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.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is the first book I read by Rachel Fordham and OMG…. I loved it.

The story, set in the 1920s, is about two families, the Bradshaws and Campbells, once close friends now enemies, which gave me Romeo & Juliet vibes. The world was described beautifully and the little details were amazing. It actually felt being there. The main characters are Isaac Campbell and Laura Bradshaw. I loved Laura and instantly connected with her, cause of her dreams, fantasy and love for animals. Her visits to the zoo and the memories of her mother and the emotions were well felt. The highlight for me was ‘her’ Maple tree, where for 7 years, she wrote and received letters from an ‘unknown’ person. The letters are so heartfelt that you just fall in love with handwritten letters again. Isaac is the sweetest protective guy and gosh, if I could fall in love with a fictional character, it will be him.

I can not wait to read more of Rachel Fordham books as this one was incredible. One of the best books I have read so far and definitely a must read if you like forbidden love, friends to lovers or enemies to lover tropes.

*Book Releases Oct 1, 2023*

Ever since I happened upon @rachel_fordham 's novels I fell in love and she is now one of my top 20 authors. So getting to read one of her upcoming books was a dream come true!

Her books are full of hope, romance, and heart. I absolutely love the main characters Isaac Campbell and Laura Bradshaw. It was amazing to read the letters they each wrote to each other and that trope of Friends to Lovers while also living the setting of real life Enemies to Lovers.

I loved that both Laura and Isaac just have the best hearts and good intentions. Laura's love of animals, whimsy and fairy tales rubs off on you and you want to dream and wish with her. Isaac on the other hand is such a protector and someone who you just want to gravitate towards.

The setting of early 1920's New York was perfection as well and I loved how Rachel described everything from the Brooklyn Zoo to the fringe dresses. It was just perfection.

If you are looking for a way to make time go faster while waiting for this book's release make sure to read the previous novels from Rachel Fordham. Her first one The Hope of Azure Springs will always be one that makes me cry when she pulls on my heartstrings and then swoon as the characters fall in love.

Seriously you cannot go wrong with any of her novels!

This is a beautifully written, sweet, heartfelt story that takes place in update New York, in the early 1920s. Two childhood friends have not been able to see each other or talk to one another for years because of a disagreement between their families.

The Bradshaw’s and the Campbell’s were business partners in the manufacturing of shoes and close family friends, until they were not. Nobody seemed to know exactly what created the rift between the two families who are now competitors in the shoe business. Neither of the families have spoken to each other for years.
At age fourteen, Laura Bradshaw loses her mother to an accident when a car hits her crossing the street. Sometime later, at a park near her house, Laura stuffs a poem she wrote into the hollow opening of her favorite tree. When she goes back to get the poem a few days later, instead she finds a letter addressed to the poem writer. She responds with another letter that she places in the tree. This exchange of letters using the tree as a mailbox, goes on for seven years. The letters provide a welcome escape for Laura from her solitary, dull, lonely life.

Such a heartfelt, fascinating story as the letter writing continues for many years. When the identify of one of the writers is accidently discovered, it causes an unexpected dilemma. This is a fascinating story of commitment, the revelation of unscrupulous business dealings and the forgiveness of long-held grievances and secrets.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Historical Fiction filled with a family feud, star crossed young love, and characters who love animals! I enjoyed every bit of this lighthearted story. Thank you #netgalley for the #ARC !!

This was my first Rachel Fordham novel, and it won’t be my last.

A beautifully written story about two families, once best friends and business partners, turned enemies.
The split between families tore two childhood friends, Laura Bradshaw and Issac Campbell apart.
After a young Laura lost her mother in a car accident, she wrote a poem but quickly hid it in a tree so no one would find it. A young boy came upon the poem and wrote a letter to the anonymous girl. And the letters exchange continued for 7 years anonymously.
As an adult Laura is often trapped in her house and can only escape to the Zoo for short periods of time, she’s looking for a key to her freedom. Isaac wants more responsibilities with his fathers company and they both want answers to why their families hate each other.
I adored Laura from the beginning, her love of animals and books and how kind her heart stayed throughout her circumstances, she’s also very brave. Isaac is so sweet and caring, I loved that he was brave enough to take things into his own hands regardless of the consequences.
The love Issac and Laura have for each other is so sweet and the lengths they have to go to be together is quite the journey.
I loved every word of this story. It flowed beautifully, the descriptions sucked me in like a movie. I highly recommend this for any romance reader out there.

