Review of Tamera Kraft's Debut Release "Soldier's Heart" by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Soldier's Heart by Tamera Lynn Kraft

Blurb: Noah Andrews, a soldier with the Ohio Seventh Regiment can’t wait to get home now that his three year enlistment is coming to an end. He plans to start a new life with his young wife. Molly was only sixteen when she married her hero husband. She prayed every day for him to return home safe and take over the burden of running a farm. 
But they can’t keep the war from following Noah home. Can they build a life together when his soldier’s heart comes between them? 
150 years ago the history of America changed forever. Live 1863 through the stories of some of our finest writers – the passion, the romance, the tragedy, and the triumph.

My review: Parents should be aware that this would be more of a PG rating or even a PG-13 dependent upon how conservative a parent you are.  However, that being said, this is a realistic look at how Post Traumatic Stress disorder can affect someone.  In this case, Tamera Lynn Kraft is addressing specifically "Soldier's Heart" or PTSD caused by military service and surviving terrible combat situations. This is a historical not a historical romance as Noah and Molly were married when she was only 16 and he 20.  Now three years later, he has finished his commission as Sargent  and returned home to Ohio.  

The young couple tries to begin their lives together while he is overcoming the terror brought on by losing his men in an ambush. This is a fairly quick read--I read it in one night.  But it is not a light read. This is a 25,000 word novella but the reader can quickly lose herself in the read--like I did!

Scriptural elements are brought in about a quarter of the way into the story and I think that was a good strategy because we are at first immersed into Noah's reaction to being home from war. And his spiritual arc requires him recapturing, and growing in, his faith.

Lots of nice historical details or "jewels" we history geeks like to say! You'll be nicely grounded into Noah's and Molly's world in Civil War era Ohio.  

Bibliotherapy: This story could be used for bibliotherapy for family members of soldiers who've seen combat duty or for the military members themselves.  This is one of the most thorough coverages I've seen in fiction.

Giveaway: Kindle copy of Tammy's novella to one of our commenters.  Do you have a loved one who has seen combat?

SWEET CHILD OF MINE by Murray and Micaela Pura reviewed by Marian Baay

Cry of Freedom – Volume 11

SWEET CHILD OF MINE

By Murray & Micaela Pura

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

1863

Kitt is the almost eleven years old daughter of Jack Burns – a Canadian widower who is enlisting in the Union army to fight in the American Civil War. Kitt doesn’t really understand why her father is going to fight, but she trusts that God will bring her father home again after the war.

Jack frequently receives mail from his sweet child, Kitt. She sends him letters and beautiful poems, and adds some little things from home in the envelopes, like seagull feathers, or dried flowers. The letters are being read by all the men and boost the morale of the whole regiment. Soon Kitt is dubbed their mascot and known as ‘Sweet Child of Mine’ – as Jack often calls her.

Kitt understands that not everyone can survive the war, but she pleads with God to save her pappy and the men in his regiment. This young girl has a lot of faith that runs deep. Will her pappy return home to her after the war?

I really enjoyed this beautiful tale, and the poems throughout the story were a lovely treat. The characters were easy to love and difficult to say good-bye to.

Nicely done, Micaela and Murray! Dad must be so proud of his talented daughter!

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You can buy this story at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: Murray is giving away 6 pdf copies of this wonderful story. You can EARN 5 EXTRA ENTRIES if you promise to post a review on Amazon and GoodReads after you have read the story—let us know in your comment if you will post a review if you win. 
Of course you can also enter if you don't want to write a review.

And please don't forget to leave your email address!

A GETTYSBURG VIGNETTE by Patrick E. Craig reviewed by Marian Baay

A Gettysburg Vignette

Cry of Freedom – Volume 9

A GETTYSBURG VIGNETTE

By Patrick E. Craig

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

1863 – Jack Skelly, a wounded Union soldier, wrote a letter to his sweetheart Ginnie Wade. When he was wounded in June, he gave the letter to his friend Wesley Culp—a soldier from the South. Jack made Wesley swear to deliver the letter to Ginnie in Gettysburg. Wesley took the letter with him and was sincerely hoping to deliver it to Ginnie when the battle of Gettysburg was over . . . only Wesley did not survive the battle, neither did Ginnie.

