Destiny Reads RomanceReviewed in the United States on January 22, 2025
I honestly don’t even know where to start because The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros was everything. This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions—every single emotion. I went from laughing to crying to feeling heartbroken, then back to laughing, and all the way to gut-wrenching sobs. It was intense, it was beautiful, and it was everything I never knew I needed in a story.
Told through the dual perspectives of Beckett Gentry, aka Chaos, and Ella McKenzie, this story is both beautiful and heartbreaking. Their connection begins through letters, as requested by Ella’s brother, Ryan. And trust me, their journey is one you will never forget.
Beckett is everything I want in a book boyfriend—he is perfect. After leaving the military following a devastating operation that took the life of his best friend, Ryan, and left Ella’s brother’s death lingering in the background, Beckett receives a letter from Ryan asking him to look after Ella and her family. The kicker? Beckett’s already fallen in love with Ella through their letters, though she has no idea who he really is. His journey to fulfill Ryan’s final request—without revealing his identity—was both sweet and heartbreaking in all the right ways.
Ella is a single mom of twins one boy and one girl and a business owner who’s been recently hit with the devastating news that her young daughter has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a form of cancer. In the midst of her grief, she takes comfort in writing to her brother’s best friend, Chaos. And when Beckett suddenly stops responding after the operation, she assumes the worst—he’s gone, too. The emotional weight of their journey is staggering.
I absolutely lost it reading Ryan’s final letter to Beckett. I sobbed uncontrollably—it was raw, it was beautiful, and it hit so deep. But those tears were quickly replaced with joy as I watched Beckett fight for Ella and her family. The way he stepped in and cared for them, the way he loved her kids—it was beyond moving. It was heartwarming.
But hold on tight because this book doesn’t let you off easy. As much as it’s filled with moments of joy, laughter, and heart, it will tear your heart out. The heartbreak is so real, I cried nonstop for over an hour. I could barely see the words through my tears, but I had to keep reading. The emotional intensity of this book will stay with you long after you finish.
The Last Letter is a book I will remember for years to come. The story development was on point, with unexpected twists that will leave you gasping. The character building was so well done, you’ll feel like you know Beckett and Ella personally. And while the spice was minimal, it wasn’t necessary with how powerful the emotional connection was. I loved every single moment of it.
I would 1000% recommend this book to anyone who loves a beautiful, emotional, and soul-stirring story. But just be aware—it touches on themes of child loss, so be prepared for some heavy moments. This book is worth every tear. If you’re looking for a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, this is it.
Spice Level: 🌶️
Tropes:
- Military
- Second Chance
- Single Mother
- Secret Identity
Carmen MetodievReviewed in the United States on January 17, 2025
This book was written so well that it kept me on the edge of my seat. Never did I imagined the twist and turns it was going to take. It’s a beautiful love story! The courage of the kids is something so special. Loved loved this book! Couldn’t put it down
Maryland readerReviewed in the United States on January 19, 2025
This book wasn't what I expected, and I have to say that it's a type of story I don't generally like. For me, it was too intense, crossing the line into melodrama. But I know that many readers will like it that way.
But regardless of my personal tastes, The Last Letter was astonishingly effective -- and I think that's because Rebecca Yarros is very skilled at writing a story in the first person. In this case, the story alternates between the first-person viewpoints of two characters, and this technique works really well because the author has put a lot of thought into the characters and how they would feel and react in different situations. Hearing the characters' voices really makes this book special.
CreedReadsReviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
Rebecca Yarros delivers a profoundly moving and unforgettable story in The Last Letter. As a first-time reader of her work, I was immediately struck by the power of her storytelling. From the very first page, Yarros masterfully draws readers into a tale that is as heartfelt as it is compelling, weaving a narrative that keeps you enthralled and emotionally invested.
The story’s emotional depth is unmatched, with its characters navigating life’s highs and lows in a way that feels deeply authentic. Just as you think you’ve settled into the rhythm of the plot, Yarros delivers a twist that is as devastating as it is brilliantly executed. The raw vulnerability of her characters in the face of heartbreak is gut-wrenching, yet amid all the sorrow, the beauty and resilience of the human spirit shine through.
Yarros’s writing is nothing short of extraordinary. Her ability to evoke such powerful emotions and create characters who feel like real people is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. Though The Last Letter will leave your heart aching, it is also a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of love and hope.
This is a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. A must-read for anyone who appreciates deeply emotional, beautifully written stories.
LafmoreReviewed in the United States on January 16, 2025
This book is one rollercoaster ride of emotions due to the remarkable characters who steal your heart. Each one is so rich, so genuine and infinitely lovable, even with their imperfections. This is a story of the tragic unfairness of life and the power of love to heal. It touches deep and is meaningful in its themes. Going in my favorites file.
