You can officially talk about The Seven Rings (and the entire trilogy) today!
Sonya, Trey, Cleo and Owen have a huge job ahead of them when The Seven Rings opens. What did you think of the plan and how it played out? What did you think of Clover’s musical accompaniment? What did you think of the end?
This is the safe space to talk about all things related to The Lost Brides Trilogy so if you haven’t read it, be very aware that spoilers are ahead.
Laura
A quick PS: Shared this in the newsletter and on socials. Sorry I forgot to post here:
When creative women are in a haunted space, they create. Last July, we were inspired by the ghosts at The Greenbrier. Nora and I along with Kat (cinematographer) and Sarah (action figure) spent a fun couple hours filming video for The Seven Rings. Nora and I ran up and down the hallway to open and shut doors. Sarah moved as directed. Kat kept the camera steady. And we came up with this.
This may be answered in the 3rd book, which i haven’t gotten to yet, but I’m wondering about the number 7. In magick, 3 and 7 are numbers of completion, to wind up a spell. So if 7 brides, 7 rings, wouldn’t that complete Hester’s spell, making it more difficult to break, to get rid of Hester? And what would happen if Sonya couldn’t break that spell? Would Poole brides still die one each generation?
I think you should read the book for those answers.
I’ve finished the book, and still have some questions, right now mostly about the mirror. We know it allowed Angus and Colin to sort of communicate, and it is key to the resolution, but where did it come from? Did it appearcin any other generation? And after the resolution, did it just go away again? Why the design of preditors around the glass? Or is the mirror just a McGuffin and never explained?
It was the mirror Astrid was standing in front of when Hester killed her. Her blood on the mirror is what gave it its power. The predators around it were a form of protection for those who used the mirror. Kept Hester from being able to use it to travel through.
Just read Nostradamus, Delores cannon. A very high being gave him a mirror to communicate with others from different times. So maybe portal mirrors show up as needed.
Other than saying it was the one Astrid was standing in front of when she was stabbed, there’s no other information on the mirror. My thoughts are if it’s needed again one day it would appear to someone. Otherwise I like to think it lives somewhere in the manor unseen and is just a mirror.
Good fiction require suspension of disbelief!
It didn’t matter to the story where it came from. I clearly say the mirror appeared before—Astrid on her wedding day—where her blood on the glass activates it—and to Collin and Sonya’s father. I show Sonya’s dad coming through it—in his time.
I don’t say where it went, if anywhere, after the resolution because, well, the story was resolved.
Honestly, I don’t know what sort of explanation you’re looking for. It’s a magical, mystical part of a novel.
Hello! I’ve been reading your books for 30+ years & you NEVER disappoint! I have a question about The Seven Rings. I am new to this “space” so sorry if this has been answered before. Is Sutton Grove a fictional book trilogy? I’ve searched for the books & for the author. I only found 2 kids books written by her. Please help & thanks!
Yes, Sutton Grove is an author Nora made up. You’re not the only person to ask! 😊 -Laura
I have to say I have been reading Nora Roberts and JD Robb books for years and this Trilogy is a massive disappointment. Discussion is more focused on recipes, drinking coke and moving furniture than any decent plot line. I thought they’d been written by AI. There’s grammatical errors and so so so repetitive. The past tense of shine is shone, not shined! The sun shone through window not shined through the window. This happens many times and definitely grates the nerves! Definitely no where near the standard expected from Nora Roberts at all.
Nora has said many times that she knows not every book will suit every reader. You are entitled to an opinion but to come onto an author’s personal blog and say you thought her book was written by AI is disrespectful and just provocative.
-Laura
There’s no way this was written by AI. Nora is an incredible writer. You don’t have to like everything she writes but don’t disrespect her.
First, I write my own books, and your comment is stunningly insulting. Because you didn’t like a book, it’s AI? Is that the new ghost writer accusation?
My books are my work and something I work hard at every day. You don’t like my work, that’s fine. But you don’t get to spread lies about my ethics and integrity.
And you’re also wrong in the grammar area, too. Shined and shone are both acceptable as the past tense of shine. Look it up. (Pretty sure both my editor and I know our grammar.)
Next time, check yourself before you spout off.
I’m sorry you are so offended by some criticism. Myself and several friends have read this series and we felt that compared to nearly every other book of yours we have read, of which there are many, these were very different. Writing style, language, plot, the repetition of many aspects and the focus on meals, home decor, furnishings and the minutiae of meal times etc. seemed the main part of the story rather than the actual plot. I would have thought someone of your standing and experience could handle some constructive criticism. I said it seemed like AI could have written it, not that it did. Thank you for the personal and very speedy response. I’m sorry you are so offended by one of your long time and loyal readers having something negative to say about a book.
