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The Letter Tree
Romeo and Juliet meets You’ve Got Mail in 1920s New York when hidden letters change everything for two lost souls and the community around them.
Seven years ago, a letter left inside a tree brought Laura Bradshaw an anonymous friend who helped her navigate the tragic loss of her mother and gave her something to look forward to despite the overbearing hand of her father. Life would be far bleaker, if not for her beloved Letter Tree, her dear friend, and her secret trips to the Buffalo Zoo. But even these rays of light are threatened when her father decides to play matchmaker in order to further his business goals.
When Isaac Campbell learns that his letter friend is destined to court another, he balks at the suggestion and begs her to break her rule of namelessness and meet him. Her words have endeared her to him, he’s ready to fall at her knees and beg her to choose him—that is until he sees her face. The stranger he’s become so attached to is not a stranger . . . but the only daughter of his family’s sworn enemy.
Can the grown children of feuding parents bridge the chasm between them? Or is the divide too deep—and too wide?
Historical romance with a forbidden love storyStand-alone novel set in the 1920sIncludes discussion questions for book clubs
Seven years ago, a letter left inside a tree brought Laura Bradshaw an anonymous friend who helped her navigate the tragic loss of her mother and gave her something to look forward to despite the overbearing hand of her father. Life would be far bleaker, if not for her beloved Letter Tree, her dear friend, and her secret trips to the Buffalo Zoo. But even these rays of light are threatened when her father decides to play matchmaker in order to further his business goals.
When Isaac Campbell learns that his letter friend is destined to court another, he balks at the suggestion and begs her to break her rule of namelessness and meet him. Her words have endeared her to him, he’s ready to fall at her knees and beg her to choose him—that is until he sees her face. The stranger he’s become so attached to is not a stranger . . . but the only daughter of his family’s sworn enemy.
Can the grown children of feuding parents bridge the chasm between them? Or is the divide too deep—and too wide?
Historical romance with a forbidden love storyStand-alone novel set in the 1920sIncludes discussion questions for book clubs
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2023
140 people are currently reading
9097 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Fordham
8 books1,361 followersRachel Fordham is the author of The Letter Tree, Where the Road Bends, A Lady in Attendance, A Life Once Dreamed, The Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington. Learn more at
www.rachelfordham.com.
www.rachelfordham.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 678 reviews
November 5, 2023
In a Nutshell: After a long wait, I read a novel that delivers exactly what it promises and exactly as per its genre. Loved this beautiful story with loveable lead characters and an old-world charm to its writing. Think ‘Romeo & Juliet’ crossed with ‘You’ve Got Mail’ in a Jazz Age setting.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Story Synopsis:
Bookish Yays:
😍 The prologue set in 1917 gives the book the perfect start.
😍 Laura and Isaac are wonderful leads for this story. As they are still young adults, their actions sometimes seem impulsive. But on the whole, they are carved in a way that made me root for them. Both have vulnerabilities that they overcome with the support of their loved ones and with their own determination.
😍 I loved the role of the maple tree! It has a properly sketched presence in the story that justifies its being the title of the book. It was nice to see many key scenes occur under or around the tree.
😍 Many elements from the Jazz Age are a vital part of the storyline. From flagpole sitting competitions to daredevilry in a bid to set new records to the dance halls, the story incorporates enough of historical events without anything seeming forced. The beautiful writing further enlivens the spirit of the era.
😍 The story is neither fast nor slow, moving ahead at a relaxed tempo that worked well for me. This gives the characters and the plot enough of breathing space.
😍 I loved how good old letter writing had a role to play in the union of the star-crossed lovers. The letters are used well in the plot, and through them, we get an added glimpse of the developing feelings of the lead pair.
😍 As this was a book by a Christian publisher, I expected it to have a strong thread of faith. But there’s hardly any religious content herein. I didn’t mind this, as I anyway don’t like overly preachy stuff. Plus, the Christian tag ensured that the romance stayed clean, with only a few kisses.
😍 On that note, I loved the romance!! It was my kind of a love story – a slow, steady growth of friendship to love, but also with shades of enemies to lovers. No steam, no silly antics, no whiny females or buff males. Just two regular people falling for each other based on a connection of souls and not bodies. Perfect!
😍 There are also two mysteries in the book – one connected to the rift between the Campbells and the Bradshaws, and the other connected to a secondary character. Both were interesting, and both were resolved satisfactorily.
😍 The author’s note at the end clarifies the facts and the fiction. I love how she began her note by saying that she loved reading such notes and historical clarifications as a reader, and hence writes the same for her readers. Thank you!
Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 Other than Laura’s housekeeper Miss Guskin and Isaac’s best friend (Forgot his name!), the remaining secondary characters are mostly clichéd. Be it the parents or other potential love interests, none broke the mould. This was the biggest shortcoming of the story, as all the goodwill gained by the good characters was nullified by the stock ones.
😐 The Buffalo zoo also has a vital role to play in the plot. Courtesy Laura’s love for animals and the zoo being a frequent location in the story for a rendezvous, we get a great glimpse of the animals therein. It is a bit too cutesy to be realistic, but this wasn’t meant to be literary fiction, so the focus stays on the positive side of the zoo.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 39 min, was narrated by Kira Fixx. She does handle the narration well, though I admit I had a tough time getting used to the high pitch of her voice. The accent didn’t cause me any trouble though. She had a lovely smooth way of speaking out sentences that suited Laura’s personality perfectly. I’d have loved to see a male narrator voicing Isaac’s chapters, though Fixx does handle male voices fairly well.
All in all, this is exactly what you would expect from a historical romantic drama, plus a little more. It might not be path-breaking fiction and is mostly predictable, as is common with this genre. However, it delivers on everything it promises.
Definitely recommended when you are looking for a soothing historical read with a lovely mix of sweet romance and family mystery. Not for those who want insta love or steamy action.
4.5 stars, happy to round up.
My thanks to HarperCollins Christian Publishing and NetGalley for the ALC of “The Letter Tree”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Story Synopsis:
Buffalo, New York. 1924. It has been many years since the Campbell and Bradshaw families feuded, split their joint shoe business, and stopped speaking with each other. No one knows the reasons behind their fight, not even the heirs of the families.
Laura Bradshaw, 21, loves books and animals. However, after the death of her mother, her father has been focussed only on his shoe company, and wants Laura to marry a new business partner to expand the company. The only source of joy in Laura’s life, other than her pet parrot and her loving housekeeper, is her mysterious pen pal, with whom she has been exchanging letters since seven years by using a hollow in the maple tree at the local zoo as a ‘letter box’.
Isaac Campbell, 23, wants to be more involves in Campbell Shoes, but his father is reluctant to give him a greater role. His overprotective mother is only concerned about him getting married to the right girl. Isaac finds respite only in words of his secret friend who, through her letters, has provided the comfort and friendship he needs.
Do Laura and Isaac know that they are corresponding with the “enemy”? What will happen when their families learn about the letters?
The story comes to us in the limited third person perspectives of Laura and Isaac.
Bookish Yays:
😍 The prologue set in 1917 gives the book the perfect start.
😍 Laura and Isaac are wonderful leads for this story. As they are still young adults, their actions sometimes seem impulsive. But on the whole, they are carved in a way that made me root for them. Both have vulnerabilities that they overcome with the support of their loved ones and with their own determination.
😍 I loved the role of the maple tree! It has a properly sketched presence in the story that justifies its being the title of the book. It was nice to see many key scenes occur under or around the tree.
😍 Many elements from the Jazz Age are a vital part of the storyline. From flagpole sitting competitions to daredevilry in a bid to set new records to the dance halls, the story incorporates enough of historical events without anything seeming forced. The beautiful writing further enlivens the spirit of the era.
😍 The story is neither fast nor slow, moving ahead at a relaxed tempo that worked well for me. This gives the characters and the plot enough of breathing space.
😍 I loved how good old letter writing had a role to play in the union of the star-crossed lovers. The letters are used well in the plot, and through them, we get an added glimpse of the developing feelings of the lead pair.
😍 As this was a book by a Christian publisher, I expected it to have a strong thread of faith. But there’s hardly any religious content herein. I didn’t mind this, as I anyway don’t like overly preachy stuff. Plus, the Christian tag ensured that the romance stayed clean, with only a few kisses.
