Ebook
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?
''Two houses' is how Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet begins and Rachel Fordham has captured the essence of that classic in The Letter Tree--but oh so much more. With wit and imagination, Ms. Fordham brings us a refreshing view of family mysteries, misunderstandings and the hope of forgiveness in even the most dire circumstances. I loved this story that is an inventively told and deeply considered romance. It is a joy to read and remember. Best of all, The Letter Tree has a much happier ending than that other work of 'Two houses.''
'The Letter Tree is a charming and captivating romance that reminds us of the transformative power of love, hope, and the written word. Palpable chemistry, complex familial relationships, and shared dreams that transcend barriers blend beautifully in this ambitious offering from Fordham. It was worth every emotional second from start to finish.'
'The Letter Tree is a little bit You've Got Mail and a little bit of Hallmark's Signed, Sealed Delivered and all sweet, immersive romance. Using delightful and beloved tropes to spin her own unique historical tapestry , Fordham's latest character-driven historical is destined to enthralled readers of Robin Lee Hatcher and Gabrielle Meyer.'
'The Letter Tree transported me to a place where characters feel real, dreams come true, and happily ever after is actually possible. It's everything I love in a book.'
'The Letter Tree is a sweet, heartfelt romance that contains all the things I love best in historical romance, including a beautiful epistolary element. Rachel Fordham writes with warmth and grace, crafting a winning love story that's sure to please. I thoroughly enjoyed it!'
'Another tender, emotionally satisfying book from Rachel Fordham. Rachel's masterful writing style and cleverly crafted storyline bring a lovely and heartfelt romance to life. Highly recommended.'
'Combining charming hints of You've Got Mail with the poignancy of Romeo and Juliet, The Letter Tree is a journey of forgiveness and reconciliation and overcoming differences. Rachel Fordham's characters are quirky and relatable, and fascinating bits of 1920s culture color the story. An enjoyable and romantic read!'
'In The Letter Tree, Rachel Fordham spins two classic romances--Romeo and Juliet and You've Got Mail--into an engaging story sure to charm readers. Exploring familial themes of loyalty vs truth, this is a poignant book meant for the true romantics out there who believe love triumphs and hope is never wasted, as well as those who may doubt. I challenge anyone to finish reading it and not feel uplifted. Perfect for fans of Karen Witemeyer and Jennifer Deibel.'
'Love transcends all in The Letter Tree. A sweet love story rife with tension that will keep readers guessing from start to finish.'
'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!'
'Once again author Rachel Fordham weaves her magic in this story of enduring love; and the importance of a long and lasting friendship, not only to withstand the heartache of hatred and misunderstanding, but to allow romance the chance to take root slowly, gently, steadily, becoming as strong and resilient as the mightiest oak. A tale both tender and endearing, The Letter Tree is sure to delight anyone who believes in true love.'
'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!'
'Skillfully layered and engaging from the start, this dashing tale of secret pen pals and forbidden romance set in the 1920's is sure to win the hearts of readers everywhere. An absolutely delightful read!'
'What a true delight! I couldn't wait to return to this gem of a novel and see what the next page held. I've never read anything quite like it, so I never knew what was coming next. The charming premise drew me in, and then I was hooked, and couldn't wait to see what would come of these letter writers stuck in an impossible situation, and how they would each find out the true identity of the other. This is the sort of timeless love story that charms you immediately and remains with you for a long time.'
Incorporating elements of Romeo and Juliet and You've Got Mail, Fordham's latest (after Where the Road Bends) will become a favorite for fans of romances with star-crossed lovers who still find their way to a happily-ever-after.
Readers will enjoy Laura and Isaac's unique personalities at odds with the social expectations of 1920s Buffalo and its entertainments like flagpole-sitting and rolling over Niagara Falls in a barrel. A commercial subplot adds to the drama, and the beloved old elephant Big Frank adds to the charm.