How does “I thought they’d been written by AI” in your first comment translate to “it seemed like AI could have written it” in the second? Saying you didn’t like aspects of the story — or the entire thing — is fine. You are entitled to that opinion. But it’s not constructive criticism to bring anything about AI into the conversation. -Laura
There was no constructive criticism in that comment and accusation. It was an insult to my integrity. You didn’t like the book, thats fine. Negative is also fine as not every reader will enjoy every book I write.
But to insinuate it was AI is uncalled for. I don’t have to take that kind of crap from anyone, especially some anonymous someone on the internet, who has many friends—and can’t admit she made a mistake.
I had a purpose for every scene in the book, whether you liked it, didn’t, whether you understood the purpose, or didn’t.
I value my readers, value and respect them. Saying something I worked hard on—whether it suited you or not—could be done by AI demeans my respect for the reader. Because anyone who uses AI to create, respects no one. Not even themselves.
And a reminder. You were wrong about the grammar, too.
Dear Caz… Buddha say, “Don’t. be a dick!” Love, Deborah
I just have to add any reader who believes a writer needs or wants their `constructive criticism’ is stunningly entitled and full of themselves.
Don’t like a book, say you didn’t, maybe why you didn’t, all good. But you, dear reader, aren’t the writer. The only constructive criticism I accept is from my editor or my agent.
As—and the comments on this blog illustrate—readers disagree on what they like or don’t about a book as reading is subjective to the individual.
Apologies for causing such offence regarding the AI comment, I certainly can appreciate the hard work and effort you put into every book. As far as the grammar goes; shone and shined are not used interchangeably in English-english they are more specific than that but I do understand that this is not the case with American -English grammar.
My use of shined was one of the reasons you complained about the book, specifically, and issued a lecture on grammar.
I’m an American writer, who writes in America, therefore my usage was correct. You were wrong, but can’t admit it without qualifications.
Any reader who insinuates I use AI rather than write my own books is going to get a seriously clap back from me. AI companies steal my work, and the work of other writers, artists, photographers daily. The last thing I’ll tolerate is the implication I use AI rather than write my books through my time, effort and skill.
Don’t like something I’ve written, fine. You’re entitled to say so. I’m always sorry a reader’s disappointed. That’s exactly how I’d have answered you.
You’re not entitled to make ugly assumptions with impunity.
I have been reading her books well before the invention of AI. I don’t think that’s a platform anyone from both mine and her generation would rely on for anything like this. Writing is an art and can’t be properly replicated by a machine.
I have loved every one of her books. I will state there are certain aspects of certain books I haven’t like but didn’t make me hate the book overall. I can completely understand the book not being your cup of tea but let’s please keep the comments classy.
Go Nora! This English teacher backs you up!!
Well I loved all three books. What a cliffhanger when I read book one and discovered I had to wait 10 months for book 2.. love nora roberts books and this trilogy is great.
The use of “shined” vs. “shone” in this example is not incorrect according to most sources. There are times when the use of one over the other is preferable, but it is widely accepted that the two words are interchangeable. Whether you like the usage in the book or not is your opinion, and you are free to share. As for your thoughts on AI, I’m sure that Ms. Roberts is too much of a professional to resort to its use in a novel. I personally very much enjoyed this book and find comfort in the day-to-day details that she includes. I have read (and thoroughly enjoyed!) every single one of her books.
My thoughts exactly.
I hope this will not be the way her books are going to be in the future – although I have been wondering for some time when her – up till now seemingly endless – creativity will be exhausted…
I want to precise my previous comment: the seven rings series seems to me less structured, clear and driven than the other (recent) Nora’s series and books, which I enjoyed very much and many of them reread several times over the years.
Most of her books (with the exception of the early novels) are a wonderful treat for me and I wish her all the best!
Seriously? Syntax and grammer will always be influenced by authors upbringing and origin. If you don’t like, just say, I prefer authors’ other books, rather than disparage with AI guff. And yes even how I write has been influenced by the fact I hale from Wales UK and I can’t spell for a ha’penny!! Nora, you rule and my dogs drool, absolutely love In Death series and I’ve already pre ordered Stolen in Death in audible…can’t wait.
Love the video of the Seven Rings. . . it’s exactly as I imagined the house would look. You guys nailed it! Can’t wait to read my pre-ordered book this weekend!
