From Emanuela Cooper – author of Made in Nirvana – a new, original, compelling life-changing story.
Now available as an
AUDIOBOOK
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Three Women Lost in London
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Writing Three Women Lost in London has been a long, beautiful journey.
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While visiting her daughter’s family in their new London house, Lina spends an afternoon with her childhood friend, the rebellious Charlie.
One drink leads to another and when Lina tries to return home, things begin to go awfully wrong.
The seventy-five year old lady gets caught up in the London riots of August 2011.
In the midst of all the chaos Lina stumbles upon a path that leads her to her own personal revolution.
Aging is transformed from being an obstacle into an exciting challenge.
One drink leads to another and when Lina tries to return home, things begin to go awfully wrong.
The seventy-five year old lady gets caught up in the London riots of August 2011.
In the midst of all the chaos Lina stumbles upon a path that leads her to her own personal revolution.
Aging is transformed from being an obstacle into an exciting challenge.
“A great human revolution in just a single individual will help achieve a change in the destiny of a nation and, further, will enable a change in the destiny of all humankind.” (Daisaku Ikeda)
PART ONE
Chapter 1
The fortune teller
Chapter 1
The fortune teller
As Lina locked the front door of her terraced house, she had no inkling whatsoever that this was going to be the last day of the uneventful, comfortable life she knew so well.
As always before going out she carefully brushed her greying hair, pushing it neatly behind her ears, and applied a thin layer of pink lipstick. She selected a light straw summer hat with a checked band and picked up her fold-up shopping bag.
She decided to walk to the local supermarket, just a couple of streets away. There wasn’t really any shopping she needed but, rather than staying at home all morning, going out would help her fill the time and keep the fluttering butterflies in her stomach at bay. Lina always felt that way before an imminent journey and had never managed to get used to the uncomfortable sensation. It made her fidgety and more than a little anxious.
After the supermarket she would maybe take a short stroll and make her outing last a little bit longer, across the park not far from the Sherwood shopping area, where she had lived for the past fifty years. The friendly undulating green grounds of the park made for a relaxed, easy walk.
Pushing her empty trolley, slowly browsing through the Co-op shelves for any special offer, she caught sight of Mavis, by far her favourite neighbour, a little further down the aisle.
The most striking feature about Mavis was her sparse hair which she insisted on dying raven black. There was definitely something a little ridiculous about this, because she was closer to eighty than seventy and at that age nobody still had black hair. She gathered it in a bun at the nape of her neck and decorated it with artificial flowers that matched the colour of the cardigan she was wearing; today it was a bright turquoise.
Seeing her old neighbour, the lonely feeling nestling at the bottom of Lina’s heart disappeared instantly. ‘Look who it is! Hello Mavis, I haven’t seen you for a few days,’ she exclaimed enthusiastically.
‘Fancy that!’ a surprised Mavis burst out in her slightly hoarse voice, slapping her hand on the trolley handlebar and looking equally pleased to see her: ‘I was just thinking about you!’
Lina felt immediately more alive: ‘Were you now? What a coincidence! I’m going away tomorrow, for a week. Had you guessed it?’
‘I sort of felt that there was something going on,’ confirmed Mavis; her opaque eyes studied Lina closely. ‘I’m just getting sugar and bread before I pop and see an old friend down the road, but I am free this afternoon,’ she added quickly. ‘Why don’t you come over for a cup of tea, around four o’clock? I’ll do you a reading.’
‘That would be lovely Mavis! I look forward to it.’
‘Me too. I’m sorry I have to rush now, but I’ll see you later.’
‘That’s quite all right, my dear! I have a lot to do too,’ Lina lied. ‘I’ll see you at four!’
‘Cheerio then Lina!’
‘Cheerio my dear.’
Lina watched Mavis push her trolley down the aisle, walking briskly despite a limp. Her heart lighter, her lips upturned, she stopped in front of the sweet counter, scouring through the vast selection, musing upon her meeting.
Mavis was not just any old neighbour. Over the past fifty years that Lina had known her, she had become a famous clairvoyant who now demanded a handsome sum of money in return for her services. Little by little, her fame had grown and now innumerable people consulted her, travelling from far and wide, booking their appointments well in advance.
When people in their street saw a luxury car parked outside Mavis’s small terraced house – a two up two down, from which she had never wanted to move – everyone knew some rich celebrity was inside hanging on Mavis’s every word. One time a very famous person arrived by helicopter. Those who had recognized the elegant lady could not quite believe it was actually her. She was accompanied by a man – friend or body guard – who walked with her from the landing patch in the park over to Mavis’s door. By the time word got around, the eminent guest was departing in a flurry of dust and spinning helicopter blades, leaving them wondering whether they had all been dreaming. Mavis refused to go into any details; she only said it wasn’t the first time the lady had consulted her and that she was sworn to secrecy. She told them to keep an eye on the national tabloids and, sure enough, two days later there she was.