I received a free copy for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I am loving this book so much! I am so blessed that God has given me the gift of reading and writing.
I'm going to start my review by saying this, Mrs.Guskin is a good woman and is a blessing to Laura Bradford. Laura is lucky to have her. I wish I had someone like Mrs. Guskin!
She's full of wisdom and wonderful advice like this one;
I love this quote from the Letter Tree because too often we give our hearts to the wrong men and vice versa;
Make sure he’s coming back for the right reasons.”
“It’s not a bad thing if my dating Abel helps Father, too. I may want to leave here, but I don’t wish ill on Father. "“You’ve a generous heart, but you don’t have to make Abel fit into it.And as for your father, he’ll have to decide if he wants to be happy. again— you can’t force it. Whatever happened before, it wasn’t your fault. "
“You go and have agood time. And remember: the right man will want to know all of you.”
I wish this were the case in all relationships especially in mine.
God gave us a choice to choose who we want.
Sometimes, it doesn't always make sense.
I'm like Laura I am afraid to close the door on someone so.we can each move on. He's who I thought would be a friend for life but I guess not.
This was a wonderful story and I love the idea of putting letters in a tree. Sort of like a pen pal! And at a zoo of all places! "Sigh"
This fueding between the Campbell and Bradford families I didn't much care for but it definitely makes the story interesting!
In my opinion, this is the best novel that Fordham has ever written! I loved every minute of it!
I will be adding this one to my keeper shelf as well and I look forward to her next story!
I highly recommend this beautiful story.
Thanks Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own!

This cute historical romance had me from the beginning and I didn't wanna stop reading until I was finished. I loved this so much it was a great book.
I just reviewed The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham. #TheLetterTree #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]

I wanted to add a little extra on to this review. I have been following this author on facebook for quite some time and really appreciate the genuineness about her and love for the foster care system. I highly encourage you to check her out there!



This was such an endearing book to read. The author takes the reader through a family feud and how it affects all of those around them. Woven throughout the book are the letters that are left in the tree over a period of 7 years. This was such a magical and unique aspect to the story! My favorite character was Mrs. Guskin and how she took such a motherly role with Laura!



Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

What a beautiful story of forgiveness that unfolds from a decades long feud and forbidden romance.

The Campbell and Bradshaw families have been business partners and best friends. When a tragic misunderstanding causes both the company and friendship to break apart, the youngest Campbell, Isaac, and Bradshaw, Laura, are forced to abandon their friendship.

Struggling with the sudden death of her mother and loss of her friend, Isaac, Laura finds solace in writing poetry and secret letters which she hides in her favorite tree at her favorite place, the Buffalo Zoo. A mischievous young Isaac finds himself stranded up that very tree in the zoo where he discovers the poem which leads to many letters between the two. Unbeknownst to them that they are trading letters with their sworn enemy, an undeniable bond forms between them. When they discover the identity of their secret pen pal, they must work together to uncover what created the feud in order to correct the past and protect the future.

A story filled with mystery, heartbreak, and joy that stays with the reader long after the last page is turned. I loved how the story centered around the letters where Laura & Isaac opened their hearts to their mysterious pen pal. This is definitely a must read!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Thank you to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the chance to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
I really liked this story. It takes place in Buffalo, NY in the early 1920"s. It like to read about that period in history, and I also liked the zoo setting and the animals. I thought the plot line was also interesting because not too many people write letters anymore (especially secret letters). I liked the romance as well as a little mystery. This book was a winner for me. Rachel Fordham is becoming one of my favorite authors, and I can't wait for her next book!

This tale of star-crossed lovers does exactly what it sets out to do. Add in a bit of mystery and a family feud and you have a winner! The Bradshaw and Campbell fathers may not like each other, but their children certainly do. This book follows their progress as they (re)discover each other and find ways to mend fences. The connections to Romeo and Juliet and You've Got Mail can be a bit heavy-handed at time, but I was swept into the world of 1920s Buffalo. Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC; all opinions are my own!

Notice: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Rachel Fordham uses elements famous in Romeo and Juliet and Rapunzel to tell a story of loss, feuding families, and love. Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell have two things in common: shoes and feuds. Once friends, the two were forced to sever contact when something ignites a long-lasting feud between their families.

Laura Bradshaw wrote a poem about her grievances and hid it in a maple tree. Isaac Campbell found her poem, which prompted him to write her a letter. This exchange turned into a long correspondence between the two.

Laura is a strong character who knows what she wants out of life, but her dreams are overshadowed by the dreams her father has for her. Isaac struggles to prove himself worthy of playing a role in his family’s shoe business.

Mrs. Guskins and Charles greatly encourage Laura and Isaac to take control and do what they want for a change. I enjoyed seeing these characters morph and grow into adults who want to grab the world by the horns and squeeze out every possibility.

This book has a classic feel, and it’s one that I won’t forget.

I want to extend a huge thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book.

An absolutely delightful book! I just finished reading this story and what a story! It captivated me from the very first chapter. Letters and majestic trees, the combination of these two makes my heart soar. I loved the idea, the story line, of corresponding with a secret friend. 😊

Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell find themselves in the middle of their families feud. It’s ultimately up to them to find a way to end the insensible differences amongst their parents.