😍 On that note, I loved the romance!! It was my kind of a love story – a slow, steady growth of friendship to love, but also with shades of enemies to lovers. No steam, no silly antics, no whiny females or buff males. Just two regular people falling for each other based on a connection of souls and not bodies. Perfect!
😍 There are also two mysteries in the book – one connected to the rift between the Campbells and the Bradshaws, and the other connected to a secondary character. Both were interesting, and both were resolved satisfactorily.
😍 The author’s note at the end clarifies the facts and the fiction. I love how she began her note by saying that she loved reading such notes and historical clarifications as a reader, and hence writes the same for her readers. Thank you!
Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 Other than Laura’s housekeeper Miss Guskin and Isaac’s best friend (Forgot his name!), the remaining secondary characters are mostly clichéd. Be it the parents or other potential love interests, none broke the mould. This was the biggest shortcoming of the story, as all the goodwill gained by the good characters was nullified by the stock ones.
😐 The Buffalo zoo also has a vital role to play in the plot. Courtesy Laura’s love for animals and the zoo being a frequent location in the story for a rendezvous, we get a great glimpse of the animals therein. It is a bit too cutesy to be realistic, but this wasn’t meant to be literary fiction, so the focus stays on the positive side of the zoo.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 39 min, was narrated by Kira Fixx. She does handle the narration well, though I admit I had a tough time getting used to the high pitch of her voice. The accent didn’t cause me any trouble though. She had a lovely smooth way of speaking out sentences that suited Laura’s personality perfectly. I’d have loved to see a male narrator voicing Isaac’s chapters, though Fixx does handle male voices fairly well.
All in all, this is exactly what you would expect from a historical romantic drama, plus a little more. It might not be path-breaking fiction and is mostly predictable, as is common with this genre. However, it delivers on everything it promises.
Definitely recommended when you are looking for a soothing historical read with a lovely mix of sweet romance and family mystery. Not for those who want insta love or steamy action.
4.5 stars, happy to round up.
My thanks to HarperCollins Christian Publishing and NetGalley for the ALC of “The Letter Tree”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
November 6, 2023
YES🎆
I loved this.
The Letter Tree is a Romeo and Juliet mixed with You've Got Mail retelling. I admit the Romeo and Juliet part made me nervous for the ending, but don't worry.
We follow Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell. Their dads own rival shoe companies. They aren't allowed to be friends. Little do they know that they have been communicating all these years through anonymous letters. It's a adorable.
My fave part was the characters. Fordham's characters are unmatched in my opinion. We get Laura and Isaac's perspectives throughout, which is also a highlight. Isaac made me swoon so hard.
Laura and Isaac were dynamic and interesting. Their scenes together were filled with tension and unspoken feelings and I ate it up.
BUT they did communicate. They didn't let things go too long and made sure they were clear with each other the people around them about how they felt.
The side characters shined as well. Mrs. Guskin, Mr. Cannon, and Charles - loved!
The romance was so so cute. I loved Laura and Isaac together.
There was very light faith content.
It was clean with mild kiss scenes.
Highly recommend!
*I was given a free copy to read and review by the author and Net Galley. This is an honest review.
I loved this.
The Letter Tree is a Romeo and Juliet mixed with You've Got Mail retelling. I admit the Romeo and Juliet part made me nervous for the ending, but don't worry.
We follow Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell. Their dads own rival shoe companies. They aren't allowed to be friends. Little do they know that they have been communicating all these years through anonymous letters. It's a adorable.
My fave part was the characters. Fordham's characters are unmatched in my opinion. We get Laura and Isaac's perspectives throughout, which is also a highlight. Isaac made me swoon so hard.
Laura and Isaac were dynamic and interesting. Their scenes together were filled with tension and unspoken feelings and I ate it up.
BUT they did communicate. They didn't let things go too long and made sure they were clear with each other the people around them about how they felt.
The side characters shined as well. Mrs. Guskin, Mr. Cannon, and Charles - loved!
The romance was so so cute. I loved Laura and Isaac together.
There was very light faith content.
It was clean with mild kiss scenes.
Highly recommend!
*I was given a free copy to read and review by the author and Net Galley. This is an honest review.
September 20, 2023
Laura Bradshaw adores books, reading and stories that end happily ever after. Since her mother died seven years ago, her father Stanley has changed, Laura is left home with the kindly housekeeper Mrs. Gaskin and her pet bird Tybalt. Her father owns the Bradshaw Shoe Company, all he worries about is taking down his competitor, Campbell Shoe Company and they were once business partners and friends.
When she can, Laura likes to visit the Buffalo Zoo, it’s near her house and she loves animals. Laura started writing poetry when her mother died, she left a poem in a tree trunk at the zoo, she was shocked to find someone had left a letter in it's place and for years she and the unknown “boy with the pine-cones” have been corresponding.
Isaac Campbell is the heir to the Campbell Shoe Company and one of Buffalo's most eligible bachelors. Isaac's thoughts are consumed by discovering who's the mystery woman he exchanges letters with at the zoo and she uses the name “wishing girl.”
As children Laura and Isaac were friends, when their fathers had the falling out they are not allowed to speak to each other and have been caught up in the messy breakup. Isaac want's to uncover the reason for the Bradshaw-Campbell falling out, he starts looking into what happened at the time and hires a private investigator.
I received a digital copy of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham from Edelweiss and Thomas Nelson publishing in exchange for an honest review. The author uses real public places in Buffalo, NY from the 1920's in the narrative and I found this extremely interesting. I enjoyed discovering the family history between the Bradshaw's and the Campbell's, what caused the feud and it full of drama, confusion, mystery and suspense.
The well written story by Ms. Fordham it's told from the two main characters points of view and using a Romeo and Juliet scenario. Five stars from me, a sweet, clean and wholesome romance and suitable for all ages to read.
When she can, Laura likes to visit the Buffalo Zoo, it’s near her house and she loves animals. Laura started writing poetry when her mother died, she left a poem in a tree trunk at the zoo, she was shocked to find someone had left a letter in it's place and for years she and the unknown “boy with the pine-cones” have been corresponding.
Isaac Campbell is the heir to the Campbell Shoe Company and one of Buffalo's most eligible bachelors. Isaac's thoughts are consumed by discovering who's the mystery woman he exchanges letters with at the zoo and she uses the name “wishing girl.”
As children Laura and Isaac were friends, when their fathers had the falling out they are not allowed to speak to each other and have been caught up in the messy breakup. Isaac want's to uncover the reason for the Bradshaw-Campbell falling out, he starts looking into what happened at the time and hires a private investigator.
I received a digital copy of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham from Edelweiss and Thomas Nelson publishing in exchange for an honest review. The author uses real public places in Buffalo, NY from the 1920's in the narrative and I found this extremely interesting. I enjoyed discovering the family history between the Bradshaw's and the Campbell's, what caused the feud and it full of drama, confusion, mystery and suspense.
The well written story by Ms. Fordham it's told from the two main characters points of view and using a Romeo and Juliet scenario. Five stars from me, a sweet, clean and wholesome romance and suitable for all ages to read.
December 1, 2023
The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham was the first book that I had the pleasure of reading by this author. It pulled me in from the onset and held my attention until the very end. I found that The Letter Tree was well written, paced just right and had several strong and well developed characters. It took place in Buffalo, N.Y. during the 1920’s. I enjoy reading books that were written during that time period and The Letter Tree was no exception. The author, Rachel Fordham, relied on her positive experiences she had when she first read Romeo and Juliet and watched You’ve Got Mail to create The Letter Tree. Those influences truly worked in every way and made The Letter Tree a delight to read. I listened to the audiobook that was very well narrated by Kira Fixx.
The Bradshaw family and the Campbell family both resided in Buffalo, N.Y. Both families shared a special friendship and relationship with each other’s family. The fathers jointly owned a thriving shoe business together. Laura Bradshaw, the only daughter, enjoyed Isaac Campbell’s company and friendship as well, even though he was a little older than Laura. All of this was well and good until something happened between the two families that led them to immediately terminate their friendship and business. As close as they had once been they now considered each other enemies. The families avoided each other entirely. No one ever revealed why the rift occurred but they avoided each other entirely now. Thus, Laura’s and Isaac’s friendship ended as well.
