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Very Sincerely Yours

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A charming and heartwarming new romantic comedy by the author of Waiting for Tom Hanks, Kerry Winfrey.

Teddy Phillips never thought she'd still be spending every day surrounded by toys at almost thirty years old. But working at a vintage toy store is pretty much all she has going on in her life after being unceremoniously dumped by her longtime boyfriend. The one joy that she's kept is her not-so-guilty pleasure: Everett's Place, a local children's show hosted by Everett St. James, a man whom Teddy finds very soothing . . . and, okay, cute.

Teddy finds the courage to write to him, feeling slightly like one of the children who write to him on his show. He always gives sound advice and seems like he has everything figured out--and he pretty much does: Everett has a great support system, wonderful friends, and his dream job. But there's still that persistent feeling in the back of his mind that something's missing.

When a woman named Theodora starts writing to Everett, he is drawn to her honesty and vulnerability. They continue writing to each other, all the while living their lives without meeting. When their worlds collide, however, they must both let go of their fears and figure out what they truly want--and if the future they want includes each other.

384 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 2021

227 people are currently reading
19201 people want to read

About the author

Kerry Winfrey

7 books1,889 followers
Kerry Winfrey is the author of the adult romantic comedies WAITING FOR TOM HANKS, NOT LIKE THE MOVIES, VERY SINCERELY YOURS, and JUST ANOTHER LOVE SONG, as well as the teen romantic comedies LOVE AND OTHER ALIEN EXPERIENCES and THINGS JOLIE NEEDS TO DO BEFORE SHE BITES IT. She lives in Columbus, Ohio with her family. You can find her on Instagram @kerrywinfrey.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,719 reviews
Profile Image for Nilufer Ozmekik.
3,115 reviews60.6k followers
December 18, 2021
As a forever April Fool ( thanks to my dear prankster father who has made his biggest joke to my mother 4 decades ago! ) I’m still celebrating my birthday, sipping more booze and doing my best to gather appropriate words to write a readable review! 🥳🥂🎈

Here we go: this is so cute, sweet romcom and a mash up of You got mail meets A beautiful day in the neighborhood !

Teddy Philips spends her time literally in a toyland! ( the author’s Tom Hanks addiction works so well by put her heroine in a universe of Toy story meets You got mail)

She’s thirty, working in a vintage toy store, nursing her wounds after terrible breakup! There are two guilty pleasures she has: devouring Taco Bell products and listening to Everett’s Place: a local children’s show!

Don’t worry she doesn’t have issues about aging! She’s addicted to that show because of the charming host Everett St. James! And finally she gathers her courage to write him a letter and guess what? He writes her back! They turn into pen pals sharing their honest feelings, their lives, hopes, expectations. Actually I loved their letters more than their face to face interactions!

This was sweet, heartfelt, quick read for me! Only thing bothered me was Teddy’s self insecurities! The things her douchebag ex did to her and she didn’t stand up for herself and she just accepted them which made me pissed off. But I really relieved to see character’s evolving , gaining her strength by finding her own inner power, fighting against her fears!

The supporting characters are also likable! (Especially Everett’s family earned my hugs!)
The chemistry between the characters were good enough! It was solid feel-good reading!

I’m giving 3.5 stars rounding up to 4 lovely set in Ohio, sweet-swoon-soft stars!

Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Profile Image for emma.
2,562 reviews91.9k followers
September 30, 2021
Me when the couple in a romance novel meets: ☺️

Me when the couple in a romance novel is doing their will they/won't they: 😍

Me when the couple in a romance novel has their conflict/drama/miscommunication: 🤩

Me when the couple in a romance novel is happy: 😴

Me when couple in a romance novel is happy insTEAD OF DOING A WILL THEY WON'T THEY: 😡

This has been: emma reviewing a book, emoji edition.

I really liked this at the beginning. Fun writing style, check. Promising main characters, check check. Nice room for character development for both of them, TRIPLE CHECK. But romance the way I want it to go...no check at all. (Also, pretend I'm using emoji checks for the sake of continuity. I'm too lazy to actually do it, but still.)

Bottom line: The only person who got their heart broken satisfactorily here was ME.

And that's not very satisfying at all.

---------------
pre-review

the thing about a 384 page book is that even if it starts off fantastic, it has a looooot of room to disappoint.

review to come / 2.5?

---------------
tbr review

i literally only know one way to get out of a reading slump and it's binge reading romance and hoping for the best
Profile Image for Kerry.
Author 7 books1,889 followers
February 18, 2021
This one's for anyone who doesn't know what they want to be when they grow up, even if they're already grown up. It's also for anyone who thinks Jim Henson is hot, or anyone who grew up watching The Muppet Show, or anyone who is afraid of basically everything. I wrote it during the pandemic so there are a LOT of real Columbus locations (I was living vicariously through my characters). Also a lot of Taco Bell. Like, a LOT of Taco Bell. And yeah, once again, I am giving my own book five stars!!!
Profile Image for Darla.
4,820 reviews1,225 followers
November 8, 2022
This truly is such a lovely mashup of 'You've Got Mail' and the Mr. Rogers show. The answers Everett gives to the emails his little viewers send will warm your heart. And the emails that Everett and Teddy send to each other will make you laugh and cry. The book is filled to the brim with quirky and lovable supporting characters (with the exception of Rick the D---). My favorite has to be Everett's precocious little sister Gretel. She is a hoot! If you loved Waiting for Tom Hanks, then you will want to try this one.