The entire story kept me engrossed at all times. The feud and the secrets were very well written. I usually read historicals set in the 1800’s but thought to give this time period, 1920’s, a chance since I love this author’s writing. And let me tell you it was a delight to read. It transported me to the period, I’d pictured it all in my mind. The characters’ attires, the music they listened to, the books they read, the vehicles they drove, events surrounding the time and cities where the novel took place, everything was historically accurate, well researched facts. I appreciate when authors take their time to research and incorporate all those tidbits making their work more appealing to us readers, at least to me 😉

I always find it so neat to be familiar with settings used throughout a novel and the scene at Niagara Falls was fantastic. For one that has experienced the park and taken the Maid of the Mist tour, the descriptions of the falls were on point.

I felt deeply for Laura and Isaac. You cry with them in their dire moments but you also celebrate their victories. I loved Laura’s transformation, from her resigned and submissive conduct to one of resolution and courage. Isaac’s resolved was commendable too. I loved them both 😁
And who’s not going to love Mrs. Guskin? She was such a beautiful soul 😍

And what a sweet epilogue! It melted my heart 💕💕💕 In a true R & J fashion, ladder and all 😄

Laura 💚 Isaac

A beautiful story of forgiveness. A family feud that seemed like it’d never be mended but like the famous Roman poet Virgil wrote, “love conquers all”. A Romeo and Juliet story in a different era.

And I appreciate the Author’s Note stating the historical facts and the fictional ones.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Fiction through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham begins at a tree in the Brooklyn Zoo. At first, the story seems a little intriguing with the concept of a blind person that Laura Bradshaw crafts letters to and sticks into the trunk of a tree. I love the idea of Laura missing her mother and clinging to her books, which remind her of her mother. My father taught me my love of reading, and he passed away eight years ago. There are some books that I look at, and they remind me of him. Laura was a nicely developed character with hurts and a deep longing for love, animals, and her happy-ever-after. Isaac, on the other hand, is a man who, at the beginning of the story, really did not have any goals and dreams. As the story progresses, he changes and matures. The plot flowed well. I enjoyed the twist to the Shakespeare Romeo and Juliet type story. Now don’t think this is a Romeo and Juliet story because it is not. Just some similar ideas in the plot. The writing is fantastic and kept my attention throughout the entire story. Overall, The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham may start to read like a familiar story, but it moves delightfully through the imagination, capturing those moments of innocent love while trying to seek justice at the same time.

I received a complimentary copy of The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham from Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

A significant family feud provides the backdrop to this wonderfully entertaining novel. Just when you think there is no solution, you're reminded that love conquers all.

The idea of corresponding with a secret penpal is a delightful conceit that keeps us turning the pages. I was pulling for Laura and Isaac to find a way to mend the dispute between their families.

The author does a wonderful job of transporting the reader to the 1920s, and I appreciated how the research never got in the way of the story.

The settings are great, and now I really want to go to Niagara Falls!

The side character of Mrs. Guskin is a delight as well.

Loved the epilogue -- a heartwarming conclusion to an immersive and entertaining read.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance e-galley; all opinions are completely my own.

Rachel Fordham has a way of writing such sweet heartfelt stories. The Letter Tree is one such story.

Reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, two feuding families have separated Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell. Friends since childhood, their lives take a turn when their fathers split the business they were once partners with. Laura's mother died in an accident seven years prior and Isaac's uncle died in the Great War. But what happened for their families to become such sworn enemies?

Laura leaves a poem in the hollow of her favorite tree. When she returns a few days later to retrieve the poem she finds a letter which starts years of correspondence with an unknown writer. When the identity of the writer is discovered, it poses a new dilemma.

I found this story to be deep with emotion, as you find Laura and Isaac sharing their deepest thoughts with each other, not knowing it is their mortal enemy. How to resolve the distance between families as the mystery unfolds.

Good clean historical romance.

I received a complimentary an e-copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I LOVED this story! I enjoyed that a portion of this story takes place at the Buffalo, NY Zoo. This story takes you on a delightful trip to 1920s Buffalo NY where so much is happening after the Great War. A story of love and hate; you can't help but root for the heroine!

I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

This modern day Romeo and Juliet story by Rachel Fordham has held me captive and unable
To put it down.. Once I started this story it was all I could think about and needed to know how it ended. It is filled with intrigue and mystery but also a beautiful love story in the midst of tragedy. This is a story of love and forgiveness told like only this author has a way of doing. I will be thinking about this story for a while

I am so thankful to netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this title. All opinions are my own.

The Letter Tree was such a wonderful read! The concept of the letter tree itself felt fresh and was a unique way to build a bond between two people whose families were enemies. I loved the layers of mystery in the story- why was Laura's mom going to the war office? What was going on with Isaac's uncle? I wish there was a little more to the big reveal, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Beautifully written and wonderfully engaging, I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves a good love story and historical setting. Will definitely be checking out other books by this author!

I received a free copy o this book in exchange for my honest opinion and feedback.

