read' Simon Winchester'Bold, brisk and beguiling,tHE tEA ROSE is a splendid brew of a book' Sam twining

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Australia
• Release date: Nov 1, 2011
• ISBN: 9781743095423

Jennifer Donnelly

Jennifer Donnelly writes books for children and adults, including the novel The Tea Rose. She lives in Brooklyn and upstate New York, with her husband and two greyhounds. She has a passion for tea and roses.

Reviews for The Tea Rose

[cookiedemon · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

**Warning: gushy review ahead!**I won't summarise this novel as other reviewers have gone into a lot of detail already, but please believe me when I say that this novel is so much more than just a historical romance. It is also the story of betrayal, poverty, friendship, revenge and justice and is a tale to really lose yourself in. The author has crafted incredibly believable characters and her settings are just superb, her research must have been timeless- you can genuinely feel the sights, smells and sounds of 1800's London coming through the pages and feel the spiciness of the tea leaves flooding your senses. I loved how New York during the same era was depicted with its sense of frantic pace and social climbing. Each page turn left me hungry for more- I literally devoured this book and felt a genuine sense of loss when I got towards the end- I'd grown really attached to the characters and their lives.The characters are terrifically drawn- especially feisty Fiona (Fee) who really comes into her own through the book and manages to overcome real adversity and heartbreak to really make something of herself. The secondary characters too, are wonderful- people you either love or hate (or both!). This book alternately had me both laughing and crying at some of what went on and I loved the little twist towards the end of the story which has left me heavily anticipating reading the second book in this series. Though this book could have been bleak, it managed instead to be really beautiful and intriguing and really brought that time in history to life with vivid colour and detail.Though I admittedly absolutely adored this book, there were a few little minor niggles I had with it that I feel I should point out that became a bit distracting in parts: I hated the way that the Cockney dialect was entwined within the text- though this was more evident towards the beginning of the novel. The Irish accent of Fiona's father was mildly irritating too- and possibly not needed, you knew he was Irish after all- the same with her Uncle Roddy. These aspects are, like I say, only minor. They did not detract my enjoyment from the story itself in any way, shape or form and this novel is most certainly now in my top ten favourite books *ever*, which believe me is no mean feat.I am so, so glad I have `The Winter Rose' ready to move onto next and I cannot wait to try some of Donnelly's other novels as well. Please, please read this book if you appreciate well written fiction with extraordinary characters you can really care about. You will not be disappointed you gave it a chance.*This review also appears on Amazon.co.uk*

[kasthu_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I really did want to like this book, because I normally like historical fiction situated in the Victorian era.The Tea Rose, altough well-written and extremely descriptive, didn't completely do it for me. For one thing, many of the things that occur in the story forced me to suspend my disbelief. Many of the events situations, and even people seemed contrived. It seemed unrealistic for working-class people to rise so fast in society, and for women to behave the way that Fiona did in this novel. It felt as though Donnely wrote about twenty first-century characters and then just placed them into a nineteenth century setting. Also, the villain in this piece seemed to be a caricature. I'm of the school that believes that historical fiction can deviate from events that actually took place, but that you have to make it seem realistic.Another thing I didn't like were the jumps back and forth between two places--New York and London. I also didn't like how several people's stories never really ended--what happened to Seamie, for example?

[whitewavedarling · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I actually read the sequel to The Tea Rose, The Winter Rose, when it first came out, and fell in love with everything about it. And so I bought this book way back then, but planned to stick it on a shelf and try to forget about it until I'd forgotten what I'd learned about the characters in the sequel, and could read this one fresh. I'm glad I did, and yet, I'm also a little glad it wasn't my introduction to Donnelly's work...The truth is, the first part of this book is heartbreaking in that way where you're not even sure why you're reading after a certain point, or whether you want to keep going. I think I was about 120 pages in when I asked my husband to hand me the book as he passed by, and his response was: "This? The book that keeps making you cry? Nope." True, I'd been sobbing over it when he came home from work the night before. But, of course, I got up to retrieve the book myself.Of course, some books make you cry for no reason, and just keep doing so. This isn't one of those. I adored this book. The character, the heartbreak, the humor, the spirit... I don't read historical fiction that often, but I adored this. I can't wait to read its sequel again, with fresh eyes and having read this.If you read historical fiction, yes, read this. The beginning has sadness along with every other emotion, but the level of it doesn't continue.Absolutely, recommended.