You could have knocked the whole neighbourhood down with a feather!
Lina didn’t really believe in the sort of things that Mavis was famous for: tarot cards, tea leaves and all that – it seemed a bit silly – but she never said anything. She was a polite person who didn’t want to offend. When she was a child her mother used to tell her to treat everyone with kindness, because one never knew whom one might need help from in life. Lina had always put this teaching into practice and it had served her well. Besides, living alone, there were days when she didn’t speak to anyone at all, and when she did, her voice came out all croaky. She enjoyed people’s company and now, after years of taking care of her husband, bringing up four children, working all the hours God sent, these days her house felt definitely too quiet; exchanging a few words with someone, especially Mavis, was precious.
After some dithering, she chose a packet of chocolate chip biscuits to share later on and, with a new sense of purpose, she paid for them and headed for the park. Now she really was busy if she wanted to go for a walk, finish her packing and have her ‘fortune’ told.
At four o’clock on the dot, biscuits in hand, Lina rang her neighbour’s doorbell.
When she expected clients, Mavis put on her eye makeup and painted her lips red, but today she opened the door wearing a faded blue and red flowery pinafore with two big pockets at the front.
‘Come on in, come on in,’ she invited Lina, holding the door open, stepping to one side to let her through.
As always, the house had its own unique smell of weak lavender and old dusty carpet, mixed with a stale odour which seeped down from upstairs where nobody, apart from Mavis herself, had ever set foot. Lina thought it would do well to open the windows and circulate some air, but the old magnolia-coloured sash windows – which opened from the bottom upwards – had been painted closed.
‘So, back to London, Lina?’
‘I’m going to visit Sofia and the family. They have so insisted that I go to see their new house.’
‘Of course! They’ll be so happy to have you there for a week... and it will do you good to get away for a while.’ Mavis hobbled towards the kitchen, shuffling her feet. ‘Take a seat,’ she pointed to the chairs around the table. ‘Did you know that the young couple three doors up are expecting their first child?’ Mavis gossiped, as she filled the kettle.
‘Oh! That’s nice. They are both good looking; they’ll have a beautiful baby.’ Lina sat herself down on the wooden chair.
‘That’s right. It will be nice to have a new baby in the street,’ Mavis agreed, moving carefully towards the gas stove. ‘And you must know that Dick, next door, is struggling to recover from a nasty bout of flu.’
‘Well, he ought to stop smoking,’ Lina replied. ‘He’s always outside his front door with a fag in his mouth. It can’t do him any good. He hasn’t been looking after himself since he’s been a widower.’
‘It’s been fifteen years since Freda died, you know?’
‘Is it really? It seems like yesterday!’ Lina mused.
‘It does; the years have flown by! Dick has been smoking like a chimney for far too long. He’ll probably die with a fag in his mouth,’ commented Mavis as a matter of fact, turning the gas on and placing the kettle on the ring. She turned around and looked at Lina with an amused smile: ‘You know what he told me the other day?’
‘What did he tell you?’ Lina’s small brown eyes were bright and sparkling with curiosity.
‘That he has ordered a coffin for his own funeral!’
‘Oh no! Why would he do that?’ Lina asked in disbelief.
The neighbour continued: ‘Apparently there is a special offer. The funeral directors on the main road are giving fifty per cent off to those pensioners who buy by the end of the month. He said it was such a bargain, he jumped at it.’ Mavis burst out laughing. She opened a cupboard door and handed Lina a small plate. ‘Put the biscuits on here Lina, we’ll have them later. He also suggested that I, and you, ought to take advantage of it, while we can!’
‘I would never do that!’ Lina declared with a shocked expression. ‘I’ve done enough for my children, bringing them into this world, bringing them up. They’ll have to sort those things out when I’m gone.’ She carefully opened the packet by pulling on the little tag and laid four biscuits on the plate. ‘Actually, I never think about my own death; it hardly ever crosses my mind. I much prefer to think about what to do with my days.’ She paused, reflecting. ‘Do you, Mavis... think about your own death?’
Mavis set out two porcelain cups on their saucers and, out of a round tin box with the scene of a pond and flying ducks, ceremoniously extracted a teaspoon full of tea leaves, which she divided equally between the two cups. ‘With my work, looking into people’s lives, death is always a possibility, but I don’t talk about it. I see change all the time, as you can imagine, but rarely do I see someone’s death... and even if I thought I did, I could never be sure,’ she explained with confidence. ‘Besides, it wouldn’t be good for business.’
‘No, I suppose not!’ Lina agreed thoughtfully. ‘Who wants to pay good money to be told they’re going to snuff it?’
‘Too right!’ said Mavis with a giggle and a mischievous look on her face. ‘You hit the nail right on the head there, Lina.’
As soon as the kettle started to whistle, Mavis poured in enough water to half fill the cups.