2013 – Randy Culpepper is on his way to the 150^th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. He is the great–great grandson of Wesley’s friend Jed Culpepper. He knows all about the Battle of Gettysburg from his grandfather—who told him everything there is to know on this historical event when he was growing up. He had heard of the letter Wesley Culp was supposed to deliver to Ginnie, but the letter got lost.

When Randy arrives in Gettysburg, he has a weird experience that could make him able to solve the mystery of the missing letter.

A story full historical detail – that brings the characters from the past to life – an unexpected twist and smart plot make this an enjoyable read.

Another great story in the Cry of Freedom series!

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You can buy this novella at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: FIVE pdf copies of this book. 
Like Patrick's author page on facebook and put PEC in a comment underneath my review to enter the contest. 
Don't forget to leave your email address as well.

Marian Baay reviews SAFE HOUSE by Kathi Macias

Safe House

Cry of Feedom – Volume 8

SAFE HOUSE

By Kathi Macias

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

In Safe House, Kathi Macias pens a compelling tale about eleven year old Nathaniel who is faced with an unexpected complication to his daydreaming. When reality calls and lives are at stake, he must make an important decision.

It is the summer of 1863. With his pa off fighting in the war, Nathaniel prepares himself for the first summer break without his father. He wonders when he will see him again. His pa and grandpa are abolitionists, but his ma believes it is wrong to break the law by helping to deprive others of their rightful property. He has not yet decided what to think of it himself.

Then Nathaniel discovers a secret which he cannot tell anyone, but it seems like his grandpa already knows…

When danger comes to their town at night, he must grow up fast and take responsibility. Other people’s lives are in his hands. Will he do what is right?

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You can buy this novella at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: Kathi will give away a copy of this story. 

TO ENTER: Like Kathi Macias' author page on facebook and leave a comment here on the blog - make sure to put KM in your comment when you have liked Kathi's page. Don't forget to leave your email address as well.

Marian Baay reviews SHELTERING ARMS by Joette Baldwin

Sheltering Arms

Cry of Freedom – Volume 7

SHELTERING ARMS

By Joette Baldwin

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

This is the story of Renée Chastain Harris, a woman who lived at Rose Hill Plantation, Virginia during the Civil War. The year 1863 was going to be a difficult year for Renée with her husband and son away fighting in the war.

People who know me will attest to the fact that I’m not easily impressed. But Joette Baldwin did it!—she impressed me with her rich descriptions that spoke to my imagination. After I finished this story I felt like I had been back in time and met the people at Rose Hill. I had cheered for Renée in her glorious years and wept with her in her moments of sorrow.

I think Joette gave us a good look at how life for ordinary people could have been during the Civil War. Well done, Joette!

GIVEAWAY: Joette is giving away a PDF copy of her wonderful story to one lucky commenter who leaves a comment and email address.

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You can buy this novella at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

Marian Baay reviews GETTYSBURG'S CHOSEN SONS by Sarah Price

Gettysburg's Chosen Sons

Cry of Freedom – Volume 6

GETTYSBURG’S CHOSEN SONS

By Sarah Price

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

~5 stars~*****

Two Amish brothers wanting to fight in the war – but only one can go. Two Bibles – but only one with a white piece of paper in it. The brother who chooses the Bible with the piece of paper shall go to war.

Thomas is the one with the piece of paper in his Bible. He’s the younger of the two brothers. At eighteen, he is not only leaving his family but also his girlfriend. He makes his older brother promise to take care of her and – if he does not return – to marry her.

The next morning, Abram must tell Father that Thomas left to fight in the war. Shortly thereafter he must also tell the same news to Betsy—Thomas’ girlfriend.