I would love to see the video. Can you steer me in the right direction?
Nikki,
I just added it to the post. Enjoy!
Laura
Thank you!
Video. Where can I find that
It’s at the end of this post above. -Laura
The book cover art is just stunning. I’m blown away ❤️
Omg the wolf!!!!!! Didn’t see that coming. Well played Ms. Roberts. I can’t wait to see how this unfolds.
I just finished the book! I don’t remember a wolf – where was it or are you referring to Brandon?
Chapter 3. The wolf is conjured by Dobbs to scare Cleo and Sonya when they’re out at night with the pets.
Loved the first two books. Can’t wait to read the last one. Love your books Nora.
I get the 3rd book today and I can’t wait!! I have been dying for this book to come out! Love the video too!
Mine won’t arrive until Thursday. Waaaaah!
I’m loving the seven rings on chapter five . I love all the characters even the ghosts . The video of the house is exactly how I imagined it. Thank you Nora Roberts your imagination is our adventure.
I just started the J.D. Robb series
Love them too . Thank you from Australia 🇦🇺
Loved books one and two…I am on pins and needles waiting for book 3…and hope to see you Thursday night at TTP for The Roper Romp.
Spoiler: I was wondering when Winter would get the earrings Collin had left her, and boom they finally showed up at the end. Glad Sonya’s ex finally got his comeuppance too. All in all a very good wrap up to the series!
The Brandon smackdown was a bonus I didn’t expect but so appreciated
Just received the book today. Can’t wait to see how things work out and what will happen.
Is there a floor plan available for Lost Bride Manor? Thank you!
No. That’s not something we’ll do. -Laura
I think the set up of the manor pretty well described in the books. I sure don’t know how to create a floor plan. I just write books!
I bet a fan who is good at drawing those up could submit one to you after reading the books? I have a vision of the house in my head (especially the staircase) but unfortunately I’m not talented in drawing plans either.
I hope this isn’t a spoiler, but I’d love to see a sketch og Colin Poole’s brand that he uses to put his mark on all the things he builds.
Spoilers are allowed here! But we won’t have a sketch. That’s something for us to imagine on our own. -Laura
Believe me, I can’t sketch. And it’s described as best I could.
I fell asleep listening to Audible last night. NO REFLECTION on the story AT ALL!!! I was just brain dead. That’s OK. I like going back to listen again. I can only listen to several chapters at a time due to work, but I’m hoping to finish tonight.
Then I’ll immediately start over again to see if I missed anything – & because I’m not ready to let go yet!!!
I just finished on audible and already want to start it again. Which I do the first time I read the first book too!
I always read the new book, then go back and read the series again, in full. This is also after I reread the other books while waiting lol.
As do I 😄
I read the third book in such a hurry because I needed to know how the story ends. Now I’ve started the whole series again from the beginning.
I just finished it and am about to read it again as well!!
Me too! Actually, I’m about 3/4 of the way through my second reading and am picking up things I missed when I read it the first time
I like how both women stand up and are not pushovers. And not too stubborn to ask for help or accept it.
It’s a great book as usual.
I don’t know how she can top these last 3 series . Do you have an idea of what’s next series about ?
Now I am waiting for February for next in death book . Already pre-order on Audible .
Thank you Nora for fantastic writing .
Let’s wait, just a bit, before talking about the next trilogy. I hope you’ll enjoy it—-but I’ve barely finished Book One!
You are such a great writer. How do you do that ? Time to write, time to be a perfect grandma , time to be a good cook , time to do things as a “normal” woman . I so admire you. Thanks for all the great books and really looking forward to the next triology .
Dancing with excitement!!
Dancing with excitement for the next trilogy. Thank you for such wonderful stories.
Nora,
You are amazing! My husband surprised me last year with a stay at Inn Boonsboro. It was amazing! We stayed in the Elizabeth and Darcy room. I’d love to stay in Wesley and Buttercup next. The tea for that room was awesome.
I also got to meet your husband and order books signed by you at the bookstore.
As a writer you are prolific! I’m drawn into every novel of yours I read. The characters come to life and stay with me.
Now i need some advice: what book do you suggest I give my husband to read so he can understand my appreciation for your work?
How about Nightwork or The MacGregors ?
They are some of my favorites he might like.
Wow…..just finished the 3rd Book. I can say I am definitely not disappointed 😍
Loved it.
And Laura – thank you for the new playlist
Wow, a very good ending. Not what I expected and definitely not a repeat of anything that Nora has done. Great job!