‘To answer your question,’ she said, ‘I don’t think of my own death often; like you, I am too busy with my life.’ She sat down heavily opposite Lina. With her elbow resting on the table, she lifted herself just enough to grab the chair with her hand between her legs and drag herself closer to the table. ‘Now let’s see what this journey is going to be like,’ she declared, giving Lina an encouraging look.
‘Let’s hope everything will go smoothly,’ Lina said. From the pocket of her cardigan she pulled out the penny she had prepared – a symbolic but necessary payment – and placed it with her arthritic hand onto the plastic tablecloth with its print of a dark, mysterious landscape. Despite not believing in this ‘tea leaves business’ she felt a nervous shiver.
As a rule she took her tea with a teaspoon of sugar and a dash of milk, but today nothing was to be added.
Mavis encouraged her: ‘Drink the tea but leave a few drops.’
‘Yes, yes, as usual.’ Lina prudently sipped the hot bitter drink until only a few drops were left in the cup, trying to prevent the leaves from going into her mouth. She then passed it to Mavis.
Mavis stared into the cup. Her expression changed; she became serious. She closed her eyes, whilst breathing in deeply through her nose. After a while she opened her eyes, rolled the cup counter-clockwise three times (Lina knew it had to be done with the left hand) and proceeded to turn it over onto the saucer. She lightly tapped on the base of the cup, letting the last drops run off before reversing it one last time. Next, she studied the leaves strewn up the sides and across the bottom of the cup.
Lina knew that, from now on, the fortune teller was not to be interrupted; no questions were to be asked until the end of the reading. She shuffled uncomfortably on her chair. Then she saw Mavis frown...................................................................................
As always before going out she carefully brushed her greying hair, pushing it neatly behind her ears, and applied a thin layer of pink lipstick. She selected a light straw summer hat with a checked band and picked up her fold-up shopping bag.
She decided to walk to the local supermarket, just a couple of streets away. There wasn’t really any shopping she needed but, rather than staying at home all morning, going out would help her fill the time and keep the fluttering butterflies in her stomach at bay. Lina always felt that way before an imminent journey and had never managed to get used to the uncomfortable sensation. It made her fidgety and more than a little anxious.
After the supermarket she would maybe take a short stroll and make her outing last a little bit longer, across the park not far from the Sherwood shopping area, where she had lived for the past fifty years. The friendly undulating green grounds of the park made for a relaxed, easy walk.
Pushing her empty trolley, slowly browsing through the Co-op shelves for any special offer, she caught sight of Mavis, by far her favourite neighbour, a little further down the aisle.
The most striking feature about Mavis was her sparse hair which she insisted on dying raven black. There was definitely something a little ridiculous about this, because she was closer to eighty than seventy and at that age nobody still had black hair. She gathered it in a bun at the nape of her neck and decorated it with artificial flowers that matched the colour of the cardigan she was wearing; today it was a bright turquoise.
Seeing her old neighbour, the lonely feeling nestling at the bottom of Lina’s heart disappeared instantly. ‘Look who it is! Hello Mavis, I haven’t seen you for a few days,’ she exclaimed enthusiastically.
‘Fancy that!’ a surprised Mavis burst out in her slightly hoarse voice, slapping her hand on the trolley handlebar and looking equally pleased to see her: ‘I was just thinking about you!’
Lina felt immediately more alive: ‘Were you now? What a coincidence! I’m going away tomorrow, for a week. Had you guessed it?’
‘I sort of felt that there was something going on,’ confirmed Mavis; her opaque eyes studied Lina closely. ‘I’m just getting sugar and bread before I pop and see an old friend down the road, but I am free this afternoon,’ she added quickly. ‘Why don’t you come over for a cup of tea, around four o’clock? I’ll do you a reading.’
‘That would be lovely Mavis! I look forward to it.’
‘Me too. I’m sorry I have to rush now, but I’ll see you later.’
‘That’s quite all right, my dear! I have a lot to do too,’ Lina lied. ‘I’ll see you at four!’
‘Cheerio then Lina!’
‘Cheerio my dear.’
Lina watched Mavis push her trolley down the aisle, walking briskly despite a limp. Her heart lighter, her lips upturned, she stopped in front of the sweet counter, scouring through the vast selection, musing upon her meeting.
Mavis was not just any old neighbour. Over the past fifty years that Lina had known her, she had become a famous clairvoyant who now demanded a handsome sum of money in return for her services. Little by little, her fame had grown and now innumerable people consulted her, travelling from far and wide, booking their appointments well in advance.
When people in their street saw a luxury car parked outside Mavis’s small terraced house – a two up two down, from which she had never wanted to move – everyone knew some rich celebrity was inside hanging on Mavis’s every word. One time a very famous person arrived by helicopter. Those who had recognized the elegant lady could not quite believe it was actually her. She was accompanied by a man – friend or body guard – who walked with her from the landing patch in the park over to Mavis’s door. By the time word got around, the eminent guest was departing in a flurry of dust and spinning helicopter blades, leaving them wondering whether they had all been dreaming. Mavis refused to go into any details; she only said it wasn’t the first time the lady had consulted her and that she was sworn to secrecy. She told them to keep an eye on the national tabloids and, sure enough, two days later there she was.
