For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people’s mail. Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the Dead Letter Office. Still she dreams of something more–a bit of intrigue, a taste of romance, or at least a touch less loneliness. When a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love falls into her hands, Penny seizes this chance to do something heroic. It becomes her mission … mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.
Thomas left his former life with no intention of ending up in Azure Springs, Iowa. He certainly didn’t expect a happy ending after what he had done. All he wanted to do was run and never look back. In a moment of desperation, he began to write, never really expecting a reply.
When Penny’s undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter and yet she finds herself caring–perhaps too much–for the one who wrote it.
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Yours Truly, Thomas took a long time to get going. The nature of the story—the dead letter office—meant it had to start with Penny and Thomas in different places, and for there to be a reasonable period of time before they met. But I found the opening dragged as a result.
The story picked up pace and got a lot more interesting once Penny arrived in Azure Springs and met Thomas—and some of the other townspeople.
Penny—Penelope Ercanbeck—grew up in a privileged home, but now works in the dead letter office following her father’s death and the loss of his fortune. Thomas bought a farm in Azure Springs after becoming stranded in the small town. He writes letters to his beloved, Clara, describing his situation.
They aren’t delivered and end up in the dead letter office … where Penny reads them and becomes engaged in Thomas’s romance. Once the story got going, it was very good.
There was a mystery around Thomas and Clara’s relationship. We know something happened between them, and Penny tells him Clara died, although doesn’t say how. Also, I wasn’t entirely sure Clara was dead, and we don’t find out what happened until close to the end of the story. I don’t think it would have affected the overall story to know the truth of that earlier, and it would have meant the story ran more smoothly in the beginning. After all, this mystery wasn’t central to the plot. There was also a light suspense thread, as someone appears to be trying to sabotage Thomas’s farm.
I enjoyed watching Penny’s developing relationship with Thomas. I loved Penny’s rambunctious dog, Honeysuckle, and I enjoyed revisiting some of the characters from The Hope of Azure Springs. Yours Truly, Thomas does work as a standalone novel, and there is no need to read The Hope of Azure Springs first. (Although I still think The Hope of Azure Springs is a better novel).
Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
I loved this book. It combines a lot of the factors that I like old time pioneer type setting. You can read the synopsis on the basic reviews, but I liked the idea that this dead letter clerk felt led to make a happy ending to the letters she was reading. She went over and above her job to pursue the recipient of the letters.
I will not give away the whole storyline, but best book I’ve read in awhile. Clean read without being overly preachy.
I found this sweet story completely endearing! I adore the dead letter office storyline and revisiting Azure Springs was delightful. I really enjoyed the characters in this story! Penny and her love for romance, Thomas and his need for a new, fresh start, Margaret and her sweet meddling, Dinah and the fun friendship she and Penny share. I loved them all! Rachel Fordham has a wonderful ability to bring you into the story and make you want to stay forever! I wish I could visit Azure Springs and meet all the kindhearted townspeople! I cannot wait to see what Fordham brings us next!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
Rachel Fordham has done it again! As soon as I read her debut novel The Hope of Azure Springs, I was an instant fan, and have been anxiously waiting for the arrival of this one. Although it’s a standalone, it also takes place in Azure Springs, and so we are visited by some of our favorite (and not so favorite) characters from her debut.
I was quite excited to see the Margaret (who runs the boardinghouse), return for this novel. She’s like the town “aunt.” She’s caring and compassionate–but will also straighten you out and tell it like it is. She’s both tough as nails and a soft shoulder to cry on. You also can’t forget her witty sense of humor. She’s the perfect blend of what people need to get through the tough stuff in life. I hope if Rachel pens another novel in Azure Springs, that we will get to see more of Margaret. The world needs more Margarets.