All this drama occurred right around the time Laura lost her mother. Laura’s mother had died when she was hit by a car while she was crossing the street. Laura had accompanied her mother on an outing to the Post Office. Laura was waiting for her mother across the street from the Post Office. From her vantage point, Laura witnessed the tragic death of her mother. From that point on, her father became quite distant, strict, demanding and very overprotective of Laura. She felt the effects of her mother’s death on many different levels.
Laura grew up to become a very lonely and sheltered child. Her only companion and confidant was the housekeeper that her father employed. Laura possessed one very special thing, though, that was hers alone. It was something she came to look forward to. It was her guarded secret. There was an old yet familiar maple tree on the grounds of the Buffalo Zoo. The tree was quite close to the home she lived in with her father. Right after her mother’s death, Laura began leaving letters in the hallow of the tree. She soon discovered that someone had discovered her letter and replied to her. Over the course of seven years, Laura and her secret pen pal friend wrote to each other and shared their dreams, fears and secrets with each other. Laura never learned the identify of the recipient of her letters but over time the person became her confidant and best friend.
Laura was more determined than ever to escape her father’s house but she wasn’t sure how she was going to accomplish that. Then a handsome stranger appeared and seemed to take a romantic interest in Laura. His name was Abel and he was not only handsome but rich. Abel was interested in developing a business relationship with her father so Laura’s father encouraged her to pursue a courtship with Abel. Laura knew that a marriage proposal was her best way to escape the confines of her father’s home. Could Laura find happiness with Abel. Was she willing to leave her special tree and the person who she had written her most precious thoughts to behind?
Like Laura, Isaac Campbell was an only child. As he grew older, his father had him join him in his shoe business but Isaac’s father would not give Isaac the respect and responsibilities he so desperately wanted. Isaac’s father was also overprotective of him. Isaac soon became quite frustrated with his father’s treatment of him. His mother encouraged Isaac to choose a bride but Isaac was uninterested in anyone his mother chose for him. Like Laura, Isaac had also lost someone very close to him. His uncle was killed in the war and Isaac missed him very much. Even though Isaac and Laura were forbidden to communicate or see each other, their circumstances were very similar over the years. Could the families forgive one another? Would Isaac and Laura renew their friendship?
I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham. It was such a feel good story. There was romance, two separate mysteries, strong characters and a well plotted feel good storyline. I really enjoyed the part the tree played in this book. It was very heartwarming to know that Laura had a special friend that she could share her thoughts with. I also enjoyed the relationship Laura had with the animals and nature. Laura and Isaac were by far my favorite characters but I also appreciated the housekeeper and the special bond she formed with Laura over the years after her mother died. Overall, I really enjoyed The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Harper Collins Christian Publishing/ Thomas Nelson Fiction for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Bradshaw family and the Campbell family both resided in Buffalo, N.Y. Both families shared a special friendship and relationship with each other’s family. The fathers jointly owned a thriving shoe business together. Laura Bradshaw, the only daughter, enjoyed Isaac Campbell’s company and friendship as well, even though he was a little older than Laura. All of this was well and good until something happened between the two families that led them to immediately terminate their friendship and business. As close as they had once been they now considered each other enemies. The families avoided each other entirely. No one ever revealed why the rift occurred but they avoided each other entirely now. Thus, Laura’s and Isaac’s friendship ended as well.
All this drama occurred right around the time Laura lost her mother. Laura’s mother had died when she was hit by a car while she was crossing the street. Laura had accompanied her mother on an outing to the Post Office. Laura was waiting for her mother across the street from the Post Office. From her vantage point, Laura witnessed the tragic death of her mother. From that point on, her father became quite distant, strict, demanding and very overprotective of Laura. She felt the effects of her mother’s death on many different levels.
Laura grew up to become a very lonely and sheltered child. Her only companion and confidant was the housekeeper that her father employed. Laura possessed one very special thing, though, that was hers alone. It was something she came to look forward to. It was her guarded secret. There was an old yet familiar maple tree on the grounds of the Buffalo Zoo. The tree was quite close to the home she lived in with her father. Right after her mother’s death, Laura began leaving letters in the hallow of the tree. She soon discovered that someone had discovered her letter and replied to her. Over the course of seven years, Laura and her secret pen pal friend wrote to each other and shared their dreams, fears and secrets with each other. Laura never learned the identify of the recipient of her letters but over time the person became her confidant and best friend.
Laura was more determined than ever to escape her father’s house but she wasn’t sure how she was going to accomplish that. Then a handsome stranger appeared and seemed to take a romantic interest in Laura. His name was Abel and he was not only handsome but rich. Abel was interested in developing a business relationship with her father so Laura’s father encouraged her to pursue a courtship with Abel. Laura knew that a marriage proposal was her best way to escape the confines of her father’s home. Could Laura find happiness with Abel. Was she willing to leave her special tree and the person who she had written her most precious thoughts to behind?
Like Laura, Isaac Campbell was an only child. As he grew older, his father had him join him in his shoe business but Isaac’s father would not give Isaac the respect and responsibilities he so desperately wanted. Isaac’s father was also overprotective of him. Isaac soon became quite frustrated with his father’s treatment of him. His mother encouraged Isaac to choose a bride but Isaac was uninterested in anyone his mother chose for him. Like Laura, Isaac had also lost someone very close to him. His uncle was killed in the war and Isaac missed him very much. Even though Isaac and Laura were forbidden to communicate or see each other, their circumstances were very similar over the years. Could the families forgive one another? Would Isaac and Laura renew their friendship?
I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham. It was such a feel good story. There was romance, two separate mysteries, strong characters and a well plotted feel good storyline. I really enjoyed the part the tree played in this book. It was very heartwarming to know that Laura had a special friend that she could share her thoughts with. I also enjoyed the relationship Laura had with the animals and nature. Laura and Isaac were by far my favorite characters but I also appreciated the housekeeper and the special bond she formed with Laura over the years after her mother died. Overall, I really enjoyed The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Harper Collins Christian Publishing/ Thomas Nelson Fiction for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 15, 2023
The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham - 5 Stars - AMAZING!
The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham is a delightful and captivating story that effortlessly weaves together elements of a classic 1920s romance with a storyline that is perfect for lovers of You've Got Mail and Romeo and Juliet. At the heart of this book lies two characters - torn apart by their family feud many years ago. Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell. They were childhood friends at one point but they were torn apart by circumstances unknown to them many years ago. All they know is the Bradshaws and the Campbells hate each other and are to not be seen together.
The twist of this tale comes when Laura and Isaac have been secretly exchanging letters together in the big tree in the Buffalo Zoo in New York for years. The one rule? Never to reveal each other's name to one another. It all started when Isaac found one of Laura's poems she wrote and put in the tree - so he wrote her back many years ago.
So, they have grown to care for one another through these letters, yet neither one know they are writing to the other. Perfect story for lovers of You've Got Mail! There's more then meets the eye to this old family feud....as things would have it, circumstances push them together, things start to be revealed and BOY do we have a GOOD story on our hands!
We have so much more to the story too as we see close friends and business partners that can't be trusted get involved in many business dealings with others and they try to figure that out as well with the help of a private investigator.
I absolutely ADORED this book. The audiobook narrator did a fabulous job and she really kept me immersed in the story. She does great male and female voices in my opinion. Mrs. Gaskin was such a mother figure to Laura - she needed that since she lost her mother when she was very young. I loved her so much and how she truly cared about her happiness as a mother would. I also loved how Isaac truly cared for Laura, he wanted to protect her and the letters were THE SWEETEST.
I think if you are someone who loves a good zoo setting in a book, stories with letter exchanges, the 1920s, Romeo and Juliet references, and just a beautiful clean romance - this is for you! I love Rachel's writing and can't wait to read more of her books. I am SO glad I preordered this because I will be recommending this for a long time.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an audiobook copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham is a delightful and captivating story that effortlessly weaves together elements of a classic 1920s romance with a storyline that is perfect for lovers of You've Got Mail and Romeo and Juliet. At the heart of this book lies two characters - torn apart by their family feud many years ago. Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell. They were childhood friends at one point but they were torn apart by circumstances unknown to them many years ago. All they know is the Bradshaws and the Campbells hate each other and are to not be seen together.