The days that follow are filled with hope to hear something from Thomas, but no word comes. Then finally Abram decides to go to Gettysburg—where the battle took place—and bring Thomas home.

Will Abram find his brother? Or is he bound by his promise to marry Betsy?

A well-written, moving story that brought tears to my eyes. My only complaint is that it was so short—but although it was short it was still a satisfying read!

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You can buy this story at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: A Kindle copy of this story to one lucky commenter. Leave a comment and your email address to enter.

CHRISTMAS UNION by Karen Anna Vogel Reviewed by Marian Baay

Christmas Union

Cry of Freedom – Volume 5

CHRISTMAS UNION

By Karen Anna Vogel

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

Rebecca Mendenhall is the 18 year old daughter of abolitionist parents. Their house is a safe house for runaway slaves. But Rebecca is unaware of it until her father tells her about the establishment of the new Fugitive Slave Law. That law says that all runaway slaves, in the area where Rebecca lives, must be returned to the South. Her dear black friend, Eliza, is no longer safe at their home. They have grown up together since they were ten years old and made a covenant that they would never part from each other. Now Rebecca must bring Eliza, and an older runaway slave, to another safe house.

Rebecca finds out that she already has been working for the abolitionists for some time, because she wrote many letters for her father in a code language, but she wasn’t aware of it.

In the new safe house, run by three sisters dedicated to the cause, Rebecca learns more about the code language and about the dangers for the runaway slaves and the people who help them.

When Rebecca left her hometown she also left behind her fiancé, Johnny. His father is against abolitionism and doesn’t want Johnny to marry Rebecca. Johnny can’t believe Rebecca is an abolitionist, but he soon will find out otherwise. Johnny has to search his heart whose side he takes.

Danger is getting closer... When Rebecca is helping some runaway slaves to another safe house, they are being tracked by dogs. Will they escape?

What choice will Johnny make? Can Rebecca and Eliza stay together?

This is the fifth story in the Cry of Freedom Series. I found this a nicely written and interesting novella. The author has a lovely way with words and knows how to draw the reader in. 

All stories in this series are enjoyable and I recommend them all.

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GIVEAWAY: Karen has graciously offered to give away three ebooks of Christmas Union. Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the contest.

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You can buy this novella at Amazon.

And you can also find the other stories in the Cry of Freedom Series at Amazon.

The Last Waltz by Murray Pura Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

The Last Waltz

Cry of Freedom – Volume 2

THE LAST WALTZ

By Murray Pura

HelpingHands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow
5 stars~*****

The Civil War years were a brutal and bloody era in the chronicles of history. A period of horrendous suffering and deadly conflict that witnessed over 600,000 soldiers lose limb and life. During this turbulent time however, the sun still shone and the rays of God’s grace and love could be found in the pockets of people’s lives all over the tormented land. Murray Pura creates a fictional yet immensely stirring novella about a Confederate officer and his wife as one of those beautiful and touching accounts.

Charity Davis was going through the motions of an ordinary day of housework when in the distance she spied clouds of dust that was expanding as it was advancing. Realizing that this dust might clear to reveal troops which could include her husband Major Mitchell Davis, she makes her way toward the main road with hope alighting in her heart. Hours later she had almost given up when a couple of Officers brought her wounded husband to her side for a day of convalescing.

Mitchell Davis has been granted a gift from God. Because it can surely only be a miracle, that in the middle of the war an army officer gets to spend a day with his beautiful wife. And Mitchell intends to make the most of every single moment. This gallant and charming officer declares to his Southern belle that this is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Charity and Mitchell live every part of this day in a breathtakingly romantic style including dressing in their best clothes and waltzing the night away.

There were several moments during this extraordinary day that Charity strongly felt the presence of someone but each time she’d turned around they had vanished. What could be happening on this perfect day of theirs and what might this mean for the devoted couple? As dawn approaches, will Mitch have the strength to say farewell to his bride and return to his regiment? They lived a lifetime in a day but will this day have to last a lifetime?