You could have knocked the whole neighbourhood down with a feather!
Lina didn’t really believe in the sort of things that Mavis was famous for: tarot cards, tea leaves and all that – it seemed a bit silly – but she never said anything. She was a polite person who didn’t want to offend. When she was a child her mother used to tell her to treat everyone with kindness, because one never knew whom one might need help from in life. Lina had always put this teaching into practice and it had served her well. Besides, living alone, there were days when she didn’t speak to anyone at all, and when she did, her voice came out all croaky. She enjoyed people’s company and now, after years of taking care of her husband, bringing up four children, working all the hours God sent, these days her house felt definitely too quiet; exchanging a few words with someone, especially Mavis, was precious.
After some dithering, she chose a packet of chocolate chip biscuits to share later on and, with a new sense of purpose, she paid for them and headed for the park. Now she really was busy if she wanted to go for a walk, finish her packing and have her ‘fortune’ told.
At four o’clock on the dot, biscuits in hand, Lina rang her neighbour’s doorbell.
When she expected clients, Mavis put on her eye makeup and painted her lips red, but today she opened the door wearing a faded blue and red flowery pinafore with two big pockets at the front.
‘Come on in, come on in,’ she invited Lina, holding the door open, stepping to one side to let her through.
As always, the house had its own unique smell of weak lavender and old dusty carpet, mixed with a stale odour which seeped down from upstairs where nobody, apart from Mavis herself, had ever set foot. Lina thought it would do well to open the windows and circulate some air, but the old magnolia-coloured sash windows – which opened from the bottom upwards – had been painted closed.
‘So, back to London, Lina?’
‘I’m going to visit Sofia and the family. They have so insisted that I go to see their new house.’
‘Of course! They’ll be so happy to have you there for a week... and it will do you good to get away for a while.’ Mavis hobbled towards the kitchen, shuffling her feet. ‘Take a seat,’ she pointed to the chairs around the table. ‘Did you know that the young couple three doors up are expecting their first child?’ Mavis gossiped, as she filled the kettle.
‘Oh! That’s nice. They are both good looking; they’ll have a beautiful baby.’ Lina sat herself down on the wooden chair.
‘That’s right. It will be nice to have a new baby in the street,’ Mavis agreed, moving carefully towards the gas stove. ‘And you must know that Dick, next door, is struggling to recover from a nasty bout of flu.’
‘Well, he ought to stop smoking,’ Lina replied. ‘He’s always outside his front door with a fag in his mouth. It can’t do him any good. He hasn’t been looking after himself since he’s been a widower.’
‘It’s been fifteen years since Freda died, you know?’
‘Is it really? It seems like yesterday!’ Lina mused.
‘It does; the years have flown by! Dick has been smoking like a chimney for far too long. He’ll probably die with a fag in his mouth,’ commented Mavis as a matter of fact, turning the gas on and placing the kettle on the ring. She turned around and looked at Lina with an amused smile: ‘You know what he told me the other day?’
‘What did he tell you?’ Lina’s small brown eyes were bright and sparkling with curiosity.
‘That he has ordered a coffin for his own funeral!’
‘Oh no! Why would he do that?’ Lina asked in disbelief.
The neighbour continued: ‘Apparently there is a special offer. The funeral directors on the main road are giving fifty per cent off to those pensioners who buy by the end of the month. He said it was such a bargain, he jumped at it.’ Mavis burst out laughing. She opened a cupboard door and handed Lina a small plate. ‘Put the biscuits on here Lina, we’ll have them later. He also suggested that I, and you, ought to take advantage of it, while we can!’
‘I would never do that!’ Lina declared with a shocked expression. ‘I’ve done enough for my children, bringing them into this world, bringing them up. They’ll have to sort those things out when I’m gone.’ She carefully opened the packet by pulling on the little tag and laid four biscuits on the plate. ‘Actually, I never think about my own death; it hardly ever crosses my mind. I much prefer to think about what to do with my days.’ She paused, reflecting. ‘Do you, Mavis... think about your own death?’
Mavis set out two porcelain cups on their saucers and, out of a round tin box with the scene of a pond and flying ducks, ceremoniously extracted a teaspoon full of tea leaves, which she divided equally between the two cups. ‘With my work, looking into people’s lives, death is always a possibility, but I don’t talk about it. I see change all the time, as you can imagine, but rarely do I see someone’s death... and even if I thought I did, I could never be sure,’ she explained with confidence. ‘Besides, it wouldn’t be good for business.’
‘No, I suppose not!’ Lina agreed thoughtfully. ‘Who wants to pay good money to be told they’re going to snuff it?’
‘Too right!’ said Mavis with a giggle and a mischievous look on her face. ‘You hit the nail right on the head there, Lina.’