Amazon CustomerReviewed in the United States on January 26, 2025
funny, sad, silly, heartwarming, encouraging, uplifting, sensual. This book has IT ALL. And yes you will need tissues. Hug your loved ones every chance you get
Rachel GuessReviewed in the United States on January 30, 2025
So part of me wants to give this book zero stars because it absolutely broke my heart. However, it was an amazing book. The writing draws you in, the story is amazing and gut wrenching. So I can hate it and love it at the same time.
AlahnaReviewed in the United States on January 25, 2025
This book was everything. The heartbreak, the love, lies, trust. It was written perfectly. If you’re looking for a heart wrenching book, this is the one. It caught me from the very first letter and I laughed and loved and cried until the very last.
Annie TasakaReviewed in Canada on December 20, 2024
4.5⭐️ This book gutted me, I ended up in a puddle of tears. It got me right from the start. By page 40 I had cried already. This book would have been 5 stars for me if it wasn’t for the ending that just felt like too much.
So just like I was, I am warning you, this is an emotional read and you should check your triggers before reading.
All that being said it was still a beautiful read. I love Ella and how she would do anything for her kids. I love Havoc, we don’t deserve dogs like her. Beckett, Maisie and Colt. All in my heart forever.
I have loved all of Rebecca’s writing but I am ready to get back to dragons.
Client d'AmazonReviewed in France on November 30, 2024
This novel will get your attention, make you feel real people, make you laugh, cry…a lot and then put you back together in a realistic way. Such a heartfelt story that I completely recommend!
Saida MohamedReviewed in Germany on September 22, 2024
Cried towards the end, I will never forget this book.
Tanita Dawn De BruynReviewed in the United Kingdom on July 25, 2024
If you are familiar with military service you know all about the 'The Last Letter'. A letter and a promise to his best friend leads an Army serviceman, Beckett, to a family and a chance at a love that he never thought he deserved.
Beckett Gentry is stunned when his Army buddy Ryan MacKenzie hands him a letter from Ryan’s sister, Ella. Having grown up in foster homes after being abandoned by his mother, Beckett is wary of attachments—until he reads Ella’s letter. Ella, a single mother, lives with her twins, Maisie and Colt, at Solitude, the resort she runs in Telluride, Colorado. Their correspondence begins, though Beckett can only identify himself by his call sign, Chaos.
After Ryan’s death during a mission, Beckett travels to Telluride at his friend's request, in his last letter. He bonds with the twins and falls deeply in love with Ella. Reluctant to reveal details of Ryan’s death and risk causing her pain, Beckett chooses not to disclose that he is Chaos. When Maisie needs treatment for neuroblastoma, Beckett formally adopts the twins to support Ella and her children. As Beckett and Ella’s romance blossoms, questions are raised about the adoption, forcing Beckett to confront the truth about the letters from Chaos (AKA himself) and Ryan’s death, risking the loss of the family he loves.
Beckett and Ella are sympathetic protagonists whose past experiences make them cautious about love. Beckett never knew the security of a stable home life, while Ella’s impulsive marriage to her high school boyfriend ended when he discovered she was pregnant. Their romance unfolds slowly with the letters they exchanged playing a pivotal role in their connection.
Rebecca’s writing is crisp and sharp, with poetic passages that avoid being extravagant. While the love story is the book’s focus, the subplot involving Maisie’s illness is equally well-developed, and the bond between Beckett and the twins is heartfelt and sincere. His relationship with Colt already had me from the beginning and I was not prepared to have my heart ripped from my chest with that storyline. I still can't think about it with crying.
I hope all the talk of tears and sadness doesn’t deter anyone from reading this story. There's an abundance of hope and laughter in The Last Letter, and while the sad parts are impactful and harsh, so is the happiness. I love that, no matter what challenges they face, neither Beckett nor Ella ever give up. Their shared experience of loss makes their determination even more heartening and reassuring.
I can believe why this book made such an impactful mark and it will forever hold a very special place in my heart. It's an absolutely fantastic read—a heartbreaking yet realistic portrayal of romance, military life, and the unexpected trials life throws at you. I can't imagine a world without this story. I loved every minute of it and I am off to as many of them as I can from Rebecca because apparently, I never learn.
AakanshaReviewed in India on August 11, 2023
With the world obsessing over The fourth wing, and no means of getting my hands on it, I decided to read another Rebecca Yarros book just to experience her writing.
The last letter is a beautiful military love story. I was hooked from the very first page. Beckett and Ella's story unfolds slowly. Their lives intertwining in the best way possible. There is just so much substance in this book. I cannot put into words the magic this book weaves. I only hope you experience what I did when you read this book, because it is truly one of the best books I have ever read.