The twist of this tale comes when Laura and Isaac have been secretly exchanging letters together in the big tree in the Buffalo Zoo in New York for years. The one rule? Never to reveal each other's name to one another. It all started when Isaac found one of Laura's poems she wrote and put in the tree - so he wrote her back many years ago.
So, they have grown to care for one another through these letters, yet neither one know they are writing to the other. Perfect story for lovers of You've Got Mail! There's more then meets the eye to this old family feud....as things would have it, circumstances push them together, things start to be revealed and BOY do we have a GOOD story on our hands!
We have so much more to the story too as we see close friends and business partners that can't be trusted get involved in many business dealings with others and they try to figure that out as well with the help of a private investigator.
I absolutely ADORED this book. The audiobook narrator did a fabulous job and she really kept me immersed in the story. She does great male and female voices in my opinion. Mrs. Gaskin was such a mother figure to Laura - she needed that since she lost her mother when she was very young. I loved her so much and how she truly cared about her happiness as a mother would. I also loved how Isaac truly cared for Laura, he wanted to protect her and the letters were THE SWEETEST.
I think if you are someone who loves a good zoo setting in a book, stories with letter exchanges, the 1920s, Romeo and Juliet references, and just a beautiful clean romance - this is for you! I love Rachel's writing and can't wait to read more of her books. I am SO glad I preordered this because I will be recommending this for a long time.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an audiobook copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 24, 2023
Old family secrets form the backdrop of The Letter Tree, a compelling tale set in twentieth century New York. A feud that made bitter rivals of two families comes to a head when a romance ignites between their son and daughter. With a deft touch, Fordham weaves themes of freedom and forgiveness into this enchanting story. The sweet romance and multi-layered mystery keep the pages turning!
July 31, 2023
The Letter Tree was such a lovely read. If a 1920s spin on Romeo and Juliet and a letter tree at a zoo sound up your alley, then TLT is the perfect read!
I so appreciated the themes of reconciliation, breaking generational cycles of conflict and bitterness, and complicated family relationships were explored in this story. There were also a lot of moments of witty banter and scenes that were really touching.
My only complaint is that the climax wasn’t as climaxy (yes, I know that’s not a real word, but I’m using it any way lol) as I’d hoped. But otherwise, this was a lovely read!
“We can put more books on the shelves. We can fix what’s broken.”
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The Letter Tree. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
I so appreciated the themes of reconciliation, breaking generational cycles of conflict and bitterness, and complicated family relationships were explored in this story. There were also a lot of moments of witty banter and scenes that were really touching.
My only complaint is that the climax wasn’t as climaxy (yes, I know that’s not a real word, but I’m using it any way lol) as I’d hoped. But otherwise, this was a lovely read!
“We can put more books on the shelves. We can fix what’s broken.”
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The Letter Tree. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
January 7, 2024
My first read & 5 star of 2024 🥹🌳💌
The Letter Tree was one of the most unique, beautifully written stories I’ve ever read, and it absolutely left me in a puddle. I found myself simultaneously eager to find out the end while also never wanting it to end.
Romeo and Juliet meets You’ve Got Mail in this timeless love story set on the backdrop of 1920s Buffalo, New York. Two childhood friends and star-crossed lovers, torn apart by their families’ feud, fall in love by way of anonymous letter-writing.
There were so many things to love about this book: the letters, the Buffalo Zoo, the random bits of 1920s history weaved throughout, and the side characters even stole my heart (Mrs. Guskin, especially)! But, can we talk about the way Isaac loved Laura? I weep. This is the purest kind of love.
Full of romance, history, and a mystery, too, I feel like I can recommend this to a wide audience. I truly can’t wait to push this into the hands of my friends!
*Slow burn, clean romance, light kissing only.
*Very subtle faith content (mentions of God).
*No swearing, at least none that I remember.
The Letter Tree was one of the most unique, beautifully written stories I’ve ever read, and it absolutely left me in a puddle. I found myself simultaneously eager to find out the end while also never wanting it to end.
Romeo and Juliet meets You’ve Got Mail in this timeless love story set on the backdrop of 1920s Buffalo, New York. Two childhood friends and star-crossed lovers, torn apart by their families’ feud, fall in love by way of anonymous letter-writing.
There were so many things to love about this book: the letters, the Buffalo Zoo, the random bits of 1920s history weaved throughout, and the side characters even stole my heart (Mrs. Guskin, especially)! But, can we talk about the way Isaac loved Laura? I weep. This is the purest kind of love.
Full of romance, history, and a mystery, too, I feel like I can recommend this to a wide audience. I truly can’t wait to push this into the hands of my friends!
*Slow burn, clean romance, light kissing only.
*Very subtle faith content (mentions of God).
*No swearing, at least none that I remember.
May 5, 2023
Long ago his words had stolen her heart, and now here he was, holding it in his hands. ~ Laura
If the eyes are windows to the soul, then letters are the gate way to the heart. There is just something about a handwritten letter. It is personal, it can be liberating, soothing, telling, unrestrained. There is a peace in putting pen to paper, letting your thoughts and feelings flow freely, allowing pieces of your soul to be bared. A release, an unburdening, a comfort. Letters are one of my favorite aspects of Rachel’s stories. She loves incorporating them and it is always special to experience the characters hopes, dreams, and fears this way.
The Letter Tree is the story of two feuding families, once close friends and business partners, William Campbell and Stanley Bradshaw, and their children Isaac and Laura. When William’s brother is drafted to the war and Laura’s mother dies in a freak accident, the world as Issac and Laura knows it crumbles. The business is split up, the children no longer allowed to see one another, and the families become mortal enemies.
Laura seeks solace in the park and zoo that she had spent so much time in with her mother. In a rush to get home undetected one afternoon, she hides a poem she penned in a tree. On her trip back to retrieve it, she finds the letter missing and another in its place. For the next seven years she exchanges letters with her letter friend, only to realize that it is the one person in the world she cannot befriend.
This story is a sort of Romeo and Juliet/You’ve Got Mail mash up. The feud is fierce between the families and any type of relationship that Laura and Isaac could have together would be strictly forbidden. But years of secretly communicating with a not-so-unknown stranger has laid the foundation for a beautiful, tender bond. Can they bring their families together by uncovering the mystery of the rift?
There are so many sweet moments in this story. I love how Isaac cares for Laura and tries to protect her even though he is supposed to hate her. Laura loves fairy tales and animals. Throughout the course of the book she finds her voice and some backbone, and she is determined to fight for the future she wants.
Loved this one, as I love all of Rachel’s books! She is an auto buy author for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advanced copy, all opinions are my own.
If the eyes are windows to the soul, then letters are the gate way to the heart. There is just something about a handwritten letter. It is personal, it can be liberating, soothing, telling, unrestrained. There is a peace in putting pen to paper, letting your thoughts and feelings flow freely, allowing pieces of your soul to be bared. A release, an unburdening, a comfort. Letters are one of my favorite aspects of Rachel’s stories. She loves incorporating them and it is always special to experience the characters hopes, dreams, and fears this way.
The Letter Tree is the story of two feuding families, once close friends and business partners, William Campbell and Stanley Bradshaw, and their children Isaac and Laura. When William’s brother is drafted to the war and Laura’s mother dies in a freak accident, the world as Issac and Laura knows it crumbles. The business is split up, the children no longer allowed to see one another, and the families become mortal enemies.
Laura seeks solace in the park and zoo that she had spent so much time in with her mother. In a rush to get home undetected one afternoon, she hides a poem she penned in a tree. On her trip back to retrieve it, she finds the letter missing and another in its place. For the next seven years she exchanges letters with her letter friend, only to realize that it is the one person in the world she cannot befriend.
This story is a sort of Romeo and Juliet/You’ve Got Mail mash up. The feud is fierce between the families and any type of relationship that Laura and Isaac could have together would be strictly forbidden. But years of secretly communicating with a not-so-unknown stranger has laid the foundation for a beautiful, tender bond. Can they bring their families together by uncovering the mystery of the rift?
There are so many sweet moments in this story. I love how Isaac cares for Laura and tries to protect her even though he is supposed to hate her. Laura loves fairy tales and animals. Throughout the course of the book she finds her voice and some backbone, and she is determined to fight for the future she wants.