A family feud that keeps two friends apart. A tree that holds letters that are exchanged over the years. A family secret. A father selling his daughter off to the highest bidder for a business deal. This book had it all! I loved the setting in the 1920s. Its such an interesting time in history. Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell were so sweet and I enjoyed watching their growth as people and in their romance. The details about the zoo and the pole sitting and the people that went over Niagara Falls in barrels were so interesting. I haven't read any books by Rachel Fordham before this one and I will definitely be reading more. The writing was captivating and flowed so well. Definitely check this one out!

Oh, but I loved this book! It's not my favorite time period. I'm not much of a flapper fan, but this book drew me in and I just wanted to step into the pages and tell the characters what to do. I mean they're great but I wanted them to figure out the truth and miss out on all the bad things.

This book read super quickly for me. I loved the character relationships and the dynamics of them.

Laura and Isaac used to be friends. They thought they'd be more someday. And I have to believe that their parents thought so too. But then something happens. And they don't know what. But it breaks their families up. Not only just their friendships but their shoe business. Now two partners are two rivals.

Laura is lonely. Her mother died being struck by an automobile and she saw the whole thing. Her father is not exactly loving and attentive to her. Thankfully she has a good housekeeper who is also a friend. And she has her letter tree.

What is a letter tree you might ask. It's a tree in the park (well now the zoo) that Laura stuck some poetry one day so her father wouldn't catch her with it. And a boy happened to find it when he climbed the tree to get away from a man he threw pinecones at. Neither knows the other's name.

But what happens when they find out who the other is? Can they move forward and have a relationship? Or will their friendship be gone forever?

And what about the man Laura's father wants her to court and marry? Should she marry him just so she can get out of the house?

Things just aren't adding up. Add in a letter from someone who might have information about the feud and it is a wonderful fast-paced mystery of sorts with some bits of suspense thrown in as well. Oh, and you can't forget the romance!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

THE LETTER TREE by RACHEL FORDHAM is a beautifully written book in which the stories of Rapunzel, Romeo and Juliet and the movie “You’ve Got Mail” blend together in a delightful romance that takes place in Buffalo in 1917, with unforgettable characters, both human and animal, and a well worked out plot. I love the sensitive way in which the author describes the characters’ feelings.
Laura Bradshaw would rather spend her time with her pet macaw, Tybalt, her books, and mucking out Big Frank the elephant’s enclosure at the zoo, than being a society girl. However, her father, whose entire focus since his wife died seems to be in making Bradshaw Shoes more successful than Campbell Shoes, insists on her impressing Abel Fredricks, who is offering him a good investment opportunity. Laura feels that marrying Abel could help her escape her father’s rigid rules and the house that has become her prison. However he does not know her like her “pinecone-throwing friend” does…..
Isaac Campbell has been forbidden to so much as speak to a Bradshaw because of the feud between the two families .His mother arranges a dinner party to which she invites all the eligible young ladies she can find, but he has no interest in any of them, preferring to dream of the “wishing girl” with whom he has been exhanging letters for seven years at the letter tree at the zoo. ……
There is mystery and betrayal, hatred and misunderstanding. Will there ever be forgiveness and reconciliation?
I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
I cannot recommend this lovely novel highly enough. It is one that I will read more than once.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own,

This story was amazing. It was the first I had read by Rachel Fordham, but it will not be my last! A "modern day" Romeo & Juliet (except set in the 1920s) but doesn't end in death. The letters the passed back and forth were sensational & I loved the conflict in the story. Not your typical romance conflict. This is a MUST read.
Thanks netgalley for a free ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

A beautifully poignant romance encapsulated in an original plot that delivered palpable chemistry, family drama, and a beautiful redemptive journey. The author skillfully captures the essence of the time period, immersing readers in the rich tapestry of Buffalo's society. The backdrop of the Bradshaw and Campbell shoe empires adds depth and intrigue to the story, setting the stage for the complex dynamics that unfold. The feuding families represent the barriers and prejudices that Laura and Isaac must overcome to pursue their desires and find true happiness. I was captivated by this emotional story.

I received a free advance review copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a favorable review. The opinions stated here are my own.

LOVED, LOVED!!!

Oh my, this book was adorable and witty and oh, so very romantic! This is a mix of Romeo and Juliet and You've Got Mail set in 1924 New York.

As heir to a large company, Isaac Campbell could have any woman he wants but he can think only of the women he has been exchanging letters with for the last several years. He doesn't know her name or what she looks like but decides he must act on his feelings when she writes that she is beginning to court a man her father wants her to marry.

Laura has wished to meet the man behind the letters for years but she has to be practical. He is a dream, and marrying her father's business associate will make her father happy and allow her to leave her gilded cage.

When Isaac realizes his pen pal is none other than Laura, the childhood friend he was forbidden from seeing after their fathers entered into a bitter feud, he must find a way for them to be together before it is too late.

What to Love:

1920s setting
You've Got Mail
Family feud
Dual POV
The letters
The zoo animals
Niagara Falls
The dung heap
Isaac's romantic gestures
Endearing side characters
The suspenseful moments
All the sweet kisses!