It makes you smile, it makes you believe in second chances and true love, it breaks your heart into a million pieces
Destiny Reads RomanceReviewed in the United States on January 22, 2025
I honestly don’t even know where to start because The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros was everything. This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions—every single emotion. I went from laughing to crying to feeling heartbroken, then back to laughing, and all the way to gut-wrenching sobs. It was intense, it was beautiful, and it was everything I never knew I needed in a story. Told through the dual perspectives of Beckett Gentry, aka Chaos, and Ella McKenzie, this story is both beautiful and heartbreaking. Their connection begins through letters, as requested by Ella’s brother, Ryan. And trust me, their journey is one you will never forget. Beckett is everything I want in a book boyfriend—he is perfect. After leaving the military following a devastating operation that took the life of his best friend, Ryan, and left Ella’s brother’s death lingering in the background, Beckett receives a letter from Ryan asking him to look after Ella and her family. The kicker? Beckett’s already fallen in love with Ella through their letters, though she has no idea who he really is. His journey to fulfill Ryan’s final request—without revealing his identity—was both sweet and heartbreaking in all the right ways. Ella is a single mom of twins one boy and one girl and a business owner who’s been recently hit with the devastating news that her young daughter has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a form of cancer. In the midst of her grief, she takes comfort in writing to her brother’s best friend, Chaos. And when Beckett suddenly stops responding after the operation, she assumes the worst—he’s gone, too. The emotional weight of their journey is staggering. I absolutely lost it reading Ryan’s final letter to Beckett. I sobbed uncontrollably—it was raw, it was beautiful, and it hit so deep. But those tears were quickly replaced with joy as I watched Beckett fight for Ella and her family. The way he stepped in and cared for them, the way he loved her kids—it was beyond moving. It was heartwarming. But hold on tight because this book doesn’t let you off easy. As much as it’s filled with moments of joy, laughter, and heart, it will tear your heart out. The heartbreak is so real, I cried nonstop for over an hour. I could barely see the words through my tears, but I had to keep reading. The emotional intensity of this book will stay with you long after you finish. The Last Letter is a book I will remember for years to come. The story development was on point, with unexpected twists that will leave you gasping. The character building was so well done, you’ll feel like you know Beckett and Ella personally. And while the spice was minimal, it wasn’t necessary with how powerful the emotional connection was. I loved every single moment of it. I would 1000% recommend this book to anyone who loves a beautiful, emotional, and soul-stirring story. But just be aware—it touches on themes of child loss, so be prepared for some heavy moments. This book is worth every tear. If you’re looking for a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, this is it. Spice Level: 🌶️ Tropes: - Military - Second Chance - Single Mother - Secret Identity
Carmen MetodievReviewed in the United States on January 17, 2025
This book was written so well that it kept me on the edge of my seat. Never did I imagined the twist and turns it was going to take. It’s a beautiful love story! The courage of the kids is something so special. Loved loved this book! Couldn’t put it down
Maryland readerReviewed in the United States on January 19, 2025
This book wasn't what I expected, and I have to say that it's a type of story I don't generally like. For me, it was too intense, crossing the line into melodrama. But I know that many readers will like it that way. But regardless of my personal tastes, The Last Letter was astonishingly effective -- and I think that's because Rebecca Yarros is very skilled at writing a story in the first person. In this case, the story alternates between the first-person viewpoints of two characters, and this technique works really well because the author has put a lot of thought into the characters and how they would feel and react in different situations. Hearing the characters' voices really makes this book special.
CreedReadsReviewed in the United States on December 21, 2024
Rebecca Yarros delivers a profoundly moving and unforgettable story in The Last Letter. As a first-time reader of her work, I was immediately struck by the power of her storytelling. From the very first page, Yarros masterfully draws readers into a tale that is as heartfelt as it is compelling, weaving a narrative that keeps you enthralled and emotionally invested. The story’s emotional depth is unmatched, with its characters navigating life’s highs and lows in a way that feels deeply authentic. Just as you think you’ve settled into the rhythm of the plot, Yarros delivers a twist that is as devastating as it is brilliantly executed. The raw vulnerability of her characters in the face of heartbreak is gut-wrenching, yet amid all the sorrow, the beauty and resilience of the human spirit shine through. Yarros’s writing is nothing short of extraordinary. Her ability to evoke such powerful emotions and create characters who feel like real people is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. Though The Last Letter will leave your heart aching, it is also a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of love and hope. This is a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. A must-read for anyone who appreciates deeply emotional, beautifully written stories.
LafmoreReviewed in the United States on January 16, 2025
This book is one rollercoaster ride of emotions due to the remarkable characters who steal your heart. Each one is so rich, so genuine and infinitely lovable, even with their imperfections. This is a story of the tragic unfairness of life and the power of love to heal. It touches deep and is meaningful in its themes. Going in my favorites file.