Loved this one, as I love all of Rachel’s books! She is an auto buy author for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advanced copy, all opinions are my own.
Read
May 16, 2023**Read for endorsement**
Penned with engaging prose, The Letter Tree offers a fresh approach to the forbidden romance trope. Throw in a riveting plot, a cast of layered characters, plus the vivid backdrop of the Roaring 20s, and you have an enthralling novel that is sure to captivate readers’ hearts. This story is not to be missed!
Penned with engaging prose, The Letter Tree offers a fresh approach to the forbidden romance trope. Throw in a riveting plot, a cast of layered characters, plus the vivid backdrop of the Roaring 20s, and you have an enthralling novel that is sure to captivate readers’ hearts. This story is not to be missed!
February 18, 2025
*2025 reread*: Who knew (God of course), that I'd be working at a zoo upon rereading this sweet story?! Besides the awesome animals, Laura and Isaac's courage in deciding to break the pattern of their families' hatred and their growth as characters really stood out to me this time.
By far my favorite book by this author. It was exactly what I wanted to read. Mystery, heartstopping romance, relatable characters, dreams come true, and glamorous '20s history put this over the top. These characters and their romance melted me. It was super sweet and super meaningful, and reading Laura's journey of bravery really resonated with me. One of my favorites, this was absolutely perfect!
By far my favorite book by this author. It was exactly what I wanted to read. Mystery, heartstopping romance, relatable characters, dreams come true, and glamorous '20s history put this over the top. These characters and their romance melted me. It was super sweet and super meaningful, and reading Laura's journey of bravery really resonated with me. One of my favorites, this was absolutely perfect!
November 15, 2023
I will call it an act of faith and believe that you will come back and find this and that you and I are meant to be friends. When you find this, write again. Tell me why you left your poetry and why your words have me believing you are sad.
if I can't be pined after by the son of my father's nemesis who brings me cake and asks me out next to a manure pile then what's the POINT 😂
I'm an absolute softie for anonymous pen pal romances, and this was no exception. The tagline said "Romeo and Juliet meet You've Got Mail" and I said "yes please" (sidenote @ my friends who, like me, are obsessed with "Divine Rivals" this year, read this next. trust me. ...unless the fantasy element is what you liked about it... still read this but it's just hisfic soooo)
Thrilled to report that this was delightful. I read it in two days because I didn't want to put it down. It had the perfect amount of angst without being too much, and while it did fall into the tropes that are typical of this kind of story, it did put a twist on some of them that I very much enjoyed! I was rooting for Laura from the first page, she deserves the entire world, and I'm thrilled that Isaac is happy to give it to her, haha! (I'm not really an enemies-to-lovers girlie, so this "our parents are enemies but we used to be friends and don't really have beef" energy was PERFECT) The romance is definitely the most driving force of the book, but there's a bit of a mystery plotline as well. The mystery didn't have the most exciting finale, but again, the romance is the key thing, and it's adorable.
I laughed a lot, and cried a little, and it was perfect for me personally, tbh. Now if you'll excuse me I'm off to listen to "She Loves Me" on repeat. 5 stars!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
(an extra sidenote, I listened to the audiobook in tandem with the e-book, and I LOVED the narrator, she did an excellent job!)
if I can't be pined after by the son of my father's nemesis who brings me cake and asks me out next to a manure pile then what's the POINT 😂
I'm an absolute softie for anonymous pen pal romances, and this was no exception. The tagline said "Romeo and Juliet meet You've Got Mail" and I said "yes please" (sidenote @ my friends who, like me, are obsessed with "Divine Rivals" this year, read this next. trust me. ...unless the fantasy element is what you liked about it... still read this but it's just hisfic soooo)
Thrilled to report that this was delightful. I read it in two days because I didn't want to put it down. It had the perfect amount of angst without being too much, and while it did fall into the tropes that are typical of this kind of story, it did put a twist on some of them that I very much enjoyed! I was rooting for Laura from the first page, she deserves the entire world, and I'm thrilled that Isaac is happy to give it to her, haha! (I'm not really an enemies-to-lovers girlie, so this "our parents are enemies but we used to be friends and don't really have beef" energy was PERFECT) The romance is definitely the most driving force of the book, but there's a bit of a mystery plotline as well. The mystery didn't have the most exciting finale, but again, the romance is the key thing, and it's adorable.
I laughed a lot, and cried a little, and it was perfect for me personally, tbh. Now if you'll excuse me I'm off to listen to "She Loves Me" on repeat. 5 stars!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
(an extra sidenote, I listened to the audiobook in tandem with the e-book, and I LOVED the narrator, she did an excellent job!)
June 25, 2023
Buffalo, New York 1924
Lovely! A 1920s blend of the movie "You've Got Mail" and tale of Romeo and Juliet.
The owners of two shoe manufacturers fall from best friends to enemies leaving their two children Isaac and Laura casualties of the feud.
Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell go their own ways as there is no other option. As young adults neither has found their true love and delight in exchanging letters at "The Letter Tree" with a mysterious and beloved stranger.
This novel has a villain, romance, historical details and a bit of mystery too. Enjoyable! This might be my new favorite (previously Yours Truly, Thomas).
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Lovely! A 1920s blend of the movie "You've Got Mail" and tale of Romeo and Juliet.
The owners of two shoe manufacturers fall from best friends to enemies leaving their two children Isaac and Laura casualties of the feud.
Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell go their own ways as there is no other option. As young adults neither has found their true love and delight in exchanging letters at "The Letter Tree" with a mysterious and beloved stranger.
This novel has a villain, romance, historical details and a bit of mystery too. Enjoyable! This might be my new favorite (previously Yours Truly, Thomas).
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
September 30, 2024
A darling historical fiction romance! This book was so cozy and perfect to kick off fall with. If you love the 1920s era as much as I do, definitely add this to your TBR.
This is a heartfelt romance about two grown children on opposite sides of a former partnership turned feud between two families who have unknowingly exchanged letters with each other for years. I loved how sweet and unique this story was! The writing style was wonderfully descriptive and I felt like I was watching a 1920’s era movie play out in my head. This is not a fast-paced book but it’s not terribly slow either. I do wish there had been a bit more action at times, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. The audio narration was great and I was able to listen to it on Hoopla through my local library- highly recommend listening to this one!
What to expect:
- 1920’s historical elements/setting
- Clean, cozy romance
- Letter exchanges
- Romeo and Juliet elements
- Touch of mystery
This is a heartfelt romance about two grown children on opposite sides of a former partnership turned feud between two families who have unknowingly exchanged letters with each other for years. I loved how sweet and unique this story was! The writing style was wonderfully descriptive and I felt like I was watching a 1920’s era movie play out in my head. This is not a fast-paced book but it’s not terribly slow either. I do wish there had been a bit more action at times, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. The audio narration was great and I was able to listen to it on Hoopla through my local library- highly recommend listening to this one!
What to expect:
- 1920’s historical elements/setting
- Clean, cozy romance
- Letter exchanges
- Romeo and Juliet elements
- Touch of mystery
August 6, 2023
Such a sweet, clean romance, complete with great, imperfectly relatable characters.
If you're me, and you passionately dislike Romeo and Juliet, The Letter Tree does an exceptional job of using the trope intelligently. First, it allows the characters to have more depth than just being attracted to each other, despite their family's feud. Secondly, they are friends first-and-foremost, also slightly more mature. They put aside their feelings and focus on trying to heal the rift between their families.
To all Romeo and Juliet fans out there: I know it's supposed to be one of the greatest love stories of all time, but to me, they will forever be immature kids who knew practically nothing about each other and who end up dead, painted as victims of their families not being able to make peace. Not at all my idea of a romantic ending.
Laura and Isaac are also caught in a 1924 family feud. They were close growing up, but a secret puts a wedge in their dads' friendship and splits their shared shoe factory into two competing separate companies. As collateral damage of this, Laura's mom dies and Isaac's parents become overprotective of him. Both kids are taught to hate each other as part of their new family dynamics, but they find a way to keep their souls connected through the letters they exchange in the nook of a tree.