This book features a romance that begins via email. If you enjoy the epistolary format, try Authentically Izzy by Pepper D. Basham.
Profile Image for Larry H.
3,069 reviews29.6k followers
June 27, 2021
4.5 stars, rounded up.

The upcoming rom-com from Kerry Winfrey, Very Sincerely Yours , was just absolutely adorable.

When Teddy’s boyfriend ends their five-year relationship and asks her to move out of their home, it completely throws her for a loop. Sure, she’s spent most of her time doing whatever he wanted and trying to please him, but that’s what people in a relationship do, right?

She quickly finds out no one liked her controlling ex-boyfriend, but now she’s at a dead end of sorts. She enjoys her job working in a vintage toy store, but is that a real career? What does she actually want from life? What is her “thing”?

One thing she does enjoy is watching episodes of a local children’s television show, more because she finds the host, Everett, to be handsome and he seems to have all the answers. (She’s not the only adult female enamored of Everett—there are message boards of suburban moms talking lustfully about him.)

She decides to write Everett and ask for advice. It’s rare that he receives a letter from an adult that isn’t sexual in nature, so he’s excited. The two begin corresponding and it becomes a highlight for both of them, so they decide to take the next step and meet.

As Teddy searches for purpose, Everett is at a crossroads with his career and life, too. He's always known what he wanted to do, and he has an opportunity to expand the show. But has he sacrificed everything else in his life for the sake of his career?

Can two people unsure of what they want from life and their futures find a secure footing for happiness?

I really loved this. I’m a huge fan of Kerry Winfrey’s—she creates such unique characters who could be annoying in other people’s hands, but she makes their quirks endearing. Teddy and Everett's relationship and the story follows the path you might expect, but their flaws make everything a little more interesting.

b>Very Sincerely Yours was the perfect book to put a smile on my face and a tear (or two) in my eye!

NetGalley and Berkely provided me with a complimentary advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making it available!!

The book releases 6/15.

Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.

See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.

Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Profile Image for Helen Power.
Author 10 books629 followers
May 1, 2021

Teddy is an interesting heroine in the sense that she is not at all interesting. She changed her entire personality for her boyfriend, and now that he’s broken up with her, she has to figure out who she is and what she wants to do with the rest of her life. The novel follows Teddy as she gradually becomes the woman she's meant to be. Her best friends Kirsten and Eleanor take her in and help her on this journey. They insist that she does one thing a day that terrifies her. This is to get her out of her shell and hopefully shed the fears that keep her from truly living her life. Of course, one of the things she does that scares her is write to a certain handsome host of a children’s TV show.

Everett St. James is an incredibly sweet character.  He's good-looking, thoughtful, funny, smart, and he’s always known what he wanted to do with his life. But he isn't quite perfect. His friends and family are constantly telling him that he spends too much of his life engrossed in his work. There’s more to life than puppets, Everett. 

I loved how Everett and Teddy complemented each other in their personal character arcs. Teddy is just now trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. Everett has known his career trajectory since he was a child, but he’s being forced to take a step back and reassess what truly matters.  

This is a delightful book that can be enjoyed on both a superficial and a deeper level.  There is a “readers guide” at the end of the book that provides discussion prompts. I can definitely see this book being a fun and inspirational read--perfect for a book club to discuss over wine and bagel bites.

The interactions between side characters and the protagonists are also extremely well developed. Teddy’s best friends are hilarious and witty. They have a dynamic and clever banter that seems to leap off the pages. Despite this book not being characterized as a "rom com", it had me in stitches laughing on more than one occasion.

This book is chock full of pop culture references. They added another element to the reading experience that I personally loved so, so much. Winfrey casually mentions the millions of Old Navy emails that you get if you’re a subscriber (I died laughing--so true!), the joys of the McDonald's quarter pounder (LOVE them), and Bath and Body Works’ pumpkin pecan waffle scented candle (which I just so happen to have lit on my shelf as I write this review). While these references might end up eventually dating this book, I appreciated them so much and they helped me to dive even deeper into this realistic world that Winfrey has created.

One thing that did bother me a bit about the book was just how long it took Teddy and Everett to start writing to each other. As is expected with pen pal romances, they don’t meet right away, and I was relieved that the author didn’t use the pen pal ruse (my FAVOURITE trope) for only a few chapters. However, I was surprised by just how much of the book took place before Teddy finally put pen to paper (figuratively speaking--she sent an email!). That’s generally a “no no” in romance books. While I did find the early parts of the book slow paced primarily for this reason, the book eventually picks up speed.  I couldn’t put the book down once I got into the meat of the story.


