Review: With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

They know everything about each other–except their real names.

Lt. Mellie Blake is looking forward to beginning her training as a flight nurse. She is not looking forward to writing a letter to a man she’s never met–even if it is anonymous and part of a morale-building program. Lt. Tom MacGilliver, an officer stationed in North Africa, welcomes the idea of an anonymous correspondence–he’s been trying to escape his infamous name for years.

As their letters crisscross the Atlantic, Tom and Mellie develop a unique friendship despite not knowing the other’s true identity. When both are transferred to Algeria, the two are poised to meet face-to-face for the first time. Will they overcome their fears and reveal who they are, or will their future be held hostage by their pasts?

Combining a flair for romance with excellent research and attention to detail, Sarah Sundin vividly brings to life the perilous challenges of WWII aviation, nursing–and true love. 

Many moons ago [or earlier this year], Sarah Sundin sent out a call for influencers. I was lucky enough to pick up a slot for this WWII novel. I find WWII fascinating but hadn’t read a book with a pilot and nurse for the protagonists.

I truly, truly enjoyed the book. I identified with Mellie on several levels and loved how their letters allowed them to be fully open with each other about everything but their names. And I loved how they finally discovered each other.

Sundin set up the time period and locations perfectly. I know enough about WWII to appreciate it.

The one thing that bugged me a bit was the end, when they finally meet as themselves. It wasn’t BAD, don’t think that, but I wasn’t crazy about it.

That said, it didn’t distract much from my overall enjoyment and I’m eagerly anticipating Sundin’s next release [yep, already on that list too ;)].

Overall Rating: 8.75 out of 10

Thanks to the publisher for a free influencer copy in exchange for my review.

2 comments

  • I loved With Every Letter. Sarah is a great storyteller and one of my must-read authors. I read her books for enjoyment but also for education. I study her characters, because she does such a great job developing them. Normally I can’t recall characters years after I read a book, but Sarah’s characters are some I can remember long after I’ve read her stories.

  • Carol – thank you for the thoughtful review! I’m glad you enjoyed meeting Tom and Mellie.