Their love story is a tale of friendship, mutual support and respect. Laura is smart, kind and forgiving. Her most inspiring trait is her compassion towards her father, even when he hurts her, although her independence and love of animals and a simple life is also in the top 3. She trusts that happiness and the good in people can endure and push away the pent-up anger and pain.
Isaac longs to be seen as more than a care-free, untrustworthy youngster who should make sure he makes the best out of his youth. With Laura's help, he eventually grows up into an independent man, deserving of respect and the love he spent years yearning for.
Reading this book was like a drink of hot cocoa on a rainy day.
A special thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson--FICTION for the ARC.
If you're me, and you passionately dislike Romeo and Juliet, The Letter Tree does an exceptional job of using the trope intelligently. First, it allows the characters to have more depth than just being attracted to each other, despite their family's feud. Secondly, they are friends first-and-foremost, also slightly more mature. They put aside their feelings and focus on trying to heal the rift between their families.
To all Romeo and Juliet fans out there: I know it's supposed to be one of the greatest love stories of all time, but to me, they will forever be immature kids who knew practically nothing about each other and who end up dead, painted as victims of their families not being able to make peace. Not at all my idea of a romantic ending.
Laura and Isaac are also caught in a 1924 family feud. They were close growing up, but a secret puts a wedge in their dads' friendship and splits their shared shoe factory into two competing separate companies. As collateral damage of this, Laura's mom dies and Isaac's parents become overprotective of him. Both kids are taught to hate each other as part of their new family dynamics, but they find a way to keep their souls connected through the letters they exchange in the nook of a tree.
Their love story is a tale of friendship, mutual support and respect. Laura is smart, kind and forgiving. Her most inspiring trait is her compassion towards her father, even when he hurts her, although her independence and love of animals and a simple life is also in the top 3. She trusts that happiness and the good in people can endure and push away the pent-up anger and pain.
Isaac longs to be seen as more than a care-free, untrustworthy youngster who should make sure he makes the best out of his youth. With Laura's help, he eventually grows up into an independent man, deserving of respect and the love he spent years yearning for.
Reading this book was like a drink of hot cocoa on a rainy day.
A special thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson--FICTION for the ARC.
June 1, 2024
ADORED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This was just SWEET y’all. That’s the best way to describe it. I was enchanted by the entire concept and loved how it played out. I seem to love hidden identity letter writing books and need to go find more of those.
I loved the time period and setting, the zoo content was this nice little addition. I loved the main characters (dual POV and dual narrators y’all!). Laura and Isaac clearly have this connection that is undeniable. I loved how they found a way to each other. There’s a subtle Romeo and Juliet vibe that played a distinct part in the plot that I enjoyed too. There’s lots of themes of forgiveness, hope and fighting for the truth.
This book took me by surprise in all the best ways. Highly recommend the audio. It is gentle and tender and brimming with all the good things.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: watching a parent die (car accident), loss of a loved one (WW1), consuming alcohol without consent
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This was just SWEET y’all. That’s the best way to describe it. I was enchanted by the entire concept and loved how it played out. I seem to love hidden identity letter writing books and need to go find more of those.
I loved the time period and setting, the zoo content was this nice little addition. I loved the main characters (dual POV and dual narrators y’all!). Laura and Isaac clearly have this connection that is undeniable. I loved how they found a way to each other. There’s a subtle Romeo and Juliet vibe that played a distinct part in the plot that I enjoyed too. There’s lots of themes of forgiveness, hope and fighting for the truth.
This book took me by surprise in all the best ways. Highly recommend the audio. It is gentle and tender and brimming with all the good things.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: watching a parent die (car accident), loss of a loved one (WW1), consuming alcohol without consent
September 11, 2024
I’m always inclined toward a sweet letter-writing romance; so let’s say I was predisposed to enjoy this happily-ever-after story! Take a storyline reminiscent of You’ve Got Mail, throw in a little mystery, some questionable characters, and a feud and you’ve got yourself this flapper-era historical fiction.
The pace felt a bit slow at points and I didn’t connect super strongly with the characters, but overall it’s an easy going plot and enjoyable read!
😇 Christian publisher; sparse faith content; occasional references to God or “higher power”
💋: a few sweet kisses
🤐: no language
I received a complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
The pace felt a bit slow at points and I didn’t connect super strongly with the characters, but overall it’s an easy going plot and enjoyable read!
😇 Christian publisher; sparse faith content; occasional references to God or “higher power”
💋: a few sweet kisses
🤐: no language
I received a complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
February 6, 2025
This book absolutely stole my heart. It was the kind of book where I wanted to know the ending while at the same time I was not ready to say good-bye.
♡ the 1920s setting
♡ the zoo animals
♡ the forbidden friendship
♡ the handwritten letters
♡ the beauty of forgiveness
♡ You’ve Got Mail/Romeo & Juliet/Rapunzel
I was here for all of it! I look forward to picking up more from Rachel Fordham.
In the author’s note, she mentioned that this was also written at the same time as taking in a new foster baby. As a foster mama who has been through similar situations, I’m amazed that anything was accomplished, let alone writing such a beautiful book.
♡ the 1920s setting
♡ the zoo animals
♡ the forbidden friendship
♡ the handwritten letters
♡ the beauty of forgiveness
♡ You’ve Got Mail/Romeo & Juliet/Rapunzel
I was here for all of it! I look forward to picking up more from Rachel Fordham.
In the author’s note, she mentioned that this was also written at the same time as taking in a new foster baby. As a foster mama who has been through similar situations, I’m amazed that anything was accomplished, let alone writing such a beautiful book.
October 30, 2023
I absolutely love stories that take place in the Roaring 20’s! Combine that with a forbidden Romeo & Juliet love story and nods to romantic favorite movie You’ve Got Mail and you have one amazing story! Rachel Fordham is a favorite author who interjects the perfect amount of romance, emotion and faith. From the start I was pulled into this story of childhood friends whose fathers become bitter business rivals/enemies with the children caught in the middle and banished from seeing one another again. Through anonymous, secret letters, these would be enemies develop a beautiful friendship which turns to more as the years go by. But what happens when they discover who each other’s secret pen pal is?
Feeling alone after her mother’s death, 14 year old Laura Bradshaw writes an anonymous poem and places it in a maple tree at the Buffalo Zoo. When she goes back to retrieve it, she’s surprised to find it gone and a letter from an anonymous boy (Isaac Campbell) in its stead. As the letters continue for seven years between “wishing girl” and “the boy who threw pinecones,” their fondness for one another increases. When they each discover who’s behind the letters, they have to decide whether to continue their relationship or the feud between their shoe manufacturing families.
The feud is intriguing and I was definitely pulled into the mystery behind it. Isaac hires a private investigator when his father refuses to provide answers, but also does some sleuthing on his own. There’s also another mystery surrounding the suitor Laura’s father has chosen for her. Everything leads up to an exciting conclusion with all the pieces to the puzzle revealed.
I loved this book! I loved the letters between Laura and Isaac. I’ve always thought it would be fun to exchange letters with someone in a secret location and this book fulfilled that romantic wish. I enjoyed how they each found out separately who their secret pen pal was and their complicated, forbidden relationship after. Both want to see the feud end and I loved how they worked together to solve the mystery and save their families’ businesses from potential ruin. I also loved the way they encouraged each other to develop new talents and forge new paths.
I loved the feel of the Roaring 20’s glamour with flapper dresses, jazz, and Prohibition. I enjoyed the historical 1920’s Buffalo, NY setting with attention to the details of the times and the Buffalo zoo. In addition to the sweet romance, I also loved the touch of humor and faith. Loved how the author created well developed, endearing side characters. I adored Mrs. Guskin, the housekeeper who’s a kind confidant & mother figure to Laura, and Isaac’s friend Charles with his long engagement.
Highly recommend this heartfelt, tender, enemies to lovers romance with forgiveness, faith, and mystery! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Feeling alone after her mother’s death, 14 year old Laura Bradshaw writes an anonymous poem and places it in a maple tree at the Buffalo Zoo. When she goes back to retrieve it, she’s surprised to find it gone and a letter from an anonymous boy (Isaac Campbell) in its stead. As the letters continue for seven years between “wishing girl” and “the boy who threw pinecones,” their fondness for one another increases. When they each discover who’s behind the letters, they have to decide whether to continue their relationship or the feud between their shoe manufacturing families.