I recommend this whimsical and light book to those who want a humorous pen pal romance with substance.

*Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ebook to review*

This review appeared first on https://powerlibrarian.wordpress.com/
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Profile Image for Susanne.
1,206 reviews39.3k followers
June 22, 2021
Review posted on blog: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...

Call me a Dissenter.

Truth be told, I went into this book with the HIGHEST of hopes. I adored “Waiting for Tom Hanks” and liked “Not Like the Moves” the predecessors to “Very Sincerely Yours” by Kerry Winfrey and thought this premise sounded totes adorbs.

Unfortunately, the delivery simply didn’t hold a candle to the premise.

Everett is the host of a popular children’s tv show and appears to have everything: a career, friends, and an incredible family, but he can’t help but feel like something is missing.

Teddy works in a toy store at almost thirty years old. As of yet, she has not found her life’s passion. What she loves, however, is taking care of her boyfriend Richard. When he dumps her, she is beside herself. Her only solace is watching a local children’s tv show hosted by Everett, who is kind, caring, and extremely good-looking.

When Teddy’s boyfriend dumps her, and she can’t figure out what to do with her life, she writes into Everett’s show. The rest is history.

I know, I know, it sounds, “totes adorbs” right? And so many parts of it were, and yet it left me shaking my head. The reason, in a nutshell? Teddy’s character. At thirty years old she was extremely immature, having no direction or sense of self. Teddy acted even younger than Everett’s twelve-year-old sister! Strong female characters are what I look for when it comes to novels, be it fiction, rom-com, or any other genres and sadly, this book missed the mark.

While I didn’t love the character of Teddy, the writing here is entertaining and admittedly, I tore through the novel quickly, eager to get to the sweet, albeit predictable end. Though this wasn’t my favorite of Ms. Winfrey’s novels, I can’t wait for her next release.

A buddy read with Kaceey.

Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley for the arc.

Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
Profile Image for Norma ~ The Sisters.
740 reviews14.4k followers
May 21, 2025
Playful charm, nostalgic sweetness, and heart-melting romance!

Very Sincerely Yours by Kerry Winfrey is a heartwarming, easy-breezy, feel-good romantic comedy that had me smiling from beginning to end. This was such a comforting and charming escape, and I found myself completely wrapped up in Teddy and Everett’s adorable, slow-burn journey.

Very Sincerely Yours has such a unique and utterly sweet premise! I have a real soft spot for stories that involve heartfelt letter-writing—especially when the messages are anonymous and just brimming with vulnerability. As someone who has always found it easier to express thoughts and feelings through writing rather than speaking, this resonated deeply with me. Add in a vintage toy store setting? That sealed the deal. I adore vintage toys, so Teddy’s world felt like pure joy to step into.

Teddy, still reeling from a breakup and feeling stuck, finds comfort in writing to Everett St. James, the wholesome (and totally crush-worthy) host of a local children’s show. What begins as a private, one-sided connection becomes a tender back-and-forth that’s equal parts soothing, sincere, and swoon-worthy.

I wouldn’t say this story breaks new ground in the rom-com world, but honestly, that’s part of the appeal. It’s classic in the best way. The characters are wonderfully awkward, endearing, and real. I might have done a little happy sighing, a bit of shoulder-shrugging grinning, and even a few gentle gasps during their “will-they-finally-meet” moments. My heart was all in.

This was a solo read, but I couldn’t help imagining how much fun it would be to read alongside a fellow rom-com lover and gush about Everett’s letters. Kerry Winfrey brings such an easy, heartfelt tone to her writing—you feel like you’re right there in the moment, rooting for love to find its way.

Norma’s Stats:
Cover: Absolutely adorable. A cheerful, whimsical design that instantly gives off vintage charm and flirty fun. So fitting for the story.
Title: Completely charming and perfectly matched to the letter-writing premise. Loved it.
Writing/Prose: Light, warm, witty, and wonderfully paced. Easy to devour and so immersive.
Plot: Sweet, hopeful, romantic, nostalgic, and totally heart-squeezing in the best way.
Ending: Perfectly satisfying. I was grinning like a fool. Everything wrapped up just right with lots of heart.
Overall: 4.5 ⭐️ Would absolutely recommend if you’re in the mood for a gentle, low-drama romance full of kindness and charm. A cosy and heartfelt read, perfect for curling up with as the leaves begin to fall—or, as in my case, for reading in the soft bloom of spring when maybe you’re craving a little early autumn comfort.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy. I also purchased a physical copy for my shelves, so I’m extra happy to have knocked another one off my NetGalley shelf!
Profile Image for The Lit Homebody.
121 reviews4,787 followers
November 12, 2024
5 ⭐

“Sometimes it helps to think back to what made us happy when we were young, before we met people who told us our dreams were silly or unrealistic. What lit up your heart when you were a kid? Maybe that's your thing.”

