Yours Truly Summary, Characters and Themes

In Abby Jimenez’s romance novel, “Yours Truly,” we meet Briana Ortiz, an emergency room doctor navigating the aftermath of her divorce and her brother’s desperate need for a kidney transplant. 

Briana’s world is turned upside down when the charismatic Dr. Jacob Maddox joins her ER team, seemingly vying for the same promotion she desires. Their initial interactions are fraught with tension and dislike, but as the story unfolds, Briana discovers that Jacob is not who he first appears to be. Beneath his anxious exterior lies a compassionate and caring man. “Yours Truly” brings together the lives of beloved characters from Jimenez’s previous novel, “Part of Your World,” with the return of Daniel and Alexis Grant. 

Summary

Dr. Briana Ortiz, an ER doctor at Royaume Northwestern Hospital, is grappling with personal and professional turmoil. Recently divorced and still nursing the wounds of her past, Briana’s biggest concern now is her brother Benny, who is in renal failure and desperately needs a kidney transplant.

At work, Briana’s focus is tested further by the arrival of Dr. Jacob Maddox, a new hire who appears to be her competition for a coveted promotion. Briana initially dislikes Jacob, perceiving him as awkward and aloof, and the hospital staff’s cold reception toward him only fuels her irritation.

However, Briana’s perspective shifts when she witnesses Jacob’s genuine kindness. She offers him advice on improving his relationship with the staff, and this sparks an unexpected exchange of handwritten letters between them. Through these letters, Briana learns about Jacob’s struggles with anxiety, and a deep, authentic connection begins to form.

As they grow closer through their letters and shared moments, Jacob learns about Benny’s need for a kidney and selflessly volunteers to get tested. When he turns out to be a match, he immediately agrees to the surgery, leaving Briana overwhelmed with gratitude.

To maintain appearances with his family—particularly around his ex-girlfriend Amy, who is now marrying his brother—Jacob asks Briana to pretend to be his girlfriend. Though Jacob admits he still has lingering feelings for Amy, Briana agrees to support him, helping him navigate the emotionally charged situation.

Their connection deepens, but misunderstandings threaten to unravel them. Briana overhears a conversation between Jacob and Amy and mistakenly believes Jacob is still in love with his ex. Despite Jacob confessing his love for Briana, her past hurts cause her to push him away.

Living together to continue the charade for Jacob’s family only complicates matters. During his brother’s bachelor party, a jealous Jacob misinterprets Briana’s interaction with another man, leading to a panic attack. Briana comforts him, and they share an intimate moment, but fear and regret push Briana to distance herself once again.

Later, Amy reveals to Briana that Jacob is, in fact, in love with her. Realizing the truth, Briana goes to Jacob’s house to end things for good, but Jacob confesses his love again, and they finally acknowledge their feelings for each other.

At Amy and Jeremiah’s wedding, Briana sees her ex-husband with his new, pregnant wife, triggering memories of her own miscarriage and causing her to withdraw from Jacob once more.

Before Jacob undergoes kidney surgery for Benny, he gives Briana his journals, where he has documented the depth of his love and his journey of falling for her. Moved by his unwavering devotion, Briana chooses to stay.

Two years later, Briana and Jacob are married, and they welcome a daughter named Ava, finding love, healing, and a family together despite the trials they had to overcome.

Characters

Briana Ortiz

Briana is a dedicated emergency room doctor, grappling with the emotional aftermath of her divorce and the stress of her brother’s illness. 

She is initially portrayed as guarded and cynical, particularly towards Jacob Maddox, the new doctor at her hospital. 

However, as the story progresses, Briana reveals a compassionate and resilient nature. Her wit and sarcasm often mask her vulnerability, but her deep love for her family and her growing affection for Jacob ultimately break down her emotional barriers. 

Briana’s journey is one of healing and self-discovery, as she learns to trust again and embrace the possibility of a new love.

Jacob Maddox

Jacob is a talented doctor who struggles with social anxiety, making it difficult for him to connect with others. 

Despite his initial awkwardness and mishaps, Jacob is genuinely kind and caring, as evidenced by his willingness to donate a kidney to Briana’s brother. 

He is a romantic at heart, expressing his feelings for Briana through heartfelt letters and thoughtful gestures. 

Jacob’s anxiety often hinders his confidence, but his unwavering devotion to Briana and his determination to overcome his fears make him a compelling and endearing character.