Wow!!! What a finale. Absolutely fabulous end to the trilogy
Well, the mailman got my hopes up then dashed them. Book delivered a day early… to someone else’s box
Still don’t have my book – coming tomorrow – and I’m getting really excited. Printed out the family tree, and I’m a bit confused. There are names on the tree I don’t recognize, i.e., Carlotta, Moira . Maybe I missed them or will they come up in the new book? Happy reading everyone!!
Carlotta comes up early, she weeps every night in the nursery. Moira I know is early too but I can’t remember where!
Moira is a second wife after first wife(bride) died. Read the third book and you’ll put it together!
Finished listening to it, heavens what a ride! Just when I think Nora can’t get any better, she does.
It is so good! I love that Nora had fun writing it! I ordered the hardcover from my nieces bookstore in Grapevine Tx. but couldn’t wait so ordered the audible also.
Just finished the audiobook today! First off I love the voice actress who did all three books such amazing job.
This has been one of my favorite trilogies of Nora Robert’s, mainly because it was set up differently. I love the mystery and intrigued.
Spoiler:
I bawled at the end when she got to see and talk to ghost of her Dad. I’m coming up on the three year anniversary of loosing my Dad and felt every emotion in that moment.
I loved the 7 Rings. I thought it was a perfect ending to the Trilogy and well worth the wait. I particularly loved the part where Sonya had time where she could talk with her father and again when the rings were returned and the brides asked to remain in the manor.
Did Jack and Molly stay too?
Love the Seven rings audiobook, so wrapped up in it had tears in my eyes. The ending made the wait so worthwhile. Am in love with Owen, absolutely loved his character
Oh, God, but I’ve missed Cleo and her voice on the audiobook! ❤️
What a fantastic story. I loved it all but especially the ending.
Am I the only one who looked to see if there was a Sutton Grove series of books? lol always looking for something to read between Nora’s new releases. Loving this one so far, I’ve skipped past the comments to avoid the spoilers so will come back to read them all once I’m done!
I love that Ms. Roberts has diversity in her books. Diversity of deep meaningfull friendships and love. Many authors skip that with just vague references and small interactions. I so appreciate Ms. Roberts writing. And this final install u is EXCELLENT!!!
I think I have read everything you have written, and I have re-read most everything multiple times. So real, big time fan here. As you have moved away some from romance, I find myself adding scenes on my head! I think Owen was an amazing man. I mean wow! So, I created additional Owen /Cleo scenes in my head. And I must say, thank goodness Sonya had Owen for her last 7 trips through the mirror!
Thank you. It was a lovely story and excellent finish.
Thank you. It was a lovely story and excellent ending.
Wow! Worth every second of the wait! Love, love, love Clover!
I felt that the book dragged on and on. I liked the ending, but if you got rid of the fluff this could have been one book, not a trilogy. I liked the prior two trilogies better.
I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy the trilogy. Not every book or trilogy or series will resonate with every reader.
However from a creative POV, there’s no way this trilogy could’ve been condensed into one book. I think if you were a writer, had written books and trilogies yourself, you’d understand that. As well as understanding it’s off-putting for someone to tell a writer how or what to write to meet their satisfaction.
What you consider fluff, others—including myself, consider storyline and characterization.
Way to explain it Nora! You are the Queen!
Well said Nora. The 3 books were brilliantly written. I did start to get a little sad knowing I only had 100 pages left until the conclusion. Once finished I cried. It was like saying goodbye to good friends. Tomorrow I shall start book 1 again. Thank you xx
That’s my feeling on it too. i don’t want to tell them goodbye! What some consider fluff, I consider character development so rich it feels like I know them. They’re beautifully written!
I haven’t yet finished reading the book since I get distracted and go on the internet to find the pictures of the furniture they are finding. All those beautiful antique pieces. Like the playlist you should have a picture book of the furniture.
I was searching for the book series(es) that were discussed
Outstanding Read! I’ve already reread all my favorite bits again and am now starting my slow savouring reread from the beginning. Thank You Nora from the bottom of my heart for all the joy you’ve given me and my Mom over the years with the sharing of your genius with words and you very fertile imagination. Mom would have love this one. Her last favorite was the 4 Bride books before she passed. Looking forward to the next In-Death this winter. Already preordered 😉
Laura, bless her, put the three playlists together. I not only couldn’t have done it, but wouldn’t have taken all that time. She also did the family tree—again something I wouldn’t and couldn’t take the time to do.
A picture book for the furniture joins the readers’ wish list for this trilogy that includes a floor plan of the manor and a sketch of Owen’s brand. I also get requests for recipes for food from the books.