As soon as the kettle started to whistle, Mavis poured in enough water to half fill the cups.
‘To answer your question,’ she said, ‘I don’t think of my own death often; like you, I am too busy with my life.’ She sat down heavily opposite Lina. With her elbow resting on the table, she lifted herself just enough to grab the chair with her hand between her legs and drag herself closer to the table. ‘Now let’s see what this journey is going to be like,’ she declared, giving Lina an encouraging look.
‘Let’s hope everything will go smoothly,’ Lina said. From the pocket of her cardigan she pulled out the penny she had prepared – a symbolic but necessary payment – and placed it with her arthritic hand onto the plastic tablecloth with its print of a dark, mysterious landscape. Despite not believing in this ‘tea leaves business’ she felt a nervous shiver.
As a rule she took her tea with a teaspoon of sugar and a dash of milk, but today nothing was to be added.
Mavis encouraged her: ‘Drink the tea but leave a few drops.’
‘Yes, yes, as usual.’ Lina prudently sipped the hot bitter drink until only a few drops were left in the cup, trying to prevent the leaves from going into her mouth. She then passed it to Mavis.
Mavis stared into the cup. Her expression changed; she became serious. She closed her eyes, whilst breathing in deeply through her nose. After a while she opened her eyes, rolled the cup counter-clockwise three times (Lina knew it had to be done with the left hand) and proceeded to turn it over onto the saucer. She lightly tapped on the base of the cup, letting the last drops run off before reversing it one last time. Next, she studied the leaves strewn up the sides and across the bottom of the cup.
Lina knew that, from now on, the fortune teller was not to be interrupted; no questions were to be asked until the end of the reading. She shuffled uncomfortably on her chair. Then she saw Mavis frown...................................................................................
EARLY REVIEWS
From the Goodreads
Jul 14, 2020 Sue Penn-Tonkin rated It was amazing!
I really enjoyed this book. It was a gentle but an action packed read. The book provided in depth character descriptions of the three women who were struggling to rediscover their values and sense of belonging. The writer cleverly weaved into the story line some of the political events in London and some Buddhist philosophy. It was a book filled with hope and possibility of transformation regardless of age. I thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for more meaning in their life.
Jul 14, 2020 Sue Penn-Tonkin rated It was amazing!
I really enjoyed this book. It was a gentle but an action packed read. The book provided in depth character descriptions of the three women who were struggling to rediscover their values and sense of belonging. The writer cleverly weaved into the story line some of the political events in London and some Buddhist philosophy. It was a book filled with hope and possibility of transformation regardless of age. I thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for more meaning in their life.
5.0 out of 5 stars A tender and inspiring read
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 March 2020
Format: Paperback
If stated most of us are feeling ‘a little lost’ in these strange times, we’d be forgiven for thinking this an understatement. In a climate of uncertainty many are looking for narratives that celebrate human values of mutual care and transformation. Three Women Lost in London hits the mark: A tender & astute observation of family politics: Each character lost, discovers new life affirming values. It is wonderful that the protagonist is a feisty seventy five year old - Lina - Her wonderful ability to trust the love of strangers opens her world to risk and meeting Buddhist teachings that transform not only herself but all those who share her world. The book offers inspiration and hope. A beautiful read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 March 2020
Format: Paperback
If stated most of us are feeling ‘a little lost’ in these strange times, we’d be forgiven for thinking this an understatement. In a climate of uncertainty many are looking for narratives that celebrate human values of mutual care and transformation. Three Women Lost in London hits the mark: A tender & astute observation of family politics: Each character lost, discovers new life affirming values. It is wonderful that the protagonist is a feisty seventy five year old - Lina - Her wonderful ability to trust the love of strangers opens her world to risk and meeting Buddhist teachings that transform not only herself but all those who share her world. The book offers inspiration and hope. A beautiful read.
Click on the link for Amazon UK:
www.amazon.co.uk/Three-Women-London-Emanuela-Cooper/dp/1700098705/ref=sr_1_1?crid=181PNGODNZRIS&dchild=1&keywords=three+women+lost+in+london&qid=1607192276&s=books&sprefix=three+women+lost+in+l%2Cstripbooks%2C178&sr=1-1
www.amazon.co.uk/Three-Women-London-Emanuela-Cooper/dp/1700098705/ref=sr_1_1?crid=181PNGODNZRIS&dchild=1&keywords=three+women+lost+in+london&qid=1607192276&s=books&sprefix=three+women+lost+in+l%2Cstripbooks%2C178&sr=1-1
5.0 out of 5 stars Five star book!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 March 2020
Format: Paperback
Reading Three Women Lost in London, I got to know the central character, Lina, her family, friends (old and new), and got to know more about myself too.
The book follows Lina on her big adventure, during which we see a big change in Lina, and how the impact of this change ripples out to the lives of the other characters in the book. Very inspiring!