Murray Pura writes historical romance with flair and a charm that draws you into the hearts and lives of his characters. The Last Waltz was a riveting story and I found myself inspired by Mitchell and Charity’s faith, enamored with the romance, and stunned by the drama! This is a story that kept me reading from start to finish without a pause and one that I know has fastened itself upon me for a long time to come.

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GIVEAWAYS: 

Murray has graciously offered to give away NINE sets of lovely 4x6 glossy bookmark postcards of his Harvest House book covers—one autographed card per set. On every review this week we will draw 3 winners, so make sure you comment on all reviews this week!

And OWG is offering a copy of WHISPERS OF A NEW DAWN! If you have posted any reviews on Murray’s books let us know which ones and you will get an extra entry for each one posted!

* Extra GIVEAWAY today: Noela has graciously offered a Kindle copy of The Last Waltz to one lucky commenter!  
ANSWER THE QUESTION to be entered for a chance to win:
If you could have a romantic date with your beloved where money was no object, what would you love to do?

Noela Nancarrow Reviews Bachelor Buttons By Kathleen L. Maher

Bachelor Buttons

Cry of Freedom –Volume 3

Bachelor Buttons by Kathleen L. Maher

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~ 5 stars*****

This is a gripping story that takes place during the Civil War in 1863 in Manhattan, New York, and is teeming with fascinating history while still managing to sweep you off your feet with an inspiring and stirring romance!

Rose Meehan the daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, lives a tough and poverty-stricken life in the tenements of New York City with her sister Katherine and younger brother Thomas. Rose has won the affection of two men—Dr. Ian McGuiness with whom she was fond of and who represented material wealth for her future, and William Lee, a struggling violin teacher who happened to make her heart beat a little faster than the doctor. With both of them turning up on the same evening to take her out, she comes up with the idea of setting a footrace to settle the dilemma. The challenge took place up the street and back again but with the course being filled with all manner of obstacles, it creates a very entertaining race! Which suitor will win the race and be taken out on the arm of the lovely Rose?

Just days later, President Lincoln signs an Enrollment Act drafting eligible men with exceptions given to those married with children and those who could pay a large fee for a substitute. However, the immigrant Irish people were too poor to buy their way out and were angry that they were being drafted instead of the rich. They were also incensed at the unfairness that the black freedmen were exempt because they weren’t considered citizens. The murmurings and anger at the injustices against the immigrants that had been simmering then begins to boil over, with Manhattan exploding in devastating riots, out of control fires and murders. One of Rose’s suitors becomes a hero in her eyes delivering help and provision just when needed. God’s plan for Rose and those she loves is eventually revealed to all.

Kathleen Maher writes her wonderfully polished debut novella Bachelor Buttons with flair and such exquisite writing that I’m prompted to buy anything published by Kathleen in the future sight unseen! Kathleen is a brilliant story-teller that definitely knows how to write suspense and drama so well that your eyes fly over the page, right along with a sweet romance that is both believable and beautiful.

This book may be purchased through Amazon.

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GIVEAWAY: Noela has graciously offered A Kindle copy of Bachelor Buttons to one lucky commenter!

QUESTION: What challenge might you put to two suitors if you had affections for them both?

Bachelor Buttons by Kathleen L Maher Reviewed by Marian Baay

Bachelor Buttons

Cry of Freedom – Volume 3

BACHELOR BUTTONS

By Kathleen L Maher

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

Kathleen Maher writes a sweet story about a violin teacher named William Lee who is trying to win the hand of the pretty Miss Rose. There is another man—Dr. Ian McGuiness—who is also hoping to court Miss Rose.

On Saturday, July 11 1863, Dr. McGuiness calls on Miss Rose to ask her out. Shortly thereafter William also arrives at her doorstep with an invitation to take her out. Rose respects both men; the doctor would make a good catch because of his money—she won’t lack for anything if she is to marry him, but William makes her heart beat faster. With both men on her doorstep she must choose one of them, but she decides to let the men run a race. The winner shall take her out that night.