Benny Ortiz

Benny is Briana’s brother and a central figure in the story due to his battle with renal failure. He is portrayed as kind, optimistic, and deeply grateful for his sister’s unwavering support. 

Benny’s illness serves as a catalyst for the relationship between Briana and Jacob, as it highlights their compassion and strengthens their bond. 

Despite his health challenges, Benny remains hopeful and serves as a reminder of the importance of family and resilience.

Amy Harris

Amy is Jacob’s ex-girlfriend and a complex character who plays a significant role in the story’s conflicts. 

She is initially portrayed as understanding and supportive of Jacob’s anxiety, but her actions and words often reveal a manipulative and self-centered nature. 

Amy’s doubts about Jacob’s ability to move on and her unexpected pregnancy create tension in the relationship between Jacob and Briana. 

However, her character also undergoes a transformation, as she eventually recognizes Jacob’s love for Briana and offers her own form of closure.

Daniel and Alexis Grant

Daniel and Alexis are recurring characters from Jimenez’s previous novel, “Part of Your World.” 

They provide a sense of familiarity and continuity for readers who have followed their story. Their presence in “Yours Truly” offers a glimpse into their happy marriage and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love.

Additionally, their interactions with Briana and Jacob provide comedic relief and offer valuable insights into the complexities of relationships.

Themes

Overcoming Misunderstandings and Past Traumas

The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the importance of communication and understanding. Briana and Jacob’s initial animosity stems from misunderstandings and preconceived notions. 

However, through their heartfelt letters and honest conversations, they break down these barriers and discover the true nature of each other’s hearts. Moreover, the novel explores the lasting impact of past traumas on their lives. 

Briana’s fear of abandonment, fueled by her ex-husband’s infidelity and a previous miscarriage, creates obstacles in her relationship with Jacob. Similarly, Jacob’s anxiety disorder, rooted in past experiences, hinders his ability to fully express his feelings. 

It is through their willingness to confront these traumas and communicate openly that they find healing and forge a deeper connection.

The Power of Kindness and Empathy

Kindness and empathy are central themes throughout the novel. 

Briana’s initial dislike of Jacob transforms into admiration and affection as she witnesses his genuine care for others. 

Jacob’s selfless act of donating a kidney to Briana’s brother exemplifies his compassionate nature. 

Furthermore, Briana’s understanding and support of Jacob’s anxiety disorder demonstrate the transformative power of empathy. 

The novel emphasizes that even small acts of kindness, such as Briana’s offer of cupcakes or her code word for Jacob’s anxiety, can have a profound impact on someone’s life. 

Through these acts of kindness and empathy, Briana and Jacob foster a relationship built on trust, understanding, and mutual support.

The Importance of Family and Found Family

The novel emphasizes the significance of family, both biological and chosen. 

Briana’s close relationship with her brother, Benny, is a driving force in her life, and his illness motivates her actions. 

The bond between Jacob and his siblings, despite their differing personalities, highlights the complexities and love within families. Additionally, the concept of found family is explored through the growing relationships between Briana and Jacob’s families. 

Although they come from different backgrounds, they embrace each other and offer support, creating a sense of belonging and acceptance. 

The novel suggests that family is not solely defined by blood ties, but also by the love, support, and understanding shared between individuals.

Finding Love in Unexpected Places

“Yours Truly” is a heartfelt testament to the unexpected nature of love and the ways it can transform even the most unlikely relationships. Briana and Jacob, with their initial animosity and contrasting personalities, seem destined to clash rather than connect. Yet, through shared challenges, moments of vulnerability, and genuine kindness, they discover a love that is both profound and enduring.

The novel reminds readers that love often blossoms where it is least expected, challenging preconceived notions and societal expectations about compatibility, timing, and worthiness. Briana’s guarded heart, shaped by past betrayals and personal grief, meets Jacob’s gentle resilience, and together they learn to navigate the complexities of trust, healing, and emotional intimacy.

At its core, the story encourages readers to remain open to love’s possibilities, even when initial encounters are marked by misunderstanding or differences. It underscores the idea that meaningful connections often require patience, empathy, and courage to confront one’s fears, and that true love is not about perfection but about growing together through imperfections.

Through Briana and Jacob’s journey, “Yours Truly” beautifully illustrates that love, in all its unexpectedness, has the power to heal old wounds and build new, hopeful beginnings.