The characters were delightful and the setting was perfect. How romantic is it to leave letters for your sweetheart penpal in a tree at the zoo?

This story is sweet romance at its best! It's a stars-in-your-eyes romance, the kind that metaphorically sweeps you off your feet and gives you heart flutters and so many happy sighs.

This may be my new favorite book from this author. I absolutely adored this one and it has definitely earned a spot on my favorites shelf! Highly recommend for anyone who loves historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell had been freinds as kids but 7 years prior the friendshp between the two families split after Laura's mother died. The Bradshow and the Campbell familes have shoe factories and are competitors of each other. There is haterd between the two families. Laura is sort of a recluse since her mother died. Her only joy is her rowdy bird and her books. She has developed an unknown friendship with a mysterious stranger she exchanges letters with via a hollow in a tree located in the zoo. The ones exchanging letters are Laura Bradshow and Isaac Campbell but neither party knows who the other is until one day Isaac happens to find out. How can he continue a friendship with an ememy of his father? This is a story of star-crossed lovers. Can they overcome the haterd between the two families? This book got its inspiration from Romeo and Juliet and the modern tale You've Got Mail but this story has a happier ending.. What I liked about this book is that the two main characters were able to overcome the haterd that was between the two families.

I received this book compliments of netgalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Letter Tree
by Rachel Fordham
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Series: None
Rated: 5
Obtain: Borrow or buy
Back of the Book: “Mere words can’t end their families’ feud, but the Campbell heir and the Bradshaw heiress plan to write a future together.
Buffalo, NY, 1924
Laura Bradshaw adores stories with happily ever afters. But since her mother died seven years ago, the Bradshaw Shoe Company heiress has been as good as locked away in a tower. Her overbearing father cares little for her dreams, throwing himself instead into his tireless takedown of his competitor, the Campbell Shoe Company. However, Laura has been gifted with a reprieve: a mysterious friend with whom she’s been exchanging letters.
As heir to the Campbell Shoe Company, Isaac Campbell is a sought-after bachelor who has never felt an inkling of desire for the women who constantly bat their eyes at him. His thoughts are consumed by an oak tree in the Buffalo Zoo—or rather, the mystery woman he exchanges letters with courtesy of the tree. She’s been one of Isaac’s only joys in a life consumed by his father’s tireless hatred of Bradshaw. A hatred that, Isaac is coming to realize, may affect him more personally than he ever imagined.
When Laura’s father orchestrates a match between her and an important business owner, she resolves to pursue her only chance at freedom. But Isaac believes their story isn’t bound for a tragic ending. He’s certain there’s more to the Bradshaw-Campbell feud than meets the eye. And he won’t stop digging until he uncovers the truth that might bridge the divide between him and the woman whose words have captured his heart.”

Impressions: I loved this sweet historical romance; it was Romeo and Juliet in the 1920’s. I think the whole story was well written. The characters were charming and easy to cheer on as they navigated their situations. There was suspense, romance and a happy ending. What more could a girl ask for!?

Quotes: “‘ A friend told me that I’ve spent too much time thinking about what I want to get away from and that I should instead consider what I want to go to.’” -Sometimes shifting our focus is all we need to initiate a fresh perspective.

I received an ARC of this book via the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here. For more book reviews go to: https://thebluestockingbooknook.wordpress.com

Rachel Fordham delights readers with her heartwarming novel "The Letter Tree". Estranged through no fault of their own, childhood friends Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell unwittingly continue their friendship, unaware of the other's identity. Their unique method of communication is whimsical, emotional, and sweet.

With her exceptional talent, Rachel Fordham crafts a beautiful story with endearing characters and an engaging plot. Animal lover Laura is a delight, and her pet bird Tybalt has his own distinct personality. Isaac is steadfast and true, an ideal hero. Secondary characters are interesting as well, especially Abel Fredricks. The author brings the 20s to life with details of speakeasies, flagpole sitting, and going over Niagara Falls in a barrel.

Forgiveness is an important theme here, as two feuding families make peace. They're both victims of assumptions and misunderstandings. In hindsight one thinks "how did this even happen?" Yet, people react due to their feelings, not facts, all the time.

After reading Fordham's stellar debut novel, "The Hope of Azure Springs", I've been a dedicated fan of her work, and I've read all of her books. This author's prose is lovely, and she never disappoints.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an ARC of this outstanding read.

According to Rachel Fordham, author, the idea for The Letter Tree arose when she thought about the movie You've Got Mail and the Shakespearean novel Romeo and Juliet. I definitely got those vibes.

Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell are caught in the middle of their fathers' feud over business. Once partners, their fathers now are independent, successful businessmen. Over the years following the company breakup, Laura has been writing anonymously and placing letters in the knot of a maple tree. She immediately began receiving a response. Isaac accidentally found the anonymous first letter and began corresponding, also anonymously.

Will the once childhood friends ever learn who is on the other end of the letters? Will the truth of the business breakup ever be fully known? Will forgiveness be in the future for the families?