[jonesli · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is the first book in a trilogy which includes The Winter Rose and The Wild Rose.This hefty novel tells the beautiful story of Fiona Finnegan, and the struggles of her family in 19th Centry East London. There are so many tragic things that happen to Fiona in such a short time, that one would think she just couldn't endure any more, but she does. She is a fighter and is determined not to stay "in a woman's place' as she overcomes her impoverished life to become an owner of several successful tea shops. This book reminds me so much of the successful Emma Harte series written by Barbara Taylor Bradford, beginning with [A Woman of Substance], one of my favorite books ever. I thought that this book was a very well written piece of historical fiction and I am looking forward to reading the other two books in the series.

[kathywoodall · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I had high hopes for this novel. It starts of really good but drags by the middle of the novel. Once Fiona leaves for America I started losing interest in the novel and had to force myself to finish reading it.

[novimarra · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The Tea Rose, Jennifer Donnelly. Her first novel, you would never know it the way she can write a scene. Certain paragraphs are so emotionally-charged, there'll be tears. Some lines are funny as hell, and they'll have the lady next to you on the train rolling her eyes at your insane giggling. Cockney dialect aplenty, reminding me of Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes, but without all the fecks. This is a story, like many others of the historical fic genre, of love, loss, and finding love again in East London, circa 1888. But what I actually liked most about this book was the various platonic relationships that the protagonist Fiona has with family members and friends. For instance, she marries a gay man Nick, who happens to be my favorite character, and they have the most interesting relationship: at times, hilarious - he tends to call her "old shoe" in conversation as if it were her name, which makes me like him; at other times, he becomes Fiona's conscience, screaming exactly what she's afraid to tell herself. Considering Fiona's father doesn't figure into much of the book, he still becomes a real, sympathetic character as Fiona's flashbacks of her childhood torture her and at the same time drive her on into an uncertain future. All in all, the major heartbreak of the novel doesn't hold my interest as much as many other elements do - the book has some hilarious characters, a great story with plenty of twists, period detail of the slums of East London and Jack the Ripper.My mother-in-law read the front cover blurb from Frank McCourt and said "heartwarming novel of pain?!" Obviously she hasn't read much of the genre called "melodrama". And it's only recently that I realized I do in fact read plenty of melodrama. I semi-recently read the second installment of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series (must-read material for any fantasy/his-fic reader) Dragonfly in Amber - forget my description, just get 'em. I also devoured Paullina Simons' The Bronze Horseman earlier this year, a totally involving and exciting drama of the coming-of-age of Tatiana during the Siege of Leningrad. Her relationship with Alexander, a soldier in the Red Army, is naturally star-crossed and painful as any in the genre, and this one, perhaps unlike Fiona and Joe's, is worth the price of the book.emilysanecdots.blogspot.com

[bibliophileofalls · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This book was pretty good although way too long. Fairly predictable, it reminded me of the epic books popular in the 70's. I felt it was rather 2 dimensional and was rather tired of it by the end.

[bollix_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Good book about a tea purveyor.

[shouldireadit · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It is 1889 in the poor East End of London, and readers are introduced to 17 year old Fiona Finnegan and Joe Bristow. In love since they were children, they are determined to get married and get rich. All their dreams come crashing down forever when Joe is forced to marry Molly, Fiona's rival. With Joe gone, her father murdered for wanting a union, her mother murdered by Jack the Ripper, her brother drowned, and her young sister dead, Fiona has no one left but her younger brother Seamus. She makes a new life for herself in New York, but never gives up her dream of becoming rich and avenging her father's death, yet she can never forget Joe, who can never forget her. After 10 long years, their paths cross but never meet until a murderer comes close to taking away both of their dreams forever. An excellent, breathtaking read. Readers will keep turning pages hungrily until reaching the satisfying conclusion.

[cygnet81 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A compelling story propelled me through all 544 pages but the writing was ordinary and prescriptive.

[mrsdanaalbasha · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I'm interested in many things, but I have a few obsessions, such as a well-written period novel, tea, and thrillers with 'Jack the Ripper' in them. I kind of feel like Sherlock Holmes reading such books. I haven't started yet in "The Tea Rose" but I have bought the whole trilogy for the love of tea and those gorgeous covers! Fingers-crossed.

[laugal-2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book took me 120 pages to get into,almost gave up a few times.It was worth the effort.Historical fiction set in Jack the Ripper London,with the murders intertwining with our story.Fiona is one very strong,independent woman,a survivor.This story is love,mystery,suspense,it has it all well written.
SPOILER-
The love story of Joe and Fiona was lovely,BUT there were so many missed chances that it became a bit tiresome. By the time they got together,I was just glad it was over and done. BUT this was a worthwhile read.Enjoyable and a page turner at times.