This book gave me great insights about people, about life, about Buddhism...I laughed out loud several times, and was moved to tears more than once. Loved it.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 March 2020
Format: Paperback
Reading Three Women Lost in London, I got to know the central character, Lina, her family, friends (old and new), and got to know more about myself too.
The book follows Lina on her big adventure, during which we see a big change in Lina, and how the impact of this change ripples out to the lives of the other characters in the book. Very inspiring!
This book gave me great insights about people, about life, about Buddhism...I laughed out loud several times, and was moved to tears more than once. Loved it.
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful, unusual novel.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 15 November 2019
Format: Paperback
A moving inter-generational story of three women searching to find their way back to each other and themselves. Lovely and unusual (for me) to read a novel centred round a woman of my grandmother's age and to see things through her eyes. Interesting and thought provoking thoughts on life and Buddhism too.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 15 November 2019
Format: Paperback
A moving inter-generational story of three women searching to find their way back to each other and themselves. Lovely and unusual (for me) to read a novel centred round a woman of my grandmother's age and to see things through her eyes. Interesting and thought provoking thoughts on life and Buddhism too.
Click on the link for Amazon Spain:
www.amazon.es/Three-Women-London-Emanuela-Cooper/dp/1700098705/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&dchild=1&keywords=three+women+lost+in+london&qid=1606674737&s=books&sr=1-1
www.amazon.es/Three-Women-London-Emanuela-Cooper/dp/1700098705/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&dchild=1&keywords=three+women+lost+in+london&qid=1606674737&s=books&sr=1-1
5,0 de 5 estrellas Inspiration
Revisado en España el 27 de marzo de 2020
Formato: Tapa blanda
Dear Emanuela Cooper,
I would like to let you know that I read your second novel “Three women lost in London” with big curiosity, after reading your first one “Made in Nirvana”, which had touched me deeply, so much so that I became a Buddhist myself.
Your second novel, now that I have a better knowledge and understanding of the Buddhist philosophy, touched me in the same way, maybe even more profoundly.
It is a very inspiring and motivating novel. I was in a kind of a small personal “down” when I started to read the book, not really knowing where my passion had gone, but when I finished it I was full of enthusiasm and felt full of energy. The story is lovely and compelling, one can easily identify with the main character, but also with all the other characters that appear in the story.
Thank you a lot for bringing the faith in a possible Human Revolution to us, without being dogmatic or fanatic, in your own gentle and lovely way.
Greetings Suzanne
Revisado en España el 27 de marzo de 2020
Formato: Tapa blanda
Dear Emanuela Cooper,
I would like to let you know that I read your second novel “Three women lost in London” with big curiosity, after reading your first one “Made in Nirvana”, which had touched me deeply, so much so that I became a Buddhist myself.
Your second novel, now that I have a better knowledge and understanding of the Buddhist philosophy, touched me in the same way, maybe even more profoundly.
It is a very inspiring and motivating novel. I was in a kind of a small personal “down” when I started to read the book, not really knowing where my passion had gone, but when I finished it I was full of enthusiasm and felt full of energy. The story is lovely and compelling, one can easily identify with the main character, but also with all the other characters that appear in the story.
Thank you a lot for bringing the faith in a possible Human Revolution to us, without being dogmatic or fanatic, in your own gentle and lovely way.
Greetings Suzanne
5,0 de 5 estrellas
Three Women Lost in London
Revisado en España el 13 de abril de 2020
A charming novel that touches on the lives of three ladies in a family and focuses on Lina, the grandmother, whose
adventures bring change and growth to herself and to those who surround her. Set mostly in London in 2011, with an interesting plot and engaging characters, this book works well as both an enjoyable read and as a guide to those who seek ways to enhance their quality of life; in this case primarily but not solely through Buddhist practices .
A warm, inspiring tale which could be especially helpful to floundering older ladies.
A review from Helen
Three Women Lost in London
Revisado en España el 13 de abril de 2020
A charming novel that touches on the lives of three ladies in a family and focuses on Lina, the grandmother, whose
adventures bring change and growth to herself and to those who surround her. Set mostly in London in 2011, with an interesting plot and engaging characters, this book works well as both an enjoyable read and as a guide to those who seek ways to enhance their quality of life; in this case primarily but not solely through Buddhist practices .
A warm, inspiring tale which could be especially helpful to floundering older ladies.
A review from Helen
Calan
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great, lighthearted story with a spiritual twist
Reviewed in Spain on 28 March 2021
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Three Women Lost in London is a novel about 3 different generations of women in London and their spiritual awakening. While merrily wandering through north London, Lina experiences a series of dramatic events and chance encounters which have a lasting impact on her life and the two other women in her family. One spiritual event leads to her understanding how they can all change their lives for the better. Very easy-going read that pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you hooked throughout.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great, lighthearted story with a spiritual twist
Reviewed in Spain on 28 March 2021
Verified Purchase
Three Women Lost in London is a novel about 3 different generations of women in London and their spiritual awakening. While merrily wandering through north London, Lina experiences a series of dramatic events and chance encounters which have a lasting impact on her life and the two other women in her family. One spiritual event leads to her understanding how they can all change their lives for the better. Very easy-going read that pulls you in from the beginning and keeps you hooked throughout.