It’s quite sad really how lost of an art letter writing has become. In today’s world we take for granted what it took 100 years ago for a person to be able to send a letter or communicate in any way with another loved one. Today we have cell phones, social media, TV and more that are able to connect us with loved ones even when they are across the globe. This novel takes place in 1883. People couldn’t just pick up a phone and call their mom or dad three states over. They couldn’t just jump in a car and drive to Grandma’s. In many ways letter writing was the only form of communication they had and so it was greatly cherished. Yet even with all of the technology we have today–doesn’t it still feel good to receive a letter in the mail? I honestly couldn’t tell you the last time I received a letter just because. However I do remember as a young child getting very excited when I would receive a letter in the mail from my Grandma when she was in Florida for the winter. I also remember sending and receiving letters from friends I’d made at summer camp over the years. There is something about letters that touches our hearts and makes us feel special–no matter what year it is.
Thomas and his letter-writing? Whew.. ladies! Men should read this book and take notes! Thomas was such a wonderful character and I can see why Penny found herself swooning over him. I appreciated that he wasn’t created as a perfect, flawless man–but a man with a past of his own and desire to learn from his mistakes. He’s a character you won’t quickly forget!
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend to historical fiction and romance fans. Once again I find myself impatiently waiting for the author’s next release.
*I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
I adore when a story brings to light a concept that I’ve never read about, or in this case, an entirely new thing to me. In this case, it’s the Dead Letter Office. Penny works as a clerk in this office and opens other people’s mail when there is nowhere left for them to be delivered. One frequent letter writer, Thomas, has captured her attention, which eventually leads her on a quest for closure for him.
Fordham’s second novel is a touch lighter than her debut; it is such a simple, enjoyable story in which characters have to deal with more internal matters than external threats (though there is a bit of that as well). This isn’t to say that everything was easy or not fraught with strife in some parts, but the plot progresses with such a graceful ease that big, shocking moments are not needed. Does it make sense when I say that some stories suffer because the author throws in one too many wrenches in to the plot? Fordham doesn’t do that one bit. The story is completely and effortlessly satisfying
Penny is perhaps a bit naïve of a character at first, but as the story progresses, some of her fancifulness gives way to a genuine hopefulness even in the face of disappointment. Thomas has already had his share of disappointment prior to the book’s start, so his journey is one of finding joy again and forgiving himself. Their meeting in the middle of these hard places is sweet and endearing. My favorite secondary characters are Honey the dog, who is always up to something, and Margaret, who owns the boardinghouse.
I love the setting of Azure Springs – it’s neat to see characters from the first book again, and it’s just such a charming place (with a few notable exceptions, of course). I wouldn’t mind if Fordham set another book or two there. That said, there is nothing that happens in the first book that has much to do with the events in this story, those characters just make a couple of cameos. I did enjoy having read the first book already because I feel like I knew the town and was back for another visit.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher; I was not required to post a positive review, and the opinions expressed here are my own.
I enjoyed going back to Azure Springs in Yours Truly, Thomas. The residents of the town are welcoming to newcomers. It is like visiting old friends. Penny Ercanbeck works in the Dead Letter Office where they try to get letters to their intended destinations. She is particularly taken with love letters and dreams of having a man write to her one day. When Thomas’s letters to Clara come across her desk, they touch her heart. She feels like she knows Thomas and wants to help him. Penny ends up traveling to Azure Springs where she takes up residence in Margaret Anders yellow boarding house. What follows is a sweet story that will touch your heart. I thought Yours Truly, Thomas was well-written, and it progressed at a gentle pace. I enjoyed the letters that were interspersed throughout. Lettering writing is a lost art today which is such a shame. I remember looking forward to getting correspondence when I was younger (pen pals). Penny’s dog, Honeysuckle (aka Honey) is a sweetie who provides comfort to Penny as well as a listening ear. Honey’s antics in Azure Springs had me chuckling (and happy my dogs do not like mud). Penny’s first encounter with Thomas as well as her second provided plenty of giggles. I always enjoy a book that brings out a variety of emotions as did Yours Truly, Thomas. I like how Thomas’s backstory was slowly revealed. As I got to know him, I understood why God led him to Azure Springs and why Penny was sent to aid him. Friendship, understanding, love, forgiveness, grief, family drama, heartache and humor in one thoughtful, heartfelt story called Yours Truly, Thomas.