[jenreidreads · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book was amazing. It is truly epic, covering a timespan of over a decade and dozens of characters. It's a mystery, historical drama, and a romance. The characters are wonderfully real, and Fiona Finnegan, the heroine, is someone you can relate to and want as a best friend. There is a lot of tragedy, but as painful as it is, love triumphs in the end. We learn with Fiona that sheer stubbornness and faith can get you through anything.Upon re-read April 2011Definitely re-read-able. Overall, I agree with my original review. In comparison to the other two books in this trilogy, however, The Tea Rose is the weakest. Fiona is a little *too* perfect, and the villian is almost cartoonishly evil. Still really good, of course. I looooove the romance in this story. But The Winter Rose is probably my favorite.

[bellafoxx · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

This was a very fascinating book. The author makes you feel like you are right there and the characters are real people, people who could be your friends, or your enemies. You feel their joy and their pain.

[ashleyk44 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I've been craving a good historical for a bit, and this one definitely did it for me! There were some things that didn't seem quite historically accurate - and some unlikely events and coincidences - but if you want a damn good story, read this. I couldn't put it down!

[bottleninja · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

this was really good!!wasn't expecting that good of a story.pleasantly surprised!!

[plunkinberry · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The first part of this book was slow going, but it got significantly better as it went. I ended up really enjoying the plot and the characters. The characters were very well developed and complex.

[anissaannalise-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Oh, the melodrama! It's soaptastic! I'm usually a much more cynical chica but I have to admit that I loved this story. I rooted for Fiona & was worried and sad when things went from awry to totally off the rails for her. I cheered when things turned around & held my breath for the next catastrophe. Joe garnered my annoyance early on but I never got to full on hating him & have to admit that when he was missing from the story for long stretches, I was wondering & concerned about him. His major crime was having been hapless, naive & easily manipulated. He paid in deep dividends so I couldn't wish more ill on him. All in all, I was pulling for a "Happily Ever After" & I'm not usually one who pines for those. This was the first I've read of Jennifer Donnelly but she was able to pull me in & play me from beginning to end.

For the most part, the rest of the cast of characters were very well drawn. I especially adored Nicholas (his father was a particularly nasty piece of work), Seamie, the Munroes & Uncle Michael. I didn't feel much investment in Will. He just felt like a temporary character (along with his family) meant to propel the plot. Like Fiona, I was dialing it in & just passing the time while Will was around. Millie wasn't well fleshed out & I didn't like her but I kept wondering why she was the way she was. Still, when she was gone, I was glad. All the characters tied to Burton & the union were okay but if I'm honest, I wasn't really into them much. They provided a particular counterpoint in the story but that aside, I didn't find them especially compelling. I thought the Ripper angle would factor in more but I don't mind that it didn't.

This was not my usual historical fiction read but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was long, played some common tropes & strung out the starcrossed lovers theme to the point I thought it would break. And somehow, it all worked for me. I never stopped caring, kept turning the pages & hoping for the best. It's not deep or revelatory but it definitely engaged me. The setup for the next installment was handled deftly, so I'm looking forward to it & I enjoyed the preview of "The Winter Rose" in the paperback version I read. I recognized the mains quickly. I must say that I'm sorry it took me so long to read this one but I'm thrilled that I finally have.

[erincathryn · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Actual rating: 2.5 stars.

The Tea Rose was kind of like a historically inaccurate soap opera set in 19th century London and New York. I love the historical fiction genre, something I discovered quite by surprise after reading Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. But the big difference here was that Jennifer Donnelly didn't seem to care much for the historical aspect of her writing. When writing about the past, it is true that certain liberties can be taken, but they shouldn't be taken at every turn.

Case and point. Fiona (our main protagonist) becomes a self-made millionaire over a span of ten years in New York. The first self-made female millionaire in America didn't happen until around 1920. The Tea Rose is set in the late 1800s.

There is a fair bit of romance that happens in the book. It was nice at first, but it quickly became very soap opera-esque. There were secret trysts, gay husbands and so many near hits/misses with Fiona and Joe that I wanted to tear my hair out. Multiple times. And I don't look good bald.

The characters were very one dimensional, and Fiona is a Mary Sue in the truest sense. She is a character set up just to be torn down, and there is only so much of that a reader can take. Bad things happen to good characters, it is part of writing. But piling up the bad and then pulling something good out of thin air to atone for it is weak. Your story should be able to rest on more than just bad things happening to the characters, and this one didn't.