Full of exciting adventures, The Letter Tree is definitely a five-star read.

A copy was provided for my review. All opinions are my own.

This book was so good!
The plot was very different from other books I’ve read- really interesting and intriguing.
Just like the description it was a mix of Romeo and Juliet and You’ve Got Mail- so much fun to read.
I loved the mystery aspect of this romance it really held my interest. I also loved that this book was clean and sweet without being cheesy.
This may be my new favorite by this author.

I loved this read and kept page turning for answers.

Friends whom in the end teach their families to hate one another, to the point that they disown their own spouse in their minds, very sad.

The author does a great job of bringing the story alive, and there are actually two main stories here!

My mind could put together who was leaving the notes for one another, but the way the story was woven together was awesome! I didn't see some of the answers coming the way they did, great job!

This was a page turner read, and when I finished I wanted more! Be sure to read the author's notes!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

Once again, Rachel Fordham provides the reader with an original, clever and wholesome story about two people who have to take a risk to find their true destiny in life, including love and healing among family members. Laura and Isaac are friends, then split apart by a feud between their families. Both of them seek solace at the zoo and with reading letters from a mysterious pen pal that secretly leaves letters in a tree. This story is lovely, fun and original. I like the fact that the plot keeps evolving, twisting, turning and so much fun! There are villains and unsung heroes too! My favorite part is how Laura deals with the precious items that her father sells (no spoilers here) and how she deals with it. Just lovely! Also, the character Tybalt brings a few good chuckles too! Enjoy!

I have come to rely on Rachel Fordham for a great story with real history thrown in! I enjoyed every minute of reading her newest book, The Letter Tree.

Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell used to be friends as children. But their feuding fathers snuffed out any hope of friendship or romance between them. Lonely Laura left a letter in a hollow of a tree at the Buffalo Zoo and has been communicating with a secret friend for years. She feels like this man knows her inside and out. Isaac Campbell is the unsuspecting writer on the other end. He loves the woman behind the letters and compares other woman to her. When the two find out their respective identities, can Laura and Isaac overcome their own prejudices and discover what drove their fathers apart?

I loved all the characters in this book, even the elephant at the zoo. The descriptions of life in the 1920's are top notch. My favorite part was when Isaac first discovers Laura's identity. It is very reminiscent of the first meeting in You've Got Mail. You won't be disappointed in reading The Letter Tree!

The Letter Tree by Rachel Fordham is an exquisitely crafted Christian historical romance by talented wordsmith, Rachel Fordham. Set in the early 1920’s, this captivating story takes place in New York. I was immediately invested in the characters and their stories.

This is the tale of two families, Bradshaws and Campbells. They began as business partners in manufacturing of shoes and were close family friends for a time. What happens to dissolve both the partnership and friendship is a mystery for most of the book. Laura Bradshaw and Isaac Campbell, children of the feuding parents, each lose someone they love which dramatically changes their world. Laura pours out her heart into a prose that no one will read. She tucks it into her favorite tree and leaves it. Days later she goes back to retrieve it and to her surprise it has been replaced with a letter from an unknown person.

I loved this beautiful story. There were twists and turns, a mystery, romance, history, and a Christian message. The story was fascinating, and I could not put the book down until I had finished it. This is a page-turning delight!

The characters are artfully designed. Laura stole my heart. I rejoiced and cried with her. All of them are believable and very realistic. I loved the way the setting was vividly described. The homes and restaurants sounded amazing.

I highly recommend this delightful story. It would make a fabulous reading group choice. There is so much to discuss. I give this award worthy novel a 5 out of 5 stars rating. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest thoughts.

I loved this book. Just everything about it. I especially loved the idea of two strangers exchanging notes, using a hole in a tree as a mailbox. Issac and Laura knew each other as children, but after Laura's mother passed away and a family feud ensued between the Campbells and the Bradshaws, their friendship ended. It was all about loyalty to family.

It started when Laura hid some poetry in the tree. She didn't want anybody to see it. Then Issac, still a rapscallion of a kid, found it and left a note in its place. He didn't know who had written the poem and when he left his note, he didn't sign his name. When Laura went back to the tree to retrieve her work, she found the note instead. This started a campaign of writing notes and letters between them that revealed their hopes, dreams, and what was in the hearts to another person they did not know. But their words mattered. What was said carried each of them through some difficult times as well as some happy times. They got to see what was in the heart of the other without something like physical attraction muting the importance of that. What isn't to love about that?

Laura Bradshaw is a bit of a recluse, mostly because her father doesn't want her going out with the wrong people and putting a mark on the family name. Her mother is gone and her best friend is the housekeeper, Mrs. Guskin, and Laura's pet macaw, who has a colorful vocabulary. She loves books and animals and spends a lot of time at the zoo, mostly to drop letters in the tree to pick them up. She doesn't tell anyone, but Mrs. Guskin knows something is up and lays money aside to help Laura pay for admittance to the zoo. Laura is caught up in fairy tales and longs for a prince to save her, but it seems her prince is Abel, rather than the letter writer. She wants to please her father and he likes Abel... you get where this is going.