I just write the books, and it’s really all I want, and have time to do! But I do take it as a fine compliment that readers get that involved in what I write.
Once I started The Seven Rings, I could not put it down. I love how Nora uses women that just get stronger and support each other. I really loved it when her former fiancee got beat out of a major account by Sonya herself and then when he tried to weasel in again, got booted out by Clover. This was worth the wait.
I laughed hysterically when Clover booted him out and Jack threw the ball at him. Brilliant moment!
And it’s of note that Sonya KNEW they had her back, and tried to warn him. They were a team!
Hi,
Love the references to other authors in Nora Roberts’ books.
I’m having trouble locating The Sutton Grove Series or any information about Joyce B Landon.
Can you help “steer”me in the right direction?
Pun intended.
Carrie
They aren’t real. I made up the author and series name.
Crap. Mention Louise Penny next time, and the Three Pines series…l
The only thing I disliked about this one is that now I am done and have to wait a while for a new book! Thank yout Laura for the family tree! And always thank you to Nora for the many books over the years and continuing to write and develop characters who make us laugh, cry, hate, fear and then celebrate!
Just finished the last book. All three are amazing. Thank you. I thought it was cute that Trey kept calling her Cutie. I was sad it all had to end. Thanks for all you write.
And I love the voice infection from Trey when he called her ‘cutie’ – with so much affection.
I think I’ve read everything Nora has written, minus a few of the first publications that I cannot get my hands on. I waited with bated breath for this one to come in the mail as I really enjoyed the first two installments.
That being said, I really like the format of this trilogy. Having two main couples that spread over the three books was an interesting change from the format that we have come to expect. It gave the characters much more time to develop and a chance for the reader to get to know them. I hope this concept is something that we see again at some point in the future, whether it be in a trilogy or a quartet of books.
I wasn’t a fan of the ending, it seemed anti-climactic to me, and it felt rushed. I’m not sure what I wanted, but to me this one fell just a bit short. But, I also know that not every nuance of each book will appeal to everyone. This was how she saw it play out. I couldn’t have written it any differently, as I’m not a writer in this capacity.
A solid 4.5* out of 5 for the book and 4.75* for the series. I can’t wait for the next one.
I liked it too! In fact as I was finishing the second book was trying to figure out who would be the romantic interest in the third book. It was a nice change and really let the characters show more range.
I agree. I really enjoyed the series and the characters. When I was listening to the audiobook I was surprised that there was about an hour left, and we hadn’t really moved to the finale. Maybe I was expecting a bigger battle?
Absolutely loved this trilogy, as I do all of Nora’s books. Just one quick question, not sure if I missed it when reading, where do the current Pooles (Owen, Hugh, Clarice, etc) belong on the family tree, who were their parents/grandparents? Thanks!
I’ve been a reader, admirer and fan since the beginning. I may not be in the 250 club, but I own Irish Thoroughbred to Hidden Nature…minus a few. Anyway, I was disheartened and sad that anyone could be so heartless to insinuate that artificial methods were used in the trilogy. I hope they have been educated and are thoroughly sorry.
I loved the story of Sonya, Cleo. Trey, Owen and all the souls in the Manor. An enchanting place for sure. Thank you Ms. Roberts for the many years of entertainment, mystery, and joy. You give us a place to go, in our minds,
whenever we open a book. I will always be a fan of yours.
If it’s not on the family tree Laura created—and put on this blog—I didn’t mention them by name. If you haven’t seen the family tree, it’s a couple blog posts back. It’s nicely done.
Absolutely was NOT expecting that little drop in by Brandon. I was downright cackling when Jack threw the ball and Clover yelled at him. Well played!
I’m trying to read this slowly and savor it, but it’s just so hard to stop 😂
I had a possible story line in my head that Brandon would show up and Hester would possess him/inhabit his body or something. I thought that might be the finale. I liked Nora’s way of dealing with him much better because he got his comeuppance and it made me laugh when he got kicked in the butt my a ghost! 😂👻
I had a feeling that Brandon was going to show up in this book. He’s a great antagonist. But I honestly thought he was going to try to stalk and harass her a bit more, or try to sneak into the house just to find a bunch of ghosts ready to take him out and send him to a mental institution. I was a bit disappointed when his part in it was over so quickly, but it was SO satisfying to finally see him brought down a few pegs and put in his place.