Living hope from the Dead Letter Office
My rating is 4.5 stars
While this isn’t the first time I’ve heard of the Dead Letter Office, it is probably the first time I paid attention to what it would be like and what happens there. I loved learning about the people who are letter detectives, trying to figure out how to correctly redirect a misdirected letter or package.
And, oh, how I loved the characters!
Combining tender moments with light humor, spiritual growth, and elements of mystery and danger, Ms. Fordham has written a story I highly recommend for readers of Christian historical fiction.
Read my review of Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
First thing I love about this book – the theme of the forgotten art of writing letters, handwritten letters. There is such power in the written word and when someone takes the time to hand write a note or a letter it adds intimacy and shows such love. The beauty of the handwritten love letter is the recipient can keep that letter and reread those words of love again and again. What a treasure!
Secondly – I love the pure sweetness of this story. Penny is just so lovable – she longs for adventure and romance and is not willing to settle in life and yet is willing to self-sacrifice for those she loves. And Thomas’s story is so familiar and relatable- learning how to live with regrets and how to forgive yourself.
Third thing I love about this book – it made me laugh! Yes, it has tender sweet romance and danger and mystery and adventure, but it was also funny! I loved the dog – Honeysuckle, also known as Honey. Everybody needs a Honey in their life for companionship, loyalty, and comedic relief!!!
This book has all the”feels”. It will really warm your heart. And as you finish the last page and close the book, you’ll lean back with a sigh and a happy, contented smile.
I received this book for free. A favorable review was not required and all opinions are my own.
There is a lot to like about this story. The characters are engaging, the story premise is interesting, the setting is charming, and there’s a big dog in it. I love stories with dogs in them. However – you saw that coming, right? – it could have benefited from another round of editing. There are grammatical/punctuation errors, and if you just read over those, they won’t bother you, but there are more issues that should have been addressed. However – because every review should have two of these – it’s still an enjoyable story.
Oh my goodness! A must read!
We are privileged to take another trip to Azure Springs visiting some old friends from Fordham’s debut, The Hope of Azure Springs.
Yours Truly, Thomas is a sweet romance that pulls you in from the first page. Love is discovered to be “many things” according to Penny’s wise father. He continues to counsel her, “You don’t want to miss the love that’s perfect for you just because you’re too busy searching for a fairytale”.
And Thomas is just the hero I love to read about; humble, compassionate and sincere.
Excellent story telling!!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
From the dead letter office in Washington, D.C. to the plains of Azure Springs, Iowa, Rachel Fordham’s book Yours Truly, Thomas took me on a romantic adventure to remember. The settings are unusual and interesting, and I felt an urge to travel to Azure Springs and meet the people there. The main characters, Penny and Thomas, both have hurts and problems in their past to overcome, but they are engaging and well-drawn. The stellar cast of supporting characters adds flavor and color to the story. I especially liked Margaret with her managing, but loveable, ways.
Fordham’s writing is descriptive, clear, and concise, and her idea of letting the letters tell part of the story was brilliant. Themes of redemption, faith, and forgiveness of self and others run through the tale and give it depth and an added dimension. With adventure, romance, a bit of suspense, and a whole lot of heart, this book is one to savor and enjoy. 4 ½ stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
“You don’t want to miss the love that’s perfect for you just because you’re too busy searching for a fairy tale.”
I’m fascinated with letter writing because it’s a skill that’s sadly lacking in today’s world, what with the instant communication of text or video chat, or FaceTime or any number of other things people use talk to each other. I find the old fashioned way of reading someone’s words on a page, ones they took time out of their day to sit and write, much more meaningful. So “Yours Truly, Thomas” was already a hit in my mind. Not only did the cover draw me in, but the beautifully penned words Fordham used to create a story kept me embedded in the pages. I also never knew the dead letter office existed. I can’t imagine so many letters without a proper place to send them to were destroyed! And neither can Penny, it seems, as an imagined love story she thinks needs reconciling leads her on an adventure in Azure Springs, Iowa.