The feud is intriguing and I was definitely pulled into the mystery behind it. Isaac hires a private investigator when his father refuses to provide answers, but also does some sleuthing on his own. There’s also another mystery surrounding the suitor Laura’s father has chosen for her. Everything leads up to an exciting conclusion with all the pieces to the puzzle revealed.
I loved this book! I loved the letters between Laura and Isaac. I’ve always thought it would be fun to exchange letters with someone in a secret location and this book fulfilled that romantic wish. I enjoyed how they each found out separately who their secret pen pal was and their complicated, forbidden relationship after. Both want to see the feud end and I loved how they worked together to solve the mystery and save their families’ businesses from potential ruin. I also loved the way they encouraged each other to develop new talents and forge new paths.
I loved the feel of the Roaring 20’s glamour with flapper dresses, jazz, and Prohibition. I enjoyed the historical 1920’s Buffalo, NY setting with attention to the details of the times and the Buffalo zoo. In addition to the sweet romance, I also loved the touch of humor and faith. Loved how the author created well developed, endearing side characters. I adored Mrs. Guskin, the housekeeper who’s a kind confidant & mother figure to Laura, and Isaac’s friend Charles with his long engagement.
Highly recommend this heartfelt, tender, enemies to lovers romance with forgiveness, faith, and mystery! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
November 7, 2023
С чиста съвест мога да кажа две неща : The Letter Tree на Rachel Fordham беше най - чаканата от мен книга за тази година. И The Letter Tree ще бъде най - вълнуващото заглавия на 2023 - та в личната ми класация.
Как се чете книга, в която героите стъпват в същите обувки като мен. И някъде по пътя разбират, че нищо не може да бъде едно и също до безкрай ; че в един момент всеки от приятелите тръгва в друга посока, променя интереса си и забравя отношения. Другия остава с цялата си лоялност, надежда и вяра, че написаните откровения не са само думи върху хартия. Но истината е, че нещата, колкото и прекрасни и обещаващи да са, в даден момент се променят. И земята на надеждата променя оста си . За добро или за зло.
Най - любимите ми образи са на страниците на тази желана книга! Обичам да чета за 20 - те години на миналия век. В случая действието се развива през 1924 - та година в град Бъфало, Ню Йорк. В ума си пресметнах, че тогава моята любима баба е била на 4 годинки. Тепърва е навлизала в едно вълнуващо и много драматично време. Потърсих музикалните предложения и модните тенденции за онова време и се насладих на романтичния пукот на грамофонна плоча с гласа на Henry Burr и Sammy Kaye. А прекрасните рокли и ленти за коса от онова време помня от старите фотографии на баба.
Романтика, мистерия, лек детективски момент, пътуване до Ниагара, нежна тайна кореспонденция между деца, които постепенно порастват и разбират, че понякога да си наследник на богати фамилии може да е самотно и тъжно. Няма нищо по - хубаво обаче от това да можеш да споделиш страховете и мечтите си на някой доверен човек. Дори и да не си го виждал. Дори и да общувате само чрез писма. Важна е нежната подкрепа, идваща към теб.
Докато един ден не видиш някой, който бърка в твоята пощенска хралупа на дървото за писма!
* " Как някой се молеше приятел да остане, когато другия иска да си тръгне ? "
* " Можем да искаме нещо, можем да копнеем за него. Това не означава, че можем да го имаме. "
Как се чете книга, в която героите стъпват в същите обувки като мен. И някъде по пътя разбират, че нищо не може да бъде едно и също до безкрай ; че в един момент всеки от приятелите тръгва в друга посока, променя интереса си и забравя отношения. Другия остава с цялата си лоялност, надежда и вяра, че написаните откровения не са само думи върху хартия. Но истината е, че нещата, колкото и прекрасни и обещаващи да са, в даден момент се променят. И земята на надеждата променя оста си . За добро или за зло.
Най - любимите ми образи са на страниците на тази желана книга! Обичам да чета за 20 - те години на миналия век. В случая действието се развива през 1924 - та година в град Бъфало, Ню Йорк. В ума си пресметнах, че тогава моята любима баба е била на 4 годинки. Тепърва е навлизала в едно вълнуващо и много драматично време. Потърсих музикалните предложения и модните тенденции за онова време и се насладих на романтичния пукот на грамофонна плоча с гласа на Henry Burr и Sammy Kaye. А прекрасните рокли и ленти за коса от онова време помня от старите фотографии на баба.
Романтика, мистерия, лек детективски момент, пътуване до Ниагара, нежна тайна кореспонденция между деца, които постепенно порастват и разбират, че понякога да си наследник на богати фамилии може да е самотно и тъжно. Няма нищо по - хубаво обаче от това да можеш да споделиш страховете и мечтите си на някой доверен човек. Дори и да не си го виждал. Дори и да общувате само чрез писма. Важна е нежната подкрепа, идваща към теб.
Докато един ден не видиш някой, който бърка в твоята пощенска хралупа на дървото за писма!
* " Как някой се молеше приятел да остане, когато другия иска да си тръгне ? "
* " Можем да искаме нещо, можем да копнеем за него. Това не означава, че можем да го имаме. "
November 19, 2025
Rachel Fordham again won me over with her deep, intriguing characters, a family feud almost Romeo and Juliet style, and a leading lady captive in a father’s grief who just wanted to break free.
Laura and Isaac were such dynamic characters. I loved that we had POV’s from both of them. Laura had captured my heart early on, but Isaac with his desire to be more than what was expected and romantic deep side totally stole my heart.
I loved the letter tree and how it gave the characters a safe haven to share their thoughts and feelings. I was also happy that Laura saw through the falseness of Alex and was part of getting to the truth vs just being the damsel in distress waiting to be saved.
The plot around who Axel was and what he was up to and the mystery around the feud and how Laura’s mom and Isaac’s uncle were involved, kept me turning the pages.
I enjoyed every moment I spent in the lives of Laura and Isaac.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Laura and Isaac were such dynamic characters. I loved that we had POV’s from both of them. Laura had captured my heart early on, but Isaac with his desire to be more than what was expected and romantic deep side totally stole my heart.
I loved the letter tree and how it gave the characters a safe haven to share their thoughts and feelings. I was also happy that Laura saw through the falseness of Alex and was part of getting to the truth vs just being the damsel in distress waiting to be saved.
The plot around who Axel was and what he was up to and the mystery around the feud and how Laura’s mom and Isaac’s uncle were involved, kept me turning the pages.
I enjoyed every moment I spent in the lives of Laura and Isaac.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
April 18, 2025
this is a beautiful and moving tale of feuding families, loneliness, and love. A 1920s Romeo and Juliet set against a zoo and a beautiful maple tree. the premise is lovely and Fordham absolutely did it justice.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Rachel Fordham, and HarperCollins Publishing for my copy of this audiobook.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Rachel Fordham, and HarperCollins Publishing for my copy of this audiobook.
October 16, 2023
A family feud between the Campbell and Bradshaw families, is tested when the son and daughter from opposing families want to have a future. Laura is the daughter of the owner of the Bradshaw Shoe Company and after her mother died she has been kept out of the public. She has other ideas and sneaks out to the Buffalo Zoo and works with the animals.
Issac whose family is the competitor with the Campbell Shoe Company is wanted to carve his own path and not follow in his the footsteps of his family. He finds letters at the oak tree of the zoo and starts exchanging letters with a mysterious woman and he is enchanted.
Laura’s father is having her courted and she is not thrilled. She is much more interested in the gentleman she shares letters with.
I absolutely loved this novel. Full of hope, love and creating your own path in life. Do these two find their way and stop the feud between the families? Do they know they whom they are actually writing letters too?
Issac whose family is the competitor with the Campbell Shoe Company is wanted to carve his own path and not follow in his the footsteps of his family. He finds letters at the oak tree of the zoo and starts exchanging letters with a mysterious woman and he is enchanted.
Laura’s father is having her courted and she is not thrilled. She is much more interested in the gentleman she shares letters with.
I absolutely loved this novel. Full of hope, love and creating your own path in life. Do these two find their way and stop the feud between the families? Do they know they whom they are actually writing letters too?