I think i an the only person who didn’t like it when trey called her cutie! Don’t know if it was read in the audiobook but sometimes I found it controlling and condescending but think he was a good guy. I might be just the solicitor in him🤣. Listened to all the books twice each but might have to do a third, once I have finished the Collector. Working my way through all the books but this trilogy and Come Sundown ( still cry everything I listen to it) are my favourite up to now xx
This is exactly what I attempted to point out to the AI commenter. What one reader likes, another doesn’t. What this reader finds interesting, that reader finds tedious, even annoying. Reading’s a personal experience. And, as you illustrated, it’s easy to state something you didn’t like about a book without being rude and accusatory.
This is true and also it might go on how the reader is feeling. I have listened to the first two twice months and months ago, and this never bothered me. But it is only when I re-listened before the release of the third book it did! So might be something in my subconscious that is reacting to the phase!
But I have been team Owen all along lol. Just love his laid back but very caring attitude 😍
Maddy, same here with the “cutie” nickname. There’s nothing wrong with it, but it does sound a little like Trey is talking to a child when he calls her that. I really loved the main characters (and the ghosts, minus Dobbs, of course), but Trey slightly annoyed me in this one, particularly when he and Sonya are having a bit of a heated discussion and he gets pretty disrespectful for a bit. Never apologizes for insulting her, but he essentially does a 180 with the conversation and all is forgotten/forgiven by Sonya. Just a little frustrating there, but I suppose there’s some realism to that in the sense that most of us probably have overlooked a few indiscretions made by people we love!
Loved the series as a whole, but the first one is definitely my personal favorite.
I first discovered Nora Roberts’ books about forty years ago in a used bookstore. As a single mother/student, they were a welcome treat and have provided so much companionship and enjoyment through the years. When I was diagnosed with terminal cancer in August 2024, I thought that I wouldn’t get to finish the Brides trilogy but I have only 60 pages left and reading this last book has been like sitting with old friends. Thank you, Nora, for all of the love and heart you’ve poured into every book.
Thank you for a great trilogy. It was wonderful. I expected Brandon to show up and he was dealt with perfectly. One thing was left undone for me. What happened to Jack? He wasn’t part of the staff so he wouldn’t have been with them at the wedding. He’s a little boy so he might have left to find his family.
One word about TTP. I really appreciate the care they take with each book. Putting them in bubble wrap for shipping is a great idea. The pages don’t get messed up and the books arrive in perfect shape. Thanks BW and staff.
I like to think he was there with all the brides/grooms because he stayed. I didn’t feel he needed a specific mention at the end.
I agree and loved the mystery of it. I love that a story can take place off the page.
I can’t wait to read the “The Seven Rings”. It is supposed to be delivered on the 28th. Reading the comments has given me a lot to look forward to! Nora is my favorite author!
She has taken me to places I have never seen in real life, but I have seen and experienced through her books!
I also reread the books when I finish them! 🤗
I just finished the trilogy and thought it was absolutely wonderful! I’ve been amazed at all the thought and detail put into the story. I very much appreciate all the hard work! I’m sad the story is over, and I’ll miss all the characters, but am looking forward to reading the books all over again!
I absolutely loved the ending of the book Hester Dobbs got what she deserved. I also loved the fact that there was an epilogue with Trey and Sonya’s wedding. The book was everything I hoped for.
I loved the books and I want more! More of Hester’s story. More of the LBs stories! More Cleo! More Pooles! Why them? Why that house? More history.
I appreciate the enthusiasm, but I don’t have any more stories to tell about the Lost Brides, or Cleo, or the Pooles. Everything I wanted to write about them is in the three books. I’m glad you enjoyed the trilogy.
To answer both questions—Why not?
I want to know Hester’s backstory. Why was she obsessed with the Manor? Did she have a connection? I kept waiting for the genealogy to show Cleo was somehow connected to her.
I guess she was obsessed with it because that’s how I conceived of her, and the story. She had no connection to the manor other than that obsession, and none to Cleo.
Hi
I have often wondered if you live in a mansion or like Sonya you dreamed of a sprawling house. I have dreamed of a sprawling house for myself. But I can only dream of them through your wonderful books. Thank you.
I remember theses wonderful books can you think of any others?
They are all favorites of mine.
The MacGregors series
I forget what they called Daniel MacGregor’s fortress.
In the Garden Trilogy
Roz in Harper House
The Bride Quartet
Parker Brown’s family mansion
I can’t remember what they called it.
I also think that Harry Booth in Night Work has a big house maybe not a mega mansion.
The Quinn’s live in a big house too. Maybe not a mansion though.
I have a fairly big house, and you could say it sprawls. But it’s not a mansion.