Issac, on the other hand, is a socialite. He's seen with the right girls at the right time and gets noticed. He knows his father wants him to take over the shoe factory someday and plans for that, but he discovers he has other talents. His father doesn't give him a whole lot of responsibility and it drives him nuts. He wants to do something and be his own man.

It's been a long time since I've wanted two characters to get their happily-ever-after like I wanted Issac and Laura to get theirs. The family feud was their biggest obstacle, but there were other things that were holding them back, too, that made the two of them turn into amateur detectives, another element of the book that I enjoyed.

Ultimately, this is a book packed with emotion, revelations for everyone that I didn't expect, and a true love wins ending. The epilogue was fantastic and had me laughing out loud.

Great read!

.

I was hooked from the start of the book when Laura and her mother were talking about books. I start to smile when the remainder of the plot is revealed since this book reminds me of Romeo and Juliet with its retelling of You've Got Mail. I like how the story evolved into something meaningful and unexpected. I've enjoyed several of this author's books, including this one.

When an author makes it plain in her writing what is fact and what is fiction, I enjoy the story even more. The author does that in her note to readers. The Buffalo Zoo itself serves as the setting for her story. It was fun to virtually visit those places in the book. It was interesting to find that the rivalry between the Bradshaw and Campbell families was based on a real family feud. As I read it, I found it impossible to put this endearing, compelling story down. I wondered about how Laura and Isaac's plan for learning about their family's dark secrets would work.

Reading this book is a wonderful way to unwind, as the author transports you back to 1924. Your book club will love it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

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.

The Letter Tree is a delightful young adult story about the different stages of a friendship. In this storyline, Laura and Issac were besties as very young children but were pulled apart as their families feuded. After her mother died, Laura was kept on a tight leash by her father. But she found an outlet for herself by writing letters to an unknown person delivered through a tree in a zoo.
The point in history is 1924: after WWI, the 1917 flu, and before the 1933 depression and WWII. This is a period of manufactory increase and growth. Both families prospered but were mostly driven by greed and competition of each other's business.
Both characters are young adults from families who require marriage to be based on alliances in business, money, and social standing while love is not considered to be the basis of a successful marriage or important.
Young adult readers and others will enjoy the unveiling of the mystery of the authors of the letters and the chase involved to find answers to the family feud. It is not surprising that denial of communication and miscommunication plays a pivotal role in the lives of the letter-writer friends.

I want to give this all the stars! I devoured it in one sitting and my entire day has been delightful. Rachel Fordham has carefully crafted the perfect mashup of You’ve Got Mail and Romeo and Juliet, and I am so satisfyingly happy.

Laura and Isaac are the perfect combination and watching their story unfold was captivating. But I have to brag on Mrs. Guskin and Mr. Shaffer—two of the most wonderful background characters I’ve had the pleasure of meeting!

And then there’s Big Frank, and Tybalt, and so many other characters you’ve just got to meet. This is one of the best stories I’ve read this year and I plan on reading it again.

My thanks to the publisher for an advance copy. My review is true and honest and unsolicited.

I loved it! The setting in the Roaring 20s, the slow build romance, the allusions to Romeo & Juliet, and the happy ending warmed my heart. There was a bit of mystery in there, too, but nothing violent. I highly recommend it!

I absolutely adored this book!

I loved it so much, I would say it is one of my favorites of the year - and I read a LOT of books!

The characters are likeable and really draw you into the story. I found myself running back to sneak in a few minutes of reading every chance I could get.

I will be purchasing a copy for my home library to reread over the years. HIGHLY recommend.

Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

“There are so many people in this city, and somehow, we manage to find someone who stands out from the crowd. Love is an odd thing.”

I absolutely adored this newest book from Rachel Fordham!

Somehow she managed to give us both enemies-to-more and friends-to-more in the same story. Add in some Romeo and Juliet vibes, ‘You’ve Got Mail’ vibes, forbidden love, a family feud, secret letters, mysterious unknowns, all set in the roaring twenties and you’ve got a recipe for a fantastic story with a sweet happily ever after.

The Campbells and the Bradshaws were once friends and business partners, but a rift tears the two families and their business apart.

When Laura Bradshaw loses her mother at the tender age of 14, she grieves through writing. Circumstances cause her to leave her letter in a tree in haste.

Isaac Campbell, heir to the Campbell shoe factory and sworn enemy of the Bradshaw family, happens to find Laura’s writings hidden in the tree.

Intrigued, he writes back and a secret friendship begins between the two young people. The ‘letter tree’ is their mailbox and while they never sign their names, they begin an unlikely friendship that will be tested.

This story was fantastic. I loved how the story unfolds and how the friendship between Isaac and Laura changes from expressing themselves through their writing to face-to-face.