Click on the link for Amazon USA:
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www.amazon.com/Three-Women-London-Emanuela-Cooper-ebook/dp/B082FRT141/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=three+women+lost+in+london&qid=1605984620&s=books&sr=1-1
5.0 out of 5 stars
The difficulties of life always represent an opportunity for personal growth
Reviewed in the United States on November 4, 2020
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Three Women Lost in London is a very pleasant novel, to be read in one breath. Full of love and real life, this book will lead you to reflect on the value of human relationships, of family, and to appreciate every aspect of them. A wonderful journey of self-discovery, one's innate potential and the extraordinary ability of the human being to transform one's existence.
The difficulties of life always represent an opportunity for personal growth
Reviewed in the United States on November 4, 2020
Verified Purchase
Three Women Lost in London is a very pleasant novel, to be read in one breath. Full of love and real life, this book will lead you to reflect on the value of human relationships, of family, and to appreciate every aspect of them. A wonderful journey of self-discovery, one's innate potential and the extraordinary ability of the human being to transform one's existence.
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful, uplifting novel
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 June 2020
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I very much enjoyed Made in Nirvana, the previous novel written by this talented author, but even though this book had a completely different starting point I thoroughly enjoyed it. I felt immersed in the lives of the characters and invested in their various problems. In addition the novel covered the topical subject of antisocial rioting and an insight into the world of Buddhism. I couldn't put this book down. Loved it!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 June 2020
Verified Purchase
I very much enjoyed Made in Nirvana, the previous novel written by this talented author, but even though this book had a completely different starting point I thoroughly enjoyed it. I felt immersed in the lives of the characters and invested in their various problems. In addition the novel covered the topical subject of antisocial rioting and an insight into the world of Buddhism. I couldn't put this book down. Loved it!
5.0 out of 5 stars Finding self-worth
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 July 2020
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A treasure of a book that takes you, and its protagonists on a journey of inner discovery. Three generations of women, each with their own issues confronting that which is bewildering, frightening and painful, wrapped up in a story that took me to familiar locations in London and the riots of 2011 which, in the end, brought a community together. I enjoyed the introduction to Buddhism and its philosophy, there was humour and humanity in the many characters we met along the way and the conclusion was thought-provoking and satisfying.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 July 2020
Verified Purchase
A treasure of a book that takes you, and its protagonists on a journey of inner discovery. Three generations of women, each with their own issues confronting that which is bewildering, frightening and painful, wrapped up in a story that took me to familiar locations in London and the riots of 2011 which, in the end, brought a community together. I enjoyed the introduction to Buddhism and its philosophy, there was humour and humanity in the many characters we met along the way and the conclusion was thought-provoking and satisfying.
5.0 out of 5 stars A fantastic read
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 August 2020
Verified Purchase
Loved this book! The characters are so relatable and it’s wonderful to see how the relationships develop in the story in such a positive way. A real gem! Highly recommend!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 August 2020
Verified Purchase
Loved this book! The characters are so relatable and it’s wonderful to see how the relationships develop in the story in such a positive way. A real gem! Highly recommend!
5.0 out of 5 stars It's a lovely read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 April 2020
A great and inspirational novel, I enjoyed every bit.
The characters that come alive in the pages seem so real. I loved the story of the elderly Lina and her adventures getting lost in London when the riots broke out. Thanks to a chance encounter with strangers, she is helped in more ways than one resulting in a transformation of the way she looks at life. The changes that Lina goes through have a profound effect on her and consequently on her family and the people around her.
A very uplifting book which left me with a warm feeling of hope and harmony!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 April 2020
A great and inspirational novel, I enjoyed every bit.
The characters that come alive in the pages seem so real. I loved the story of the elderly Lina and her adventures getting lost in London when the riots broke out. Thanks to a chance encounter with strangers, she is helped in more ways than one resulting in a transformation of the way she looks at life. The changes that Lina goes through have a profound effect on her and consequently on her family and the people around her.
A very uplifting book which left me with a warm feeling of hope and harmony!
5.0 out of 5 stars Olive Colomar
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 July 2020
The protagonist of the book a courageous 75 year old grandmother who shows how resilient the older generation are in a crisis.
I found the plot intriguing, and the introduction of Buddhism gives an interesting insight to the religion, featuring love and understanding which is then passed on by Lina to the other characters in the book. This way she is able to help them rethink their personal problems .
An enjoyable read with love, tears and laughter.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 July 2020
The protagonist of the book a courageous 75 year old grandmother who shows how resilient the older generation are in a crisis.