I loved the character growth of Thomas and Penny in this second installment of Rachel Fordham’s. That was the biggest complaint I had of “The Hope of Azure Springs” and I’m glad the author reconciled that in this one. To me, it’s the most important aspect of any story, seeing how the characters stretch and adapt to changes. Penny started out quite naïve about the world having grown up in a rich and well-to-do family. Circumstances eventually lead her to run far away from all she knows in pursuit of something better. Thomas wishes to outrun the man he had become and seek the solace of Azure Springs when his wagon broke down outside of town. Seeking solitude, he soon finds himself sinking in despair and haunted by his own poor choices. Only Margaret—the boarding house owner—sees something good in both of them. With her wisdom and practical advice, perhaps God had a hand through her in healing these two hearts and making them better people because of it. They definitely learned life-changing lessons and came out stronger for it.
The lack of a stronger faith message was disappointing. Calling things “fate” was a bit off-putting for me in a story labeled as Christian fiction. I absolutely believe God has a hand in orchestrating all things in our lives. I saw Penny & Thomas trying to solve things on their own quite a bit throughout the story and it really made me wince. I NEED to see struggling characters rely on the Lord when things get rough because it gives me hope in my own struggles! I am in no way perfect about doing this ALL the time myself, so I really want to see imperfect characters relying on a perfect God for everything. That is my only complaint with “Truly Yours, Thomas”. I’m sure my own personal taste and level of a faith thread is different than other readers, so don’t let my review sway you from reading this. I like to say, be your own judge of a book; what appeals to me may not appeal to you and vise versa!
I think it’s saying something on how good a book is when I sit down to read it and finish it that same day because I couldn’t put it down if I wanted to! “Truly Yours, Thomas” is an engaging & heartwarming accidental kind of love story where two people “meet” on a sheet of paper in the form of a letter, and it grows into something beautiful from there! I think you will fall in love right along with Thomas and Penny.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
We are back in Azure Springs, Iowa and have visits with former characters from The Hope of Azure Springs, and it is beginning to feel like home!
We first meet Penny when she is working in the Dead Letter Office, a different sounding job, and they are on the lookout for valuables to the delight of the Government, but she is drawn to a letter from a man she has yet to meet, Thomas.
Thomas is running from his past, but fate has placed him in Azure Springs, and he seems to like it here, but danger does lurk!
Now fate enters with bold moves by Penny, and these two are places together, and you will have to see if a relationship can take place between these two.
There are surprises here, and they keep unfolding right up to the end of this story, and you will be quickly immersed here. I for one would love to continue, and I thank the author for the epilogue!
I received this book through LibraryThing, and was not required to give a positive review.
Wow! I loved Rachel’s debut novel, The Hope of Azure Springs, and was blown away by this book! So much emotion and pain plagued Thomas and Penny. Penny works at the Dead Letter Office, where letters that can’t be delivered go and providence hands her Thomas’ love letter to Clara. Thomas is heading west trying to run from his past.
I love Penny’s stubborn drive to not let go, she finds herself at Azure Springs, determined to meet Thomas. Their meet cute was so fun! And every time they’re together, I just loved them more! From chasing adorable Honey, Penny’s fuzzball of a dog, to stealing pie. Their friendship felt real and authentic.
With the help of characters from the 1st novel, although this is a stand-alone, the two find themselves either pushed together, thanks Margaret! or solving a mystery. And Penny, the dreamer, loves stories and solving mysteries thanks to her time at the Dead Letter Office.
The pacing was perfect as well as the writing. I couldn’t put the book down and didn’t want it to end! I loved the edition of letters in the book and it made me remember that receiving a letter is a special gift! Especially nowadays when we can send digital letters, but it doesn’t have the same feel to it. The cover is gorgeous and draws the eye. I received a copy of this book from the publisher and these are my own thoughts but I know you’ll love it!
A story that will peak your interest and pull you in, leaving you breathless!
