THE CORRESPONDENT-An Epistolary novel that's Appealing and Character Revealing

I've read two previous, epistolary works, the 1970 epistolary memoir, "84, Charing Cross Road" by Helene Hanff and the novel "A Woman of Independent Means" (1978) by Elizabeth Hailey.  Both these authors' books were more engaging than Virginia Evan's novel all having utilized an epistolatory style in which to share a story. My main complaint with Evan's use of writing and receiving letters/ emails after-awhile it felt too gimmicky. Sybil Van Antwerp is 73, divorced mother of 2 adult children; having lost a son at a young age.  She prefers communication be maintained free of direct dialogue; i.e., in written form.  Sybil's seemingly quick-witted name is a play on anti-twerp.  Sybil confirms her outsider nature, superior intelligence and a vastly-held favorite pastime; letter writing. "Perhaps I ought to call you, but I am better with the pen and the paper. It gives me time to consider things as they come onto the page rather than simply prattling on and on without tripping over my spoon words." she reiterates often in her letters.  Therein lies a foible making the story less enjoyable,  Sybil hubris is off-putting to the point you want to push her letters aside.  Liking the main character isn't au rigor in order to be engaging, but the format's focus puts so much exertion into getting precisely into Sybil's mindset it becomes burdensome.  "It has always been my. nature to see things in black and white, as you well know. I like rules. I relish living in a world that runs on laws and systems that are quite clear and declared."  In ("84, Charing...) the correspondences are between two individuals, one seeking assistance regarding books.  A warm friendship  builds organically crafting a straightforward and enchanting tale. CORRESPONDENT imprints so many characters and storylines it's emotional core becomes blurred.  "A Woman of..." life unfolds over an extended period of time and we empathize with our heroine as she matures and reckons in life.  Sybil's past is uncover but the focus in Sybil's 70s as her obdurate and conceited traits are set fermented.  A chastising letter is received by Sybil from her longtime friend.  It read, "You are a wonderful, interesting woman,...but you are also damn stubborn and determined you know exactly what is right in every situation."  It must be noted that author Evans is a bibliophile as well as an epistolist. A majority of her letters mention books read by Sybil.  The author, Evans, made a legitimate case for inspiring the lost art of letter writing.  Strength and solace are gleaned from Sybil in writing her letters. "...to think that a story of one's life is preserved in some way, that this very letter may one day mean something, even if it is a very small thing, to someone." Sybil goes on to say, "I believe one ought to be precious with communication. Remember: words, especially those written, are immortal."  Reading through Sybil's letters in THE CORRESPONDENT one comes away knowing her intimately but ultimately feeling left blank.