• It made me feel delighted, uplifted, and grateful for a world where there are Octobers
Filled with the best friends a girl could ask for, a charming kids TV show host a la Jim Henson, email correspondence that will heal you, late-night Taco Bell trips, crunching leaves, a younger sister who's going 13 on 30, a love story made for autumns
• It made me want to giggle and kick my feet nonstop, watch old episodes of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, plan a movie night sleepover to watch You've Got Mail, put on a chunky knit sweater, eat a pint of ice cream, teepee my enemies' houses
• Search "Fall Coffee Shop Cozy Ambience" on YouTube for the perfectly paired reading vibe
Listen to Beautiful Ones by Prince, or Christmas Wrapping by The Waitresses after finishing the last page (IYKYK)
• If this book was a food/drink, it would be a Crunch Wrap Supreme

Good for book club - YES, especially if your book club loves romance!
Good as a gift - a resounding YES (closed-door romance, so very safe to gift)
Should I get the physical copy - once again, YES
What season should I read it in - this book was made to be read in the 'ber months
Audiobook narration - N/A, I read on Kindle
Profile Image for Caitlin Da Silva.
39 reviews2,631 followers
April 29, 2021
This was a cute, light read! Really liked the “You’ve Got Mail” vibes….Teddy and Everett each had their own personal obstacles to overcome, and their journeys were a comforting reminder on how no one has it all figured out (and that there’s no deadline for figuring it all out— phew lol)!

Profile Image for Elisabeth Plimpton.
202 reviews249 followers
December 10, 2021
3.5 stars

A very cute and enjoyable rom com read!

Teddy works at a vintage toy store. Having yet to discover her true passion or direction in life, she clung on to her boyfriend’s career and worked to make his life easier by doing everything for him. Teddy thinks he is going to propose to her, but instead he dumps her. She is surprised and her life turns upside down. Teddy is forced to evaluate her choices and now has the chance to try new things and face her fears. With the help of her friends, Teddy learns to stand up for herself, say no, and do things just for fun.

Everett hosts a children’s puppet TV show. Teddy has always been a fan of his show and decides to email him about the turns of events in her life. They begin to bond over written word, and after coincidentally meeting a couple of times, they start form a relationship. With some conflict about what each person wants in their life, they must choose what’s most important to them.

The characters were all charming and added a unique perspective on helping Teddy grow. They were each developed pretty well. I felt I could relate to the Teddy and her experiences and revelations. She gained confidence and learned that doing things that scare you actually makes you feel more in control of your life. Teddy realizes that she can accept the love she deserves, while also prioritizing her own individual journey.

The ending was predictable and somewhat cheesy, but cute nonetheless. Overall, this was a fun audiobook to listen to that had some great life messages about relationships and finding your passion.
Profile Image for Maisha  Farzana .
679 reviews448 followers
October 22, 2021
~I'm regretting my decision.~

This book was way too cheesy and corny for my liking. The characters were very bland, the humour was very bad (couldn't make me laugh even a single time) and the romance was the worst part of or. Everything was bad about this book. Can't think of anything I enjoyed. Bad bad bad.

Dude, I need to stop adding books to my ever growing tbr just because of their amazing covers. I do that a lot. I know it's pathetic and you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. I know all of these. And I'm picky and conscious choosing books to read except for romance. Recently I have been reading romances a lot. They are usually fast to read and mode lifting. So, I'm usually don't think much while picking them up. Sometimes I choose a book at random; that is when books with gorgeous covers win. I am kind of ashamed to say that I read this just because I loved its cover. I thought, what's the harm? It's just a rom com. Of course, you can tell that I terribly regret my decision.
Profile Image for Keisha | A Book Like You.
497 reviews560 followers
December 14, 2024
“Sometimes it helps to think back to what made us happy when we were young, before we met people who told us our dreams were silly or unrealistic. What lit up your heart when you were a kid? Maybe that’s your thing.” ❤️

Holy cow, can I give this book 6 stars?! 🤩 If you could see me through the screen right now, I would be SQUEALING at you to read this book! Nothing could have prepared me for the ride I went on here.

I have read and loved two other books by Kerry Winfrey, but y’all this might have taken the cake. 🎂 This is such a uniquely niche story, but I was sold from the get go... even in light of the oxidation art. Still wondering about that inclusion? 😅 But, this was just it for me! 👏

Very Sincerely Yours is a love story heavily inspired by You’ve Got Mail. (And I could 100% see this as a Nora Ephron film!) You have our main character, Teddy Phillips, who is currently approaching 30 years-old, works at a vintage toy store, and is seriously wondering what she is even doing with her life. Then, we have sweet Everett St. James who is a local children’s tv show host (fully equipped with charm and puppets...so he’s basically Mr. Rogers)! Did I mention that Teddy’s guilty pleasure and comfort is watching his show? (squeal) Or that she decides to email him and they start a correspondence? (DOUBLE SQUEAL) 🤭🤭

I seriously could write an entire book ABOUT this book. I’m not even kidding. It’s an onion. There are so many layers! Yes, it’s a cheesy love story. But, it’s also about the best friendships, found family, finding your passions, being yourself, and so so much more.