I loved Penny and her sweet character. Penny’s romantic heart and love for others pulled on my heart strings. Penny went through some pretty hard times but she cared more for a strangers hurt and despair. Rachel Fordham writes with feeling, taking her readers on a magical trip where love and friendship abounds. I found that I was holding my breath in anticipation to the events that were unfolding on the pages before me. A beautiful romance that kept me smiling along with the friendships forged along the way. A new author you want to keep your eyes on, her books are ranking high on reader’s list!
Was given a complimentary copy from Revell. All opinions are my own.
“Yours Truly, Thomas”, from author Rachel Fordham, is a compelling and touching inspirational historical romance. The story is given added depth by touches of adventure, mystery, loss and redemption, and unexpected hope. The years that Penny Ercanbeck has spent as a clerk in the Dead Letter Office of the Washington, DC Post Office have left her with a longing for something new and bright and exciting to enter her life. What she finds is a beautifully poignant letter from a man named Thomas, and she determines to make sure that the letter will reach the intended recipient. On a great impulse, she travels from DC to Azure Springs, Iowa. Her leap of faith leads her not to the addressee of the letter, but to the letter writer himself, Thomas Conner. When Fate brings Penny and Thomas together, their lives will be forever changed. Thomas must face the secrets and despair of his past, and Penny must learn that following your heart means following your faith and living with an open heart and open mind. Can the two of them resolve all issues and build and happy future together? To learn Thomas’ secrets and read his poignant letters. turn the pages of “Yours Truly, Thomas”. You will greatly enjoy this wonderfully-written story.
Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via LibraryThing
Fordham’s writing is reminiscent of classic Christian fiction writers, like Janette Oke, Jody Hedlund, and Mary Connealy. While maintaining a traditional style/voice, this story is set apart with it’s unique setting and plot. It starts in Washington D.C.’s dead letter office and travels westward to a little town called Azure Springs. With characters who are somewhat less than perfect and regrets hanging in their lives until the very end, Fordham keeps her writing true to life while leaving the reader with a clear message of redemption. Readers will swoon as they read Thomas’s love letters, and join Penny on a journey to search for something more. Filled with nuggets of wisdom and a tender regard for life, Yours Truly, Thomas unfolds a story similar to the epic tales that brought many to this genre from the very beginning.
Yours Truly, Thomas does share a cast of characters with Fordham’s debut novel (The Hope of Azue Springs); however, both are separate stories in their own right and can be read independently as the reader sees fit.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review and all opinions expressed here are my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this sweet romance. I especially loved reading the letters from Thomas and found myself cheering for Penny as the story progressed. This tender story of love, redemption and discovering God’s purpose for our lives.
Reminiscent of endearing love stories from Grace Livingstone Hill, this story is sure to wrap itself around your heart and bring a gentle smile to your face as the story unfolds in all its beauty.
With engaging characters, and a charming setting, this is a story you won’t want to miss. I highly recommend this fantastic, stand-alone story to anyone looking for a sweet romantic story to while away the hours.
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
In her sophomore novel the author captures your heart and you return to the town of Azure Springs. If you have ever watched the Signed, Sealed, Delivered Movies you will be absolutely thrilled with this book. This novel is like a ray of sunshine that brightens a dismal day and leaves you wanting more. Penny shows strength in stepping out on a mission that most women in 1883 would cower from. Following her heart is paramount. Add the unruly Honey and her doggy antics has you chuckling throughout. I enjoyed the historical aspect of learning about a dead letter office in Washington DC way back then. You will finish this novel feeling sated and anxious for more from this author. I recommend if you want to enjoy a novel that leaves you feeling good and uplifted. I won a copy from the author on Facebook. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Historical fiction fans will enjoy this trip to Azure Springs. This romantic tale, with stops and starts, is charming. One of my favorite things was the bits of unexpected humor when one of these unique characters or animals didn’t act as expected. Yet, I believe that was the whole point as acceptance could still be found. The letters and telegrams that are exchanged between different characters provide a good reminder of the power of the written word. During the excitement in town, the theme of forgiveness is weaved in, as well as, lessons about identity and finding one’s path and purpose in life. It certainly would be nice to read another book set in this interesting town. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.