How do you do it, Nora?! How do you write in such a way that makes us feel as if WE are in your story? Every time I read one of your books, especially ones that involve a group of people (family & friends), I feel like I am part of that group, experiencing the same feelings and emotions as them. And I am so sad to say goodbye to them at the end.
I absolutely loved this trilogy and devoured the last book. It was over too fast because of that. Thank you, Nora, for all that you do to give us such beautiful stories to take part in, time and again.
I enjoyed this trilogy so much! I may have missed it, but I was wondering too what Jack chose at the end?
I just finished and it didn’t explicitly say. But with the trust he developed with Sonya and how much he enjoyed the animals, I like to think he chose to stay.
I wondered myself a lot how that would play out, especially Clover and Molly, and I’m so glad they stayed.
Me too!
I’ve decided he stayed. He was happy with Yoda and the art supplies Sonya gave him so he stayed.
I just finished last night and am so sad it’s over. I loved these books so much! Nora/Laura, I know a few works in the past have been turned into movies. I wondered if there’s any chance of these ones being next?
Initially, that’s not up to me. A production company has to be interested enough to take an option. And we’d go from there. And the from there is a long, winding process.
I said this in another forum, but Netflix has these great mini -series, where there is 6 or more episodes to a season. This way the story can be told in more detail than in a movie. There are three books, so maybe 3 seasons, 6 or so episodes per season? I think the special effects could be absolutely amazing.
Of course, someone else’s vision of who the characters look like may not align with the readers, so there may be disappointment there, but IMHO this is an excellent series that could reach those people who don’t like to read, but would rather watch a show.
Is there a list of the books that have been turned into movies? I would love to see some of these movies even if they’re not as good as the books.
Angels Fall, Montana Sky, Blue Smoke and Carolina Moon, Northern Lights, Midnight Bayou, High Noon, Tribute and
Carnal Innocence were all on Lifetime. Sanctuary was a CBS-TV movie.
All were filmed before streaming was a constant, so I’m not sure where to find them to watch. -Laura
Just finished The Seven Rings, and I gotta say… Thank you for another amazing series!! I loved each book and downloaded each of Clover’s Clever Playlists on Spotify. I can’t wait to reread the series with the music in the background. My only question is: Is there a follow-up cookbook? Winter’s pot roast, jalapeno hushpuppies, Corrine’s pound cake, Anna’s coffeecake…
I want the pot roast recipe!!!
Nora lays the recipe out step by step in Inheritance. Just follow Sonya’s actions. -Laura
She doesn’t identify which herbs, and I’m not a good enough cook to even guess. She also says it cooks for hours, but how many hours? I’ve heard of people putting a roast on the oven for 30 mins at 500 degrees and then turning the oven off, but even then I don’t know for how many hours!
I’d really appreciate if you could advise.
I have to go back and look to see if I can fill in. -Laura
Pour a bottle, drink a bottle!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the trilogy.
I don’t write cookbooks—a very specific skill (and one I don’t have). So I write novels.
I was hoping for the recipes too. This is the second trilogy I have read. My daughter turned me on to you.
Right? A whole bottle of wine for a roast? So tempted. Actually did try the chili oil and pepper jack grilled cheese (which may have been from Mind Games). It was delish!
We can leave the cookbook writing to Marco!
Just finished! I was going to try to wait to read it until this weekend but I couldn’t.
One question, Jack was not mentioned at the end, does this mean he moved on?
Nora,
Probably one of the best trilogy’s I’ve read. I do say that after reading each trilogy though. 😂 How do you come up for ideas for your books?
I’ve always wanted to write but never had the talent for it. My son (who is a high school English teacher) really wants to give it a go and he’s probably far more equipped for it than I would ever be. Any advice on how he should get started?
I just finished The Seveb Ribgs, I picked it up from the library after Thanksgiving & had to finish some books before I read it .
Wow 💜. I enjoyed it, savored every page .
As people ask what happens after the last page is over .
I like to think that Sonya & Trey are having a happy life in their manor & Cleo & Owen are also enjoying a happy life . Perhaps Sonya has twin girls & names one Clover & the other Winter 😊
They are more than likely enjoying themselves & a never a dull moment at Poole manor with friends & family . This is my take & I am sure others have their own ideas on what may come next in their book lives on the Beautiful New England Coast of Maine .
I am curious to know what start of a new trilogy 2026 will bring .
Thank you Nora for writing a very delightful series . Thank you Laura for all the social media you do .