There’s 80s-90s pop culture references 🎈, karaoke 🎤, a Halloween party 🎃, themed pj movie nights 🍿, hilarious family dinners 🍴, swoony kisses 🥰, adorable emails 💌, the absolute sweetest 12-year-old 👧, and the perfect grandma of a toy store owner 🚂. I can almost guarantee you will gush over this book, laugh out loud, and maybe even shed a few tears. 🥹💕

If you’re looking for a closed door, sweet and quirky romance that goes deep with the life lessons, PLEASE pick up this book. 💛💛💛
Profile Image for Leslie at SheReadsRomanceBooks.com.
727 reviews143 followers
June 20, 2021
I probably should have stopped reading this after the second chapter when I realized I really didn't care for Teddy. Why? Because I really dislike romance book heroines who are complete doormats. She wasn't just a doormat but she also repeatedly justified and defended her behavior and she honestly didn't change/grow much in my opinion by the end of the story.

I was intrigued by the Mr. Rogers meets You've Got Mail kind of story but it was slow, too idealistic for my tastes and very redundant. It was just back and forth discourse about Teddy not having any purpose and Everett waxing on about how he’s always loved puppetry but is too focused on work. It was the same discussion over and over and got quite boring.

I love the idea of falling for someone via email but even their email exchanges were brief without laying a firm enough foundation for me to buy into their "love." Plus, in Everett's second email to a complete stranger he shares something very personal (that no one else knows) and there's just no way someone semi-famous would ever do that in this day and age. I just couldn't buy it.

Again, the story had such potential from the synopsis but I was disappointed. Winfrey is a skilled writer but this should have gone in my DNF pile as it didn't get better for me.
Profile Image for Sabi.
1,257 reviews359 followers
August 22, 2022
I don't know if characters like these exist in real life. Too nice or too villain-y. 2.5 stars



Things I liked:

🧡 Adored those friendship moments between the girl group: I love them to see those and this trio was really nice!

🧡 The ending of the female lead: Her choice towards her career was nicely written. Not everyone knows what they want and can take their time and that's what she does.

Things I wasn't impressed with:

The personality of either main leads: The female lead, Teddy, was too under-confident. I know that's her and everybody is different but I would've liked to see her grow more throughout the novel. And Everett, the male lead; he was sweet but nothing more.

Not enough humourous situations: They are a staple in a romcom and I didn't find them much in there.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,871 reviews6,703 followers
June 19, 2021
Very Sincerely Yours is a standalone rom-com written by Kerry Winfrey. It’s the ultimate pen pal romance between a woman who lives in the shadows and a man in the spotlight. I found this storyline to be quite unique and I appreciated the many life lessons highlighted by the author. Winfrey shows the benefits of saying yes to life (even the scary parts), the importance of setting boundaries, and she reminds us all that there is no time limit on our dreams. Do you remember who you wanted to be? Check it out.

Note: Audiobook narrated by the talented Patti Murin.

My favorite quote:
"Because that was what life was about, right? Trying new things. Discovering what you loved and hated. Exploring all of your major and minor passions. Maybe she wouldn't ever find one big thing that lit her up, maybe it was enough to discover a million little things that made life worth living."

...and also this one, because this describes my perfect evening
“So what you’re going to do is go get in your jammies,” Eleanor said in her teacher voice, taking charge. “And we're going to watch an Alfred Hitchcock movie that will make you think , 'Well, at least I'm not mixed up in THAT situation,’ while you drink a cup of sleepytime tea. And then we’re going to tuck you and you’re going to go to sleep."
Profile Image for Jessica.
Author 1 book191 followers
September 1, 2021
Thank you to Berkley for gifting me a review copy of Very Sincerely Yours by Kerry Winfrey.

I’ve really enjoyed this author’s previous books but this one is by far my favorite. In fact, it’s likely going to make my top ten for the year. I just loved it so much. It was like a warm hug in book form, if a warm hug also made you laugh…and cry…and want to watch children’s TV. Ok, maybe not that last part.

30-year-old Teddy (Theodora) Phillips is feeling a little directionless, and under a lot of pressure to ‘pick a career’. To make matters worse, she thinks her long-time boyfriend, Richard, is about to propose but instead he dumps her. The one thing that helps her escape and feel at peace is watching Everett’s Place, a local children’s TV show. It doesn’t hurt that the host, Everette St. James is very easy on the eyes.