Writing and language wise, I found The Tea Rose very enjoyable. I liked that the accents were spelled out, I liked the backdrop for the story. The prose was very descriptive, and the details were succulent. I just didn't care overly much for the story itself. Some things didn't make sense to me, like how Fiona only met other foreigners in New York, and never any Americans. As a millionaire, you would think she would have business dealings with all sorts of people.

The Bottom Line: A story with a lot of promise that failed to deliver. The main characters get themselves into stupid situations, and then the author writes fantastical compensation for them. I might read the second book, depending on the description, but it is not high on my list priority-wise.

[gailq_4 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Beautiful book, that once it has drawn you in makes it hard to put down. One of my favourites.

[thetometraveller · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is a well-researched, well written historical novel set in 1888 England and America. The author brings her settings and characters to life, even managing to incorporate Jack the Ripper into the story. The heroine starts with nothing in the London slums and the reader joins her in her journey to success. I loved the book and found it hard to put down.

[dchamp_4 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Predictable and way, way too long.

[marianne_victoria_4 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I didn't think it would be possible, but I love this book even more than I loved Winter Rose, which I happened to read first. If you love historical fiction, romance, and a really good plot, then give Tea Rose a try!

[andiee_3 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was one of the best books i have ever read! it was so romantic and i found it really easy to get in touch with the characters and become them.

[quirkylibrarian · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Fiona Finnegan is a strong and stubborn young woman making her way after the death of her parents, brother and baby sister. Left alone and destitute in London in the late 1800's she must care for a younger brother, escape the clutches of her father's union-busting murderer and the heartbreak of her young lover leaving her for another woman. Making her way to New York City she becomes wealthy, marries a syphilitic gay man and financially ruins her nemesis through a series of increasingly unlikely manipulations of circumstance. An overlong and way overdone novel: one wonders where was her editor? Beach read.

[janismack · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book held my interest because the caracters were quite engaging. The story was interesting especially the sidebar about Jack the Ripper and all the poor families in London at the end of the 18th century.

[kazevedo_53 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I thought the book was overly long, formulaic, and totally predictable.

[booklovers2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Just started this series by Jennifer Donnelly - listening to it on audible audio - definitely an interesting read - late 1800's in England - Jack the Ripper, the consequences of dock workers starting a union, the hardworking Irish family life style, the tea business and the dreams of a young couple all come to life in this book. Definitely a character driven book that keeps you routing for them until the last page. Book 1 of a 3 Book series.

[a_reader_of_fictions · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Tea Rose spans a decade and two continents. It is first and foremost a love story, but don't let that fool you. As they say, "the course of true love never did run smooth." Joe and Fiona have been best friends all their lives, having grown up on the same street. They've been in love from the time they had such thoughts, and they both have huge ambitions to run a shop and have all the money they could ever need.

This is a story of poverty, of unions, of economics, of business. Fiona's family with three strong men to earn money in their various jobs can barely get by. They aren't able to save any money. Fiona works too, but women make a pittance compared to men, even though they spend just as much time at work. The employers refuse to pay more than a few pennies to their workers. Everyone has an air of desperation about them, except for the few folks who have all the money because they've squeezed the poor folks dry.

This is a horror story. In case East London doesn't sound terrifying enough, you will not be disappointed. Jack the Ripper's there too. And the cops can't find anything to figure out who he is or how to stop him. At least, he's only killing prostitutes, but who knows when that will change. Besides, how comforting is that when everyone you know is just a missed day of work or two away from that level of desperation?

This is a story of tragedy. Donnelly will get you excited and hopeful, and then stomp on your heart, light it on fire and then drown it. Even in the depths of despair when it seems the characters (and thus you, bound up in their fate) will never make it, she manages to kindle inspiration and hope. Completely beautiful.

The spark that makes all the parts of this novel come together lies in the characters, particularly Fiona. These are people who will stop at nothing to get what they want. Nothing can prevent Fiona from becoming a success; she will overcome any hardship thrown at her. She is undoubtedly one of the strongest heroines in literature. I may not always agree with her choices, as she is much more forgiving than I could ever be, but I always admire her spunk and intelligence and drive.

Donnelly made me cry. She made me angry, frustrated, terrified. She made me smile and left me feeling somewhat hopeful. You have to love a book that can run you through the gamut of human of emotions. This book is amazingly well-written and complex. This is historical fiction at its finest.

[tiffy_reads · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book had it all: love, tragedy, murder, suspense, tea and triumph. It was a pure delight to read. I'm glad my Bestie got me this book for christmas. Can't wait to read the next book in the series! :)