May 14, 2023
4.25 ⭐️
“She closed her eyes, imagining a world where it didn’t matter that he was a Campbell and she was a Bradshaw. A world where they were free to make choices on their own, to pick the higher road.”
•
•
Romeo & Juliet meets Rapunzel in 1924 Buffalo, New York. With childhood friends, forbidden romance, a good old-fashioned family feud, sweet letters, an air of mystery, and a zoo (literally), this story was a delight!
Laura & Isaac certainly had a lot to overcome during the course of the story. I loved the concept of falling in love with someone’s words, long before falling in love with their face, along with Laura’s journey to finding her voice & wanting to be loved for who she was, not just what people tried to make her.
A couple side characters, namely Mrs. Guskin & Charles, totally stole the show (in a good way!). They both warmed my heart so much with their respective friendships with Laura & Isaac.
The story was a good reminder on the bitter price of anger & the beauty of reconciliation. As a side note, compared to the author’s earlier books I’ve read, there wasn’t nearly as much faith content. Just a handful of references to church and God having a sense of humour. But as mentioned, the message was still excellent!
And that epilogue… so utterly adorable & the prime example of why I love Charles & Isaac’s friendship so much, haha!
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
“She closed her eyes, imagining a world where it didn’t matter that he was a Campbell and she was a Bradshaw. A world where they were free to make choices on their own, to pick the higher road.”
•
•
Romeo & Juliet meets Rapunzel in 1924 Buffalo, New York. With childhood friends, forbidden romance, a good old-fashioned family feud, sweet letters, an air of mystery, and a zoo (literally), this story was a delight!
Laura & Isaac certainly had a lot to overcome during the course of the story. I loved the concept of falling in love with someone’s words, long before falling in love with their face, along with Laura’s journey to finding her voice & wanting to be loved for who she was, not just what people tried to make her.
A couple side characters, namely Mrs. Guskin & Charles, totally stole the show (in a good way!). They both warmed my heart so much with their respective friendships with Laura & Isaac.
The story was a good reminder on the bitter price of anger & the beauty of reconciliation. As a side note, compared to the author’s earlier books I’ve read, there wasn’t nearly as much faith content. Just a handful of references to church and God having a sense of humour. But as mentioned, the message was still excellent!
And that epilogue… so utterly adorable & the prime example of why I love Charles & Isaac’s friendship so much, haha!
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 2, 2024
The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham is a heartfelt romance. Under her father’s watchful eye Laura Bradshaw shares company and with only her family’s housekeeper and a parrot. Her secret is that she is able to exchange letters with someone in a tree. Isaac Campbell is the bachelor that everyone wants to know in Buffalo. But Isaac is only thinking about the young women he is exchanging letters with in an oak tree at the zoo.
If you take You’ve Got Mail mix it in with a redemptive Romeo and Juliet tale and a dash of mystery you will have The Letter Tree. I felt myself lost in this delightful character driven story that shines a light on unforgiveness and how it destroys us. It was a pleasure to watch the beautifully written characters transform in the story, and I enjoyed walking through life with them. Learning about the 1917 Buffalo Zoo, flag pole sittings, and Niagara Fall stunts were intriguing historical information. Isaac is a wonderful hero who learns to stand on his own and sacrifice for love.
This is a beautifully written, redemptive, heartfelt story. I was all in from the beginning to the end. I highly recommend!
I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a review.
If you take You’ve Got Mail mix it in with a redemptive Romeo and Juliet tale and a dash of mystery you will have The Letter Tree. I felt myself lost in this delightful character driven story that shines a light on unforgiveness and how it destroys us. It was a pleasure to watch the beautifully written characters transform in the story, and I enjoyed walking through life with them. Learning about the 1917 Buffalo Zoo, flag pole sittings, and Niagara Fall stunts were intriguing historical information. Isaac is a wonderful hero who learns to stand on his own and sacrifice for love.
This is a beautifully written, redemptive, heartfelt story. I was all in from the beginning to the end. I highly recommend!
I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a review.
February 23, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I was very intrigued by the idea of a mashup of Romeo and Juliet, You've Got Mail, and the 20s.
I enjoyed the letter writing aspect and I loved how immersive the author made the twenties time period and the zoo scenes.
There were some plot lines that I didn't think were fully explained and the solution to the mystery seemed really convenient, with shaky evidence.
Also, I didn't realize that this technically isn't a Christian novel until reading it, I was like wait...was this published by Thomas Nelson?! The theme of following your heart just felt like something huge was missing-- since I know Rachel Fordham can write faith, it just felt like a major missed opportunity to me.
I am glad that this couple, unlike Romeo and Juliet, got a happy ending.
Content: alcohol consumption, death of a parent
Christian faith rating: 0/3 clean fiction (a mention of prayer, one main character had thought there was a "higher power")
I was very intrigued by the idea of a mashup of Romeo and Juliet, You've Got Mail, and the 20s.
I enjoyed the letter writing aspect and I loved how immersive the author made the twenties time period and the zoo scenes.
There were some plot lines that I didn't think were fully explained and the solution to the mystery seemed really convenient, with shaky evidence.
Also, I didn't realize that this technically isn't a Christian novel until reading it, I was like wait...was this published by Thomas Nelson?! The theme of following your heart just felt like something huge was missing-- since I know Rachel Fordham can write faith, it just felt like a major missed opportunity to me.
I am glad that this couple, unlike Romeo and Juliet, got a happy ending.
Content: alcohol consumption, death of a parent
Christian faith rating: 0/3 clean fiction (a mention of prayer, one main character had thought there was a "higher power")
November 25, 2023
Yes! What a perfect blend of Romeo and Juliet and You've Got Mail. I loved the setting especially, since I used to intern at the Buffalo Zoo. The romance was very sweet and I especially love the letters that the characters corresponded with through the tree. There is also definitely some fun aspects of a mystery going on as well. I love Rachel Fordham's books and can't wait to pick up the next one. FYI I hardly ever preorder books, but I'm so glad I did with this one.
December 7, 2023
This was a charming story! I loved the letter writing element between Laura and Issac and the story was so entertaining and engaging. This is definitely one of my favorites of Rachel’s stories. Well done!
November 7, 2023
Super cute story! I love books that involve letters and this one is no different.♡ It was a fast, entertaining read with sweet romance - just what I was looking for.☺️
October 17, 2023
I adored this book with its Romeo and Juliet meets You’ve Got Mail vibes.
After the death of her mother, Laura writes a poem expressing her feelings and places it in the nook of a tree. However, when she goes back a few days later to retrieve the paper, she finds a reply letter instead. Laura and her mysterious pen pal keep exchanging letters for the next seven years forming a close friendship. But there’s one rule, they must not share their names.
This is a story of a secret friendship turned into forbidden love. I loved the 1920s New York setting and all the descriptions of the decade including fringe dresses, prohibition and the Brooklyn Zoo. This is a slower paced story but it flowed effortlessly. The letter writing was my favorite part of this story! I love the concept of two people falling in love over letters. With so many obstacles in their way, I loved how both main characters came together to solve the mystery over their feuding families.
This was such a tender and sweet story and one that I definitely recommend.
I also enjoyed the audiobook. The narrator did an excellent job portraying both main characters.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for both eARC and ALC. All opinions are my own.
📖
🔥 kissing only
🤬 none
❓ a character gets unintentionally drunk
After the death of her mother, Laura writes a poem expressing her feelings and places it in the nook of a tree. However, when she goes back a few days later to retrieve the paper, she finds a reply letter instead. Laura and her mysterious pen pal keep exchanging letters for the next seven years forming a close friendship. But there’s one rule, they must not share their names.
This is a story of a secret friendship turned into forbidden love. I loved the 1920s New York setting and all the descriptions of the decade including fringe dresses, prohibition and the Brooklyn Zoo. This is a slower paced story but it flowed effortlessly. The letter writing was my favorite part of this story! I love the concept of two people falling in love over letters. With so many obstacles in their way, I loved how both main characters came together to solve the mystery over their feuding families.
This was such a tender and sweet story and one that I definitely recommend.
I also enjoyed the audiobook. The narrator did an excellent job portraying both main characters.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for both eARC and ALC. All opinions are my own.
📖
🔥 kissing only
🤬 none
❓ a character gets unintentionally drunk
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