In a moment of ‘why the heck not’ Teddy writes to Everette on the show to ask him a question. Sure, it’s usually kids writing in to the show, but Everette has some really great advice for Teddy, and they start emailing back and forth. Through their exchanges, they get to know each other on quite a deep level, all while never having actually met….or at least that’s what Everette thinks.

This book is sweet, and hilarious, and will probably make you cry and snort-laugh in equal measures. Teddy and Everette are amazing, and the supporting cast of characters are simply brilliant as well. Frankly, I’m jealous of anyone who gets to read this for the first time. It’s making my list of favorite books of 2021 for sure.
Profile Image for Carol (Reading Ladies).
924 reviews196 followers
June 11, 2021
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkelyWritesStrongWomen #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary eARC of #VerySincerelyYours upon my request. All opinions are my own.

You’ve Got Mail meets irresistible Mr. Rogers…

A new release from the author of Waiting For Tom Hanks, Kerry Winfrey. Thirty-something Teddy Phillips works at a vintage toy store. She has just been unexpectedly dumped by her boyfriend and her guilty pleasures are Taco Bell takeout, Bath and Body Works pumpkin pecan waffle scented candles, couch pillows, and watching a children’s (muppet) TV show hosted by Everett St. James, a hot and irresistible Mr. Rogers. Everett often reads letters from children who write to him with questions, so one day Teddy decides to email Everett with her own questions. Everett is charmed by her emails and Teddy appreciates his sensible and wise advice. They develop a lovely online friendship, and Everett suggests they meet. Before they can arrange it, their worlds accidentally collide (meet-cute gone wrong). Of course only one of them knows the truth. As this story is inspired by You’ve Got Mail, we can predict that their identities will be fully revealed and then they will need to navigate a new IRL relationship.

Of course, Very Sincerely Yours is extremely predictable because it’s inspired by a well-known trope and in the romance genre. However, it’s also charming, light, easy reading with quirky characters, witty banter, closed-door romance, and minimal profanity. Perfect chick-lit for a reader looking for these elements. I loved the inclusion of the actual email correspondence and, for me, the epistolary format enhances the reading experience.

In this gentle story, there are thoughtful themes including finding your voice, finding and pursuing your passion or calling, supportive friendships, letting go of a toxic relationship, taking a chance, and taking a risk to do something scary every day, I love that Teddy and Everett have one significant difference: Teddy has yet to find her calling or passion while Everett has known he wanted to create puppets and help children through his stories since he was four years old.

Very Sincerely Yours is ideal for fans of light romcom, and for those who prefer closed-door romance and limited profanity. A solid and enjoyable beach, vacation, or weekend read. For me, it was more enjoyable than Waiting For Tom Hanks.

For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Profile Image for Lisa (Remarkablylisa).
2,518 reviews1,813 followers
June 23, 2021
A sweet romance but im taking off a star because the heroine being so weak in the beginning and middle made me so frustrated. How did she not know her ex was using her as a motherly figure and how did she not have enough of a backbone to talk back to her ex who insulted and manipulated her??? Also this was mr. Rogers fanfiction.
Profile Image for Mary.
2,249 reviews612 followers
June 17, 2021
Are you looking for the most adorable rom-com ever that has a bunch of pop culture references thrown in? Well then look no further than Very Sincerely Yours by Kerry Winfrey. This cutie is filled to the brim with pop culture and throws a lot of love at Mister Rogers' Neighborhood and the movie Mrs. Doubtfire in almost equal measure. The book is told from two points of view, Teddy our vintage toy store worker who literally gets dumped the night she thinks she is going to get proposed to, and Everett St. James our puppeteer extraordinaire, and our Mister Rogers/Mrs. Doubtfire rolled into one. It's hard to really express how many things I enjoyed about this one, but I do have to say that I think it might be the most adorable book I have ever read. The characters are all created in a way you either love them or hate them, and I found so many of them endearing and funny.

I would say the only downfall is that I have not read the author's two previous novels yet, and I think I missed out on a couple of Easter eggs/cameos. But I was NOT lost so don't think that - this is a great standalone novel and it made me really excited to get to Winfrey's backlist which of course I already own. It is also important to note that the audiobook for Very Sincerely Yours is terrific and narrated solely by the amazing Patti Murin. For some reason, I can't read a full book with my eyes for the life of me these days, and I was very happy I used a credit and switched to the audiobook. This is a super quick read though and would definitely make the perfect book to bring with you to the beach. It is witty and humorous, while also touching on some grief. I was hoping to laugh a bit more, but overall this was an incredibly sweet rom-com and I think it has officially propelled me to stop procrastinating and get to Winfrey's backlist.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Kari Ann Sweeney.
1,367 reviews368 followers
May 17, 2021
PUB DATE: 6.15 (Thank you to @berkleyromance and @netgalley for the free early copy) ⁣ Although I’d already pre-ordered a finished copy from @bookshelftville back in Feb. ⁣

I’m a big fan of Kerry Winfrey and her books. Whenever I start one of her books, I know there will be a charming story, delightful Pop Culture references, witty dialogue and a sweet romance. Oh- and there is always a passage that catches me off guard and leaves me in stitches. ⁣

I’m always just happy when I’m reading one of her books. They make me feel like I do when I put on my favorite comfy pants and press ‘play’ on my favorite rom-com.