Amazon CustomerReviewed in the United States on January 26, 2025
funny, sad, silly, heartwarming, encouraging, uplifting, sensual. This book has IT ALL. And yes you will need tissues. Hug your loved ones every chance you get
Rachel GuessReviewed in the United States on January 30, 2025
So part of me wants to give this book zero stars because it absolutely broke my heart. However, it was an amazing book. The writing draws you in, the story is amazing and gut wrenching. So I can hate it and love it at the same time.
AlahnaReviewed in the United States on January 25, 2025
This book was everything. The heartbreak, the love, lies, trust. It was written perfectly. If you’re looking for a heart wrenching book, this is the one. It caught me from the very first letter and I laughed and loved and cried until the very last.
Annie TasakaReviewed in Canada on December 20, 2024
4.5⭐️ This book gutted me, I ended up in a puddle of tears. It got me right from the start. By page 40 I had cried already. This book would have been 5 stars for me if it wasn’t for the ending that just felt like too much. So just like I was, I am warning you, this is an emotional read and you should check your triggers before reading. All that being said it was still a beautiful read. I love Ella and how she would do anything for her kids. I love Havoc, we don’t deserve dogs like her. Beckett, Maisie and Colt. All in my heart forever. I have loved all of Rebecca’s writing but I am ready to get back to dragons.
Client d'AmazonReviewed in France on November 30, 2024
This novel will get your attention, make you feel real people, make you laugh, cry…a lot and then put you back together in a realistic way. Such a heartfelt story that I completely recommend!
Saida MohamedReviewed in Germany on September 22, 2024
Cried towards the end, I will never forget this book.
Tanita Dawn De BruynReviewed in the United Kingdom on July 25, 2024
If you are familiar with military service you know all about the 'The Last Letter'. A letter and a promise to his best friend leads an Army serviceman, Beckett, to a family and a chance at a love that he never thought he deserved. Beckett Gentry is stunned when his Army buddy Ryan MacKenzie hands him a letter from Ryan’s sister, Ella. Having grown up in foster homes after being abandoned by his mother, Beckett is wary of attachments—until he reads Ella’s letter. Ella, a single mother, lives with her twins, Maisie and Colt, at Solitude, the resort she runs in Telluride, Colorado. Their correspondence begins, though Beckett can only identify himself by his call sign, Chaos. After Ryan’s death during a mission, Beckett travels to Telluride at his friend's request, in his last letter. He bonds with the twins and falls deeply in love with Ella. Reluctant to reveal details of Ryan’s death and risk causing her pain, Beckett chooses not to disclose that he is Chaos. When Maisie needs treatment for neuroblastoma, Beckett formally adopts the twins to support Ella and her children. As Beckett and Ella’s romance blossoms, questions are raised about the adoption, forcing Beckett to confront the truth about the letters from Chaos (AKA himself) and Ryan’s death, risking the loss of the family he loves. Beckett and Ella are sympathetic protagonists whose past experiences make them cautious about love. Beckett never knew the security of a stable home life, while Ella’s impulsive marriage to her high school boyfriend ended when he discovered she was pregnant. Their romance unfolds slowly with the letters they exchanged playing a pivotal role in their connection. Rebecca’s writing is crisp and sharp, with poetic passages that avoid being extravagant. While the love story is the book’s focus, the subplot involving Maisie’s illness is equally well-developed, and the bond between Beckett and the twins is heartfelt and sincere. His relationship with Colt already had me from the beginning and I was not prepared to have my heart ripped from my chest with that storyline. I still can't think about it with crying. I hope all the talk of tears and sadness doesn’t deter anyone from reading this story. There's an abundance of hope and laughter in The Last Letter, and while the sad parts are impactful and harsh, so is the happiness. I love that, no matter what challenges they face, neither Beckett nor Ella ever give up. Their shared experience of loss makes their determination even more heartening and reassuring. I can believe why this book made such an impactful mark and it will forever hold a very special place in my heart. It's an absolutely fantastic read—a heartbreaking yet realistic portrayal of romance, military life, and the unexpected trials life throws at you. I can't imagine a world without this story. I loved every minute of it and I am off to as many of them as I can from Rebecca because apparently, I never learn.
AakanshaReviewed in India on August 11, 2023
With the world obsessing over The fourth wing, and no means of getting my hands on it, I decided to read another Rebecca Yarros book just to experience her writing. The last letter is a beautiful military love story. I was hooked from the very first page. Beckett and Ella's story unfolds slowly. Their lives intertwining in the best way possible. There is just so much substance in this book. I cannot put into words the magic this book weaves. I only hope you experience what I did when you read this book, because it is truly one of the best books I have ever read. It makes you smile, it makes you believe in second chances and true love, it breaks your heart into a million pieces