Something happens that causes William to get into trouble and Miss Rose’s father forbids his daughter to see William again. Will William keep his distance? And what about Dr. McGuiness—is he the one who will steal her heart now? Then a family member gets sick and important choices must be made. Can Dr. McGuiness heal the sick? And is there anything William can do to help?

Bachelor Buttons is a lovely story about regular people’s lives during the Civil War. Kathleen Maher has a fresh and pleasant writing style which makes this story an enjoyable read.

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GIVEAWAY: Kathleen is giving away a PDF copy of Bachelor Buttons to one commenter. All we're asking is that you post a review on Amazon if you liked the story.

HOW TO ENTER: Leave a comment and your email (if we don't know you) to be entered in the contest.

Teresa Mathews Reviews Murray Pura's The Last Waltz

Cry of Freedom – Volume 2

THE LAST WALTZ

By Murray Pura

HelpingHands Press, 2013

5 STARS*****

Reviewed by Teresa Mathews

A Love Story That Transcends The Horrors of War

Murray Pura has a special talent for creating a romantic story so beautiful it will bring tears to your eyes and this story set during the civil war is no exception.

Charity Davis has been single-handedly taking care of the family farm since her husband Mitchell and their two sons joined the war. The morning Charity sees the Confederate Soldiers marching by her house she runs to the road to ask about her husband. After two hours of inquiring she gives up and starts back for the house. Halfway home, hearing her name being called, Charity turns and sees her husband. Mitchell is astride his horse but he is being supported by two soldiers. Charity is told he has been wounded and they are going to allow him to spend the night at home.

When Mitchell was shot and pretty much given up to die, he does as King Hezekiah did, he prays for God to extend his life. He doesn't ask for the fifteen years like Hezekiah but for just one more day with his beautiful wife he hasn't seen in two years. When he hears there is a unit headed to Chickamauga, Georgia, he asks to be allowed to go with them because he knows they will be passing his home.

Mr. Pura's description of the day that Charity and Mitchell shared is so deeply moving you will not want to see it come to a close. The love they share can only be described as ethereal, truly a love ordained by God.  Only an author that personally knows the true source of love could write such an enthralling story. Thank you Mr. Pura for sharing this story that despite being short on words is definitely long on heartwarming emotions. 

You can find this novella and all the other wonderful books Mr. Pura has written at Amazon

Marian Baay Reviews Carrie Fancett Pagels' Novella Return To Shirley Plantation

Return to Shirley Plantation

Cry of Freedom – Volume 1

RETURN TO SHIRLEY PLANTATION

By Carrie Fancett Pagels

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Marian Baay

5 stars~*****

Carrie Fancett Pagels has written a wonderful historical romance set during the Civil War. This story takes place at Shirley Plantation in Charles City, Virginia. I have heard great things about Shirley Plantation and reading this novella was like I was finally arriving there and getting to see it with my own eyes.

I think the author nicely described the layout of the plantation—clearly she must have been there, and while walking the grounds of Shirley Plantation she must have fantasized about the stories that could have taken place there.

I loved reading about Angelina and Matthew—how they met at Shirley Plantation and how the first sparks of chemistry filled the air. But this is not only a love story—it is war and there are secrets and a mystery to unravel.

This novella was a great historical read that gave me a glimpse into the world from long ago. I’d like to applaud the author with this beautifully written story with endearing characters, rich historical detail, and a good Christian message. Well done, Carrie!

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GIVEAWAY: We've been celebrating Carrie's debut all month long. Leave a comment for a chance to win a pink party basket! A summertime hot pink cup for you and a friend, a basket, cards, sunglasses pouches and more! LIKE Carrie's author page on Facebook  and put OWG over there on that page then come back here and put FB to enter! 

Diana Flowers Reviews The Last Waltz by Murray Pura

The Last Waltz

The Last Waltz by Murray Pura

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Diana Flowers

~5 stars*****

  

~Love is Stronger Than Death~

In Volume 2 of Murray Pura's Civil War series, The Last Waltz, Mr. Pura has written a poignant, bittersweet love story, set during the most horrific battle of our country's history—the Civil War.