What you should know about 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐘 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐒. My biggest takeaway is that it’s a love letter to those of us who are still figuring out who we want to be when we grow up (raises hand). It’s like Kerry left a bit of her heart on the page and it came through in the writing and the overall reading experience. ⁣

𝐏𝐋𝐔𝐒: ⁣
- It’s a 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘎𝘰𝘵 𝘔𝘢𝘪𝘭 meets 𝘔𝘳. 𝘙𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴 rom-com. ⁣
- It has the most timeless character names. Everett St. James and Teddy Phillips. ⁣
- The supporting characters are precocious and endearing. They are also the best kind of instigators. ⁣
- A slow-burn that is light on the steam.⁣
- Fresh & unique . He’s a local children's show puppeteer and she works at a vintage toy store. ⁣
- If you’re looking for something to get you out of a reading slump- pick this up! ⁣
Profile Image for Janssen.
1,847 reviews7,610 followers
Read
April 18, 2022
This was much better than Waiting for Tom Hanks, which made me want to tear my hair out.
Profile Image for Sarah | Kerosene.Lit.
1,138 reviews653 followers
January 13, 2023
Well, this was an absolute bundle of cuteness! Newly single after a relationship that grossly dictated her life, Teddy is ready to step out of her comfort zone. The first thing she does? Emails the host of Everett's Place, a televised program for children, baring her heart and seeking advice.

I adored this epistolary romance! Teddy and Everett stole my heart in their email exchanges. And even more so as they coincidentally cross paths in adorably awkward, smile-inducing ways.

I really connected with Teddy. She's very unsure of herself and her purpose in life / career. I think we've all been there at times. Everett was so supportive, giving Teddy a feeling of importance—something she really lacked in her previous relationship. I loved his gentle, nerdy personality, self-awareness, and his passion for puppetry. He was a unique guy!

This was such a joyful, lighthearted read, but it also had a heartwarming depth to its message. SO GLAD I finally picked this one up.

(heat level: closed door)
Profile Image for Eve.
778 reviews52 followers
October 14, 2024
Narrated by: Patti Murin
Length: 10 hrs and 6 mins

I've read so many dissapointing and boring romance books that I rarely read them these days. When I read synopsis of Very Sincerely Yours, I decided to give it a try...and I LOVED IT!

Teddi (29) and Everett (30) were likeable and relatable characters who were fun to watch. I especially liked the story of Teddi finding herself after years of accepting poor treatment from her ex Richard. I cheered with her every time she managed to face things that scared her. Relationship between sisters, parents, friends and co-workers were beautifully written and refreshing change to all those crazy family dramas.

This story reminded us that there’s no time limit on our dreams. Even when your dreams change, this may be also a good thing. Worst you can do is sit back and do nothing...

description

A warm and adorable story with likeable characters and memorable scenes to read during cold autumn evening.

“I know your work matters. No one's suggesting that it doesn't. But the people who love you matter, too. And if you keep blowing everyone off to give one hundred percent of yourself to work, someday you're gonna wake up and no one will be there anymore.”


“This isn’t a sob story, sweetie. That’s just what life is. Even if you’re happy with the path you went down, part of you always wonders what was on that other road you passed a few miles back. That doesn’t mean it’s some grand tragedy. But it’s a loss all the same.”
Profile Image for Rachel McMillan.
Author 26 books1,170 followers
April 4, 2021
An absolutely adorable You've Got Mail meets Rainbow Rowell's "Attachments" mash-up featuring the beguiling Teddy with all of her insecurities, a new "do things for me" bucketlist and a break-up bob and the charming and somewhat clueless Everett, a children's TV host a la Mister Rogers and just as kind.


This is a warm and whimsical over-sized cardigan of a novel that only breaks through its cinnamon-scented blend of cozy to weave a strong statement on the vulnerability of dreams and standing up for your own and the complexities of relationships that inspire you to be a side-kick to someone else's life.

And there are definitely shades of F-O-X and Shopgirl here: in the knowing and wonderful children's toyshop owner Josie, in Everett's precociously adorable bookworm sister, Gretel, and in the way that setting becomes a canvas for seasons where hope and small festivals over take neighbourhoods with a colour that only acts as a spotlight for this burgeoning love story.


This was an absolute delight of an epistolary-flared novel told with such poise and grace and aching heart I could tell the author loved writing it. Each ingredient is lovingly sprinkled like a pie that just fills up the entire house. A wonderful supporting cast and a treatise on purpose versus relationships balance out a delicious romantic comedy that is worth all of the hype its been getting.


Pick it up.
Profile Image for Elisa ♡.
702 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2021
very cute and very inspiring.