I purposely forced myself to not read the first book in The Lost Brides trilogy until all three were out, I literally purchased all three yesterday and have finished them. Nora never disappoints and this trilogy is amazing. Now I’m not one for giving spoilers so I’ll just say she pulled another amazing story out of thin air and while I love all of Nora’s books including the ones that she writes under JD Robb I tend to like the ones that have a supernatural feel to them more and this one was right up there with the three sisters and all of the amazing books that Nora has written. I love to get lost in a story and I love that I can reread and have reread all of Nora’s books that I own which digitally number in the hundreds and I always find something new when rereading them. So without any spoilers I will say that this trilogy has just the right amount of supernatural and love and having to conquer bad with good and ends in a very loving and good way.
Nora, how do you prepare for a trilogy? Do you have the ideas for all three books set out from the very beginning, or do ideas come to you as you write? I wonder if you start in one direction and then an idea comes to mind which takes you in a completely different direction.
Inn Boonsboro, Dragon Heart legacy, the Gallaghers, Cousins O’Dwyer (and now the Lost Bride) trilogies are my fall back books – I’ve read each series countless times – and each book is so fresh and different from the others.
I’m so impressed – and delighted – that you come up with such amazing storylines, for all your books, trilogies and stand alone alike.
I always wonder that, too. The more times I read the Dragon Heart Legacy, the crazier it seems to me that she can keep all that detail in her head without an outline
I have the basic idea, the main characters, the setting, the thread that needs to weave through all three books to be resolved at the end. I don’t have details. They come as it goes. Things will change and evolve as it goes—that the challenge and the pleasure of writing a trilogy.
I have notes, and check back. Most often I proof the galleys for one book before I start, of while I’m into the next. So more notes.
Thank you, Nora, for creating characters who have become my friends, including Sonya, Cleo, Eve, Roarke, and Sloan (from Hidden Nature last May). I read my first NR book in 2002 and my first JDR soon after. I don’t know how I could have made it through the past 23 challenging years without your books to read and re-read. I’m sad that you receive criticism suggesting that you have ghost-writers or AI to help with your books. Your work ethic is astonishing. Thank you for continuing to create new friends, and a chance to revisit old friends, with each book. My one wish is that these friends didn’t drink so much alcohol. But we take friends as they are, and I’m deeply grateful for them.
I was a bit disappointed in this trilogy, I felt it lacked the punch of The Awakening trilogy and even Mind Games, which I loved, but as always they were ‘Nora’ books and I will continue to wait impatiently for the next one.
The first two books left me on my the edge of my seat and had to reread them before starting the third. Really loved the story and the characters were awesome. I really enjoyed that the trilogy stuck with the same main characters. I really hope you do more stories like that.
I thoroughly loved this series! The Clover character had me enthralled, and I really enjoyed the insertion of the songs into the story and how well they fit. I especially loved that “At Last” was used at the end because that is one of my all-time favorite songs, and the fact that clover is in the lyrics had me grinning from ear to ear!
Just finished “The Seven Rings” today–I left it until after Christmas to read, to avoid any distractions. 🙂 I, too, feel like saying goodbye to friends at this point, I am so grateful for the detailed characterization, as it made me truly connect with each of the characters, including those sweet pets! I love how Clover really came into her own in this book as well. Thank you so much Nora for once again creating a world that we can get lost in, if only for a little while. And thank you to Laura for all that you do for us readers as well!
I saved The Seven Rings until life was calm enough to enjoy it – book, blanket, beagle – and I have to say that it was so very enjoyable. I loved the detailed development of each character, seen and unseen, and that Sonya and Cleo would be the eighth and ninth brides. Wrapped up with a big shiny bow!
I have to say, Cleo was such a good influence for me. Yesterday I was at an agriculture conference (we’re farmers), and both times that I stopped in the women’s restroom, a young woman was polishing the mirrors, cleaning the stalls, and making sure everything was spotless. I thanked her and complimented her excellent work, and she was visibly delighted (and slightly stunned) that someone noticed.
Cleo’s advice to Sonya reminded me to speak up more often when people are doing a good job—especially in roles that are usually thankless—and it’s amazing how much it brightens their day. So thank you, Nora, for weaving that reminder into your book. It’s something we can all use. I’m very much looking forward to the next trilogy.
I just finished binge reading the Lost Brides trilogy. I thoroughly enjoyed all of them. They are my first Nora Robert’s books and can’t wait to read more! I had one question since it never came up in the epilogue but what happened to Jack? Did he move on or did he stay at the manor?
That’s between you and your imagination and what makes Nora’s work so good