There are some mysterious elements too and the full story unfolds bit by bit.

If you’ve seen the movie You’ve Got Mail, you are going to love The Letter Tree and the similarities it holds. I can’t leave this review without mentioning how much I loved the Mrs. Guskin. She was the sweetest housekeeper, friend, and motherly figure to Laura.

Many thanks to NetGalley for an arc. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to @netgalley and @ThomasNelson for this ARC. Laura Bradshaw can spend all day in the Buffalo Zoo. When she finds she is short on time, she stuffs the hollow tree with her poetry so she can get home before her father arrives. Isaac Campbell is looking for respite under a tree at the zoo and finds Laura's poetry. In turn, he leaves a note. This starts a decade long friendship through letters. Little does each know, they are children of rival shoes company owners. They aren't even allowed to speak each others names at home or public. Can their relationship look past all the hate? This was a really cute book with a mystery thrown in and reminded me a lot of "You've Got Mail". #TheLetterTree #RachelFordham #ThomasNelsonPub #Oct2023

The Letter Tree
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From Publisher Thomas Nelson:
Buffalo, NY, 1924
Laura Bradshaw adores stories with happily ever afters. But since her mother died seven years ago, the Bradshaw Shoe Company heiress has been as good as locked away in a tower. Her overbearing father cares little for her dreams, throwing himself instead into his tireless takedown of his competitor, the Campbell Shoe Company. However, Laura has been gifted with a reprieve: a mysterious friend with whom she’s been exchanging letters.
As heir to the Campbell Shoe Company, Isaac Campbell is a sought-after bachelor who has never felt an inkling of desire for the women who constantly bat their eyes at him. His thoughts are consumed by an oak tree in the Buffalo Zoo—or rather, the mystery woman he exchanges letters with courtesy of the tree. She’s been one of Isaac’s only joys in a life consumed by his father’s tireless hatred of Bradshaw. A hatred that, Isaac is coming to realize, may affect him more personally than he ever imagined.
When Laura’s father orchestrates a match between her and an important business owner, she resolves to pursue her only chance at freedom. But Isaac believes their story isn’t bound for a tragic ending. He’s certain there’s more to the Bradshaw-Campbell feud than meets the eye. And he won’t stop digging until he uncovers the truth that might bridge the divide between him and the woman whose words have captured his heart.
******************
My review:
Again, historical fiction is a big draw for me. I enjoy a glimpse into another time and this peek into the 1920's was fabulous. Laura is sheltered and almost ignored by her angry widowed father. She's pushed towards Abel, a businessman that her father wants in their orbit. Abel seems great...at first.
The back and forth between Isaac and Laura and and their shared need to find out the history of their families was intriguing. The mystery of the two families grabbed me and I had to know the source of the feud. I imagined many things and finally it all came together. Occasionally the story was overly simple but then again, maybe that was the time period as well. I rooted for Laura the entire novel.
And they all lived happily ever after...4.5 stars rounded up to 5!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers for an advance digital copy of the book.

What a beautifully written story that grabs your heart.

The Letter Tree is just a perfect book for anyone that loves animals, historical fiction, family dynamics mystery and/or romance. This book hooks you in the first few pages and it is hard to put down. The story is set after WWI during the roaring 20's. Reading about the clothing, dancing, drinking, and everything else is really interesting. This is during a time in America when the role of women is changing fast..

The idea of a letter tree is just so original. Letters that go back and forth between two people and mean so much to both of them. I love the setting of the tree in the zoo. They both spent time with the animals on the way to and from the letter tree.

This is my first Rachel Fordham book and it will not be my last. I enjoyed this book so so much.

What a wonderful love story! This is a Romeo and Juliet/You’ve Got Mail story set in 1924 Buffalo.

Rachel Fordham has woven a beautiful story of forbidden love between members of two feuding families. It starts with anonymous letters exchanged in a tree in the park and continues for seven years as they share their hopes and dreams and ultimately love blossoms.

I loved the process of finding out who the other actually was and it kept me turning pages to find out how they would resolve their families’ differences.

If you like:
the 1920s
Young love
Feuding families
Animals
Fairytales
A Mysterious Letter providing clues to unknown family situations
Pineapple upside down cake
…And more you will love this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was an outstanding read by Rachel Fordham, I couldn't put it down. Loved it! #netgalley #rachelfordham

The wealthy Bradshaw and Campbell families have been feuding for years, but no one knows exactly why. When Laura Bradshaw discovers who has been leaving her letters in a tree near the city zoo, will the mystery finally be solved? Find out in this intriguing work of historical fiction with a touch of mystery and romance set in the Prohibition years.

The Letter Tree
By Rachel Fordham
Oct. 31
Thomas Nelson
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
* historical fiction
I loved this book! It was an endearing book to read about two feuding families and how it affects all around them. I especially enjoyed the letters left in trees throughout the book over a period of 7 years.
Magical and Unique. Mrs Guskin was one of my favorite characters.
5 stars