Teddy just got out of a relationship that she taught was perfect, but everyone in her life tells her that she was more of an assistant to him than a girlfriend.
the only thing that makes Teddy happy is to watch this kid's tv show, one day she decides to send a letter to the host and he answers it.

the romance was so cute, but Teddy's self-discovery journey was so inspiring.
i still think this book was too big (10 hours of audio!), but if you're feeling like reading a big book, try this one.
:)
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
June 17, 2021
The premise of Very Sincerely Yours by Kerry Winfrey, a new to me author, caught my eye and I decided to read it and I’m glad I did. I enjoyed this light romantic comedy that featured two 30 something individuals who didn’t quite have their lives worked out. The heroine is out of a long term relationship she didn’t see ending and has basically spent her life since college being her boyfriend’s personal assistant/maid/cook and she enjoyed doing those things until he decided he was done. The hero is a local television personality/puppeteer with a successful children’s program yet he has no life. I loved everything about their story; the way they met, their accidental first in person meeting, their crazy second in person meeting, the way they were comfortable with one another from the start, and even their missteps along the way. I loved this sweet, flirtatious, low angst romance.

Teddy Phillips life is at a turning point and it isn’t one she saw coming. Suddenly without a boyfriend and a place to live she’s rooming with her two best friends who she freely admits she hasn’t been the best friend to since her ex Rick (the d*ck) didn’t like them. While she enjoys her job working in a vintage toy store mainly because she adores the owner, Teddy knows she needs to find her passion and figure out what she wants out of life. With the help of her friends Eleanor and Kirsten she makes a “Teddy Time” list basically a to-do list of things they scare her. After a particularly bad evening she decides to email Everett of Everett’s Place a local kid’s show that soothes her and makes her happy and while she is terrified he’ll laugh or send back a message telling her to get a life, she has no clue that email will actually change her life forever.

Since he was 4 year old Everett St. James knew he wanted to be a puppeteer and a television host. Known on the internet Mom’s boards as the “sexy Mr. Rogers” he has quite the local following in Columbus and a pretty successful show. His family and friends constantly remind him that he needs work/life balance as he tends to obsess over the show often working 12-15 hour days, but he’s happy or at least he thinks he is happy until one email makes him realize perhaps this is something missing from his life.

I really loved these two together and while Teddy was a bit of a mess at the beginning it was wonderful watching her blossom into her own person, learning to stand up to those she loved that thought they knew what she needed to do with her life, and to embrace being with someone who wanted her for the person she is not for what she can do for them. Everett was a good man, but somewhere along the line work became his only focus so it was fun to watch him begin to realize how much the people who have known him for years have put up with him and for him to see how much being with the right person can make your life better. That’s not to say it was all smooth sailing between them, but with Everett’s keen communication skills and Teddy’s new found independence, they both are pretty good at saying exactly what they are feeling.

From the main characters to the secondary, they all drew me in with their unique personalities. Very Sincerely Yours was a heart-warming love story that I actually found hard to put down.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Jeeves Reads Romance.
1,683 reviews795 followers
June 15, 2021
I wish that I had enjoyed this more, because it's pretty adorable. Both lead characters are sweethearts, and their romance has the kind of meet cute that I LOVE. There's a lot of good stuff going on in the second half, but it had unfortunately already lost me at that point. Our heroine's complete and utter lack of self-esteem are a part of the storyline, but it actually stressed me out how little confidence she had in herself - she takes doormat to another level. Not exactly what I want from a low angst read. And the romance? Takes a long, LONG time to kick in. We're talking ZERO connection for about a third of the book - and that's before the emailing even starts. So, while there's a lot to like about this and the writing is strong in many ways, this just didn't work for me.

The story follows Teddy, a woman who feels like she's floundering. She's nearly thirty, working at a toy store, and still isn't quite sure what she wants to do with her life. When Teddy's longtime boyfriend breaks up with her, it's a wake up call. She needs to make some changes. One thing that brings Teddy a lot of comfort is Everett, who gives out great advice to kids on his Mister Rogers-style show. What starts as one email asking Everett for advice becomes a connection that Teddy never expected, and she finds herself gaining the confidence to live for herself. And when those emails take a turn for the romantic, Teddy discovers that Everett might be the answer to what's missing in her life.

On paper, this sounds like the perfect low angst rom com for me. I love a unique meet cute, and falling in love via letters or emails is seriously one of my favorite things in romance. I even love a slow burn and a cinnamon roll hero. This just... wasn't any of that. The romance is really lacking, and it almost felt like an afterthought in this journey of self-discovery. I liked Everett a lot more than I liked Teddy, because he at least has some confidence in himself - even if he is a little clueless at times, lol. But I wasn't ever able to connect to Teddy, and that's a major problem in a book where her journey is front and center. This just felt drawn out and a little tedious, only improving marginally once the romance kicked in. And that's a shame, because I liked the writing and many of themes that are explored.
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