Major Mitchell Davis, while suffering from a serious bullet wound to the chest, asks a special request of the Lord and is granted a reprieve...he lives. While his regiment is on their way to fight another battle in Chickamauga, Georgia, he is able to spend one glorious day and night with the wife of his youth. It is a day replete with love and laughter—a temporary respite from the horrific memories of war—and a night filled with dancing, tender romance, and bathing in the moonlight. Charity watches him leave for battle with mounting sorrow in her heart and wonders...will her beloved Mitchell return once again to her awaiting arms?...or become another casualty of this bitter war?

Reading this literary gem of a story with Murray Pura's poetic voice throughout was nothing short of pure spiritual beauty. My heart soared with the lovely scriptures and a love that was stronger than death; as described in the Song of Solomon and demonstrated by our hero/heroine. But nothing about this war was pretty, and as stark reality set in—I wept. My emotions were all over the page and I got totally lost in the moment—which is a sign of a truly talented author, and Mr. Pura—that you are, sir.

You can get this story for only $0.99 at Amazon.

Review of Carrie Fancett Pagels' debut novella Return to Shirley Plantation by Noela Nancarrow

Return to Shirley Plantation

Return to Shirley Plantation

Cry of Freedom – Volume 1

By Carrie Fancett Pagels

Helping Hands Press, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 stars~*****

A Tale of Tragedy and Triumph

It is 1862 and the Civil war is raging. The Carter family and others at Shirley Plantation in Virginia are already fearful knowing the armies are moving in their direction. It is a time of great unrest and angst with reports reaching them of numerous fierce battles and a voluminous number of deaths. The troubling knowledge that loved ones are fighting in this brutal conflict and may never come home is an added cause of distress for this family.

Angelina Rose, a seamstress who was a former slave and is one-eighth African, is staying at the Old House on the plantation with her sister’s orphaned children who were not yet freed. When one day she hears the sound of marching men and looks out the window, she is chilled to see the expansive lawns covered with hundreds of Union soldiers pitching tents and laying bedrolls. The army had taken over Shirley Plantation as a field hospital and the sounds of unearthly moans and groans of rows and rows of injured soldiers filled her ears.  What will all this mean to this beautiful young woman? Could she possibly get safe passage back with the Union soldiers for her and the children? And will she be safe in the meantime having to help take care of these soldiers?

Matthew Scott was the owner of the Theatrical Troupe in Ohio and was elated that his company had just been booked for the next three months, when he was effectively taken and conscripted by the Confederate army as he exited the building. He finds himself on the battlefield and experiencing what he could only describe as hell. He falls when wounded with the thundering noises of war reverberating around him as he passes out. Matthew is then found and taken by the Union army with other wounded to Shirley Plantation.

While Angelina tends to the needs and wounds of the soldier’s, Matthew and Angelina are drawn to one another. However, she is a woman with secrets and is masquerading as a widow in mourning and guarding closely the secret of her heritage. Will Matthew and the army be a means of freedom for her and the children? And will he understand when he discovers her deception?

Matthew, having been forced to fight for the Confederates, and with his father being a Copperhead, is still at risk along with Angelina. Can they ever find freedom and safety?

This is a fascinating and intricately woven story. It is hugely satisfying to see the pieces fit together with the mysteries and circumstances surrounding both Matthew and Angelina.

Return to Shirley Plantation is steeped in history and written with such authenticity, it truly is a step back in time to a place that is synonymous with much tragedy, but also one that represents many stories of faith, romance, hope and triumph in the face of the horrors of war. This story also conveys the pivotal message of listening to and obeying God.

As Carrie Fancett Pagels' debut novel, this is a commanding and brilliant story! Well done Carrie!

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GIVEAWAY: A Kindle copy of this novella for one commenter. Leave your email address if you'd like to be entered in the giveaway.