I found the plot intriguing, and the introduction of Buddhism gives an interesting insight to the religion, featuring love and understanding which is then passed on by Lina to the other characters in the book. This way she is able to help them rethink their personal problems .
An enjoyable read with love, tears and laughter.
5.0 out of 5 stars This book restored my faith in humanity
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 11 July 2020
I found that it often happens that people quickly write off the elderly and disregard their opinions. I this book instead the generosity, kindness and interest shown to the older lady by the young people who rescued her was touching and heart-warming.
Despite all the negativity in the world this story restored my faith in humanity.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 11 July 2020
I found that it often happens that people quickly write off the elderly and disregard their opinions. I this book instead the generosity, kindness and interest shown to the older lady by the young people who rescued her was touching and heart-warming.
Despite all the negativity in the world this story restored my faith in humanity.
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 26 April 2020
I love this book. It is nourishing, generous, thoughtful and inspiring with a very satisfying ending.
I have read it twice and want to read it again.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 26 April 2020
I love this book. It is nourishing, generous, thoughtful and inspiring with a very satisfying ending.
I have read it twice and want to read it again.
Early reviews from Italy, where it is published as SMARRITA A LONDRA
www.amazon.it/SMARRITA-LONDRA-Ms-Emanuela-Cooper/dp/B086Y5MMJF/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_it_IT=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&dchild=1&keywords=smarrita+a+londra&qid=1607191749&s=books&sr=1-1
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5 stars
A compelling book that gives you back the will to live and discover new things! Reviewed in Italy on 4 July 2020 This book is fascinating, compelling and full of meaning. Lina, a middle-aged woman, goes on a journey to meet her family. The challenging situations she finds herself in will lead her to the discovery of a new self. Being a woman, always ready to start anew, to re-invent herself, to feel new things: this is the heart of the story. It is never too late to walk the path that leads to self knowledge. Lina's world initially seems to crumble, but then it comes together again, like a wonderful mosaic. Buddhism and the mantra Nam-myoho-renge-kyo transform obstacles into great opportunities. Emanuela Cooper’s style is light and, at the same time, powerful; it invites us into a story that witnesses the beauty of life, but also those painful moments that can transform everything and become wisdom. There is hope and a world to be discovered beyond our fears: This is the way I felt after reading this book. I highly recommend everyone to read this gifted writer’s work. Margherita Adduci. |
5 stars
Beautiful book and highly recommended even for 13/14 year olds! Reviewed in Italy on 24 August 2020. Hi, my name is Alessandro and I am 13 years old. I started reading this book almost by chance because it was on my mom's Kindle. When I said I wanted to read it my mom was a bit skeptical because it was a story for adults (or almost), but I wanted to try it anyway, and luckily I did. It is a beautiful book, which I finished in three days, devouring it chapter by chapter. I liked everything about this book: the structure, similar to a mystery, grabbed me, fascinated me, and made it easier to read (also because I really like detective stories), and the part on Buddhism, which I would like to deepen, and the story as a whole. Really well done! Recommended for everyone, including 13/14 year olds. P.S. Too bad for Charlie's husband, I think he was nice ;-) |
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silvano marghera
5 stars Compelling Reviewed in Italy on October 15, 2020 An adventure and a story that could happen to each one of us. An older Italian lady living with her daughter's family in London, suddenly finds herself alone and at the mercy of events. It will be the compassion and care of strangers to help her get through a dramatic moment. A story brilliantly told by the author. |
5 stars
By Riccardo Mazzucco Smarrita a Londra by Emanuela Cooper Reviewed in Italy on November 13, 2020 A book that grabs you from the very beginning, written with elegance and passion. It opens unexpected horizons that transform the lives of the protagonists with a 'wave' of optimism aimed at improving their existence, until they become happy! I passionately recommend it to those who want to enrich their spirituality and improve their level of self-esteem and help the people around us. A good read for any generation looking for a new start in their life. |
Gianna
5 stars
Lost in London, is the compelling story of Lina, a no longer young lady, who, visiting her daughter, gets lost in the big city on an evening stirred by popular uprisings. After a series of vicissitudes, the meeting with a small community of Buddhists will be the flywheel to take back one's life firmly in hand, the turning point that we often would like to happen to us too when we feel lost in the meanders of our existence and life has become a succession of actions always equal to themselves. It will be the Change that will lead Lina to find the true meaning of life.
A book suitable for everyone, in which everyone can find a connection with their own existence. I certainly recommend it!
5 stars
Lost in London, is the compelling story of Lina, a no longer young lady, who, visiting her daughter, gets lost in the big city on an evening stirred by popular uprisings. After a series of vicissitudes, the meeting with a small community of Buddhists will be the flywheel to take back one's life firmly in hand, the turning point that we often would like to happen to us too when we feel lost in the meanders of our existence and life has become a succession of actions always equal to themselves. It will be the Change that will lead Lina to find the true meaning of life.
A book suitable for everyone, in which everyone can find a connection with their own existence. I certainly recommend it!
